Five Benefits of Cooking Together as a Family

Cooking can mean different things to different people—some see it as a daily task, others find joy in it, and for many, it’s just part of the routine. So, in today’s fast-paced world, where it can be challenging to find time to connect as a family, turning meal preparation into a shared activity can make all the difference. After all, it isn’t just about putting food on the table—it’s a chance to bond, learn, and create lasting memories.
Cooking together is a simple yet powerful way for families...

Park Mall Shopping Centre & Edinburgh Road Car Park To Be Demolished

Ashford Borough Council (ABC) has announced plans to demolish Park Mall Shopping Centre and the adjacent Edinburgh Road multi-storey car park as part of a wider town centre redevelopment.


Traders have been given until August 31, 2025, to vacate the premises, with the exception of Greggs, O2, and Kamsons Pharmacy, “whose units face onto Upper High Street and have longer-term leases.”


ABC stated that it “will work closely with existing Park Mall tenants and, where appropriate, seek to suppor...

The Enduring Terror of Stephen King’s 'It': Why Pennywise Still Haunts Us Today

Whether you’re a fan of the book, the 1990 miniseries, or the modern films, it’s undeniable that It has made a significant impact on the horror genre. With its blend of psychological terror, coming-of-age themes, and one of the most iconic villains in horror, It continues to captivate and terrify audiences decades after its debut. But why does this tale still haunt us? How has it evolved over time? And what’s next for the franchise?
Published in 1986, a decade after the success of ‘Salem’s Lot (...

Why Diversity in Children’s Media Matters

From a young age, the media we consume shapes how we perceive and understand the world and those around us. Greater representation in children’s media has proven to be a powerful tool for building empathy, breaking down stereotypes, and fostering a sense of belonging. While progress has been made, many parents continue to advocate for broader diversity in the stories and characters their children encounter. But how can parents effectively integrate this, and what real-world impact does it have?...

Local Artist Creates Ashford Mural To Mark Debut Album

Tenterden-based artist Mr Doodle has designed a mural for Ashford, Kent, described as “one of the world’s longest illustrations.”


The internationally acclaimed artist, also known as Sam Cox, created the 203-metre mural in just one day on Friday, December 6th.


Located at the junction of Avenue Jacques Faucheux and Beaver Road, the painted hoardings are part of the proposed Infinity development, a residential scheme previously referred to as the ‘Ashford Shard.’


Mr Doodle said: “While tra...

'Anna and the Apocalypse': A Zombie Christmas Musical That Hits All the Right Notes

For many, the festive season is a time for good tidings, holiday cheer, and embracing the Christmas spirit. However, just because it’s Christmas, that doesn’t mean horror enthusiasts have to set aside their love of ghouls and scares. So, how can fans of the macabre celebrate the most wonderful time of the year while indulging their darker tastes? Enter the 2017 film Anna and the Apocalypse—a one-of-a-kind, gnarly, and delightfully twisted zombie Christmas musical that reimagines the coming-of-ag...

Review: One Branch at a Time

Mental health is never an easy topic to discuss, and with children, it can feel even more daunting, with parents often feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. That’s where books like ‘One Branch at a Time’ by Eliza Allen come in, serving as a gentle bridge to help children understand and process their emotions. Through an enchanting narrative and engaging characters, Allen delivers an accessible and compassionate approach to mental health, fostering meaningful conversations about emoti...

All Is Revealed in ‘Agatha All Along’ Episodes 8 & 9 – What Lies At The End Of The Witches' Road?

The finale of Agatha All Along has finally arrived, concluding the coven’s harrowing journey down The Witches’ Road. Along the way, they’ve confronted dark mystical forces, fractured dynamics, and sinister twists in pursuing their deepest desires. But can the double-bill finale tie every thread to deliver the perfect ending to this eerie tale?
“Follow Me, My Friend / To Glory at the End” opens with Alice’s haunting acceptance of her own death as she gazes upon her corpse, awaiting Rio/Death to c...

Facing The Unknown in ‘Agatha All Along’ Episode 7 – Can The Coven Overcome Their Greatest Trial?

With only a few days left until Agatha All Along‘s thrilling double-bill finale, the latest spellbinding episode dives deeper into the series’ web of mysteries. Through a twisted trial of divination, hidden secrets are unearthed, alliances are tested, and long-speculated fan theories are finally confirmed.
“Death’s Hand in Mine” unfolds out of sequence, mirroring Lillia’s fragmented perspective. This episode delves into the unpredictable nature of her powers, revealing the chaotic flashes she ha...

Familiar Faces Return in ‘Agatha All Along’ Episode 6 – Who Really Is Teen?

