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whitstableimpTHE

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ISSUE 17 MAY 2010

MONEY OFFAT SAMPHIRE

OyOysterComedyARTS AT THE HORSEBRIDGECAMINEWHAT’S ON?GIG GUIDE

Tim Stubbings Photography

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Holiday Home From Home

And it’s not all ‘buckets and spades’. Yes, there are idyllic homes in sun-drenched getaways - like Zauri View in Goa, which sleeps up to 12 - but there is also Chalet Verjus in the French Alps for the winter sports fanatics, and other locations include Lanzarote, Spain, Morocco, The Caribbean, and Cyprus - and the list is growing.

Low-cost airlines have made organising your own holiday a very easy and affordable option, and having access to the property owner means you know exactly what facilities are available when you arrive.

Local knowledge is worth its weight in gold - you can plan your stay before you depart, know what to do, where to eat and what to look out for.

For details on what’s available, or if you own a suitable property and are interested in letting it, call Deborah on 01227 277883 or 0784 102 1207 www.holidayhomefromhome.co.uk

Deborah Mylcrist has been letting holiday homes through Hillcross Estates in Whitstable for several

years and has built a thriving business with more than 50 properties on her books. But where do Whitstable locals go to get away from it all? The answer to this question was the seed of Deborah’s new business, holiday homes that were bought to be used by their owners.

“It’s like a boutique holiday club, all the property owners are known to me personally,” Deborah explains, “and I have been to many of the properties personally. If the property is described as fi ve minutes from the beach than it IS fi ve minutes from the beach. The thing to remember is that these properties are used by the owners for their own holidays; they were bought because their owners fell in love with them, and wanted to return time and again to relax and unwind. The photos are honest pictures and the properties are as described.”

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Where do people who live in a ‘holiday-town’ go on holiday? Somewhere fabulous!

14 WHIT IMP 0310.indd 1 16/04/2010 15:42

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WELCOME TO THE MAY ISSUE OF THE WHITSTABLE IMP!A

fter a promising start, the spring weather seems to have turned a bit chilly again but, ever the optimist, I’m sure by the time you

read this that things will have warmed up a bit. And I hope this issue of the IMP will warm your cockles too - we have interviews and articles galore, an issue so overladen we didn’t use up precious space elsewhere and, instead, are listing all of our IMP draw winners here:

MP3 players: Lindsey Goodbun, Rachel Richardson, K. D. Powis, Sharon Annoot, Joyce Philpott, Lynn Weston, Simon Barker, Ron Dolman, Michael Dennick and Dena Outram.

Jessica Resner (9) won Dosh Archer’s books

for her twin brothers Reece and Ryan (5); Mr M

Newell won Mrs Harris’ Book; and Bob Phillips,

Antony Galt and John Baker each won a copy of

Trials & Tribulations.Congratulations to all our lucky winners!As ever, keep the feedback and letters coming in -

it’s a much better magazine with your input.

All the best from The IMP Team

The Whitstable IMP, PO Box 290, Whitstable CT5 9AH

SALES: Mel BirkettFREEPHONE 0800 44 88 309

mel@the-imp.co.uk

DESIGN: Adam Borehamwww.reactionvm.co.uk

PRINTING: Newman Thomsonwww.newmanthomson.co.uk

PUBLISHERS: IMPPO Box 290, Whitstable, CT5 9AH

EDITOR

Christina Birkett – Christina started working in media 13 years ago but had never truly immersed herself in editing,

writing and publishing until she started work on The IMP. It was a steep learning curve but totally worthwhile, and she loves her job. It’s

truly rewarding and, importantly, flexible enough to fit around her three young daughters. And it’s great knowing what’s on and when, so

she can plan her days - and even the odd night out! christina@the-imp.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Chris Haydon – Chris is 19 years old and has lived in Whitstable his whole life. Currently studying Film at the University of Brighton,

Chris is an avid film fan and buff, and plans to go to the National Film School after University to study Directing Fiction Film and Documentary.

He loves writing film reviews, and will be writing reviews for the IMP between course work and writing for the university’s paper, ‘The Pebble’.

Malissa Taylor – South African-born Malissa is passionate about three things; Mamahood, Music and Mother

Earth. She spends most of her time consumed by these and feels that her responsibility is to ensure that each is celebrated by

everything that she does. She recently moved to Whitstable, and she hopes to submerge herself in the community, something

which she believes is essential for her wellbeing and that of her family.

Georgie Mind – Georgie is 18 and has lived in Whitstable most of her life. Currently studying A levels at Canterbury College

in English, Art History, Philosophy and Psychology, she hopes to start a degree course in Art History next year. Georgie is very passionate

about promoting arts in the community and thinks that the diversity of the wonderful Whitstable art scene should be celebrated!

Lucy de Pledge – Mother of two and erstwhile estate agent, Lucy is now forging a career for herself in PR and band

promotion, looking after up-and-coming local bands. A metalhead who spends most of her her spare time at gigs (among other things)

Lucy will be keeping IMP readers abreast of festivals in Kent this year. Contact her at ldepledge@live.co.uk or 07887 907 821.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole is prohibited without prior written consent from the Publisher. Opinions expressed in the editorial are not necessarily those of the Editor or Publisher. IMP does not accept responsibility for the advertising contents, or endorse or recommend any of the companies or products featured; nor shall IMP be liable for any damage caused to or losses suffered by any person who relies on the information published in this magazine. © Independent Media Publications.

03.indd 1 15/04/2010 23:44

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Backfit.indd 1 19/03/2010 08:39

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You may or may not be aware that choirs can be very political organisations. Cliques, almost. It’s nerve-wracking joining one and having to learn all the politics from scratch. Kate didn’t seem to be political, though. She was the first person to speak to me when I joined the Canterbury Singers, she made me feel very welcome, and we’ve sat together ever since. And, as far as I was aware, Kate was apolitical.

But there’s politics, and then there’s Politics.

It turns out that Kate is the wife of our MP,

Julian Brazier. With the election looming,

Kate seemed the perfect candidate for this month’s

Day in the Life, and took time out from her various

roles - part-time PA to Julian, mother of three,

keeper of chickens, and wood-burning stove sales

lady (among other things) - to talk to the IMP.

Kate was introduced to Julian by her father,

who had known the Braziers for many years,

as both men had served in the same regiment.

You might even have called it an arranged

marriage of sorts, since Julian and Kate

have known each other since she was eight

and he was eighteen. They were married in

1984, moved to their home “in a windy valley

between Chartham and Petham” in 1986, and

Julian was elected in 1987. Their boys followed

quite quickly; twins William and Alexander in

1990, and John in 1992.

Since John started school in 1997 Kate has

worked part-time for a small local company

doing site visits for woodburning stoves, chimney

linings, fireplace design, and range cookers. “It’s a

lovely job,” Kate explains, “as I meet lots of

people and see over 300 houses a year. The

work is quite seasonal, so I am very busy in

the autumn and winter, and not so frantic in

the spring and summer. I can also fit it around

family life/politics and Julian’s work.”

Work has always had to fit around school and

holiday times - and has always involved about

two days’ work a week for Julian - keeping his

weekend and recess diary and handling all his

constituency casework in several areas: City and

County Council, education, housing and police,

to name but a few.

Julian stays in London from Monday to

Thursday evenings (unless he’s on recess)

and has done since his political career

started - throughout the boys’ childhoods.

“One of them once asked him why he wasn’t

at home in the evening like other dads,” Kate

recalls, “but he did get recesses. Now it’s the

dog, the chickens and me until everybody

comes home. I love having the boys’ friends

to stay, and cooking enormous meals for

hungry and appreciative teenagers.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF... KATE BRAZIER

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“We took the decision that the boys and

I would be based here, as our main home,”

Kate explains, and she has always coped with

this arrangement, even when the twins were

small, and then, after John was born, with three

children under the age of three.

Even these days, with the boys grown and

almost flown the nest, a typical day for Kate still

starts early: “Whoever gets to the newspaper first

has first go, so it pays to be up early.” Kate then

lets the chickens out of the run (they have the

run of the garden during the day) and when not

working for Julian she goes on visits until about

3pm, trying to fit lunch in between somewhere.

Kate’s chimney and stove work involves visiting

people at home, working out what they want

and pricing up the cost of installation. “Much

of it is problem-solving - chimneys or fireplaces

that don’t work, people who don’t know what

they can have,” she explains. “I particularly enjoy

designing fireplaces and recommending good-

looking and efficient stoves.”

The constituency covers Canterbury,

Whitstable and villages, and Kate’s stove work

also takes her into many different places for

visits, Whitstable being one of her favourites: “I

love Whitstable. It has some fabulous shops,

and it is always a place I like visiting for work,”

she enthuses. And the first view of the sea from

Borstal Hill always cheers her up.

Afternoons are spent walking the dog, typing

and emailing stove quotes or keeping up with

Julian’s emails. If Kate’s alone in the evenings

they are spent “out, doing things.” (‘Things’

being choir, pilates or TA.) If Julian and the boys

are home, Kate will cook ‘proper food’. Last

thing at night she checks the chickens are in

bed, and Julian calls every night he is in London

to catch up with the day’s events.

Thursday afternoons and Fridays Kate gets

all the typing done, as Julian is only home to

sign letters on a Friday or Saturday. “I arrange

visits for him on Fridays to get some peace in

the office!” Kate admits. “He has surgeries every

third Saturday morning, and canvasses on those

afternoons - election or no election. Evenings in are

more relaxed. Weekends are spent signing letters,

gardening, work phone calls and family visits.

When the boys are home, there are mountains of

washing - last week I did 17 shirts in one go...”

Home life really is feast or famine for Kate, and

Julian’s work affects everything - what happens at

weekends, when they can go on holiday, who has

to play chauffeur during the week. “Work does not

stop - letters and enquiries are continuous - the

only time it stops is in the part of Scotland where

there’s no phone coverage!”

With the election approaching fast, Kate’s life

is likely to change up a gear. “I will probably be

canvassing with Julian, plus delivering leaflets, but

my constituency casework and stove visits continue

just the same. Julian will be home every night for

supper, which means I’ll have to up my game on the

food front,” she jokes. From what I know of Kate, I

don’t think that’s going to be a problem.

Christina Birkett

05-06 WHIT IMP 0310.indd 2 15/04/2010 15:34

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The IMP March 2010.indd 26 18/02/2010 11:34

ART IN WHITSTABLE

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The IMP May 2010.indd 15 16/04/2010 15:14

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After serving in the Falklands War, Nick left the Army and travelled the world for eight years, ending up in Vancouver in 1990,

having lost his back-pack and passport. “I had $14 dollars and no way of doing anything else so I went to get drunk. As you do...”

He met a bloke in the bar who was laughing within minutes - and suggested they go to a comedy club in town, Yuk Yuk’s: “In exchange for fi ve minutes of stand-up you could get free drinks all night,” Nick remembers. “It was a case of’ I will if you will’ - he called the hostel where I was staying and said - Monday - we’re doing it.”

