Autumn 2015 FREE

On the pumpkin trail at Emmetts Ashley Garden Jackson ’s hockey superstar

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Leisure & Tourism

18-19 Tourist Profile A family day out at Cobtree Park 24-25 Walks - Enjoy a country walk through Hollinbourne 28-29 Charity Profile - Supporting Kent based charities 31-39 With Christmas in mind - A host of ideas for the festive period

Interview

7-9 Personality profile - Ashley Jackson - one of world hockey’s hot shots Lifestyle Editor's Choice 40-41 Mind, body & soul 42-45 Senior living 11-16 A selection of hand-picked events and great days out 47-54 Homes & gardens around the county through 60-61 Motoring the autumn months 62 Competitions

Chairman: Claire Procter Covering the Mid Kent towns Editor: Stephen Eighteen Mid Kent Living is published every three months with a free circulation in Maidstone, Publishing Manager: Jo-Anne Brown Medway, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Malling, Ashford and . It is Sales Manager: Bill Brett available at selected pick-up points throughout the area including major supermarkets. Subscription copies are posted (£8 annually). Advertising Sales: Tel 01622 630330

The team Mid Kent Living is published by Mail Publications Ltd (which also publishes the Downs Mail newspaper), Forge House, Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, ME14 4DT. Tel: 01622 630330 Fax 01622 631131 email [email protected] www.downsmail.co.uk

Mid Kent Living 3 4 Mid Kent Living Prolong the magic of Christmas The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder, which must mean that Christmas is on its way. Though it may seem like only yesterday since the seasonal decorations were proudly worn by your Christmas tree and the final mince pie was consumed with stomach-bursting regret, shops, restaurants and other businesses all across Kent are busily preparing for a special end of the year. If you even remotely share the sentiment famously sung by Wizzard – ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ – there is no reason why you should restrict the fun to just a few days towards the end of December. So why not get into the spirit a little earlier this year? If so, you have come to the right place because this edition of Mid Kent Living is our largest ever pre-Christmas magazine. Couples keen to mark this special time of year with a touch of romance can treat their other half to alpaca trekking, Segway riding or even lion-feeding – without leaving the Garden of (page 33). There are pantomimes galore (page 34), a guide to coping with the cooking demands of the festive season (page 39) and a recommended walk in the to help you work off any festive excesses (24-25). Also busy at this time of year is Royal British Legion Industries – a charity based in Aylesford that provides training, support, care and employment to the armed forces community throughout Britain. Publicising this fantastic cause, which kicks off our new regular feature on charities in Kent (pages 28-29), will hopefully inspire people to dedicate some of their Christmas goodwill to those who have put their lives on the line for this country throughout the years.

All this, and much more. Editor

CRAYF D GR TRACK



               



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Mid Kent Living 5 One School, many journeys

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6 Mid Kent Living Personality profile ASHLEY’S home goal

Trying to snatch a few minutes with a sporting superstar is no mean feat. Especially when that star is Ashley Jackson, record goalscorer for Great Britain and one of world hockey’s current ‘hot shots!’ Jane Shotliff caught up with Ashley as he prepared to play in the 2015 EuroHockey Championships at the Lee Some children are said to be born with grandfather and uncle. Valley Hockey and Tennis a silver spoon in their mouths. When The Jackson family were well known Centre, at the Queen Ashley Jackson made his entrance into for their prowess on the ice and it was the world, in August 1987, he was most an accepted part of growing up for Elizabeth Olympic Park. probably presented with a hockey stick. Medway-born Ashley and his brother If not, it wasn’t long after as, by the age Wesley that most weekends were of two and a half, he was whizzing about spent supporting the teams for which was awarded by the prestigious private on the ice with his ice-hockey playing they played. school was the real driving force the teenager needed to set him on a path Ashley’s education which was to take up the majority of his began at Fairview waking hours then — just like now. Primary School, Amazingly, Ashley hadn’t wielded a Gillingham, but conventional hockey stick before when the family starting at — ice hockey moved to Tunbridge plays off the left hand as opposed to the Wells, he switched right — but his past experience and to Rose Hill techniques clearly stood him in good Preparatory School, stead as he rapidly soared into the from where he school’s hockey record books. progressed to While at SVS, he represented Kent, Sutton Valence, near South of England and England at U16 Maidstone, at 13. and then went on to represent England The sports Hockey at U21 level, while captaining the scholarship Ashley school’s 1st XI.

Mid Kent Living 7 Personality profile

Ashley clearly thrives on a challenge

Ashley was also a keen cricketer and accepted into the Kent Cricket Academy — some members of staff actually considered him to have more potential as a cricketer. However, in his final year at school, 2005, Ashley didn’t play much 1st XI cricket, having become too involved in hockey. The midfielder made his debut for one of the country’s leading hockey clubs, East Grinstead, in 2003 while just 15 and gained representative honours for England shortly after. He made his debut for the English senior side in the 2006/7 season at the Ashley’s first Olympic match was in Ashley had spent all his adult playing age of 19 and was awarded the FIH 2008, in Beijing, where the team career with East Grinstead. Young Player of the Year title three finished 5th. At the London 2012 games, Not only did he help East Grinstead years later — the first English player to they came 4th. scoop the league and championship receive this coveted accolade. He also played for the England squad titles, he also helped them to obtain the in the 2010 Commonwealth Games, European Indoor title for the 2009/10 coming fourth, and won bronze in the season. 2014 Commonwealths — so has high However, an approach from Holcombe hopes for next year’s big event. chairman David South proved too much Ashley, still only 28, trains daily with to resist.

Ashley was awarded the FIH Young Player of the Year title – the first English player to receive this coveted accolade.

England Hockey at Bisham Abbey In May, he joined several of his GB National Sports Centre, near Marlow, team-mates in the Rochester-based and has spent the past few years living club, and will make his first appearance a comfortable 15-minute commute away on the pitch for them this season. in High Wycombe, travelling to his club South is busy hoovering up some of when matches demand. hockey’s most talented players to Under his central contract to the create an A-team of GB internationals England GB team, Ashley trains from and the signings have caused quite a 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, for the stir in English hockey circles. national team, turning out possibly one Ashley, who was once dubbed the evening a week for his local club. ‘Ronaldo of hockey’, said: “It was a Until earlier this year, with the difficult decision to leave friends and exception of two years spent playing for family but it was a decision I had to take the Dutch side of HGC in the Hoofklasse, for hockey — and for business reasons.”

Holcombe’s name heralds from an old boys club at Chatham Grammar School in the Sixties; the grounds they played at, near Rochester, being called Holcombe. Originally one of six clubs in the Medway towns, Holcombe merged with three others in 2000. It now has 12 mens’ and five ladies’ teams.

8 Mid Kent Living Ashley was once dubbed the ‘Ronaldo of hockey’

another can be found wielding clubs at Sweetwoods Golf Club, Edenbridge, or the London Golf Club, in West Kingsdown, where he plays off a handicap of two. Ashley clearly thrives on a challenge and finds golf both a difficult sport but also one which is addictive. He said: “It is challenging, but a sport in which you can always be better.” Opposite: In a pensive mood — and victorious. This page, clockwise: Pictured with the SVS cricket team — front row, far right; victorious in Euro Hockey; competing in the 2012 Olympics; playing for England v South Africa.

He added: “I am looking forward to “We don’t receive much funding from Playing for the Men’s 1st X1, working with team-mates old and new UK sport and he sees this as a way of Ashley has been capped 214 at Holcombe HC, contributing to a new bringing money into the squad and times for England and Great team in the Premier League whilst nurturing full time professional hockey Britain. He wears the number 7 continuing my development as a player. players.” shirt for both England and GB, David is a lovely guy and wants the club A passionate sportsman, Ashley is reflected in his Twitter account to do as well as possible, to promote the also a keen golfer and, when not found of @ashleyjackson7 sport as a whole. on a hockey pitch of one form or

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10 Mid Kent Living Hand-picked events and great EDITOR’S Choice days out around the county.

the 100+ stalls of local and regional produce plus chefs’ 'theatre, a writers' forum, ask the expert sessions and children's activities. 10am – 5pm. Admission free. October 4 Autumn Amble Penshurst Place FREE Take in the changing colours EVENT TO of Autumn, while discovering October 4 WATCH OCTOBER local history, with a stroll Classic Car Rally, Wrotham - Hever across the stunning October 1-4 Get a glimpse of some of the county’s best Penshurst Place parkland. classic cars when the Blackpalfrey Motor Club of Tenterden Folk Festival The two hour morning Kent hits the road to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Various venues, walk, led by Estate Manager Setting out from the Moat at Wrotham Heath, 65 cars will Tenterden Ben Thomas sets off at 11am. drive through the country lanes on route to Groombridge Four days of folk, music and Following the circular walk, Place on the Kent/Sussex border for coffee before heading dance in Tenterden town visitors are served a off to Bewl Water for Lunch. A gentle afternoon ride will centre. Barn dances, delicious two-course roast finish at Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, concerts, Morris dancers, lunch by Leith’s in The for a well- earned afternoon tea by the lake. workshops, folk clubs, sing-a- Garden Restaurant. This is a chance to see a fascinating variety of rounds, music sessions, craft, With unguided admission spectacularly-polished pre-1995 vintage and veteran music and street stalls. to the house and gardens vehicles who take to the road to raise funds for charity. Weekend and individual contained within the ticket event tickets are available price, visitors can spend the Cathedral choristers, but many events are free. rest of the afternoon followed by Compline. For details check exploring the historic 14th 6.30-9.30pm. For further century house and gardens www.tenterdenfolkfestival.co.uk details visit www.canterbury- at their leisure. October 2-4 cathedral.org Tickets £28 include access October Food Festival to the house and gardens. October 10 & 11 Broadstairs Wear suitable walking Autumn Extravaganza Set in Victoria Gardens, footwear. 11am onwards. Great Comp Garden, overlooking the sea, this popular free three day food October 6 Visitors will have the Platt, near Sevenoaks festival features a range of Open Evening opportunity to try their hand The newest event in Great Kentish foods including Canterbury Cathedral at skilled crafts including Comp’s seasonal calendar, cheeses, meats, artisan A rare chance to visit the stone carving, applying gold this weekend is designed to breads, cakes and pastries, Cathedral free of charge and leaf and brass rubbing. show the garden at the all washed down with Kent enjoy visits to the private This year, there will be a height of its autumnal wines, ciders and ales. chapels, the bell tower, the special exhibition about splendour. There will be a Try out new tastes and organ loft and the choir important women in the strong focus on garden flavours, meet the producers practice room, as well as Cathedral’s history .The ornamentation, as well as and stock up with loads of enjoy free guided and audio evening will finish with a local crafts and artisan foods lovely goodies from some of tours. concert sung by the to enjoy. Admission from £6.

October 10 Puppetry Festival, Tunbridge Wells This inaugural festival — and the first of its kind in the country — brings together a programme of quality puppetry and animation events in a variety of venues across the town. Workshops and cabaret performances take place at The Forum plus a full day of free outdoor performances including Punch & Judy and other street art, local street food and crafts and puppetry stalls on The Pantiles. 10am – 9pm.

Image: Classic car rally courtesy of Steve Town Mid Kent Living 11 October 10 East Kent Brewery Open Day, Faversham As part of the green hop celebrations, five breweries in East Kent have arranged to open their doors to the public for tours, music, food and, of course, plenty of Kent green hop beers. Visit and sample the delights of Gadds, Goody Ales, Wantsum, Canterbury Ales and The Foundry Brewpub throughout the day. There is even a special bus service that will transport you from brewery to brewery. A great way of learning about beer, and a must for any amateur brewers wanting to know the tricks of the trade. www.kentgreenhopbeer.com/eastkentopenday

October 11 spooky adventures of Hansel October 24 RSPCA Big Walkies and Gretel, as they escape Medway Siege FREE Mote Park, Maidstone the clutches of the evil witch Spectacular EVENT Join us at Mote Park for the only to stumble into another Rochester biggest dog walk ever! A monstrous nightmare – the Castle Moat choice of a 3km or 5km walks Monster Mash Halloween A dramatic re-telling - with chance to meet new Party! Other activities of the great siege of doggy friends – and their include gruesome games, Rochester Castle in 1215, owners. Dogs get a special creepy crafts, fearsome face held in the moat of the bandana and humans a t-shirt. painting and devilish dancing. castle, using live action, Tickets are £10 for the first From 5pm to 8pm, your special effects and film dog and £5 for any additions. invited to step into the projection in the location Humans go free! 10.30am – Enchanted Forest as events where it actually happened. 3pm. Proceeds go to the take a darker turn for a The council received RSPCA. Register at haunting tour you'll never Heritage Lottery Funding to rspca.org.uk/ BigWalkies2015 forget... This part is advised help stage this exciting event Tickets £35.95. 10% discount for ages 12 and above and an and the inaugural October 17-18 adult must accompany for booked online. 10am-8pm. Forest of Fear – Spooky performance will be at 4pm, under-16s. October 17-18 Halloween marking the 800th For those who prefer to National Apple Festival, anniversary Groombridge Place, stay away from the woods Brogdale, Faversham of the siege. Tunbridge Wells after dark, fun craft activities The biggest and best apple Admission A chance to get into the will be on offer in another festival is back for 2015, with is free. ghoulish mood nice and early part of the grounds. around 400 apple varieties with this wander through the The event is free with October 24 & 31 on display. ‘Try before you woods where, from 10am, admission: Adults £10.95, Ghost and Gourmet buy’ the seasonal fruit. families can witness the Concessions £9.45, Family Evening Tractor, trailer and walking Ightham Mote tours of the orchards will be running while the craft and With only the flickering of produce village offers some candlelight to guide you, unique gift ideas. take this terrifying tour of Enjoy live music, local food Ightham Mote by night. Walk and entertainment. Take a through the gloom of the miniature train ride to see historic house and listen to the farm and children can the stories of its past MUSIC, inhabitants, but watch DANCE, get crafty and have their face painted in the little out...they are closer than you DRAMA, think! October 17-30 festival goer’s area. MAGIC Followed by a two course Canterbury Festival 2015 Tickets at the gate or are discounted online at supper in the tea room Opening Day Celebrations - afterwards. 7pm-10.30pm. October 17 at 12 noon, Longmarket, Canterbury High Street www.brogdalecollections.co.uk or call on 01795 536250. Tickets £37.50 per person, The streets will come alive with the sound of music and booking essential street performance, with plenty to keep the whole family October 18 on 01732 811314 entertained for the opening of this year's festival. Mote Park Wildlife Walk October 24 - FOR Music, dance, drama, magic – a packed programme of Maidstone November 1 MORE ON events, for 10 days and nights; many free. Courtesy of the Mote Park EMMETTS Halloween Visit: www.canterburyfestival.co.uk for full list. Fellowship, this guided walk See Page 26 takes visitors and locals Pumpkin around the award-winning Trail Mote Park, looking at the Emmetts Garden birds, trees and wildlife that Try to find as many spooky live there. More information things as you can to get a and booking at prize at the end. moteparkfellowship.org.uk/ev Normal admission charges ents Price £2.50 apply, £1 per trail. 10am-4pm.

