Times of Tunbridge Wells 11th August 2021

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

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House prices will rocket with rises of £1,000 every month By Richard Williams

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THE price of an average home in Tunbridge Wells could increase by 20 per cent over the next five years, according to a leading estate agent. That’s equivalent to more than £1,000 a month. Property group Savills has upgraded its 2021 UK house price forecasts to reflect the extended stamp duty holiday and the impact of repeated lockdowns on what home buyers want from their homes. Its analysis forecasts that house prices in Tunbridge Wells are set to increase by 19.10 per cent, with values increasing by £64,500, although the rise could be much higher. Savills says the average value of homes in the South East in December 2020 was £336,984 and this value is predicted to

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rise to £401,348 by the end of 2025. However, properties in Tunbridge Wells often go for much more than the median price in the rest the region. The average price of a three-bedroom house in the town centre tipped over the

‘First-time buyers are reliant on the bank of mum and dad’ £500,000 mark earlier this year, according to online vendors Zoopla and Rightmove. Detached four-bedroom homes often go for more than £1million. If Savills predictions come true, price rises in the town centre and surrounding areas could see a three bedroom house

increase by more than £100,000 in the next five years, while owners of large detached homes could see an extra £200,000 added to their value. Savills says it expects average UK house price growth of 9.0 per cent by the end of this year alone. It also forecasts further growth of 3.5 per cent in 2022. In the period 2022 to 2025 the estate agent predicts prices will rise between 11 and 12 per cent, taking total growth across the UK to the end of 2025 to 21.5 per cent – more than a fifth. “Some of the growth generated by the extraordinary market conditions of 2020 and 2021 could unwind at times during 2022, but we see nothing on the horizon

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

this week… Schools see record results following

teacher graded A-level assessments By Robert Forrester

FESTIVAL FEVER ON THE PANTILES Following the recent Pantiles Gin Festival, The Pantiles Food Festival is set to bring yet more cheer this coming weekend p.4 WILL GOES BACK TO SCHOOL Paralympian Will Bayley returned to Beacon Academy just before heading off to compete in Tokyo p.14

THE SCANDALS HAUNTING HEVER Hever and Penshurst star in this week’s classy new BBC docu-drama series on The Boleyns: A Scandalous Family p.28

MORE than two in five A-level students across the country received an A grade or higher yesterday [Tuesday] following the cancellation of exams for the second year in a row due to Covid-19. Students have been given grades determined by teachers this year, rather than exams, with pupils only assessed on what they have been taught during the pandemic. In total, 44.8 per cent of UK entries were awarded an A or A* grade this summer – up by 6.3 per cent on last year when 38.5 per cent achieved the top grades. Across the South East of England, schools did even better with 47.1 per cent achieving top marks. In Kent and East Sussex, headteachers were congratulating pupils following ‘a very difficult two years’. At Benenden School in Cranbrook, 83 per cent of pupils achieved A* or A – higher than last year’s 74 per cent. An impressive 50 per cent of all grades were at the top A* grade and 64 per cent of the year group achieved nothing less than an A. Headmistress Samantha Price said: “The students have thoroughly deserved these excellent grades. We always knew this was a strong year group who were likely to perform very well and pupils achieved the grades we would have expected.”

Assessment The system of awarding grades has been criticised for leading to higher grades across the country, but Mrs Price said that at Benenden, the

JUBILANT: [Above] girls from Benenden yesterday and [below] pupils at the Beacon Academy process had been ‘extremely robust’. She added: “Our pupils went through a rigorous internal assessment process, which included judging each pupil on a selection of their coursework, class assessments and previous test performances in addition to sitting formal assessments in the Spring and Summer to gauge the level students were currently performing at. At Claremont Senior School in Robertsbridge, students were celebrating the most successful A Level & BTEC results in the school’s history. Ed Dickie, Headmaster, said: “Some cynics might point to national grade inflation and the impact of teacher assessed grades on results but our Year 13 students have far exceeded expectations across the board. “We have a very diverse student body at

STEAKING OUT OUR FAVOURITE MEAT Lily Spencer from Chapel Place’s STEAK restaurant serves a slice of history on the meat, including one American doctor who recommended three portions a day! p.30 CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard.moore@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richard.williams@onemediauk.co.uk |01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lee.smith@onemediauk.co.uk ADVERTISING 01892 779580 advertising@onemediauk.co.uk FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews www.timeslocalnews.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

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PASSING OUT: Straight A pupils celebrate their results at Beechwood School in Tunbridge Wells

Claremont yet success has come in all areas of the curriculum, from the Sciences and Humanities to creative subjects such as Photography and Drama. Claremont’s core aim is to ensure that our young people achieve and exceed their potential, regardless of academic ability, and these results have certainly delivered on that promise across a very wide range of subjects.” A number of school, however, did not publically publish their A-Level results this year, but heads have said the results were similar to previous years. At Kent College Pembury, Headmistress, Ms Julie Lodrick said: “Despite the immense pressure and extraordinary circumstances facing our Sixth Form students this year, we are very proud of their hard work and determination to perform at their very best. “It is testament to the professionalism of our teaching staff that the grades awarded at Kent College were a true reflection of the ability and potential of our Sixth Form students, which have enabled them to secure their chosen university place.” Cara Hoper at Beacon Academy in Crowborough, added: “Our Year 13 cohort have been rewarded with a particularly strong set of grades, which will enable them to progress onto

Key factors pushing up property prices… Continued from front page that would trigger a major house price correction,” said Robert Jacobs, head of residential sales at Savills in Tunbridge Wells. “New buyer demand continues to outweigh supply despite the potential stamp duty saving falling from £15,000 at June 30 to just £2,500 until the end of September, and this against low levels of supply. “This imbalance looks set to continue, underpinning further price growth over the near term, particularly as people look to lock into current low interest rates. “But such strong growth in 2021 will leave less capacity for growth over the next few years, particularly as interest rates are expected to rise a little earlier than leading commenta-

tors had previously projected. “The rate at which interest rates rise will also shape price growth. A steeper than anticipated jump in rates would restrict growth, although it would have to be severe to lead to actual falls in values – an outside risk in our view.” Interest rate rises are critical to the forecasts, Savills says. The predictions assume a Bank of England base rate no higher than 0.5 per cent by the end of 2025. A number of other key factors point to what Robert Jacobs describes as a ‘soft landing’ for the market, rather than any dramatic correction in values. Since the market reopened last year, price growth has been driven in large part by more affluent buyers, less reliant on mortgage debt and able to lock into low fixed interest rates. More generally, the pace of economic recov-

ery has helped reduce unemployment levels, stress testing of lending is now embedded in the system, while interest rate rises are still expected to be slow and modest by the end of 2025, meaning a gradual squeeze on affordability.

Transactions These factors underpin Savills’ five year forecasts, but they also indicate limited capacity for further price growth at the end of this period, without substantially affecting who is able to buy and the number of potential transactions. First-time buyers are likely to be increasingly reliant on government schemes and, where available, on the generosity of the bank of mum and dad.

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

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John Lewis burglar jailed for two years A BURGLAR who stole around £50,000 worth of goods from John Lewis in Tunbridge Wells has been jailed. Ionel Stoian took items worth about £75,000 in total from two heists at both the Kingstanding Way store, which has now closed, and the department store chain’s Ashford branch. Stoian, from Hampshire, pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary and was last week sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court to two years and three months’ imprisonment.

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Wagamama chases growth with plans for an extension By Lottie Bulmer

A POPULAR town centre noodle bar is about to get much bigger following an application to extend its current site. Wagamama on Mount Pleasant Road is currently closed as the Japanese-inspired chain is proposing to knock through its current restaurant into the unoccupied unit next door. The vacant shop was home to women’s clothing retailer Jacques Vert, which closed more than a year ago. Now Wagamama plans to take it over and extend its restaurant.

Heart waiting list THE number of people waiting for life saving diagnosis and treatment is set to increase by nearly 50 per cent, according to new forecast by the British Heart Foundation (BHF). Around 5,885 people were waiting to see a heart specialist in the Kent and Medway CCG area, which covers Tunbridge Wells, but this is expected to rise to 8,445 people by March next year. Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation, said: “Even before the pandemic began, waiting lists for vital heart care were far too long.”

Struggling

Gervais ticket profiteers TICKETS for the sold out Ricky Gervais show at the Assembly Hall in Tunbirdge Wells last week, were changing hands for up to eight times their face value. The £40 tickets to see the Office star were sold out within minutes when they went on sale, but some were resold on websites like ebay where they were going for between £250 and £300 in the run to the two shows in Tunbridge Wells this week.

POPULAR The Mount Pleasant restaurant wants to expand

Sport centres put in jeopardy as row erupts over a £2million deal By Richard Williams

ON TRACK The Council wants to extend the contract to run its leisure centres

LEISURE centres in Tunbridge Wells may have to close next year as a political row has broken out over a deal to secure the running of facilities for the next five years, the Times has learned. A proposed £2million contract with Fusion Leisure had been agreed to operate the three venues owned by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC). The confidential deal was arranged behind closed doors due to the commercial sensitivity of the talks and would see Fusion retain the management of the sites.

The chain, which is owned by The Restaurant Group [TRG], has applied for an extension of its drinks license to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] to cover not just its current address of 54-60 Mount Pleasant Road but also the former clothing shop. TRG has been struggling in recent years and was placed into administration during the pandemic, but the company sold off its poorer performing Chiquito restaurants and some Frankie and Benny outlets to secure its future. Its Wagamama brand is among its best performing chains, which also include Joe’s Kitchen and Garfunkel’s. The restaurant on Mount Pleasant Road, which serves a range of Asian inspired dishes such as ramen and teppanyaki is a popular dining location in the town, often booked up most weekends. Wagamama have been approached for comment but did not respond. meaning it is to be challenged before the authority’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee next month. No single party now has overall control of the council. The political row could see the Cabinet forced to reject the leisure provider’s offer, which could see leisure services in the area put on hold until the authority finds another provider – or is able to run the sports centres itself. The deal was ‘called in’ by Cllr David Hayward from the Alliance, who declined to comment on his objections to the new contract. His appeal has been backed by both Labour and the Lib Dems. Cllr Hugo Pound, who leads the Labour Group on TWBC called the decision to hand Fusion back the contract ‘lazy and thoughtless’.

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Fee The registered charity has been running Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre in St John’s Road, the Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre in Paddock Wood, and the Weald Leisure Centre in Cranbrook since 2006. In August last year, following the closure of all of leisure centres across the UK following the pandemic, TWBC had to handover £670,000 of taxpayers’ money to Fusion in order for it to be able to reopen the centres after the provider ran out of cash. TWBC waived the annual £249,634 management fee the company normally pays to operate the centres, but also handed over £420,000 from Council funds to pay for the re-openings. Fusion came under criticism from a number of local clubs, including by the 100-year old Monson Swimming Club, after the leisure

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provider raised fees. The contract to provide leisure services in the Borough was due to expire in March next year, but the Council has been told there is no alternative but to accept a new deal with Fusion. Cllr Jane March, who heads Culture and Leisure on the Conservative-run Cabinet, has been told that extending the contract is the ‘only viable option’ and that five years would offer the maximum ‘capital investment’ by Fusion.

The deal, the Times has learned, would see the leisure provider repay the £670,000 it borrowed from TWBC last year and continue to pay the existing £250,000 annual management fee for the next five years, along with any debts accrued along the way. Fusion has also made a pledge to invest money to upgrade the facilities, but no details have been made available. However, opposition councillors at TWBC are unhappy with Fusion following the bail out last year, and have now ‘called in’ the deal,

He told the Times: “The proposed extension of the Fusion contract does not meet residents’ needs. Why do we have to put up with broken fitness machines, filthy public areas, limited opening hours, a lousy booking system? “ He added: “Cabinet considered no evidence of the possible cost of bringing the service in-house, of approaching other suppliers, of asking smaller, local companies to take on parts of the contract. It has hardly spoken to local community groups who use the facilities daily. It is a lazy, thoughtless decision which we hope will be [eventually] overturned by Full Council” Lib Dem Leader Ben Chapelard, added: “We do not support the Conservatives’ plan to extend Fusion’s contract for five years. Their management of the Council’s leisure centres has been poor. “Too many residents and sports clubs feel let down by Fusion.” The future of leisure centre provision and the deal with Fusion is set to be discussed at a Special Overview and Scrutiny hearing tomorrow [August 12].