Nick had a great time, despite not getting many laughs - and was completely relaxed, whereas his friend “got loads of laughs but hated every minute of it!”

And it was a bit of a Eureka moment for Nick. After fi ve weeks of doing stand-up every Monday and Wednesday (and quite exhausted by this time,

as he didn’t realise you could ever repeat material - so he was constantly changing his act) he was entered into Yuk Yuk’s competition: ‘Canada’s best new comedian’ - and came second.

“And that was my downfall,” Nick admits. “It was reported in the papers - ‘London Drifter wins Comedy Award’ - and the prize was a trip to America. I had my new passport by then but something raised a fl ag somewhere and there were suddenly work permit issues. I didn’t have one for Canada OR America,” he laughs.

This was only a temporary setback for Nick, who still hadn’t caught on that you could repeat material and had taken to writing prompts on a white beer can: “Skol or Sapporo, so I could read what I’d written - but I didn’t like the lager so I’d take the top of with a can-opener and fi ll it with rum and coke...”

You’ll have noticed some rather big names in comedy at The Playhouse recently, and it’s all thanks to one man - Nick Wilty. He took some time out from his hectic life to tell me about himself over egg and chips (his, not mine) in the Tudor Tea Rooms. And when you hear how he broke into comedy you’ll understand why he’s called the globe-trotting comedian...

When comedy came to town

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He’d also turn to newspaper cuttings for material - “Reality with a twist, always topical” - and, once the work permit situation was sorted, was back to his globe-trotting ways.

Nick has performed on every continent but Antarctica - in some 114 countries. After performing in Jakarta, Shanghai, Manilla and Borneo, he was in Bali on holiday with Bill Bailey when the bombs went off. He’s performed with all sorts of ‘big names’ such as Ricky Gervais and Eddie Izzard. And he’s even sung ‘Lazy Sunday Afternoon’ by The Small Faces with Squeeze (the lead singer, Glenn Tilbrook, is also a friend and sang at Nick’s wedding reception) at a fund-raiser for Charlton Athletic’s new stadium. Normally he leaves the singing to his wife Maxine, though - she sings locally as ‘Steve Boltz & Maxine’ and also runs the Hope Music Festival near Biggin Hill (www.hopefestival.co.uk)

“I met Maxine at Glastonbury,” Nick explains. “We got on so well, I proposed the next day and we got married three months later. In leopard-skin. With about 350 of our friends, all in leopard-skin too!”

After spending a romantic weekend in Bournemouth the couple agreed that they wanted to live by the sea, with Whitstable the obvious choice, and they moved here a year ago. Maxine manages the Sense charity shop in the High Street - and it was at the Sense fund-raiser in The Playhouse that I saw Nick for the first time.

“It all came about by chance,” he explains. “We’d just moved here and there was an open day at The Playhouse. I was just interested, so I went for a look around, and asked if they did comedy.”

They’d had limited success when they tried comedy

before, so Nick suggested that he hire The Playhouse

himself - and take all the risk. He called friends Harry

Hill and Jo Brand, they agreed to come, and the Sense

fund-raiser which emerged was a sell-out.

There have been more sell-out shows at The

Playhouse since, with Paul Merton, Barry Cryer

and Ronnie Golden, and Nick has now been asked

to do a show in the Hammersmith Apollo or The

London Palladium, with some exciting comedians

in mind. He couldn’t confirm anything but names

such as Jack Dee, Michael McIntyre and Lee

Evans came up in conversation...

It seems that the seaside jaunt which indirectly

brought Nick and Maxine to Whitstable was a good,

good thing. There are more comedy shows booked

at The Playhouse (Nick Wilty Presents OyOyster

Comedy), Nick is co-ordinating comedy events

for the Oyster Festival this year, and his PR arm,

OyOyster Promotions, has already had enquiries

from several theatres asking him to promote shows.

And as well as all that, Nick comes across as

a thoroughly good bloke - generous with his time,

very chatty and easy to talk to, and with a genuine

fondness for all things Whitstable. Look out for his

next shows, you’ll definitely have a laugh.

For more information on OyOyster Comedy, join the group on facebook.

For shows at The Playhouse go to: www.theplayhousewhitstable.co.uk

To find out more about Sense go to: www.sense.org.uk

Christina Birkett

9-10 Entertainment WHIT.indd 2 15/04/2010 15:36

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The IMP April 2010.indd 40 18/03/2010 16:55

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With its unassuming frontage and shabby-chic interior, Samphire doesn’t immediately jump out at you

as somewhere for gourmet food. But Rob Taylor, the new chef, shares the same mantra as some of the most passionate, famous, and award-winning chefs around: “Seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients...” Familiar words - because every chef worth their salt agrees - and the first words out of Rob’s mouth.

Having recently taken the helm, Rob is keen to make his mark on the place, while remaining true to the modern British food which has been on the menu since its doors opened four years ago.

Like the ingredients he’s so passionate about, Rob is also local, and trained in Thanet College before setting out to earn his stripes working in a number of fine dining establishments around the UK, as well as a stint in Australia. Today, between busy services, Rob is preparing new dishes and taste-testing with owner/manager George Lister and day to day manager Lizzie Sanders.

“Consistency is important,” Rob explains. “Anyone can prepare a great dish, but can they do it over and over again in a busy service - to the same standard? By the same token there is no point in creating a masterpiece if it takes two hours

Seasonal, locally- sourced ingredients...

Samphire 4 High Street, Whitstable, CT5 1BQ Tel: 01227 77 00 75

Arrive for

dinner before 6:30

any day in May and

each member of your

party will receive a

complimentary glass

of fizz.

12-13 Samphire.indd 1 16/04/2010 15:10

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to do,” he continues. “Presentation is important but we have a small kitchen here and our main focus is on the flavour - it has to be. Meticulous presentation does impress but the flavour is what you remember. And with the change in season the menu must be updated.”

Michelin stars are not on the menu (not yet, anyway...) but watch this space - Samphire is one of the eateries that has earned Whitstable its foodie reputation.

By day, the restaurant has a good mix of people popping in for coffee, mid-week tourists who have just happened upon the place, and locals who are in the know and come in for the superb full English breakfast, a wholesome fish pie, or whatever else tickles their fancy.

When the sun goes down and the Supper Menu goes up, the place transforms to an altogether more intimate room - still nothing pretentious, just simple elegance. Reservations are written in chalk on the scrubbed pine tables, each illuminated with a flickering candle.

The menu is a mixture of old favourites such as seared scallops, or potted white crab with a modern twist - this is not smothered in butter, rather served with toast and a sorrel salad. Or how about ham hock

and fig terrine? Or the whipped Wealdway goats’ cheese with beetroot and roasted walnuts? These are just the starters; mains include braised short rib of beef, panfried filet of smoked pollock with mussels, roast wild duck with lentils and shallots, or leek and Ashmore suet pudding. And it would be a crime not to mention the desserts - local rhubarb crème brulee, sticky toffee pudding, red wine poached pear with common ice cream or a selection of local cheeses.

Samphire is familiar to locals and tourists alike in its enviable position between Wheelers and The Duke of Cumberland on Whitstable High Street.

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Samphire 4 High Street, Whitstable, CT5 1BQ Tel: 01227 77 00 75

12-13 Samphire.indd 2 16/04/2010 15:10

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Leigh’s debut crime thriller, Cut Short, sold out

twice in six months and the second in the

series, Road Closed, will be published this

June, followed by Dead End - with a scene set in

Whitstable - in 2011.

Cut Short received glowing praise from many

reviewers and a growing buzz on the internet, even

attracting the attention of international best-seller

Jeffery Deaver, who said: “Cut Short is a stylish,

top-of-the-line crime tale, a seamless blending

of psychological sophistication and gritty police

procedure. And you’re just plain going to love DI

Geraldine Steel.”

Leigh has personal connections to this area,

having spent four years as a student living in

Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay. She is

booked to give talks and signings every weekend for

the time being, but hopes to fit in a return visit after

Road Closed hits the shelves, so look out for her...

Did you see yourself as a writer before you

chose to study English at UKC, or is writing

something you decided to do later on?

I studied English because I enjoy reading, without

a clue that I would end up writing books myself.

I had no ambitions to write but an idea occurred

to me one day, I started to write it down, and was

hooked. It surprises me now that I didn’t discover

my passion for writing sooner.

When you decided to write books was

crime fiction your first choice of subject?

CUT SHORT is the first in my series of crime

thrillers and the first story I have ever written.

I’ve heard that most authors have to get past

many rejections before finding a publisher.

Was this the case for you?

I sent my story to three publishers who specialise

in crime fiction, without any serious expectation

of hearing back from any of them. Two weeks

later a publisher called me to express interest and

three months later I signed a three book deal. It all

happened very fast.

I’m sure that between your first concept of the

story and final publication there were edits

and rewrites - so how similar is the final story

to the one you first planned on writing?

The only real difference is the balance of writing

between my villain and my detective, Geraldine

Steel. I was fascinated by my killer and wrote

Crime writer Leigh Russell visited Whitstable recently to research her latest book, and took time out of her hectic schedule to talk to the IMP over breakfast in Elliotts - before heading off to a live interview on BBC Radio Kent and a book signing at Waterstones.

A life of crime...

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pages and pages about him. Consequently I

didn’t write enough about my detective. My

editor felt that, as the main character who will

continue through the series, my detective needed

to engage the readers’ interest more. I could see

the sense in that, so I cut some of the detail about

my killer, and built my detective up more. I ended

up telling exactly the same story but different

elements of it are emphasised. I am very happy

to listen to criticism where it makes sense to me.

How else can I hope to improve as a writer?

There are two more books in the Geraldine

Steel series so far - are you hoping for more?

Cut Short has been selling so fast, with two

reprints in six months, that it looks as though the

series will run for a while. The second in the series,

Road Closed, will be published in June, I am

currently writing the third, and my publisher has

already asked for a fourth book in the series.

Finally, is there anything you can you tell us

about the Whitstable scene in Dead End?

You will have to wait and see! I haven’t written the

chapters yet, but I know exactly what is going to

happen, and I made copious notes today. All I’m

going to reveal for now is that a character will walk

through the harbour area. I’ve made a sketch and

lots of notes, so hopefully my description will be

reasonably accurate. Meanwhile, I hope residents of

Whitstable read Cut Short and Road Closed. Each

of the books stands alone, as they follow different

police murder investigations, but the detective’s

character develops through the series. Readers will

feel they know my detective better when they read

Dead End, with its Whitstable connection, if they’ve

read the first two books in the series first.

You can buy a copy from Amazon at: http://

www.amazon.co.uk/Cut-Short-DI-Geraldine-

Steel/dp/1842432710 and hear Leigh read an

extract on Youtube at: http://www.youtube.

com/watch?v=wW3Ixmq3OyA

Leigh has kindly donated five signed copies of

Cut Short for IMP readers - to enter the draw,

send your name and address to christina@

the-imp.co.uk with the title Cut Short - or write

to PO Box 290, Whitstable CT5 9AH - we will

announce the winners in the June issue.

