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T H O M A S D U N T O N SOLICITORS ESTABLISHED 1978
WELCOME
TO OUR
FEBRUARY ISSUE THE TEAM
Time to move on? Has the pandemic made you re-evaluate what you want from your home and where you want to live? Buying and selling a home is not as simple as it looks, so it’s important you choose the right solicitors. We are experts in making the process as straight-forward and stress-free as possible for you. We’re transparent in our pricing, efficient in our work, and always put our clients first.
EDITOR Faye Manning ••••• EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katie Miller ••••• SUB EDITOR Ben Jones ••••• FASHION EDITOR Lewis Casserley SALES Tim Lees ••••• ACCOUNTS Kathy Manning Andree Georgiou ••••• DIRECTORS Rory Smith Patrick Smith ••••• DESIGN & PRODUCTION Bob Ambrose
That’s why 93% of our clients would recommend us to friends and family. 217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ
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OUT & ABOUT – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M AG E : C H A RT W E L L
OUT & ABOUT
25 FEBRUARY MARTIN KEMP - BACK TO THE 80’S PARTY NIGHT Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp is heading to a venue near you for a Back to the 80s DJ set - it’s going to be absolute ‘Gold’! So, join us for a night of all things ‘80s that’s going to be too good to be ‘True’! It would be a ‘Pleasure’ to see you there. Bringing his ever popular 80’s Party Night, you can expect a night full of nostalgic 80’s tunes, big hairstyles and neon clothing! Casino Rooms, Rochester, Kent ME1 1PD
[EVENTS]
THE CALENDAR 19 FEBRUARY
FORT AMHERST GHOST HUNT Experience a night of ghost hunting at Fort Amherst, Chatham with Ghost Hunt Events. Participate in Séances, Vigils, Table tilting, Glass moving, Ouija boards, EVP Experiments, Automatic writing and much more. Chatham Kent ME4 4UB
8 FEBRUARY 2022
13 MARCH KAREN HAUER & GORKA MARQUEZ - FIREDANCE Hot pulsing beats, seductive choreography and passion that will take your breath away. With live Latin musicians and a dynamic dance ensemble, get ready for a stunning dance experience you strictly won’t want to miss. Featuring iconic songs including – In the Air Tonight, Sway, Bad Romance, Sweet Dreams, Relight My Fire, Bamboleo and more. FIREDANCE is back for 2022 and is the hottest ticket in town. Orchard Theatre, Dartford, Kent DA1 1ED
12 MARCH
26 MARCH ALICE IN WONDERLAND Let’s All Dance is back with shows this half term!!! Stunning dancing, much loved characters and super costumes bring the famous tale to life in this magical ballet production. Don’t be late for this very important date! Come and join Alice as she enters the curiouser and curiouser world of the White Rabbit, Queen of Hearts and Mad Hatter. Malthouse Theatre, Malthouse Road, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7JA
24 MARCH
CLUB ORIGAMI Dive into the magical world of Club Origami, an immersive and interactive dance show inviting family audiences to create, imagine and explore whole new ways of thinking, playing and moving. Dance, fashion and live music meet the magic of origami to sweep us up on a spirited and inspiring adventure in a land made purely of paper and play. Gulbenkian University of Kent Canterbury Kent CT2 7NB
TOYAH ‘UP CLOSE & PERSONAL’ This is a unique chance to experience Toyah up close and personal with a show that has a lively cinematic sound using Toyah’s vocals/ keyboards/ stand up bass and story telling, it will include Toyah performing her loved hit singles and classic songs, alongside recalling stories from her colourful, forty year career. Glassbox Theatre, Gillingham, Kent ME7 1FN
ALL YEAR CHARTWELL
9 MARCH SPRING AWAKENING WALK & AFTERNOON TEA AT FRASERS A two-hour guided walk followed by a delicious afternoon tea at Frasers, a stunning eco-farm estate in the Kent countryside. Engage your senses in mindful appreciation of the natural world, boosting awareness and relaxation. £55 per person, maximum 16 places per walk. Call 01233 756122 to book
Chartwell’s hillside gardens reflect his love of landscape and nature. They include the lakes he created, the kitchen garden and the Marycot, a playhouse designed for his youngest daughter Mary. Beyond the gardens there is expansive woodland with looped trails and natural play areas. Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS FEBRUARY 2022 9
27 MARCH MOUNT EPHRAIM GARDENS
15 MARCH
HEVER CASTLE & GARDENS - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS Romantic double-moated castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, set in 125 acres of formal and natural landscape. Topiary, Tudor herb garden, magnificent Italian garden with classical statuary, sculpture and fountains. 38 acre lake, yew and water mazes. Walled rose garden with over 4000 roses, 110 metre-long herbaceous border. Fine Daffodil displays in Mar and Tulip displays in Apr. Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG
Mount Ephraim is a privatelyowned family home set in 10 acres of terraced Edwardian gardens with stunning views over the Kent countryside. Highlights inc a Japanese rock and water garden, arboretum, unusual topiary and a spectacular grass maze plus many mature trees, shrubs and spring bulbs. Mount Ephraim Gardens, Faversham, Kent ME13 9TX
20 FEBRUARY FRITH OLD FARMHOUSE - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS A riot of plants growing together as if in the wild, developed over 40 years. No neat edges or formal beds, but several hundred interesting (and some very unusual) plants. Trees and shrubs chosen for year-round appeal. Special interest in bulbs and woodland plants. Visitor comments - ‘one of the best we have seen, natural and full of treasures’, a plethora of plants, inspirational, a hidden gem. Frith Old Farmhouse, Faversham, Kent ME13 0DD
ALL YEAR
23 MARCH
KENT WILDLIFE - CONNECTED IN TIME Journey through time to feel, experience and get to know Wildlife in Kent with this interactive family exhibition. Discover some of the amazing creatures that used to live on your doorstep, find out why they disappeared and how some will return again soon. Explore the exhibition and become more connected with your wildlife community, find out how wildlife can help your wellbeing. The Beaney, 18 High Street, Canterbury Kent CT1 2RA 10 FEBRUARY 2022
PETTS WOOD AND HAWKWOOD An oasis of peace and tranquillity only 13 miles southeast from the centre of London Full of natural history, the area is a haven for all kinds of bird, butterfly, amphibian and plant life. The Hawkwood Estate and the remainder of the woodland was donated in 1957, with the entire estate now covering 136 hectares or 338 acres. Chislehurst, Kent, BR5 1NZ
OUT & ABOUT
Churchill and the Crown Runs until 27 February 2022; 10am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm) Free exhibition included with normal admission.
I
n her Platinum Jubilee year, a new outdoor photography exhibition, ‘Churchill and the Crown’, which features a series of hand-selected archive photographs, will tell the story of the special relationship between The Queen and Sir Winston Churchill at his family home of Chartwell. In 2022 Her Majesty The Queen will become the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, having acceded to the throne in 1952 during Churchill’s second term as Prime Minister. The two had a close and genuine relationship, having first met when The Queen was just two years old.
Churchill became The Queen’s trusted advisor through the earliest years of her reign, and she meant a great deal to him. This enduring relationship is illustrated by the photograph of her on her Coronation Day, which Churchill hung on the wall of his study at Chartwell.
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Katherine Carter, Chartwell’s curator and lead creator of the new exhibition says: ‘The relationship between HM The Queen and her first Prime Minister was a longstanding one. From Churchill’s warm friendship with her parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, through to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation and the earliest years of her reign, these archive photographs encapsulate a truly remarkable friendship that changed the course of history.’ In a speech broadcast ahead of her coronation, Churchill referred to The Queen as ‘a Lady whom we respect because she is our Queen and whom we love because she is herself ’, showing just how fond he was of her. Years later, when asked which Prime Minister she enjoyed meeting with the most, The Queen replied, “Winston of course, because it was always such fun.” One of her household staff even remarked, “I could not hear what they talked about, but it was, more often than not, punctuated with peals of laughter, and Winston generally came out wiping his eyes.” Working with TopFoto, the reproduced photographs have been enlarged and displayed on the Terrace Lawn, situated just outside the house and overlooking the beautiful winter gardens and estate. Together, the images bring to life a genuine warmth and friendship which extended beyond that of monarch and advisor.
Image: TopFoto
‘A Lady whom we respect because she is our Queen and whom we love because she is herself’ THE DETAILS Chartwell www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell
OUT & ABOUT
Made From The Finest Ingredients “Treat yourself to a slice of five-star musical pie” (The Times) as Chelsea Halfpenny (9 to 5, BBC’s Casualty, ITV’s Emmerdale) stars in the hit musical comedy WAITRESS as Jenna, with Sandra Marvin (Waitress, ITV’s Emmerdale, Hairspray) playing Becky, Evelyn Hoskins (Waitress, Spring Awakening) as Dawn and Matt Willis (Busted, A Christmas Carol, Wicked) as Dr Pomatter.
M
eet Jenna, a waitress and expert piemaker who dreams of some happiness in her life. When a hot new doctor arrives in town, life gets complicated. With the support of her workmates Becky and Dawn, Jenna overcomes the challenges she faces and finds that laughter, love and friendship can provide the perfect recipe for happiness. Brought to life by a ground-breaking, female-led creative team, this ‘warm, witty, wise and hilarious’ (EXPRESS) hit features ‘one of the best scores in years’ (THE STAGE) by the Grammy award-winning
Sara Bareilles (Love Song, Brave) a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam) and direction by Tony® Award-winner Diane Paulus (Pippin, Finding Neverland). Having received standing ovations night after night in London’s West End and on Broadway, Waitress is ‘the real deal’ (INDEPENDENT) musical comedy ‘made from the finest ingredients’ (TIME OUT). Book now and get your tickets to this ‘joyously life-affirming celebration of love and friendship’ (EXPRESS).
THE DETAILS Churchill Theatre High St, Bromley BR1 1HA Box office: 0343 310 0020 churchilltheatre.co.uk
Please note:Waitress deals with some adult content and themes so discretion is advised for parents bringing children under age 13. The producers may make alterations to the published cast for any reason, at any time, and therefore cannot guarantee the appearance of any named artist.
14 FEBRUARY 2022
IS COMING TO BROMLEY
MATT WILLIS AS DR POMATTER
MON 21 - SAT 26 FEBRUARY 2022
churchilltheatre.co.uk | Box Office: 0343 310 0020 *Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
OUT & ABOUT
A brand new stage production of Private Peaceful, Michael Morpurgo’s award-winning novel is coming to Churchill Theatre Bromley in March.
F
irst published in 2003 by Harper Collins, Private Peaceful was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal and won the Red House Children’s Book Award and the Blue Peter Book Award. Acknowledged by Morpurgo as his favourite work, this thrilling new ensemble retelling for the stage explores the lengths a young soldier will go to, to fight for what is right. Michael Morpurgo OBE says: “Young men and young women who grew up just like Private Peaceful, at home, safe with their families, went off in their millions to the battlefields of the First World War from all over the world. What followed was universal human suffering on a scale never witnessed in human history before. The universality of the tragedy disguises all too easily that each one of those who went was a son or a daughter, loved and so often, lost. Private Peaceful was one of those. It’s so important to me, and not because I wrote the story, that his story and the story of all the others, is told and told again. It’s wonderful to me that through this extraordinary play, the story is being told in theatres all over this country.”
16 FEBRUARY 2022
Private Peaceful introduces us to the Peaceful brothers, Tommo and Charlie, whose tough rural childhood, framed by the loss of their father, forges an irrevocable sibling loyalty. Until one day they both fall for the same girl. And then the Great War comes. Here we join 18-year-old Private Tommo Peaceful in the trenches as he takes us on a journey through his most cherished memories and tells his story of courage, devotion, family and friendship. Director, Elle While says: “I am so delighted to bring this extraordinarily talented team back together to fully realise this powerful new adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s classic story of love, loss and loyalty. We cannot wait to finally be able to share this production, which relishes in the power of theatrical storytelling, with live audiences throughout the UK.”
The universality of the tragedy disguises all too easily that each one of those who went was a son or a daughter,
THE DETAILS Churchill Theatre High St, Bromley BR1 1HA Box office: 0343 310 0020 churchilltheatre.co.uk
Tue 8 - Sat 12 March 2022 Jonathan Church Theatre Productions presents the Nottingham Playhouse production
Box Office 0343 310 0020 churchilltheatre.co.uk
OUT & ABOUT
COMING SOON AT
TRINITY THEATRE
Trinity is recognised as a vibrant cultural hub situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, offering a varied seasonal programme, inspiring all age groups with our vision leading on enriching lives and promoting cultural togetherness. Licorice Pizza Cinema · 8th February · 2pm & 8pm · £9+ 5 Stars - Anderson crafts an offbeat love story that manages to be sweet, hilarious, absurd and wholly believable. California’s San Fernando Valley, 1973.