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Summer fun with family-friendly food festival that hits right notes

TAKING THE MIKE Organiser Julian Leefe-Griffiths hosted the Gin and Jazz event ANOTHER step back to normality happens this weekend with The Pantiles Food Festival making its comeback. Just like The Pantiles Gin Festival a couple of weeks ago, it runs from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday (August 14 and 15) and will feature a host of local producers, specialist foods and lashings of fun demos from some of our favourite chefs in town.

Incredible The gin festival (see pictures on this page) saw big crowds descend on the iconic promenade to celebrate the popular spirit in style. And the food festival is expected to draw in even larger numbers. “The festival is a real testament to the incredible quality and the wide variety of food offered across the town,” explains Julian Leefe-Griffiths, organiser of The Pantiles social events and owner of the Tunbridge Wells Hotel. “It’s so good to get the show back on the road running these festivals again. Last week we put on our first proper festival of the year with Gin and

Jazz and the turnout was incredible.” The Food Festival has been running for almost a decade, and this year will be sponsored by Sankey’s. It will also be supported by Fuller’s the butchers as well as The Tunbridge Wells Hotel. The festival is free to enter and the two-day event will not just be about food. There will be plenty of fun, family-friendly events going on and live music playing on the Saturday and Sunday. There will be 30 stalls, two bands, eight kitchen demos and lots for all the family. “The Dandara 1887 building at the end of The Pantiles is now all but complete and the whole area is looking fantastic,” said Julian. The festival will be opened by sponsor Matt Sankey on Saturday, who’ll be cooking paella and Po’Boys. On Sunday, Julian and his team are hoping to have a very special celebrity guest star appearing on the bandstand. For more details, visit thepantiles.co.uk

“There will be 30 stalls, two bands, eight kitchen demos and lots for all the family”

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Another inquiry into violence against women is launched following a rise in cases By Robert Forrester THE Police and Crime Commissioner [PCC] for the Kent has launched an inquiry into the number of cases of violence against women and girls. Matthew Scott says he wants to know what types of crime they’re experiencing and what levels of support they’re being given following a rise in domestic abuse cases during the pandemic. His inquiry comes after Chief Constable Alan Pughsley launched a review of incidents involving ‘women who are victims of any crime’ last month following a jump in the number of cases being reported. In Kent there was a 9.3 per cent increase last year, or 3,233 more incidents reported to the police.

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However, Mr. Scott says many cases of violence, sexual offences, stalking and harassment are never reported and he has launched a Call for Evidence to try to understand the true figures, as well as gauging the strength of feeling on safety in people’s lives. He also wants to know whether victims access support services and whether they’re happy with the levels of care they received. He said over the next three months, he will meet with victims, representatives from Kent Police, local authorities, charities and support groups, MPs and government representatives to try to understand the experiences of those who’ve suffered, in order to improve provision locally in Kent. He is also launching a survey which residents of Kent will be invited to fill in, documenting their experiences and a report with recommendations is due to be published in the new year.

Launching the first Steering Group today, the Commissioner said, “Violence against women and girls remains one of the challenges of our time. As a society we have to come together to address it. “There have been powerful and tragic examples recently, both locally and nationally, and the need for action on this is crucial. I want to see how we can improve the journey for victims and survivors in this county. “In Kent we already have a lot of good work going on, from police work to that provided by our partners and commissioned charitable services, so let’s pull together and find out if we can make things better. “I’ll be launching a survey and hosting a series of workshops with victims and survivors as well as numerous roundtable discussions with service providers, the police and local authorities and healthcare representatives. “I want to publish a meaningful report with tangible recommendations which will help us address this serious issue.”

MATTHEW SCOTT

Police officers really do look younger these days POLICE Cadets were out in Tunbridge Wells assisting with efforts to tackle speeding motorists last week. The volunteers at Kent Police, aged between 13-17, attended a number of locations highlighted as areas of concern, to carry out checks in conjunction with local Speedwatch groups last Wednesday [August 4]. They then visited reported hot spots in Major York’s Road near the town centre, as well as in Pembury High Street and Coach Road, Rusthall.

Enthusiasm

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CSU Inspector Ian Jones said: “These young cadets have all worked very hard and for some it will be the first time they have had hands on experience in interacting with members of the public and police officers. “They each took turns in operating the speed gun and recording registration numbers of vehicles travelling too fast. This information will be passed to the local Speedwatch teams who I know also greatly appreciated their efforts and enthusiasm.”

YOUNG GUNS: The cadets using speed guns in Tunbridge Wells

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Council converts derelict houses so the homeless don’t return to streets By Richard Williams THREE houses left in disrepair have been renovated and turned into accommodation for rough sleepers so they don’t have to return to the streets following the pandemic. The Council-owned properties in Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, were empty and ‘near derelict’ until a government grant and money from a developer provided the funding to convert them into three houses with six one-bedroom self-contained flats for homeless people. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] received a grant of £205,000 from the government's Next Steps Accommodation Programme aimed at ensuring people sleeping rough CONVERSION The rundown properties can now accommodate six people each

and taken off the streets during the Covid crisis have somewhere to go now that restrictions have lifted. TWBC also used £310,000 given to them as part of an agreement with a developer that is converting the nearby former Homeopathic Hospital site in Church Road.

Charities Rough sleepers in the town had been housed by the Council at the Russell Hotel during the various government lockdowns, and it was feared many would return to the streets once restrictions were lifted and funding for temporary accommodation stopped. The former rough sleepers will now

be offered a flat in one of the converted houses for up to two years, as well as help and support. Two local charities, the Tunbridge Wells Soroptimists and Tunbridge Wells Churches Streets Teams, made donations towards the cost of furnishing the flats, while Nourish Community Food Bank has supplied welcome packs for new tenants. Cllr Andy Fairweather, the Cabinet member in charge of Communities and Wellbeing, said: "I'm proud that

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the Council has been able to deliver these fantastic units to help former rough sleepers. “Government funding only became available towards the end of last year, so it is a remarkable achievement that the properties have been designed and renovated so quickly and are now ready to be occupied. "I would like to thank the local charities who have helped to furnish these properties. This has been a great example of the community

coming together." Cllr Matt Bailey, the Council’s head of Sustainability added that the accommodation was also as environmentally friendly as part of the Council's commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030. He said: "They've been thoroughly insulated and are all heated using air-source heat pumps. Going forward we hope to power the flats using electricity generated entirely from renewable sources."

KEEPING YOU SAFE ONBOARD

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Summer heatwave sees Kent cherries flood UK’s supermarket shelves…. CHERRY PICKER Havesting locally grown cherries

By Richard Williams AN ABUNDANCE of local cherries is expected to flood supermarkets across the UK as growers in Kent praise the summer heatwave that has created a glut of the fruit. Local growers are hailing a massive yield in the sweet stone fruit after unseasonal cold and rain during a bleak spring threatened to hamper this year’s output.

Unseasonal Kent is traditionally the UK’s main cherry-growing area, and people selling the summer fruit are a common sight along the roads around Tunbridge Wells and elsewhere in the county. Due to an abundance this summer, supermarket chain Tesco has taken on an extra 115 tonnes to avoid them going to waste. Lee Turner of Kent-based FGA Farming, the largest cherry grower in the county, said: “The recent hot weather has really helped the cherry trees develop and produce super sweet fruit. “For the next two to three

weeks the UK will be getting an abundance of super sweet, classic British cherries. “It’s a total contrast to what we were experiencing back in April and May which, because of the unseasonal weather, resulted in a far colder start to the cherry growing season than usual. “This meant that the cherry

‘The great news for cherry lovers is that the fruit will be very sweet as a result of remaining dormant for longer’

shows just how far the revival has come in such a short space of time. Britain’s cherry industry is finally getting back on track after nearly collapsing 20 years ago, it is thought. High production costs at the turn of the century and the increasing availability of cheaper imports hit the livelihoods of many UK cherry growers. Tesco stone fruit buyer Callum Baker said: “The great news for cherry lovers is that the fruit will be plump and very sweet as a result of remaining dormant for longer and building energy during the colder spring.

trees were dormant for longer and pushed the start of the season back by up to three weeks but helped the trees build energy and potential resulting in the high-quality fruit coming through now.” This year British growers are set to produce slightly more than 6,000 tonnes of cherries – nearly double to the UK’s total cherry harvest in 2018. And compared to the relatively small 559 tonnes that were picked in the year 2005, it

“We’d rather see an even production across the UK than to have a massive crop flush like this but when it happens we are able to step in, use our scale for good and help growers, with customers being the ultimate winners.” Cherry production in the UK is so strong that Tesco no longer needs to import them from abroad during the British season.

Ultimate

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South East Water’s routemap to net zero

… and the future looks bright for local apple growers too By Robert Forrester KENT’S largest apple grower has been bought in a £15.7million deal that has secured the future of the business and its 550 employees. Bardsley England produces nearly 18,000 tonnes of the fruit a year from its farms in Kent, which covers 850 hectares (2,100 acres) and includes 27 orchards.

The grower’s customers include major UK supermarkets.

Bearer The deal with new owners Camellia, based at Linton, near Maidstone, will see a £9.3million investment being ploughed into the company on top of the £15.7million sale price. Camellia is a global agricultural group specialising

in bearer plants. Its CEO, Tom Franks, said: “We have been looking for some time to increase our focus on agriculture where we have deep skills, and to increase our operations in the UK. “Bardsley helps with both. It is located close to our HQ in Kent, which is the premier region for apple growing in the country. We look forward to partnering with the Bardsley family in the future.”

UTLITIES company for Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area, South East Water, has pledged to reduce its carbon emissions to ‘net zero’ by 2030. The water provider says it has already reduced its carbon emissions by 38 per cent but wants to reduce this to zero in the next nine years. The company, which supplies drinking water to 2.2 million customers across parts of Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire, has published its routemap detailing how it is will make shifts in its operations to meet its net zero target. To achieve its goal, South East Water say they will be increasing energy efficiency, working with customers to help them use water wisely, investing in nature-based solutions, using renewable sources, and avoiding direct emissions. David Hinton, South East Water Chief Executive Officer, said: “Climate change is one of society’s greatest challenges and it’s something that we’re

acutely aware of. Protecting the environment that we work in and abstract water from is a value that is embedded into the heart of our day-to-day operations.

Committed “Maintaining the status-quo will only make the future challenges greater for the environment and for our customers. We are committed to reducing our operational carbon emissions, but we know that this cannot be achieved overnight or alone. “We’re proud to be sharing our plans today and hope this routemap, together with the development of our 25 year environment plan, encourages ongoing dialogue with our community so we can work together to achieve the ambition of a flourishing environment for the future.” CLEAN WATER South East plans to go net zero by 2030

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Cancer charity overwhelmed by ‘warmth and generosity’ after festival fundraiser By Daisy Rich-Overall A COMMUNITY festival has raised an incredible £8,000 for a local cancer support group. On July 24-25, Denny’s Fest raised the funds for Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, which provides emotional and mental support for cancer patients and their family and friends.

Charity co-founder Polly Taylor said she was ‘overwhelmed by the warmth and generosity of the young people’ who came together to raise money. The event was hosted by two Tunbridge Wells businesses – barber’s Denny’s Place and tattoo shop 14 Arrows – in order to raise money for local charities.

DONATION: Polly Taylor from Pickering receiving the cash made during Denny’s Fest last month

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CONFERENCE AND EVENTS VENUE

The festival has been running from the small courtyard joining Denny’s Place and 14 Arrows, for the last 5 years and was started in memory of the barber’s founder Denny Rowe – who sadly passed away due to lung cancer – to raise support for cancer awareness.

