Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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Hundreds are giving the town a boost by eating out to help out By Richard Williams HUNDREDS of people have begun taking advantage of the government scheme aimed at breathing new life back into the struggling hospitality industry. More than 100 bars, restaurants, cafes and pubs in Tunbridge Wells have begun offering discounted meals this week as part of the government’s scheme to help the hospitality industry get back on track. Following three months of lockdown, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme began on Monday [August 3], and already more than a hundred establishments within a five mile radius of the town centre have joined in. And customers are already taking advantage of the scheme in their hundreds by eating out to help the town out. The scheme sees customers enjoy a 50 per cent discount on food and non-alcoholic drinks – up to a maximum of £10 –
on every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the month of August. Ross Feeney, the Chief Executive of Tunbridge Wells Together – the town centre management organisation – says the scheme could really help those businesses that had to remain closed during lockdown and are now having to limit capacity.
‘You can support businesses in the town centre that need your custom’ “Many establishments have had to reduce their capacities to comply with social distancing rules, so although they may look busy or be fully booked at the weekend, this is because they have less
tables available,” he said. He added: “The great thing is you can benefit from the scheme as many times as you want to. “You do not need a voucher and you can use it at the same time as other offers and discounts. “There is no minimum spend and the discount will be automatically available to you at participating establishments.” While many people may feel like they cannot afford to eat out at the moment, it is not just restaurants that are taking part in the Eat Out to Help Scheme. “As a result of the lock down and furlough, for many local residents there is little disposable income this summer, but the scheme means you have the opportunity for a cheaper cup of coffee or a slice of cake,” said Mr Feeney. He continued: “Just as importantly you
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Cinema site project under review in wake of Covid-19 By Richard Williams
WRONG DIRECTION? Traders on the High Street claim council has got the new proposed one way system round the wrong way. P4 OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT: Local care service receives top award and dedicates it to former owner who died earlier this year. P10
SCHOOL’S IN THIS SUMMER: A new Kent summer school has launched online in order to help bridge the academic gaps for students P14
HOT PROPERTY: Don’t miss our best buys on the market this week and all you need to know about commercial to private conversions. P23 CONTACTS EDITORIAL newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richardwilliams@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES RSinger@markerstudy.com | 01892 739763 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews
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CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times Local News we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TF, or email newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
DOUBTS have been raised over the proposed development of the ABC cinema site that has lain derelict for 20 years. Developers told the Times that they are now ‘assessing’ their plans for the flagship initiative at the heart of Tunbridge Wells following the Covid crisis. Cancellation of the project, costing around £80million, would be a major setback for the town particularly as it would follow the scrapping of the nearby Calverley Square £108million theatre complex. Question marks have also been raised over the future of Royal Victoria Place shopping centre. Owners British Land have down-graded the value of all their retail assets by £1billion and its portfolio is now heavily focussed on mixed-use and out of down developments. The former ABC site at the top of Mount Pleasant was set to be turned into a luxury retirement apartment complex, complete with boutique cinema, shops and a 3,000 sq ft restaurant. Now, following the Covid crisis, developer Elysian Residences are looking again at the plans, and may decide to scale-back on the original proposals all though there is concern they could pull out all together. The company, which opened a similar retirement complex this year in Stanmore, north-west London, were due to begin work on The Belvedere development at the beginning of the year. In a statement, Elysian Residences told the Times: “We were preparing to start works on The Belvedere in the first half of 2020.
“We are currently assessing our plans on the site with all stakeholders as a result of the impact of Covid-19. “We promise to update the local community further once these assessments are completed.” With the High Street in decline due to the Covid crisis, it is possible, at the very least, the
Thee firm bought the land from previous developer Altitude in 2017 company may decide to shelve the plans for new retail units. The boutique cinema may also no longer be deemed viable in the age of social distancing. The real fear is that Elysian Residences could pull the plug completely on the development. Coronavirus is disproportionality affecting older people, the very buyers being targeted by Elysian, and the whole sector is currently struggling to attract those tenants. McCarthy and Stone, one of the UK’s largest developers of retirement homes, recently filed a pre-tax loss of £91million in the wake of the Covid crisis. Elysian Residences has also delayed the publication of its UK company accounts, which were due in April 2020. The company is the fifth developer to take on the much-maligned site at the top of Mount Pleasant. The firm bought the land from previous developer Altitude Real Estate, who had proposed a similar scheme in 2017 but pulled out last year.
20 YEARS OF FRUSTRATION The former ABC Cinema site in Tunbridge Wells has remained abandoned since 2000, when the picture house closed. Since then, it has passed through hands five times, but remains a derelict spot in the centre of town. 2000 ABC Cinema closes after operating in Tunbridge Wells for 80 years. 2004 Site is acquired by GLN Copenhagen but despite making a planning enquiry, the firm does not submit any formal plans. 2008 Rydall Properties acquire the land and gets approval for a mixed-use development. 2011 Bellhouse Joseph/Carlye acquire the site and submit plans for a new scheme. 2013 Hope is on the horizon as Bellhouse Joseph demolish the old cinema. 2015 Two years later and the site is back on to the market. 2016 Altitude Real Estate buy the site. 2018 Altitude get new consent for a mixed-use development. 2019 The land is bought by Elysian Residences who base their proposed development on Altitude’s planning permission. 2020 Scheduled development of the site is meant to commence but Covid-19 causes work to be suspended. Elysian Residencies begin ‘assessing’ their plans in the wake of the pandemic.
Council apologises for failing to tell orchestra the theatre will not open TUNBRIDGE Wells Borough Council has apologised to the town’s symphony orchestra, after players read in the Times that their hopes of salvaging anything from their season have been dashed. The Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra [RTWSO] season runs from September to March, but amid the Covid-19 crisis, they have had to cancel all their performances while the Assembly Hall remains closed. The RTWSO was hoping to put on performances at The Assembly Hall in February, to save what they could of their performance year. However, hopes were scuppered musicians read in the Times last
week that the Council has decided the theatre - the only local venue able to house the full 80-piece orchestra – is to stay closed until April 2021, putting an end to their season.
Informed The news came as a blow to the RTWSO, which celebrates its centenary year next year. New chair, Frances Armstong said: “Jane [Cllr March, Cabinet’s head of Culture] has apologised and backtracked a bit and said it is not definite yet. “She said they just wanted to prepare the public but we should have been kept informed.”
Continued from front page can support businesses in the town centre that need your custom. “There are some great cafes and restaurants in the town centre, not just well-known chains, but creative and passionate independent local chefs ‘rustling up’ a range of delicious dishes.” Those taking part in the scheme say it is ‘making a really big difference’. “It is going exceptionally well,” Sedat Zorba, who runs Zorba Meze Grill on Upper Grosvenor Road told the Times. He continued: “I have been booked almost full to capacity for each night it is running this week.
She added: “We are now looking to see what we can do with perhaps finding a venue to put on smaller shows with 10-12 players. “But everything is still up in the air, because we just don’t know what the situation will be and what venues will be allowed to do.” Cllr Jane March, the cabinet’s head of Culture, Leisure and Economic Development at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
“It has made a really big difference and the customers are really enjoying the difference. “It is a great thing for the town.” While at Salomons Country Estate, they received nearly 200 bookings since the scheme started. “We’re offering our traditional Afternoon Tea as part of the scheme and have been very pleased with the results, with over 200 guests having booked so far to join us during August,” said Sime Ercegovic, food and beverage manager. To help people make the most of the scheme, the government has introduced a handy search tool to let you find all the places that are taking part at: www.tax.service.gov.uk/eat-out-to-helpout/find-a-restaurant/
said: “I have apologised to the RTWSO for the delay in advising them of the proposed reopening date.” She continued: “It is likely that shows scheduled from January to April 2021 will need to be cancelled, but that decision is not confirmed. The situation continues to be monitored on a daily basis and we will provide further information as soon as we can.”
Face mask exemption SOCIAL Distancing Ambassadors will be in Tunbridge Wells town centre again this weekend giving out face masks for those who need them. While the law requires most people to wear a mask when entering a shop, for medical reasons some local residents are exempt. A face mask exempt badge has been produced by Tunbridge Wells together for those who are exempt and are available at a variety of places around the town.
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
NEWS IN BRIEF
Inquest into woman’s A21 death is opened A YOUNG woman who fell from a flyover on the A21 died from multiple injuries after falling in a gap in the central reservation, an inquest has revealed. Law graduate Azra Kemal fell from a bridge on the A21 near Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. Opening the inquest at County Hall in Maidstone last week, coroner’s officer Denis Fogel explained the 24-year-old was trying to seek help after her car suddenly caught fire. He said: “The occupants got out of the car onto the carriageway. Witnesses driving past saw two people on the carriageway approaching the central reservation, which is a bridge over the River Medway.” Azra was found below the bridge after falling 30ft. The hearing was adjourned for a full inquest to be held later in the year.
Police at a 10-year high KENT Police now has more police officers at any time in the last ten years, new figures have shown. At the end of March 2020, the force had 3,780 full-time officers according to data published by the Home Office. But Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott says with recruitment continuing throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Kent’s own internal figures show officer numbers reached 3,800 at the end of June. He said: “Kent Police has 618 more full-time officers than when I came into office in spring 2016. That is a fantastic achievement and I pay credit to the Chief Constable and his team for delivering that. “I have attended two Passing Out Parades in July and it is always a pleasure to witness the next generation of officers begin the next stage of their careers with Kent Police.”
Lamberhurst farm fire LAND was damaged after hay bales and grass caught fire in a farm in Lamberhurst. Firefighters spent more than 90 minutes fighting the flames after they were called to the incident in Spray Hill on Sunday afternoon [August 2]. Three fire engines and a bulk water carrier were dispatched but no injuries were reported.
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Local & Live to take place but it will not be business as usual TUNBRIDGE Wells’ annual, free music festivals will still go ahead despite Covid-19, but they will be single a livestream event only. Local & Live was set to return from August 28 to August 31, with the main stage in Calverley Grounds and numerous other bands performing at various venues around the town.
‘We will be hosting a virtual celebration of Local & Live in collaboration with Unfest The Forum But due to the Covid pandemic, the four-day event, which was first hosted in 2006 in The Pantiles, can no longer go ahead in its current form. Unfest, Tunbridge Wells’ fringe festival scheduled for May, had already been postponed due to the pandemic.
However, organisers say a combined Local & Live and Unfest festival will return as a single livestream event later this month. Bands will be playing at the town’s iconic music venue, The FESTIVAL Local & Live in Calverley Grounds in the summer of 2018 Forum, without an audience, but the COVID-19 putting a stop to live events across the performance will be streamed live on Facebook. UK this summer, we’ve had to get really creative It is expected a number of venues, such as with our plans for Local & Live Festival 2020. some of the pubs that usually host bands during “Whilst we can’t deliver the festival in its usual Local & Live, will also stream the event. four-day, multi-venue format, we are delighted There will also be pre-recorded live to announce that we will be hosting a virtual performances livestreamed throughout the day. celebration of Local & Live in collaboration with The event will also be scaled back to just two Unfest at The Forum, broadcast live directly into days, and will take part on August 29 to 30. your homes via our Facebook page.” Music acts set to perform include The Charlie The event will be livestreamed at facebook. Rivers Band, Noble Jacks, The Orange Circus, com/localandlive Steffan James, Dull Knife and Marie White. For more details, see this month’s SO Magazine. Organiser, Paul Dunton, told the Times: “With
Let’s light up the town this Christmas This year’s festive lights are being organised by Tunbridge Wells Together. The town centre organisation, which is paid for by firms that operate in the Business Improvement District, says the Council will continue to make a contribution towards the costs, and businesses in the town will be adding to the budget to create a bright festive welcome for shoppers.
Thoughts Ross Feeney from Tunbridge Wells Together said: “We would love to get feedback from local residents on what sort of theme for the lights they would like. “Shall we have contemporary or traditional? Or a mixture of both for different parts of the town?” He added: “It would be great to increase the lights this year to lift the town – and all our spirits after a challenging year – but perhaps people will want us to be more reserved to reflect how difficult the year has been. We’d love to hear people’s thoughts.” Why not let us know what you think: newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
LACKLUSTRE The festive lights in Tunbridge Wells are usually subdued
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LCF collapse has so far cost £13.5million of public money TAXPAYERS have so far paid out more than £13.5million in compensation following the collapse of London Capital & Finance [LCF]. The minibond firm, which was originally set up by Tunbridge Wells businessman, Simon Hume-Kendall, who went on to become LCF’s largest borrower, collapsed owing 11,500 people more than £236million. The firm went into administration after the Financial Conduct Authority [FCA] froze its bank accounts for mis-marketing minibonds. Thousands have lost money in the scandal. But the Financial Services Compensation Scheme [FSCS] has now paid £13.5m to 844 people hit by the collapse of the mini-bond firm, following the speeding up of its claims handling.