Christina Birkett

A life of crime...

14-15 Interview WHIT.indd 2 15/04/2010 15:38

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The IMP May 2010.indd 11 16/04/2010 14:22

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On Saturday April 10 2010, Whitstable’s Horsebridge Arts & Community Centre celebrated its sixth anniversary by hosting a free community open day which, among other things, included taster classes, children’s activities and Arts and Crafts stalls, and attracted more than a thousand visitors on the day.

It’s not unusual for the Horsebridge to welcome more than a thousand people through its doors over an average weekend - and hundreds of

people every day through the week. The centre is free to enter and open and accessible to everyone from 9am–9pm (6pm Sundays) every day except Christmas.

Steve Clinton, Communications Co-ordinator for the Centre, said: “Over the past year more than 100,000 people have visited the centre to see and enjoy for themselves the many resources the centre provides, including exhibitions in the two galleries, balcony café, workshops, dance classes, baby and children’s classes, interest groups, Adult Education, Citizens Advice Bureau, music, comedy and poetry nights - the list just goes on and on!

“Over the last six years the Horsebridge has firmly established itself in the rich tapestry of Whitstable society and has captured the hearts and minds of Whitstable’s locals,” he continued.

When news came earlier this year the Horsebridge was facing further funding cuts the

community reacted: “The support the centre received was truly incredible,” Steve recalls. “The membership of the Friends of the Horsebridge scheme doubled in the space of a month, a tremendous feat and testimony to support among Whitstable’s residents. People recognise the Horsebridge as a great community resource, as Whitstable’s centre for the arts.”

The Horsebridge is a charity with a voluntary board of trustees and is partly funded by Canterbury City Council. “Though this funding has been reduced year on year, the centre has actually increased its revenue,” Steve explained, “as it has established itself and become more popular and well-used. The centre has also managed to keep costs down,” he continued, “but it’s not been easy by any means! It’s accomplished by a lot of hard work by a lot of dedicated people and continues with the support and help of the community. The Horsebridge benefits greatly from a pool of volunteers and welcomes anyone who’d like to volunteer their time working in a positive, arts and community environment.”

Horsebridge Arts & Community Centre

17-18 Arts WHIT.indd 1 15/04/2010 15:41

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The two art galleries at the Horsebridge are in great demand and are booked out well in advance. Unusually, the centre does not have a strict vetting procedure for shows; the galleries are a community resource for anyone to exhibit their work and with no commission taken on works sold.

The centre will be taking gallery bookings for 2011 from July 1 this year and, like all the rooms and spaces in the centre, the galleries are available for almost half price for those living in the local CT1-6 postcode area - an offer the centre has provided to locals since they opened.

Each year the Horsebridge reserves three weeks in its galleries over the Oyster Festival period for its A1 Open show. The A1 Open is an exhibition for anyone to enter artworks of any medium. The only stipulation is that works must be of A1 size when mounted or framed. With over 120 pieces of work submitted by as many artists this creates arguably the most exciting, diverse and largest collection of artworks in Whitstable! Entry forms for 2010 will be available from the Horsebridge from May 1.

Similarly, the Horsebridge used the A1 format to host ‘A2 Open’ for 11-16 year olds in February this year, as reported in the IMP, to great success.

Steve explained: “That offered a fantastic opportunity for young artists to showcase their work in a professional gallery environment. The centre is looking to repeat the A2 show on a much larger scale across both galleries later this year and offers an open invite to any schools or young artists to contact the centre if they are interested.”

Further information is available at: www.horsebridge-centre.org.uk If you tweet, you can follow the Horsebridge at www.twitter.com/horsebridge

There is also a Facebook group: Support the Horsebridge Arts & Community Centre - and you can stay in touch with what’s happening by asking to join the centre’s free emailing list at info@horsebridge-centre.org.uk

Christina Birkett

17-18 Arts WHIT.indd 2 15/04/2010 15:41

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The IMP May 2010.indd 24 16/04/2010 15:18

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Diagnosed in 2007, since then Mikey has spent most of his time at Great Ormond

Street Hospital. Soon after diagnosis he faced nine months of intensive chemotherapy - three days on, two weeks off. In 2008 he began his fi rst three-week intensive course of radiotherapy. Three weeks of staying in hotels and being sick and tired, before going into remission that October. But following an ultrasound in March 2009, Mikey’s family was given the devastating news that the tumour had returned. After a failed attempt to remove it, chemotherapy started again. Mikey responded well but caught a fungal infection in his lungs - treatment had to stop and Mikey was very ill.

In February of this year a scan confi rmed that the tumour had returned and Mikey was back in hospital again. So far, all his illnesses and treatments have left Mikey 70% deaf and with not much energy to play or run around. Some days he can’t do much at all.

Mikey’s mum, Kelli, explained the illness to me: “Neuroblastoma is very rare - a fi ve in a million chance. The cells are four times more powerful than normal cancer cells, and the older diagnosis is reached the lower the chances of survival.”

The government made funding available for 170 children but unfortunately Mikey didn’t get through. So now his family are facing the monumental task of raising the £250,000 needed to get Mikey the treatment he needs.

His mum, Kelli Cullen, is cheerful and up-beat and you can tell that she draws a lot of her strength from her family. Aunty Gemma (Kelli’s sister) is heavily involved and looks after the website: mikeyhines.com as well as the facebook group. They are a close bunch, and all totally focussed on getting Mikey well.

So far their efforts have been outstanding, from awareness bracelets which sell for £2

The MarvellousMikey Hines

each, a sponsored walk from Sittingbourne to Teynham on May 1, gigs in the Upper Red Lion (Hernhill) and Coach and Horses (Whitstable) with Led Gremlin (Mikey’s mum Kelli is the lead singer) and even a production of ‘Funny Money’ at The Whitstable Playhouse.

And people’s generosity has been amazing. A farm in Ashford has been providing free organic produce, air purifi ers and light machines have been donated, and the wrist-bands frequently sell-out and have to be re-ordered.

The family is doing everything they can to back-up the hospital treatments as well, by keeping his home environment as free from chemicals, germs, and stress as possible. Kelli explains: “Mike has two nutritionists putting together the best supplements and food we can get him. Two air-purifi ers drastically cut down his infection-risk, and a ‘fresh air buddy’ goes around Mike’s neck so when he goes out he also has the best protection from outside bugs.” This helps with the day-trips his family organises to help his emotional health and keep him happy and positive.

Fund-raising events are happening locally all the time - keep up to date via the website www.mikeyhines.com or Mikey’s facebook group: I’M HELPING MIKEY HINES REACH 250K - ARE YOU?

If you have any fund-raising ideas, Mikey’s family would love to hear from you. Contact Mikey’s Aunty Gemma at gemma.cullen977@btinternet.com

Find out more about Neuroblastoma at: www.nsoc.co.uk

Christina Birkett

Mikey Hines is seven years old, the youngest of three siblings, and for the last three years he has been suffering from Neuroblastoma.

each, a sponsored walk from each, a sponsored walk from Sittingbourne to Teynham on May 1, gigs in the Upper Red Lion (Hernhill) and Coach and Horses (Whitstable) with Led

each, a sponsored walk from

20 Mikey Hines.indd 1 15/04/2010 15:42

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The IMP May 2010.indd 13 16/04/2010 15:21

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Camine – Acoustic driven Celtic music‘Pure roots music... magical songs of passion... intoxicating.’THE TIMES

‘Creating something of a stir on a large scale, stylish and imaginatively done.’ROCK ‘N’ REEL MAGAZINE

‘It is clear the music is played with joy from the first to the last note.’NEW FOLK SOUNDS (Netherlands)

‘…catch the band before their world tour.’KENT ARTS NOW

Twin sisters, Ramona and Zinta Egle, first emerged on the British acoustic scene as front women for innovative and seminal roots group Jacob’s Ladder, which joined Zinta and Ramona’s songs in splendid matrimony with influences from jazz, pop, European folk traditions and contemporary acoustic music.

Jacob’s Ladder released the much-acclaimed album ‘Kite’ which was enjoyed by all kinds of people from all kinds of places.

In Camine Zinta plays guitar and vocals, Ramona plays whistles / low whistles, fiddle, Celtic harp and

sings. Andy Renshaw is on percussion - bodhran, darabuk and djembe – and regular guests with Camine include Tim Edey of Lunasa on melodeon and Chris Taylor on melodeon and bouzouki.

Camine’s sound has been described as ‘acoustic-driven Celtic music’. It is firmly rooted in the traditional music of the Celtic nations, and the songs and tunes from Ireland and Scotland. Camine also flirt with traditional European musical, with the result that the music oscillates between energetic jigs and sublime songs with a sense of seamlessness, played out on an ancient stage set in a modern world.

Camine play regularly locally, and throughout the United Kingdom and Europe, and have built a loyal following. Their live performances are spell-binding and during these performances, it is clear that Zinta and Ramona expose their incredible closeness and awesome energy. When they play, it is almost as if they are the only ones in the room. Their relationship, musically and in all other aspects, is electrifying. What an honour to be privy to their world - a playful world filled with beautiful music from all parts of the globe. Please be sure to check the gig guide to find out when Camine are playing next.

Thanks to Camine’s website which is: www.camine.co.uk

Malissa Taylor

22 Music IMP 0310.indd 1 15/04/2010 15:44

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The IMP May 2010.indd 28 16/04/2010 15:25

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It’s fairly common nowadays that Hollywood greats have a go behind the camera rather than in front. Many of our favourite stars have tried their hands at directing, including Clint Eastwood, George Clooney, Mel Gibson and Tim

Robbins. But now it’s the lady’s turn, and what better woman to show her newly obtained skills than Drew Barrymore?

She has starred in many of our best-loved films of the 90s - will her debut picture, ‘Whip It’, which boasts fairly big stars and an interesting narrative, live up to our expectations?

The film follows Bliss Cavendar (Ellen Page), a young teen who’s fed up of the constant pressures her mother Brooke (Marcia Gay Harden) places upon her. She’s pushed into various fashion and beauty pageants that only lower her self-esteem. When she gets a flyer to see a Roller Blade Derby in nearby town Austin, she rushes to see the action. The rollers are called the Hurl Scouts, an all-female sports team who love crashing, bashing and having a ball. Bliss tries out for the team and is accepted. She becomes her roller alter-ego ‘Babe Ruthless’. Her fellow team-mates ‘Smashley Simpson’ (Drew Barrymore) and ‘Maggie Mayhem’ (Kristen Wiig) help and guide her into becoming the ultimate roller girl, but ‘Iron Maven’ (Juliette Lewis), leader of a rival roller gang has other ideas.