Gary Valentine (Cooper Hoffman) is a precocious high schooler and child star who meets – and is immediately besotted with – Alana (Alana Haim), a twenty-something photographer’s assistant trying desperately to find herself. The two of them form an unlikely bond, and soon begin running around the Valley together taking part in Gary’s many haphazard schemes.
Le Wine Club Friday 25th February · 8pm £14+ Join chanteuse and sommelier Anna Lou in her wine bar as she and her accordion take you on a light-hearted journey through the world of wine and help her solve the murderous mystery of her lover’s disappearance. Written and performed by Anna Larkin (Cabaret Roulette), this solo cabaret show is part wine tasting, part musical comedy, with a splash of mystery. “The twisted lyricist your mother warned you about.” This Is Cabaret
The Miraculous Mis-adventures of Robin Hood 10th-16th February · 1pm/7pm · £15+ Squabbles over casting, a battle for top billing and the flareup of a few personalities? It must be time for The Miraculous Mis-adventures of Robin Hood! Our musical band of brothers (and others) stomps onto our stage in full this February. Trinity’s Sherwood themed show features TWENTY-ONE characters, SIX boisterous songs, a carousel of musical kit and a dangerously available selection of swords, arrows and egos! Five actors, one folktale, this action-packed, fast-paced romp, will have you laughing long after the curtain closes on this theatrical family feast! AGE 6+
Headcase Saturday 26th February · 8pm · £14+ New theatre! Written and performed by Kristin Mcilquham. Directed by Laura Keefe. As actor and writer Kristin Mcilquham approaches the big 4-0 she’s forced to confront, kicking and screaming, some of the unfinished business in her life. A funny & moving true story about the aftermath of her father’s brain injury and the impact that’s had on their relationship, her life and, well, pretty much everything really. Trinity Theatre, Church Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent, TN1 1JP | Box Office: 01892 678 678 | www.trinitytheatre.net 18 FEBRUARY 2022
Trinity Theatre
and
The Three Inch Fools
PRESENT
THE MIRACULOUS MIS-ADVENTURES OF
10th-16th FEBRUARY 2022 01892 678 678 www.trinitytheatre.net
OUT & ABOUT
BBC SEVEN WORLDS ONE PLANET LIVE IN CONCERT UK Premiere at The O2 Arena London, 31st March 2022 hosted by BAFTA winning British Explorer, Naturalist and TV Presenter Steve Backshall
B
BC Studios and concert promoter FKP Scorpio UK have announced the new rescheduled date for the highly anticipated UK concert premiere of Seven Worlds, One Planet. The event will be hosted by BAFTA winning British explorer Steve Backshall, accompanied by the very best hand-picked musicians that make up the specially created Seven Worlds Symphonic Orchestra & Choir, conducted by Matthew Freeman. When the landmark TV series, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, was first broadcast in the UK, it took viewers on an epic journey that not only celebrated the diversity of life on each of the seven continents. It went on to become BBC One’s most-watched factual TV show of 2019 and will finally celebrate its UK premiere live concert performance in a very special one-off concert, presenting the very best footage and music from the highly acclaimed television series. The live concert will present some of the most spectacular scenes from the programme displayed on a giant state of the art 4K Ultra HD LED screen. The series took a staggering 1,500 people over 4 years to make, including 92 film shoots across 41 countries. Accompanying the footage on screen, the series hugely emotive score was composed by Academy Award winner Hans Zimmer and Jacob Shea for Bleeding Fingers Music, and features
20 FEBRUARY 2022
the captivating song ‘Out There’, produced specifically for the series by Zimmer and the multi-award winning artist SIA. The audience will be taken on a journey of discovery through the ‘seven worlds’ - from the colourful paradises of South America to Asia’s vast wilderness; from the unforgiving deep freeze of the Antarctic to the searing heat of Africa; from North America via Australia to wildlife closer to home in Europe. The live concert format for these breathtaking television programmes has already proved hugely successful over the past number of years, with close to half million UK & European fans having already attended concerts for the outstanding BBC Studios Planet Earth and Blue Planet series.
For more details and to purchase tickets visit seven-worlds-one-planet-live.co.uk Seven Worlds, One Planet – Live in Concert, The O2 Arena Tickets: £65/£55/£45 Under 14 discount tickets available Box Office: theo2.co.uk or 0844 856 0202 axs.com eventim.co.uk; ticketmaster.co.uk; seetickets.com
SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE FROM TRUSTED EXPERTS ON DIVORCE AND SEPARATION If you have reached the point of moving on from your marriage or a long-term relationship, it’s time to talk to us. Whether your main concern is the welfare of children, obtaining a fair financial settlement or getting to grips with the whole divorce process, our family law experts can help you and your family. Divorce doesn’t have to be acrimonious and we will always aim to reach amicable settlements where possible through the use of a trained Collaborative Lawyer. However, we all know that it is an emotionally challenging experience. And you will be grateful you chose the calm and authoritative support our Law Society Accredited solicitors, guiding you through your options and by your side whenever you need us. Call us on 020 8464 4242 or email enquiries@wellerslawgroup.com to find out more about our reduced rate, no obligation, initial consultation and our fixed fee divorce service.
www.wellerslawgroup.com Wellers Law Group LLP is registered in England and Wales, registered number OC350170 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No 525515.
OUT & ABOUT
JUDGE & PRIESTLEY’S NEW BLACKHEATH OFFICE
F
ollowing on from the acquisition of the business interests of Cunningham Blake Solicitors in April 2021, Judge & Priestley LLP is now proud to announce that its new street level public reception area is now open. The office is located in the heart of Blackheath village, at 9 Tranquil Vale, SE3 0BU. Steve Taylor, J&P ‘s Managing Partner commented “We have been steadily establishing the Judge & Priestley name in the Blackheath area since last April and we are delighted to have now opened the new street level shop front, directly below our offices in Spencer Yard. The new space will make access much easier for clients and will significantly improve our visibility in the Village. We look forward to welcoming previous clients of Cunningham Blake, and new clients from the area, to our premises over the coming weeks and months.” The newly refurbished office space features a reception and waiting area and a meeting room, all at ground floor level, with easy access from Tranquil Vale. Judge & Priestley LLP is a fast-growing
22 FEBRUARY 2022
generalist solicitors practice based in South East London. It is headquartered in Bromley, with additional offices in Beckenham and Blackheath. It has 20 partners and over 180 employees. For more information, please contact David Finnis: dfinnis@judge-priestley.co.uk or visit our website.
“The newly refurbished office space features a reception and waiting area and a meeting room, all at ground floor level, with easy access from Tranquil Vale”
Rediscover England’s First Cathedral • UNESCO World Heritage site • 1,400 years of history • Resting place of saints and royalty
Kids Go Free until 31 October 2022 (T&Cs apply) www.canterbury-cathedral.org
OUT & ABOUT
Binding Settlements in Mediation There can be a reluctance to see a family mediator, thinking that proposals made there cannot become legally binding. However mediators can set out a full pathway to a final financial settlement. By Caroline Bowden
A
fter proposals are reached, a mediator can draft a document that can be turned into a binding court order, often called a consent order. The mediator can take the participants through all the finer drafting details during their meetings: these will be based on judicially-approved standard paragraphs. These are then modified as the circumstances require. The mediator then prepares the initial draft of the consent order, based on these discussions, and this draft will then be included within the mediator’s normal outcome document, called a memorandum. Afterward, participants are strongly advised to get their own legal advice. This is not long or costly. It helps each person understand what the proposals mean from their perspective. It also gives them the
Mediation can therefore indeed lead clients through to getting a consent order, providing a full and binding outcome 24 FEBRUARY 2022
confidence that they are along the right track. One advantage is that the solicitors will need to do much less additional negotiating or drafting than when mediators only set proposals in very broad terms. It is much better to spot issues that may make the proposals unworkable in mediation. This reduces the risk that discussions needed to cover the detail after mediation finishes might undermine the settlement altogether. Another benefit is that participants feel less marginalised than when they had to allow their solicitors to negotiate the finer points of the consent order after mediation finished. Clients now have greater control, as the mediator will take them through the more detailed issues earlier. Amendments can still be made after the draft has left the mediation process. It is hoped that these will then be minor. No time spent by a solicitor should duplicate the work of the mediator, which keeps the costs down. Mediation can therefore indeed lead clients through to getting a consent order, providing a full and binding outcome. It can be an arrangement truly tailored to individual needs as participants have been able to be involved in all stages.
Caroline Bowden Law Society and Family Mediation Council (FMC) Accredited Mediator
THE DETAILS Anthony Gold For more information contact the Anthony Gold Family Team directly at mail@anthonygold.co.uk or call 020 7940 4060
OUT & ABOUT
Can the COVID-19 Crisis Justify Reopening Financial Orders in Divorce? Can the economic havoc wreaked by the COVID-19 pandemic justify the redrawing of final financial orders made following a divorce? The High Court has ruled in a guideline case that the answer to that question is ‘probably not’.
T
he case concerned a couple whose principal asset was a business in the education sector. A judge ruled on the financial aspects of their divorce in October 2019, a few months prior to the onset of the pandemic. She ordered that, of total assets worth £4.75 million, the husband should receive 58 per cent and the wife 42 per cent. The wife agreed that the husband should keep the business, an asset that pre-dated the marriage and which thus had, to some extent, a non-matrimonial element. The unequal division of assets was also justified by the fact that the husband’s shares in the business carried an element of risk and were not comparable to cash in the bank. The business was hit hard after COVID-19 reached these shores and schools were closed as part of the lockdown. The husband applied to set aside parts of the order on the basis that the pandemic was an unforeseen and unforeseeable event that resulted in devastating financial consequences, which invalidated the fundamental assumptions on which the order was based. Dismissing his application, however, the Court
26 FEBRUARY 2022
focused on the economic impact of the intervening event, rather than its cause or nature. The damage caused to the business by the pandemic was, in the end, no different from that which might have arisen from the 2008 global financial crisis. Although each case had to be decided on its own specific facts, the pandemic was probably not an event that could justify reopening a final judicial order. The Court acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on the business’s turnover and profitability. The initial blow had, however, been softened by its receipt of £3.1 million from the government’s furlough scheme. It had also taken a low-interest £460,000 coronavirus business interruption loan and had good prospects of bouncing back from the crisis. A reasonable person would have said in October 2019 that there was certainly a chance, which could not sensibly be ignored, that there would be an economic downturn in the next year. It was absolutely clear that the basis of the judge’s order was that the husband would be retaining assets which were risky and, for that reason, would be granted a greater than equal share of the assets.
The couple’s business was hit hard after COVID-19 reached these shores and schools were closed as part of the lockdown THE DETAILS For family law advice, please contact Claire Schneck on 01689 887828 or email claire.schneck@cwj.co.uk Clarkson Wright & Jakes Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA ID Number 558946
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OUT & ABOUT
Invest In Your Future Save time and money with the right advice from Glade Financial
G
osia is a very special lady. After over twenty years working in marketing, many within the financial industry, she realised there was something she was rather good at. Many of her friends and family asked for her advice on money and property matters. This sparked her goal to educate women to be financially savvy with the knowledge of how to manage their own money. She re-trained as a mortgage advisor and set up her own company, Glade Financial, just before the pandemic hit and hasn’t looked back. Her friendly, open nature drew clients to her and her confidence and business soared. “It’s not just financial advice,” says Gosia. “It’s about giving support to those who may have lost their way and making sure everyone has a secure future. Owning a property is so much more than the four walls around you, it’s a keystone of wealth and security.” As well as mortgage and insurance advice, Gosia also works with property investors looking to make their money work hard for them now and in the future.
28 FEBRUARY 2022
Gosia Dawson Founder “With more people moving out of congested London, I see more young entrepreneurs in their thirties and early forties who want to invest their money in property as a way to secure their future and possibly income in retirement,” she explains. “They may have done well throughout their careers, or come into money through an inheritance, for example. Most would like to build a property portfolio but financially don’t know where to begin. I work with both small and large portfolio landlords, advising them of the highs and lows of property financing and how to secure better returns for their investments.”
“It’s not just financial advice,” says Gosia. “It’s about giving support to those who may have lost their way and making sure everyone has a secure future.”