Evidence This represents a tiny number of investors as most of the mini-bonds sold by LCF were not regulated – and most people who lost money are expected to get nothing. But the FSCS said this week that it had increased the rate at which it is issuing decisions to LCF customers as new evidence has come to light. Around 100,000 emails have been discovered on LCF’s servers that could indicate more of the products had FCA [Financial Conduct Authority] regulation. This could entitle more people to compensation, which would again come out of the pockets of taxpayers. The FSCS said that assessing the additional information means it will not complete its review process by September as it had expected but it says it will provide ‘a more definite timescale’ as soon as it can. In a statement the FSCS said: “This is a priority for us and we’re working to pay compensation to LCF customers as quickly as possible. “We understand this has been a distressing experience for LCF customers and appreciate the patience they have shown.”
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Is High Street one-way scheme heading in the wrong direction? By Richard Williams A PLANNED one-way system for Tunbridge Wells High Street aimed at helping struggling restaurants and bars in the wake of social distancing is going the wrong way, traders claim. Plans proposed by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] and sent to County Hall were aimed at allowing traffic only to go down the High Street from the station end. The theory being this would allow bars and restaurants on the upside of the High Street to use that part of the road that would be closed off. The scheme is being paid for by Kent County Council [KCC] as part of an initial £1.6million grant handed to them by government to encourage ‘active travel’. Restaurants and bars – who have seen their indoor capacities reduced in the wake of Covid-19 – could make use of the pavement for tables and seating as pedestrians would be free to walk in the traffic-free northbound carriageway. Traffic on the southbound side of the road would be slowed to 20mph to ensure safety. The High Street proposals were outlined in the June 25 Approach to Recovery Plan presented to the Cabinet at TWBC and the plans were also discussed with a number of stakeholders, including Tunbridge Wells Together – the town centre management company – where the idea of taking advantage of the extra pavement space for hospitality was agreed. However, as revealed in the Times last week, the one-way system approved by Kent County Council [KCC] and set to begin in the next 12 weeks, has traffic entering the High street at the bottom and driving northbound up the hill – the opposite of the original proposal. KCC say the reasons for the switch in directions is that the borough Council’s plans were rejected because of issues with a no right turn sign at the bottom of the High Street. County Hall did, however, offer to remove the sign, but TWBC asked them to reverse the oneway system instead. A spokesperson for KCC said: “KCC had some concerns around turning at the southern end of the High Street on the initial plans as there is an existing right turn ban in place, and suggested that this be temporarily removed, which would have negated the need for drivers to U-turn on the mini roundabout, which KCC would not want to encourage. “Apparently TWBC were against this idea and suggested the one-way proposal be reversed.
NARROW Social distancing is difficult on one side of the High Street
“From a highway safety perspective KCC had no objection to this second proposal, but the scheme is being promoted and managed by TWBC.” But with the pavement much wider on southbound side of the road than on the northbound side, social distancing is not an issue.
Adverse In addition, steps separate the pavement and road on northbound side, and parking spaces, which will continue to be in use, will prevent pedestrians from using the road as an extension of the pavement, as cars travelling in the opposite direction will pull across the road to park. Owners of local businesses on the High Street say the move ‘makes no sense’ and will ‘make things even worse’. “There will be no benefit to us at all,” said Ivan Soprano who runs Soprano’s on the High Street. “In fact, it will make things even worse as people will be walking on the other side of the road and will ignore this side of the road where all the restaurants are.” He added: “There are no restaurants on the others side, none that are open, and the pavement is wide enough already for social distancing.” Matthew Dunford from the Coffee Grind, who campaigned to get the Council to fully pedestrianise the street to increase footfall, said: “It
makes no sense at all. “What is their aim? It certainly is not going to increase footfall in the area. “If they pedestrianised the whole street and had nearby parking then it would encourage more pedestrians in. This will do nothing – why haven’t they consulted with us?” But Cllr Alan McDermott, Leader of the Council defended the move. He said: “Whilst it is understandable that the southbound flow may seem more logical or natural bearing in mind current traffic movement that was actually part of the reason for choosing the reverse. “The High Street is often used as a form of ratrun to avoid the Vale Road/London Road route. “Consequently, there is an element of pass through traffic travelling faster than is appropriate. “The Covid-19 schemes are being promoted to enhance the environment for pedestrians so, the less traffic using the High Street the better. “A further reason was that, if vehicles could only exit southwards but wanted to head in a northerly direction, it would necessitate turning left at the bottom of the High Street and doing a U turn around the A26/A267 mini-roundabout, which is less than ideal. “On balance, therefore, the one-way north offered more benefits and less adverse impact.”
Road upgrades to begin in the autumn following MPs’ campaign
FOUNDER Simon-Hume Kendall and his wife Helen
A RAFT of planned upgrades for the A21 have been pushed forward thanks to a campaign by local MPs. The upgrades will create consistent and standardised conditions along the single carriageway section together with improved pedestrian and cycling facilities. The work was scheduled to begin in 2025 but Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark, along with Kent MPs Huw Merriman, Tom Tugendhat, Sally-Ann Hart and Laura Trott met with the Roads Minister, Baroness Vere of Norbiton in June to push for this to be brought forward. The work will now begin in the autumn and is expected to be completed by 2025. Mr Clark, who is also pushing for more dualling of the A21 said: “The Minister’s decisive intervention, following her meeting with A21 MPs, is a big step forward and is the latest step in our
campaign to make the A21 into a safe, fast modern trunk road throughout all its length from the M25 to Hastings.” Huw Merriman, MP for Bexhill and Battle added: “This is welcome news and I would like to thank the Roads Minister personally for intervening on this matter after hearing our case.
only requires further dualling, but more urgently it needs safety improvements all the way along.”
Residents “It’s great news that these essential road safety improvements for this key trunk road in our constituencies will now be brought forward for earlier completion. I very much hope that these works will be delivered in good time.” While Hastings and Rye MP Sally Ann Hart said: “This is good news for the residents of Hastings and Rye, and all those that use the A21 from Hastings to the M25. As many will know it not
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
County Hall’s expected loss in equity fund rises to £70million By Richard Williams KENT County Council [KCC] may have to write off more than £70million of its investment in the failed Woodford equity fund. The authority had around £260million in the fund before all holdings were frozen last year. The equity fund, run by stockpicker Neil Woodford, collapsed after KCC – one of the fund’s largest investors – asked for its money back. Link Fund Solutions, which took over the Woodford fund following its liquidity problems, is now selling off its assets to return money to investors. KCC has so far received around £150million with Link making payments in January and March following a firesale of stocks. Following the second round of payments, it was thought the county council was set to lose around £60million. But the £3.7billion fund has since plummeted in value following its liquidation, with reports at the weekend suggesting that the maximum the 300,000 investors, including KCC, will see returned is around £2.7billion. This could see KCC lose around 27 per cent of its initial investment –£70million. In addition to that, Link have not yet outlined how much it will be charging in fees for recouping the money. A third round of payment is expected this month, but KCC is unlikely to receive more than around 5 pence a share – around £13million of its original investment. The money belongs to its 135,000 pension fund members, including frontline staff. The Council maintains that the investment represents just 4 per cent of its total £6.8billion
investment fund and will have a minimal impact on members. A spokesperson for KCC confirmed the authority was expecting another tranche of payments in August, but added: “However, we have not been informed how much to expect, nor are we in a position to speculate.”
He continued: “The amount received will be disclosed at the next meeting of the Superannuation Fund Committee which is due to be held on September 4.” The news comes after the Council admit it is facing a black hole in its finances of more than £50million in the wake of Covid-19.
Furnace Lane pub grill accidently burns down a bowling club’s shed A FIRE in a pub garden’s outdoor grill and pizza oven burnt down a neighbouring bowling club’s shed. The Elephant’s Head pub on Furnace Road in Hill Hook, has been offering grilled food and oven baked pizzas at their Smokey’s Bar & Grill shack. Outdoor grills and pizza ovens have become a common accessory to many pubs in recent years, especially in rural areas. But smouldering embers from the grill are thought to have set fire to the shack in the early hours of the morning on Friday, July 24 and also took out the shed belonging to the neighbouring Bayham & Lamberhurst bowling club.
Extinguish
STOCKPICKER Neil Woodford
The pub called the fire service, who put out the blaze, but not before both the outdoor bar and grill and bowling club shed were burnt down. “We lost a couple of mowers, bowling equipment – probably worth several thousands of pounds,” said one of the bowling club members who did not wish to be named. He added the club, which has been open for 70 years were insured, but it would take some time to replace the equipment. “I’m just grateful nobody was injured, thankfully.” he said. A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: “Four fire engines and a bulk water carrier were in attendance, and crews arrived to an external structure, fence and shed alight. “Crews wearing breathing apparatus used hose reel jets and a main jet to extinguish the fire. “No casualties were reported, and the cause is believed to be accidental.” The landlady of the Elephant Head pub said she would prefer not to comment on the cause of the blaze until investigations have been completed.
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Infection numbers spike in Tonbridge By Richard Williams THE number of people testing positive for coronravirus in Tonbridge & Malling spiked last week, as more people in the borough are being tested. Official data from the Office for National Statistics which records the number of infections per 100,000 people, shot up to 9.2 – up from the previous week from just 0.8. The average in England is around 5 cases per week. The figures, for the seven days to July 26, are based on tests carried out in both the Government’s testing programme and in the wider community. Figures released on Monday show 362 people have now tested positive for coronavirus in
HEALTH CHIEF Andrew ScottClark
Tonbridge & Malling, which still has the lowest infection rates in Kent. The rate has since fallen to 5.4 per 100,000. Weekly rates have also increased in Tunbridge Wells, where 9.3 people per 100,000 had tested positive last week, up from 4.2 the week before. So far, 490 people in the borough have had
‘The public should be reassured that the levels of testing across Kent have also been ramped up and we would expect to see a rise in cases’ coronavirus. But Kent County Council’s Director of Public Health, Andrew Scott-Clark said the rise in cases is to be expected. “The public should be reassured that the levels of testing across Kent have also been ramped up and we would expect to see a rise in the number of cumulative confirmed cases,” he said. He added: “We have increased our testing capacity so that we are able to identify and confirm cases in our community and support the NHS Test and Trace programme. “We appeal to residents to follow the guidance should they be contacted by NHS trace. This will all help us control the spread of the virus.” Meanwhile, a Tunbridge Wells care home is being monitored following an outbreak of cases, Mr Scott-Clark has said. He added that the local health authority is ‘keeping an eye on it’.
GRAFFITI The carriages in Tonbridge depot
Vandals damage new train during stop over at Tonbridge NEW train carriages fresh from a test track in Germany and destined for Merseyside, were covered in graffiti when they stopped over at Tonbridge rail depot. The 52 Class 777 coaches made by Swiss company Stadler were destined to serve the northwest as part of a half a billion-pound investment by Merseyrail. The carriages stopped in Tonbridge on Saturday, July 25, following tests at Wildenrath in Germany. They were due to leave the depot bound for Liverpool on Monday, July 27, but vandals struck before the train departed and covered a number of teh carriages in graffiti. The clean-up operation is expected to cost thousands of pounds. British Transport Police said: “Officers were called to an area in Tonbridge at 12.21am on Saturday [July 25] following reports of three
youths graffitiing. “Officers quickly attended but the youths had left the area. Enquiries are ongoing."
Thousands A spokesman for Merseytravel added: “We are very disappointed that this has happened to one of our units that was being temporarily stored at the Tonbridge depot in Kent. “This type of irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated. “The graffiti is now being removed at our Kirkdale depot at a cost of thousands of pounds. The trains will then be ready for testing on the Merseyrail network.” He went on: "We also want to strongly remind graffiti artists that train depots are ‘live sites’ and can be extremely hazardous so please don’t put your lives at risk by trespassing.”
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l Your home will still be your home – you will never be asked to leave it. l You don’t have to make any monthly payments. l You can draw down the money in stages, when you need it, to keep the interest charged to a minimum. l Loans associated with the Equity Release Council have a ‘no negative equity’ guarantee, meaning you and your loved ones will never owe more than the value of your house.
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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Equity release schemes, such as lifetime mortgage or home reversion plans, may reduce the value of your estate and could affect your entitlement to benefits. To understand the features and risks ask for a personalised illustration. We may charge a fee for equity release advice; the precise amount depends upon circumstances and will be agreed at the initial meeting. The maximum fee will be £995 payable on completion. We will also be paid commission from the company that lends you money or buys your home.
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BUSINESS
Local News
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Al Fresco opticians are a novel spectacle By Richard Williams SPECSAVERS on Mount Pleasant Road has found a unique way to deal with social distancing restrictions that have limited the number of people they can have in-store. The opticians have been carrying out spectacle fittings and glasses collections outside.