Tattoos Presenting the money raised to Polly at Pickering last week [August 03] Denny’s daughter and festival runner, Storm Walker, said: “Denny always said that Tunbridge Wells took him in, and he wanted to give something back.” She added that Pickering will be the charity of choice from now on and is ‘humbled and honoured to be a part of the Pickering family.’ Both Polly and Storm said they were ‘bonded by tattoos’ now as the pair both had two rainbow hearts tatooed on them during the event. The festival consisted of hairdressing, sponsored tattoos and live music, which Storm said ‘just work together in a way they would never do on their own’. Volunteers from the charity were sponsored for their heart tattoos, with 14 Arrows owner Aron Heartfield (Az) spending 8 hours tattooing to raise money for the charity. Polly added that she hopes to be sponsored next year to get the charity logo tattooed on her arm. The festival showcased the best of local talent through live music, an outdoor bar and a barbecue. The partnered businesses offered discounted

haircuts and tattoos to add to the proceeds. DJ Stephen Wright heavily contributed to the lively atmosphere of the festival, having gone from two decks in the barbershop to building his own stage.

Shocked Polly said that the ‘atmosphere was electric’ thanks to Stephen, who also organised the setlist of DJs and the signage. Expecting the evening to only last until 8pm, Storm said she was shocked that people were dancing all the way through to 11:30pm. Volunteering bands included ‘A Year in Provence’ and ‘Air Streams’, with Ryan Weaks as the brilliant sound engineer.

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Businesswoman overcomes health issues for charity run By Robert Forrester

Southeastern panel aims to make train journeys accessible THE train operator which runs the lines through Tunbridge Wells station has launched a new panel chaired by a Paralympian to make train journeys more accessible. The new Accessible Travel Advisory Panel (ATP) aims to improve the accessibility of railway journeys for those travelling on the Southeastern network. It will be made up of 15 people with lived experience of accessibility issues and will be chaired by Paralympicwheelchair rugby player, Andy Barrow. The panel has been set up in response to the recent government announcement to boost accessibility, remove barriers and improve the confidence of disabled

travellers on UK railways. ATAP hopes to represent the needs of passengers with visual and hearing impairments, young children, older people requiring assistance, people with non-visible impairments, and people with physical impairments.

Discussions Following the government announcement, Mr Barrow said: “Disabled passengers should be empowered to use all forms of transport with the same confidence as everyone else.” Mr Barrow travelled on a Southeastern train with the Rail Minister, Chris HeatonHarris, and David Wornham, for the panel meeting next to

London Bridge station. Mr Heaton-Harris’s remit includes the accessibility of the railway, and said he aims to continue having ‘these discussions as we make critical accessibility improvements across our transport network”’ As part of the first ATAP session, Andy and the Minister took part in a lively discussion on how best to boost access to the rail network for disabled passengers. Mr Barrow said: “I’ve been working closely with Southeastern to help their staff empathise with the day to day challenges that people can experience when travelling by train.” He added he was ‘delighted to attend the panel and hear from such a wide variety of people.

A DIRECTOR of a local PR agency has overcome her own health issues to run the London Half Marathon for a local hospice. Laura Gibson, who runs Tunbridge Wells-based brand and PR agency Calvermont with her fellow director, Olivia Thornhill Wells, took on the challenge of running the marathon for Hospice in the Weald despite having been diagnosed with the autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis.

people surrounded by loved ones – which has been nigh on impossible during the pandemic.’’ After the strain Covid put on hospitals, Hospice in the Weald made 14 private rooms available for patients dying of the virus at its in-patients’ ward in Pembury. Laura added: “I hope the hospice will continue to deliver free end of life care to people.” Hospice in the Weald allows

Runners

Conquered After battling with the prospect of never being able to exercise forcefully again, Laura trained hard to build up the strength to complete the run. But, on August 1 she conquered the 13.1 mile race, crossing the line in 2 hours and 13 minutes. Laura explained why she tackled the race: “Having recently become aware of the amazing work that Hospice in the Weald does, and has delivered, especially during the pandemic, I thought who better to run for to raise much-needed funds so that they can continue to deliver free end of life care to

people to spend their final days in quality accommodation with their loved ones without the expense. The marathon was the first organised by the City of London since the pandemic began. And Laura said the race was a big success with a wonderful atmosphere. “The support from the hospice and other charities made the streets come alive and pushed all the runners on.”

BEST FOOT FORWARD Laura Gibson during her run

She added: “I am proud all those that have supported me and helped raise over £3,000 for a very special local charity.” Several other local runners completed the marathon with a team of seven from Fuller’s Butcher’s, who ran together in under 3 hours. Tor Edwards, Communications Director at Hospice in the Weald, also completed the course in just 2 hours and 4 minutes. You can still donate to Laura’s fundraising efforts by going to justgiving.com/fundraising/ lauravgibson Or donate directly to the Hospice in the Weald at hospiceintheweald.org.uk/ donate

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National News

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Record number of students accepted on university courses amid pandemic A RECORD number of students have been accepted on to UK degree courses this year, Ucas figures show. A total of 435,430 people, from the UK and overseas, have had places confirmed, up 5% on the same point last year, according to data published by the university admissions service. Among UK applicants, 388,230 have been accepted – an 8% rise compared with results day last year. A record 395,770 students have also been accepted on to their first choice of full-time course in the UK, up 8% from 365,500 at the same point in 2020.

Progress The figures come on the day that students across England, Wales and Northern Ireland are receiving their A-level results, and students across Scotland are receiving their Highers results. The Ucas data shows that 245,330 18-year-olds from across the UK have been accepted onto degree courses, up 17% on the same point last year. More than a third (34.1%) of British 18-year-olds have taken up places, up from 30.2% in 2020. The data also shows a record 20.7% of all British 18-year-olds from the most disadvantaged backgrounds in the UK have an undergraduate place. However, as yet there has been no progress in closing the gap to students from the most advantaged areas, with 48.4% accepted, Ucas said. Ucas chief executive Clare Marchant said: “Universities have been flexible with their decisions to accommodate as many students as possible onto their first choice of course. “Over the following days and weeks, we’re

ready to help anyone without a place find the opportunity that’s right for them in clearing.” She added: “After around a decade of widening participation progress, albeit slow, it is disappointing to see it stall, though this should be seen in light of record numbers of students from disadvantaged backgrounds being accepted.” Overall, the total number of students accepted on to nursing courses has increased by 8% to 26,730. Meanwhile, the figures show that 8,560 students from England have been accepted onto medicine and dentistry courses, up 23% from 6,960 on results day 2020. Last week, the Medical Schools Council (MSC), which represents 44 heads of medical schools

across the UK, warned that some schools may still struggle to increase the number of students they admit despite the announcement that medicine and dentistry schools will receive funding to expand courses. Alistair Jarvis, chief executive of Universities UK (UUK), said: “We are delighted to see that record numbers of applicants have had their places at university confirmed today, after what has been an exceptionally challenging year. “For those who haven’t got the grades they hoped, admissions teams are ready to help everyone with the potential to succeed at university find a place, and will take this year’s circumstances into account when making decisions.”

Body of British hiker found in Pyrenees THE body of British hiker Esther Dingley, who went missing in the Pyrenees, has been found by her partner close to where a bone was discovered two weeks ago. Ms Dingley, 37, had been walking solo in the mountains near the Spanish and French border and was last seen on November 22. The LBT Global charity said her body and equipment were found together by Daniel Colegate on Monday afternoon. A statement said: “A team of forensic specialists along with mountain rescue personnel were dispatched to the site in order to catalogue the scene and recover Esther.

Bone “At this stage an accident is the most likely hypothesis, given the location and other early indications. A full investigation is under way to confirm the details surrounding this tragedy. “The family remain incredibly grateful for the efforts of the police units involved and their commitment to understanding the exact circumstances of Esther’s death. “LBT Global are supporting Daniel and Esther’s mother, Ria, as they come to terms with this news.” It comes after a single bone was found nearby last month, which DNA testing later confirmed was Ms Dingley’s. Mr Colegate and Ms Dingley met at Oxford University and lived in Durham before they set off travelling around Europe in a camper van six years ago. Mr Colegate, who was staying 100 miles away in a French farmhouse, raised the alarm several days later when she failed to report in at an agreed time.

DISAPPEARED Esther Dingley, who went missing in the Pyrenees

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National News

SCENE The crash at Victoria Station Tuesday

Woman dies in crash between two buses at Victoria station in London A PEDESTRIAN was killed and two other people were injured in a crash between two buses, police said. The Metropolitan Police were called to the incident at Victoria bus station, central London, at 8.25am on Tuesday. It appears that a single-decker bus on route 507 crashed into the rear of another. The rear bus has a smashed windscreen, while the one in front has a crumpled rear bumper. The victim was a woman believed to be in her 30s. Her next of kin have yet to be informed, police said. Two other people were treated for non-life threatening injuries. The crash involved three pedestrians. London Ambulance Service said it sent several crews to the scene and dispatched London’s Air Ambulance. A witness, who wanted to remain anonymous, was travelling on another bus when she “heard a bang” and saw a woman “underneath” a 507 bus. She told the PA news agency: “She had a dark floral skirt and blonde hair. Her hand was

outstretched. There were a lot of people around her, one lady was holding her hand and a guy was trying to help. “I honestly hoped she would be okay.” The witness said the bus she was travelling on left moments later. She added that she and her fellow passengers were left feeling in shock and “so helpless”.

Trapped Danielle Cain, a Big Issue seller, said she “heard a woman scream” and saw “a load of people gathered round”. She continued: “It was awful, I knew instantly something bad had happened. “I was told later a woman had got trapped under a bus.” Lee Kirby, operations manager for left luggage at nearby Victoria railway station, arrived at work shortly after the incident and said there was a police presence in the area for the rest of the morning. “When I got here this morning the fire brigade

were jacking up the bus, so someone may have gone under it,” he told PA. “That’s all we saw, because it’s all been cordoned off. “We’ve seen police taking statements from people.” Light blue screens and blue tarpaulins, erected by police, remain in place covering most of the scene. A private ambulance arrived just after 12.30pm and was seen reversing behind the screens. Andy Byford, Transport for London’s Commissioner, said: “We are extremely saddened that a woman has tragically died after a collision with a bus and our thoughts are with her family and friends. “We are thinking of everyone affected by this incident and will support everyone however we can. We are working urgently with the operator of the two buses – Go Ahead London – and the police to investigate what happened.” The bus station has been closed. It is located outside London Victoria, which is Britain’s second busiest railway station.

German cannibal faces court Alpaca owners demand talks after ‘eating’ Berlin mechanic as Geronimo’s fate undecided A GERMAN man suspected of killing another man for sexual gratification and eating pieces of the victim’s body has gone on trial in Berlin. The 41-year-old teacher is accused of meeting a 43-year-old mechanic on an online dating site a few hours before the killing, German news agency dpa reported. Neither of their names was released for privacy reasons. Prosecutors said there was no indication that the victim agreed to be killed. After the killing last September, the accused allegedly chopped up the man’s body in his apartment in the Berlin-Pankow neighbourhood and then spread parts of it around different areas of the city, dpa reported. Police were looking for the missing

man for weeks before bones were found in a forest in northern Berlin and the accused was tracked down with the help of sniffer dogs. The trial at a Berlin state court is expected to last until mid-October.

Suspect In 2006, a German court convicted Armin Meiwes of murder and disturbing the peace for killing and eating a man he had met online. Meiwes is serving a life sentence. In 2015, a German police officer was convicted of murder for killing a man he met in an internet chat forum devoted to cannibalism. Prosecutors said the victim had fantasised about being eaten, but there was no evidence the suspect did so.

ALPACA owners are calling for urgent talks with the Government as the life of Geronimo hangs in the balance. Geronimo has twice tested positive for bovine tuberculosis and the Department of Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra) has ordered he be euthanised. His owner, Helen Macdonald, who imported him from New Zealand, believes the tests are returning false positives but has been refused a third test. Last week, Ms Macdonald lost her final appeal to save her beloved pet at the High Court in London and now a warrant has been signed for his destruction. She has received an outpouring of support from the public, with more than 100,000 people signing a petition calling on Boris Johnson to

halt the killing. The British Alpaca Society said the current stand-off between Defra and Ms Macdonald has “considerably undermined confidence” in the voluntary bovine TB testing regime in the UK. In a statement, Duncan Pullar, chief executive of the society, said: “The unique circumstances that have developed relating to Geronimo clearly show the testing system is not working as well as it should, and it is a matter of concern that Defra do not appear to want to learn from what is going on. “Defra will not allow further testing on Geronimo. There is no science to explain the effects of multiple priming on the outcomes of the Enferplex test in alpacas and no research has been carried out.”