I was incredibly excited to see this film; it’s a picture I’ve looked forward to for a while. I’m a huge Barrymore fan but I’m an even bigger fan of Ellen Page. In every picture she’s left me lost for words. Her delivery, timing and acting skills are uncanny. Her most famous picture ‘Juno’ (2007) is one of my all-time favourites. So I entered this picture with high hopes, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Barrymore has clearly taken her time with this movie; her direction looks stylised and practised. and she seems just as elegant off-screen as she is on-screen.

‘Whip It’ is a warm and funny film, a small and quirky comedy that’s a pleasure to watch. I was deeply impressed by the way it’s meant to empower women, and show that you don’t have to settle for good looks, you can strive for more - a positive and important message for the modern young woman.

The film doesn’t waste time, it throws you in and out of the action like a boomerang, and a dull moment never really seems to appear. It also sports a killer soundtrack that will have you nodding your head while you watch.

The performances are a knock-out. Page is as wonderful and entertaining, as always. Barrymore and Wiig are loveable and amusing, and Lewis is fantastic as the sinister yet amusing villain.

‘Whip It’ is a film that many probably won’t see - it’ll get caught under the waves of other films filling our screens at the moment. But if you get a chance to go to the cinema, I hugely recommend this little diamond that’s hiding in the rough of Hollywood.

VERDICT: 5 out of 5 – It’s fun, fast-paced and extremely entertaining. Smiles all round for all ages and interests.

Chris Haydon

Whip it Cert: 12A FILM

REVIEW

24 WHIT IMP 0310.indd 1 15/04/2010 15:45

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The IMP March 2010.indd 15 18/02/2010 11:29The IMP March 2010.indd 15 19/02/2010 09:57

10% off all food at the Dove InnDargate, ME13 9HB 01227 751 360 Simply present this voucher at the end of your meal to have 10% discounted from your bill. Offer valid Monday to Friday for the months of March and April 2010, excluding Bank Holidays. The coupon must be completed to be valid. There is no cash alternative Promoter: The Dove Inn, Dargate, ME13 9HB.

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The IMP March 2010.indd 25 18/02/2010 15:45

The IMP April 2010.indd 14 18/03/2010 17:42

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BUBBLE BITS AND BOBS

The Oyster Singers are based in Whitstable and are a Choir of 30 people, aged from 25-90 years old. Local musician Emily Peasgood is their Musical Director and they have a fantastic repertoire which includes Coldplay, Rod Stewart and Jules Buckley, Songs from around the World and Classic Musical Theatre, as well as the more traditional Choral Repertoire.

Over the last three years every performance has been fully booked to bursting point! BUT - they are in desperate need of men. They currently have fi ve regular gents (four of whom are pictured here) who sing Tenor and Bass between them, and who would love some more company - especially in light of the choir’s plan to enter the ‘Top Choir Kent 2010’ competition next year. If you are interested, call Emily on 01227 282 556.

Their next concert is Monday 26th July at St John’s Methodist Church, Whitstable at 7.30pm (as a part of the Whitstable Oyster Festival). Check out our Oyster Festival Listings and gig guide nearer the time.

IMP scoop: Musical Director Emily Peasgood performs every Thursday at Deco 5 Wine Bar on Whitstable High Street, where she features a local guest musician to perform alongside her each week. On April 29 she hinted at the possibility of 30 extra special guests! You heard it here fi rst...

Are you a local band or venue in need of more live gigs? Local Lucy de Pledge has set up and runs new venture LDP promotions from her home in Chestfi eld. A newly-formed company, LDP offers a professional promotional and gig-booking service for musicians and bands. Currently working with many well-known local artists including Thunderbuggs, GristleFridge, and Emily & The Beats, LDP are also able to offer a gig booking service in the area for bands from further afi eld. They have a portfolio of both covers and original music of all genres of top quality music. Further information at: www.ldppromotions.com, myspace.com/ldppromotions, join the group on facebook or email ldepledge@live.co.uk

The Lindley Players present - HOTEL PARADISO, by Georges Feydeau - May 11 – 15 at 7.45. This play is The Lindley Players entry into the 2010 Kent Drama Festival and will be adjudicated after the Saturday night performance, and is directed by Peter Hunt: ‘A Door-slamming French, Farce’.

from her home in Chestfi eld. A newly-

26-27 Bubble bits.indd 1 15/04/2010 15:45

‘The farces of Feydeau are as implacable and forthright in intention as a child with a peashooter. They concern the comic horrors that beset ordinary men and women in their determined pursuit of their follies and foibles’. For more information contact The Playhouse Whitstable on 01227 272042 or at www.theplayhousewhitstable.co.uk

Transition Town Whitstable Nurture Group is gearing up for its wine making workshop on Saturday May 8 at 7pm. It will give a step-by-step, hands-on demonstration of all the processes involved in home winemaking. The workshop costs £15 with limited places, so call Helen on 01227 772874. TTW has also launched a monthly business mentoring and networking group, run by Yvonne Fuchs, a business adviser to small business and social enterprise. For more information contact her on 07782 210304.

Whitstable Folk Club sees Po’Girl come to town - stopping at the Royal Native Oyster Stores, The Horsebridge, on May 15, during their 23-date UK tour in May and June. Hailing originally from Canada, Po’Girl weave a blend of musical infl uences, sweetness, grit and soul into their fresh and original sound. Since the band’s birth in Vancouver, BC in 2003, they’ve been winning devoted and growing

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numbers of fans across four continents and thirteen countries with their powerful, passionate and spirited live shows.

Po’Girl showcases a wide array of instruments - from gutbucket bass, accordion, clarinet, banjo, dobro, guitar, to electric bass, glockenspiel, piano, harmonica, bicycle bells, drums - and they all frequently trade off instruments with each song. Their fl uid and joyous musicality is one of the group’s most endearing and irresistible features. Catch them May 15, from 7.30pm. Tel: 01227 277670. £12/£10. www.whitstablefolk.co.uk

A Runaway success? Following her success in training 20 male and female beginners to successfully complete the Canterbury Sports Relief event on March 21st, Canterbury Sports Development Council have asked Sarah Hinton, the group leader, to run another series of beginners’ groups to help men train for the Man on the Run event on June 6 and women to train for the Race for Life events in Canterbury (June 27) and Herne Bay (July 4). The new series of beginners’ groups started in April but still has spaces, and the programme aims to build up gently from walking to being able to jog for 30 minutes without stopping. Sarah says of the club nights: “Anyone can join, whatever age, size or ability they are. The best thing about us is that we don’t put any pressure on anybody and never judge anyone by their level of fi tness. If we can get a few more men and women jogging then the group will have been a success!” For more details call Sarah Hinton on 01227 830984 or email sarah@barkinmad.co.uk.

26-27 Bubble bits.indd 2 15/04/2010 15:45

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theimp Any letters or emails sent in to the IMP may be included in The Letter Box – if you would not like your letter published, please state this clearly.

Write in with your points of view, questions or feedback, email editorial@the-imp.co.uk

or write to: The Whitstable IMP, PO Box 290, Whitstable CT5 9AHWe print as many of your letters as we can each month, but cannot guarantee to include all letters we receive, and may not be able to print letters in their entirety. The views expressed in the Letter Box are the readers’ own and not necessarily those of the Editor or Publisher.

THE LETTER BOXDear Editor,

I hope you will fi nd this local community group notice interesting! Please fi nd below, a press release from Whitstable Women Writers, which I think readers will be interested to know about:Whitstable Women Writers’ successful stall at the Horsebridge Open Day on April 10th attracted lots of interest and new members. Leafl ets, poems and information were given out, with visitors enthusiastically taking part in writing exercises and creating stories and poems to post on the walls.

The group began in Whitstable nearly a decade ago and has become established as a vibrant part of the community arts scene, with the aim of promoting and enhancing local women writers’ creative writing, performance and publishing projects. Constructive feedback is on offer, along with writing exercises, shared ideas and information and encouragement in setting individual targets. The atmosphere is supportive and informal, and writers in all genres – scriptwriting, articles, poetry and prose of every kind - are welcome. WWW also hold writing workshops with guest tutors and public readings; in August they will host an evening of poetry and fl ash fi ction in Canterbury featuring visiting author Caroline Gilfi llan.The group is taking advantage of the new self-publishing and Print-on-Demand technology to produce a new series of publications; fi rst off the press is a novel, ‘Dreamboat’, by Frankie Green, with cover by local artist Trish Flynn, and poetry collections and an anthology are in the pipeline. ‘Dreamboat’ is available from the local section of Whitstable’s Harbour Books, online through Amazon or direct from dreamboat@meteorites.plus.com

The group meets regularly on the fi rst Monday of every month and welcomes new members. If you are interested in knowing more, have a look at their blog: http://whitstablewomenwriters.blogspot.com

Whitstable Women Writers are contactable via Jill on 01227 771126

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’d like any further information.

Sincerely

Ms Frankie Green for Whitstable Women Writers

on the walls.

The group began in Whitstable nearly a decade ago and has become established as a vibrant part of the community arts scene, with the aim of promoting and enhancing local women writers’ creative writing, performance and publishing projects. Constructive feedback is on offer, along with writing exercises, shared ideas and information and encouragement in setting individual targets. The atmosphere is supportive and informal, and writers in all genres – scriptwriting, articles, poetry and prose of every kind - are welcome. WWW also hold writing workshops with guest tutors and public readings; in August they will host an evening of poetry and fl ash fi ction in Canterbury featuring visiting author Caroline Gilfi llan.The group is taking advantage of the new self-publishing and Print-on-Demand technology to produce a new series of publications; fi rst off the press is a novel, ‘Dreamboat’, by Frankie Green, with

Whitstable Women Writers are contactable via Jill on

Dear Editor

Firstly can I say how good the

IMP is and how lucky Whitstable

is to fi nally have something that

focuses on Whitstable.

Our association [The Whitstable

Twinning Association] is

wondering whether you would

like to do a feature in the IMP

about us. We would particularly

like to to lay to rest the myth

about being labelled the same

as ‘councillors on Jollies’ as

we are a totally self-funded

organisation and have an events

list to prove this.

Gillian Godley, Secretary WTA

Thanks for writing in to

us, we would be happy to

feature Whitstable Twinning

Association in a future issue,

and will be in touch.

28 letters.indd 1 15/04/2010 15:46

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The IMP Oct 09.indd 33 16/04/2010 17:39

Our unrivalled knowledge of the local area and our experience in bothselling and letting property means we can help you make your move.

SELLING. An unbeatable package whichmakes selling your home easier• Experienced and enthusiastic staff

• Proven marketing expertise and local knowledge

• Professional marketing material including sales particulars,displays, andpress advertising.

LETTING. A comprehensive and flexibleservice for all landlords.• An effective 3 point approach to letting: market, advise, protect.

• Quicklet, our bespoke system, gets your property on the market in hours.

• Fully referenced tenants means less hassle later.