12 Mid Kent Living Hand-picked events from the editor

October 25 October 27-30 October 30-31 Open Day Halloween Fun Week Fright Night Express, Mote Park Indoor Bowls Kent and East Sussex Kent and East Sussex Club, Willow Way Railway, Tenterden Railway Come and try your hand at Take part in activities Be greeted with the beat of indoor bowls – a sport for all including pumpkin carving Drum Skullz and entertained ages, genders and abilities, and face-painting. by Jacob the Fire breather. whatever the weather! All activities are included On board the train, be Look around the club, in the ticket price which prepared to be frightened enjoy a free cup of tea includes unlimited journeys silly with ghostly goings on and book your between Tenterden and at stations. There is also a place Bodiam Station on the steam firework display - and a few in four FREE and diesel trains. surprises along the way. Bowl4Free Fares £49.50 for a family, Families are encouraged sessions EVENT adults £17, children (3-15) to come in fancy dress and October 26 - as an £11.50. Trains leave booking is essential. November 1 introduction Tenterden station at 10:40am, Adults and Children aged to the club and the 11:45am, 1:15pm and 2:45pm. 3-15 inclusive: £17. Lighthouse Keeper game. 10am-5pm. Trail, South Foreland www.moteparkibc.com Lighthouse, St October 26 Margaret’s Bay, Dover Family Monday See what it was like to be a lighthouse keeper in Knole Park, Sevenoaks days gone by. A range of themed Solve the clues and help activities and crafts suitable save a troubled ship in the for ages five – 12 in the bay then fly a kite on the beautiful setting of the lawn in front of the National Trust Property lighthouse. at Knole Park. 11am-3pm, Normal admission normal admission charges charges apply, £1 per trail. apply.

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Image: South Foreland courtesy of National Trust; Halloween fun week courtesy of Kent & East Sussex Railway Mid Kent Living 13 October 31 familiar items or places, Haunted Trails, taken from a different Smallhythe Place, perspective. The aim is to Tenterden get people to focus on the Scary stories and horrible positives of what one can hauntings after dark, if you still do after sight loss — dare. 6.30pm and 7.30pm. albeit in a different way. Normal admission charges November 6-8 apply, £5 per person. Crafts for Christmas, Booking recommended Showground, on 01580 762334. Maidstone FAMILY October 31 Crafts for Christmas DAY HMS Pinafore, provides a unique OUT Mote Hall, Maidstone opportunity to find wows thousands every the Western Front in World Leisure Centre special presents for special people — the year and is a great way War I, this exhibition explores The Hospice Festival Choir perfect place to work your for families to celebrate. 7pm. his daredevil escapades at and Orchestra present this way enjoyably through your the last cavalry charge in Gilbert and Sullivan classic to November 7 - December Christmas list. military history and his raise funds for Heart of Kent 20, (every weekend), Indulge yourself, your experiences as an escaped Hospice. 7.30pm. The Dickens Country family and friends with prisoner of war. Tickets: Circle — £16.00, Experience stunning fashions and Admission to the exhibition Stalls — £12.50 and Gallery Join the fictional Elijah accessories, leather bags is free; normal admission £10.00 from 01622 790195. Puddlephat and his nemesis, and belts, dazzling jewellery fees to Chartwell apply. Mr Charles Dickens on a October 31 - from sparkly fashions to unique tour back in time. November 20 November 1 graceful diamonds. The tour lasts about two The Elvis Years Detling International Talented makers and hours and starts and finishes 1953-1977 designers, together with Antiques & Collectors at the Guildhall Museum, Hazlitt fabulous food and drink, Fair, Detling Rochester, at 10.30am and promise to fill you with Theatre, GO Showground, Maidstone 2pm (except for Dickensian Christmas spirit and get you Maidstone BACK IN Up to 400 exhibitors Christmas weekend) and in the party mood. Celebrate offering antiques, includes visiting Cobham, TIME 9am-5pm. Admission £7, the King’s collectables, vintage items Cooling, Cobham Hall, and seniors £6, students and 80th including ceramics, glass, Dickens' last home, Gads Hill children free. birthday year silver, jewellery, furniture, Place, Higham. with this concert production books, vintage clothing, and November 7 You’ll visit some of Dickens’ of the West End musical much more. Admission from Aylesford & Eccles most loved places and see Jailhouse Rock, featuring £4-£6. 10am-4pm Craft Fair, the inspiration behind some original star Mario Kombou The Brassey Rooms, of his masterpieces. and his band. NOVEMBER Station Road, Aylesford Tickets: £10, concessions: The show is packed with Time to start your Christmas £7.50 from more than 50 of Elvis’s November 3-28 www.medwayticketslive.co.uk From a Different shopping and support your greatest hits, from the early local craftsmen and women. days of ‘That’s Alright Mama’ Perspective, November 14 - 12noon-4pm. February 19 2016, through the Hollywood Maidstone Museum, years, culminating in the Maidstone November 7 Into the Trenches Chartwell, near legendary Las Vegas An exhibition of photographs Bonfire night display, concert, which featured In taken by members of Kent Great Lines Heritage Westerham the Ghetto, Suspicious Minds Association for the Blind, Park, Gillingham. To mark 100 years since Sir and American Trilogy. who have varying degrees of Be part of Medway’s annual Winston Churchill made the 7.30pm, tickets £21.50 sight loss. The images are all bonfire night. The event decision to go and fight at

November 7 Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular, near Maidstone There will be lights, camera, action with this year’s incredible fireworks timed to music from the movies. Look out for scenes from the silver screen projected onto the side of the Castle during the display!

14 Mid Kent Living Images: Autumn leaves courtesy of Megan Taylor; Leeds Castle courtesy of Leeds Castle Hand-picked events from the editor

November 21 day is £8 if you have your Come and Sing Messiah own score, £10 to include St George’s Church, score hire. For information Wrotham and a score, contact Linda at Maidstone Choral Union [email protected] welcomes anyone who wants November 27 to have a go at singing some Heart of Kent Hospice of those familiar choruses, Winter Gala Ball, including the ‘Hallelujah’. Bradbourne House, 1.45pm to 9pm. Rehearsals East Malling take place from 2.15pm to A Gatsby-inspired evening of CHRISTMAS 5.15pm with a break, then a fine dining and SHOPPING break for tea until 7.15pm. entertainment to raise funds November 28 & 29 FAMILY Concert starts at 7.30pm. for the hospice. Reception December 4-6 & 11-13 EVENT Wear a black long skirt or drinks and three-course Rochester Christmas Markets trousers with a black top for meal; live entertainment and Set in the picturesque Rochester Castle ladies, dark suit, shirt and tie charity auction. gardens, enjoy a hog roast, hot chocolate and roasted for the men — and bring a 7pm-1am. Tickets £85 from chestnuts as you browse the stalls for unique gift ideas packed tea. The cost of the [email protected] and unusual stocking fillers. 11am – 6pm.

November 28 countryside location of this Christmas Fair, lovely castle is perfect for a Chiddingstone Castle, relaxed shopping opportunity Edenbridge with many stalls selling Choose your ideal festive unique products that are not gifts from the beautifully laid found in the High Street. out stalls in the castle’s The grounds of the castle historic rooms and marquee. will be open for a peaceful Mulled wine and mince pies stroll to the Victorian will add to the seasonal Orangery or around the lake. cheer. The beautiful 10am-4pm. Admission £4. CORPUS CHRISTI HALL KENT’S BEST KEPT SECRET

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Images: Chiddingstone Christmas Market courtesy of Simon Kelsey Mid Kent Living 15 Hand-picked events from the editor

December 5, 6, 12, 13, and it was also his last. 19, 20, 22, 23, & 24 He performed it over 150 Santa Specials times and the effect on the The Kent & East Sussex public was phenomenal. This Railway, Tenterden Christmas, you can There are some exciting new experience what it must have additions to the popular been like to be in the Santa Specials this year. audience. Visitors arriving at The Hazlitt based European Tenterden station will be Arts Company is faithfully greeted by the sound of the recreating Dickens’ famous Victorian carousel and during performance of his best-loved the 70-minute journey to and most heart-warming Northiam Station, Santa story. A real seasonal treat in Claus and his elves will visit the spirit of Christmas past, everyone on the train with present and future. 7.30pm. their sacks of gifts. Tickets £13.50, concessions £11.50 GREAT Every child up to the age of DAY OUT 12 will receive a present, while those aged 13-15 receive FOR THE festive chocolates. Early KIDS booking is recommended to secure your chosen date through the website dying at Gads Hill in 1870. www.kesr.org.uk or by calling DECEMBER The streets will be alive with 01580 765155. Tickets start December 5 & 6 entertainment, readings, from £16.00 Meet Santa! song and dance. Uncover a December 12 , Sandling feast of Victorian delights, Carols by Candlelight Come and meet Santa and familiar fictional characters, All Saints Church, parades, carols, stalls and Twinkle Toes the Elf in their Maidstone magical Christmas grotto. lots of festive shopping. Maidstone Choral Union’s Craft activity and special There are lamp-lit parades, annual Christmas concert, gift for every child, and carols to be sung, Father December 20 featuring a range of well- mince pies for Mum and Dad. Christmas to be met and Family Carol Concert known favourites, plus guest 10am-3pm. even a guaranteed snowfall, Tonbridge School Chapel, performances and brass framed by Rochester’s Tonbridge December 5 & 6 accompaniment. 7.30pm. fairytale cathedral and Tonbridge Philharmonic choir, Christmas with the castle. Tickets £12. Children and Goats! students half price. conducted by Matthew Willis, Highlights include the leads this popular family Buttercups Goat Seven Poor Travellers December 18 carol concert in the Sanctuary, Boughton Procession, the Grand Hazlitt Theatre, atmospheric setting of a Monchelsea Parade, a candlelit Maidstone candlelit Tonbridge School An evening of Christmas procession, the open air A Christmas Carol was the chapel. £8 celebrations in the stables! carol concert, and roaming first public reading that Call 01732 353707 to check Help tuck in some of the 140 street performers. Charles Dickens ever gave times and/or cancellations. rescue goats at Buttercups in their warm beds of straw for the night, while feasting on mulled wine and mince pies. 4pm-7pm. Admission by donation. December 5 & 6 Dickensian Christmas Festival, Rochester Rochester’s Dickensian Christmas has been held annually since 1988, which is fitting as Medway held such a special place in Charles Dickens’ life and work. GREAT The writer spent five DAY OF of his childhood years in FAMILY Medway from 1817 to FUN 1822. He returned for the last few years of his life,

16 Mid Kent Living Images: Dickensian Festival courtesy of Simon Kelsey Advertisement feature

Mid Kent Living 17 A walk in THE PARK

If you are looking for somewhere different for a family fun day out, head to Cobtree Manor Park, Aylesford, near Maidstone.