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Education News

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

EDUCATION Times Top marks awarded by local sporting hero for students Crowborough’s Beacon Academy pupils received the golden seal of approval from Paralympian Will Bayley, MBE TABLE TENNIS champion and former Beacon Academy student Will Bayley, who hails from Crowborough, took time out of his busy schedule preparing for his appearance at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics in order to make an appearance as guest of honour at Beacon Academy’s online Honours Evening. The secondary school’s trustees, staff, students and families all came together virtually to celebrate the achievements of pupils at the end of term.

Sporting Ambassador and Ability Advocate. The Crowborough born sports star was born with a rare congenital disorder that affected all four of his limbs, and spent his early years undergoing numerous operations at Great Ormond Street Hospital. At the age of seven, Will returned to Great Ormond Street for chemotherapy when he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, and it was while recovering from cancer that his grandmother bought him a table tennis table and his journey in the sport began. During his talk at the online honours awards event, Will said: “I had an amazing time at Beacon, it was a special time in my life… I think it changed my life. I was never treated any differently even though I had a disability. I was always pushed in PE and that meant a lot to me, I felt like there were no excuses.” He went on to talk about training for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics - which start on August 24 - saying: “I’m hungry to make you guys proud and bring back a gold medal to the school.”

“It is now more important than ever that we acknowledge and celebrate all that our students have achieved during this difficult time” Lorna Miller, Head of Personal Development at Beacon Academy, said, “Having had to cancel our annual Honours Evening last year, we were thrilled to be able to gather together in some capacity for Beacon Academy’s fifth ceremony to celebrate the many achievements of students in Years 7 to 10 across all subject areas.”

“Keep your head up, keep fighting and keep being positive and you’re going to be great”

Succeed

Will Bayley

She added: “It is now more important than ever that we acknowledge and celebrate all that our students have achieved during this time – both academically and also as they continue to develop as strong, socially responsible, kind, caring and compassionate members of society. “This year, we were delighted to welcome back school alumnus, Will Bayley MBE, as our guest speaker. Will is currently busy training in preparation for the Tokyo Paralympics this summer. As one of our Beacon Alumni, we are thrilled that he was able to send us a special

Will concluded with some words of motivation: “When your back is against the wall, that’s when you show what kind of character you are… Keep your head up, keep fighting and keep being positive and you’re going to be great.” The Beacon Academy Core Values Award was presented to students who had consistently demonstrated the school’s core values to “inspire, believe, achieve and succeed” and were handed out by the school’s Chair of Trustees, Ms Clare Collins, MBE.

MAKING A RACKET: Paralympian Will Bayley, who went to Beacon Academy in Crowborough message for everyone at Beacon Academy and we wish him the very best of luck at Tokyo 2020.” Will Bayley MBE is the Paralympic Class 7 Table Tennis Champion, Paralympic Athlete,

HONOURS: Beacon Academy students missed out on the honours event last year due to the virus The Make Your MARK Award was presented to students who had supported others through difficult times and made a difference to their life by Head of Personal Development Miss Lorna Miller. The Headteacher’s blog told students: “This academic year has been an extraordinary year once again, and I would like to congratulate all of you who have been nominated.” Headteacher Anna Robinson continued: “I think that says a huge amount about you as individuals and how you have faced this year despite all the challenges with such pragmatism, maturity and good humour.” The evening also featured a solo dance performance from Year 11 student, Izzy, music performed by Laura (Y9) and Lana (Y8) and a short performance of Oliver Twist performed by Year 7 students Laura-Louise, Jamie and Roma.

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Hugo Pound Labour Councillor for Sherwood

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Hugo Pound is a Labour Councillor for Sherwood Ward on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. He is a chartered psychologist specialising in corporate leadership and strategy. He has worked in the NHS, as a qualified social worker in a London borough, in industry, and latterly in consulting.

Current electoral system is good for local democracy BEFORE the Tunbridge Wells Borough election in 2018, the Conservatives held 43 Council seats and other parties only 5. Following a huge decline in their popularity over three years and their wildly unpopular Calverley Square project, the Conservatives majority has been reduced from 38 to zero. The Council is now considering whether to stick with the existing electoral system where a third of councillors are elected each year or whether to move to a new system, ‘all out’ elections, where all councillors get elected at the same time, once every four years. If we had had ‘all out’ elections a few years back in Tunbridge Wells, we would have been unable to stop a project which did not have public support. We would now be saddled with over £100m of debt! The Conservatives would still be sitting on a huge majority which no longer represents voters’ views. Indeed, in Royal Tunbridge Wells, the Conservatives are not the majority party at all – Tunbridge Wells is not a Conservative town! Labour is in favour of retaining the present system of elections in three years out of four. The Council points out that this costs more money than ‘all out’ elections once every four years. Supporters suggest that ‘all out’ elections give a winning administration four years to deliver on

its promises, that it provides stability and consistency. But the present system favours local democracy and gives residents a more regular say in who represents them. We know there are too many councillors. There are 48 currently; that could be reduced without any damage to local democracy. We want active and participatory councillors, younger people, more women, ethnic minorities and people with disabilities and those of working age with all sorts of experiences and ideas to represent the borough.

Democratic We want councillors connected to our local communities and speaking to and for our residents. Fewer councillors will mean more opportunities for men and women who really want to make a difference to step forward. Fewer councillors means more accountability to residents, too. We argue that the borough can both save money and become more democratic by retaining the current system and reducing the number of councillors. By reducing the number of councillors, we reduce spending on allowances. In doing so, the Local Government Boundary Commission would review our current wards with an aim to make them democratically

balanced in the number of electors per councillor So, deciding on how many councillors there are and how often we vote is a challenge for local democracy. If one party is truly in the majority, they can run the Council. But if, each year, the mix of councillors changes to reflect local views, we will all have to work harder together to take the Borough forward.

Collaboration, active listening, sharing, being accountable – everything that the Conservatives have failed on for the last 22 years! We say go for less councillors and vote in a third of them each year. Make sure you have your say at https:// tunbridgewells.gov.uk/council/have-your-say/ consultations/electoral-system-and-councillors . Submit your views by Sunday 5 September.

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And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or you can write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG

Cuts to councillors welcome

I read a letter in the Times of Tunbridge Wells [July 28], ‘Supermarket rebrand sees price hikes,’ which prompted me to write to Tesco as I also regularly use the store. Rather than explain I have copied to you the correspondence in the hope that your Dear Mrs Allatt Thank you for your email. I am sorry that you are concerned about the difference in prices in your local store recently. I can understand your concern particularly given the number of people struggling. The changes in the stores structures and pricing are based around our decision to change this store from a Metro to an Express branch. We looked really closely at how our customers were using these stores and shopping habits have definitely changed over the last couple of years. Our Metro stores were

newspaper will highlight in some way what is going on. I can only assume that the reply I received this morning at about 7.30am means ‘job done’ as far as Tesco is concerned. Yours sincerely, Mrs S.Allatt

originally designed for larger, weekly shops. The majority of customers however were using them as convenience stores and only buying food for that day, which was always what our Express stores were intended to be for. We work hard to ensure our customers get great value at Tesco, whether you shop with us online, in a large store, or in an Express store. There are some operational differences between an Express store and the old Metro model, and our Express stores are extremely competitive compared to many other convenience stores. In addition, we have

Tesco rebrand profiteering Tesco report ‘strong improvement in profitability expected’ in the next financial year. How? By rebranding stores like the Tunbridge Wells Metro to an Express store (as you reported). Checking price since the change show many product prices rises of between 5 per cent – 15 per cent. Countless low-income shoppers who have used and supported the store for years may have to turn to the local food bank. Still, the slogan ‘every little helps’ still applies - to hard-up shareholders. John Elliott Tunbridge Wells

In response to Mr Steerpike In response to Ralph Steerpikes accusation over me politicising discussions around the Urbassers waste collection contract, I feel it’s important to highlight that there are significant issues which are linked to the HGV driver shortages. In order to sort out the issue long term we can not apply sticking plasters, the reasons and solutions for this need to be confronted head on. It so happens I have written HGV driver training programs and have worked with Skills for Logistics, JAUPT and the DSA, therefore am

recently introduced Clubcard Prices across all of our 1800 Express stores, giving our Clubcard customers access to hundreds of extra savings. I hope that I have been able to explain this and I want to confirm and clarify that we are very concerned about those in need in the community which is why we work with foodbanks and the Fareshare organisation to try and do our bit to support our communities. I hope that I’ve been able to explain and if you need anything else please let me know. Kim Reid, Tesco

likely to know more than many about the issues facing logistics at the moment. We regards to recycling, this is something agreed by both locally and nationally cross party, however, are you suggesting that we just throw everything into landfill? If you would like to contact me though the council website, am happy to have a talk to you in more detail. Mark Ellis Lib Dem councillor, St John’s ward

Planners pleased with NHS decision Your front cover of June 30 depicted a magnificent picture of the 140+ flats to be built in the hospital grounds. On the Planning Committee it was debated for over an hour and the Planning members voted for it to be built.There were some issues about tree felling but the Planning Officers mitigated the problem by proposing more trees to replace those and the landscaping of the development will enhance the hospital. It will be of great benefit to the nurses that they will have less than a 10-minute walk to work. I have had cause to go to hospital a number of times this year and I spoke to many of the student nurses. They often have to drive home after a 10 hour

Turkeys don’t vote for Christmas, so I’m not surprised Southborough Town Councillor Alan Bullion is arguing that there should be no reduction in the size of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (Times of Tunbridge Wells, July 28). However, his arguments are unconvincing. He seems to think that there are currently strong links between local Borough councillors and the public, and that any change in the number of councillors or the frequency of elections will lead to the cabinet and council officers becoming overly powerful. Where has he been the last few years? Between 2017 and 2020, the Council ignored the views of the overwhelming majority of residents and pushed ahead with ifs ill-conceived and unwanted Calverley Square project, wasting £11million of taxpayers’ money in the process. It is currently doing so again by pursuing the sale of the Shooting Club. And let’s not forget about garden waste collections – a (non-)service for which we in Tunbridge Wells pay considerably more than our neighbours in (according to Councillor Bullion) under-represented Tonbridge and Malling District Council. Councillor Bullion is also wrong to claim the savings from reducing the number of councillors and the electoral cycle will be only £50,000 a year. The Council has stated that this is the money that will be saved as a result of moving to a four-year election cycle. It has declined to disclose the additional savings that will arise from reducing the number of Councillors. However, in neighbouring Tonbridge and Malling, the Council has not only

revealed that reducing the number of its Councillors by around a third would result in a further £100,000 a year of savings but is also responding to public opinion by actively pursuing this option. What Councillor Bullion fails to realise is that what matters is not the quantity of councillors, but the quality. For too long, this Borough has had too few councillors prepared to represent the views of local communities, to hold officials in the Town Hall to account and to ensure that the Council provides the services local residents want in an efficient and cost-effective manner. James Tansley Tunbridge wells

New councillor has plenty to do As reported in your newspaper, Conservative Councillor Victoria White wants to know what everyone in Tunbridge Wells cares about. With help from her Conservative friends in the KCC she can start with: Getting bicycles, skateboards and electric scooters off the pavements, stopping vehicles speeding in the town particularly in 20mph zones, stopping drivers talking on their mobile phones, stopping vehicles from being parked on the pavements in town, hiring a few more traffic wardens, actually fining a few people for littering – particularly cigarette ends, enforcing existing alcohol bans, repairing pot holes, ensuring home owners keep the pavements free from overhanging branches and encroaching shrubbery, fining people whose dogs foul the pavement, cleaning the storm drains so the roads do not become rivers whenever it rains, and ensuring bins outside and behind restaurants do not overflow and encourage vermin. Then she can get on with the distractions like the cinema site, pedestrianisation, one way systems and the like, which never get solved anyway. Robert Lindley Tunbridge Wells

PEPPY SAYS...

CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)

Tesco responds to price hikes

shift for up to an hour; as far as Hastings and Brighton. They will be spared the time and stress of these journeys. Moreover the provision of these flats enables Tunbridge Wells Hospital to be one of the forest teaching hospitals in the UK. Cllr Bob Backhouse, Dep chair of planning, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council

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Homes & Interiors

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Interiors Seeing red

Add a splash of colour to your kitchen Page 22

Quirky casserole Catch-up on a cast iron tomato!

Page 23

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live est b r u yo life range G y c n e at Reg

Also, we have 2 bedroom apartments & duplexes priced from £350,000

Featured Property

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Homes & Interiors

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Seven bed detached house, Bidborough Ridge, Bidborough, Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £1,750,000 Substantial 7-bedroom house with glorious gardens and spectacular views. This fantastic family home sits in its prized ridge position, with outstanding panoramic views across the Weald. Within walking distance of the village, its spacious accommodation delivers family living on a grand scale. 1920s detached house

with separate annex option (353m²/ 3,800ft) , 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast/family room, 4 bathrooms, south facing gardens stretching to approximately 0.5 acres, 7 bedrooms (6 doubles with 2 en-suite), conservatory, separate utility room, tandem garage, off-street parking for 6 vehicles and outstanding views.

138 5-Star REVIEWS

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Homes & Interiors

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

2 TABLE MANNERS The modern and rustic Habitat Zela Glass 4-Seater Dining Table

Style splash

11 cool kitchen updates to shop now Need an easy upgrade for the busiest room in the house? Sam Wylie-Harris rounds-up some stylish kitchen essentials

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

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W

HETHER it’s stealing space in the kitchen with clever storage solutions, making modest mealtimes that much more memorable, or splashing out on an A-list appliance, now’s the perfect time to tart up a tired looking kitchen. Not only will it brighten up breakfast and tea-time – after all, we’re talking about the most multifunctional room in the house – but it’s funny how friends choose to stop by when you’re in the throes of thinking about a mini makeover, rather than when you’ve bagged those stylish updates. Here’s what’s caught our eye for a fun summer kitchen fix, and items that marry flair with function…

1. Four Tile Print Placemats And Coasters Set – (other items from a selection), £14, Next With their azure floral print, these easy, wipe-clean placemats evoke thoughts of summer breakfasts, sea views and even a taste of Italy with co-ordinating stoneware for your favourite cappuccino.

2. Habitat Zela Glass 4-Seater Dining Table – Natural, £180; Elmley Shade, £60 each (other items from a selection), Habitat Safe to say the kitchen table has seen a lot of action over the past year or so, and there couldn’t be a

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better time to lighten up your dining area with natural woodgrain and glass. Modern rustic always feels fresh, especially when you mix and match with ceramics, rattan dining chairs, earthenware and striking bamboo ceiling shades.

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– Showvino by Umbra, currently £10 (was £20), A Place For Everything A wall of wine… we’ll drink to that! And you can always build on this mounted wine rack, especially while it’s on special offer. Think white, red, rosé and Sunday best Bordeaux.

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The supercar of juicers, with 90-95 rotations per minute and a capacity of 0.6L, your fresh orange juice or screwdriver is going to taste that much racier.

6. Elements Skandi Set of 3 Tea Towels – £6 (other items from a

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This exotic palm leaf print will turn the everyday into something special. Think avocado on toast, tropical mango salads and Sicilian style Pasta alla Norma. Complete with four 25cm dinner plates, four 20cm side plates and four 15.5cm bowls.

8. STAUB Tomato Cast Iron Casserole Dish 25cm –£249,

4. Bugatti Vita Metal and Glass Juicer 29cm – £175, Selfridges

For Everything If too much kitchen clutter is pushing you to breaking point, a free-standing storage rack will lighten the load. Ideal for storage jars and cool kitchen gadgets you want on view, but not blocking up space.

selection), Dunelm A fresh new tea towel with a cheerful print takes the chore out of drying up, plus these come with a hanging loop for easy storage or decorative display.

7. A 12-Piece Melamine Green Leaves Dinner Set – £27.99, Studio

3. Wall Mounted Wine Rack

5. Three-Tiered Storage Rack Tower by Yamazi – £154, A Place

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Selfridges Meanwhile, for heartier family sit-downs, imagine how much tastier your sausage and tomato pie will be when you carry this cute tomato-shaped cast iron casserole dish to the table.

9. Tala Stoneware Mixing Bowls –Yellow, Dusty Pink and Blue, £25 each, Tala Cooking With a little more time on your hands, summer fêtes, children’s parties and summer berry cake season to cater for, these stoneware mixing bowls in pretty pastels channel sweet temptation before you’ve even reached for the caster sugar.

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10. Spode Creatures or Curiosity Set of Two Glass Tumblers – £25, Freemans Whether it’s a lunchtime mocktail or sultry evening cocktail, somehow a decorative glass tumbler is an easy way to give your drinks list a lift. With its yellow moth motif, we’re thinking tequila based El Matador or Nectarine Sunshine Smoothie.

11. SMEG Mini Kettle – Red, £109.95, SMEG The new kettle on the block, and boasting most of the design features of its big brother (the KLF03), minor alterations in this Mini three-cup counterpart include a manual opening knob for the lid and 1400 watts power. Available in a range of colours, who wouldn’t love its retro styling?

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Recruitment

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Recruit

with the Times... Largest circulated newspaper in the area Out every Wednesday Total weekly reach 57,000+

Times of Tunbridge Wells 01892 779 580 or email advertising@onemediauk.co.uk

LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

Recruitment

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

WE’RE RECRUITING!

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Elite Leisure Collection, formally Markerstudy Leisure, is one of the region’s fastest growing group of companies consisting of five independently owned, award winning, ambitious brands employing over 80 staff. Due to continued growth and exciting new plans we are now recruiting for new superstars to join our teams based in Tunbridge Wells: RECEPTIONIST

Playing a vital role in the everyday operation of our Reception, you will be responsible for creating the first impression for all guests, by greeting them and making them feel welcome. This high profile role requires an excellent customer facing approach with exceptional levels of customer service.Your main focus will be to ensure customer satisfaction, directing guests to their conference or event, checking guests in and out of our accommodation and also managing a high level of email and telephone enquiries. Strong communication and organisation skills are essential.

PART-TIME SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT (20HRS PER WEEK)

As part of media sales team, this is a results driven and varied sales support role that incorporates sales support and development, relationship management and sales administration. Working in both B2B and B2C sectors, you will support our existing successful sales team to manage/monitor new enquiries, process new contracts, liaise with existing clients whilst providing administrative support to our small but ambitious sales team. To be successful in this role you will need good verbal and written communication, computer literacy with strong administration skills and great attention to detail

CHEF DE PARTIE

An opportunity has arisen for a full-time experienced Chef de Partie to assist in the day to day running of our busy kitchens. The main responsibilities are to manage a section within the kitchen whilst ensuring cleanliness, stock control, organisation and high standards of the section. You will ensure that all dishes are prepared and cooked according to the specific restaurant standards alongside keeping to the required cleaning schedule and that the cleaning tasks are delegated as appropriate. Previous experience of working in a similar venue/restaurant is required along with a creative passion for food and quality.

HOUSEKEEPER

Under the direction of the Housekeeping Manager and Supervisor, a Housekeeper aims to provide a high quality and efficient service in line with agreed standards of the venue operation, to be responsible for cleaning and tidying the bedrooms and public areas of the venue. The ideal candidate will have previous experience of housekeeping in a busy venue, the ability to work under pressure and a flexible attitude to accommodate customer needs through morning, evening and weekend work, according to venue occupancy.

To apply for any of the above roles please send a covering letter and CV to Lisa McVickers lisa.mcvickers@salomons-estate.com

RECRUITMENT

We are looking for a Gardener for a private household with 57 acres where the duties will include but not limited to the following: Planting new trees, flowers and various plants n Maintaining flower beds, shrubs roses & rose beds, hedges and natural woodland; n maintaining grass areas to include mowing, strimming, edging, and renovation tasks n Making sure that all garden equipment is correctly maintained and serviced n Clearing rubbish and litter away from the garden and grounds n Maintain garden paths in a clean and safe condition – including pressure washing, weeding and brooming. n Cleaning and maintaining all statues and garden features n Carry out pruning work, using ladders n Assisting with the minor landscape works You will be working as part of a team of 3 Estates hands. n

Driving licence essential due to location. Salary £18,000 Holiday entitlement 22 days + bank holidays.

PM

Advertise with us... Times of Tunbridge Wells Largest circulated newspaper in the area Out every Wednesday Total weekly reach 57,000+

01892 779 580 or email advertising@onemediauk.co.uk

ltd

Commercial & Residential Property Management

Integra Property Management Causeway House, Chiddingstone Causeway, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 8JP. Contact: Chantel Tester • 01246 223038 8 Chantel.tester@ipm-ltd.co.uk

LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

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t s e F y lb e h S e th t a s u Join 14TH & 15TH AUGUST

TWO DAY EVENT WITH MARQUEE, STAGE & LOCAL BANDS THERE WILL BE

WHERE IS IT

Saturday 14th August

6pm to 11pm • Local Bands Headlined by Ultimate Earth Wind and Fire plus Harry Cambridge as Luther Vandross

TICK AVAIL ETS A ON THBLE DOORE

Sunday 15th August

Midday to 6pm • Local Bands Headlined by The Skalites and The Fizz with Cheryl Baker, Mike Nolan and Jay Aston EARLY BIRD TICKET PRICES

Saturday 14th

Adults £25 (over 18s only) (food & drink available at the bar)

Sunday 15th Family Day Adults £25 each or family of four ticket £70 (food & drink available at the bar)

It is not permitted to bring in your own food and drink.

EARLY BIRD TICKET PRICE AT £45 FOR BOTH DAYS

rofit Not-for-p tion organisa ations – all don raised go direct

Bush, Blackbird and Thrush, 194 Bush Road, East Peckham, Tonbridge TN12 5LN. We’d love you to join us for one or both events to raise money for this fantastic cause. Local B&B’s listed on our website.

Don’t miss this fantastic fund raising event!

Buy tickets online at shelbynewstead.com

SPONSORS NEEDED FOR THE EVENT!

We are a small children’s charity that is making a big difference to the lives of children with serious illnesses.