THE DETAILS Glade Financial If you’re looking for advice and support with your finances contact Gosia on 0203 488 3999 Registered Individual of Charles Crown Financial, FCA 774448 YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY DEBT SECURED UPON IT
MORTGAGE
ADVISORS
Your home can be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Registered Individual of Charles Crown Group, FCA 774448
OUT & ABOUT
A quintessential English town where city meets country Modern town centre apartments available at Quinton Court, Sevenoaks
T
he past two years have seen the home counties increase in popularity for city-dwellers escaping the capital by as much as 62% according to estate agents Hamptons. Kent has seen its fair share of these relocators, on the hunt for rural living with urban amenities that provide the perfect compromise between city and country. The leafy commuter town of Sevenoaks is one such location that ticks all the boxes for London leavers not quite ready to give up their previous lifestyle. With its world-class education offering, vibrant community, and unrivalled commuter links into the city, this quintessentially English town and surrounding beautiful rolling countryside is the perfect choice for buyers looking for a new home outside of London. Located in the heart of Sevenoaks, Berkeley’s Quinton Court provides a rare opportunity to own an elegant new home in this popular town. A boutique collection of two-bedroom apartments, the development is set in an elegant and tasteful building which perfectly complements the local architecture in the town. Surrounding a picturesque courtyard, the readyto-move-into apartments have a high-quality specification with large, open-plan living areas and excellent-quality finishes. Working from home could not be easier as with flexible layouts and spacious rooms, these apartments easily
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accommodate a home office if needed. Furthermore, for those who want the convenience of a furnished home, a selection of the apartments are fully dressed with window dressings and light fittings included, and buyers have the option of purchasing the furniture. Boasting a thriving, well-established high street, Sevenoaks has plenty on offer to satisfy different tastes. Situated in the centre of the town, Quinton Court provides easy access to the bountiful choice of well-known retail brands as well as local boutiques, hairdressers, and beauty salons. In addition to the selection of retail offerings, there is also an array of restaurants and bars as well as delicious delis and cosy coffee shops. For those in search of local produce, a weekly farmer’s market is also held in the town centre bringing a selection of fresh delicacies from Kentish farmers. Surrounding the town, picturesque countryside is in abundance and perfect for those weekend walkers and evening strollers. The 1,000-acre Knole Park is just a short walk away and home to a National Trust historic estate, herd of wild deer and expansive parkland, ideal for nature lovers. Whether it is for work or socialising with friends, Sevenoaks could not be better placed for those wanting easy access to the capital. The town’s train station is a commuter’s dream with services to London Charing Cross (via London Bridge and Waterloo East) in as little as 22 minutes.
Working from home could not be easier as with flexible layouts and spacious rooms
THE DETAILS Berkeley Group Prices at Quinton Court start from £595,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. For more information or to make an appointment to visit the development, please visit Quintoncourt.co.uk
BRAND NEW
S H OW A PA RT M E N T N OW L AU N C HE D This stunning 2 bedroom show apartment benefits from open plan living, bespoke kitchen with integrated appliances, terrace and secure private underground parking. This 2 bedroom fully furnished apartment is ready to move into now. Quinton Court is a 6 minute* walk from Sevenoaks railway station, where frequent connections take you to central London in just 22 minutes*.
F U L LY F U R N I S H E D 2 B E D R O O M A P A R T M E N T P R I C E D AT £ 6 2 5 , 0 0 0 * * A L S O AVA I L A B L E 2 B E D R O O M A PA RT M E N T S F R O M £ 5 9 5 , 0 0 0 * *
01732
To find out more, or to book an appointment please call 809 547 or email us at quintoncourt@berkeleygroup.co.uk
Quinton Court Sales and Marketing Suite, London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 1BA Open daily between 10am – 6pm Photography is of Quinton Court and indicative only. *Journey times are approximate only. Source: nationalrail.co.uk. **Prices correct at time of going to press.
OUT & ABOUT
THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW 2022 19-20 February at London Olympia | 25-27 March at NEC Birmingham 9-10 April at London ExCeL
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ith an anticipated 200,000 weddings due to take place in 2022, in addition to the 280,000 weddings that take place in the UK each year, figures suggest that we’re entering record years for the Weddings industry. Recent surveys by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti* have revealed that 93% of couples have postponed their wedding to a later date, with 67% of those couples saying their wedding budget has not been impacted by the pandemic and 13% of couples saying the pandemic has meant they now have a bigger wedding budget than originally planned. The UK’s leading wedding event, The National Wedding Show will be going ahead this Spring at London Olympia, London ExCeL and NEC Birmingham. The National Wedding Show has established itself over the past 25 years as the ultimate destination for wedding planning, with thousands of couples visiting the shows every season. Featuring hundreds of wedding suppliers already confirmed, the Spring 2022 Shows will also continue to include a stunning Catwalk, a WEDTalk stage, the Inspired Bakes Gallery, and much more. The Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Show will run alongside the ExCel show, showcasing venues and services from beautiful locations all over the world. 32 FEBRUARY 2022
Cassandra Denman, Group Show Director says “We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to improve our visitor experience with exciting new features, to attract more wedding planning couples to the show than ever. The level of ticket sales we’ve seen in the past few months has been unprecedented. There’s a real buzz around the events this Spring and we can’t wait to be back, supporting the best suppliers the wedding industry has to offer as they get back on their feet after a challenging 2 years.” *Based on 5,353 responses collected through surveys run by The National Wedding Show in partnership with Confetti in February and August 2021. LIFE MAGAZINES READER OFFER Quote LIFEMAG and get standard tickets for only £16.50 and VIP tickets for only £30 For more details on all events, please visit nationalweddingshow.co.uk
OUT & ABOUT
Frasers of Egerton
The Perfect Country Venue If you’re looking for a special venue for your wedding or event, look no further! Frasers of Egerton offers luxury rooms, top-quality food and spectacular surroundings, all supported by a strong sustainable ethos.
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rom weddings and private parties to group dining and corporate events, the team at Frasers will go the extra mile to make sure your special occasion is truly one to
remember. Located in the heart of the Kent countryside, yet only 20 minutes from junction 8 of the M20, Frasers is a 300-acre eco-estate and working farm that hosts bespoke events with a difference in an idyllic rural setting. Entertain between 20 and 50 guests in the traditional Kentish oak barn restaurant or the outdoor terrace in summer months, or for larger gatherings the grand marquee can host up to 160 guests. All the food served at Frasers is fresh from the farm and kitchen garden, or is sourced from local artisan producers, including the best local vineyards and breweries. For smaller gatherings, group dining options include the private Chef ’s Table Experience, complete with
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THE DETAILS Frasers of Egerton Coldharbour Farm, Barham’s Mill Road, Egerton, Nr. Ashford, Kent TN27 9DD T: 01233 756122 E: info@frasersegerton.co.uk frasersegerton.co.uk
7-course taster menu, overnight stay and exclusive use of Stags Barn for groups of eight. New Easter menus and Afternoon Teas are also available. Additionally, Frasers offers a range of activity workshops as day courses or overnight packages for groups including hen parties, corporate away days, team-building activities and much more. Popular options include cookery, photography, foraging and wine tasting, but programmes can be tailor-made to fit the needs and interests of the group, with meeting rooms also available. Mindful of its environmental impact, Frasers already produces 80% of the energy needs for the farm and hospitality business through a ground source heat pump, air source heat pump and solar array with the aim of being entirely carbon neutral within a few years. For a unique setting that offers luxury, sustainability, top-quality local produce, beautiful countryside walks and an abundance of nature on the doorstep, Frasers really is the perfect choice.
e r u t a n t e L e f i l r u o y into
Bluebell Walk
Sunday 1 May 2022 at Cudham, Kent Ever been on a countryside ramble and wondered what that beautiful plant was called? Or what type of bird you’ve seen flying overhead? On our Bluebell Walk, you’ll meet tour guides along the way, ready and waiting to tell you fun facts about the flora and fauna you’re wandering within. Book your place today to enjoy the beautiful bluebells, ancient trees and rare birds at this educational and fun event.
www.stchristophers.org.uk/bbcl Registered charity 210667 registered with the Fundraising Regulator © St Christopher’s February 2022
OUT & ABOUT
Stylish Elegance C
Appealing to stylish brides wanting quality and originality alongside a personal approach to finding ‘the dress’, Blackburn Bridal celebrates seventeen years as one of London’s leading independent bridal boutiques!
hoosing your wedding dress should be one of the most memorable and enjoyable parts of planning your big day. We offer all this amongst fun, honesty, laughter and the surroundings of our luxurious and warm boutique nestled in the heart of Blackheath, South-East London. Over the years the boutique has earnt quite a celebrity following with Russell dressing well known names such as Katie Melua, Billie Shepherd, Samantha Faiers,Olivia Atwood, Candice Brown and Amanda Byram. Fashion-forward, cool, elegant and bohemian, our brides travel from all over the world to visit the shop and choose from our
Choosing your wedding dress should be one of the most memorable and enjoyable parts of planning your big day
THE DETAILS Blackburn Bridal To book an appointment please contact us at info@blackburnbridal.co.uk 0208 297 1188 www.blackburnbridal.co.uk Follow us on Instagram @blackburnbridal 36 FEBRUARY 2022
extensive selection of exclusive designers including; Australian designer Anna Campbell, Polish designer Anna Kara, Fran Rios London and the boutique’s most popular collection Blackburn Couture designed by owner Russell Blackburn. More recently Russell has turned his hand to designing for Mothers of the Bride. ‘I found lots of our customers’ mothers were struggling to find a dress that was modern and showed off their personality rather than being overly traditional.’ I started off designing a few bespoke dresses and it grew from there! We now offer an extensive collection of elegant, chic and stylish gowns in a range of shapes, fabrics and colourways that are designed to offer the ultimate fit - ensuring our mums feel utterly fabulous on their son or daughter’s big day! Elegant, chic and stylish, the collection is perfect if you are looking for something a little less traditional and more in keeping with your modern aesthetic. Appointments with Russell last an hour and are very consultative. During this time we will look to try on a range of styles and discuss colourway options to best suit you. Each dress in the collection is made to order, therefore please allow 10-12 weeks for your dress. The collection starts from £595.
THE
LIFE MAGAZINES
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2
THE FINEST SCHOOLS IN YOUR AREA
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
BREASIDE, A TRULY UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT Breaside Preparatory School has a character all of its own – a real ‘buzz’ around the building, from our youngest children in the Early Years all the way up to our Year 6 children preparing for the next steps in their education.
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t is this buzz that captures the heart of Breaside, a truly unique environment where importance is placed on celebrating the individual and the belief that all our children can be anything that they want to be. Our school is a place where children are happy, confident, and proud of their achievements, both inside and out of the classroom. It gives us great pleasure therefore, to be able to add to our extensive list of accomplishments the result of our recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection which highlighted the wonderful achievements of our exceptional school. The report, published in November 2021, judged all areas of Breaside to be ‘Excellent’ – a result that is a true testament to the dedication and collaboration of our whole school community - pupils, staff and parents.
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“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.” ISI Report Nov 2021
The Breaside curriculum is designed in such a way that it motivates and challenges every child to achieve their true potential. Using evidenced research and the views of the pupils themselves, teaching and learning is constantly evolving with innovative ‘flipped’ teaching models successfully running alongside more traditional methods. At the heart of this is a personalised approach to learning that offers a platform from which all children can thrive. Breaside children love to be challenged and they develop a growth mindset, taking pride in their learning and continuously striving to achieve. Their outstanding results speak for themselves, being significantly above national expectations, and our list of leaver’s destinations grows wider and more distinguished year upon year. No matter what the destination, we are incredibly proud that our children
“A great all round experience for any child. Teaching is second to none and the atmosphere created at school is one of warmth and happiness” Year 3 Parent
“First class care for students” Year 3 Parent
move on to a school that is perfect for them. A Breaside education, however, is about so much more than academics. At the very heart is an unwavering focus on the wellbeing of our children, ensuring that our school environment is a place where they feel safe, secure, valued and happy. Our safeguarding culture is truly embedded and underpins the foundations of our school and our excellent pastoral approach places emphasis on developing each child as an individual. From the very start of their journey with us, our youngest children enjoy the benefits of our on-site Forest School and begin learning outside the classroom through a variety of day trips. This continues as children move through the school and a host of residential opportunities are added that enable children to enhance their knowledge and acquire life skills and independence. Our programme of extra-curricular activities is hugely popular, with children from Kindergarten to Year 6 engaging in instrumental lessons, language learning and creative arts and a focus on our children’s health and wellbeing is complemented by the outdoor gym and trim trail, and a wide variety of sporting opportunities for all. This wealth of opportunities on offer at Breaside inspires every child to be the change makers of the future, allowing them to develop critical life skills in areas such as innovation, creativity, collaboration and technology, to name just a few. We are very proud of our programme of character development, which
alongside our outstanding academic provision, is something really special.