The 50-acre park — close to the heart of our county town — has had a £1.1million make-over in recent months, with the addition of a sculpture trail, a running route and children’s play park. In fact, the fabulous face-lift earned Cobtree park its first Green Flag in 2014. As well as its fantastic open spaces, diverse collection of trees and shrubs, the charity-run recreation area now boasts a new visitor centre, along with a café. The £300,000 centre — funded by the Cobtree Charity Trust — officially opened in September to provide visitors with new toilets, a seating area and a restaurant offering hot and cold Cobtree meals, using local produce, as well as an office for the park Manor ranger. The history The park is open from 7am to dusk, visitor of the park centre and café open 10am-4pm every day Cobtree Manor Park forms part of (except Dec 25th). the Cobtree Estate, the former home of Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake (1881-1964). The 12-times mayor of Maidstone fulfilled his passion for animals by opening a zoo at the park on March 26, 1934. It was opened by the well-known circus owner Bertram Mills and attracted a string of celebrity visitors including singer and actress Gracie Fields. The zoo programme from 1939 lists 36 kinds of animals, including bears, camels, cheetahs, chimpanzees, kangaroos, lions, zebras, a stud of cream ponies (one of only two in the country) and two elephants named Gert and Daisy. There were also pony and elephant rides; a miniature railway with a petrol powered “steam engine” and two carriages ran on tracks along the carriage drive, saving visitors the walk from The visitor centre’s walls carry the fascinating history of the the main road to the zoo. park and its founder, Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, who opened a zoo, which attracted thousands of visitors and celebrities during its 25 years open to the public, before being bequeathed to the town. Today, the park attracts more than a quarter of a million visitors each year, as an excellent base for further adventures in the area, to access the popular Way or simply to walk, go running, or to exercise the dog and the children. Its play area, which takes the theme of the park’s famous zoo, has proved particularly popular, as has the sculpture trail, which was designed and crafted by Kent artist Jason Mulligan. Admission to the park is free, while parking is £1.50 for the whole day. And while you are there, why not pop along to Aylesford? This charming village, with its stone bridge over the river, has shops, a , places to eat and some beautiful buildings, as well as the working friary at the top of the hill, which is also open to the public.

18 Mid Kent Living Coming up: Cobtree Arboretum in the autumn Wednesday, October 21 and Sunday, October 25, 10am-noon An informative seasonal ramble with the ranger through the park’s rich collection of trees from around the world. Free for all the family. No need to book. Making bird feeders and nesting boxes Wednesday, October 29, 10am-11.30am Learn how to help the birds survive the winter months. A Find practical event, with participation. it at: Today, the elephant house is all that benefit of the Forstal Road, Free for all the family. Booking remains and is currently used by the inhabitants Maidstone, Kent required on 07870 988128 or active retired as part of the nation-wide of Maidstone and M20 7AG elizabethbuckingham@maidstone. men’s sheds initiative. the surrounding gov.uk The zoo opened to the public from neighbourhood”. Rustic Christmas decoration March to October for 25 years, before The estate, which includes Cobtree Monday, December 21, 10am-noon rising costs and the deteriorating health Manor Park, Cobtree Golf Course, the A chance for you and your family of Sir Tyrwhitt-Drake forced its closure headquarters of Kent Wildlife Trust to create your own Christmas in 1959, with most of the animals (Tyland Barn) and the Kent Life decorations, which you can take dispersed to other zoos. museum, is now managed by Maidstone home. £3 per person. Booking In 1980, a ‘parkland garden’ was Council for the Cobtree Manor Estate required on created at Cobtree, with nearly 600 Trust. 03000 different trees and shrubs planted in a The trust’s chairman Roger Hext said: 414793. landscape setting, some of which fell in “The recent improvements have made the violent storms of 1987 and 1990, sure that the park is one of the with others righted with winches and borough’s most beautiful and popular steel ropes. Today, the surviving trees attractions, and the new visitor centre form a maturing arboretum of at least is the finishing touch. It is a fitting 160 species. tribute to the memory of Sir Garrard Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake and his who I am sure would have been very wife, Lady Edna, established the proud of what has been achieved in the Cobtree Trust in 1951 to secure the park and will give so much pleasure to future of their 300-acre estate “for the the people of Maidstone.”

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Mid Kent Living 21 Discover more at Newnham Court Shopping Village

Be sure to visit this autumn – there is something for everyone

Notcutts Garden Centre forms a central point of the Shopping Village and as you would expect has one of the most comprehensive ranges of top quality plants and gardening equipment as well as everything you need to help you relax and enjoy your garden or patio. Gardening can play a key role in the health and happiness of us all, whilst at the same time doing our bit for the planet. When everything else in life seems to flash by at 100 miles per hour, gardening gives us all the chance to breathe, forget the frantic pace of life and indulge in a little peace and quiet. Keen gardeners should consider joining the Notcutts Privilege Club where you can save money every time you shop at Notcutts. It costs just £10 a year and there are lots of benefits including 10% off your bill (some exclusions apply) each time you shop.

PETS AND AQUATICS From the most popular domestic to the exotic, Ark Pets & Aquatics stocks a wide range of equipment, food, accessories and toys for your pet. Their friendly staff have a great deal of expert knowledge so they can help and advise you on choosing a pet and how to care for this new member of your family. Small mammals, parrots and other birds are a speciality. Plus there are more than 400 aquariums of tropical, freshwater and marine fish.

CHARTERWOOD MOBILITY DISCOVER THE KLASS PENNIES DAY NURSERY AND SHOPMOBILITY COLLECTION Pennies Day Nursery offers 'the very best Get some great offers on a huge selection Klass have a stunning range of affordable in childcare learning and fun' for children of mobility scooters, rise and recline chairs, women’s fashion in sizes 10 to 22. aged between three months and five stairlifts, walkers, bathing aids and much Whether you are looking for ladies years old plus Breakfast, After School and more. The largest choice in the south east at evening wear or casual daywear outfits Holiday Clubs for primary age children. unbeatable prices. Now available – you can be sure to get the perfect outfit. Pennies is a family run nursery with over Shopmobility is a free service to visitors to Shop the latest dresses, tops and blouses, 25 years of experience in childcare and Newnham Court Shopping Village who are knitwear, jackets, trousers and skirts plus a provides a wide range of exciting activities. mobility impaired. To book a wheelchair or coordinated range of accessories. Parents describe the nursery as ‘welcoming, powered scooter, call us on 01622 631511. bright and colourful, echoing with the sound of happy children.' Visit our website www.newnhamcourt.co.uk Free Parking

JUST OFF JUNCTION 7 OF THE M20 AT MAIDSTONE • MONDAY TO SATURDAY – 9:00AM TO 6:00PM • SUNDAY 10:30AM TO 4:30PM SHOPMOBILITY: 01622 631511

FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY If it’s a bit of personal pampering you seek then look no further than Pure Hairdressing and Pure Beauty Essentials. You are sure to receive personal attention plus the latest hair care and beauty advice. Pure Beauty Essentials which sits alongside the hair salon offers a range of must have beauty treatments and due to popular demand is now open on Sundays. Other shops to tempt you along the way include Edinburgh Woollen Mill with a wide range of clothing for ladies and men plus many accessories including Hotter Shoes. Cotton Traders offers a further range of quality clothing at great value in a wide range of sizes. Cotswold Outdoor are suppliers of equipment for outdoor activities such as camping, walking and mountaineering. Then there is sports clothing and equipment at Sweatshop Sports Shop, specialists in running.

FOR THE HOME Fineline Windows, Doors & Conservatories AHM Bathing specialise in walk-in baths Hammonds fitted bedrooms are a offer a complete range of windows, doors, and walk-in showers for the elderly and popular choice with those looking to conservatories and orangeries of the highest disabled. Plus there is a great range for refurbish their bedroom space this quality. Also log cabins and chalets from those wanting non mobility bathrooms with autumn. They offer the largest range of Johnsons Garden Buildings, perfect for a contemporary look. fitted bedrooms in the UK to choose creating extra space for a home office, gym from plus they offer a free creative If you are looking for the perfect gift or or a playroom. design service with detailed 3D something special for the home then drawings as standard. The friendly Is your kitchen looking tired or in need of Notcutts Gift Shop is the place for you. family business has excelled by giving its sprucing up? If you want stylish, functional From kitchen accessories and gifts to customers exceptional quality and truly and comfortable without the mess then pay artificial flowers and vases to display them in personal service and by doing things Granite Transformations a visit. Their plus there is a great range of greetings with a little more style. unique, maintenance free worktops are cards and gift wrap too. available in 55 colours.

RELAX AND TAKE A BREAK Be sure to leave enough time to meet up with friends in one of our friendly eateries. The newly refurbished Coffee Corner is open for breakfast, morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. Whether you want a full meal, a snack or just a cup of tea or coffee, you are sure of a warm welcome and good service. Alternatively enjoy fresh barista made coffee in Bricks Coffee House in the courtyard, from skinny latte and cappuccino to Americano. It is open every day, offering a relaxed atmosphere in comfortable surroundings.

Noble House is a magnificent Chinese restaurant specialising in oriental cuisine where customers savour all the specialities of classic Cantonese and Peking dishes. Its sheer class and opulence set it apart creating an atmosphere will that will take you into a different world. Be it an intimate dinner for just two, or large functions and parties, the restaurant caters for everyone. There’s room to enjoy your evening so you can chat and spend time with family and friends. The popular restaurant is known for prompt and friendly service and also offers a quality takeaway service.

Find Visit our website www.newnhamcourt.co.uk us on: EAST Walk The village of Hollingbourne is nestled just below the beautiful North Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just five miles from Maidstone, this walk is the perfect way to escape busy life to enjoy some amazing countryside and experience several fantastic views. The walk takes you through parts of the extremely rare ancient woodland of Britain which has remained untouched for hundreds of years and probably existed prior to human settlement.

The walk starts at Hollingbourne Station, so is highly accessible by train. Walk to the left of the station and up a footpath that climbs a bank. Cross the stile and head right. Once you reach a field, bear left across it towards a stile. ! Start/Finish Cross it, and walk along the field edge 8miles (12.8km) and then in between two hedges. Follow this path over another stile. When you Gate reach a road turn right and then at the

T-junction turn left on to Musket Lane. Stile This will bring you to the small hamlet © Crown Copyright and database j right 2015 of Eyhorne Street. The word ‘street’ in 100019238 its name suggests it was located along a Roman road, and therefore the settlement must date back to this time. Once you reach another T-junction, turn left and then take the footpath j down the side of the Windmill pub. As you come to a large, modern barn bear left and go through the field gate behind it. Continue along the path until you reach a waymarker post. Then walk diagonally across the field towards large tree. Cross the stile and turn right j following the path into a garden. Keep right and cross another stile. Head

straight on, before bearing left and ! crossing a stile into another garden. j Leave it by crossing a stile onto a small bridge. Follow the field edge on your left before heading towards an arch under 00.51 the railway. Pass through it and then Km over the stile and up a driveway. 0 Miles Cross the road and continue on the 00.5 footpath. When you reach another road, turn right and then left down Greenway Court Road. Head right and follow the road until you reach a byway on your tracks off to the left, take the second to sit in bunkers through an invasion left. Follow the byway until you reach a one. As you walk uphill stop to look at and then emerge behind enemy lines. T-junction where you should turn right, the amazing views of the beautiful They were recruited in utmost secrecy joining the . You countryside below. and were likely to be farmers who had a should then reach a junction with two When the path divides, head left detailed knowledge of the area. through woodland. Follow the byway When you reach a road turn left and along the edge of the wood and then continue on the byway to the right Location: Hollingbourne (ME17 1TX) across a field between two fences. After through two sections of woodland. Distance: 8 miles (12.8 km) a short distance you will come to a Once you have passed through a gate, OS Explorer Map: 148 narrow strip of woodland on your left. turn left and look out for a stile on your Terrain: Mostly along public Not far from here is a WWII ‘fox hole.’ left. Pass over it and walk diagonally footpaths in fields and This is part of a network of secret across the field, heading for the stile to woodlands. One bunkers found here to prepare in case the right of some farm buildings. relatively steep climb. of an invasion. A ‘secret army’ were Cross the stile and eventually turn recruited whose task would have been right up the side of a small valley. When

24 Mid Kent Living Information and images supplied by Explore Kent you reach a road, cross it, and take a through a series of thin sections of footpath leading into the woods and woodland and kissing gates. Once you eventually past a small pit to your right. reach a waymarker post, turn right These are believed to be ‘Deneholes’, through a kissing gate and then walk small medieval chalk mines. Cross the along the edge of the field. At the stile into a large field and turn left and corner of the field continue downwards keep straight towards the woods. On a alongside a main road. After the steps, clear day it is possible to see the north turn right onto the road. Continue Kent coast from here. straight over the crossroads into Cross a stile into the woods and when Hollingbourne. You may wish to stop for you eventually reach a lane, turn right. a drink at the Dirty Habit, an excellent Then take the byway to the left. This pub, popular with walkers. path then leads into a section of rare Keep a look out for Hollingbourne ancient woodland. At the junction bear Manor to your right, a grade I listed left. You are now in Estate, building from about 1570. Once the road Fo r more managed by the Woodland Trust. passes the church take a footpath to the inspiration fo r wa lking, cycling Stay straight until you reach a marked right of it leading to a large field. Head junction where you turn left onto the across it and follow the path down by and outdoor activities check North Downs Way and into woodland. the school towards the main road. Turn out explorekent.org or follow Pass through a kissing gate and through right and head under the railway. Take us on Facebook and Twitter to open downland with excellent views. the next right after this, back to the @explorekent. Follow the North Downs Way left station.

Mid Kent Living 25 Gardens to visit

Gardener’s AUTUMN glory question time The season offers a new chapter for garden lovers in Kent, as Dawn Kingsford discovers at Emmetts Garden.