Specialist The company has set up a gazebo on the pavement so that the only time customers need to enter is when they have to see an optician or hearing specialist to have a test.
Ian Hyland, store director, told the Times: “We have had to make a few changes to the way we operate since reopening for routine testing to make sure our customers and colleagues are as safe as possible. “In order to maintain social distancing, we can only have a limited number of people in the store at a time. “We have set up a gazebo outside the store where customers can collect glasses and we can carry out adjustments. “This means that customers only need to come into the store for eye and hearing tests, helping us to manage the number of people in the store at any one time.”
OUTDOOR SIGHT Spectacle fitting outside Specsavers
Traditional English Afternoon Tea At the picturesque Salomons Estate & Country House in Tunbridge Wells
Only £11.50 per person when booked as part of the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme
Available Midday – 4pm, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday during August To book simply send your preferred date, time and party size to reception@salomons-estate.com
CONFERENCE AND EVENTS VENUE www.salomons-estate.com
CLEAN AS A PIN Covid safety at Hollywood Bowl
Bowling hopes are dashed TUNBRIDGE Wells’ tenpin bowling alley in Knights Park had planned to reopen this week, but has had to reschedule following the government’s announcement that bowling alleys will have to wait at least two more weeks. Hollywood Bowl was forced to close on March 23 due to lockdown. After a campaign by the bowling company and the Tenpin Bowling Proprietors Association to protect the 8,000 jobs in the industry, the government finally gave the go-ahead for bowling alleys to reopen on August 1. However, last Friday [July 31], the government delayed plans for certain leisure businesses to reopen due to rising Covid numbers. However, the Knights Park centre is ready to welcome guests back on as soon as restrictions are lifted, with new safety measures in place. Stephen Burns, Chief Executive at Hollywood Bowl Group said: “The health and safety of our customers and team remains our priority. “Whether it’s to bowl, enjoy the amusement areas, have a bite to eat or something to drink, we want to assure
our customers that we are doing everything we can to create a safe and fun experience for families to return to. We look forward to welcoming them back through our doors.” He added that the reopening of the bowling centres will see the introduction of enhanced cleaning and social distancing measures, with customer guidance throughout the centres also in place.
Amusement Each centre will reduce the number of lanes in use, by only using alternate lanes, to provide extra space between each game taking place. Amusement machines, as well as bar and diner seating, will be appropriately spaced out and signage will be visible throughout the venue to remind customers to maintain a safe distance from others. There will be reduced customer capacity at centres to ensure that social distancing measures can be adhered to, and groups will be restricted to a maximum of six people with bowlers asked to arrive slightly ahead of their
booking time. Customers will also be given the option of wearing disposable gloves and should wear their own shoes whilst bowling. Upon entering the centre, visitors will be expected to use hand sanitiser, which will be readily available at cleaning stations. Enhanced cleaning will take place throughout the day, including the cleaning of bowling balls, lane seating and touch screens after every game. Hollywood Bowl is encouraging customers to use contactless payment where possible and will continue to accept cash. There will be safety shields at all tills to protect both team members and customers. Food and drink can be pre-ordered from the in-centre diners and bars, with cutlery and sauces provided to guests with their meal and an order and pay app available at 22 of its centres. In addition, all team members will undergo daily temperature checks and will be wearing PPE to ensure their own safety and that of customers. Customers will be able to make bookings for centres in England via the Hollywood Bowl website.
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
High Brooms gym among the first to safely reopen By Richard Williams A GYM in Tunbridge Wells has reopened following four months of closure due to lockdown, following intensive preparations to ensure they can minimise the risk of coronavirus infection.
Ventilation Energie Fitness in High Brooms was able to open on July 25, the first day of the government lifting restrictions, but not all fitness studios have yet been able to abide by the strict new rules aimed at curbing Covid-19. Owner Charlie Foulkes told the Times “It is sad to see that other gyms are still not ready to reopen, and some may never be able to for financial reasons. “We are keen to invite anyone whose usual gym may not be open yet to come and see what we’ve done. “If they decide to join before the middle of August, there will be no
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STERALISATION Fogging at Energie Fitness
joining fee, so no risk.” He said that among the measures put in place at Energie include a state-ofthe-art ventilation system to minimise any risk of airborne virus transmission, weekly sterilising fogging of the entire 8,000 square foot gym with an advanced chemical that eradicates 99 per cent of all viruses, along with regular wiping down of equipment with virucide. The gym is also using an app-based booking system to manage the number of people present to ensure social distancing. Mr Foulkes added: “While our full program of classes is not yet up and running, membership includes top quality Zoom classes and real-life classes will start coming back in the next few weeks. “NHS workers are also being offered a free month to thank them for what they have been through on behalf of the rest of us.”
OPEN FOR FITNESS Charlie Faulkes outside the gym on opening day [July 25].
BUSINESS
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Each month Thomson Snell & Passmore will be answering frequently asked questions from across the practice. If you have a legal question you would like featured in this monthly Q&A please submit it to info@ts-p.co.uk.
REDUNDANCY As an employer, what do I need to consider before making redundancies? Consider alternatives to redundancies. For example, reducing hours, stopping recruitment or reducing the number of agency or casual workers. If redundancies are still needed, you need to consider which roles are at risk of redundancy. As much as possible you should approach this on a ’no names’ basis. It is the role that is redundant, not the individual employee. Redundancies generally occur where either: 1. The business is closing down; 2. A workplace is closing down (e.g. a site closure); or 3. The employer needs fewer employees to conduct its business. Before you make any firm decisions about redundancies, you must inform those employees affected that they are at risk of redundancy. You should then carry out a consultation exercise with affected employees. How long should the consultation last? Where fewer than 20 redundancies are anticipated, there is no set timeframe. Where a handful of redundancies are planned, the consultation process will typically last one to three weeks. What do I pay to a redundant employee? First, check their notice period in the contract of employment. You can decide whether to have them work out their notice period or terminate right away and make a payment in lieu of notice. A redundant employee may be demotivated during their notice period, so making a payment in lieu is more common. Secondly, anyone with more than two years service is entitled to a statutory redundancy payment. This is calculated based on their weekly wage, number of year’s service and age. You can calculate the payment at https://www.gov.uk/calculate-your-redundancypay. As an employee, how can I access legal advice if I am being made redundant? If you are a member of a trade union, they should be able to help you. Otherwise, the Acas website (www.acas.org.uk) has some useful information. Or contact a local employment solicitor to get a quote for advice. Also, your employer should allow you to be accompanied during consultation meetings by a colleague or trade union representative.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Goudhurst farm makes the shortlist for ‘pick your own’ A FARM in a Tunbridge Wells village has been named as a finalist in the annual Farm Retail Awards. Lower Ladysden Farm in Goudhurst is competing with three other farms ‘Pick Your Own of the Year’ category in the awards that celebrate the retail farm industry. The Covid crisis has seen bumper growth in the Pick Your Own [PYO] sector as people rediscover picking their own produce as an alternative to visiting supermarkets. Produce at PYIs often include potatoes and seasonal fruit such as
strawberries and raspberries. Chairman Rob Copley said: “At a time when most local attractions remained closed, PYO’s were able to operate safely thanks to their open air nature and the implementation of one-way systems. “It’s brilliant to see so many new families discovering these local farms, for a traditionally British day out and enjoying locally grown food. We wish every finalist the very best of luck. The calibre of entries was so high, to make the shortlist is an accolade in itself!” Lower Ladysden Farm is competing against Cammas Hall Fruit Farm in Hertfordshire, Felderland Farm in Deal, Kent, and Craigies Farm in Edinburgh in the PYO shortlist. The winner will be announced at the Farm Retail Awards in March 2021.
International summer trading workshop A WORKSHOP to support importers and exporters has been arranged by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce to support businesses in the sector in the wake of Covid-19. The virtual course on Tuesday August 11, 9:30am – 12:00pm, will address the key procedures and instruments in trade, making the best use of finance facilities for trade combined with how to implement the most appropriate international delivery/purchase terms using INCOTERMS 2020. Costs are £56.25 for members and £67.50 non-members. Details at kentinvictachamber.us7.list-manage. com
My job is redundant but I would like to do a different job with my employer Your employer must review whether there is any suitable alternative role that you could carry out. Whether a job is suitable depends upon how similar the work is to your current role, your skills and experience and the terms of the job, such as pay and hours. You risk losing your entitlement to a statutory redundancy payment if you unreasonably turn down an offer of suitable alternative employment. I have been given notice of redundancy, is that the end of the matter? Your employer should give you the opportunity to appeal internally against the decision to make you redundant. There is usually a short time frame (e.g. five days) in which to submit your appeal. Make sure you set out why you think the decision was unfair. If you have any questions regarding the above, please contact Ben Stepney on 01892 510000 or ben.stepney@ts-p.co.uk or visit our website www.ts-p.co.uk
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NEWS
Community
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Senior care service outstanding rating is dedicated to an ‘incredible woman’
CARE TEAM Celebrating their Outstanding rating
By Richard Williams A SERVICE that provides at-home care and companionship for older people in Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Edenbridge has dedicated its recent Outstanding rating to their late owner, who passed away earlier this year. Home Instead Senior Care was given the rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) just a few months after owner Symone Salwan unexpectedly died in February. The team at the care home say they continued to work hard to continue to deliver the same standard of service as recognised by the CQC, in memory of Symone’s name, and also because they hold the same ethos and values as she did.
Inspectors interviewed staff, clients and client families, with one quoted in the report as saying, ‘They are a great company and a great help to me.’ Another said simply, ‘They are better than any other company, by a million miles’. In one instance they heard how a client was admitted to hospital and was anxious that her
Anxious Sara Grist, general manager said, “I am absolutely delighted with the rating, Symone would have been so proud. “She was so well thought of, not only here at Home Instead but in the wider community, where she did so much to champion people living with dementia. “We continue to honour her memory and everything that Symone set out to do. Her ethos, passion and devotion to caring shone through and we are continuing with all her good work.” The CQC highlighted in their summary that they found a truly holistic approach and that Home Instead had developed innovative and effective ways to enhance their clients’ wellbeing and quality of life.
SYMONE SALWAN
cats were cared for, so the team stepped up and looked after them. They took videos of her cats each day and took them to their client in hospital to reassure her that all was well before she was able to return home. Also highlighted was how Symone and her team had established outstanding links with local health and social care services, as well as other local organisations to provide support for their clients, working alongside Kent County Council, Alzheimer’s Society, Westerham Town Council, Age UK and other care providers. Symone championed a series of Dementia Friendly Workshops for both the general public and business owners to teach skills in developing successful relationships with those living with dementia. As well as helping local businesses improve their facilities to enable a more positive experience for those visiting their shops or receiving services. She not only wanted to ensure her clients were well cared for in their own homes but also in the local communities where they lived. Symone’s involvement in the local Dementia Friendly Communities saw her attend many award ceremonies as a finalist and a winner for the numerous projects she either instigated or was a part of. Home Instead Senior Care provides tailored support, typically comprising companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care, medication reminders, shopping and errands for older people.
Crowborough duo awarded for their mask endeavours TWO volunteers in Crowborough have become the first recipients of the Wealden Hero Awards after sewing masks for the local community. Spencer Miller, Maisie Jones and Alison Cousins were awarded the Wealden Hero Award last week. Maisie began sewing face masks for the local community at the beginning of spring. Soon after, she was joined by Alison and together they began making fabric face masks for carers, key workers and volunteers in Crowborough. They became known as the “Sewing Crow-Bees”, now a team of eighteen ladies. The masks are being offered for free, but donations are welcome. The team have raised over £8,000 through voluntary contributions. Their masks are available at local shops in Crowborough, and customers can choose from six different designs. The Sewing Crow-Bees are currently fundraising
for the Friends of Crowborough Hospital. You can donate through a Virgin Money fundraiser page. Spencer has received an
overwhelming amount of nominations for this tremendous effort to organise support across the community. He has been the driving
SEWING CROW-BEES MP Nus Ghani [centre], Maisie Jones [left] and Alison Cousins
force behind the “Supporting Crowborough” movement, the coronavirus community support group in Crowborough. Meeting the duo last week, Nus Ghani, MP for Wealden, said: “Spencer, Maisie and Alison have made a huge contribution to fellow Crowborough residents. From the many nominations that they have received, I know how valued they are by everyone in the community. “I am delighted to present them with the Wealden Hero Award and to celebrate their efforts. Many thanks for all your work throughout the pandemic and beyond.” The Wealden Hero Awards are supported by Uckfield FM, Kent and Sussex Courier, Sussex Express and Hailsham FM. Nominations remain open, so if you know of any individual or organisation who deserves recognition please nominate them here: www. nusghani.org.uk/wealden-heroes
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
‘Loyal customer’ campaigns to save the local farm shop A CUSTOMER of a farm shop that has been forced to close has launched a Facebook group and petition to save the store. Anne Waddingham from Tonbridge says that the Hadlow College Farm Shop has played a vital role in the community, especially in the wake of coronavirus. The farm shop was closed on Friday [July 31] by the administrators of Hadlow College, which owned the farm shop, following the college’s collapse into administration last year and its subsequent takeover by North Kent College. “For years, the farm shop in Ashes Lane (and formerly on Tonbridge Road) has played a vital role in the community, especially recently,” Ms Waddingham told the Times. “Its staff have gone above and beyond to ensure that basics are supplied to those in need, delivering to local homes and keeping the shop well stocked with commodities that were often in short supply elsewhere (flour, eggs, potatoes etc.).