In the last episode of Agatha All Along, the long-speculated reveal of Teen as Billy Maximoff was finally confirmed. Yet, as one question is answered, even more arise around this mysterious character—could there be more to Teen than viewers initially anticipated?
“Familiar by Thy Side” opens three years prior to the events of Agatha All Along, with Teen, then known as William Kaplan, at his Bar Mitzvah. Despite the celebrations, the event is abruptly cut short due to an emergency warning regardi...

Things Are Shaking Up in 'Agatha All Along' – What Does the Mid-Season Trailer Reveal?

With only four episodes left of Agatha All Along, Marvel has released a mid-season trailer packed with hidden details, intriguing flashbacks, and hints at surprising twists. Just when viewers thought they had the story figured out, the new trailer raises fresh questions and teases high-stakes revelations. So, what could this mean for the rest of the series?
While fans have long speculated on the origins of the coven’s members, the trailer hints at potential backstories for three specific charact...

Secrets Unearthed in 'Agatha All Along' Episode 5 – It Was Who All Along?

What a cliffhanger! In the latest instalment of Agatha All Along, secret identities were revealed, betrayal ran rampant, and the coven’s darkest qualities were exposed. But only being halfway through the series, what more is to be expected?
“Darkest Hour / Wake Thy Power” opens with the Salem Seven emerging from the earth, hell-bent on exacting revenge not just on Agatha but on the entire coven. Thanks to a timely warning from Lillia, Agatha’s coven is alerted and makes a quick escape. Surrounde...

Parenting in the Digital Age

In today’s digital landscape, technology plays a vital role in our children’s lives. From social media to educational resources, it provides countless opportunities for growth and connection. However, navigating its challenges can almost feel daunting for many parents. So, how can they embrace technology’s benefits while also safeguarding their children from its potential risks?
While parenting has never been easy, the rise of new technological developments introduces unique challenges that ofte...

Things Begin To Heat Up in ‘Agatha All Along’ Episode 4 – How The Coven Overcome Their Next Trial?

Another week has passed, and a new trial begins. But how will the coven fare as cursed flames engulf them and a familiar face stirs guilt and betrayal within their ranks?
“If I Can’t Reach You / Let My Song Teach You,” opens with the coven reeling from Sharon’s death, creating tension among the witches. Jen, who crafted Sharon’s antidote, and Alice, the coven’s protection witch, feel the loss most deeply. However, they must persist, but they’re in need of a green witch. In desperation, they perf...

Local Children's Author Announces Mental Health Book

Local children’s author Eliza Allen, who comes from Kent, has announced the release of her upcoming mental health book, One Branch at a Time.


Inspired by personal experiences, One Branch at a Time aims to “sensitively explore mental health in a way that is easily understandable” while “encouraging children to offer support to those in need.”


Beginning as a passion project through her ten years of experience working with children, Ms Allen recognised the “transformative power of stories,” w...

The Coven Faces Their First Trial in ‘Agatha All Along’ Episode 3 – How Will They Fare?

Agatha’s journey along The Witches’ Road has finally begun. While the initial episodes may have felt lighter than expected for a show steeped in witchcraft, Agatha All Along has now fully embraced its darker side. The latest instalment cranks up the horror as Agatha and her coven face their first sinister trial, setting the stage for the challenges yet to come.
“Through Many Miles / Of Tricks and Trials” begins where the previous episode left off, with the coven narrowly escaping the clutches of...

You Won’t Believe What Happens in ‘Agatha All Along’ Episodes 1 & 2 – Is Agatha the MCU’s New Big Bad?

After her spellbinding debut in Wandavision, Agatha Harkness, portrayed by Kathryn Hahn, returns to the MCU in the highly anticipated series Agatha All Along. WandaVision is considered one of Marvel’s most remarkable projects, telling a story of love and grief through the unique lens of sitcom television. Naturally, this latest instalment has a lot to live up to. Yet, being dubbed one of the ‘most anticipated series of the year’, it’s clear fans can’t get enough of Agatha and are eager to see wh...

Cora Rebel - 'Late Night Phone Call'

‘Late Night Phone Call’, the latest single from London-based musician Cora Rebel, 26, shares a gripping tale of guilt, betrayal and unresolved feelings, perfectly crafted into an immersive storytelling experience.Released on Friday, September 6th, ‘Late Night Phone Call’ unfolds a chilling narrative of an unsolved mystery, as the protagonist is lured into the night, never to be seen again.In the first verse, Cora creates a false sense of security with idyllic imagery such as ‘garden parties’ and...
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