With its expansive pinetum, Emmetts autumn but gives off the aroma of burnt Garden is the perfect place to marvel at sugar, similar to the smell of candyfloss. autumn’s rich russets and golds, while A great place for the whole family, taking in panoramic views across The including the dog — it is one of only a . handful of National Trust properties that The National Trust ranks the four-and- permit your pet on a lead in all parts of a-half acre gardens — along with those the grounds — Emmetts’ wide open at Scotney Castle — as the top place to spaces, outdoor seating and takeaway celebrate autumn in all its glory. refreshments provide the perfect place - with Emmetts’ head gardener Once owned by Frederic Lubbock, the to let off steam. Simon Walker charming Edwardian estate is known for This autumn, the family Hallowe’en its array of autumn colour. Fostered as a pumpkin trail enables adults and Your top tip? plantsman’s paradise in the late 19th children alike to explore the garden, Spend some time in the garden, not century and now owned by the National spot spooky items, answer sinister gardening, just enjoying. Trust, the garden is teeming with rare questions and pick up some Hallowe’en Least favourite job? and exotic trees and shrubs that come facts and prizes. Later in the year Digging out brambles. in to their prime at this time of year. children can take part in the Christmas Favourite flower? It incorporates a quintessential English elf trail, helping Father Christmas’ elves I’m a sucker for a pink tulip. rose garden, alpine and rock garden, prepare for the big day. and its south garden is brimming with New for this year is the children’s wild Flowers, fruit or veg? impressive hardy exotic trees and play area, offering youngsters a chance Fruit. I used to help grow peaches, shrubs, with 200 acres of woodland to clamber and get in touch with nature, it’s a real art and I love stuff like that. beyond. or to borrow games such as giant What’s your busiest month? The garden’s Japanese Katsura tree is dominoes and jenga, kites and cricket For us at Emmetts Garden it’s the flavour of the moment — not only sets, while parents can look on from the February, just before we reopen to does it turn yellow and orange in nearby seated refreshment area. the public. Things to do

Family Hallowe’en pumpkin trail, 10am-5pm, from Saturday, October 24 to Sunday, November 1. Trails are £1 each, available from the visitor centre. Christmas elf trail, from December 1 to January 3 2016. Guided tours — Monday-Friday at 2pm, discovering the latest shrubs, flowers and trees.

Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, is open daily (except Dec 24 and 25) until Jan 3, from 10am to 5pm, Find it and then closed until Feb 27. Entry is £8.30 for adults and £4.15 for children from five to 16, including gift aid. For details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden.

26 Mid Kent Living Images courtesy of: Bench (autumn scene) — National Trust/D Sellman Right panel images — Henry Jarvis Take a walk and discover Kent’s family of dining

All of our pubs offer a selection of scenic walks through beautiful Kent countryside. Walk up an appetite then treat yourself to a snack, lunch or dinner. Our menu’s are packed with seasonal delights using the very best Kentish produce

Gourmet Night An evening of Game & Wine at The Dirty Habit, Hollingbourne Tuesday 10th November 2015 Reception drinks from 7pm, Dinner 8pm £50pp including a glass of wine per course Hosted by Michael Card from Ellis of Richmond Importers of fine since 1822 THE THE THE THE THE THE

DIRTY POACHER GREAT FARM GUN HABIT VINEYARD & PARTRIDGE HOUSE HOUSE Heathfield Hollingbourne Lamberhurst Tu d e l e y Hawkhurst West Malling 01825 872361 01622 880880 01892 890222 01732 358934 01580 753119 01732 843257 www.elitepubs.com

Mid Kent Living 27 RBLI still dedicated to improving lives

Established at Aylesford nearly a century ago to help servicemen returning from the Great War, RBLI has expanded and developed into a national charity at the forefront of care and commerce.

Royal British Legion Industries was created in Why I feel very lucky 1919 to provide training Two years ago, Kate Bosley’s life and support for service was turned upside down by a personnel coming home cycling accident, which left her after fighting for their with a serious head injury. country in World War I. The mother-of four was left Known first as Industrial fighting for her life and unable to Settlements Inc., it began continue with the job she loved as by taking ownership of chief executive of the Heart of Preston Hall at Aylesford, Kent Hospice. Although her where it specialised in memory was badly scarred, Kate providing superlative care began steadily to recover and to ex-servicemen found that volunteering with RBLI and employment for those traffic, place names, suffering from at Aylesford helped her to begin disadvantaged by tourist information, health tuberculosis. rebuilding her life. disability, a health and safety and railways. In 1925, Industrial Kate hopes that her story will condition or social welfare As a UK leading supplier Settlements was taken help to inspire other people to join needs. This includes of railway trackside signs, over by the Royal British the volunteering scheme which providing work in its RBLI worked on the Legion, and for this RBLI launched this year. factories, helping the Channel Tunnel Rail Link reason, still shares the “My biggest problem was social unemployed back to work as well as the rebranding name. Now familiarly isolation, said Kate. “I had a busy through government of several stations known by its initials, RBLI and fulfilling life. My four children schemes and supporting including Clapham is still based in the Royal kept me busy. I loved cycling and the elderly through its Junction and Wembley British Legion Village. But was passionate about my career.” award winning 50-bed Central. it is now a separate nursing home, Gavin Astor After an initial assessment, Kate Base Camp charity which has grown House. The range of was simply asked to travel to RBLI into a large forward- accommodation also Nine months after the by bus two days a week, say hello thinking organisation with includes Queen Elizabeth people of Kent voted for to the staff, and travel home again. offices and factories Court, a 40-flat home and the project to win the Big Gradually, she was given different around the UK. assisted living scheme, Lottery People’s Millions, tasks which were achievable. However, the charity providing care for Base Camp recently “Because I am progressing, my role prides itself on having veterans and their opened its doors. is still changing and I have been remained true to its dependants. Veterans, local lucky enough to work in a few original purpose and is residents, students and Signs of the times areas of the organisation,” she still providing training, community groups all said. Whether you go by road support, care and came together to support “Wherever I have worked I have or rail, you are unlikely to employment to the armed RBLI in winning £50,000 been treated with respect. My travel very far without forces community. to transform the old disabilities were taken into account passing a sign made at RBLI owns a number of Doctor’s House into a but did not restrict me RBLI’s factory at purpose-built homes at community café and hub unnecessarily.” Aylesford. Aylesford, including some in the heart of the Royal Kate said that volunteering had The charity’s long reserved especially for British Legion Village. helped her history in the industry has veterans and their families Base Camp is open daily to combat helped to make it a and for service people and brings together the social leading manufacturer of a repatriating from abroad. veterans and people living isolation she wide range of signs The charity also now in the area to socialise felt, to meet suitable for outdoor and provides support, care and take part in various people and indoor use, including road activities. The aim is to be part of a team, and to develop battle loneliness - and re-learn skills. Can you help reducing isolation among She said: “When I am well enough veterans and offering If you would like more information about the RBLI, to work, volunteering will improve better integration with the call 01622 795900 or email [email protected] my chance of employment.” wider community.

28 Mid Kent Living Charity profile

Give a big hand for local CHARITIES The amazing generosity of people in Kent helps to support many local charities so that they can continue with their vital work. Here are some of the many good causes who constantly need to raise money, so any donations or help you can give will be gratefully received.

Abigail’s Heart of Kent Buttercups Footsteps Hospice, based at Sanctuary was launched in 2010 by Rochester Aylesford, near for Goats couple Jo and David Ward in memory Maidstone, is an independent charity Would you like a really of their daughter Abigail, who was providing expert care for people unique, fun and informative idea stillborn at 41 weeks gestation. facing a life-limiting illness. Its for your child’s birthday party in Several years on, they are trying to catchment area includes Maidstone, a beautiful outdoor setting at use their own experience to “ease Tonbridge and Malling and the ? Then the pain of other parents”. Their aim surrounding villages. Its specialist Buttercups could be the answer. is not to fund medical research into teams care for nearly 1,000 patients Founded 25 years ago, the charity stillbirth as that work is already and their families each year at home cares for about 150 goats at the being done by others, but to increase or in the hospice, improving their sanctuary at any one time, with a awareness and improve bereavement quality of life and helping them live similar number of goats fostered out training for hospital staff. The each day as fully as possible. to approved carers. The goats may initiatives have included the A wide range of fundraising events have been abandoned or mistreated production of a heart-rending short is organised throughout the year and but are assured of a happier life with film entitled The Deafening Silence there is a popular charity shop in excellent care at Buttercups. which gives a mother’s eye view of Aylesford, which sells a huge stock of A range of events includes family stillbirth. donated goods including clothes and days, organised from May to October Jo and David have nothing but furniture in aid of the hospice. on the first Sunday in each month praise for the individual midwives from noon to 4pm, when entrance is who supported them through the Forthcoming events include: by donation. birth of Abigail but say that many The Welly Walk, Kent Showground, For children’s parties, a separate hospitals are still woefully Detling, near Maidstone, November area can be provided with a marquee, unprepared to deal with stillbirth. 29, 9am to 3pm, in association with tables and chairs, and some of the “Numerous hospitals have Maidstone Riverside Rotary, promises smaller goats can be brought to see inadequate facilities and equipment to be a fantastic day out for all the the youngsters for some fuss, and their staff have received no family. Explore the footpaths of the cuddles and even a brush. Parties bereavement training. It is the North Downs Way on the five or six- can be held on Saturdays and charity’s aim to change this,“ they mile circular route before returning Sundays. The charge is £12 per child, say. to the showground for delicious minimum age is four, and you must The charity has attracted high refreshments and family- provide food and drink profile supporters including friendly entertainment. Each for the party. Face newscaster Julie Etchingham, singer child who completes the painting can be arranged Cheryl Baker and weather presenter treasure trail will receive a for an additional charge. Sian Lloyd, as well as securing Lady gift from the treasure chest. For more information, Astor of Hever as patron. Prices, adults £7, children or to book or donate, call For more information or to donate, £3, families £18 and £21. To 01622 746420 or visit visit www.abigailsfootsteps.co.uk. book, call 01622 790195. www.buttercups.org.uk.

Mid Kent Living 29 10% discount on production of this advert 01622 320380

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30 Mid Kent Living Walks

WithWhether you’re cookingChristmas or eating, giving or receiving,in mind Christmas offers a perfect opportunity to relax, have fun and be merry. With the big day fast approaching, we have a host of tips to help you make the most of the festive season. On the next pages, we’ve got the gifts to keep foodies full and content and lots of unique ideas for romantic treats to share with a loved one. Whatever your plans, from pantomimes to partying, from eating a festive meal at home to dining out in classy restaurants, we have plenty of ideas to help you ensure that Christmas is all wrapped up nice and early. Then all you need to do is enjoy!

Lenham’s Traditional Family GB LISTER Butcher & Greengrocer Produce you can trust Christmas Special Offer - 1.3kg Turkey Roll, 1.3kg Topside, All for 1.3kg Leg of Pork, 12 Pigs in Blankets, 1lb Sausage Meat. Plus £10 Vegetable Bag £50

13 The Square, , Visit our website for details of our latest weekly offers Maidstone ME17 2PQ www.lenham-butchers.co.uk Tel: 01622 858220 Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Email: [email protected]

Mid Kent Living 31 HOMEWOOD ORCHARD NURSERY Christmas Trees Lights, Decorations, Artificial Wreaths and Novelties

Without a doubt the largest selection of best value & quality trees green & blue potted & rooted no drop Christmas trees, holly wreathes and quality tree stands

Wholesale Enquiries Welcome

Open 7 Days a week 9.00am - 5.30pm 01622 727103 / 07889 312557 Homewood Orchard Farleigh Lane Maidstone Kent (Also at Buckmore Park, Bluebell Hill near the Go-Kart Centre)

www.whf.org.uk GIVE THE GIFT OF A BIG CAT EXPERIENCE

A MEMORY THAT LASTS FOR A LIFETIME

PROTECTION IS Wildlife Heritage Foundation, Road, Smarden, Kent TN27 8PJ See website or call for prices and further details OUR PASSION Email: [email protected]

Registered Charity no: 1104420 T. 01233 771915

32 Mid Kent Living Christmas

A time for SHARING Dawn Kingsford takes a look at some inclusive festive gift ideas providing twice the fun.

Bedgebury One of the things we most enjoy about scuba diving lessons in Dover or Christmas is time off together. learning to surf in Broadstairs. Use So with this in mind, it’s worth your imagination. considering a present that allows family, Tickets or vouchers to social events friends and yourself to spend some also make a great present and provide quality time together. an opportunity for the whole family to And in Kent, you don’t need to look get together, whether enjoying a far to find an outing to suit everyone’s pantomime at your local theatre, a trip taste, from Alpaca trekking in New to the cinema, a comedy show or a Romney to Segway riding at Leeds ghost tour in Canterbury.

You never know, you may find you spend more time together in future, as a result!

Castle or Mote Park, Maidstone, tandem For something a little more luxurious skydiving at Headcorn or micro-lighting and intimate, Kent boasts a whole range in Rochester or, how about piloting your of fantastic hotels and restaurants for own hovercraft in Tonbridge? a candlelit dinner or an overnight stay. Leeds Castle As a time for sharing, Christmas could You could even treat yourself and your be an opportunity to show an interest in mum or mother-in-law to some beauty your partners hobbies, be that a round treatments or a trip to a Kent spa. In Kent the list of of golf, cooking, quad biking, or clay For something highly personal, you possibilities is endless pigeon shooting — you never know, you could pick a part of Kent and then piece may find you spend more time together together a day or weekend of activities, Go Ape at Bedgebury, forest in future, as a result. whether camping, B&B, walking, or activities for all to share including Once-in-a-lifetime experience that are visiting a stately home, the choice is zip wires, aerial assault courses likely to blow your partner’s socks off yours and in Kent the list of possibilities and Segway rides. could be the answer for an extra special is endless. So, whatever you choose, Leeds Castle in Kent offers gift, such as feeding the lions in make Christmas a time for sharing time falconry, golf, dining and Smarden, or handling a snake in Lydd, together. medieval Knight’s Glamping.