• Choose from 3 service levels: Tenant Find, Rent Collect or Fully Managed.

*Source: Hitwise March 2009.

Are you thinkingof selling or letting?

For more informationcontact us today on

www.your-move.co.uk

YOUR MOVE is a trading name of: your-move.co.uk Limited which is authorised and regulatedby the Financial Services Authority (FRN:310467) for mortgage and non-investment insuranceadvice. Registered Office address: Newcastle House, Albany Court, Newcastle Business Park,Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7YB. Registered Number: 01864469. VAT number GB842795983. Weare founder members of the Ombudsman for Estate Agents, there to protect your interests.

Whether you are selling or letting,you’ll get extensive internet coverageon www.your-move.co.uk (the UK’smost visited estate agency website*)and selected leading property portals.

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YOUR MOVE is a member of the following regulatory bodies: Ombudsmanfor Estate Agents and Association of Residential Letting Agents. Our codeof practice is approved by Office of Fair Trading. <insert tel no>

Your move becomes single largest estate agency brand in uk

Local estate agents, Your Move, is celebrating following the announcement that it is now part of the single largest estate agency brand in the UK today and will join 335 other branches across the UK in a combined effort to support local customers.

Matthew Curd, Valuations Manager for Your Move in Whitstable commented: “It’s very exciting news for Your Move but also for the local team. The fact that our parent company LSL has managed to weather the storms of recent times and has reported industry leading trading results means we clearly benefit from being part of a bigger organisation - as do our customers in terms of the competitively priced products and services and significant marketing opportunities we offer.

“We’ve already got together a great local team who, because of their individual knowledge and experience of the local market, have a proven track record of success. Now, however, because we are part of a bigger concern we can work with colleagues in other branches across the country in selling or renting our properties and attracting customers from further afield to our branch.

“Your Move itself has embarked on a massive nationwide advertising and PR campaign, as many would expect from an agency of our size, which we are supporting at local level too. It means even more people will get to know the name and come to appreciate the value of dealing with a larger agency and, as a result we should have even more buyers and sellers coming ‘on board’ which benefit each other. The sheer fact that we have good geographical coverage, for example, means we have a greater appreciation about what is happening in the market as a whole and how it could impact on the local market. Added to this we also, of course, pride ourselves on making sure we keep up with the changing legislation and government developments to ensure customers can take advantage of any opportunities that arise or react, in time, to any imminent changes in the market. We build our reputation on trust and good quality customer service and this is one way we can demonstrate this.

“Our commitment to the development of our products and services has already been acknowledged with the recent announcement that we won three Gold Awards at the highly regarded Estate Agency of the Year Awards 2009 where we won Gold for Best Large Estate Agency, Best Large Lettings Agency and Best Technology/Web - complimenting the fact that we already have the most visited estate agency website in the UK today. We’re now not only bigger but, we believe, we’re even better.

“All in all 2010 has started on a high point for Your Move and it’s a position the local team certainly want to build on - we’ve got the support of LSL, the recognition of the industry and the size and stability to succeed and we simply can’t wait to tell even more Your Move customers why bigger can be better.

If you’d like to find out how Your Move can help you, simply contact your local team at Whitsable or telephone them on 01227 367161

YOUR MOVE - Triple Gold Award Winners - Estate Agency of the Year 2009Estate Agent of the Year 2009 : Gold Winners : Best UK Large AgentEstate Agent of the Year 2009 : Gold Winners : Best UK Large lettings AgentEstate Agent of the Year 2009 : Gold Winners : Best/Technology/WebEstate Agent of the Year 2009 : Silver Winners : Financial ServicesEstate Agent of the Year 2008 : Gold Winners : Financial ServicesEstate Agent of the Year 2008 : Gold Winners : MarketingEstate Agent of the Year 2008 : Silver Winners : Best UK Large AgentEstate Agent of the Year 2008 : Silver Winners : Financial ServicesWinner Best Estate Agency Chain and Silver Winner Scotland (Dalgety Bay)

01227 367161

Your move.indd 1 16/04/2010 15:57

Our unrivalled knowledge of the local area and our experience in bothselling and letting property means we can help you make your move.

SELLING. An unbeatable package whichmakes selling your home easier• Experienced and enthusiastic staff

• Proven marketing expertise and local knowledge

• Professional marketing material including sales particulars,displays, andpress advertising.

LETTING. A comprehensive and flexibleservice for all landlords.• An effective 3 point approach to letting: market, advise, protect.

• Quicklet, our bespoke system, gets your property on the market in hours.

• Fully referenced tenants means less hassle later.

• Choose from 3 service levels: Tenant Find, Rent Collect or Fully Managed.

*Source: Hitwise March 2009.

Are you thinkingof selling or letting?

For more informationcontact us today on

www.your-move.co.uk

YOUR MOVE is a trading name of: your-move.co.uk Limited which is authorised and regulatedby the Financial Services Authority (FRN:310467) for mortgage and non-investment insuranceadvice. Registered Office address: Newcastle House, Albany Court, Newcastle Business Park,Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7YB. Registered Number: 01864469. VAT number GB842795983. Weare founder members of the Ombudsman for Estate Agents, there to protect your interests.

Whether you are selling or letting,you’ll get extensive internet coverageon www.your-move.co.uk (the UK’smost visited estate agency website*)and selected leading property portals.

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YOUR MOVE is a member of the following regulatory bodies: Ombudsmanfor Estate Agents and Association of Residential Letting Agents. Our codeof practice is approved by Office of Fair Trading. <insert tel no>

01227 367161 whitstable@your-move.co.uk

Your move.indd 2 16/04/2010 15:58

34-35 Fosters DPS.indd 1 18/02/2010 11:00

34-35 Fosters DPS.indd 2 18/02/2010 11:00

SOLD BY CENTURY 21

The IMP May 2010.indd 30 16/04/2010 15:03

Ramsgate Hotel £450,000 Chestfield 5 Bed £579,995

Chestfield 4 Bed £450,000 Herne Hill 3 Bed £475,000

Chateaneuf France 250,000 eurosBroad Oak 5 Bed £525,000

SOLD BY CENTURY 21

The IMP May 2010.indd 31 16/04/2010 15:03

Whitstable 4 Bed £325,995 Whitstable 5 Bed £445,995

Whitstable 2 Bed £179,995 Whitstable 2 Bed £205,000

Whitstable 2 Bed £159,995Tankerton £19,000

The IMP May 2010.indd 32 16/04/2010 15:03

Make a fresh startSell through the worlds No1 Estate Agents

• Free Home Information Pack (HIP) when instructed on our standard fee

• Already have a HIP ? We will provide solicitors fees FREE to act on your sale

• Your own personal Estate Agent and business owner who will act for you throughout the entire sales process

• More exposure for your property locally using multiple window displays

• More exposure for your property locally by advertising in multiple publications & newspapers covering Whitstable, Herne Bay, Canterbury & Faversham

• More exposure for your property nationally by advertising through our network of over 55 UK Century 21 offices including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Canterbury, Folkestone, Maidstone and nationally through Greater and Central London and the North.

• More exposure for your property nationally by using multiple web sites including Rightmove.co.uk, Findaproperty.com Primelocation.com, Propertyworld, Century21uk.com and Globrix

• More exposure for your property internationally through Century 21.com and our 8000 offices worldwide

Terms & Conditions apply to the free hip and free legal offer

The IMP May 2010.indd 33 16/04/2010 15:03

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the gig guideThis information is intended as guide only, and may be subject to last-minute changes. Contact details are provided for all venues.

MAY

Faversham

2 - The Carpenter’s Arms - JAZZ SUNDAY - 4.30pm, FREE entry, 01795 890234

2 - The Anchor - RADLERS - 7-10pm, FREE entry, 01795 536 471

5 - The Chimney Boy - FOLK CLUB - JOE BROUGHTON & KEVIN DEMPSEY - (£^/7)- 8pm. Call Mary on 01795 534 368 or 07980 203992

6 - The Carpenter’s Arms - CARTER’S ALIBI - 8.30pm, FREE entry, 01795 890234

7 - The Plough - GET CARTER- FREE - 9pm. 01795 890256

7 - The Red Lion, Baddlesmere - THE THUNDERBUGGS - FREE entry, 9.30pm, 01233 740 320

9 - The Anchor - LIVE MUSIC - 7-10pm, FREE entry, 01795 536 471

12 - The Chimney Boy - FOLK CLUB - 8pm. Call Mary on 01795 534 368 or 07980 203992

13 - The Carpenter’s Arms - SELKIE - 8.30pm, FREE entry, 01795 890234

16 - The Bull Inn - KARAOKE - 8pm, FREE entry, 01795 534740

16 - The Anchor - 29 WAYS - 7-10pm, FREE entry, 01795 536 471

19 - The Chimney Boy - FOLK CLUB - 8pm. Call Mary on 01795 534 368 or 07980 203992

20 - The Carpenter’s Arms - GOOSEBUMPS - 8.30pm, FREE entry, 01795 890234

21 - The Plough - TIM HAY - FREE - 9pm. 01795 890256

23 - The Anchor - IVAN & THE ALLSTARS - 7-10pm, FREE entry, 01795 536 471

26 - The Chimney Boy - FOLK CLUB - 8pm. Call Mary on 01795 534 368 or 07980 203992

27 - The Carpenter’s Arms - AON - 8.30pm, FREE entry, 01795 890234

Whitstable

1 - Deco 5 - RICHARD ROZZE’S BEARING EDGE TRIO - 01227 770079

1 - Coach & Horses - MICHAEL KERR - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

1 - East Kent - BLUES FUSION - 9pm, FREE entry, 01227 272 018

1 - The Old Neptune - COMPLETE UNKNOWNS - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

2 - The Plough, Swalecliffe - EMILY & THE BEATS - 8pm, FREE entry, 01227 792 428

2 - The Old Neptune - FLUTATIOUS - 5-8pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

2 - The Smack - KARAOKE - 9-11pm, FREE entry. 01227 273056

2 - Whitstable Brewery Bar - CROW - 8pm, £5 on the door. - 01227 772157

2 - The Duke - JAZZ POLICE - 3-5pm, FREE entry 01227 280 617

2 - Two Brewers - TORTILLA ARMY - FREE entry, 9pm, 01227 272150

3 - The Duke - MOVEABLE FEAST - 2-5pm, FREE entry 01227 280 617

5 - The Smack - OPEN MIC - 9-11pm, FREE entry. 01227 273056

6 - Deco 5 - MUSIQUE FEMME - Emily Peasgood and female guest - 01227 770079

6 - Whitstable Labour Cliue - FOLK CLUB - ROY BAILY - 8pm, £7/5. 07895 683567

6 - The Ship - KELLY’S HEROES - FREE, 9pm. 01227 264740

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the gig guide 7 - Deco 5 - KIT CURTIS 5 - 01227 770079

7 - The Duke - BAD PENNIES - 9pm, FREE entry 01227 280 617

7 - Coach & Horses - BLUES FUSION - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