The Friends of Shelby Newstead will strictly adhere to all Government Covid 19 guidance. The Friends of Shelby Newstead have a zero tolerance to drugs

www.shelbynewstead.com

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Food & Culture

Make Space For a gritty band at The Forum on Saturday

Page 38

Dunn & dusted Baking book is on the rise Page 33

& h t l a e H g n i e b l l We TURE FEA

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Food & Culture

arts

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

The dramatic rise and fall of the extraordinary Boleyn dynasty… The first episode of The Boleyns: A Scandalous Family airs on BBC Two this Friday (August 13). The three-part series brings the family’s scheming story to life through stylish dramatic reconstructions – many of which take place at the family seat of Hever Castle and Penshurst Place where King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn courted. Eileen Leahy finds out more…

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ONG before the Kennedys or the Kardashians we had the Boleyns and a new BBC2 series aims to give an intimate look into one of England’s most notorious family’s dynamics. The Boleyns: A Scandalous Family is a three-part docu-drama series which will shine a spotlight on the iconic Boleyn family whose family seat was at Hever Castle. A BBC spokesperson described the series, the first episode of which airs this coming Friday (August 13) as being ‘filled with intrigue, sex, rivalry, betrayal, and tragedy.’ “They were a family who did what no other Tudor family had done before, changing the fate of a nation for the promise of a crown.” Using expert interviews with the likes of renowned historian Dr Owen Emerson and dramatic reconstruction, the series, made by BBC Studios, provides a unique perspective on a thrilling tale. “The past is all too often reduced to the exploits of exceptional individuals, but this series reveals how the rivalry of a few families changed the course of the Tudor

age, focusing on the story of how one family dynasty was founded – only to spectacularly flounder,” continues the spokesperson. With gripping storytelling, the series takes an inside look at the social climbing, backstabbing and power games that

“This is a story filled with intrigue, sex, rivalry, betrayal, and tragedy” ensured success at the Tudor court. The right move could make you the most powerful dynasty in England… the wrong move could lose you your status, or your head. “Across three episodes we witness the rise of this extraordinary dynasty who skilfully outmanoeuvre all their rivals but who in the end paid a heavy price,” adds the BBC spokesperson. Over the course of the series you will see familiar places such as Hever Castle and

can’t tell you how special it is to see this complex and moving portrayal played out at the Boleyn’s stunning home of Hever Castle.” So what’s it all about? Well in the first episode we learn the story of Thomas Boleyn, a charming Dramatic opportunist determined to make his mark at the Filming at both locations took Tudor court of Henry Vll. place earlier this year in He is driven, talented and February. “This was a very likeable, and seizes every special production to be chance to promote involved in, not least because himself and the Boleyn of the sub-zero temperatures family name. that we fought in early The Boleyns made February during the filming,” a their money as wool Penshurst Place merchants, and all they representative told us. need now is for The Bolyens: A Thomas to make a Scandalous Family good marriage crew filmed at match. When he Hever Castle the marries Elizabeth week before. On Howard, a girl seeing the from a noble preview Dr family, it’s a Emerson ANNE BOLEYN: (Rafaëlle Cohen) match of mutual said: “I Penshurst Place featured as the backdrop for the dramatic docu-drama scenes. Hever Castle was Anne Boleyn’s childhood home while King Henry VIII once owned Penshurst Place and is believed to have secretly courted Anne there.

Food & Culture

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

may never be in this position again; Anne and her family scheme to achieve what she wants … and she wants to be Queen.

Backstabbing It’s a bold move, as the King is still married to Katherine of Aragon, but Henry is obsessed and demands that his marriage be annulled. Political changes in Rome and a new Holy Roman

“The Boleyns were a family who did what no other Tudor family had done before, changing the fate of a nation for the promise of a crown”

ILL-FATED Anne and her brother George (Sam Retford) Anne, fresh from France, becomes part of Queen Katherine’s court, and it takes no time before she has dazzled the whole court including the King. Through intimate letters King Henry VIII reveals his true desire for Anne. Realising they

Emperor related to Queen Katharine, means the annulment has now become impossible. Wolsey’s failure to deliver leaves him vulnerable and the Boleyns are ready to pounce. They turn on him, but once they have dispatched Wolsey, the ‘great matter’ of divorce remains unresolved.

POLITICAL UNCLE Thomas Howard (Philip Brodie)

PHOTOS: © BBC Studios

benefit: the Howard title for Boleyn money. Anne spends her most formative years in France and, when she finally returns home, she is grown up, beautiful, intelligent, and full of ideas. She is unlike any woman the Tudor court has experienced. At a lavish pageant organised by the Cardinal, one of the Boleyn sisters, catches the eye of King Henry VIII. Mary, who is by now happily married, is the subject to the King’s advances and has no choice but to submit. Her father Thomas Boleyn isn’t happy about the affair but is amply rewarded by the King when he is made a Viscount. The Boleyns are well and truly on their way. Episode two sees the Boleyns ascending to the very top but making deadly enemies along the way. The Boleyn family rise to its zenith – and we see them at their sharpest, most unified, and successful. The Boleyn name has become more prominent, with Thomas Boleyn rising steadily through the ranks. His daughter Mary has survived her short-lived affair with the King and there is no doubt Thomas Boleyn has reaped the benefits. He is able to get his son George a job at court. A chip off the old block, George Boleyn TW_FINAL.pdf 1 15/06/2021 11:53 benefits from the influence his father now wields.

Tell your dog to clear their diary At Bruce’s Tunbridge Wells we’ve packed all our expertise into designing a doggy day care dedicated to unleashing happiness and enriching the lives of dogs and their families. C

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FLOWER GIRLS ‘The Other Boleyn Girl’ – Mary (Elizabeth McCafferty) with sister Anne

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The whole court is in uproar as Anne and the King’s relationship becomes common knowledge and now the naked ambition of the Boleyns is clear for all to see as they plan their next move. The final episode is a Tudor cautionary tale, showing that when a family rises so high eventually the only way is down. The Boleyns move to fill the power vacuum left by Cardinal Wolsey. The King still wants his first marriage declared illegal, but the Pope refuses to play ball. Meanwhile Henry has secretly married Anne and she has given birth to their daughter Elizabeth. It is the young George Boleyn who delivers a well-argued and impassioned speech to the clergy, who agree that Henry should be the head of the Church and that the one true church should be the Church of England. This gives the King authority to annul his own marriage to Katherine, make their daughter Mary illegitimate and make Anne his Queen. The Boleyns were now on top of the world. But as we all know that isn’t the final chapter for the Boleyns, as another Queen, Elizabeth, takes the throne - who proves to be the greatest and most enduring Boleyn of them all…

Food & Culture

food

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

MAKING THE CUT Lily Spencer, from the STEAK restaurant at One Warwick Park Hotel in Tunbridge Wells, tells us about the origins of one of the nation’s favourite food…

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teak is one of the most popular foods worldwide, eaten in many different countries and in lots of different cuts and styles. It is a meat people love and crave and usually what you might choose to eat when celebrating a special occasion. You can eat on its own, with a sauce or just simply seasoned. It’s the meat that belongs to a steakhouse – as there is no such thing as a chickenhouse or fish-house! Steak is the king of the meats… We eat steak, not because it’s fashionable, nor because it is cheap, as it isn’t really any of those things. We eat steak, simply because it tastes so good. Whether you like it blue, rare, medium, or well-done, the mouth-watering taste when the first warm bite touches your lips, and the feeling that you have when indulging in it, that is the reason we eat it steak. So, where was steak invented? Well, the word steak is from the middle of the 15th century and originates from Scandinavia, which is where steak itself is thought to

A charming family run pub, with six beautiful boutique bedrooms, hidden amongst the woodland of The Common in Tunbridge Wells. Whether you are having a lazy lunch, enjoying a cosy dinner or catching up with friends, we are the perfect place to relax.

‘We take care of the hard work and ensure you will have a steak that is crisp on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside’

MEAT FEAST STEAK restaurant and [right] James Salisbury originate from. However, it is likely different cuts of steak became popular at different times. During The American Civil War, a doctor, James Salisbury, created the Salisbury Steak. A steak made from a blend of ground beef and other ingredients, usually served with gravy. Dr Salisbury suggested that we

should eat at least three of these meat portions every day. Steak has so many ways it can be cooked and such a variety of cuts, we couldn’t pinpoint when the first steak was served! Now, in 2021 steak has never been so popular. We can’t get enough of the juicy beef and indulging in it with

Eat. Drink. Stay. Enjoy. Tel: 01892 618854 Email: hello @themountedgcumbe.com Website: www.themountedgcumbe.com

friends, family and colleagues. At STEAK Tunbridge Wells we take care of the hard work and ensure you will have a steak that is crisp on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside. STEAK, open Wednesday-Sunday. Call 0189255259 to book. steaktunbridgewells.co.uk

Over the last year we have adapted to prioritise both our customer and staff’s safety, whilst not compromising on experience. Our spacious heated marquee is perfect for any occasion come rain or shine. Take a look on our website for more details of our rooms, menus and how to book.

Food & Culture

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

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Sugar, cake, and the impact of pandemic baking Blogger Jane Dunn has seen interest in her bakes grow exponentially since the pandemic hit. Ella Walker finds out about her debut cookbook CHOCOLATE cheesecake crepes. Pina colada cupcakes. White chocolate biscotti. Chocolate cherry babka. Bakewell blondies. Such bakes – are you lulled into a confectioner’s heaven, too? This is the pattern of food writer Jane Dunn’s debut cookbook, named after her blog, Jane’s Patisserie. Sweet treat after sweet treat; each one seemingly promising comfort, deliciousness and nostalgia. The 28 year old has been blogging her bakes for around six-and-a-half years, creating recipes designed to suit all skill levels – hence why she wouldn’t dream of judging you for buying ready-made caramel (it involves far less risk of singeing your fingers on molten sugar), and gladly recommends decorating her no-bake millionaire’s cheesecake with shop-bought millionaire shortbread bites. Jane’s Patisserie the cookbook presents her easy-breezy chocolateadoring ethos in paper form – and “you can get it messy!” says Jane, which means no more coating your phone in flour as you scroll to the next step in the recipe. Eliminating fear around baking is something that underpins Jane’s bakes. Each comes with customisable elements, so you can amp up flavour combinations, swap in ingredients you do have for ones you don’t, and avoid having to nip to the shops mid-mix for a missing item. “I tried to cover all bases so people can just have fun with it, and not be scared,” explains Jane. “With cooking, you can sort of wing it mostly, but with baking, it is science. So you have to get it right mostly.” She’s hoping her nifty comments and reassuring advice will ease any oven-related concerns. Jane grew up in Hampshire, loving baking, a fascination passed onto her

by her late grandmother. “My mum always tells me I’m so like her,” she says, emphasising the fun that can come from turning flour, butter, eggs and sugar into something spectacular and shareable. “I like seeing people’s faces – nothing is better than when you arrive at a friend’s house and you’ve brought cookies. If somebody’s having a bad day, a good day, or whatever, they’re gonna go, ‘Ohh!’ And then suddenly, everyone’s just in a different mood.”

BAKERY STAR Blogger Jane Dunn Jane – who is inspired by legends Mary Berry, Nadia Hussain, Nigella Lawson and Delia Smith – hopes our renewed appreciation for baking doesn’t wane. “I’d love to see it grow and people to fall more in love with [it].” Funnily enough, Jane admits she (shock horror) actually prefers savoury food… “Maybe, probably because I have so much sugar in my life every day, I actually adore savoury food,” she says with a laugh. “I love saltiness. But baking is best to share. Baking is better to bring to a party.” The occasion factor, the way bakes are used to celebrate and adorn an event, is what her recipes revolve around, “so for me, I love savoury foods, but I’m always happy to bake something.”

Peers Realising her initial plans to study graphic design or architecture at university weren’t to be, Jane leapt into an “intense” six-month cookery course in Devon, with a view to work on patisserie in restaurants. Cookery school helped her understand that, “I want to do this with my life, completely and utterly”, she says. But the industry is a tough one, and while her peers went into the kitchens of super yachts, Rosette and Michelin starred restaurants, she found she “wasn’t a massive fan” of the lifestyle and began blogging instead. By April 2020, she’d hit around 200,000 followers, but as the first lockdown drove many of us towards banana bread and comfort baking, more and more people began to discover her blog. “I don’t think I ever could have imagined it. It was surreal,” she says now, with three-quarters of a million Instagram followers to her name. “Everyone was just baking so much stuff every day. It was amazing to see it. I’d get comments from teachers saying, ‘We made this in class over Zoom!’ It was the cutest thing,” she recalls.

Disorder

Jane’s Patisserie by Jane Dunn is published by Ebury Press on August 5, priced £20. Photography by Ellis Parrinder.

What she does find problematic is when sugar is demonised, and when people make comments that connect food with guilt and judgement. “I’ve suffered with an eating disorder in the past,” she notes, “so I find it quite difficult when people make those associations.” Comments like, ‘that’s diabetes on a plate’ she says are unhelpful, potentially harmful and “can be insulting to people who do have diabetes, whether it’s type one or two”. It’s also unnecessary when “everything is about balance, at the end of the day. My recipes are

designed to be for an occasion, not something you eat every second of the day.” Within a balanced diet, enjoying the odd slice of cake is perfectly reasonable – “even if it’s full of sugar,” says Jane, “which I think makes it taste beautiful! “[Sugar] exists, people enjoy it,” she continues. “And that’s what you should do with food, whether it’s low calorie, high calorie, savoury or sweet.” It’s when someone has the opinion “of food as being scary” that things may have tipped, and professional support may be needed. Jane’s bakes focus on bringing the joy, and as you’d imagine, stumble into her kitchen and you’ll find an incredible stash of sweet treats. She buys her baking chocolate in huge bags, and then, because her bakes demand it of course, she’ll “go down the supermarket and buy 10 Terry’s Chocolate Orange, five giant Toblerone…” Her friends and family reckon she has the best snack cupboard that’s ever existed, which is fortunate, because they – and her local coffee shop – help her keep cake waste to a minimum. So what’s next for Jane? “I just want to roll with it and see where my baking takes me,” she says. “I’m a normal person, just chilling, baking cake. But the rate it’s grown, I’m like, how far can this go? It’s just cake! But it’s so much fun.” Jane looks set to ride that icing wave, and happily take us with her.