Mid Kent Living 33 From Peter Pan to Aladdin – it’s panto-tastic The enduring appeal of pantomimes shows no sign of waning, with many big-name actors gearing up for a season of laughter and entertainment in venues across Kent. EastEnders favourites Shane Ritchie (Alfie Moon) and Louise Jameson (Rosa di Marco) are among the stars sure to draw large audiences keen to celebrate the holiday period in style. So if you fancy some old-fashioned family fun, you need look no further than your nearest theatre.

her father’s freedom, but can Peter Pan Cinderella Fly to Neverland where you she tame the Beast and teach will join Peter, Tinkerbell him to love, and be loved in The most magical fairy tale of them all will be spectacularly Wendy, John, Michael and the return? brought to life through stunning costumes, beautiful sets, real Shetland ponies, the hilarious ugly sisters and amazing Lost Boys — not to mention Will Beauty find true love? special effects. Captain Hook. Will Potty Pierre get his job back in the Palace? Will Dame Starring CBBC's Tracy Beaker, Dani Harmer as Cinderella, If you believe in magic then Dotty find a new husband? Jamie Rickers from CITV and Nickelodeon as Buttons and you will not be disappointed, And has anyone seen the Louise Jamieson (EastEnders, Doctor Who) as the Fairy with lots of family fun, Prince? Godmother. laughter, slapstick and a star- Central Theatre, Chatham Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells studdded cast that will have December 10 2015 – December 11 2015 – January 3 2016 you up on your feet — and January 3 2016 don't forget to boo! Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone Aladdin Peter Pan Aladdin December 4 2015 – You are invited to 'Peking' for Following the success of Come and see if Aladdin, a January 3 2016 a magical carpet ride to the previous pantomimes such as poor Chinese boy, can win the Beauty and the Beast Far East. With laugh-out-loud Dick Whittington, Jack and heart of the beautiful jokes, fabulous costumes, the Beanstalk, Mother Goose, princess. Starring Sue Holderness magic and illusions, special Aladdin and Robin Hood and With a law decreeing that (Marlene in Only Fools and effects, a 'hilarious' airborne the Babes in the Wood, Magic the princess can only marry a Horses) as the Wicked Genie, sing-along songs, and Beans Pantomimes returns to prince, and the evil Abanazar Malevolent whose evil plans an astonishing Flying Carpet. the Stag Theatre to bring you up to no good, it looks as leave the Prince feeling not Theatre Royal, Margate, Peter Pan. though Aladdin’s dream may quite himself and the Kent Stag Community Arts never come true. And he is beautiful Belle in danger, and December 12 2015 – Centre, Sevenoaks not the only one. Aladdin’s X-Factor sensation Stevi December 29 2015 December 12 2015 – mum Widow Twankey has got Ritchie as Potty Pierre, the January 10 2016 the mixed-up Chinese laundry show is full of all the usual Cinderella blues; her other son Wishee special effects, magic and A local show with a full cast Aladdin Washee is being particularly mayhem that you’ve come to of Kent-based performers are Traditional family pantomime unhelpful; and they are also expect from the Central preparing to bring you an with full professional cast and very poor. If only Aladdin Theatre panto. affordable, family friendly, live music. could make his fortune and Beauty and the Beast tells traditional panto. Memorial Theatre, then all their dreams could the story of Beauty who Sinden Theatre, Tenterden Broadstairs come true. becomes the prisoner of a December 14 2015 – December 14 2015 – So add a touch of sparkle to monstrous Beast in return for December 23 2015 December 29 2015 your festive season with this magical mix of music, comedy, Dick Whittington adventure and pantomime fun. EastEnders actor Shane Ritchie stars in a dazzling Filled with mystique, production spectacularly brought to life with an abundance stunning sets and costumes, of comedy, stunning sets, fabulous costumes and audience comedy, song and dance and participation. lots of audience participation Join Dick Whittington, Alice Fitzwarren and the lovable — Aladdin guarantees another Tommy the Cat on an enchanting pantomime adventure. Christmas extravaganza! The Orchard Theatre, Dartford Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone December 12 2015 – January 3 2016 December 22 2015 – January 9 2016

34 Mid Kent Living Christmas New Year at

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Mid Kent Living 35 The George Inn TheThe LEEDS GeorgeGeorge && DragonDragon Traditional English Pub Ightham, Kent RECENTLY REFURBISHED - A charming Tudor Comfort and a warm welcome awaits you. Inn situated in the picturesque village of Serving fresh homemade food cooked in Ightham serving freshly prepared food daily house and quality ales. Book now for Christmas £19.95pp Lunch & Dinner Available New Autumn/Winter Menu with Monday to Saturday fish and shell fish speciality 3 courses with coffee & mints LOBSTER Available at weekends Find us at:- BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS 4 Lower Street, Leeds Village, The Street, Ightham, Kent TN15 9HH Maidstone, Kent ME17 1RN 01622 861314 01732 882440 www.the-george-inn.com [email protected] www.georgeanddragon-ightham.co.uk

Our food is freshly prepared on the premises using the finest quality ingredients, by Turkish & Kurdish chefs. Come & celebrate our 1st CHRISTMAS with us from 1st December Kent's only permanently moored floating Bar and restaurant The ideal night out this Christmas Come try our delicious new menu's set 3 course Menu from £21 per person (not available during December) Choose from a selection of set menu’s All of our menu's are available online at www.embankments.co.uk to suit your party. Fresh food, lovingly prepared by talented chef's and served by our warm and friendly staff Prices from £15.95 - £39.95pp

Christmas at Embankments Restaurant is always special. "Great food, great location, great seasonal atmosphere" AS A THANK YOU TO THE PARTY ORGANISER, BOOK TODAY AND Lunch: 3 courses £25 per person Evening: 3 courses £35 per person incl: flute of Kir Royal or RECEIVE A £20 GIFT VOUCHER privately book the whole restaurant for your Christmas party To visit us anytime in January 2016 to include disco until 2am (email: [email protected] for more info) 0800 689 7888 62-63 High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1SR River Medway rear of Archbishops Palace, Mill Street, Maidstone ME15 6YE 01622 675000 www.gemofkent.co.uk Email:[email protected]

36 Mid Kent Living Good Food Time to chill out with a heart-warming meal

When the weather gets colder and the jumpers get chunkier, it’s the season to get cosy with comfort food and delicious drinks. Forget the waistline war for a while and indulge in some feel-good favourites. Wrap up warm for a walk in the countryside, with the reward of a warming roast dinner at a welcoming village pub. The George and Dragon at Ightham and the George Inn at Leeds both offer tasty menus and tempting wines and beers. If your stroll takes you along the river, stop off at Embankments Restaurant and Bar, and enjoy the scenery near Maidstone’s Archbishop’s Palace. While a two-minute walk from the waterway, you can enjoy a taste of sunshine at the Gem of Kent Turkish and Kurdish restaurant in the High Street, which offers outstanding dishes from both cultures.

The Gem of Kent The George Embankments Bar The George Inn and Dragon & Restaurant The Gem of Kent proudly The George and Dragon Embankments restaurant The George Inn is at the boasts itself as Maidstone’s at Ightham is a village pub is the only permanently heart of the quaint village only Turkish and Kurdish brimming with character moored floating restaurant of Leeds, close to Leeds Restaurant and it is and history. in the whole of Kent. Castle, on the outskirts of certainly worth shouting Inside the pub, you will Situated on the river Maidstone. about. The restaurant find a bar and separate Medway, behind the This cosy pub offers a offers outstanding dishes dining room, with a beer Archbishops Palace, the warm welcome to all and from both cultures created garden for warmer days. restaurant offers a newly prides itself on its great using the finest quality The menu is an exciting created sun deck. community spirit. ingredients. combination of classic This unique restaurant As well as a great pint, In addition to the English pub food and boasts 60 covers where delicious hearty and extensive a la carte menu French-influenced fine guests can enjoy great traditional meals are there is a set lunch and dining. Alongside your food and wine presented served in the dining room, dinner menu, which means usual favourites such as through a range of in the bar or on the patio that choosing and dining scampi and chips or ham specially created menus (if the weather is warm has never been easier - and eggs, you will find a designed to complement enough!) Classic dishes offering you a fantastic more adventurous each other. such as lasagne, a tasty choice of new tastes and selection of “plat chauds” The restaurant offers the ocean pie or the slow classics. such as the French classic perfect setting to celebrate roasted lamb shanks bring The warm, friendly tournedos Rossini - fillet Christmas with prices from customers back time and atmosphere and the beef with a madeira sauce £25 per person. time again. courteous team, along with and fondant potatoes. The friendly staff, great, The pub will be serving the exceptional food, make Vegetarians are not value and quality food its Christmas party menu it the ideal venue for this forgotten either, with a ensure you a dining during December – but be years Christmas choice of dishes that go experience to better most sure to book early as it’s a celebration. beyond the obvious. of the high street chains. popular Christmas treat. www.gemofkent.co.uk www.shepherdneame.co.uk www.embankments.co.uk www.the-george-inn.com

According to TripAdvisor… The George Inn The George and Dragon “Excellent Sunday Lunch” “Excellent Food” “We had Sunday lunch here and food was very nice - good “I can't express how efficient the service was and how the selection of roasts plus the daily menu was also available. food met and exceeded my expectations! The food portions Cosy bar and restaurant, very quaint inside and large beer are massive and guaranteed to fill a hole! The new menu is garden outside. Would not hesitate to visit again.” a winner in my eyes and I would definitely recommend you August 2015 try it!” April 2015 Embankments Bar & Grill The Gem of Kent “Amazing” “Absolutely stunning” “Fantastic place, great location. Just spent an evening there “Absolutely stunning - couldn’t have asked for a better meal and the food was fantastic and the customer service was for our anniversary, very authentic and great value for great. Really enjoyed the evening, will definitely be going money. Will definately be going again.” September 2015 back.” August 2015

Mid Kent Living 37 Why not make your Christmas a truly special occasion by purchasing your Christmas meal from MB Farms or MB Food Hall Faversham. Try one of our free range turkeys or chickens — reared on our farm at Stockbury — to ensure taste and tenderness. Our beef is also reared on our farm, providing traceability from field to fork, and is hung for a minimum of 28 days to guarantee superb eating quality. We also supply a complete range of Christmas fayre including high welfare standard pork, gold medal winning sausages and pies, fresh seasonal vegetables and kentish cheeses. We pride ourselves on the welfare of our animals and all our customers are welcome to come and see them at our farm. MB Farms Stockbury 01795 842401 Parsonage Farm, The Street, Stockbury ME9 7UJ MB Food Halls 01795 532040/537373 4-6 West Street, Faversham ME13 7JE

Christmas at The Pepperbox Inn Windmill Hill, Fairbourne Heath, Nr. Harrietsham Visit our charming pub situated in beautiful countryside with outstanding views of the Weald of Kent CHRISTMAS MENU 2015 STARTERS Roast Parsnip Soup With Hazelnut & Parsley Pesto Book now for Christmas Pan Fried Pigeon Breast With Pear & Watercress Salad & Blackberry Dressing Christmas Menu available Baked Camembert With Figs & Toasted Walnut Bread lunchtimes & evenings Juniper Cured Salmon Gravadlax With Sweet Dill & Mustard Dressing & Rye Bread Lunch Ham Hock & Savoy Cabbage Terrine With Piccalilli & Toasted Sourdough Monday to Saturday MAIN COURSES 3 course £26 2 course £20 Traditional roast Kent turkey with duck fat roast potatoes and all the festive trimmings Dinner Pan fried fillet of bream with potato & crab mash & shellfish bisque Monday to Thursday £26 7oz Rump steak with port & stilton sauce & potato rosti Prosciutto wrapped tenderloin of pork in apple & calvados sauce, Dinner Full á la carte menu Friday & Saturday £29.50 and traditional pub with celeriac & potato gratin Wild mushroom, chestnut & kale pie with garlic & herb roasted potatoes food served lunchtimes and evenings DESSERTS • Ample parking Christmas pudding & brandy sauce Black cherry & Amaretto crème brulee & shortbread biscuits • Walkers & Riders Treacle & orange tart with stem ginger ice cream welcome Chocolate & pistachio terrine with salted caramel brittle & vanilla cream • Warm & welcoming British Cheeseboard, chutney & biscuits open log fires Coffee & Chocolates

Opening Times: Daily from 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11.30pm Food Served: Lunch 12noon – 2pm Evening 7pm – 9.30pm Sunday Lunches: 12noon –3pm Closed Sunday Evenings 01622 842558 www.thepepperboxinn.co.uk

38 Mid Kent Living Christmas

EAT, DRINK and be merry! Finding new ways to satisfy our appetite to make Christmas Day dinner memorable.