Commerical “Its home delivery service has been a lifeline, especially for the vulnerable, and has won it many new fans who have discovered the benefits of fresh, local produce over supermarket fare. “At a time when we are being encouraged to ‘shop local’, it has been a welcoming venue within a few minutes’ walk, cycle or drive. “As an important outlet for local, high-quality produce, including from the College and Princess Christian’s Farm, the shop provided a unique opportunity for the students to gain work experience in the commercial sector.” In a statement, a spokesman for Hadlow College and West Kent College said: “A decision has been taken that, with effect from July 31, the Farm Shop and related wholesale business will permanently close. “All customers and suppliers have been notified separately.” Ms Waddingham said the decision was ‘shortsighted’. “Like many others, I believe that it is shortsighted of the administrators BDO to remove this popular and valuable asset, so I have launched a Facebook group and a petition to show administrators BDO and North Kent College the strength of support for keeping this farm shop open,” she added. The Save Hadlow College Farm Shop can be found on Facebook and the petition can be found online at change.org/ SaveHadlowCollegeFarmShop
CLOSED: Hadlow College Farm Show is now shut
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Thousands of Scottish pupils have their grades lowered THE Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has downgraded 124,564 pupils’ results despite no exams being sat – 93.1 per cent of all the moderated grades. Exam pass rates rose at every level and would have been the highest on record without the SQA downgrading some submitted results, Education Secretary John Swinney said. Pupils across Scotland received their exam results yesterday morning [Tuesday]. More than a quarter (26.2 per cent) of grades were moderated by the SQA, a total of 133,762, while 377,308 entries were accepted unchanged. The coronavirus lockdown caused exams to be scrapped for the first time, with teachers submitting estimated grades based on previous results, predicted attainment and evidence of past work. After SQA moderation, the National 5 pass rate was 81.1 per cent, the Higher pass rate was 78.9 per cent and the Advanced Higher pass rate was 84.9 per cent. The pass rates have risen from 78.2 per cent, 74.8 per cent and 79.4 per cent respectively. The SQA revealed 128,508 results – 96.1 per cent of those adjusted – rose or fell by one grade. A total of 45,454 entries (8.9 per cent) were moderated down from grades A-C to grade D or to no award. Mr Swinney said the SQA will ensure “sufficient resources are in place” for the free appeals process, allowing teachers and pupils to challenge specific results. Grades were adjusted “where a centre’s estimates were outside the constraint range for that course”, the SQA chief examining officer’s report said. SQA Chief Examining Officer
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
NEWS IN BRIEF
Pilot dies after his light aircraft crashed A pilot has died after his ‘light plane’ crashed in East Sussex. The aircraft came down on open ground north of Heathfield at 11.01am yesterday [Tuesday]. Firefighters from multiple stations were called out just minutes later and extinguished a fire. Upon arrival they found a small aircraft that had crashed into a field, the fire service said. Police confirmed that the pilot was found dead. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has said it is looking into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Marriage proposal goes up in smoke
EXAMS Deputy First Minister of Scotland and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills John Swinney meets pupils in Glasgow yesterday following the release of Scottish exam results that saw thousands downgraded Fiona Robertson said it is not possible to determine why the overall estimated grades are higher than previous years, adding: “There may be several reasons why estimates were above historic attainment, which has been relatively stable over time. “Some teachers and lecturers may have been optimistic, given the circumstances of this year, or may have believed, correctly or incorrectly, that this cohort of candidates may have achieved better grades due to a range of factors.” Mr Swinney said: “In the face of an incredibly tough few months for pupils and teachers, we can today celebrate the achievements of all learners. “Young people have received awards that recognise their hard work and allow them to move onto the next stage in their lives.”
Met Office issue warning ahead of 36C heatwave THE Met Office has issued a Level 2 health warning as Britain is expected to bask in temperatures reaching nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Thursday and Friday are set to see temperatures reach as high as 36C [97 degrees Fahrenheit] in some parts of the country. This triggers a Level 2 Health Warning - meaning authorities are on high alert to reduce harm for a heatwave. Met Office forecaster Bonnie Diamond said the hot weather will be part of a ‘warm spell across the UK’ but the highest temperatures are expected to be ‘focused in the south-east of England’. Ms Diamond said there will be a ‘mixed’ spell of weather at the start of the week. But she added: “At the minute, and with high confidence, we are expecting 34C to 36C by Friday and Saturday.” These high temperatures are the result of southerly winds moving from Europe and high pressure patterns that are set to kick in from around Thursday.
Mr Swinney added he is “immensely grateful” to teachers and the SQA for their work to ensure pupils received results after the cancellation of exams.
Disadvantaged “While comparisons with previous years need to be considered carefully, given the disruption to learning this year this is a good set of results for our learners,” he said. “This year’s results also show there has been a narrowing of the attainment gap at grades A-C between the most and least disadvantaged young people, which is now narrower this year for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher than last year, or indeed the average for the last four years.” On the moderation process, which
has received criticism for considering schools and colleges’ standards, Mr Swinney said: “All exam systems rely on an essential process known as moderation to uphold standards. “This ensures an A grade is the same in every part of the country, making the system fair for everyone, and across all years. “As the national exams body, only the SQA can maintain the consistency and the integrity of our qualifications. “This year, by necessity, the moderation model is different and has been subject to additional scrutiny.” He added: “Teachers and lecturers applied their judgments against national standards and today’s data shows that three out of every four grade estimates were not adjusted by the SQA.”
PC killer’s sentences were ‘unduly lenient’ “The Law Officers have 28 days from sentencing THE Attorney General has been asked to consider to consider the case.” whether jail terms handed to the three teenagers John Howell, who was PC Harper’s MP, said on who killed PC Andrew Harper are unduly lenient. Friday that he would ask for a review of Henry Long, 19, the driver of the car that the manslaughter sentences. dragged Mr Harper to his death, was The MP for Henley said: “The jailed for 16 years for sentences handed down by the manslaughter at the Old Bailey judge are very severe. The on Friday. question is does the The two other occupants of punishment fit the crime?” the car, 18-year-olds Jessie PC Andrew Harper’s Cole and Albert Bowers, widow Lissie wrote to the were each jailed for 13 prime minister to ask for a years. retrial after Long, Bowers A spokesman for the and Cole were acquitted of Attorney General’s Office murder. said: “The Attorney General’s In an open letter on thoughts are with the family Facebook, she called for ‘the and friends of PC Andrew Harper PC Andrew Harper retrial that [PC Harper] at this difficult time. unquestionably deserves’. “I can confirm that we have received Attorney General Suella Braverman will a request for the cases of Henry Long, Albert decide by August 28 if the Court of Appeal should Bowers and Jessie Cole to be considered under look at the sentences again. the unduly lenient sentence scheme.
FIREFIGHTERS have issued a warning about candles after a man accidentally burnt down his flat while trying to set the scene for a romantic marriage proposal. The man left hundreds of tea lights burning in a balloon-filled room in his flat as he collected his girlfriend ahead of the special moment, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said. But when the couple returned, they found the flat, on Abbeydale Road, Sheffield, was on fire and three fire engines were on their way. A fire service spokesman said no-one was injured in the blaze – and the man’s girlfriend accepted his unconventional marriage proposal.
Body found in hunt for missing kayaker A body believed to be that of a missing kayaker has been found on a beach in Sussex. The person is yet to be named, but it is believed to be a man who went missing on Sunday morning near Hove Lagoon after falling from his kayak, the council said. Brighton and Hove council leader Phelim Mac Cafferty expressed his ‘deep sadness’ after the body of a man was found yesterday [Tuesday] morning on Hove beach. “I know the rescue services did everything they could to find the person on Sunday after scanning the sea for hours,” he said .“I am deeply saddened to find this morning that the incident has ended in tragic circumstances.”
Missing cat is found after 12 years away A CAT that went missing from a Greater Manchester family while they were on holiday on the shores of Loch Lomond has been located 12 years later. Tortoiseshell-and-white Georgie spent October half-term with her owners at the Rowardennen campsite in 2008 before vanishing as they were due to return home. When the coronavirus pandemic hit and lockdown restrictions were imposed in the area, a concerned campsite staff member came across the cat and finally discovered its Rochdale origin after the chip was scanned by an animal charity. Amy Davies, the cat’s owner, said: “We were heartbroken when Georgie didn’t come back on our last day at Loch Lomond. “It was such a lovely surprise to hear that she was not only well but had seemingly been having a great time meeting campers.”
1,100 jobs at risk as Pizza Express eyes around 67 closures PIZZA Express has said it could close around 67 of its UK restaurants and cut up to 1,100 jobs, as part of a major restructuring plan to shore up its finances. The chain said it plans to launch a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) “in the near future”, in a move which could lead to the closure of 15% of its 449 UK restaurants. However, it stressed that the final outcome of the restructuring has “yet to be decided”. Pizza Express, which is majority-owned by Chinese firm Hony Capital, said it has also hired advisers from Lazard to lead a sale process for the business. The company closed all of its UK restaurants on March 23 after the Governmentmandated lockdown, before starting a phased reopening of sites last month. It said the coronavirus pandemic has been a “huge setback” for the restaurant sector but it believes the turnaround plan “will put the business on a stronger financial footing in the new socially distanced environment”.
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Customer demand has been “encouraging” since sites reopened, with 166 outlets now open across the UK, it said.
Focused Group chief finance officer Andy Pellington said: “While we have had to make some very difficult decisions, none of which has been taken lightly, we are confident in the actions being taken to reduce the level of debt, create a more focused business and improve the operational performance, all of which puts us in a much stronger position.” UK & Ireland managing director Zoe Bowley said: “Our business has a long history of success, but the UK-wide lockdown has hit the hospitality industry particularly hard. “While the restructuring is a positive step forward, at the same time we have had to make some really tough decisions.” She added: “It is with a heavy heart that we expect to close a proportion of our restaurants.”
BUSINESS
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BP cuts its dividend for the Tui extends first time since Deepwater cancellation Horizon following huge loss of Portugal OIL giant BP has slashed its dividend payout for the first time since the Deepwater Horizon disaster, after the company’s profits were squeezed by a drop in the price of oil. Investors will now receive 5.25 US cents (4p) per share, compared with 10.25 cents (7.8p) earlier. It comes after the oil giant swung to a 6.7 billion US dollar (£5.1 billion) underlying replacement cost loss in the second quarter of the year. It is a massive hit compared with the same time last year, when it made a 2.8 billion dollar (£2.1 billion) underlying replacement cost profit, but is still around 100 million dollars (£76 million) more than analysts had expected.
Impairment The average price of oil was around 57% lower at 29.50 US dollars for a barrel of Brent crude in the quarter compared with the same three months in 2019. The falling price was driven by a mix of geopolitics as Saudi Arabia and Russia started a price war at the start of the year, and the coronavirus pandemic, which pushed down demand for oil. It was in part this decrease that two months ago
sparked an announcement that BP would write off around 13 billion to 17.5 billion dollars (£9.9 billion to £13.4 billion) after tax. Chief executive Bernard Looney said: “These headline results have been driven by another very challenging quarter, but also by the deliberate steps we have taken as we continue to reimagine energy and reinvent BP. “In particular, our reset of long-term price assumptions and the related impairment and exploration write-off charges had a major impact. “Beneath these, however, our performance remained resilient, with good cash flow and – most importantly – safe and reliable operations.” Three months ago, amid the doom and gloom of Covid-19, BP surprised many market-watchers by not cutting its payout to shareholders, as its rival Shell had for the first time since the Second World War. Separately from the results, Mr Looney provided more detail to investors on the company’s new green plans. By the end of decade he pledged that BP will be investing around five billion dollars (£3.8 billion) in low-carbon projects, a tenfold increase from today. Over the same period it expects to slash daily oil and gas production by 40% from the levels it was at last year.