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Food & Culture

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

gardening

How to make the colours of summer stretch into autumn in your garden Award-winning garden designer Andrew Duff looks at late showstoppers that just keep on giving

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F your bedding plants are looking a bit bedraggled and your perennials are past their best, it may be time to plan to include some late summer showstoppers in your borders, to take over where your earlier blooms have faded. “The real challenge for late summer is that, for most people, the garden has just begun to go over,” says award-winning designer Andrew Duff, garden design faculty director at Inchbald School of Design (inchbald.co.uk). “It’s had its wow moment in early and mid-summer, but in the UK, late summer can get very warm again and it’s a different kind of light, a warmer light. It can be a very magical time.” Green foliage, interesting seed heads left on plants that have gone over and surprising pops of colour from strategically placed pots, can all help perk up the late summer garden, he observes. “The key is to think about succession planting,” he

advises. “What is coming next?” Consider light levels “The sun is getting lower and slightly more orange/yellow. I have a term I use called ‘light captures’, plants that really capture the light and make it glow, particularly in late afternoon,” says Duff. “Good subjects for this include persicaria, which are covered in wonderful green foliage which will continue through summer, and then the flowerheads – depending on the variety you pick – will remain right the way through.” Look ahead to early autumn “The structure of seed heads is really important. So choose plants that are going to work really hard when everything else is beginning to fade. “Don’t be afraid of using stalwarts like evergreen grasses such as Stipa arundinacea (pheasant’s tail grass, now called Anemanthele lessoniana) which is a fantastic grass that provides all-year-round interest.

It’s evergreen, will grow in almost any situation, in any light, any soil. “In mid-summer it has a haze of fluffy flowerheads, but then the structure of the grass

‘Think about secondflowerers. Cut back catmint in early summer’ continues into late summer. Due to the fineness of its leaves, it becomes a ‘light catcher’, catching and holding the light in the planting scheme. It’s fantastic with persicaria and has a slight golden tone to it, so anything on a golden spectrum works well. “The other grass I’d recommend is a miscanthus. By mid-summer they are in full foliage and by late summer they are coming into flower.

GREEN FINGERS Andrew Duff

Food & Culture

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

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SKIRTING THE EDGES A late sumer border

BLUES AND HUES Pot of colourful annuals “I like to use Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’ which has a slightly pink flower and grows to around 1.5m, giving you some height difference in the border, when structure is important. “That flower will hold its form right the way through to early autumn, and then the dry flowerheads and leaves hold right the way through into winter. Cut it down in spring, when green shoots start to come up at the bottom.” Add late summer colour “Think about second-flowerers. I use catmint (nepeta). Cut it back when it has finished flowering initially in early summer. By midsummer the foliage should be back up and by late summer you’ll get a second bloom. “You can do that with perennial geraniums

too. Just be brave, cut them back, and they should reward you in late summer with a second flush of flowers. “Lamiums can also be cut back after flowering in early summer and the foliage will come back strong later in the season.” Use hot surprises Add late-flowering pops of colour such as the brilliant orange/red Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’, which can look brilliant in the late summer sun and grow higher than some of their relatives, says Duff. “It’s not all about flower colour, it’s about the excitement of change in the garden,” he adds. “The last of the summer flowers are special and rewarding.” Rudbeckias provide zingy yellow daisy-like

flowers in mid to late summer, but their interest continues with the dark seedheads which will brown off into autumn, he notes.

‘My local supermarket sells some amazing plants through the year’ “Anything that keeps a seed head in the autumn is good value for money. There’s a huge trend coming through in really recognising the seasons, probably due to the pandemic and people seeing spring arrive and a bud opening. “We are going to begin to see less of a trend for the garden looking what we perceive as

SUMMER COCKTAILS Come and sample some of the delicious creations on our new cocktail menu at The Blue Anchor this summer. Best enjoyed with friends in our secluded garden!

Get in touch for more information 01892 319299 info@blueanchorcrowborough.co.uk Beacon Road, Crowborough, TN6 1BB

THINK PINK… with persicaria

incredible all year round, and we are having more distinct seasonal change.” Use pots to perk up borders “Don’t think that everything has to be permanent,” says Duff. “I bought some incredible orange foxgloves and just positioned them in the border in their pots. I love the idea of adding things to a display which aren’t permanent, but keep it visually exciting. “My local supermarket sells some amazing plants right the way through the year. Some of that annual colour can move into late summer, so don’t be afraid to buy some impulsive plants and place the pots within the green foliage.”

Food & Culture

health & wellbeing

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Are men lagging behind in the health stakes? 6 common issues and what to do about them With new book Man Alive, Dr Jeff Foster is on a mission to address the gaps in men’s health. Lisa Salmon digs deeper…

B

where we’re expected to look tough, eing a man is bad for your have big beards and appear health. Or so says Jeff masculine, but simultaneously be Foster – and as a GP, male happy to cry and open up about our health specialist and a man weaknesses and fears. himself, he should know. “Men are conditioned to develop “Compared with women, men not health practices and habits that only have a greater chance of increase their risk of disease contracting almost every and make it harder for illness, but they die them to seek medical sooner too,” says advice when they Foster, who has now need it.” It doesn’t authored new book have to be that Man Alive: The way, though. “Bad Health Problems health isn’t Men Face And How inevitable for men. To Fix Them. The key is to Part of the empower men with problem, he says, the knowledge they stems from the fact need to understand that as they grow up, Dr Jeff Foster their own bodies and males are “generally minds.” encouraged to avoid looking after their health” – despite the HERE, FOSTER OUTLINES SIX plethora of self-help books pitched COMMON MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES, at helping them gain six-pack abs AND HOW TO DEAL WITH THEM… and the body of an Adonis. 1. Testosterone deficiency or “But men’s health is more than ‘manopause’ looking good,” Foster points out. “As “Nearly a million men are affected children, we’re told not to ‘cry like a by low testosterone, and numbers girl’, and ‘man up!’, and this are increasing each year. internalisation of health problems Testosterone deficiency, also known continues as we develop. As adults, as andropause or ‘manopause’, men now live in a confusing society

mimics a lot of the symptoms seen in female menopause. However, it can affect men from age 30-90 years, it’s not guaranteed every man will get it, and for a large number who are affected, the symptoms are trivialised or just put down to working too hard, or mid-life crisis. “Symptoms include tiredness, falling asleep at the end of the day, decreased libido, increased body fat/decreased muscle, poor concentration/ brain fog, and being more irritable. In the later stages, men may also suffer night sweats,

changes to cholesterol and blood pressure, diabetes risk, and osteoporosis (bone thinning). “Diagnosis is via a simple blood test, which has to be interpreted correctly, and in the context of the patient as a whole. Treatment involves fixing the cause, or going onto testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which when used properly can be life-changing, reducing the risk of other serious medical problems, improving quality of life, and can save save jobs, marriages and families.”

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2. Mental health “Around one in eight men in the UK will suffer mental health problems at some point, and globally, suicide rates remain higher in men. Male attitudes towards mental health remain resistant to change, and while I now see plenty of younger men with depression or anxiety symptoms, it’s still rare to hear a man over the age of 40 talk about his mental health. “The reason for this is a combination of social, psychological, and hormonal pressures that result in many men failing to open up about their mental problems. But while it’s an uphill struggle, there are things we can do. The first thing is not to assume all mental health problems are psychological. Various medical problems can result in changes in the way we think and should be checked. “Secondly, and most importantly, we need to start opening up. It doesn’t need to be with a doctor necessarily, but even a friend, or anyone we can open up to. Of course, there are medications, talking therapies and a range of other options available, but the key to changing male mental health is giving men the tools and social acceptance of being able to say, ‘It’s ok to cry’.”

‘It’s said that if we live long enough, all men will eventually have some degree of prostate cancer’ 3. Prostate disease “It’s said that if we live long enough, all men will eventually have some degree of prostate cancer. It’s the most common cancer in men, accounting for a quarter of all cancer cases. But despite this, we have no national screening programme. We can do prostate specific antigen (PSA) tests, but when taken in isolation, they are often useless. We’re able to diagnose and monitor those cancers that are mild and often don’t require aggressive treatment, but we often miss or can do little for those that grow and spread quickly. “There are things you can do to reduce your risk of prostate cancer, including avoiding being overweight, exercising regularly, avoiding excess calcium, considering taking vitamin D, and getting a regular health check.” 4. Erectile dysfunction (ED) “About half of men suffer with ED at some point, yet it remains a taboo subject. Men get ED for a reason; it could be due to neurological or metabolic causes (such as diabetes), anxiety or stress, hormone deficiencies, or narrowing of the blood supply to the penis. In fact, this last cause is so important, it’s accepted that if you have a vascular cause for ED, you have about three

Man Alive: The Health Problems Men Face And How To Fix Them by Dr Jeff Foster is published by Piatkus, priced £14.99. Available now. years until it affects your heart (resulting in a heart attack). The penis is a barometer of health. Pills like Viagra can be highly effective in treating ED, but only if you know the underlying cause.” 5. Cardiovascular health and obesity “Even with all the fitness, nutrition and wellness information available, obesity levels in men are still climbing every year. As a result, men have higher rates of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type two diabetes, heart disease and stroke. When it comes to long-term sustainable weight loss, the best advice is to avoid diets that restrict certain foods (paleo, keto) and those that radically reduce calories – we just don’t know the effects on long-term health. “When it comes to exercise, it’s far simpler: everyone should be doing it. There’s no single best type of exercise, but we’re not built to be sedentary, and exercise has been shown to reduce the risks of virtually every medical condition.” 6. Hair loss and beard growth “This seems like an odd topic to include, but both baldness and beard growth are becoming increasingly associated as significant causes of anxiety and depression in men. We’re told to just accept going bald, but it can really affect

someone’s identity and body image. The issues apply to beard growth too, with ‘beard anxiety’ often seen in younger men who strive to grow a thick, bushy beard like their celebrity idols. As a result, the market for lotions and pills that claim

to aid hair growth is enormous, but most of it is nonsense. There are well-established and evidenced-based treatments available for hair loss and hair growth, but always speak to a doctor to work out the right one for you.”

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Food & Culture

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

Great Yarmouth – the seaside A Johnny Green spends a long weekend sampling old and new delights in the popular seaside town

beautifully tended gardens, crazy golf and, best of all, an old penny arcade with vintage amusement machines still able to emit much mirth. Another opportunity to travel back in time presents itself when I ride the wooden roller coaster at the Pleasure Beach (pleasure-beach.co.uk; £13.50), an historic amusement park first opened in 1909. The ride has been operating in Great Yarmouth since 1932 and is an absolute joy, with just the right amount of scary. The Sky Drop, on the other hand, is more than I can handle these days. A recent addition is the Great Yarmouth Giant Wheel – or the Yarmouth Eye as it’s become better known (greatyarmouthwheel.com; £8). The 50-metre Ferris wheel offers fabulous views over the town, inland and out to sea, perfectly representing the faces of Great Yarmouth past and present.

travel

GOLDEN MILE of pristine sands, amusements and attractions stretches ahead of me, glittering in the late evening light. In the distance, on a watery horizon, large turbines are rotating – furiously harnessing wind whipping across the North Sea. These spinning giants have helped re-energise this part of Norfolk, with Great Yarmouth and its neighbouring port of Lowestoft at the very centre of Britain’s renewables boom.

BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS RESTORATIONS AND NEW AND BUILDS NEW BUILDS

‘It’s hard to imagine one of England’s treasured seaside towns powering so much innovation’ It’s hard to imagine one of England’s treasured seaside towns could be powering so much innovation – but Great Yarmouth is full of surprises, I discover on a weekend away. Located in Norfolk, where the sea meets the famous Broads, the resort town is undergoing a transformation when I arrive: a former Debenhams store has been converted into amusingly named gallery and arts space, Primeyarc (originalprojects.co.uk); the Grade II-listed Empire Cinema is being revamped; and there’s a buzz of street food, craft ales, artisan coffee and live music all over. Fortunately, however, some past glories remain intact. On a trip to the seafront

SMALL TOWN Johnny in the model village at Merrivale arcades – stopping briefly for a photo with Knight Rider’s KITT parked up on Marine Parade, I make some great finds. First and foremost, I’m stunned to discover a two pence piece still holds any value. I hopefully push the copper coin into one of the many machines at Leisureland, where garish lights and piercing bleeps send me on a trip to the neon streets of Tokyo. But

BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS

the entertainment here is distinctly British. I find more fun and games at Merrivale Model Village (merrivalemodelvillage. co.uk; £9.99), a meticulously crafted town of animated scenes, containing everything from a busy nightclub to an energetic crowd at a music festival – everything we’ve been unable to enjoy during the pandemic. Other attractions include

WHERE TO STAY Sixteen years ago, Andover House was transformed into a beautiful hotel – and most staff have been there since day one. Such longevity reveals how well a place is managed, and I can thoroughly recommend a stay in this picturesque Victorian house, set on a beautiful tree-lined avenue, 100m from the seafront. Doubles from £79 with breakfast. Visit andoverhouse.co.uk. WHAT TO EAT? A significant Portuguese community provide many fine restaurants and much

BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS

Get in touch Gettoday in touch to talk today to us to about talk toyour us about project: your project: 01580 857718 01580| 857718 07587 272928 | 07587| 272928 mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk

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Wednesday August 11 | 2021

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resort seizing a wind of change… BOARDWALK The pier mixes Victorian and modern attractions

NIGHT LIFE Great Yarmouth has traditional arcades and [above] sandy beaches

warmth in the area. Try Coffee Ventura II on 154 King Street, run by a charming couple from Lisbon, Juan and Luisa Ventura in the centre of town, or Galante Cafe (46 St George’s Road), serving seafood dishes, such as octopus and sea bass. Afterwards, head to the Mariner’s Tavern (facebook.com/marinerstavern) for a selection of fantastic local ales and ciders, at probably the best and friendliest pub in town. WHAT ELSE TO DO FURTHER AFIELD? Driving out of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk’s beauty – sometimes remote and with a touch of the end of the world – really takes hold and penetrates. Gorgeous stretches of golden sand lie north and south at Winterton-on-Sea and Gorleston-on-Sea

– which featured in Danny Boyle’s 2019 Beatles-inspired film, Yesterday. For food, try the wonderful Reedham Ferry Inn (reedhamferry.co.uk), run by the Archer family since 1949. Find it nestled beside the River Yare Reedham Ferry, surely one of the smallest ferries in the world, taking a maximum of two cars aboard each crossing. And if you are fortunate enough to visit this part of the country, you have to go to the Broads. Hire a boat and enter a world of Swallows and Amazons. HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP For more information, go to visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk.

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Food & Culture

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

goingout 7 days of activities

By Daisy Rich-Overall

MAGICAL MATILDA CHILDREN will be running riot during Trinity Youth Theatre’s production of ‘Matilda the Musical Jr.,’ on August 14. Join the cast of 8-14 year olds as they dazzle their audience with fabulously funny songs by Tim Minchin and script adaptation by the award-winning Dennis Kelly. Based on the much loved 1988 classic by children’s author Roald Dahl, ‘Matilda’ tells the tale of a young girl gifted with wit, intelligence and magical powers. Determined to have a better life without the bullying from her parents, Matilda seeks friendship with her loveable teacher Miss Honey. Unfortunately, not all teachers are as charming. The school’s cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchball, wreaks havoc with her harsh punishments on Matilda’s fellow pupils. Will Matilda’s courage and cleverness help her friends to take down the biggest bully in school? With show-stopping tunes “Revolting Children” and “Naughty”, you’ll spend the rest of the evening tapping your toes and humming your way home. Multiple shows are running from 11.30am to 8pm. Ticket are priced at £7.50 from trinitytheatre.net/events WATCH THIS… Space are performing at The Forum at the weekend SUMMER is well and truly here, despite the weather not being able to make up its mind, and there’s plenty to do for adults, families and children alike this August. At the Times we’ve made a list of things to see and do all over Tunbridge Wells and its local areas to make the most of the Garden of England during the summer holidays… SPACED OUT CHART-TOPPING band Space will be performing at The Forum on August 14. Following the release of their new album “Music for Pleasure Music for Pain” Tommy, Franny and the boys are touring the UK. The band are resuming their tour after cancellation due to Covid and are ready to deliver their award-winning gritty pop songs. Space have sold over five million records worldwide with their albums “Spiders” and “Tin Planet”, having earned double platinum disc status from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI). The night will include hits such as “Neighborhood”, “Female of the Species”, “Me and You Vs. The World” “Avenging Angels” “Dark Clouds” and “Begin Again”. Tickets are available from August 11 at 10am from twforum.co.uk/events HACIENDA NIGHTS LOVE FOREVER 90s Festival will be landing in Colebrook Park, Tunbridge Wells on August 13-15. Celebrate in true raver fashion in the beautiful Kent woodland with legendary hip-hop, acid house and trip hop across five stages. Live performances and DJ sets that hark back to nights at The Hacienda, Big Beat Boutique and The Bomb will electrify the breathtaking country landscape. The festival will be featuring Stereo MC’s (Live), 808 State (Live), K-Klass, Adamski, King of The Beats (Krafty Kuts b2b Freestylers b2b Plump DJs), The Scratch Perverts, DJ Paulette,

Graeme Park, Jon Da Silva, Lisa Loud, A. Skillz, The Nextmen, Shades of Rhythm, and many more… Dancing with local and established talent will start from 11am and roll on into the night finishing at 2am. Covid-secure measures will be put into place with the capacity capped at 1500 to keep everyone safe and happy. Choose between day tickets or a full weekend including camping. For ticket prices and booking information, visit liveforever 90s.co.uk

WORDSMITH WORKSHOP JOIN Anita Mangan at Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, for a free family drawing workshop on August 17, with exclusive video clips of her much-loved actor and author brother, Stephen Mangan. He has combined creative forces with his sister Anita to publish their first children’s book “Escape the Rooms”. The Guardian says the book is “Richly imagined, deeply heartfelt, and Anita Mangan’s cartoonish and poignant illustrations capture the tone perfectly”. The story follows two children who make their way through a series of mysterious rooms solving riddles and finding clues on a mission to find their way home. You will be introduced to the comic

MAKING A BREAK FOR IT Author of Escape the Room Anita Mangan is at the Assembly Hall

and wacky world of the book and shown how to create your own crazy characters. The event is suitable for 7-11 year olds and starts at 10.30am. Places are limited and the event requires pre-booking at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk COUNTRYSIDE OLYMPICS CHALLENGE your friends, family, bosses and neighbours at Cranbrook RFC’s first Weald Rural Games this August 14. This event is sure to get the family howling with traditional games, including tug-o-war, welly wanging, egg and spoon race, cow pat bingo, and many more. There will be live rugby with the women’s kick-off at 12.30pm and the men’s kick-off at 2.30pm. The evening will end in an epic La Tomatina Fight at 5.30pm, so you can get back at your friends with a tomato in the face. Live music from the infamous rock and country band’ Crooked Style’ and duelling banjos from ‘Charlie and Ford’ will keep the spirits high. Quality food, including paella, burgers and strawberry and marshmallow kebabs, will be available as well as a fully stocked bar. All proceeds towards the event are donated to Cranbrook RFC, Hospice and the Weald and Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex. Admission will be £1 with individual prices for each event. For more information, please visit wealdgames.co.uk

Books

Wednesday August 11 | 2021

The bookcase… Reading has become ever more popular during lockdowns and Covid restrictions. Enjoy this week’s suggested top reads…

FICTION

1. Billy Summers by Stephen King

Published in hardback by Hodder & Stoughton, priced £20 (ebook £10.99). Available now

8/10

Times book reviewer

HANNAH KIRSOP

Contract killer Billy Summers is offered a fortune to carry out one final hit job – with the promise he could spend the rest of his life drinking pina coladas in the sunshine. With his reputation for doing a Houdini disappearing act after a killing, and an assurance that the target is a very bad person – one of Billy’s conditions – he agrees. The Iraq war veteran plans the shooting meticulously, but grows increasingly suspicious. It’s tough to not like the different characters Billy meets, and in some cases impersonates. They are all believable, interesting, shocking and help keep the reader guessing from plot to sub-plot. It’s yet another gripping thriller from the legendary King who may have made his name writing horror but is just as adept at the crime thriller.(Review by Alan Jones)

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2. The Country Of Others by Leila Slimani Published in hardback by Faber & Faber, priced £14.99 (ebook £10.82). French-Moroccan novelist Leila Slimani’s third novel, The Country Of Others, is a powerful and moving exploration of early decolonisation in 1950s Morocco. Centred on the lives of French woman Mathilde, married to soldier and farmer Amine, their daughter Aicha, and Amine’s sister, the beautiful Selma, the novel is the first in a planned trilogy based around the author’s

own family history. Slimani creates an immersive and stunningly described fictional world and ratchets up the tension as the novel ambles towards its sudden climax. The book is nuanced in its perspective – but at times the pace feels slow-moving, and events at a distance from the characters. (Review by Jessica Frank-Keyes)

8/10

3. She Who Became The Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan

Published in hardback by Mantle, priced £16.99 (ebook £8.99). Available now In famine-stricken China in the mid1300s, a poor second daughter sets out on a journey eventually leading her to life as one of the most powerful emperors of the Ming Dynasty. A brutal, war-strewn epic, Parker-Chan’s world building is beautiful and detailed with queer reimaginings of history. The subsequent exploration of gender is one of the strongest parts of the book. However, described as The Song Of Achilles-meetsMulan, it doesn’t quite live up to this promise. The central love story feels forced and onedimensional, and the pacing of the book also struggles, bogged down by excessive details and characters. (Review by Megan Baynes)

6/10

EVENTFUL SUMMER

Amy & Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout

(published by Simon & Schuster UK, priced £8.99) This gently engaging and perceptive story follows the relationship of a mother and daughter over the course of an eventful summer during which Amy embarks on an affair with one of her teachers. The shame attached to this is a catalyst for her mother, Isabelle, to address her feelings about her own past.

8/10

The affair is the big-ticket event of the story but it isn’t this that drives the narrative; rather the beauty of the book lies in the tiny details of life in a small town in America that continues to tick along regardless of anything else. The juxtaposition of these mundanities of life with the transformative, progressive and cathartic shift in Isabelle’s character, albeit still tinged with sadness, makes for a very satisfying read.

ONE YOU MAY HAVE MISSED

I’m travelling alone by Samuel Bjork (published in paperback by Penguin, priced £8.99)

Hannah Kirsop grew up in Kent and now lives in Horsmonden with her family. She loves to read and share recommendations and runs Bainden Book Club for a group of local women to discuss interesting fiction and non-fiction in a range of genres. You can find www.baindenbookshelf.com online or on Instagram: @baindenbookshelf

When a young girl is found hanging from a tree with a cryptic note around her neck, it is up to police investigator, Holger Munch to lead the enquiry into her death. In assembling his team, however, he realises that this case is far from straightforward and there is one person whose alternative insight will prove crucial – Mia Krüger, his troubled ex-partner. As Mia gets involved, the reader is gripped by two questions does Mia still have what it takes to identify clues no-one else can spot and will she be able to

8/10

keep her own demons at bay long enough to help? A first outing for detective duo Munch and Krüger, this is a great example of a Nordic Noir crime novel with credible characters and nail-biting chapters.