Christmas comes but traditional roast turkey, festive feast some added once a year, and for those with 25 million of us zing, with produce less-than-confident cooks, following it up with sourced entirely from that’s a blessing! Christmas pud. So, for Kent? Serving up a show- many, it’s about making it Around the world, stopping “meal of the memorable — and where countries claim Christmas year” is enough to send better to buy the best with their traditional the best of us running than here in the Garden favourites, and in Kent from the kitchen. In fact, of England? Or if you there’s nowhere better to a recent survey provide a bespoke twist to shows the the biggest meal of the For something special for average British year. You’ll have the pick woman doesn’t of some of the country’s your Christmas table even attempt best produce, you’ll be If you’re looking for free-range her first supporting local farmers turkey, award-winning beef, or Christmas and producers and your something special for your dinner until the shopping trips will Christmas table, pop along to MB age of 34. become a chance to Farms in Stockbury, near But keep your explore the county. Sittingbourne. cool. The trick We’ve been out and As well as producing home-reared, here is to start about looking for some award-winning stock, the family farm planning early award-winning and butcher also stocks locally and be brave. opportunities to go that produced chutneys, jams and juices, That same extra mile for Christmas. as well as fruit and veg and specials, survey found And, if anyone needs such as its home-made game pie and nearly half felt convincing about buying sausages. a real sense of prefer “chicken”, book the best for Christmas, As well as filling your basket with achievement when finally yourself a Christmas just remember that with quality Kentish produce for your dishing up the Christmas lunch at a club, pub or 230,000 tonnes of special day, you can also see the dinner, with 28% told by hotel and let someone Christmas food thrown animals kept on the farm and get their partner it was else take the worry out away each year, choosing advice and cooking tips from staff. “better than their of it. the ingredients that The farm and shop is in Stockbury mum’s”. For those that want to everyone will love has village, off the A249 near Maidstone, So where to start? For eat, drink and be merry at never been more while its other store is in West 76% of us it’s with a home, why not give your important. Street, Faversham.

Images, clockwise from top left: Macknade Fine Food; Chapel Down; MB Farms; Anno Distillers Mid Kent Living 39 ALLINGTON KINGS HILL St Nicholas Church Hall (Back Hall) Kings Hill Community Centre Poplar Grove, Allington 70 Gibson Drive Tuesdays - 10am Wednesdays - 5.30pm & 7.30pm Emma 01795 472747 Lindsey 07914 842597 AYLESFORD MAIDSTONE Aylesford Bulls RFC, Jack Williams’s St. Martin’s Church Hall Memorial Ground, Hall Road Northumberland Road Wednesdays - 9am Tuesdays – 3.30pm & 5.30pm Bev 01622 750701 & 7.30pm Sue 07724 185071 St. Andrews Church Hall MAIDSTONE – TOWN Tonbridge Road St. Luke’s Church Hall, Foley St Mondays 5.30 & 7.30pm Tuesdays 5.30 & 7.30pm Julie 07770 937425 Toni 07834 438422 DITTON Ditton Community Centre Cornwallis Suite, Masonic Centre, Kiln Barn Road Courtney Road Mondays – 5.30pm & 7.30pm Wednesdays – 9.30am & 11.30am Toni 07834 438422 & 7.30pm – BEARSTED Sue 07724 185071 St John’s CEP School CRANBROOK Provender Way Cranbrook Rugby Club Wednesdays – 5.30pm & 7.30pm Angley Road, Cranbrook Julie 01622 734283 Tuesdays - 9.30am HARRIETSHAM Debbie 01580 720350 Harrietsham C of E Primary School West Street Tuesdays - 7.30pm Ray 07747 114511

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Amelias Closet offers a comprehensive range of competitively priced treatments including; Nail Extensions & Strengthening Overlays in Fibreglass, Acrylic or UV Gel, Manicures, Pedicures and Express Polish Treatments, using a combination of O.P.I Nail Lacquer, over 200 Gel Polish colours and glitters, a variety of Minx Foils and Nail Art Designs. Amelias Closet offers Specialist Beauty Treatments such as Eyelash Extensions, Lash Express, Party Lashes, Lash Lift and Perming, Tinting, Definition Brows and Unisex Waxing. You can also find a range of Body Treatments, Facials and Backcials using the finest Argan Oil, Ghassoul Clay and Beldi.

40 Mid Kent Living Mind, body & soul

Get the most from your What and when you eat can affect the benefits you get EXERCISE from your workout. Here’s all you need to know…

You’ve bought all muscles recover and repair (see below). your performance so it’s important to the right kit and A banana is the perfect snack if you’re have a good glug before and during your exercise plan feeling peckish about 30 minutes before your workout. “The amount you will has you on target exercise, but a heavy meal before you’re need to drink during exercise depends to achieve your due to work out isn’t a good idea. Your on the amount you sweat,” says Agnese fitness goals. But body’s energy will be focused on Pore. “This varies from person to person whether you’re digesting your food, which means it will and depends on the intensity and length hitting the gym or be less available to fire up your other of your exercise session. Environmental pounding the factors can also play a role, so make Agnese Pore muscles. pavements training Depending on what you eat, Agnese sure you drink plenty when it’s hot. And for a marathon, what and when you eat Pore advises you allow between one to if your training session is set to be more is vital if you’re to reap maximum four hours after a meal or snack before than an hour, you might be better off benefits from your workout. you start exercising. “The amount of with an electrolyte-based sports drink The first thing to remember is that time will depend on the amount and such as Lucozade.” carbohydrates are your friend when it type of the food you have eaten,” she Editorial supplied by Trish Lesslie comes to exercise, even if your goal is says. “Too much protein or fat will slow weight loss. “Carbohydrates are the down the movement from the stomach, main fuel used by working muscles and and will make you feel uncomfortable. If the brain,” explains Agnese Pore of the you have only an hour or so before Sevenoaks Medical Centre, a registered you’re due to exercise, aim for a meal or dietician with expertise in sports snack that is rich in carbohydrates, low nutrition. in fat and moderate in protein. A bowl of “Eating carbohydrates before exercise porridge made with low-fat milk or a can help improve performance and keep wholegrain sandwich or bagel with you going for longer without hitting the chicken and salad are all good choices,” wall,” she adds. she says. Protein is important too, as it helps Drinking enough is just as important repair and build muscles. Agnese Pore as what and when you eat. Dehydration, recommends you eat 20-30g of protein when the water content in your body within an hour of exercise to help your falls too low, can have a major effect on

Get your 20-30g of protein from one: small chicken breast medium fillet steak pint of semi-skimmed milk 100g tin of tuna 200g pot of low fat yoghurt

Mid Kent Living 41 Brand New Straight Stairlifts £1395 Reconditioned Stairlifts £895 Both include next day installation

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42 Mid Kent Living Senior Living

Planning on living forever? GREAT, YOU DON’T NEED A WILL

Wills opportunity to make sure your money As we live our day to day lives it feels as stays in the family down through the if we are going to live forever. But deep generations. Standard mirror wills leave down, we all know that one day we will the door open to money being lost no longer be here. Pausing to accept through taxation, remarriage or divorce. on your behalf. Even a joint bank that fact is the first step in making a Having the right sort of Will can avoid account can be frozen if one of you has Will. For those who put off making their these risks. lost mental capacity. Applying to the Will until it is too late, the consequences Lasting powers of attorney court is expensive and can take a very for the surviving loved ones can be Similarly, we all assume we can manage long time. huge. our affairs forever. Sadly this is not the As with Wills, you can create your own The laws of intestacy (dying without a case. Even if we avoid dementia, a LPAs but you do need to be careful as Will) may mean that your estate does stroke could happen at any time and LPAs are legal documents and a mistake not go where you want it to. Making a leave us unable to manage. If you could cost you a lot of money. Will can be easy and cheap but take cannot make decisions for yourself, care. One mistake can make it invalid don’t assume that your spouse or Written by Peter Camrass of and many home-made Wills suffer from grown-up children can take over for you. Camrass Wills this. Using a solicitor or a professional Unless you have lasting powers of Peter is a professional Will writer Will writer is not as expensive as you attorney (LPA), your affairs are taken who is an associated member of the think. over by the Court of Protection and your Society of Will Writers and a retired In addition, your Will can be a good family have to apply to the court to act independent financial adviser.

Wills | Powers of Attorney | Funeral Plans Camrass Wills Advice you can trust Do you want help writing your Will? Do you need Powers of Attorney? Do you want to buy a Funeral Plan?

Award winning local company Camrass Wills can be relied on to give you the Quality Service best advice on these and related topics; Expert Advice Inheritance Tax, Trusts & Probate. Competitive Prices With over 30 years’ experience in financial Wide range of products services and 5 years as a professional will writer, 7 day breakdown service Peter Camrass will visit you at your home, find FREE survey & quotation out what you need and advise you accordingly. Contact us today All fees agreed before you proceed. (01622) 277200 Contact Peter Camrass DipPFS Aff.SWW 01622 720985 www.camrasswills.co.uk

Mid Kent Living 43 The Goodman Centre is our bespoke homely day care facility supporting people with dementia to live well. We offer a person centred service provid- ed by our team of friendly staff and volunteers,

C l i e n t s c a n e n j o y : Home cooked hot meal at lunch Person centred activities A safe garden for relaxation

For More Info Contact: The Goodman Centre, 6 Egremont Road, Madginford, ME15 8LH Tel:01622 736966 Open Hours: 8am - 5pm (Mon-Fri)

x Foot care at home and in a clinic x Wheelchair hire x Bathing and showering in the home x Seated exercises x Day care facilities sessions x Disability travel voucher scheme x Volunteering opportunities x Home help with cleaning, shopping x Befriending gardening x Computer classes x Information and advice

x Handyman

Contact Details: Age UK Maidstone, 7 Mill Street, Maidstone, ME15 6XW

Tel: 01622 753618 E-mail: [email protected]

44 Mid Kent Living Senior Living

Making your bathroom EXTRA SPECIAL

We spend a great deal of that doesn’t mean it needs time in our bathroom, and to look like a hospital. the older we get, the more A wide range of attractive important it is to ensure that fittings are available to it is suitable for our changing complement your existing needs. décor or to give your Safety and comfort are bathroom a stylish new look, the most important while providing the best considerations when solution for your needs. for anyone with disabilities Trays can be made level with designing or remodelling a Walk-in baths, showers or mobility problems that the floor so if someone has bathroom but nowadays, and wet rooms can all help can make using a a problem with steps, this to improve conventional bath could be the ideal option. access and uncomfortable and it can Wall-fixed shower seats and independence provide a safe alternative grab bars can be installed. when using to a standard tub. A An entire room, or just a a traditional conventional style walk-in section, can be turned into bathtub or bath is very similar to a a wet room. The entire shower is traditional one, but has a floor area and walls of the starting to door at the front for easy wet room are waterproofed, become a access. providing people with a struggle. Having a walk-in shower disability and wheelchair A walk-in with an anti-slip tray can users easier access to the bath is ideal make life so much easier. shower and bathroom. Editorial supplied by Nightingale Bathrooms

Tel: 01622 246 046 0800 566 8889 www.nightingalebathrooms.co.uk

Mid Kent Living 45 Established 1946 A company you can trust National & International Removals & Secure Storage

Short & long term storage CCTV & Redcare alarm protection 24/7 Fully insured Own storage warehouse Self storage available

We don’t just move houses...We move homes.... Local & long distance, full & part loads International removals and shipping Wrap & pack service available Domestic & commercial moving & storage Fleet of own vehicles All staff are British Association of Removers trained & CRB checked

Take a virtual tour of the warehouse with Google maps at Bray & Sons, Maidstone

“A very big thank you to yourself, your office staff and your removal team for a very helpful and efficient removal service which helped to ease the stress out of the day. We would certainly recommend your company to anyone B012 B.A.R Trained Staff who is considering a move. Mr & Mrs Underdown, Maidstone

Bray & Son “Just a note to commend the team who moved me last week. A third generation, They were all very courteous, careful with the packing and the moving, and continued to be cheeful in spite of the torrential rain.” family run Mr How, Bearsted company with 69 years experience of moving homes. Call 01622 670562/663350 Why trust your [email protected] possessions to www.brayandson.com anyone else! Unit 15 Heronden Road, Parkwood, Maidstone

46 Mid Kent Living Homes & gardens

GARDENING with Hadlow College Autumn – a time gardeners associate with rustling leaves, bonfires, squirrels storing food for winter, Halloween, Guy Fawkes – and quite a lot of work!

It is not too late to plant spring- be exchanged with neighbours, family as winter approaches. Ensure an area flowering bulbs — but don’t delay. Avoid and friends — or ask if a local school or of hedge is left thick to provide shelter. planting tall tulips in locations where charity would like to add to their garden. Leave a few small piles of leaves in the stems may be snapped by gusting Onion sets can be planted now but tucked-away corners where they won’t winds. Remember that mixing bulbs in remember they have a long growing be disturbed or blown away. Set up containers can be disappointing even period — something to consider before winter feeding stations and include when packets indicate an identical deciding on the location. Rather than facilities for water. Remember that little flowering period — some may flower at planting a lot of one variety, select a and regular is infinitely better than the beginning of the month, others at range of colours and flavours — they are excessive and infrequent — and that the end. surprisingly diverse. dirty water containers spread disease Check out winter salad — seed very quickly. companies are offering increasing “It’s all in the soil” — a garden truism. ranges that can be grown under cover It is a fact that if the soil isn’t “right” — during the winter. At the same time, and this relates to fertility and texture — investigate “window sill ranges” that it will be impossible to produce optimum can be harvested up to the spring. results, and might even result in Garden peas are luscious, the most disaster. Compost is the very best soil luscious of all is the wonderful tiny, conditioner in practically all delectable first crop; steamed gently, circumstances. It assists drainage and they are delicious with roast lamb, also attracts good microorganisms that Plant bulbs for indoor flowering (check wonderful to accompany fish — and they help control unwanted microorganisms. packets and select carefully). Pots of can be added raw or cooked to green Compost can be laid in the autumn or bulbs can bring colour and scents into salads. Don’t delay — sow seeds now. before planting in the spring. One of the the house even when the weather Spinach is an increasingly popular advantages of carrying out the job now outside is grim — and don’t overlook “green” to accompany practically any when essential tasks are reducing in giving pots of bulbs as Christmas meat and fish. It also makes a wonderful number is that time won’t be taken up in presents. addition to mixed and green salads and the spring when jobs mount up quickly. Plant wallflowers before garden is particularly good as the basis of a hot Also, compost-spreading is quite a centres have sold out. Good in salad (try crisply cooked bacon tossed in strenuous job and so is best undertaken containers, borders and beds, this early tiny spinach leaves with the addition of in cooler weather. And imagine the flowering plant with its wonderful a very light dressing; fantastic as a money that will be saved; a layer of fragrance is one of the delights of early starter or a side dish). Select a compost can reduce — even eliminate — spring. ‘perpetual’ variety that will provide the need to apply expensive artificial Clump-forming herbaceous plants and leaves throughout the winter — harvest fertilisers. grasses are best divided at this time of regularly. year. When divided, excess plants could The needs of wildlife become greater Editorial supplied by Pat Crawford

Images supplied by Perfect Plants www.perfectplants.co.uk Mid Kent Living 47 VERANDAS & CARPORTS All weather covers for year round protection

Made to measure fixed or retractable canopies, walkway covers, carports with built in spotlights for your home. Call today for a free home consultation.