“I could not imagine a better school for our child” Year 1 Parent
Here at Breaside, we take great pride in our longstanding academic success and place high importance on inspiring a true love of learning that extends beyond our classrooms. Fostering independence and resilience is key to our ethos, and empowering our children, by equipping them with the right balance of skills for the future, ensures that they have the best start for their role in the global community.
THE DETAILS Breaside Preparatory School 41-43 Orchard Road, Bromley, Kent BR1 2PR Telephone: 020 8460 0916 www.breaside.co.uk
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INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
New Head at Bickley Park to build on Success Mrs. Tammy Howard has joined Bickley Park School, where she started in her post as Head at the beginning of January. She joins at an exciting time for the school, following on from its ‘Prep School of the Year’ win at the end of last year and is in prime position to build on this success.
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rs. Howard said, “With the outstanding reputation of Bickley Park School as culturally rich with high aspirations for the young men of the future, I am delighted to be taking up this position to work with the excellent Senior Leadership Team and all the staff, to build on their recent success. “Our curriculum is designed to maximize impactful learning for boys. While that can mean catering to boys’ interests, it can also mean encouraging them to explore new opportunities and to embrace different models of masculinity. Boys are hands-on learners and finding ways of harnessing their natural energy and curiosity is a priority for us. Understanding the importance of the early years as a foundation for future success, we have started the year by giving our Nursery and Reception spaces a makeover with additional resources and areas of interest for our children. This will allow for the deeper learning and natural passion for exploration to take place with our youngest learners. My aim is for our young men to leave us confident, articulate, motivated by learning, and equipped to make the world a better place.” Mandeep Hansra, Chair of Governors, said, “We are thrilled to have secured such a high-quality new Head for Bickley Park. Tammy is experienced across all age ranges from the Early Years through to Prep and beyond, and has the drive and personality to
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take Bickley Park’s vision forward. We are excited to see the school go from strength to strength.” Bickley Park is holding an Early Years Open Morning on Saturday 12th March between 10:00am and 12:00pm. Prospective families are welcome to visit the refurbished Nursery and Reception classrooms and meet Mrs Howard. Please register your interest at www.bickleyparkschool or call our admissions team on 0208 467 2195.
My aim is for our young men to leave us confident, articulate, motivated by learning, and equipped to make the world a better place
THE DETAILS Bickley Park School 14 Page Heath Lane, Bromley BR1 2DS 020 8467 2195 info@bickleyparkschool.co.uk www.bickleyparkschool.co.uk
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
BABINGTON HOUSE SCHOOL
Inspiring Teachers, Inspiring Children We encourage our students to think and dream big, and they do so, secure in the knowledge that we will provide them with the support to make their dreams become a reality.
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ixth Form pupils at Babington House School study three A-level subjects, including Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Sports Science (PE), Economics, English, Politics, Geography, history, and psychology. In our last set of A-Level results, in August 2021, two-thirds of our Sixth Formers achieved straight A*and A grades, and overall, the cohort achieved 92% A* to B. On average, over the last four years, we have achieved a phenomenal 85% A*-B, and before that, we were the top small independent school in the country for A-Levels (Telegraph League Tables). Alongside this, we offer an EPQ (Educational Project Qualification), which is UCAS accredited and enables our students to pursue an avenue of interest of their choice. We focus on small tutorial groups supported by highly dedicated, A-Level specialist teachers who
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make learning engaging, precise, and targeted exam success. The Sixth Formers also have a lot of fun, enjoying a range of sports, drama, music, and the arts. The intimate nature of our Sixth Form encourages firm friendships that last a lifetime. The students also receive quality careers education, information, advice, and guidance to make informed choices for further education and work. We are very well known for our excellent pastoral support, which is intuitive and far-reaching. It’s no secret how competitive it is to achieve the top University places. Still, with scrupulous attention to all our students’ UCAS applications, we can provide pupils with the best chance to secure those offers and have great success. We also have a successful track record in pupils being awarded highly competitive Degree Apprenticeship places. At Babington House, exciting futures are indeed made possible.
The intimate nature of our Sixth Form encourages firm friendships that last a lifetime
THE DETAILS Babington House School Grange Drive, Chislehurst Kent BR7 5ES Tel: 020 8467 5537 E: enquiries@babingtonhouse.com Find out more: www.babingtonhouse.com
Babington House School Independent Day School from 3 to 18 years Grange Drive, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5ES Headmaster: Mr T Lello, MA, FRSA, NPQH, PGCE
Inspiring Teachers, Inspiring Children
Whole School Open Morning Saturday, 12th March 2022 Register Now: www.babingtonhouse.com
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
Bromley High Junior School girls
code the future
Encouraging young girls to engage with STEM activities has never been more important in our society than it is today. At Bromley High School, girls as young as four are introduced to programming through systematic and developmental processes that will capture their imagination and creativity.
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t’s important for girls to relate to what they are learning and to see the bigger picture. Programming is just one element of our computing curriculum; understanding how and why technology works is just as essential. By giving girls a global view and bringing coding to life with real examples, we can make programming relatable and much more exciting too. Examples that relate to the tech they know and love – such as smartphones – work brilliantly. Recently, our pupils used BBC microbit computers (www. microbit.org) to code a step-o-meter. When the girls discovered that their phones and smart watches were programmed, using a sensor to count steps in exactly the same way, they were fascinated. Sharing these examples is important for girls and making a connection gives them their lightbulb moment. Using our innovative new facilities, our staff deliver exceptional computing teaching which goes beyond the bounds of the national curriculum. In addition to a suite of computers and flexible working areas, the Digital Learning Hub will offer the opportunity to display screens from student iPads to allow collaboration, use floor space for robotics and augmented reality work, develop creativity with animation and filmmaking using green screening and enable access to the beautiful outside learning spaces.
The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) creates opportunities for girls to engage in team coding activities very early in their school career. Our pupils are invited to an annual Junior Techathon where they investigate world problems and devise solutions using technology, for example by planning ideas to support a sustainable city. The event is supported by a panel of female technologists and computer scientists. Today’s students are tomorrow’s tech leaders and there is no doubt that many of these will be women. Let’s help our girls to see the difference that they could make. Let’s give them the self-belief to code the future.
Let’s help our girls to see the difference that they could make. and give them the self-belief to code the future THE DETAILS Bromley High School Blackbrook Lane, Bromley Kent BR1 2TW www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net
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Open Morning Junior & Senior Schools Tuesday 10th May Register online www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net
Bright Minds, Bright Futures
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
SYDENHAM HIGH SCHOOL: 135 years of first-class education
22.02.2022 - a date for reflection and looking ahead for Sydenham High School as it celebrates 135 years of the first-class education delivered to pupils since 22 February 1887. Founders of the school, Maria Grey, Mary Gurney, Emily Shirreff and Lady Stanley of Alderley championed the unfashionable cause of education for women, overcoming considerable opposition on the grounds of religion, social status and gender, as well as lack of funding that boys’ public schools were afforded at the time. Their aims were to provide an academic grounding, first-class teaching and an environment that developed character and personality and they are shining examples of the values of courage, resilience and determination that the school is built upon. The school motto of “fear nothing” aptly emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, stepping outside their comfort zones, developing independence of mind, the courage to take risks and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right. History shows the school’s ability to overcome adversity, from the evacuation to Brighton during The Second World War to the 48 FEBRUARY 2022
“The school motto of “fear nothing” aptly emboldens pupils as they forge their own path through life, stepping outside their comfort zones, developing independence of mind, the courage to take risks and the ability and awareness to stand up for what is right”
fire in 1997 which gutted the Victorian heart of the school. The spirit of perseverance endured the coronavirus pandemic with staff adapting seamlessly to the necessary hybrid learning. The school’s inclusive nature provides a broad and balanced curriculum with a solid foundation of pastoral care, putting the wellbeing of its entire community at the forefront, with parents regularly sharing positive praise: “I’d like to send an expression of gratitude for all that you are doing for our daughters. It means so much to know that you are backing them every step of the way. If nothing else, this generation is truly learning to fear nothing and identifying how adaptable humans can be.” In recent years, the school has grown in size and so has the dedication to the objectives laid out 135 years earlier, allowing pupils to reach their potential whatever their starting point. Alumnae become climate change consultants, doctors, authors, scientists, artists, Grammy Award-winning musicians and even a horse-racing icon! Ready to call out inequality or injustice in whatever form it may present itself, pupils have a strong moral compass, leading the way on many social issues, while being accepting and respectful of themselves and others. Whilst celebrating 135 years of dedication to educating girls, Sydenham High is empowered to forge its own path, creating a new history for 135 more. sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net
A first-class education for girls aged 4 to 18, since 1887
Nothing should hold a girl back. Discover how we educate fearless girls, happy and confident about their futures. Prep School Open Morning: Friday 19 March Celebrating 135 yearsOpen of Senior School Morning: Thursday 25 March empowering pupils to open events and taster sessions are bookable on our website. forge theirVirtual own path. www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net | admissions@syd.gdst.net 020 8557 7004 | 15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
A
The importance of SCHOOL OPEN DAYS
s we approach the new term, it is now when thoughts turn to Independent School Open Days - allowing you to get a genuine feel for the school and whether on first impressions it is right for your child.
TOP TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF A SCHOOL OPEN DAY… • Check on the school website if you need to make an appointment prior to visiting • It is vital that you are prepared so read their school brochures thoroughly • Take your child with you – their opinion is the most important. Children will get an idea whether they feel comfortable there. • Talk to as many people as you can: pupils, teachers and the headmaster ideally • Take an independent walk around with your child and chat about any reservations you might both have.
QUESTIONS TO ASK AT A SCHOOL OPEN DAY…. Some questions will differ according to your child’s age and whether you are visiting a day or boarding school. • How selective is the school academically and what is the current pass rate for the common entrance exam? • Are there high expectations and high academic achievements? • Is the curriculum broad and well balanced? (you want your child to be successful but not too compelled in pressure) • What are the classroom sizes? 50 FEBRUARY 2022
• What is expected of my child with regard to homework? • Is there a healthy balance of fun and academia? • Is there a bullying policy? • What lunchtime meals are available? • What sports and music facilities are available? • What after school clubs and trips are available? • How many pupils branch out into further education? After the tour, you may have the opportunity to meet other parents and children on a more informal footing whereby the teachers and the head can answer queries over coffee and biscuits.
An Inspired Education A dynamic environment where students are inspired by our adventurous approach to learning 01233 625 171 | registrar@ashfordschool.co.uk | ashfordschool.co.uk
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
Rise to the Challenge of Learning with ‘Excellent Learning’ Animals Set within five acres of green fields and woodland, Dulwich Prep London’s Early Years is a popular choice for families who are looking to provide their children with a solid foundation to their education right from the start.
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hildren spend two fantastic years at the Early Years site (Nursery and Reception), before moving up to the purpose-built Pre-Prep, for Years 1 and 2 at Dulwich Prep’s Alleyn Park site. The transition from the Early Years to the Alleyn Park site is made seamless for the children through the continuation of important key themes. Parents visiting the Pre-Prep for the first time, after coming from the Early Years, often comment on the abundance of diverse decorations and displays hanging from walls and ceilings and immediately feel at ease once they see the fabulous facilities. When it comes to their child’s learning, the language of Excellent Learning is one that the whole of the Early Years community know like the back of their hand. Developed by Dr Ruth Burtonshaw, Head of Early Years at Dulwich Prep London, the Excellent Learning programme was designed to help children form positive learning skills, recognising that attitudes to learning are significant in determining how well we learn. Are you a ‘Willing Wolf ’ or a ‘Persevering Parrot’? Through the Excellent Learning animals children are taught how to rise to the challenges of learning. The Excellent Learning animals provide children with a framework for learning. Each week, children
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The Excellent Learning animals provide children with a framework for learning from Nursery to Year 8 focus on one of the 12 characteristics of Excellent Learning. Children are supported to become more aware of their learning skills and to develop good learning habits so that they leave Dulwich Prep as confident, motivated, independent and successful learners. Importantly, Excellent Learning is visually appealing and simple for children to understand, using animal ‘hooks’ and bright colours to aid memory. From a teachers’ perspective, it is a simple scaffold to incorporate into curriculum planning and tailor to suit the needs of individual children. Listening actively to instructions, being a happy and optimistic learner, using your imagination, developing targets and goals, doing your best and knowing that effort counts and sharing knowledge and ideas are all personal attributes that, through engaging with Excellent Learning, the children at Dulwich Prep London develop and take with them through their journey in education and beyond.