Tui has extended the suspension of its holidays to Portugal for UK customers until at least the end of next week. The UK’s largest tour operator said it will “continue to review its holiday programme in line with UK Government advice”. The Government has advised against non-essential travel to mainland Portugal since March 17 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Non-essential Tui has already announced that its holidays to mainland Spain for UK tourists are cancelled until August 17, while its programmes in Spain’s Balearic Islands and Canary Islands are on hold until August 10. This is due to the Government’s decision to reintroduce the 14-day self-isolation requirement for people arriving from Spain and advise against non-essential travel to the country. Tui said customers due to travel to mainland Spain and Portugal between August 17-31 or the Spanish islands between August 10-16 can amend their booking and receive an incentive to rebook, or cancel and receive a full refund. The firm announced last week it plans to close nearly a third of its high street stores in the UK and the Republic of Ireland to cut costs and respond to changes in customer behaviour.
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Education
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
EDUCATION Times New online summer school launches offering 20,000 free lessons for many pupils to catch-up due to Covid crisis Thousands of pupils across Kent have signed up to a free online school which will be teaching core subjects throughout the summer holidays. Eileen Leahy finds out more about it After months of not being taught in school due to the coronavirus lockdown many pupils – and their parents – have felt that they have missed a large part of the academic curriculum and will therefore suffer in September when they return. And despite the government’s pledge to boost pupils’ learning courtesy of a ‘£1billion catch up’ package, many fear that will still not be enough. To bridge the gap a new online summer school called the Kent Invicta Academy was launched last week in order to offer thousands of live lessons for both primary and secondary school students. Within hours of it launching most had been taken. The virtual summer school, which is a community interest company, has been created by two people from Kent: Anna Firth, from academy from the Oak National Academy Sevenoaks and Stephen James, a teacher at another brilliant project, but that’s broadcast Sandgate Primary School in Folkestone. lessons. Ours are live lessons from teachers that Mrs Firth who is also national voluntary are going to be interacting with the children and director of the Conservative Policy Forum did a answering their questions.” round of TV and radio interviews last week Oak National have provided lessons in most when she and Mr James officially launched the Kent Invicta Academy on Monday. subject areas for pupils of all ages including She said the team had been science, maths and English overwhelmed by the reaction during the lockdown period from parents and children. but the aim behind the “We’re completely Kent Invicta’s teaching is oversubscribed and we’re to keep going throughout incredibly excited to open August until children our virtual doors, welcome hopefully return to our children and see the school in September. teaching begin. Kent Invicta Academy’s lessons “We want to make sure this which went live last is a meaningful experience, week, will involve up that’s what to 20,000 pupils distinguishes the STEPHEN JAMES AND ANNA FIRTH from key stage 1 Invicta summer
to key stage 4 in classes of up to 100 at a time. Around 80 teachers have signed up to teach the lessons and there is a core of 18 who will start lessons each day. There are also a number of supply teachers available in case of sickness.
“We think it’s not just about educating children’s minds, we also want to educate their hearts as well and we want to inspire them.” Mrs Firth said: “We’ve been very vigorous in our vetting of teachers because we want to deliver something that’s very high quality for children of Kent.” Mrs Firth and Mr James secured the £15,000 needed to fund the project through a gofundme
campaign to set up the online lessons. Similar academies have been set up in London, Surrey and Oxfordshire to help children bridge the attainment gap. Alongside the core subject teaching at Kent Invicta Academy, each Wednesday will consist of a ‘showcase’ lesson where a special guest will talk to children signed up about their career. Last week Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold talked to those pupils who have been lucky to gain a place at the online school about her path to becoming an athlete. The reason for breaking up the teaching of the curriculum with more practical information sessions such as this is simple says Mrs Firth: “We think it’s not just about educating children’s minds, we also want to educate their hearts as well and we want to inspire them.” Classes will run Monday to Friday and more information can be found at https://www.invictaacademy.com/teacher-sign-up
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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Local News
NEWS
Lockdown has promoted digital learning among adults Learning new skills The COVID-19 outbreak has been a wake-up call for technophobes everywhere. A recent survey by techUK in conjunction with Ipsos Mori and Cisco revealed that 60% of UK adults are now interested in developing their digital skills after the lockdown. Many have been forced to work from home for the first time and have had no choice but to get to grips with platforms such as Zoom and Skype. This trend looks set to continue, with 82% of those surveyed saying that they expect digital skills to increase in importance over the next year. Boosting confidence Although many were reluctant to learn new skills at first, there are clear benefits. For older people who felt alienated from the modern world, learning digital skills has been a huge confidence boost. Many who felt left behind by the job market will feel empowered to get back out there once the lockdown is over. In fact, 30% of those surveyed said they now felt more confident applying for a job. Digital Skills Toolkit Course The Department of Education and Cisco have responded to this new-found thirst for skills by developing a digital skills toolkit, with introductory, intermediate and advanced courses available. More details can be found at https://theskillstoolkit.campaign.gov.uk/. What does this mean for businesses? The upskilling of employees can only be good news for businesses. A highly skilled workforce will make you more appealing to clients and will save you the headaches that come with an IT skills gap amongst employees. For more advice on saving your business money on IT, especially through the use of a hosted desktop, get in touch today simon.luck@hostmyoffice.co.uk
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16
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Letters
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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 newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG
The bridge is the victim here I have read the article ‘Supermarket lorry latest victim of low rail bridge’ and would like to question your and Mr Forrester’s take on the incident reported. Far from the lorry being the victim, as your headline states, it is surely the bridge that is the victim? The bridge has been there over 100 years, so it isn’t a new hazard for drivers; the height is clearly marked, as Mr Forrester attests, so does the blame lie with the bridge? I am sure you must agree with me when I state I don’t believe the intention of the bridge is to ‘find victims’. Could it be the result of incompetent drivers? Patently from your article this Tesco driver is not alone but it is interesting that he didn’t stop at the first impact, but carried through to remove his roof completely. Possibly a speed issue? The loser in each of these incidents is the Spa Valley Railway who have to close their services until the integrity of the bridge has been affirmed by a qualified engineer. Until this is agreed it cannot be opened for rail traffic to ensure the safety of the passengers. The inevitable consequence of this is upset
Friends of Grove Park should be taken seriously I write to express my concerns regarding the lamp post replacements in Grove Park. Firstly, I find it incomprehensible that one lamp post could have been knocked down by a Sodexo worker, let alone a second one. I believe that the lamp post that has already been replaced, is not a good enough substitute. Sodexo should be forced to find one that is more in keeping with the original. This should also be the case when they source a replacement for the second one. This is not taxpayer’s money, so the cost should not be an issue. FOG work very hard to maintain this park to a very high standard, and I think that their views and concerns should be taken more seriously. J Giles Friends of The Grove, Tunbridge Wells
Fairer tickets for commuters Tonbridge Line Commuters is greatly encouraged that our two local MPs, Tom Tugendhat and Greg Clark, have written to the Department of Transport urging the introduction of a more flexible ticketing system for those commuters who regularly travel to London but not necessarily for the full five days each week. For many people, working from home for a few days is becoming the norm and it is only right that they should be catered for fairly.
BRIDGE OF SIGHS: The Eridge Road rail bridge after the latest incident [picture Kevin Connelly]
customers and loss of income for the heritage railway which is a charity and depends upon visitors for its income. Then, of course, there is the cost of the bridge repairs. I must advise I find the slant you have put on the incident disingenuous. Sandy Boyce-Sharpe Tunbridge Wells Our preferred option would be carnet tickets (which have been used for a long time in many cities, e.g. Paris); a similar system could be introduced in the UK (with perhaps separately priced tickets for peak and off-peak journeys). Another option would be Pay-as-you-go ticketing (via smart card or contactless bank card) with journeys within a set period becoming progressively less expensive the more journeys are made (until regular season ticket reductions are reached). John Reynolds Vice-Chairman, Tonbridge Line Commuters,
gotcha motion from last year. It was neither clever nor helpful at the time and age has not improved the gambit. This is why I titled the piece 'We need to talk honestly about the Assembly Hall'. Refusing to engage with reality does not help us. Cabinet doesn't seem to have a way forward, so they are going to have to listen to those outside their circle. We have an asset, which has been neglected and needs the investment of time and energy. Yes, we have an immediate plan covering COVID and yes we have the working group looking out into the distant future. And yes, what we really need is an over-arching strategy for the arts nested within a proper strategy for the borough. But right now, we need to be asking ourselves how we reopen the AHT and make it work in the short to medium term. And there doesn't seem to be anyone at TWBC doing so. We need to have an honest conversation (and a conversation not a debate - a debate implies either/or) about what we want and what the art of the possible is. James Rands Liberal Democrat Councillor for Culverden
Talk about the tail wagging the dog
Pupils should get on their bikes
How are tradesmen meant to cycle?
In July 22 edition of the Times of Tunbridge Wells St John's LibDem councillor Peter Lidstone states that 'people are far happier walking and cycling'. It would be greatly appreciated if he could pass this message on to the pupils of Skinners' School whose parents park on the restricted areas of the local side roads (yellow lines notwithstanding) for up to an hour before school leaving time as their offspring are apparently too exhausted or idle to walk to the car park in John Street which is only 50 yards away. Victor Bethell Tunbridge Wells
Hadlow road and Shipbourne roads are grid-locked at peak times. I lived through the chaos when the high street was upgraded and overrun by months. It was carnage for us living in the north and travelling south. The Shipbourne road cycle bollards are outrageously dangerous. Tradesmen like myself cannot use cycles and Covid-19 should not be used to advantage a small number of the population who have the privilege of being able to cycle in their day to day activities. C Jorden Tonbridge
Your recent article ‘Tories say it’s “time for change” as they try to topple Leader’ [July 29] was most enlightening and further exposed the in-fighting and arrogance of this Tory cabal. Personally, I was dumb founded at the original choice of Alan McDermott as Party leader, having witnessed his performances in the chamber, but it was in keeping with their poor choices and decision making in recent history. Indeed, I am not sure they have anyone qualified to lead, unless taking us all to another expensive and ill conceived ‘white elephant’, such as Calverley Square, is on the agenda! So while they squabble, and we, understandably, miss a chance to give our verdict through a local vote, until next year, it is interesting to ponder that, whilst this Borough has a majority of Conservative representatives, who, by and large, foisted the £10million vanity project on us, Tunbridge Wells has a significant majority of non-Tories that represent us. Talk about the tail wagging the dog! Martyin Dawes Tunbridge Wells
CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)
Cabinet is refusing to engage with reality After my piece on the Assembly Hall Theatre [AHT] in July 22 edition I have had a fair amount of correspondence from the public. Almost everyone seems to be in agreement and surprisingly (to me at least) this includes people who supported the Calverley Square development. I think we all understand we want to retain a big(ish) theatre in town and the AHT is what we have. Last year's argument is done with and any new suggestion will take years so let's get the AHT on its feet now. Unfortunately, we have had the expected sniping campaign from Cllr Bailey. Apparently, he doesn't understand our current position, but he knows our position has changed. And he insists on citing a silly attempt at a
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words
Reopening Tunbridge Wells
i
Important recovery and reopening information for tourism businesses £multi-million project offers support for tourism businesses An exciting opportunity for tourism businesses in the Tunbridge Wells borough is on offer in a partnership between the Council and Visit Kent. The Experience Development Programme will help both traditional and non-traditional tourism businesses across the region adapt and develop new tourism products.
diversify their product offer. Collaboration with businesses inside and outside the tourism sector will be encouraged, helping participants to reach new audiences and develop a year-round product. Visit Kent are currently looking to work with 125 eligible organisations, each of whom will receive a range of support to build and launch their new products, from specialist one-to-one consultancy and business planning, to new photography, marketing campaigns and proactive testing and sales with the travel trade.
This new programme will assist organisations as they recover from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and it will support them to adjust and
Visit Kent Chief Executive Deirdre Wells OBE said: ‘In light of the current COVID-19 crisis, the tourism, leisure and hospitality industry is having to drastically re-think how to rebuild demand and revenue streams. To survive and future-proof business, it’s crucial for organisations to rethink, adapt and develop new ideas for consumers
Closing date for Government grants scheme
Sign up to Visit England’s We’re Good to Go
The Government has announced that applications to the Small Business Grants Fund and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grants Fund must be made by 28 August 2020. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has now paid over £26m to nearly 2,000 eligible businesses, but it is possible that there are still a few businesses who haven’t applied. Information about the eligibility criteria and how to make an application can be found on the Council’s website: tunbridgewells.gov.uk. Please email businesscovid19@ tunbridgewells.gov.uk with any questions about the process or to check your eligibility. Please ensure that you have applied in advance of the deadline.
visittunbridgewells.com TWellsTourism
VisitTunbridgeWells
tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Visit England has launched a UK-wide industry standard and quality mark. ‘We’re Good To Go’ means businesses can show that they’re following government and public health guidance, have carried out a COVID-19 risk assessment and have the required processes in place. Sign up to the free scheme visitbritain.org/were-good-go-industrystandard-all-sectors-tourism-industry
who will be travelling differently, looking to reconnect with close family and friends to enjoy shared experiences in a safe and secure environment. ‘We’re very excited to announce the launch of our brand-new Experience Development Programme. If you have a great idea for a new experience, an idea for collaborating with another business or an existing offer which could be adapted for a new audience, we’d love to hear from you. This programme could help you turn your idea into reality, and take it to market through a package of dedicated support.’