7 - East Kent - METROPOLIS - 9pm, FREE entry, 01227 272 018

8 - Deco 5 - TIFFANEY WELLS - 01227 770079

8 - The Smack - TVC - 9-11pm, FREE entry. 01227 273056

2 - Two Brewers - LED GREMLIN - FREE entry, 9pm, 01227 272150

9 - The Duke - MIGDEN & GIBSON - 3-5pm, FREE entry 01227 280 617

9 - Coach & Horses - BONA-TUNES - 5-8pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

9 - The Old Neptune - TENER DUENDE - 5-8pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

13 - Deco 5 - MUSIQUE FEMME - Emily Peasgood and female guest - 01227 770079

13 - The Ship - ESSENTIAL DUO ACOUSTICS - FREE, 9pm. 01227 264740

14 - Coach & Horses - JAZZ - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

14 - The Old Neptune - JONES BOYS - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

14 - The Duke - BLUES BANDITS 9pm, FREE entry 01227 280 617

15 - Deco 5 - ZED HEADS - 01227 770079

15 - The Old Neptune - STEVE BOLTON - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

15 - Royal Native Oyster Stores - WHITSTABLE FOLK CLUB - PO’GIRL - 7.30pm, £12/£10, 01227 277 670

16 - The Old Neptune - MATT BROOKS - 5-8pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

16 - The Duke - DAVE PEABODY & BRENDAN POWER - 3-5pm, FREE entry 01227 280 617

16 - The Smack - KARAOKE - 9-11pm, FREE entry. 01227 273056

16 - Two Brewers - ONE LOVE - FREE entry, 9pm, 01227 272150

20 - The Ship - CHICORY TIP - FREE, 9pm. 01227 264740

21 - Coach & Horses - BLUE IMP - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

22 - The Old Neptune - CANARY WHARF - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

22 - Coach & Horses - MUDDY SHOVELS - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

23 - The Old Neptune - JIM & JEFF - 5-8pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

23 - Two Brewers - RUN VT - FREE entry, 9pm, 01227 272150

25 - East Kent - LEFT OF THE DIAL - 9pm, FREE entry, 01227 272 018

28 - Coach & Horses - BOW STRINGS - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 264 732

27 - The Ship -CROOKED STYLE - FREE, 9pm. 01227 264740

29 - The Old Neptune - DONE TOL’ MAMA - 9-11pm, FREE entry 01227 272262

30 - Two Brewers - KIT CURTIS 5 - FREE entry, 9pm, 01227 272150

CLASSICAL

MAY

8 - ASHFORD CHORAL SOCIETY - Beethoven: Mass in C; Bernstein: Chichester Psalms; Poulenc: Gloria. Saga Pavillion, Enbrook Park, Folkestone CT20 3SE.

15 - WHITSTABLE SCOUT GROUP BRASS BAND - Methodist Church, Argyle St, 7pm, £4.50 01227 262210.

7-16 Sounds New Festival, Canterbury Christ Church University, ‘Symbolism and Numerology in Music – The Number 7’. Info at 01227 782244 (24 hour booking line).

14-16 - Sacconi Chamber Music Festival at St Mary & St Eanswythe’s Church, Folkestone. Tickets: 01303 858500.

To publicise your gig here please email christina@the-imp.co.uk or write to The IMP, PO Box 290. CT5 9AH.

Deadline for the June issue will be May 10

MAYGIGS.indd 2 15/04/2010 21:35

MAY 1-3 - ROCHESTER SWEEPS FESTIVAL http://www.kent.co.uk/events/rochester-sweeps-festival

High Street Rochester Kent ME1 1LX 01634 843666

JUNE 5 - ROCKFEST www.billmurrayevents.com Details TBC

11-13 - SELLINDGE MUSIC FESTIVAL www.sellindgemusicfestival.co.uk Band bookings – Jamie Boyd email: jamie@triptychevents.co.uk

18-27 STOUR MUSIC FESTIVAL Boughton Aluph, Nr Ashford www.stourmusic.org.uk

19-20 QFEST Quex Park, Birchington www.qfest.co.uk

19-20 - MARGATE’S BIG EVENT www.thanet.gov.uk/news/focus_on_news/margate_big_event.aspx 01843 577167/577638 events@thanet.gov.uk

19-25 BROADSTAIRS DICKENS FESTIVAL www.broadstairsdickensfestival.co.uk c/o Miss Sylvia Hawkes 01843 861827. 10 Lanthorne Road, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 3NH

19-Jul 4 - WHITSTABLE BIENNALE info@whitstablebiennale.com

JULY 2-11 - HYTHE FESTIVAL

9-11 - LOUNGE ON THE FARM www.loungeonthefarm.co.uk Merton Farm, Canterbury

18 & 19 - ASHFORD FESTIVAL IN THE PARK

22-24 - CANTERBURY BEER FESTIVAL gillandgerrykeay@btinternet.com Gill Keay 01227 463478

24-30 - WHITSTABLE OYSTER FESTIVAL Michelle 01227 862267

25 - RAMSGATE CARNIVAL 07999419623 www.visitthanet.co.uk

30-31 THANET ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL King George VI Park admin@thanetfest.co.uk

31-Aug 1 - WHITSTABLE REGATTA Tankerton Slopes 01227 274313

31-Aug 1 - MARGATE CARNIVAL margatecarnivalgroup@btinternet.com 01843 293733

MARGATE JAZZ FESTIVAL Details TBC

AUGUST 6-8 HEVY FESTIVAL - Change of location! Now being held at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. www.hevy.co.uk

6-13 - BROADSTAIRS FOLK WEEK info@broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk 01843 604080

14-15 - DOVER REGATTA gill@doverregatta.co.uk www.doverregatta.co.uk

16-21 - RAMSGATE REGATTA www.ramsgateweek.com info@rtyc.com

21-29 - HERNE BAY FESTIVAL liz.flynn@canterbury.gov.uk 01227 862406

SEPTEMBER 3-5 - ASHFORD BEER FESTIVAL Ashford Rugby Club cjakers@hotmail.com 01233 647274

4-5 - FAVERSHAM HOP FESTIVAL catherineherbert@swale.gov.uk 01795 417426

11-12 MOARE MUSIC Three Mariners, Oare 01795533633 info@thethreemarinersoare.co.uk

11-12 MAIDSTONE BEER FESTIVAL kvernon@kentlife.org.uk 01622 621242

OCTOBER 16-30 - CANTERBURY FESTIVAL Kent’s International Arts Festival, Canterbury www.canterburyfestival.co.uk 01227 452853 info@canterburyfestival.co.uk

NOVEMBER 11-13 - MEDWAY BEER FESTIVAL www.medwaybeerfestival.com

If you run a festival which you’d like to see included here, or if you have more details on any of the events above, please email editorial@the-imp.co.uk.

Lucy de Pledge

Kent festivals for 2010 We know you don’t mind travelling a bit to see and hear your favourite bands - so here’s a quick guide to the festivals in Kent this year to help you plan for sunnier times...

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what’s on? www.the-imp.co.uk what’s on?what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on?

THE MONTH AHEAD...

1 & 29 (bank holiday weekends) - Seaside Brocante - 10-5pm, St Mary’s Hall (Umbrella Centre). Masses of rustic seaside chic. Bigger stands in vintage garden. Furniture, Homeware, Vintage Designer clothes, jewellery, accessories & haberdashery. £1 admission, Cindy Mainwaring: 01227 773037

3 - Whitstable Museum - Canterbury & Whitstable Railway 180th Anniversary Event - 10-12.30, all ages.

14 - Whitstable & District Horticultural Society, 7.30pm Janet Bryant - Growing in tubs & containers. UR Church, Middle Wall.

29 - Messy Church@Seasalter Christian Centre, 3.30-6pm. Enq: Jill Freeman 07733 070 933

31 - Bank Holiday Spring Fair - The Umbrella Centre, Oxford Street. Free Entry. To book tables call 01227 274880, £10/table.

June 1 - Family Fun Morning at Seasalter Christian Centre, 10-12, £2 per child, everyone welcome! Enq: Jane 01227 276923

SEE GIG GUIDE p37 FOR GIGS AND CONCERTS

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES

Activities and times may change, please check before you arrive.

Babies

Breast Feeding & Weaning Peer Support Group – Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Mondays from 12:15 -2:15pm. 01227 263998

Baby bounce and rhyme – Whitstable Library, Oxford Street, first Tuesday of each month, 11-11.20am. 01227 273309

Breastfeeding Clinic – Joy Lane Children’s Centre – Tuesdays, monthly, appointment only. 01227 263998

Baby Massage - Swalecliffe Children’s Centre, Wednesday 9.30-11, 21st April for 4 weeks. Bookable at Reception 01227 2727103

Drop-in baby clinic – Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Thursdays 9.30-11am, no appointment necessary, call in to see the health visitor, chat and have your child weighed. Call 01227 263998

Baby Massage - Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Thursdays 12.00-1pm. 01227 564421

Baby Massage – Whitstable Health Centre – 5-week courses, Friday am. 50p per session, bring your own massage oil. Call Carol Fellowes on 01227 594417

Health Visitor 1-1s - appointment only, through GP/Health Clinic, Swalecliffe Children’s Centre - 01227 272103

PIPS - Joy Lane Children’s Centre - for families with children 0-5 with additional needs - Fridays 10am-12. Call 01227 263998 for more info

Breastfeeding Peer Training - Friday 12-3pm, Joy Lane Children’s Centre - call 01227 475550

Parent and Toddler

St Alphege Carer & Toddler group - Monday 9.15am at the school (Oxford Street) 01227 272977.

Arts & Crafts - Mondays 10-11am term-time only, prebook at Swalecliffe Children’s Centre - 01227 272103

Button Tots – Lucerne Neighbourhood Centre, Faversham Road. Mondays 10am-12, call Jane 01227 282732

3 Years Plus Family Group – Westmeads Infant School, Cromwell Road, Mondays 1.45-2.45pm. 01227 272995

Little Alfies – Seasalter Christian Centre, alternate Mondays 1.45pm, call 07733070933

Story Time – Swalecliffe Library, Herne Bay Road, Swalecliffe, Mondays 2-2.30pm, drop in or call 01227 792645

Messy Play Sessions – Mondays 1-3pm. Bring old clothes! Free of charge. Joy Lane Children’s Centre – 01227 263998

Art & Crafts 10-11am, term time only, prebook at Joy Lane Children’s Centre, 01227 263998

Playmates – Christian Fellowship Hall, Harbour St – Tuesday mornings 9.30-11.30. 50p per family. 01227 263393

Tots @ TEC – Tankerton Evangelical Church Hall, Northwood Road, Tankerton, Tuesdays 10-11.30am, ages 0-5, £1 per family. 01227 794328

Seasalter Christian Centre parent and toddler group – Tuesdays, 1.30-3pm, £1 per family. 01227 770257

Baby Bounce and Rhyme - Whitstable Library, 1st Tuesday of the month, 11-11.20am - 01227 273309

Parent & Toddler Group - drop in Wednesdays 9-11.30am, Toy Library every fortnight from September 16 - 10.30-11.30 - Swalecliffe Children’s Centre - 01227 272103

Little Lights – St Alphege Church, High Street, Thursdays, term time, 1.45-2.45pm, call 01227 770221

All Saints Parent and Toddler Group – Shirley Hall, Church Street – Wednesdays 1.15-2.45pm. 50p per family. Term-time only – Call Sue Smith 01227 471325

St Alphege Drop-in group - Wednesday 1.30pm at the school (Oxford Street) 01227 272977.