THE DETAILS Dulwich Prep London If you would like to explore Dulwich Prep London’s Early Years and Pre-Prep further, please email their Registrar, Mrs Viki Cryer, via admissions@dulwichpreplondon. org or call 020 8766 5525
70+
50+
Scholar ships Awarded in 2020-2021
Senior School Destinations
20+
150+
Musical Ensembles
Co-curricular Clubs, Activities and Trips
15+
Stage Productions
10+
25+
Spor ts Played at Ever y Level
Acres of Open Space and a Swimming Pool
7.00am - 7.30pm Extended Day Provision
12 +
Alumni and Friends School Community Events
Dulwich Prep London provides an outstanding Values-led education. We offer a wide range of opportunities to nurture independent thinkers who go on to be thoughtful citizens of the world, equipped with a strong moral compass and the ability to adapt to our rapidly changing environment. We have recently extended our purpose-built Pre-Prep. So, why not join us in Year 1?
Contact our Admissions team to book a tour on 020 8766 5525 or email admissions@dulwichpreplondon.org
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
Going above and beyond at Hurst College Our Editor finds out about the extensive intellectual programme on offer to Hurst College students
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ffering an extensive intellectual programme is key to the development of students as rounded and accomplished individuals. At Hurst College, students of all ages can access a wide range of activities including talks with visiting speakers, trips to broaden their subject knowledge, clubs to encourage their interests, and higher up the school tailored support with their chosen university course. Last year a new society was launched, Model United Nations (MUN) - a simulation of the real United Nations organisation. Students participate in fortnightly sessions and take on the representation of a country as they work with one another to debate the diplomatic issues of the day. In preparation for their first conference, in which they won five awards, Hurst’s MUN team visited several international embassies to meet with their diplomatic teams. CREST and STEM activity continues to thrive, as a record number of students achieved CREST Awards - 18 at gold level and two at silver. The awards followed eight months and 70 hours minimum work on a diverse range of science and engineering projects – including the first Biology-based project, on cryogenics. The Hurst Engineering Scheme was launched last year with sponsorship secured for a record three teams. Balfour Beatty sponsored two teams, Southern Water one team, and mentoring engineers met students at the college and via Teams. The winning team’s project was to improve connectivity between Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill through the design of a ‘green’ cycle network using e-bikes with a community hub and an app. Hurst has a long and successful track record with Young Enterprise, winning awards at county
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“Students participate in fortnightly sessions and take on the representation of a country as they work with one another to debate the diplomatic issues of the day”
and regional level. Each year the teams create new products, design bespoke websites and build comprehensive brands which always produce a profit. Last year, the Plants with Purpose YE team also made the final of the JA (Junior Achievement) competition, the European version of YE, as one of only five UK teams selected to take part. Lower Sixth students can attend regular small group sessions with a member of the Hurst teaching staff, to prepare them for completing a competitive application to a highly selective university - where going beyond achieving good A-level/BTEC grades is required to obtain an offer. Students are matched with the appropriate subject specialist, and take part in sessions which include recommending, monitoring and discussing extra reading; encountering more challenging content from beyond the curriculum; preparing entries to essay and other academic competitions; and preparing talks, lectures and seminars for students to deliver to peers. In addition, students who are considering Oxbridge, STEM degrees, Medicine, Veterinary Science or Dentistry are given further support through tailored workshops and interview practice specific to their applications. Admission tutors from these areas visit Hurst to give candidates an insight into what is required, and Hurst organises visits to Oxford and Cambridge to meet former students who are already studying there. Support and encouragement to participate in intellectual activities beyond the curriculum enables students to challenge themselves, broaden their knowledge and access a greater range of opportunities for their futures. hppc.co.uk
FASHION, HEALTH
& BEAUTY
– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – IMAGE: HEADMASTERS
FASHION,&HEALTH FASHION BEAUTY& BEAUTY
LONDON FASHION WEEK PREVIEW presented by Clearpay
AUTUMN/WINTER 2022 COLLECTIONS
T
Friday 18th- Tuesday 22nd February 2022
he world famous London Fashion Week: catwalks, celebrities, glitz and glamour. It is one of the highest profile fashion ton events in the world – and one of the ‘big 16Arling four’ international catwalk influencers alongside Paris, Milan and New York. It presents an unrivalled opportunity to showcase some of the world’s leading fashion talent and the best and brightest names in the industry. The pandemic has obviously changed Fashion Weeks across the globe. After going fully digital in 2020, London Fashion Week (LFW) returned in September 2021 with a mix of physical and digital showcases. With the Omicron variant of COVID-19 rapidly spreading late 2021, we wondered whether LFW would be cancelled or return to digital only. A provisional line-up has been released by the British Fashion Council and it looks like we will be treated to another hybrid digital-physical showcase this year. The major fashion event used to be exclusively for those who worked in the fashion industry — from buyers to journalists and even bloggers. However since the start of the pandemic, with the shift to digital, LFW has become open to everyone so has become a little more public. There are still physical shows and those are exclusive events, but you can tune in on the LFW website. So while most of us are planning our Spring and London, with designers Summer wardrobe, designers worldwide descending on the at London Fashion Week capital in one form or another. a h c o R e will be showcasing their The hybrid digital-physical Simon Autumn/Winter 2022 schedule will continue to Collections. It is a week where incorporate catwalk shows, designers are free to create at presentations, appointments, and will and experiment with new events throughout London, as trends. Whether colourful, crazy or well as digital content available controversial - the world is watching as at londonfashionweek.co.uk. fashion history is made. The LFW digital platform is the The event will incorporate catwalk Official Digital Hub and will be shows, presentations, appointments, events, freely accessible to everyone, industry digital content and activations throughout professionals and global fashion consumers
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alike, showcasing digital content from the designers, enabling collaboration and bringing together fashion, culture and technology. The provisional line-up currently sees over 100 confirmed participating designers who will present their new collections. These include: 16Arlington, Banshee of Savile Row, Matty Bovan, David Koma, Seokwoon Yoon, MAXXU, Bethany Williams, Christoph Ritter Studio, 8ON8, London College of Fashion, ERDEM, Central Saint Martins MA Fashion, Dear Frances, OSMAN, Harris Wharf London, TOGA, Simone Rocha, FASHION EAST, Richard Malone, BLOKE, HALPERN, Labrum London and Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY. LFW City Wide Celebration is a full schedule of events and activations open to the public over LFW, which will run alongside the London Fashion Week show schedule. From artistic installations at Browns East, interactive pop-ups at Machine-A to drinks at the NOW gallery and going behind the scenes at Mulberry, City Wide Celebration aims to unite London in a festival of creativity and innovation. The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections, but the media excitement that accompanies them. Celebrities swarm to attend the fashion event of the year – past attendees include Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Dame Helen Mirren, Bradley Cooper, Brigitte Nielsen,
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Yasmin Le Bon, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Elle Macpherson, Cara Delevingne, Eva Herzigova, Craig David, Pamela Anderson, Calum Best, Jude Law, Pixie Lott, Daisy Lowe. The allure of the show is exceptional and London Fashion Week continues to be the top fashion event pulling visitors from every corner of the globe. London Fashion Week has been running twice yearly since 1983 and has since become one of the most exciting, creative and coveted events in the world. For more information about London Fashion Week including up-to-date schedules, news, and tickets go to londonfashionweek.co.uk Follow on @LondonFashionWk and join the conversation. #LFW Fashion Show Live SS22
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FEBRUARY 2022 59
FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y
[NEWS]
FASHION & BEAUTY PRETTY PRINT Ornately framed portraits of family dogs, rococo side chairs, humped back sofas, ornate bouquets influenced by floral designer Constance Spry and gilt pier glasses. roryhutton.co.uk
WE LOVE This Anya Belle 9ct Yellow Gold 3 Cluster Ring. ramsdensjewellery.co.uk
WINTER WARMERS Welligogs’ Harley Gilet deviates from their traditional gilets, flaunting a British quilted wax and beautifully contrasting moleskin features. The fabric is water-resistant, windproof and breathable making it perfect for the outdoors. We also love this traditional Richmond Wax Trench coat, made in England. welligogs.com
SHAKE UP YOUR STYLE Shake up your style this summer (if it ever gets here!) with a bespoke statement hair accessory from Wild Vanilla Studios. Handmade in London, this newly launched collection of delicate and playful pieces will add the finishing touch to any outfit. wildvanillastudios.co.uk
FIT FOR A QUEEN Bring a touch of royal glamour to your makeup routine with this crown embroidered cosmetics bag. Made with royal purple plush fabric and gold metallic detailing. shop.westminster-abbey.org 1 UA 6 80 0 FFEEBBRR U AR RYY 2 20 02 22 2
LOVE HEARTS With the striking heart print against a dusky pink background there are endless styling opportunities with this stunning blouse. mimisedit.co.uk
FASHION, FA S H I O N &HEALTH B E AU T Y& BEAUTY
Headmasters
COLOUR TIPS F
eel your best this spring and update or refresh your colour. Headmasters 50% colour sale available on all colour services from the 5th of February until the 5th of March. Sian Quinn Headmasters Colour Ambassador provides us with her tops tips to ensure your colour is helping you look and feel confident.
FACE CONTOUR For clients that would like an introduction to colour a current trend that is all over Instagram and is known by the terms such as Face Framing, Hair Contour, and the money piece. Your Stylist will select a few key pieces around your hairline and carefully balayage them to help lighten and brighten your facial features.
FRENCH BALAYAGE At Headmasters every colour is bespoke, using a combination of balayage and foils your colourist will hand paint ribbons of colour to imitate where the sun would naturally highlight hair. This provides an effortless sun kissed look. The beauty of this technique is that it adds depth and dimension to hair, so it works with all hair lengths from a chic bob to long hair. Top tip to maintain your balayage using a purple shampoo such as Olaplex 4p will repair the hair bonds from colouring whilst the purple effect will neutralise any unwanted brassy tones.
DARK AND DEEP BRUNETTES Everyone dreams of glossy hair but how do you achieve it? Many clients are wanting that dark rich glossy brunette style that makes a statement. Deep dark tones are making a comeback celebrity such as Kourtney Kardashian, Megan 62 FEBRUARY 2022
Foxx and Katy Perry are opting for intense dark brunette shades whilst maintaining a healthy look. To achieve this look Sian suggests opting for a Glossing service this provides hair with subtle colouring and conditioning treatment.
HOW TO GET YOUR COLOUR TO LAST LONGER To give your hair a luxury look Headmasters Colour Ambassador Sian Quinn recommends the new Loreal Professional Metal Detox in salon treatment £14. This will help to remove the excess copper build up from hair caused by factors such a build-up of minerals and copper found in Hard Water. Having the in-salon treatment will allow colour results to be healthier, prevent breakage and will help the colour results to last longer.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Headmasters are renowned for creating beautiful, confidence boosting hair in their 54 salons located across London and the South-east of England. Seeing over 10,000 clients a week they are perfectly placed to identify upcoming consumer hair trends. headmasters.com
FASHION,&HEALTH FASHION BEAUTY& BEAUTY
Best of beauty
These fan favourites deserve to keep a place in your daily routine, By Katie Wright
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Lush Lashes Black Mascara, £15.50 Better known for bath bombs, Lush is proving it’s a force to be reckoned with in the make-up department, with this incredible mascara. The jet black formula is the perfect consistency (it clings to your lashes and dries fast), while the wand’s tiny teeth separate, define and lengthen your lashes.
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Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser SPF30, £33, Boots OK, this is not strictly a new product, but Nars extended the range of its Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser from six to 16 shades in 2021, meaning more people can now discover this iconic product, which fans love for its glowy, ‘your skin but better’ coverage.
Glossier Ultralip in Villa, £14 Trust beauty behemoth Glossier to conquer the lip gloss game with this triplethreat lippie, which delivers moisture, colour and shine. The 2021 answer to the ever-popular Generation G matte lipstick, Ultralip is enriched with hyaluronic acid and comes in nine wearable shades.
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Bad Habit Omzzz Acai Nightly Cleansing Balm, £18, ASOS If you haven’t yet swapped your moisturestripping foaming face wash for a cleansing balm, what are you waiting for? Apply this bestseller from Morphe’s spin-off skincare line directly onto dry skin, then add water and watch it melt away your make-up, leaving a clean, smooth, hydrated complexion. 16 94 4 FFEEB BR RU UA ARRYY 2 02 2022 2
Cloud Nine The Cordless Iron Pro, £349 The beauty equivalent of a camel coat, this high-tech hair gadget is a real investment piece. The first cordless tool from Cloud Nine heats up to 170ºC, has a vibrating function for extra straightening power, and comes with lots of extras, including a faux leather box, roll bag, travel case, heat guard, charging pod, two extra plug adaptors, and (if you buy it right now) a pair of wireless ear pods.