Sign up your business
The project will be funded through the European Interreg Experience project. To find out more and for details of how your tourism business can apply visit visitkentbusiness.co.uk/ about-us/european-funding/experience
Sign up to Eat Out to Help Out
You can use Eat Out to Help Out to offer a discount to diners and encourage them to eat at your establishment. Registration for the scheme closes on 31 August. Full details are available through gov.uk
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NEWS
Weekly Comment
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Cllr Matthew Bailey
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Matt Bailey is a borough councillor for Paddock Wood West and the portfolio holder for sustainability on the cabinet. Matt is also a Chartered Tax Advisor and Chartered Management Accountant, and runs a software and accountancy business in Tunbridge Wells.
Cabinet member for Sustainability Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
The Council is doing its part to support the local economy now it’s your turn It’s good to see the sun out and people back in the town centre. The majority of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants are open, and consumers seem more confident about venturing out. It’s been an incredibly tough few months for local businesses. But the government stepped in to help during the depths of the Covid crisis, and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council also played its part. Business rate grants were given to small businesses, with up to £25,000 paid to those in the retail, hospitality and leisure sector. In total the Council distributed £27.5million of government funds to over 2,000 local businesses, with recipients grateful for the speed with which applications were processed and paid. Many businesses in our borough accessed the furlough scheme to retain staff during lockdown. And business rate relief has been extended, with the
majority of small enterprises receiving a payment holiday until April of next year. Over the weekend I spoke to some businesses to see how these measures have helped. The owner of Esquires Coffee on Mount Pleasant Road said the business rate grant was a lifeline. It helped pay his bills while the cafe was closed, and said
EAT OUT TO HELP OUT: Hundreds of restaurants, bars and cafes are offering 50 per cent off
he couldn’t fault the Council for the speed with which the money was paid. And he was able to use the furlough scheme to retain all his staff in expectation of happier times ahead. Esquires is now open again and the staff are back. The furlough scheme can be used to replace earnings lost due to working reduced hours, so the owner can bring staff back flexibly as demand recovers. And he’s even looking at new business opportunities in the town. This week saw the start of another round of government assistance. The ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme gives eat-in customers an automatic 50 per cent discount on food and (non-alcoholic) drink up to a limit of £10 per person. Participating businesses can quickly reclaim the discounted amounts from the government. The scheme runs on all Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in August and
Tom Tugendhat Conservative MP for Tonbridge & Malling
‘This week saw the start of another round of government assistance. The ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme gives eat-in customers an automatic 50 per cent discount on food and nonalcoholic drinks up to a limit of £10 per person’
many local cafes, restaurants and pubs have signed up. There are too many to mention here, but a full list can be found at www.tax.service.gov.uk/eat-out-tohelp-out/find-a-restaurant/ A staff member at Basil, one of the local cafes participating in the programme, said he likes the scheme. He feels it will give consumers who would not otherwise come into the town an additional incentive to come out and enjoy the summer weather. And he feels the discount will be appreciated by those who have concerns about their own income in these difficult times. So the government and the Council are doing their part to support the local economy. Now it’s over to residents to help local businesses by shopping and buying local. And half price food and drink in our amazing local cafes and restaurants is surely an offer too tempting to miss.
Tom Tugendhat, MBE, left the British Army in July 2013 after a career in which he served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and as the military assistant to the Chief of the Defence Staff. As a Territorial Army officer, he worked on everything from those ops to establishing the Armed Forces Muslim Association, and also worked for the Foreign Office. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2015, and was elected Chair of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in July 2017.
Reducing the speed limit to 20mph brings many benefits Being a Conservative means putting community first. Recognising the ties that bind us, often unsaid or not formalised, as real and enduring. That’s why so many of us have focused on delivering what is best for our community. Here, in Tonbridge, we have seen many changes over the years, that community spirit has never wavered, and that’s what makes our town one of the best places to live in Kent. Our county councillors, Richard Long and Michael Payne, are doing their best to keep it that way. Whistler Road, The Ridgeway, Yardley Park Road, Medway Wharf Road and many other roads have beautiful homes for so many but speeding traffic, failing to respect the 30 mph speed limit, causes unnecessary noise and danger. That’s why I am delighted that Tonbridge has been chosen as one of the locations for a town wide 20 mph trial on residential
roads over the next 6 months. The Government has invested in Active Travel to make it safer for both road users and residents, encouraging us to walk and cycle more. Kent County Council have rightly identified speeding as one of the biggest causes of accidents to pedestrians and cyclists.
Residential A few weeks ago, I conducted a Walking, Cycling and Safer Roads Survey online to ask what you think the Government’s funding would be best spent on. Introducing a 20mph speed limit on residential roads was supported by over 90 percent of respondents from Tonbridge. It is clear that this is a popular policy. There are wider benefits to 20mph speed limits too. It reduces the amount of time we accelerate and brake, reducing emissions. It also introduces consistency across the town
where Kent County Council have long established 20mph zones in Meadow Lawn, Barden Road, The Slade and other areas too. Thanks to the hard work of Richard Long and Michael Payne at Kent County Council, Tonbridge is one of two locations where the trial will take place. The trial will last for six months and there will be a consultation to decide if the scheme is extended further. It’s great to have the County Council listen to our views and make the changes we need. Speeding doesn’t just happen here in Tonbridge – many neighbouring communities are affected too – but having the opportunity to trial it here means we are front of the queue for any permanent changes. The key question will be enforcing the new limit. While we can look to Kent Police – who are getting more officers thanks to the leadership of our brilliant Police
and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott, or campaign for more cameras or speed bumps, the best thing we can do is change our own behaviour. That’s how we’ll encourage others to do the same, and get into the habit of realising that 20 is plenty for Tonbridge. While the scheme is town wide it covers residential roads only, so roads without a mass of homes are not included in the trial for the moment. It also excludes arterial routes where they head out of town. The aim of the Government and County Council is to encourage people to feel safe where they are walking and cycling and a 20mph speed limit will certainly do that. My thanks go to Richard Long and Michael Payne for delivering what we asked for. They have showed that being a Conservative is about delivering for the whole community. Tonbridge couldn’t have two better representatives at County Hall -- they always put our community first.
SIGN OF THE TIMES: Michael Payne (left) and Richard Long have campaigned for 20mph limits
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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Property Focus
Property Focus Converting commercial to residential spaces: be aware of possible pitfalls Following the government’s relaxation of development rules on commercial properties for private use, what should potential new buyers be wary of?
Relaxation “Allowing blanket permissions for residential developments in town centres is a terrible idea and puts at risk the potential for our town centre to survive in the longer term.” The government’s new plans now state that industrial buildings can also be turned into new homes as well. “Flats that have been created from converted office buildings are not always of the same high standard as traditional new housing due to a lack of planning control,” says a spokesperson for the Home Owners Alliance. (HOA) Following the government’s relaxation of these development rules there followed what the HOA spokesperson describes as a ‘damning’ independent report sent to Ministers.
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THE PROS OF OFFICE TO RESIDENTIAL CONVERSIONS For buyers and renters, the main attraction is the price. PDR flats are often the cheapest homes available in any given area. Buyers are also attracted to the new furnishings and fittings.
NEWS
LAST month, the government announced planning reforms which now allow property owners to convert a far broader range of commercial buildings into homes - without requiring planning approval for a change of use. Up until recently it used to be just offices that could be converted under permitted development rights (PDR) but the new proposals now state that retail and industrial buildings can now be turned into new homes as well. Last week, Tunbridge Wells Together Director Ross Feeney told the Times of his concerns surrounding this type of development explaining the impact that turning former retail spaces into accommodation can pose a real threat to the survival of any town or city centre.
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It focused on the issues surrounding converting offices to residential using permitted development rights and said just a fifth of the resulting homes met national space standards. “Some flats were just four metres by four metres,” continues the HOA spokesperson. “Ten of the units surveyed appeared to have no window at all. “Seven out of ten of the units didn’t have adequate light or ventilation.” It concluded the scheme has created worse homes – “affecting the health, wellbeing and quality of life of future occupiers“. Julia Park, an architect and Head of Housing Research at Levitt Bernstein was asked by HOA to explain what this means and tell buyers what to watch for if considering such a property purchase. Here’s what she said: WHAT ARE PDR FLATS? Since 2013, a new ‘Class O Permitted Development Right’(PDR), has allowed developers to convert office buildings to residential use without acquiring planning permission. Developers only need to gain ‘Prior Approval’ before starting work. This leaves planners with very little control over the design and quality of the conversion. While the work must still comply with Building Regulations, developers have free rein over important issues such as internal or external space, daylight, external noise, air quality and location. And in the areas that are covered by the building regs, conversions are often subject to lower requirements than newly built homes. CONVERSION Offices can now be turned into flats more easily
THE CONS OF OFFICE TO RESIDENTIAL CONVERSIONS 1. Size: As the government’s own minimum space standard can’t be imposed under PDR, flats in former office buildings are often considerably smaller than the 37 square metres (m2) minimum set by the standard. Studio flats are therefore very common. While most are around 20-25m2, a 13m2 flat (the area of a typical double bedroom) is not uncommon. Some are even smaller. 2. Limited mortgage options. Many lenders are unlikely to lend on homes less than 30m2 and some now make 37m2 their threshold. 3. Leaseholder restrictions. As is the case when buying a new build, buyers need to look carefully at the details including the length and terms of the lease, service charges, metering arrangements, council tax – and ensure their conveyancing solicitor can confirm that Building Regulations have been formally signed off. 4. Location: Offices are often on busy roads or in light industrial parks – check out the traffic noise and intensity on different days of the week and at different times of day, including rush hour. Offices were often built around the car; it was assumed that everyone would just drive to work and back. Where are the nearest pubs, cafes and parks, is there a sense of community and does it feel safe? 5. The condition of the building: External changes are not permitted under PDR. Many office buildings date back to the 1960s when external cladding panels started to become the norm. If the building you’re looking at has panels get written assurance that they are safe. Check out the windows too; they may be in poor condition – possibly only single glazed or with limited opening lights. Offices often rely on air conditioning; if the air-con units are still there, it’s bad news for the planet, but if they’ve been removed, summer overheating is a serious risk, particularly in south or west facing flats. 6. Repair bills. If the building looks run down, you could be faced with a bill for repairs within a few years – will you see that money back when you move on? On the other hand, if it’s left to deteriorate further, it might it be difficult to sell at all. 7. Value for money: Don’t trust photographs or visualisations; make sure you visit. Compare the room sizes and proportions with spaces you know well. Establish the total floor area of the flat you’re interested in and work out the cost per m2 on the asking price. If it’s very small, calculate the cost per m2 of larger flats for sale in the area; the difference may surprise you. 8. Liveability: When does ‘compact’ become ‘claustrophobic’? Lockdown has been hard for all of us, but much harder for people in small flats or studios; particularly those without a balcony. Home-working is here to stay; will the ex-office space you’re looking at, work for you? Will your stuff fit, is there enough storage space for the main spaces to stay clutter-free, and, if it’s a studio, can you cope with your bed and your kitchen being in the same space? Check out the internal soundproofing too – it’s often not as good as it should be. Finally, the law recognises that very small homes can be dangerous to our health and wellbeing. It’s much less obvious than the risk from fire, for example, but it can be just as devastating. Councils have powers to inspect a home that may be unsafe, and in the most extreme cases, they have a duty to take enforcement action. Take a look at the ‘Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation Act) 2018’ if you have concerns.
A D V E R TIS IN G FE ATU R E
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TRYING TO CHANGE THE FACE OF CONSTRUCTION ONE BRICK AT A TIME Finding a builder horror story is never a hard job. We live in the age of DIY television programme overload and tempting wall to wall social media inspiration. Never has the motivation to build or renovate your dream been so tempting. We would go as far as saying that home improvements have become our national pastime. Sometimes criticism of the building trade is well and truly justified but in most cases where relationships breakdown it simply comes down to communication and expectations. Here at A.Mann Building Contractors we pride ourselves in those two critical components. We aim to identify and understand our client’s expectations and work together to reach a realistic scope of works and budget. The success of each project depends on the team and the communication. We believe strongly that our client’s benefit from our weekly update sheets. This is something that we believe to be quite unique. Every Friday we provide each client with a report that outlines what they are to expect in the coming week and we also use this document to list any items that we require on site. The feedback from our client’s is that they love these documents and find them extremely valuable. Of course, there are sometimes hiccups but our ethos is that there is no such thing as a problem but rather a challenge that has a solution.
We are inviting any building related queries that you may have to be directed via our contact page on our website: amann buildingcontractors.co.uk. or on 0330 128 1021.We will endeavour to answer any industry related queries that you might have.