0800 0742 721SBIPRODUCTS.CO.UK

HAMILTON KITCHENS Discover our stunning range of contemporary & traditional designs

❚ Free no obligation consultation & design ❚ All building works undertaken. ❚ Quality ❚ Design ❚ Imagination ❚ Better and at the right price ✓ www.hamiltonkitchens.co.uk ❚ Tel: 01622 844897 Visit our showroom at Warmlake Business Estate, Maidstone Road, Sutton Valence, Kent ME17 3LQ

48 Mid Kent Living Homes & gardens

NEW

Showroom Now Open

tINTRUDER ALARMS CCTV SYSTEMS t • Curtains, Blinds, Shutters & Awnings tACCESSACCESS CONTROL • Domestic & Commercial • Free Quotes Quality Never Compromised Price Never Beaten

MEMBER OF THE FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES 01634 68 68 68 Now Open at: 6 The Oaks Business Village, Revenge Rd, Security.ImprovedSecurity.Improved Lordswood Industrial Estate, Chatham, Kent ME5 8LF www.medwayblinds.co.uk [email protected] All LOADS Ltd Loose or Bags 01622 873 231 Specialists in supplying aggregates Top Soil • Sand & Ballast Free Delivery

•Turf •Top Soil •Mushroom Compost www.allloads.co.uk email:[email protected]

Mid Kent Living 49 CURTAINS, BLINDS & SOFT FURNISHINGS WWW.DESIGNERTOUCHCURTAINS.CO.UK Curtains, Blinds & Soft Furnishings With the “Designer Touch”

• Made-to-measure curtains/blinds • Carpentry • Paving • Cushions & soft furnishings • Landscaping • Painting • Wide range of fabrics • Renovations • Plastering • Maintenance & more! • Doors & Windows ook now* i • Fencing • Repairs B f you • Tiling • Roofing mpleted ’d like work co befo re Christmas *by 31st October CRB Checked, Insured, All work guaranteed. Free quotes and no • Free measuring service, call out charge. quotes & fabric samples • Fully compliant with new British Call 0800 111 4664 Safety standard BS EN13120 or Mid Kent area Bruce 07584 056821 Call Ann for details to visit our studio at Unit 2, The Old Forge, Bearsted Green. [email protected] www.hireahubbygroup.com Booking an appointment is highly ANNIE BAILEY / STUDIO recommended or book a home visit. 01622 296060

Thinking about a new bedroom? Then think of us. We have a large portfolio of extremely delighted customers thanking us for our excellent work We are a family run business and we don’t do hard pressure selling, just friendly expert advice and design and a value for money price.

www.bedroomflair.co.uk 01622 729855 169 Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, Kent ME16 8NA

50 Mid Kent Living Homes & gardens

SPRUCE up your home! Exploring some great ideas to give your Putting the colour into 2016 home a fresh new feel for the festive season. Natural elements, stunning metals and clean tones are among the There’s nothing like the long-awaited extension or and worry later. So, if predictions from interior design advent of Christmas to ensuite; cold you’ve opted to paint a pundits for 2016. get you thinking about conservatories and room, will you need new Think weathered wood meets home improvements. ancient smooth cement, with colour hues Whether it’s welcoming carpets. going back to basics to complement extra guests or having Your and contrast with more industrial friends and family over available looks. for dinner, the décor in budget comes Seasonal hues are also expected the dining room, next. A tired to be adopted widely as everyday bedroom and bathroom kitchen can colour schemes, with autumnal all feature on the be given a colours such as fallen leaves, gourds domestic radar. new lease of and bright yellow featuring brightly The one “good” thing life with some in 2016. Also expect to see soft about a Christmas simple “winter” colours like dusty roses, gathering is that it accessories, a deep purples, and frosty grays provides a fixed deadline. new work continuing to make a romantic So, work back from here. surface or statement for simple, modern Start by prioritising doors and appliances, or curtains? Choose your styling. Dusty blue-mauve, winter what it is you want to you could give it a colour and design, order berry, and blue-reds will also be improve and how much complete overhaul. A new them, and have someone trending, which will go well with the time you have to do it. window or door to let in to hand if they need to be Scandinavian influences we’ll see in Make your aspirations more light; a log burner, made or altered. design through untreated woods. manageable, or you’ll end perhaps, or even a rug to There are plenty of Warm greys will continue to play up feeling festively cover a worn carpet can good reasons to spruce a part for those looking to create a “frazzled”, or consider all inject that cosy up your home for cosy room, coupling up well with getting someone else to Christmas magic back in Christmas, as a gift to uplifting colours such as yellow, do the work — but to your living space. yourself or as an mossy green and deep gold. remember, others will Next, give yourself time investment. Either way, Then there’s an ocean of teals, have their own DIY for a little research. it’s something the whole aquas and emerald, from bright to projects too, so book Determine colour family will enjoy, as well moody, with blue-greens continuing your tradesman early. schemes, flooring, as your guests, and it will to trend as we start 2016. provide some great gift Features that tend to furniture and delivery This cool palette is likely to find ideas, such as towels for jostle for attention as the times; making those itself alongside a muted plum that jingle bells start ringing difficult choices and your new bathroom or a pairs well with this group — a deep include: tired kitchens; ordering materials now standard lamp for the accent in a relaxing palette. tatty bathrooms, that will save you time, money lounge.

Images: Clockwise; bathroom courtesy of BHS; sofa courtesy of DFS Furniture; stair cushions courtesy of Oliver Bonas; bed and bedding courtesy of Next Mid Kent Living 51 Ask about our vertical blind offer

e: [email protected] Willington Homes t: 07971720242 Willington Homes – specialists in subdivide partnerships

Do you have a large garden that may lend itself to subdivide? Maybe you are thinking of selling up and would love to maximise your return? Maybe you’d like to stay in your home but reduce the size of your garden and create a nest egg for you and your family?

We at Willington Homes understand this is a big decision and have undertaken partnerships with local people, like you, to help them minimise the risk and maximise their return.

How does it work? Step 1 – We evaluate the potential of subdividing your garden Step 2 – We provide some build options for your consideration Step 3 – You seek independent advice on the value of the proposed build options Step 4 – We agree a land purchase price, based on achieving planning permission Step 5 – If we beat the upper valuation at sale we share the benefits To find out more, please call us on 07971720242 or email us at [email protected]

52 Mid Kent Living Warm up this autumn with a REAL FIRE There is nothing as warm and welcoming as a real fire burning on the hearth on a chilly autumn evening. The living flame becomes the focus of the room and creates a cosy sense of wellbeing. These days more and more people are opening up their fireplaces to enjoy the warmth and comfort of an open fire or wood burner. Everyone warms to the cosy glow and flickering flames that only a real fire can offer but solid fuel heating brings with it many other advantages too.

Low running costs – solid fuel is an use of a chimney will induce ventilation Guaranteed heat – with solid fuel efficient and economical method of into a home drawing in fresh air and heating you can hold stock, ensuring heating your home 24 hours a day. removing the ‘polluted’ air. that your home will be warm even in the Healthy – Solid fuel heating can greatly Wide range of fuels – From coal to most adverse weather conditions. There reduce condensation, eliminating smokeless, there’s a solid fuel to suit are nearly 1,000 coal merchants in the household mould often associated with any appliance you have. Most solid fuel UK and supplies of wood and coal are ‘on/off’ fires. Research has also appliances are multi-fuel meaning you also available from supermarkets, local indicated that solid fuel heating can can burn both wood and coal. farmers co-operatives and garage forecourts. reduce the risk of hay fever, asthma and Convenient and easy to use – eczema. Plus, homes with solid fuel modern control systems enable you to Whether practical or for comfort a heating are better ventilated than those keep your home at the desired fireplace is a beautiful addition to any with other forms of heating; the very temperature throughout the day. room in your home.

    SALE   

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Available from Unit 5 Kilnbridge Works, Off Lower Road     , Maidstone, Kent ME15 0HD Tel: 01622 829183 Web: www.balinea.co.uk          

Mid Kent Living 53 THE FIREPLACE

A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

• Wood & Multi Fuel Stoves • Gas & Electric Fires • Chimney Lining • Full Installation Service • Marble, Wood & Stone Fire Surrounds • Made to Measure Surrounds

Visit Our Showroom 2 Castle Court, Castle Road, Eurolink Industrial Estate, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3TD Tel/Fax: 01795 599234 www.the-fireplace.net

Opening Times: Mon - Fri 9.30-4, Sat 10-4

54 Mid Kent Living Sales and Services Sales & Services

The complete Bathroom Maintenance Company NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES Supply • Install • Repair • Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services

Call Gary 07738 902116 • 01622 736266 ALL WORK GUARANTEED

STYLES AVAILABLE: ROLLER Antiques@number19 CLASSIC VERTICALS ALI VENETIAN First class services for buying and BLINDS ROMAN WOODEN VENETIAN selling antiques and collectables Simple. Easy. Classic Also confidential pawn broking services available. FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE, FREE QUOTES, Call for more information 07775 602526 HIGH QUALITY, WIDE RANGE, EXCELLENT VALUE, ALL WINDOW BLINDS FULLY GUARANTEED 19 High Street, Cranbrook TN17 3EE www.ClassicsBlindsAshford.co.uk 01622 730572

PAUL MILL Television Ltd 01622 751000 Est. 1981 • See the latest Panasonic LED, Latest 4K, Smart & 3D Screens • Youview Record, Pause, & Rewind TV, BBC iPlayer, ITV Player & 4oD • Your local Sky expert, SKY HD, multiroom & “hidden” dish installation • Freeview & Freesat, Expert aerial and dish installation service Please phone us for free friendly advice today www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service

Hair and Make Up by Clair 07972212486

Mobile hair dressing and makeup artist in the comfort of your own home I am a fully insured hairstylist and make up artist with 16 years experience that has trained with wella, aveda and urban decay I specialise in colouring, cutting and hair up for any occasion and can achieve any hair style and make up you desire, using the best brands. I am a friendly and passionate about what I do and always give the best service to my clients Call for prices

01474 01580 291648 812005 ALL MAKES OF WATER SOFTENERS SERVICED • SALES • SERVICE • FILTERS & REVERSE OSMOSIS • FREE SURVEY PROMPT INSTALLATIONS

BARNSIDE, WROTHAM ROAD, MEOPHAM www.softwaterservices.co.uk BLOCK SALT SOFTENER [email protected]

Mid Kent Living 55 MoT Testing All MOT’s Free re-test and minor adjustments £40.00 Service & repairs carried out to all makes & models TilyardAuto’s Local recovery service available Tel: 01622 663662 Tyres • Exhausts • Tracking Unit 5, Bridge Industrial Estate, Wharf Road, FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY Tovil, Maidstone ME15 6RR SERVICE WITHIN 10 MILE RADIUS

A1Roofing Services • TILED ROOFING • FLAT ROOFING • LEAD FLASHING • PVC FASCIA / SOFFITS • FULL REPAIR SERVICE SEASONED LOGS CUT TO SIZE £80, £100 and £125 loads Free Delivery For a prompt reliable service Tel: 01622 296011 07891 972825 Mob: 07884 180595 Email: [email protected] Free bag of kindling with every load

Kent Carpet Cleaning Services Ltd (part of Rolin Cleaning Services) PaulTANN LTD Looking for a professional, local, family run carpet cleaning company? Then give Chrissy and John a call. We undertake all types of groundworks including - • Upholstery Cleaning • Leather Suite Cleaning Foundations I Drainage I Paving I Stonework I Patios • Stain Removal • Stainguard Protection We are members of the Marshall & Tobermore approved installers register

Special Offer – Free bottle of spot and stain remover 1 Beech Road East Malling Kent ME19 6DQ T 01732 842 863 M 07956 313 287 / 07834 810 453 07860100295 John 01732 872 199 07801 561696 Chrissy E [email protected] W paultann.co.uk [email protected] www.rolincleaningservices.co.uk VAT No. 864362901 Company Registration No. 0543 1934