5 Hourglass Curator Refillable Palette with 3 Eyeshadow Refills, £96 A more sustainable alternative to ready-made eyeshadow collections (because no-one ever uses all the shades equally, do they?), Hourglass Curator palettes are made from tin and post-consumer plastic and come in one, three and five-pan sizes. Choose from 40 high-quality shades in matte, satin, metallic and shimmer finishes to build your perfect palette.
Vichy Capital Soleil UV-Age Daily, £15.75 (was £21), Boots Every beauty buff knows SPF is a daily essential. But finding a sunscreen you want to wear every day? Not easy. This skin/ suncare hybrid protects against pollution, UVA and UVB rays while delivering vitamin E, peptides and niacinamide, all in an ultra lightweight fluid that soaks into your skin in seconds.
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Home from Home AT EMERSON PARK RETIREMENT VILLAGE & CARE HOME
Our family home represents familiar comforts, independence and privacy which is why the prospect of moving into a care home is one of the most difficult decisions that an older person faces in their lifetime.
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omecare can be the obvious and least restrictive solution when someone needs extra help, but family members need to assess how safe it really is for an older relative to remain at home with long periods of time between support visits, a risk of falls, a fear of unwanted callers and escalating heating costs. A loved one can be clinging onto the past at the expense of an increasingly limited social life possibly leading to loneliness and depression. Emerson Park is a state-of-the-art retirement village in Hextable which includes a selection of luxury retirement apartments where people can live independently whilst the on-site care home, Emerson Grange, provides exemplary nursing, residential and dementia care and the opportunity for short respite stays for those people who need extra support. Emerson Grange provides round-the-clock expert care giving people peace of mind that someone is always there to help and the highly trained team works in a cycle so that they are always fresh and energised. There are delicious menus of fresh, home-cooked food with plenty of choice to promote good health together with a programme of engaging
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activities to reflect the residents’ interests and hobbies and encourage companionship. Independent care home review website Carehome. co.uk, known as the ‘Tripadvisor for care homes’, is based entirely on reviews by the residents and families who actually use the service. One relative comments “The care and attention to my mother’s needs at Emerson Grange are first class which really puts my mind at rest. The staff feel like an extended new family.”
The care and attention to my mother’s needs are first class which really puts my mind at rest
THE DETAILS Emerson Park Living at Emerson Grange or Emerson Park can be a real ‘home from home’ experience so to discover more and arrange a personalised tour, call the team now on 01322 515414 or visit www.cinnamoncc.com/emersonpark
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
How a home visit transformed my life. Assisted living has been a popular lifestyle choice for many years, and it’s not hard to see why. Security, freedom, new friends and a fresh start are all enticing reasons to make the move. Bill, a new Birchgrove resident tells us more.
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lthough it can be a little daunting, there are numerous reasons why living in a self-contained assisted living apartment is such a positive experience for so many. Not as mobile as he once had been, Bill was delighted when one of the Birchgrove retirement advisors took Birchgrove to him… “I was living alone in Kingston during the lockdown and only one neighbour offered me any help. She was a lovely person with two kids, but she was the only one. And I’d been living there 38 years. “I saw an article in my local paper, so I emailed to find out more. When the sales lady got in touch, we had a chat, and she offered to visit me at home to
I find the people here so very lovely. Everyone is so welcoming and helpful.
make things easier for me. The visit was a great way to help me find out more about living in a retirement community whilst in the comfort of my own home. While chatting, she sensed I was keen, so she offered to pick me up and take me to Sidcup to have a look around Queensgate Apartments in person, which was great. They even gave me lunch, and I sat with the team and got to meet some of the other residents. I find the people here so very lovely. Everyone is so welcoming and helpful. 68 FEBRUARY 2022
“I moved in on 11th November and I haven’t looked back since. It’s great living here. I’ve got fewer worries. Where I was, I couldn’t keep on top of the upkeep of the house or garden; it was all getting overgrown. Here I don’t have to worry about anything anymore – paying for gas, electricity, water, or any of that. “It’s a strange thing if you think about it. You don’t realise how isolated and lonely you have become and how much difference it makes to see and be around people until you come here. It’s taken me time to get used to it, but I am easing in gently. Yes, moving here has helped me regain my independence but what I am really touched by, are the social opportunities that have given me a whole new lease of life.” Birchgrove’s high quality self-contained apartments are beautifully designed for people in later life. They are smart, comfortable, light and secure. Great for socialising in, but just as good for relaxing in too. Because our apartments are not for sale, you’ll find our retirement advisors are not trying to sell you anything, rather they are there to help you consider your options. Our intention is to act as a guide for you whilst you’re making your own choices about how and where you want to live. Often this is best done by coming to visit you at home to listen to what is important to you, instead of showing you what we think you need. There’s a Birchgrove retirement community at Queensgate Apartments, Sidcup, Woodbank Apartments, Woking and Lower Mill Apartments, Ewell which opens in the spring.
Because our apartments are not for sale, you’ll find our retirement advisors are not trying to sell you anything, rather they are there to help you consider your options.
THE DETAILS Birchgrove To find out more, please contact the team on 020 3929 5599 or visit www.birchgrove.life
FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
The Olive Tree Bistro & Tearoom In June 2021, Hospices of Hope were delighted to be joined by local Sevenoaks resident, Gloria Hunniford, who officially opened their newly refurbished bistro and tearoom, The Olive Tree. Image: Russell Harper Photography
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ocated on Otford high street to the back of the Hospices of Hope charity shop, the bistro boasts a deliciously varied menu including brunch dishes, healthy lunch options and of course, a wonderful array of cakes. All are cooked or baked on site by staff and volunteers and all profits directly benefit the work the charity does - pioneering the development of free hospice care in South East Europe. The pandemic had forced the closure of the charity’s former tearooms, but presented the opportunity to refurbish the premises to the magnificent standard they are today, with the help of supporters and anonymous donors. The light, open space seats up to fifty and in addition, has access to a secluded outdoor heated patio – perfect to sit out all year round.
To find out more and to book any of these special events please call 01959 525110 or visit www. hospicesofhope.co.uk/events. To stay up to date, follow @theolivetreeotford on social media or visit www.hospicesofhope.co.uk/events – more to be announced very soon. The Olive Tree is open seven days a week for breakfast, brunch, lunch or coffee and sweet treats. Walk-ins are welcome and tables can be booked by calling 01959 524322. 70 FEBRUARY 2022
This Spring The Olive Tree is offering: Mother’s Day Brunch or Afternoon Tea with live music £25 per person on Sunday 27th March (takeaway option also available) Easter Celebration Afternoon Tea with live music £25 per person on Sunday 17th April (takeaway option also available) Gin Tasting with Greensand Ridge Distillery £20 per person on Thursday 21st April
Images: Blue Square Management
The light, open space seats up to fifty and in addition, has access to a secluded outdoor heated patio – perfect to sit out all year round
01797 226 478 portraitkitchens.co.uk SHOWROOM: 53A CINQUE PORTS STREET RYE, EAST SUSSEX. TN31 7AN
HOUSE &
GARDEN – Keep it local for everything house and home – I MAGE: STONEHAM KITC HENS
HOUSE & GARDEN
KITCHEN
TRENDS
FOR 2022 If you are planning on getting a new kitchen this year and want to know what is going to be popular in kitchen design, now is the perfect time to do your research.
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t Stoneham Kitchens we’ve been doing our own based on the requests from customers and have put together the top kitchen trends that will be a big hit
in 2022. Bold is beautiful Blues and greens have been popular shades in kitchen design over the past couple of years but this year it will be all about bold and earthy tones. Think forest green and navy as well as sleek black. Burgundy will be one of the latest additions to the kitchen colour palette. If you are not brave enough to go all out with your cabinets, then try adding a pop of colour, such as on your kitchen island to make a statement in your room. Wonderful walnut While painted cabinets continue to be popular, we are now seeing more customers wanting a natural feel in their home with the use of wood. Walnut is a particular wood that is on the rise. Not only do the rich grains give a natural warmth, but the dark tones provide an instant sense of luxury. The kitchen office Covid-19 paved the way for the home office as the nation had no choice but to work from home. We’ve seen this trend continue with more requests for kitchens that double up as offices. These areas which can be built into your kitchen unit to create a zoned office space include things such as pop-up plugs, charging drawers and filing drawers with lockable options. 74 FEBRUARY 2022
For those who enjoy entertaining, bars will be a musthave storage space, which suits both compact and large kitchens
popularity with our customers with a sheet of clear glass that is only visible when in use. This also comes with dimmable LED light to highlight the glass and looks particularly impressive at night. Raising the bar For those who enjoy entertaining, bars will be a must-have storage space, which suits both compact and large kitchens. Customised for your needs, bar cabinets can include shelving to display glassware, crafted bottle drawers for fine wines and built-in chopping boards. The pantry bar also has different door options including pocket doors, glass doors and doors with sleek back mirror panelling. On top of this we have also seen a request for wine coolers built into worktops which works really well on islands and table booths.
Functional drawers While the external aesthetics of your cabinets are important, what happens on the inside should be higher up your list of priorities to ensure your kitchen functions in the best possible way. Drawer storage and its features have come a long way from being just an empty space. The latest developments include charging drawers with power sockets to charge up your phone or tablet, bespoke spice drawers, Nespresso capsule drawers and wine drawers.
Pantry living No kitchen is complete without a pantry cupboard, which has gained momentum over the past year. This will remain a ‘must-have’ for modern living. Pantries allow everything to be in one place providing plenty of drawers, shelving, spice racks built into the doors, timber trays and built-in chopping boards. Keeping your food goods organised, the pantry is definitely worth considering for your new kitchen. Premium handles This may seem a small detail to think about but little touches such as handles can make a big impact on your kitchen design. This year you’ll see a whole range of premium handles to choose from including those with tactile milled surfaces in bronze, nickel, chrome, steel and black that will add a luxurious finish to your kitchen cabinets.
THE DETAILS Stoneham Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA14 5DZ T: 020 8300 8181 E: kitchens@stoneham.plc.uk stoneham-kitchens.co.uk
The zoned kitchen Open-plan living continues to be popular and we don’t see this changing any time soon, however there is now a need to create specific zoned areas within an open-plan setting. Divisions and areas can be zoned off in a number of ways by using indoor herb planters, screens, freestanding furniture and peninsular islands. These options are easy to incorporate into your kitchen design without having to break up the space with a wall. Smart tech The latest tech in the kitchen is minimal, modern and very smart. For 2022 we’ll see a rise in the popularity of smart ovens that suggest recipes, temperatures and steam levels and smart fridges with WIFI connection and internal cameras. Instant hot water taps that also provide carbonated and chilled water will continue to dominate and hobs with built-in extractors will be a favourite for this year. The latest Siemens downdraft extractor is gaining FEBRUARY 2022 75
HOUSE & GARDEN
WELCOME TO
THE ENGLISH
CHIMNEYPIECE
Are you looking for wood burning stove or bespoke fireplaces in Kent? If you are then let The English Chimneypiece be your number one choice today.
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e can offer you both modern and classical style fireplaces, wood burning and multi fuel stoves that meet your every specification so you can be sure that, whatever it is you want, we are the perfect company for you Wood Burning, Multi Fuel Stoves and Fire Surrounds in Sevenoaks Our team are hugely experienced, with our business having been trading for over 20 years now, and so you can rest assured that you will receive workmanship of only the highest quality. We pride ourselves on our close attention to detail which means every job receives our 100% dedication, along with our first rate customer care, where we put you and your requirements ahead of everything else. Such is our vast level of experience, we are able to provide you with a huge range of services such as: • Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves • Bespoke Fireplaces and Surrounds • Restoration and Reproduction of Fireplaces • Gas and Electric Fires Which are available in a wide range of top quality materials like stone, marble, granite, slate, wood and cast iron. 76 FEBRUARY 2022
Fireplaces in Sevenoaks We are HETAS registered and we employ experienced, GAS SAFE registered engineers to prove our quality and increase you peace of mind. Our staff give a professional yet friendly service and we are approachable for our clients which means we are able to work together to provide the perfect fireplace for them. Our company is based in Sevenoaks, Kent. We serve both retail and trade clients, contractors, designers and insurance companies. With free quotations available, site surveys, as well as our popular image creation service, you can be sure that you will be 100% satisfied with the finish we provide you with. Our surrounds are made in Britain, hand crafted and, if required, made to measure. Our workshop is based in Kent.