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Best BuysFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
This week’s best property buys… Since estate agents were told they could start selling properties again after the government eased lockdown measures the housing market has experienced a bounce – both in terms of buyers and sellers. Here are our top picks of what’s on the market this week
Bedford Terrace Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE
£850,000 CONTACT
Savills 01892 507 000 Bedford Terrace is located in the heart of the historic pedestrian lanes of the ‘Village’ area, of Tunbridge Wells and is a short distance from The Pantiles. The High Street shops and cafés are on the doorstep and the mainline station is about 0.3 of a mile. Instantly recognisable as one of Tunbridge Wells’ most handsome Georgian terraces, this private pedestrian walk is a much admired feature of the original town. Each property in the row has its own character and configuration and No.7 presents beautifully - offering classic period features and a complimentary modern style.
n Currently configured as a two bedroom home; the house offers elegance and comfort in equal measure n There is a front-to- back kitchen/dining room on the ground floor; the bespoke Krieder kitchen enjoys the outlook over the charming courtyard garden n The dining room also accommodates a very useful home office area and pretty bay window seat n On the first floor, there is the delightful sitting room with original fireplace n This period property also benefits from a newly-appointed bathroom n The two bedrooms both have original fireplaces and are located on the second floor n There are also some delightful roofscapes within this property boasting views to the south and north of the town n High ceilings on all floors accommodate tall sash windows which give generous light to every part of the house n A notable asset, is the wonderful and highly private courtyard garden to retreat to or entertaining, further enhanced with established planting
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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Times 27
Oakfield Court Road Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE
ÂŁ1,300,000 CONTACT
Maddisons Residential 01892 514 100 This is a very desirable detached family home which has been beautifully extended and modernised by the current owners. They have totally refurbished and remodelled the interior, completing a large double storey extension to the ground floor, adding a fabulous music studio to the lower ground floor and improving the top floor accommodation by creating two bedrooms and a bathroom: indeed a total of 750 square feet were created from the works. It is also conveniently located near to the station and just a short walk from Claremont Primary School and Calverley Grounds making it an ideal spot for families.
n Beautifully presented town centre family home n Extended and renovated to a high standard n Welcoming entrance hall, with a reception room on either side, one of which the current owners are using as a family room and the other as a more formal sitting room. n Fabulous open plan kitchen/dining/family room which forms part of the extension and incorporates a large roof lantern, ample room for a further seated area, large sliding doors to the rear garden n Unique lower ground floor, suitable for a wide range of purposes n Four bedrooms, with option to easily creative five, and 3 bathrooms n The master suite has its own bathroom and the current owners created a large dressing room from one of the bedrooms, n There is a well proportioned family bathroom, with roll top bath and separate walk-in shower, all exquisitely presented n Generous gardens to the front and additional landscaped rear garden n Off road parking on driveway for several vehicles n Quiet and friendly no-through road n Great outside storage area n Within 0.5 mile of the mainline train station and Claremont Primary School
Discretion is the Better Part of Valour The property market has changed astronomically
At SJD we work to source the right developers for
in the past few decades, bringing in a new era
your site - all of our sales are made confidentially
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Unlike conventional methods, we offer discreet
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marketing where details of your site are not openly marketed. Private sales generate a sense of exclusivity, boosting the likelihood of a quick and hassle-free transaction.
If you have a development opportunity that you would like to sell off-market, please contact us for a free appraisal.
Contact Stephen Donnelly on
07739 514350 or 0845 456 8969 Web: sjd-projects.com email: steve@sjd-projects.com
The Ikon, available at Kingsdown Meadow, is a contemporary styled home with long slender windows, french doors in the lounge area and skylights to the angled ceiling in the kitchen flooding the home with natural light. The two-bedroom property has a lounge that is large enough for two double sofas and that is separated from the kitchen and dining area with double oak doors giving residents flexible living areas. The spacious kitchen is naturally divided from the dining area with a central kitchen island that gives added worktop space and an added social dimension whilst food is being prepared. Two bedrooms are at the far side of the central kitchen area, with the master featuring an ensuite shower room, and both having fitted wardrobes. This style of home appeals to buyers due to the superb layout of the home and the opportunity to choose stylish interior packages.
To view The Ikon call free on 0800 644 4499
FOUR STUNNING SHOW HOMES OPEN TO VIEW at Kingsdown Meadow Residential Park
Oakgrove Waverton fully furnished, 2 Bedroom Home (40ft x 20ft) £265,000
Prestige Sofia fully furnished, 2 Bedroom Home (40ft x 20ft) £275,000
Prestige Buckland fully furnished, 2 Bedroom Home (40ft x 20ft) £250,000
Omar Ikon fully furnished, 2 Bedroom Home (40ft x 20ft) £275,000
Find us at Kingsdown Meadow Residential Park, Romney Street, Knatts Valley, Sevenoaks, TN15 6XW
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Life&Times
ARTS & CULTURE LIFE & STYLE FOOD & DRINK MOTORING SPORT and MORE...
IN PRINT AND ONLINE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK timeslocalnews.co.uk
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LIFE THROUGH A LOCKDOWN LENS
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ALDO SERVES UP A MOVIE NIGHT
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Hever fever
Get out to watch knights joust this weekend Page 32
THIS SUMMER’S NEW MUST READS
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Out & About
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out&about 7 days of activities
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
MEDIEVAL FUN Jousting at Hever
By Eileen Leahy
KILLING JOKE The dark origin story of Batman’s Joker is on at the Honnington Farm drive in
tickets vary in price and there will be food and drink on offer too. For more details visit www. thedriveincinemaclub.com
Following the ongoing easing of the Coronavirus lockdown many of our favourite beauty spots, galleries, museums and places of interest are now open. Here’s where to go this week... NOW that we are getting the opportunity to access more of our favourite places and things to do the cultural landscape is opening up a little bit more. There’s a lot more drive-ins and open air cinemas cropping up all over the local area. So make sure you check out a few of them this month...
THIS FILM IS NO JOKE The Drive in Cinema Club at Honnington Farm in Southborough has been screening a series of films since August 3. Every night this week until Sunday you can catch lots of celluloid classics but on August 6 there’s a chance to see Joaquin Phoenix’s spellbinding performance in Joker. All
A MODERN CLASSIC Another drive in that’s definitely worth going along to is the one at Mabledon Farm. Not only is there a great selection of movies to catch, celebrity chef Aldo Zilli will also be serving up a smorgasbord of delicious culinary treats while film fans watch a movie classic from their car. On August 6 you can see the much acclaimed 1917 from 8pm. See flixdrivein.co.uk OUT TO JOUST The Knights of Royal England will once again be entertaining visitors for their popular annual jousting tournaments at Hever Castle. Starting
this weekend they will be happening every Saturday and Sunday until the August bank holiday (28-31). Go along and watch the valiant knight’s exciting displays of fights and epic falls while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of Anne Boleyn’s former home. Bring a blanket to watch the tournament from the two acre field or watch the joust in style from the medieval spectator stands. Then choose which knights you support and cheer them to glory. For more information or to book 01732 865 224 or email info@hevercastle.co.uk to make your booking. Bookings must be made by 3pm the Friday before. FINAL CALL This is the last chance to see the Royal Ballet’s online performance of Sleeping Beauty via their
PUBLIC NOTICE
LICENSING ACT 2003 An application has been made by: PERSIAN GRILLS LTD 31 Mount Pleasant, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1PN.
On the date of: 22nd July Summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: The Selling of Alcohol. Opening hours: Monday _ Wednesday and Sunday 9:00 am _ 23:00 Thursday_ Saturday 9:00 am _ 1am. Alcohol Sales: Thursday – Saturday 11.00pm – 1.00am Any person wishing to view details of an application may contact the Licensing Partnership on 01732 227004 Any person wishing to make representation about the application should make them in writing on or before the 18th August Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is £5000.
n Join this week and pay no Joining Fee n We are “Covid-19 Secure” n From just £21.99 a month n We offer a huge gym and a friendly welcome n Classes are included: face-toface and by Zoom n Free trial session available
Contact via tunbridge.wells@energiefitness.com 01892 804007 or www.energiefitness.com/tunbridge-wells
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Out & About
TRANQUILITY Gardens at Pashley Manor
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CLASSIC Romeo and Juliet is at Hever’s outdoor cinema
distancing measures. Kicking off on Friday August 7 is Anne of the Thousand Days followed by Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet on August 8 and Hot Fuzz on August 9. The summer cinema is £15 per ticket with a £10 parking charge per car. Films start at 8pm. ART IS EVERYWHERE The Fairfax Gallery is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year so what better time to pay this artistic gem on The Pantiles a visit? Running until September 8 you can see a wealth of work from over the past two decades. One of the featured artists is Mary Jane Ansell who specialises in incredibly life like portraiture. See www.fairfaxgallery.com streaming service on You Tube. Entitled From Our House to Your House the world famous ballet company have been regularly streaming content but this world famous ballet’s final bow is on August 6. There is however still the chance to catch its performance of The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party by the Kate Prince Company. Simply go to their You Tube channel to find out more.
FLOWER POWER Pashley Manor in Ticehurst is usually buzzing with plenty of exhibitions around this time of year. In addition to its famous rose and tulip festivals it also hosts a wonderful sculpture event every summer too. And although things are very different this year, for obvious reasons, the good news is you can still visit its gorgeous grounds –
all 11 acres of them – most days of the week. Just visit www.pashleymanorgardens.com MACBETH AT THE MOVIES Also launching at Hever this weekend is its outdoor cinema. Running on August 7-9 and 14-16 this is your chance to enjoy a magical movie under the stars, whilst complying to social
PARK LIFE As always there’s always plenty to discover on our doorstep here in Tunbridge Wells courtesy of our many beautiful park spaces including Dunorlan, Grosvenor & Hilbert and also Calverley Grounds Adventure park which is just great for little ones. Each one has the relevant social distancing in operation – so there’s plenty to enjoy without having to pay or book.
The most exciting craft event in the South East
Special Reader Offer
£10
using Discount Code
CRAFT2020*
10 – 13 September
Hever Castle & Gardens TN8 7NG
Purchase direct from the very best makers in the UK
Putting the WOW back into Craft Fairs
Advanced Booking is required as tickets are being limited due to Covid-19 precautions. See website for full details and admission costs. *Offer codes valid for adults and seniors on dates of craft fair only.
9.30am – 5.30pm Daily (Garden open until 6pm daily)
Admission to garden also gives admission to the craft fair. Free entry for Hever Castle Annual Members but advanced booking required.
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arts
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Artistic snapshots that reflect life as we currently know it The Royal Tunbridge Wells Arts Society has expanded its artistic criteria to include photography. Its first photo show takes place this weekend, and also runs the following one too. Eileen Leahy finds out more how lockdown has been captured through a lens by the society’s members…
RUSH HOUR AT PADDINGTON PC Dyer
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
unbridge Wells is a town well known for its buoyant culture – and art represents a big tranche of it. We are lucky enough to have numerous galleries and artists here, but the biggest and oldest collective is the Royal Tunbridge Wells Arts Society (RTWAS). Established in 1934, it is thought to be one of the longest running societies, not only in Tunbridge Wells but also the county. It started nearly 90 years ago with just 18 members and has, over the years, featured the work of many talented artists including Winston Churchill who loved to paint and had his own art studio at his private residence in Chartwell. The Society’s HQ was founded on The Pantiles where it remains to this day and it
now boasts over 170 members and is run by a committee with Ros Plumley as its current chairperson. And now, for the first time in its 80 odd year history, the RTWAS is staging its first photographic exhibition due to ‘popular demand’ from its younger members. “RTWAS is pleased to announce that as a result of popular demand and interest from our increasingly youthful membership, we have decided to include photography among the visual arts that the Society exists to encourage and explore,” explains Ros. The Society will exhibit its first exclusively photographic exhibition called ‘Lockdown Life’ at its premises at Sussex House, 61 Lower Walk, The Pantiles over two weekends – this one, (August 8 & 9) and
HAIRCUT WITH A HEDGETRIMMER Georgie Bret-Day
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
next one (August 15 & 16). The exhibition will be open from 10.30am to 4.30pm and is free to attend. “Photography is now well established as a fine art discipline as well as a documentary tool,” continues Ros. “It is accepted at the Royal Academy Summer Show so we are welcoming new artists from this field. The subject has raised an enthusiastic response with entries covering many aspects of life in recent weeks from empty streets in Tunbridge Wells and other parts of the country,
Art & Culture
were produced by members which were then uploaded onto the RTWAS Facebook page.” With lockdown measures eased a little for the moment, the Society is currently holding regular weekend pop-up exhibitions while it still can during the summer. The final one will be a full autumn exhibition starting on Saturday August 26 and covid precautions will be in place. The Society’s website is currently down but if you’d like further information you can contact Ros directly by emailing chairmanrtwas@gmail.com
through picturesque backgrounds for ‘exercise’ to problems experienced in getting supplies.” During the lockdown the RTWAS was closed for meetings but continued with regular online activities in order to engage and inspire its members. “These included fortnightly ‘Lockdown Challenges’ where members painted or sketched to a theme - for example ‘An experiment in Surrealism’ or ‘Bugs and Beetles’ - which gave people a chance to try something new,” adds Ros. “Over 100 studies and sketches
MULTI EXPOSURE - CHAPEL PLACE Carmel Yearwood
The WINE ROOMS Are Excited To Announce Our Partnership With KIKO SUSHI! We are offering our Sushi platter to you for just £10 as you take advantage of the Eat out to Help Out offer at The Wine Rooms. Every Wednesday from 4pm until 9pm you can enjoy your pre-ordered sushi platter to go with a glass of something chilled, we shall also have our full food menu available. Simply book your table at The Wine Rooms, in the notes box say you are coming for the sushi £10 offer and we will have one made up for you! The Sushi Platters are designed for 1 person for dinner, so just let us know how many you want! Thank you for your support and we hope to see you at The Wine Rooms.