Plumbing & Tiling Bathroom Installation & refurbishment, DAVID COX Mobile: 07701024078 Home: 01622 730960 E: [email protected] FREE ESTIMATES

www.wrightsfencing.co.uk SAVESAVE £££s ON SKIPSKIP HIRE ACROSS KENT 4, 6, 8 & 12yd Skips DomesticDomestic & CommercialCommercial Fully recycledrecycled atat our ownown facilitiesfacilities PermitsPermits ArrangedArranged CompetitiveCompetitive RatesRates Book and paypay online on our websitewebsite No1 Locally CONTACTCONTTAACT US TODAYTODAY 01622 8045498 Since 1996 TO FIND OUT MORE countrcountrystylerecycling.co.ukystylerecycling.co.uk

24 hour service locks opened new locks fitted security checks emergency work undertaken UPVC door & window repairs Your Maidstone Locksmith T: 01622 755750 M: 07738 658751 3 Plains Avenue, Maidstone ME15 7AT Maidstone & Kent www.yourmaidstonelocksmith.co.uk

56 Mid Kent Living Sales and Services

At we only use genuine parts Specialising in VW Audi SKODA SEAT GMS Mechanical Repairs & Maitenance • Servicing • Tuning • Air Con • Pre-MOT • Accessories fitting • Vehicle modifications • Electric diagnostic Main dealer trained • Independently priced Maidstone’s Best Kept Secret Unit 2 Gibralter Lane, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2NG Now come and find us 01622 686824 www.gmskent.co.uk HANDYMAN No job too big or too small. Painting & decorating, all roofing works & repairs, chimney’s, guttering & gutter cleaning, pressure cleaning, fencing & brickwork & driveways

07554 267087 0800 4748750 Free from landlines

AARON KING GARDEN MAINTENANCE • Pruning and maintenance • Leaf clearance Trailer Hire-Sales-Repair • Disposal of Christmas Trees Kent Trailers • Garden tidy ups • Hedge cutting Indespension Agent Livestock, Plant, Recovery, Van, General Purpose • Landscaping Trailers in stock, New & Used Tel: 07593 514740 Detling [email protected] 01622 730063 [email protected] 07860 318166 www.aaronkinggardenmaintenance.co.uk

MirandaMirandaMiranda DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS

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Units 15-16 Dickens Court Enterprise Close, Medway City Estate Kent ME2 4LY 01634 717400 www.mdgrepairs.co.uk

Mid Kent Living 57 Maidstone Exhaust Centre Covering most aspects & Bower Lane Tyres of car repairs Bower Lane, Maidstone, Kent

Exhausts: 01622 672798 TYRES - EXHAUSTS - BRAKES Tyres: 01622 687466 SUSPENSION - TRACKING & MORE www.maidstone-exhaustcentre.co.uk

Prompt D.T Collection Double Glazing Repairs Fast & Locksmith Services Delivery SKIP HIRE • Locks repaired or replaced • Letterboxes Over 20 Years Experience Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 • Hinges & window handles Prices from £110+VAT & 12 Yard Bins • Broken glass & misted units Access Covering Maidstone • Lost key replaced & doors opened 01622 & The Weald Denied EA Registered • Patio doors, runners & rollers 843511 Fast & Prompt Service • Doors that are difficult to close and lock South Belringham Yard, South Lane, Commercial Sutton Valance, Kent ME17 3BD & Domestic 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447

UPHOLSTERY & CARPET CLEANING (homes and cars) H & G Chimney Services POND (maintenance and clearance) Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered HOUSE & COMMERCIAL CLEARANCE All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted • Complete (clean ups, probate, end of tenancy) re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs all at very reasonable prices. [email protected] Call us Now: 01622 686 189 Mobile: 07943 953 412 01622 739439 07860 318166 Email· [email protected] www.kentclear.com 24hrs D. BODY LTD Waste Collection

Cesspool Emptying Septic Tanks Drain Clearing Sludge Removal Treatment Plants Gulleys & Forecourts High Pressure Jetting

Domestic & Commercial ENVIRONMENTAL LICENSED CARRIERS 24Hr - 7 Days A Week 01622 631688 Prompt & Friendly Service www.dbody.co.uk The Paddock, , Maidstone, Kent

58 Mid Kent Living Sales and Services KINGSGATE CONSTRUCTION LTD Extensions & Conversions Specialist No upfront costs - No deposit taken • Conservatories • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Driveways • Landscaping ALL BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN Fully Insured. References Available. Call Mark 07976 264231 01622 736127 [email protected]

@ Spindlebush Farm, MARSHALLS Hill, ME18 6AL •Driveways •Tar & Grit •Tarmacadam Seasoned logs suitable for •Footpaths •Block Paving•Car Parks open fires & wood stoves Council Approved Drop Kerbs Free Estimates WE BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTES Bulk bags from £50 01622 743037 Loose loads: £100 delivered 07729 862518 / 07771 523799 or £125 www.rssurfacing.com 01622 812005 07970 647334 07808 414965 ACE or 01622 853601 M.O.T. and Clutch Centre for a free, no obligation quote Vehicle Maintenance, Service & M.O.T. COMPLETE ROOFING SERVICE Open Mon – Fri 8:00 - 5:30 Sat 9:00 – 12:00 (M.O.T. only Sun 9:00 – 12:00) • Cam belt kits supplied & fitted • Full Roof Installation • Tiling & Slate Roofing • Broken belt damaged repaired • All makes, petrol & diesel • uPVC Fascias & Soffits • Chimney Repointing or Removal 736 London Road, Larkfield, Kent ME20 6BG • Roofing Repairs & Maintenance www.apolloroofing.co.uk Tel: 01732 870368

Freephone 0800 6942024 Friendly • Effecient • Reliable • Competitive HOMEFRESH Throughout the South East CARPET & Carpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate Single Room (12’ x 12’) £42 £21 PINBINS UPHOLSTERY Through Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 Hall, Stairs & Landing £56 £28 Commercial and domestic CLEANING Upholstery 1-14 day hire 3 piece suite £84 £42 OFFER 50% Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 Discount Same day delivery No hidden extras - All Curtains 2-4 yard mini skips prices inclusive of VAT Full length £74 £37 NEW SITE Half Length £42 £21 6-20 yard skips NOW OPEN Roll-on, roll-offs Detling Council approved Aerodrome Fence me in & alot more Tipped at our site Maidstone All types of Fencing & Gates Installed & Repairs 70% waste recycled All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, Crushed concrete Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. Top soil Regular Contracts, Lawn Mowing, Hedge Cutting etc. Grab hire also available Call Colin on 07521 377306 or 01622 853978

Chief Glen Hydrotherapy Referral Centre • Rehabilitation following injuries/illness • Recreational and fitness • Arthritis, Spinal Injuries etc. • Underwater Treadmill - Introductory Offers Call to discuss personal needs: 01622 749740 Freephone [email protected] www.chiefglenk9trainingschool.co.uk 0800 028 49 00 Mid Kent Living 59 West Malling Garage Limited

WINTER

£20* TYRES OFF MOT When booking Now made via email * Not to be used in conjunction Available with any other offer. Quote Call for details MID KENT LIVING for discounted offer

FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY within 10 miles

West Malling Garage have a fully qualified Fixed Price team of technicians, who can service, Servicing repair and MOT all makes of car. from £95 [email protected] 01732 874350 www.westmallinggarage.co.uk High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6QN HH && CC MotorsMotors Ltd.Ltd.

Independent BMW & Mercedes Specialists Servicing & Repairs while you wait, close to town centre Dealer Level Diagnostics MOTs by appointment Free Courtesy Car by Appointment Air Conditioning Specialists Why pay main dealer prices? Convertible Hood Specialists Affordable, advanced technology servicing Over 70 years’ of combined experience and accredited training with local main dealers 01622 752364 We service all makes & models www.handcmotors.co.uk 19-25 Rawdon Road, Maidstone, ME15 6PT Approved by Trading Standards

60 Mid Kent Living Motoring news

Horsepower The Ford Mustang, available across Europe for the first time in 50 years, has created a stampede of orders. The iconic car has made more than 9,000 appearances in television, music and video games, as well as co-starring in films with Hollywood stars such as Will Smith, Nicholas Cage, Jason Statham, Tom Cruise, and perhaps most memorably Steve McQueen — in cult 1960s movie Bullitt. Famed for powerful performance, the all-new Ford Mustang covers 0-62mph design elements including three- Italy. Used increasingly in the high- in less than five seconds with the dimensional, tri-bar tail lamps, signature fashion industry, it now lines the roof 5.0 litre V8 engine, or in just less than trapezoidal grille and shark-bite front and support pillars of the Q30 cabin. six seconds with the more fuel-efficient fascia. Driver and passenger seating have 2.3 litre EcoBoost engine. Study the full Mustang form on the been constructed for enhanced comfort Available in the UK from November, dedicated Haynes Ford of Maidstone and support with an elevated hip-point, the most technically advanced Mustang website www.kentmustang.com aiding the in-control sense that ever features a new chassis with independent front and rear suspension. First ever Infiniti compact The handling has been developed to launched deliver high levels of balance, The world premiere of the first ever responsiveness and fun, creating a new Infiniti Q30 premium active compact benchmark for Mustang performance. took place at this year’s International Technology for the all-new Ford Motor Show on September 15. Mustang includes advanced voice- The uniquely expressive exterior of activated connectivity system SYNC 2 the new Q30 creates a visual dynamism that enables drivers to voice-control for this new premium compact. audio, navigation, climate control and Similarly, the interior of the Q30 takes connected mobile phones. Standard expressive forms and curves and turns equipment includes an eight-inch them into an individual vehicle that combines well with Q30’s sharp touchscreen and a nine-speaker sound embraces the driver and passengers. dynamics on city streets or country system. Infiniti interior designers have roads. The new Ford Mustang is available in selected the highest quality materials Check out the full Infiniti range of fastback and convertible bodystyles and processes to create a premium premium cars at the FG Barnes Group, with six-speed manual and automatic modern ambience. One tactile detail is Park Wood, Maidstone. transmissions, and features classic the Dinamica suede-like material from www.invictamotors-honda.co.uk

4 More More powerful, more efficient, more intelligent: the new Audi A4 and A4 Avant feature numerous premium technologies which set higher benchmarks for their class. Elegant design blends with an innovative control concept, and lightweight construction meets new, efficient drivetrain solutions. The A4 and A4 Avant claim to be ahead of their peers in terms of infotainment and assistance systems. As a result, Audi drivers can look forward to a truly high-tech experience — an innovative synthesis of technology and aesthetics. See www.inchcapeaudi.co.uk for full information.

Mid Kent Living 61 Competitions Light way to shape up Laser Lipo is a non-invasive and safe procedure to reduce stubborn fatty areas and cellulite. WIN Our Lasers can also help improve the A 3 Session appearance of stretchmarks and rejuvenate the skin by stimulating the production of collagen. Laser LipO The Laser Lipo Diodes emit low level laser energy, which penetrates the skin to a depth of Course approximately 8-9mm. This is just deep enough to reach the subcutaneous fat layer. worth £99 The membranes (cell walls) of the fat cells (known as 'Adipocytes') are disrupted and develop tiny pores (holes) releasing the contents into the space between the fat cells (the 'interstitial space'). AMELIAS CLOSET The contents of the fat cells (fatty acids, triglycerides and water) spill out from the broken cell membranes and are released into the interstitial space. This mechanism Name: of action is not 'liquefaction of fat', it is the instant emptying out of the cells rather Address: than the destruction of them. (referred to as Lipolysis) The intra-cellular fat causes the cell to lose its round shape by changing the permeability of the cell membrane. This does not affect the neighbouring structures such as skin, blood vessels and peripheral nerves. What is Laser LipO? Tel: On average our clients lose between 1.5 - 3 cms per area in one session. Subject to medical questionnaire Email: You can view their new website at www.ameliascloset.co.uk or make a booking on 01732 874440. Send your entry to Amelias Closet competition Mail Publications Ltd, 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT. AMELIAS CLOSET Closing date: 1st Dec 2015 To opt out of receiving information 7 QUEEN STREET, KINGS HILL, KENT ME19 4DA about special offers please tick box. Your Christmas Dinner – WIN all under one roof. A Christmas At MB farms you will find all the very requirements. MB Farms offers a best of local food and drink. A veritable friendly, helpful service and is Turkey and A-Z of products to tease the taste buds. committed to providing unsurpassed all the Trimmings Fresh fruit and vegetables, a selection of quality with value-for-money. Plus the fruit juices, wines, beers and spirits, experienced butchers are happy to Including sausage meat, cordials, specialist teas and coffee, jams, advise you about cooking your chosen stuffing, pigs in blankets preserves, chutneys, cheeses, free- cut of meat. and a gammon joint. range eggs, bread, confectionary and Worth over £100 celebration cakes, a full range of home-made pies Name: and quiches, smoked Address: products, award winning sausages, hampers made-up to order, barbecue packs ...and much much more all under one roof.

Tel: Complemented by the high-quality butcher's shop, Email: providing the finest cuts of Send your entry to MB Farms Competition meat produced to your own Mail Publications Ltd, 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT. Stockbury & Faversham Closing date: 30th November 2015 To opt out of receiving information Visit their website at www.mbfarms.co.uk for further details. about special offers please tick box.

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Mid Kent Living 63 ‘Our reputation speaks for itself’ windows : doors : conservatories We are a local business that believe the key to success is “reputation”; that is why we like to distance ourselves from other companies in our sector and the way they work. If you would like a quality finish and competitive price without the hassle give us a call. NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN (OPEN: Monday to Friday: 8am - 5pm. Saturday: 9am - 1pm) 1a Brunswick Street East Maidstone ME15 7UX

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