THE DETAILS The English Chimneypiece 3 St. Botolph’s Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3AJ 01732 740 811 english-chimneypiece.co.uk
HOUSE & GARDEN
Meet The Italian Brand Rewriting The Rules of Comfort Anna Howell, Chaplins Interiors Editor
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udwig Mies Van Der Rohe once said that it’s easier to design a skyscraper than a comfortable chair. After thirty years of searching, we’re inclined to agree. Skyscrapers, for all their bluster, have proven to be underwhelming overlords; kingpins in concrete jungles that offer little in the way of biodiversity. Sitting, however, is a whole other ballgame. The one we dedicate nine hours of the day to. Often without giving it much thought. And yet finding comfort in the rhythms of work and play has proven to be essential in finding any kind of equilibrium in the everyday. To paraphrase one Pierluigi Masini, it’s only when the body experiences wellbeing that the mind can ride the waves of the imagination. It’s out of this context that a truly superlative seating brand has bloomed. One that has no interest in creating just another chair. And whose meticulously-made furnishings would have given even the cynical Mies a reason to smile. Not all technology is visible to the eye. Indeed, if connectivity is anything to go by, most of the best innovations take place just out of sight. It’s the same with Gellyfoam — a patented material that introduces into contemporary living spaces the kind of softness once reserved for travelling astronauts. “It is a material that can accommodate any posture,” confirms designer Francesco Binfaré,
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“It’s out of this context that a truly superlative seating brand has bloomed. One that has no interest in creating just another chair”
correcting it with all the care of a mother tucking a child in at night.” Hyperbole aside, it’s a remarkable invention. And just one of the components that make Edra sofas the crème de la crème of comfort. Nowadays, the core collection also counts on the inclusion of Smart Cushions. Plump, technological pillows that sound like they should belong in the Metaverse, but were actually developed ten years ago in Tuscany. With a slight pressure of the hand they can rise or bend in any
direction — movements for a sofa that wants to be in sync with the way people think, rest and dream. This sense of atomised comfort is typical of EDRA’S approach to design. Before, it was the sofa, or rather the designer, that dictated how one should sit. Now, in Edra’s world, it’s the user who suggests the final form the sofa should take. On the one hand, it’s a generous gesture. But it’s also an ancient one, too. Stefano Pasqualetti wrote recently that for all its advancement, architecture remains a basic discipline, dedicated to creating a relatable space that puts men and women at the centre of their own experience. This ability to put people first or “build to human” is easily the greatest talent of Edra. Through a mix of sumptuous, enticing designs, they seek to understand people in their chosen place. Without ever having to sacrifice on the beauty, aspiration or quality that makes the label Made in Italy great. chaplins.co.uk
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HOUSE & GARDEN
Home Cinema Lighting Design Home cinema lighting can make or break the atmosphere and experience in your home cinema room. That is why it is very important to carefully consider what type of lighting you should have installed.
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home cinema room should be dark enough to not distract from or upset the image projected but also bright enough for you to navigate out of the room without tripping over the dog. Many home cinemas have “house lights”, commonly these are your standard LED downlights which can be switched on when you want to clean the room or use for other purposes other than watching films. In this article, we detail the home cinema lighting we at Lake Home commonly install. Not every solution is right for every customer. We highly advise getting a consultation with a home cinema expert to help you choose the right lighting design for you. Starlight Ceiling Possibly the most popular home cinema lighting design we install. Starlight ceilings use fibre optics to create pinpoint lights to form a starfield on your ceiling. Starlights add that ‘wow’ factor to your home cinema and are perfect for watching films as they do not distract the viewer and the projection image. They don’t however, provide enough light suitable for navigation in and out of the room so an additional light source is recommended. Stair Lighting Similar to what you will see in a cinema, under step lighting allows you and your guests to see where the steps are and also provide some ambient lighting 80 FEBRUARY 2022
too. These lights can easily be dimmed or turned up depending on the situation and can be bright enough for all situations. LED Downlights Although a pretty standard affair, LED downlights are ideal for many situations in a home cinema. They can be dimmed to a very low level so they do not distract and can be turned up for navigation around the room and cleaning. Some LED light fittings available can also be colour changing, allowing you to set the mood however you want. Cove Lighting Cove lighting creates a fantastic effect of a light beam surrounding your room. An LED strip is installed around the cove of the room which creates a great effect of height as well as ambient lighting. In a lot of cases, the LED strip features colour changing abilities so you can set the mood just right. Lighting Control Systems A lighting control system is essential to your home cinema. Without some form of intelligent lighting system, you will have to jump from your seat every time you want to dim or switch on lights. Lighting control systems allow you to sit back and relax, controlling your lighting either by automation: For example when a film starts the lights dim automatically, or by some form of remote control such as a smart device or smart assistant speaker.
A home cinema room should be dark enough to not distract from the image projected but also bright enough for you to navigate out of the room without tripping over the dog.
THE DETAILS Lake Home If you have any questions about lighting design or lighting control Lake Home are always on hand to help. 01732 758985 www.lakehome.co.uk
Experts in Home Cinema Installation & Technology Indoor & Outdoor AV, Control Systems and Lighting
01732 758985
www.lakehome.co.uk
GARDEN HHOUSE O U S E && G ARDEN
Design Storey
Kate Watson-Smyth shares styling tips The interiors author and Mad About The House blogger has launched a new home edit-store. She tells Sam Wylie-Harris all about it.
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fter 20 years of writing about interiors and sharing her passion for styling homes through her award-winning blog, Mad About The House, Kate Watson-Smyth is taking her expertise to the next level – with a décor hub that does all the hard work for you. “I had the idea for Design Storey (designstorey. shop) a year ago, and then the pandemic happened. And it feels even more right now, because we’ve all pivoted to online shopping, like it or not,” says Watson-Smyth. “Yet there’s so much stuff out there – my job is to wander through the corridors of the internet looking for nice stuff to put on the blog.” The result is an online interiors store with a really tight edit of 50 of the best of each product, to help narrow down your search. “So it’s that idea of saying: ‘Do you know what, I will edit the internet for you. I will find you the best stuff, whether it’s filleting through a massive department store or sight like La Redoute, smaller brands, and hopefully bringing some new designers to your attention – and I will find you the best ones’,” Watson-Smyth explains. Fun, creative and with a brilliant eye for detail, she’s realised with the ongoing restrictions and people desperately trying to create space for a home office (or homeschooling), they don’t want to spend all day looking for a desk lamp: “They just want a really nice one – so they can go back to work, or whatever they were doing.” Each ’50 of the best’ collection on Design Storey 2 212022 8 02 8 FM EA BR RCUHA 2R0Y
is arranged over five pages, with no more than 10 on a page. “You can look through five pages at the bus stop – should you ever go to a bus stop again, or while waiting for the kettle to boil,” she says. And if the specific thing you’re searching for isn’t in that desk lamp parameter? “You can go and look at table lamps, or floor lamps, which are great for working from home, because they give you more space on your desk.” Making homewares more accessible than ever, with styling tips and advice to engage your interest, expect fun finds, new designs, as well as classics that hold their value – rather than ‘fast furniture’. “We’ve had this moment in fashion where we’re understanding fast fashion is not a good thing, and that notion is coming to interiors,” she continues. “Where now you might have to spend a little bit more, but you’re going to buy it once, and buy it right.”
HERE, WATSON-SMYTH SHARES KEY PIECES TO STYLE UP YOUR SPACE… Amara Bloomingville Face Glass Vase – Brown, £42 (other items from a selection or part of room set), Design Storey “The Seventies called and they want their smoked glass back… This is a growing trend and whether you buy original vintage or modern pieces, it looks good in any style of interior,” says WatsonSmyth. “This will look as good filled with flowers or faux eucalyptus as it does empty, so it earns its place in your room and won’t take up precious cupboard space.”
Lights & Lamps Nola – 1 Light Matt Black and Brass Table Lamp, £52, Design Storey “If your work-from-home space is lodging in a corner of the sitting room, kitchen or bedroom, you want a desk light that will work in all situations. This elegantly styled lamp can be angled to shine directly onto your desk, or turned to face the wall, where it will allow the light to glow gently back at you.” Style Tip: “Face your lamp forwards for work, and backwards to signify the end of the working day.”
Style Tip: “I love a big statement vase on the shelf and the sculptured face on this makes it really fun.” Love Your Home Ottilie Modern Sofa in Turmeric Mohair, from £1,748 (other items from a selection or part of room set) “The key to making a small room look bigger is to keep the furniture simple in style,” suggests Watson-Smyth. “This sleek little number has legs tall enough for you to see the space underneath – and the more floor you see, the larger the area will feel. Its slim arms also mean more sitting space, and its modern styling and velvet upholstery means it will work well in both modern and classic interiors.” Style Tip: “Why not consider a really bold colour for your sofa, rather than choosing a sensible plain colour and having patterned cushions? Mix it up – and have a really strong colour that makes your heart sing. After all, you’re going to be sitting on it for quite some time.”
Antipodream Bedding, items from a range of collections from various prices “After years of crisp white bedding and hotel style bedrooms, the current mood is for
something a little more rustic and relaxed – think #cottagecore. Layer up several of these patterns with their slightly vintage feel, and prepare to sleep out the rest of lockdown in style.” Style Tip: “If the colours are from the same colour palette, you can mix as many patterns as you like.” Nkuku Indigo Drop Ceramic Collection, from £11.95 each (main image) “Stripes never go out of fashion and this collection of tableware from Nkuku – which works with independent businesses, social projects and co-operatives to source Fair Trade products – you can buy as you go along. Style Tip: “With restaurants firmly off limits at the moment, it’s time to elevate your tablescaping and you can add some plain indigo pieces to mix it up a little.” Soho Home Garret Swivel Chair, from £1,495 (other items from a selection or part of room set) (above) “Boucle is everywhere at the moment, and its textured surface is perfect for curling up and getting cosy. The curved shape of this chair is part of a trend for so-called ‘fat furniture’, which is mostly about being comfortable,” says Watson-Smyth. Style Tip: “This chair will hug you in all the right places, and who doesn’t need that at the moment?” Mad About The House Planner: Your Home, Your Story by Kate Watson-Smyth is published by Pavilion.
Bisley Hideaway Wall Desk – Wooden Wall Mounted Desk, £349 (other items from a selection or part of room set) “Now that we all have multifunctional spaces, we need multifunctional furniture, and this wall-mounted desk is built to hide everything away at the end of the day. You can customise the colour of the steel back panel to go with the rest of the room, and the design includes a USB port and light too, so you’re good to go as soon as you open it up. Perfect for small spaces, as well as for teens and tweens.” Style Tip: “If you’re working from home in a small space, you can pack everything away at the end of the day – and flip your sitting room from office to cocktail lounge in a matter of seconds.” F E B R UMAARRYC H2 02 20 22 1 823 0 9
HOUSE & GARDEN
The Rain is Forecast IS YOUR ROOF SECURE?
After experiencing some mild winters could this be the year the beast strikes back? Is your flat roof ready to cope?
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re you one of 70% of home owners in the UK incorporating a mineral felt flat roof ? Mineral felt generally has a slow breakdown often allowing water ingress to cause unnecessary damage before anything can be visibly detected within the home. A failing roof & the warning signs- look for signs of cracking around the roof edge, pipes, upstands and roof lights etc. Beware of blisters on the roof surface, during colder months they can become brittle and crack. The home-owner should also be made aware that insurance companies will no longer accept any liability for any external or internal damage caused by a leaking flat roof which is over 10 years old. Further very important information: - all property owners please be aware when a flat roof is replaced there are Building Regulations that the homeowner and the contractor must comply with. Failure to comply can leave the homeowner open to major problems when selling the property. Please call for free information regarding the regulations. In 1999, High-Tech Roofing first introduced the most advanced flat roof technology to the homeowner. Protan, based in Norway, has a pedigree in the design and manufacture of water- proofing materials dating back to 1939, and producing the first roofing membrane in 1971. Protan is our preferred PVC single-ply flat roofing system and will cope with all climates, millions of square metres are installed here and abroad with a proven track record stretching over four decades. Protan is predominantly an architectspecified roofing system, winning many awards serving
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WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE OUR WINTER DISCOUNT IS AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE. the very competitive commercial sector. A High-Tech roof is dimensionally stable and solar reflective, the material is unaffected by climate change and 100% resistant to moss & algae growth. The membrane has a unique anti-slip finish allowing the roof to be walked on and is aesthetically pleasing. As it is a vapour permeable product it will never blister or become brittle and crack. High-Tech will create a 100% storm resistant watertight roof, maintenance free and guaranteed for life never to leak. We will be delighted to welcome you at our showroom located in Leigh-on-sea. This gives us the opportunity to show you first hand our superb Lifetime Guaranteed flat roofing systems. We have a variety of displays showing the glass skylights and roof lanterns offering the opportunity to view everything before you buy. We can assure you all quotations are carried outside and social distancing is being adhered to at all times. Please stay safe.