WHITSWHATSONMAY10.indd 1 15/04/2010 21:35

what’s on? www.the-imp.co.uk what’s on?

Little Oysters Pre-school storytelling and craft activity, Last Wednesday, 1.30-2.30pm. Whitstable Museum. £2 per child. To book: 01227 276 998

Parent and Toddler Group – Joy Lane Children’s Centre – Thursdays 9-10.30am and 11-12.30. 01227 263998

Messy Play - drop in Thursdays 1-2.45-pm, Swalecliffe Children’s Centre - 01227 272103

Heuristic Play - Joy Lane Children’s Centre, Thursdays 1.45-2.45pm. Drop in. 01227 263998

Chatterbox Baby and Toddler Group – St John’s Church Centre, Swalecliffe. Fridays 9.30-11.30am. 01227 792835

Swalecliffe Children’s Centre - Locomotion 9.30-10.15 (2-5) Baby Loco 10.20-10.50 (6 months-2) from 23rd April. Bookable at Reception 01227 272103.

Story time – Whitstable Library, Oxford Street. Fridays, 2-2.30pm, call 01227 273309

Friday Fun Group – Middle Wall United Reformed Church – 9.30-11.30am. Waiting list - 01227 771766 or 263959

Sing & Sign - Joy Lane Children’s Centre, Friday 1.45-2.20 for 7months - 2 1/2 years. 10 week course from 23rd April. 01227 263998

Dads’ group - Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Fridays 1-3pm. 01227 263998

Pre-school Children

Whitstable School Transition Group for children starting school at 4. Fridays 1.30-3pm. Penny: 01227 773155 transitionwhitstable.org.uk

School Children/After-School Clubs

Cricket - Saturday Colts - ages 6-11. 9.15am, £1per child, including drink. Register at http://www.whitstablecc.tripod.com or at Belmont Road ground on Saturday morning.

Homework Club - age 8+ - Whitstable Library - 3.30-5pm - 01227 273309

Homework Club - age 8-14 - Seasalter Christian Centre - 4-6pm - 07733070933

Irish Dancing - ages 5+ at the Parish Social Centre, Castle Road. Tuesdays from 3.30pm, Saturdays 10.30-12. Call Janice for details on 07895 457020

Joy Lane/Langton Lane Swimming Clubs. All ages and abilities, qualified instructors. Joy Lane Primary/Simon Langton School pools. 07817 171 524 joylaneswimming@live.co.uk

MUSIC LESSONS WITH EMILY - Lessons for Adults and Children in: Singing, Piano, Flute, Recorder, Guitar, Theory, Sight Reading / Singing and Songwriting. £14/30mins, £26/hour, first lesson 1/2 Price, 10% Discount on block bookings. Call Emily on 01227 282 556 or 07749 115 484. emilypeasgood@gmail.com

Whitstable Home Education Group Tuesdays 1.30-3pm. Penny: 01227 773155, transitionwhitstable.org.uk, moonmama@inflatablecookie.com

Whitstable Majorettes and Pom Teams - age 5+, St Peters Church Hall, Cromwell Street, Whitstable, Monday 4-6pm, £2 per session. 07900 478863

Adult Education

Story Sacks - Wednesday mornings, 10-week course starts in May, bookable at Joy Lane Children’s Centre, Reception - 01227 263998

FITNESS

NEW Adult ballet/contemporary dance classes starting from May 4 at 8pm. Tap, yoga & pilates also available - contact Helena for details: 01227 275 375

American Square Dancing at the W.I. Hall, Chestfield. Fridays 7:30-9:30pm. 01227 275455. Beginners Mondays 3-4.30pm.

Aqua Aerobics Mondays 4.45-5.45pm, Fridays 9.30-10.30am - Tree Tops Retreat, Wraik Hill, £4.50/class inc tea or coffee. Booking essential. 01227 280265, 07850 104560

Badminton courts at CCW available to hire Saturdays between 9am and 5pm. 07751 307708

Ballroom & Latin American Dancing, Tuesdays 1.30-3pm, Umbrella Centre, 01227 274880

Fitness to Music with bums, legs & tums - Mondays 12.15-1.15pm, Tree Tops Retreat, Wraik Hill, £4.50/class inc tea or coffee. Booking essential. 01227 280265, 07850 104560

Irish Dancing for adults - Women’s Institute Hall on Joy Lane. Mondays term time 8-9pm. Janice: 07895 457020

KEEP FIT BELLYDANCE - Horsebridge Arts Centre, Whitstable. Fridays 10am-11am. MAKE EXERCISE FUN WITH BELLYBEATS: a TOTAL BODY WORKOUT with bellydance moves. Improve your posture, body awareness and build up confidence. Horsebridge Arts Centre, Whitstable. Fridays 10am-11am. ALL AGES AND ABILITIES WELCOME. £5 (£4 concessions). 07979 553789 or email sophia.vr@virgin.net

Keep Fit for over 50s and less active - Wednesdays1.30-2.30pm - Umbrella Centre, 01227 274880

Low impact keep fit - Mondays 12.15-1.15pm, Umbrella Centre, Suzi: 07702 386176

PILATES CLASSES - Mondays 5:30pm-6:45pm at the Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Oxford Street, Whitstable.

Qualified and experienced Pilates teacher, specialising in postnatal and rehabilitation. £7 drop-in class or £35 for a block of six. (£5 concessions). I am also available for private sessions. 07979 553789 or email sophia.vr@virgin.net

Walk and talk - Wednesdays 10.30am from Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre: 01227 274880

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what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on?Yoga and Relaxation with Chrissie - Monday and Tuesday evenings 7-8pm and 8.15-9.15pm, Longfield Court Garden Room, Swalecliffe. Thursday mornings 9.25am. Whitstable Youth and Community Centre, Tower Parade. Friendly drop-in classes £6. Please ring Chrissie on 01227 275000

Yoga - Mondays 1.20-2.20pm, Umbrella Centre, Suzi: 07702 386176

Yoga - Mondays 1.45-2.45pm & 6.30-7.30pm, £4.50/class inc tea or coffee. Booking essential. Tree Tops Retreat, Wraik Hill, 01227 280265, 07850

COMMUNITY GUIDE

Clubs/Societies

Arts and crafts for adults - Thursdays 10am-12, Umbrella Centre: 01227 274880

Book club - NEW! - 3rd Thursday of the month, 7.30pm, Shirley Hall. Friendly group, new members welcome. Next book: ‘Smileys People’ by John Le Carre. Tim Mason 01227 272126.

Book club - 1st Thursday of the month, 6.30-9pm, Umbrella Centre. Movie every other month. 01227 274880

East Kent Model Railway Society - Wednesdays 7.30pm, Club house in the Old Dairy (by Castle Stores), Castle Road. 01227 275157

Flowers and Crafts Club - Tuesdays 7-9.30pm, Umbrella Centre, 01227 281138

Needles and Natter - Thursdays 2.30-4.30pm, Umbrella Centre, 01227 274880

Oyster Lacemakers - Mondays, 4–7pm, Umbrella Centre, 01227 276921

Oyster Singers - Every Monday (except Holidays) 7pm at CCW, old and new songs in 4 part harmony. 01227 793155

Reading Group - Swalecliffe Library, 01227 792645

Samba Pelo Mar samba band, Tuesdays 7-9pm at Whitstable Junior School. Call 01227 281838.

Scrabble Club - Mondays 10.30-12.30pm, Umbrella Centre, 01227 274880

Short Mat Bowls - Friday and Sunday evenings, Umbrella Centre, 01227 794600

Whitstable and District Horticultural Society - United Reformed Church, Middle Wall, 7.30 pm on second Fridays. 01227 265503Whitstable Indoor Bowling Club - open 9.30am-10pm. 01227 277 692

Whitstable Over 60s Centre, Waterloo Road (next to Baptist Church). Mon-Sat, 10am-1pm. Refreshments available. Drop in or call 01227 272093.

Whitstable Photographic Group – 1st & 3rd Friday each month, 8-10pm, Methodist Church Hall, Argyle Road. 01227 275936

Whitstable Short Mat Bowls Club - Fridays & Sundays 7.30pm, Umbrella Centre. 01227 794600

Whitstable Stroke Club - Fridays 3.30-5.30pm, Umbrella Centre, 01227 266827

Whitstable Twinning Association - 01227 793212 or JOGI102@aol.com

Whitstable Women Writers, first Monday of the month, 8pm, new members welcome, 01227 771126

Council Services

Recycling Information: 01227 862 247; Recycling Collections, Banks, Sacks; Domestic Refuse Collection; Dog Fouling: 0800 031 9091

HealthSWINE ‘FLU TELEPHONE ADVICE LINE: 0800 1 513 513

WEBSITE: www.direct.gov.uk/swineflu

Chestfield Medical Centre – 0844 477 3073Saddleton Road Surgery - 01227 272809

Seasalter Surgery - 01227 772327

Whitstable Health Centre – 0844 477 2566Estuary View Health Centre - 01227 284300

Seasalter Community Pharmacy - 01227 277744

Estuary View Pharmacy - 01227 277488

Out of Hours service – 0844 800 1234NHS Direct - including Out of Hours Pharmacies - 0845 46 47Blood Donation – 08457 711 711Stop Smoking Service - 0800 849 4444

Disability Information and Advice Line - Tel: 01227 771155

NHS Patient Advice and Liaison Service - 0800 085 6606

Local Policing

Police surgeries and meetings: www.kent.police.uk

Whitstable: Gordon Etheridge, with Sergeant Dave Brenchley on 01227 868028

Chestfield - PC: Steve Pope 01227 868028; PCSO: Abi Ellis 0777 222 6106

Gorrell - PCSO: Mark Harriott 0777 222 5966

Harbour - PC: Andy Camp 07980 683530; PCSO: Aaron Pedwell 0777 222 6035

Seasalter & Yorkletts - CSO: Aarron Newell 01227 868028

Swalecliffe & Tankerton - PC: Steve Pope 01227 868028; PCSO: Graeme Downes 01227 868028

Volunteer Services

Elderly or disabled and can’t access public transport? Whitstable Volunteer Car Scheme: 01227 264743

