insideKENT Magazine Issue 98 - May 2020 | Page 6

WELCOME In and amongst the craziest, saddest and most challenging times we are subtly reminded of better times ahead and reasons to be grateful. The uninterrupted birdsong heralding the change of the season; the fall of perfect spring blossom; the gentle bee pollinating the next bountiful crop; the show of doorstep solidarity as we clap those who deserve the most recognition and remember those who have sadly fallen; the team whatsapp meme banter when we miss our office routine; and the littlest hug (even if virtual) after yet another lockdown day. And in and amongst a time of uncertainty, loneliness, and anxiety (and the utter hellishness of home schooling and “can I have another snack”), also comes love, friendship, solidarity and support, and a strength of community and county spirit. RAINBOW FOR THE NHS BY LYLA READY AGE 5 We are proud that this issue of insideKENT focuses on some of those businesses, producers and suppliers that have kept Kent moving, that have diversified against the odds, that have kept providing a wondrous supply of fresh produce, who have united together to support each other. In conjunction with Produced in Kent, we have shared the stories of some amazing producers from p13, and you can find out how to Help Kent Buy Local on p14. We are proud to support some of our amazing chefs and restaurants (oh to be able to eat out again…), not only by sharing details of local delivery and takeaway offerings, but by bringing their kitchens to yours; with a range of delicious chef’s special dishes to make at home from p23. from your local farm shop? Why not use this time to start your own vegetable garden with our ‘Grow Your Own’ feature on p40. Perhaps all this time cooking has you planning your dream kitchen, if so, be inspired by this season’s top kitchen trends on p34. And If all that lockdown baking and making will have you rolling back to reality (those brownies…. *sigh & stuffs face*) then don't miss our at-home exercise tips on p47. Talking of being at home (do we do anything else atm?)… we also have advice for homemade face- masks on p42, lockdown locks on p44, and even the top additions for your own home office on p38. may be eating, drinking and non-essential travel...); visiting the amazing attractions and entertainment venues; exploring castles, gardens, parks, and beaches; dining and drinking in our fantastic local restaurants, cafes, and bistros; staying in sumptuous hotels and cosy B&Bs; and shopping in our local shops and stores. But we must look forward to those better days to come, and they will, and when they do, those days finally come, those wonderful businesses that make Kent great will be there ready and waiting to welcome us all back with open arms, and we will be there to tell you all about them. Stay home and stay safe Kent! Inspired by the wonderful Garden of England produce being delivered to your door or collected Of course, we, like you, so miss being out in our wonderful county (it turns out our favourite things The team at insideKENT www.insidekentmagazine.co.uk Publisher Adam Ready Editor Samantha Ready Features Editor Sara Stephen Features & Online Content Editor Lisamarie Lamb Senior Designer Dave Leo Yogore Graphic Designer Lorna Morris Graphic Designer Kareena Ross-Cumming Senior Account Manager Jerry Barrett Account Manager Nadene Weed Account Manager Anna Lockyer Administration Manager & Fashion Editor Karlene Gannon Contributors Allister Barsby, Andrea Barker, Ben Hughes, Charlotte Vohtz, Craig Edgell, Dave Hedges, Evelyn Duro, James Palmer Rosser, Jerome Hillion, Katie Myers, Lauren Dilworth, Macknade, Nicholas Johnson, Patrick Hill, Samuel McClurkin, Sarah Crichton, William Prole Cover © Crispin Alexander, Castle Farm, Sevenoak insideKENT Magazine is published by Sideways Media Ltd, Coachworks, Dover Place, Ashford, Kent TN23 1HU www.sidewaysmedia.co.uk For general enquiries, please contact [email protected] or 01233 226519 For all advertising enquiries, please contact Adam Ready on 01233 226519 or email [email protected] © Copyright 2020. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Neither the publisher nor any other person associated with the production and publication of this magazine make any guarantees, warranties or claims as to the accuracy, currency or truthfulness of any of the contents of this magazine. No part of this magazine may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without the publisher’s written consent. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited editorial, images or photographs published. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. Publisher is not responsible for any variation in image colour due to printing processes. 6