THE DETAILS Hi-Tech Roofing We welcome you come and visit us at 850 London Road, Leigh-onSea, Essex SS9 3NQ. Our opening hours are Mon to Fri 9:30am till 4:30pm and Sat 10am till 2pm. However, we do offer a service whereby we will open upon request outside of opening hours. Please call to arrange an appointment. T: 01268 856762 / 01322 517683 www.flatroofs.net
Lifetime guaranteed
Flat Roofing ime Lifetantee r Gua oved r App
WINTER OFFER
15% OFF*
100% resistant to algae & moss Free of stone chipping’s Manufactured never to blister or crack 100% maintenance free Proven in all climates Durable enough to be walked on Designed with a unique anti-slip finish Storm resistant
Another flat roof guaranteed for life High-Tech Roofing has now installed and guaranteed more than 11,000 domestic projects – every roof we install comes complete with a LIFETIME guarantee. We give the homeowner absolute peace of mind.
Installed never to leak Aesthetically pleasing
Manufactured never to blister or crack
Brochure and free sample available on request
For a Free Quotation
Are you retired? Possible savings now available
Call: 01322 517683 www.flatroofs.net *T&Cs apply. Please see our website for details on discounts. Head Office: Linden House, 30 Linden Road, Benfleet, Essex SS7 4BA
HOUSE & GARDEN
[NEWS]
INTERIORS ENCHANTE SPECKLED GOLD TEAPOT
BOMBAY DUCK MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE
We all know that Mums are superheroes, but Mother’s Day is the perfect time to make sure they know it too. Bombay Duck has prepared the ultimate Mother’s Day gift guide for you! bombayduck.com
PHULKARI DIAMONDS CUSHION RECTANGLE GOLD METALLIC
BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN Bringing the outdoors in never goes out of style with its proven ability to boost morale and positivity. The new earthy delights from Atkin & Thyme will introduce a subtle sense of nature to any scheme. atkinandthyme.co.uk
BERTIE ENAMEL FRAME 4X6IN AQUA/GOLD
POSH POOCH Of course your perfect pooch deserves a perfect perch. A gently distressed pet bed with a hand-carved wooden frame in a white-washed finish, pale pink velvet upholstery and double-piped edges. Pure princess style! frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk
ANY OCCASION GIFT CANDLE FREESIA & VIOLET MAMA
REINVENTING THE TEAL Want an interior space that exudes tranquillity with a side serving of luxury? According to the experts at eco paint specialists, Victory Colours, teal is the go-to shade. victorycolours.co.uk 86 FEBRUARY 2022
CASABLANCA EMBROIDERED POUF GOLD METALLIC
HOUSE & GARDEN
KEY SAFE SOLUTIONS
Loxal Key Safe Provides Access Solution for Holiday Homeowners.
What’s more, like all other Loxal Security products, the Face Fix Key Safe also benefits from the unique ‘IDACS’ software (Intelligent Digital Access Control System), which enables the owner of the accommodation to keep an audited record of access via Loxal’s cloud-based client management platform. This platform coupled with the new Loxal app, allows for seamless online code management and audit data retrieval, in line with the latest technical advances. The platform gives holiday accommodation owners direct access and control. “The Loxal Key Safe is fantastic for our second home in Portugal. Never having to give any of our family and friends keys is great and the weekly codes are a brilliant idea” Mrs Byrne- Sevenoaks The Face Fix Key Safe – along with Loxal’s other security products – has undergone and passed the rigorous ‘Sold Secure’ testing accreditation and earned a place on the official Police ‘Secured by Design’ register.
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ent based Digital Access Control specialist Loxal Security has created the perfect solution for holiday home lets and holiday parks across the UK, with its clever smart Key Safes. Comments Dan Delaney, Director of Loxal Security: “There are many owners of holiday homes and luxury static caravans across the UK, who opt to sub-let to friends or to provide an additional income. “However, whilst the owners of the parks are happy to let owners do this, they do not always administer the lets for them which creates a problem with access and keys. “Our ‘IDACS’ Face Fix Key Safe is the perfect solution, enabling access to the property without the need for the owner to be present to physically hand over a key.” Due to its unique locking system the key safe draws very little power meaning batteries will last between two and four years. Inside the lock box drawer, several keys and access cards can be stored including mortice lock keys. Keys are attached to the retractable wire lanyard, so the keys remain at the safe, not in someone’s pocket or removed accidentally from site.
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Face Fix Key Safe is the perfect solution, enabling access to the property without the need for the owner to be present to hand over a key
THE DETAILS Loxal Security Limited 5 Sevenoaks Business Centre, Sevenoaks, Kent. TN145DQ T:0800 9172994 www.loxalsecurity.com
SMART FACE FIX KEY SAFE VERSATILE AND SECURE ON-SITE KEY STORAGE
Smart cloud-based key storage Data and audit transfer app Sold Secure ‘Silver’ rated.
Our innovative key safe is managed via our IDACS cloud-based code management platform. Issue codes remotely from your online account from anywhere and at any time.
Secured by Design - Police approved
Give temporary access via email or a text to carers, trades, relatives, staff, temporary occupiers or paying guests and keep an up-to-date audit trail of all activity, giving you detailed information on who exactly used the safe and when.
Comprehensive audit trail
Quote ‘Kent Life Magazine’ for 10% discount
Keys are retained within the lock box on a 1.5m retractable wire lanyard Self expiring temporary codes Permanent and group codes Designed and manufactured in the UK
Loxal Security Unit 5, Sevenoaks Business Centre, Cramptons Road, Sevenoaks TN14 5DQ 0800 9172994 sales@loxalsecurity.com loxalsecurity.com
C O R N F L OW E R CAFÉ
Our rustic themed Cafe is housed in our old potting up glasshouse and has views out to the beautiful Kent hills. Having just had a kitchen update and heating added. We are the perfect place to meet friends for hot food, cakes, and coffee. With spacious areas to sit in for small groups or families. You can choose to sit in the cafe or amongst the plants in the glasshouse.
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Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.
coblandsgardencentre.co.uk Dryhill Lane, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6AA Tel: 01959 561274 All prices correct at time of going to press. While stocks last.
FOOD &
DRINK – Bringing you updates on the local food & drinks scene – IMAGE: PROC OOK
FOOD & DRINK
WINTER WHITES
to polish up the palate From straightforward delicious to seriously stunning, these are the white wines to snap up now, says Sam Wylie-Harris.
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t’s a conundrum all wine lovers face at this time of year. We love those rich, warming reds, with swathes of forest fruits to make us feel cosy and comforted. But sometimes the softly, softly approach doesn’t quite cut it as the wine you really want to drink right now. Especially when a bright blue sky beckons and, dare we say it, things are starting to brighten up. We want a fresh, crisp white to mirror the flowering snowdrops, or a rounded, fruity white to cushion our taste-buds with just the right measure of freshness to conjure a sense of ‘chalet chic’ – even if an actual ski run is a pipe dream. These are the winter whites we’re in the mood for right now…
Yealands Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Marlborough, New Zealand (£9, Asda) Green, nettly and spiked with aromas of freshly cut herbs, citrus and blackcurrant leaf, this is a zesty sauvignon with vibrant flavours of limes, gooseberries and guava in spades, balanced by a crisp minerally finish.
Edouard Delaunay ‘Septembre’ Chardonnay, Burgundy, France (£14.99 Majestic) A Burgundy blonde that’s modestly oaked and beautifully balanced, with creamy tropical fruit, bright lemony notes, a hint of hazelnut and butterscotch, while the fresh, fruity finish and whisper of white chocolate add interest. Think panfried turbot with a rich butter sauce.
Cono Sur Bicicleta Viognier 2021, Chile (£6, Tesco) The virtues of viognier are well storied – its spiritual home is Condrieu in the northern Rhône, famous for its fragrant, rich, dry whites with ripe flavours of peaches and apricots and here we have the next best thing at a fraction of the price. Full-bodied with bright acidity.
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2021, Marlborough, New Zealand (£25, Laithwaites) With its cult following, some might go as far as saying Cloudy Bay is the catalyst for our total adoration of New Zealand savvy blanc. Pure as the driven snow, what really makes this latest vintage stand out are the intense aromas of passion fruit, white peach, lemongrass and fresh lime juice, along with appealing flavours of nectarine and ripe passion fruit. 92 FEBRUARY 2022
Morrisons The Best Chenin Blanc 2020, Swartland, South Africa (£7.50, Morrisons) A beautifully fresh and friendly, fruity chenin blanc, this is a brilliant example of how South Africa’s signature grape satisfies with its baked apple and citrus flavours and hint of honey coming into play, underpinned by refreshing acidity.
FOOD & DRINK
Go and try this great dining experience Traditional cooking sit alongside contemporary cuisine
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et in Orpington’s bustling high street, Elachi is the perfect dining experience for a family celebration, a romantic dinner, or a get together with friends or work colleagues. Soft lighting radiates a warm glow through intricate, beautiful latticework screens. Perfectly laid tables, with comfortable seating, are spaced perfectly for groups, or romantic couples. Your dining experience denotes an attention to detail, which is reflected in their cuisine. Specializing in authentic Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine, all ingredients are freshly prepared in-house
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by the head chef and his specialist team. Their traditional menu sits along modern dishes to tempt your taste buds. If you can’t make up your mind from their extensive menu, Elachi’s friendly and helpful staff will advise you, or help customize dishes to suit your taste. There is certainly something for everyone for all ages on the menu at Elachi. As a huge salmon fan, the salmon tikka, makes a delightful starter. House dry mixed vegetables, mushroom and brinjal bhajis offer delicious vegan options served with hot tandoori roti. For a main dish why not try the mouth-watering goan lamb shank, full-flavoured and slow cooked in tomatoes and coriander. Something else that you won’t find on many menus in this cuisine is duck. This chef ’s recommendation, the duck honshoraj, is marinated and then cooked in medium hot aromatic spices with onions, peppers and tomatoes. Simple and beautiful. Specials run every day of the week and their all day Wednesday banquet is incredibly popular. There is also a Sunday buffet popular with families. Pop by on the way home from work or shopping to collect your meal, or if you’re too tired to leave the sofa, Elachi has a fast delivery service. Thank you to all the staff at Elchi for their warm welcome and friendly service.
There is certainly something for everyone for all ages on the menu at Elachi THE DETAILS Elachi 326 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NG For all current offers and special events, please go to www.elachiindianrestaurant.co.uk for full details, or call 01689 828800
HFOOD E A LT H& &DRINK FITNESS
PROCOOK INTRODUCES STYLISH NEW GOURMET KIRU KNIFE RANGE
GOURMET KIRU KNIFE SET 6 PIECE - £59
GOURMET KIRU KNIFE SET 4 PIECE - £39
GOURMET KIRU KNIFE SET 6 PIECE WITH STAINLESS STEEL BLOCK - £89
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rawing inspiration from Asian knife shapes, ProCook’s all-new Gourmet Kiru range is modern and unique. Translated as “cut” in Japanese, the “Kiru” range will certainly will make a statement in the kitchen of a passionate home cook. From blade to handle, Gourmet Kiru is a seamless all-steel range. Featuring sleek ergonomic handles for maximum comfort and embellished with a stylish diamond pattern for added grip, the range is as sophisticated as it is practical and pleasurable to use. Created from X30 stainless steel, all Gourmet
2 AA RY 9 46 0 FJEABNRUU R Y2 0 22 20 2 2
Kiru knives have been stone ground to an Eastern 13° angle each side for a stronger and sharper cutting edge. Each knife has a Rockwell hardness rating of 52±2 and contains 0.3% carbon to ensure the knife holds its edge for longer along with 13% chrome to ensure the knife is resistant to tarnishing. Starting from just £25, the Gourmet Kiru range offers a 10 year guarantee and will be sold in sets of three, four or six. Various storage options are also available to purchase, including a matching sleek stainless steel block, a magnetic rack and a leather wrap case. procook.co.uk
GOURMET KIRU KNIFE SET 3 PIECE - £25
OUR FAMILY TEAM ARE ABLE TO ASSIST WITH: Divorce and separation Children matters Cohabitee disputes Complex financial arrangements Pre-nuptial agreements.
01689 887 828 claire.schneck@cwj.co.uk www.cwj.co.uk
Designed for living At Stoneham, the values we’ve been building into our bespoke kitchens for the last 150 years haven’t changed. Every hand-built Stoneham kitchen fulfils its own streamlined elegance both effortlessly and exquisitely. It’s about making the very best of the best – the finest woods and natural materials, the most innovative features and latest technology, supremely crafted by the most knowing and capable hands. Appointed kitchen centres available locally and nationwide. For a colour brochure and details of the Centre most convenient to you call 020 8300 8181 or visit:
www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk Stoneham plc, Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5DZ. Factory Showroom Opening: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12 midday.