Volunteers Needed Whitstable Volunteer Car Scheme - drivers needed to take elderly or disabled to appointments. If you have time to volunteer please call 01227 264743

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what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on? whitstable what’s on?Whitstable Volunteer Centre - Volunteers recruited to work in many different charities. Contact volunteering@whitstablevc.org.uk or call 01227 772248

LOCAL SERVICES

Alternative Therapies

Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Swedish Massage, Ear Candles, Hot Stone Massage, Indian Head Massage. In the comfort of your own home or in Debra’s therapy room. Call Debra Maybourne, Holistic Therapist, 01227 276 881 or 07872 622 023

CHANGE YOUR LUCK – CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Do you feel you could make more of life? Whether you want to supercharge your confidence, become more relaxed or gain more control so that you can focus on creating the life YOU want, we can help. www.pureserendipity.co.uk ; 0845 579 4262

FOOT FRIEND - Caring Chiropody, the sole mate for your feet. The gentle foot health service in your own home. Visits within a 5 mile radius of town centre. Call Rochelle Lewis on 07974008120

Holistic Massage, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage.Treatment room in Whitstable; home visits within 3 mile radius. Gift vouchers, taster sessions and pamper events. Contact Liz Compton on 07931201148 or email CChasComp@aol.com, www.therapybythesea.co.uk

Hypnotherapy at Q Hypnotherapy, based in Whitstable. Details at www.Qhypnotherapy.co.uk. Call Lisa Barnett on 0800 612 8153

Hypnotherapy for Smoking is the least expensive within a 20 mile radius. Based in Chestfield. Call Peter Corrigan on 01227 792359 or email: peter.corrigan@tesco.net www.stopsmoking-kent.co.uk

Reflexology & Massage at Body Mind and SOLE - Denise Fasulo, MAR (Member of the Association of Reflexologists). Professional treatment in pleasant surroundings. Call Whitstable 01227 275855

Reflexology at Sole Indulgence for stress reduction, relaxation & better health. “If you haven’t tried it, it’s a must do.” Sarah, Whitstable. Gift vouchers available. New - Hot Stones Reflexology. Call Alison on 01227 272131 www.soleindulgence.co.uk

THE ACUPUNCTURE PLACE, WHITSTABLE - Acupuncture for pain relief, migraines, sciatica, back pain. Specialising in gynaecogical, fertility and IVF support. Member of BAcC. Contact: Amanda Thomas Tel:01227 265082 Mob:07763 566710 www.acupunctureplace.co.uk

THE HOLISTIC HEALTH PLACE, WHITSTABLE - Treatments available for adults & children. Homeopathy, Craniosacral Therapy, QX Allergy & Health Testing. Contact: Annette Stein - Tel:01227 265082 Mob:07813778027

Beauty

bbeautiful mobile beauty therapy & beauty room. Bridal make-up packages, Facials, O.P.I Manicures & Pedicures, UV Gel nails, Lash/Brow tints, Waxing, Individual lashes. Pamper parties and Teenage make-up parties. Gift vouchers available. Insured and a member of Associated Beauty Therapists. Call Rachel on 07784223287

Emphasising Beauty - Semi-permanent make-up. Eyebrows, eyeliner and lips. Eyelash extensions individually applied (silk and coloured available). Creative nail extensions, Jessica Manicures and Pedicures. Over 13 years experience. Qualified, insured and licensed. 07902877309 01227 264001 www.emphasisingbeauty.co.uk

Mobile Hairdressing for all the family. Cuts, colours, foils, children’s cuts and hair for special occassions. Call Vicky for an appointment on 07833 664 691/ 01227 272154.

Carers

Tender Loving Carers Domiciliary Ltd – Providers of Personal and Domestic Care to the elderly and younger less able within the community. For a FREE, no obligation assessment and enquiry, please call on 01227 772515. For employment opportunities please also call the number above. www.tenderlovingcarers.com

Childcare

Little Treasures Childminding - with 18 years experience as an Infant teacher and a registered childminder, I have excellent facilities and provide a wide range of fun and educational activities, tailor-made to address the needs of each individual child. For further information please call Janette on 01227 264681.

Fully-qualified local childminder - see thechildminder.co.uk or call Vicky on 077645 898 959

DAISY CHAIN NURSERY SCHOOL - we are open every day during term time from 9.15 to noon with extended hours on Mondays and Thursdays 9.15 to 3.15. We welcome visits - please phone for appointment, 07947 819 348 (nursery hours) 01227 773059

Computer Repair

Whitstable Computer Repair - All types of help with your PC, no call-out fee within 10 mile radius of Whitstable. Very competitive rates. www.WhitstableComputerRepair.co.uk or call 0800 224 8824

HDG Networks: the only Trading Standards-Approved and Microsoft-Certified computer repair and IT support company in East Kent, based in Whitstable. www.hdgnet.com / 08000 434638 / 01227 280282. Quote “IMP” for a £5 discount off your first callout

Counselling

Whitstable Counselling & Psychotherapy Centre. Feeling unable to cope and need somebody to talk to and think things through? Confidential, UKCP & BACP Registered with 15 years experience. Contact Deborah Gibbons on 01227 261159. Reduced rates for those on low incomes.

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Cromwell Road Counselling & Meditation Centre – Do you need to find different ways of coping with life? Do you need someone to listen? Counselling, Psychotherapy or Meditation could help; for Adults and Children. Phone Karin Heinitz/Christine McAllen, Tel: 01227 273580

Psychodynamic Counselling, Coaching, Clinical Supervision - Jacqueline Sirota MSc MBACP Senior Registered Practitioner, UKRC Registered Independent Counsellor. For more information call 07866 471412 or email jacqui.sirota@gmail.com

Curtain MakingAffordable bespoke curtain and blind making service. Free estimates and measuring service. Co-ordinated soft furnishings, kitchenware and fabric gifts. Fabric also available to buy. Call Karen Mansfield Originals 01795 535348 or 07903 193390

Home Maintenance

F.T.S. Electrical Installations, all aspects of electrical work undertaken. Home Buyers/ Landlord surveys and reports, and periodic inspections. Door entry and alarm systems. Fully Qualified and Part P and Napit registered, Call Paul Fletcher on 01795 539302 & 07885 587350.Flat Pack Rescue, a fast and efficient flat-pack furniture assembly service. Don’t risk DIY, call an expert! Paul 07801814511 www.flatpackrescue.co.uk

High Quality Painters and Decorators.With her skilled team, can transform your house, and work with you to create the look you want. 18 years experience, including Special Paint Finishes,Painted Furniture,Kitchens, Colour and Design Advise. Call 01795 539302 & 07970303610

Lady Painter & Decorator, 30 years’ experience, clean & tidy worker, no job too small. Call Kim on 01227 791 524 or 07792 195 411

Swann Plumbing Services is a small family-run plumbing & heating firm. We undertake all plumbing work from a leaky tap to a new boiler, please check website for a full list of services and local testimonials. Trading Standards Approved, OFTEC and Gas Safe Registered. 01227 262 585 www.swannplumbing.com

Family HistoryWho do you think you are? Would you like some help tracing your family history? Why not call me, Richard on 01227 281771 or e-mail rhove@tiscali.co.uk and I will be happy to discuss how I can help.

GardeningGardening/Property Maintenance - No job too small. Whitstable area only. Tree pruning, lawn mowing/tidying, hedge trimming, fencing, carpentry/woodwork projects for gardens. Call 07835 665 707

PartiesPartylite - Candles and Home Accessories? Quality fragrant candles in a variety of shapes, colours and sizes. Tri-Glow Reed Diffusers. Have an evening/coffee morning with friends and host a candle party. Monthly Hostess/Guest specials. Call: Karen 07956 575980 www.candlesulite.com

Jamie at Home - Forget tupperware its now Pukkaware! Have a fun evening with quiz, exclusive recipe (dvd) plus receive great benefits for hosting. The Jme range includes many lush but affordable house & home essentials. For party bookings, catalogues or further information. Call: Charlotte 07794120829 or E-Mail: jmekent@live.com

Retailers

*Ripple Farm Organics* ORGANIC & LOCAL - Crundale, Canterbury CT4 7EB. Boxes delivered to your area. 01227 730898 (answer-phone) www.ripplefarmorganics.co.uk

Sunlock Blinds - Blinds for home conservatory or office. Made to measure, vertical, venetians, wooden, rollers, fly-screens, outside canopies. Upholstery Foam also available. Home visits arranged, free no obligation quotes. Free fitting service. Family-run business 32 years, 01227 281191; 07828 564082

WeddingsBeautiful wedding cakes made to your specification. Go to www.chrissies-kitchen.co.uk or call Chrissie to arrange an appointment on 07511 009 757.

The ultimate bespoke bridal hairdresser, make-up artist and facialists in the comfort of your boudoir & hotel room. It’s like having your very own fairy godmother on your wedding day. For a consultation contact us on 07807 892 857

Wedding Singer - Make your day really special with beautiful classical music - available for weddings, christenings and any special occasion. Call Christina on 07511 009 757 or listen at www.myspace.com/christinabosanko

FURTHER AFIELD

UK

Emerald Quays, Shoreham-by-Sea Nr Brighton ‘Quayside’ is a 2 bedroom luxury apartment with indoor heated pool, spa and gym Sleeps up to 5. American fridge/freezer, dishwasher etc. £450pw April-June. For availability, pictures and rates visit all year: www.holidaylettings.co.uk/94431 Shoreham Beach. Call 07799 263765 /07771 858889

Abroad

Stay in our yurts, in the hills of Andalucia, southern Spain. 1hr Malaga, 30 mins coast. Perfect for walking, exploring local white villages, horse riding, relaxing. For more info please visit our website: www.yurt-holidays-spain.com. Email jackyfaulkner@hotmail.com, tel 0034 951321861.

To be included contact christina@the-imp.co.uk.

Non-profit listings free of charge, subject to space. Deadline for the June issue will

be May 10th 2010.

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Whitstable 22 High StreetTel 01227 773 890specsavers.co.uk

£10Cannot be exchanged for cash or used with any other voucher. Valid for one test booked on or before 26 June 2010 Present at time of test. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only.

Bring in this voucher or quote CODE 2646

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Call us now: 01227 281648

ALLBITS Plumbing SuppliesUnit 60, John Wilson Industrial Estate, Kent, CT5 3QT Whitstable

ALL Price Include VAT at 17.5%Opening Hours

Mon-Fri 7.30-5.30

Sat 9.00-4.00

IMPALA SUITEPan, Cistern and Seat,Basin with Pedestal £225

ZETO SUITEPan, Cistern and Seat,Basin with Pedestal

ODESSA SUITEBack to wall Pan & Seat, Semi-Recess Basin with 1 Tap Hole £165£250

TRIBUNE SUITEPan, Cistern, Seat

£120

MONICA SUITEPan, Cistern and Seat, Basin with Pedestal

£190

KAPELLO SUITEPan, Cistern and Seat, Basin with Pedestal

£250

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