01892 522022 www.thewineroomstw.com 40 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TN
THREE MEN IN A BOAT ON BEWL WATER Linda Moores
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Wednesday August 5 | 2020
A taste of Italy: why Aldo Zilli is serving up the perfect side order to your night at the movies this week Starting today (August 5) celebrity chef Aldo Zilli will be cooking up a storm every day at the Flix Drive In pop-up cinema at Mabledon Farm in Southborough. On until August 9 it’s a great opportunity to experience some of Aldo’s signature Italian food and a magical movie. The Times finds out more... ‘Movie nights will be the chance for our guests to see what we have on offer and combine it for a night to remember’
WHAT’S ON THE MENU AT CASA ZILLI? Aldo says: “Guests can come and experience Casa Zilli food from our new summer menu, watch some fabulous films before saying “arrivederci” after a truly memorable time.” Traditional Risotto Balls (Arancini) Filled with Ragu, Peas & Mozzarella Fried Zucchini Flower, Filled with Ricotta & smoked Mozzarella (v) Rigatoni Mushroom, Cream & Truffle Pasta with Parmesan Cheese (v) FOR LITTLE ONES: Pasta al Pomodoro Sicilian cannoli filled with sweet Ricotta cheese and Italian chocolate Flix Drive In and Casa Zilli will be serving up movies and molto bene food at Mabledon Farm, Southborough, from today August 5 to 9 with tickets starting at £29 per car.
Tell us how this whole event and association with Flix Drive In came about? I know the team behind Flix Drive In really well, so it has been a match made in heaven and I’m really excited about August’s event in Kent. We have been working together for 20 years now, so with their event contacts and expertise and my passion for excellent food and great service, it was a natural fit and has come together really quickly and efficiently.
combine it for a night, or a day, to really remember. So tell us how what we can expect from a Flix Drive In? We have a great space for 120 cars for each show, a huge, top-quality screen, great refreshments, and some real Hollywood blockbusters for all the family to enjoy. We have a socially distanced, allocated parking space for each car, scannable tickets at the entrance for increased safety, a large, high-quality LED screen, suitable for all types of weather and Ofcom-licenced sound direct to your own in-car system for maximum fun. Then, of course, there will be some of my award-wining food to really add to the movie glamour feeling for a truly special day out for your family and friends!
How did this event at Mabledon Farm come about? We wanted to put on something extra-special for the people of Kent after these trying past few months. I have been building my new Casa Zilli concept during lockdown and am really looking forward to welcoming people and showing off my latest ideas for the full Zilli/Flix experience. Mabledon Farm is a great space to host this kind of event. How has lockdown been for you and please tell us a little more about the Casa Zilli concept? My wife Nikki and I have been working hard for months to bring this new venture and passion to fruition. Casa Zilli is an exciting mix of unique Italian food from our new summer food menu and our newly designed, herb-inspired candle collection for the home. During lockdown we have been offering restaurant quality food from our ‘neighbourhood kitchen’. Local people could either pick-up food from it or have it delivered. I’m really excited to say we can now roll this out to a wider audience courtesy of the Flix events, also happening in Redhill and Bournemouth. These movie days and nights will be the perfect chance for our guests to see what we have on offer and
UNIQUE Creamy Pasta Crispy Mushroom pasta and [above] zucchini
WHAT’S ON WHEN AT FLIX DRIVE IN: The early showings are family friendly and include favourites such as Lion King, Minions, Little Mermaid, Wall-E and Matilda and will start at 11am. Matinees, start at 3.30pm and are designed for more upbeat fun with classic singalongs such as Mamma Mia, Rocketman, Grease and A Star Is Born. The evening extravaganzas start at 8pm for the grown-ups with a choice of celluloid classics including Fight Club, 1917, Pulp Fiction, Superbad, and Joker.
www.flixdrivein.co.uk
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Food & Drink
Raise a Toast to Organic Wines Toasting the summer – and the earth – our expert James Viner recommends four ambrosial, fully-certified organic bottles from England, Italy and Spain THE organic food and drink marketplace booms. Wine was the big winner in the Soil Association’s UK Organic Market 2020 report, with the total organic market growing 4.5% in 2019 to reach a record £2.45 billion. Made with organically growing grapes using a short list of acceptable additives, wine that is certified organic is produced from vines treated with a minimum of agrochemicals and is associated with a viticultural practice that encompasses such myriad schemes as water conservation, biodiversity and energy use. 1) TIP-TOP, JUICY, UNOAKED, BARGAIN ORGANIC SPANISH RED Rafala Organic Tinto Tempranillo 2018, Spain (£7, Co-op, 14%) Made by family business Bodegas Fontana in the arid plains of Castilla-La Mancha, the lower, southern part of the plateau that makes up central Spain. It’s full of vibrant red berry fruits with a finely detailed spray of light spice. Get the barbie on and serve lightly chilled in the warm weather. What a snip too since organic grapes are often around 20% more costly to grow compared to conventionally-managed vineyards. Try it. 2) FRUITY, ORGANIC, ITALIAN PARTY POP FROM 30 KM NORTH-EAST OF VENICE Aldi Organic Prosecco Extra Dry, Italy (£7.99, Aldi, 11.5%) You don’t have to dismiss mainstream wine when you turn to organics. For the second year in a row, Aldi’s organic tipples brought back the goods, after being awarded four
medals at the renowned Drinks Business ‘Organic Masters.’ Aldi’s Drinks Expert, Sam Caporn MW, comments: “Aldi offers a fantastic range of organic wines that are high on quality and at an affordable price tag. These results really do highlight the excellence across all grape varieties!” Ideal for those who don’t like their wines bone dry, this dangerously drinkable, no-brainer organic Prosecco offers gentle pear, peach and crisp apple characters. It handles a good chill and is sure to go down well at your next al fresco gathering. Aperol spritz anyone? It’s also just the ticket for tea-party pastries and sponge cakes (think Panettone). Best drunk asap and served
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between 6 and 8 °C – i.e. a little cooler than champagne. Salute! 3) STYLISH, SUNNY, PALE ORGANIC ITALIAN ROSATO Santa Tresa Organic Rosé 2019, Sicily, Italy (£10.99 Mix 6, Majestic, 13%) Such a good buy, this one, from a sunny 50-hectare estate in Vittoria where the focus is on creating authentic Sicilian wines as sustainably as possible. It’s a 50/50 blend of local grapes nero d’avola and frappato that ticks pretty much every box, with ample red cherry, strawberry, stone fruit and watermelon flavours on offer, plus a breezy line of acidity. The finish is a feature: long, seamless and teeming with an energy that demands another glass. Very nicely done – and priced. Try if fatigued with Provençal rosé. It’s a beauty.
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4) AROMATIC WHITE ENGLISH ORGANIC TREAT FROM A TRAILBLAZING EARTH-CONSCIOUS PRODUCER ON THE E. SUSSEX/KENT BORDER Davenport Horsmonden Dry White 2018, E. Sussex, England (£14.99-£16.95, GrapeBritannia/
Life&Times
UK producers with thirdparty organic certification The perils and pitfalls of organics in the UK! How different to much of Spain and France. Led by such driving forces as rich subsidies from the Ministry of Agriculture and organicloving influential celebrity winemakers such as Miguel Torres (Penedés) and Alvaro Palacios (Priorato), with around 100,000 ha Spain still has the world’s largest surface area of organic vines. Look out especially for Bodegas Jiménez-Landi. East Sussex: Oxney Organic Estate & Sedlescombe Greater London: Forty Hall Hampshire: Laverstoke Park Oxfordshire: Sunnyhill Vineyard & Bridewell Surrey: Albury Vineyard Wales: Ancre Hill Estates, Monmouthshire Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine Davenport/Vintage Roots/The Brighton Wine Co. 11.5%) With a relatively damp and cool climate where attendant disease pressure is great, England isn’t the easiest place to practice commercially viable organic viticulture but even here you can find quality ‘green’ wines. Working for nearly two decades on the East Sussex/Kent border to leave the planet in a better shape than he found it, Will Davenport – who won the Amorim Sustainability Prize at the 2018 Drinks Business Green Awards – crafts first-class still and sparkling organic wines with layers of flavour and lots of appeal. This complex, tried-and-tested blend of five reliable Germanic grape crosses comes from the brilliant 2018 vintage: Davenport’s biggest-ever harvest. An elegant wine worthy of further time in bottle. Buy it while you can. Organic certification from the Soil Association.
E AT O U T TO HELP OUT
Enjoy Summer Nights Out in Royal Tunbridge Wells #TunbridgeWells #EatLocal #EnjoyLocal #SupportLocal Funded by Tunbridge Wells Together on behalf of hospitality businesses in Royal Tunbridge Wells
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Books
The bookcase… Life in lockdown has given many the chance to fall in love with reading again. Here’s our pick of this week’s top tomes to enjoy…
Utopia Avenue by David Mitchell
Published in hardback by Sceptre, priced £20 (ebook ¬£10.99). Available now
7/10
A meandering grind of a music opus, it’s the 1960s and Utopia Avenue – aka ethereal Jasper, folksy Elf, lippy Dean and laidback Griff – are trying to make it big as a band, scrapping over song credits and struggling with their individual demons as they go. Each bandmate has a certain spark to them, but this latest book from David Mitchell – author of the mesmeric Cloud Atlas and The Bone Clocks - is off-puttingly long, peppered with many a forced, awkward celeb cameo (Bowie, Nina Simone, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin...), alongside Mitchell’s usual nods to his other books (characters that overlap his literary worlds). Even harder to square though is the way it’s structured; chunky paragraphs alternately flit back and forth in time. Snatches of Utopia Avenue contain soul, but it takes some getting to. (Review by Ella Walker)
Olive by Emma Gannon
Published in hardback by HarperCollins, priced £14.99 (ebook £6.99). Available July 23 I was hooked straight away by the topics writer and broadcaster Emma Gannon covers in Olive, her first foray into fiction; particularly, how it’s still a ‘taboo’ for a woman to say she doesn’t want children. The story follows the eponymous character and her three best friends, Isla, Cecily and Bea. Moving between their 20s and present-day - as they navigate their early 30s - we
see how their lives have taken very different paths. Gannon’s characters feel comfortingly familiar, and their various struggles many women will be able to identify with. I loved the exploration of how messy friendships can get, and how much warmth, empathy, and understanding Gannon displays throughout. My only criticism would be some plot developments felt rushed. However, that doesn’t take away from how enjoyable it is and I devoured it in one weekend, which says it all. (Review by Georgia Humphries)
8/10
If I Had Your Face? by Frances Cha Published in paperback by Viking, priced £12.99 (ebook £7.99). Available July 23
7/10
NON-FICTION
The Hungover Games by Sophie Heawood
Published in hardback by Jonathan Cape, priced £14.99 (ebook ¬£9.99). Available now
9/10
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
Unexpectedly pregnant in Los Angeles, where she has been living in a bubble as a celebrity journalist, Sophie Heawood returns to the UK to have the baby she had not planned for. What follows next is a frank memoir about shedding one’s old life to nurture another,
If I Had Your Face is the debut novel from Frances Cha, which follows four women who live in the same apartment block in Seoul, South Korea. All of them placing unrealistic expectations of beauty, success and romance upon themselves. Plastic surgery devotee, Kyuri, works as a ‘room salon girl’ where she entertains the ludicrously wealthy men of the city, Miho is an artist with connections to the upper echelons of Korean society, K-Pop obsessed mute, Ara, is a hairdresser and their pregnant neighbour, while Wonna, is stuck in an uninspiring and underpaid office job with fears over how she will afford to be a mother. Each chapter alternates between the four protagonists, told in the first person, the trouble is I had a hard time distinguishing whose voice I was hearing. All of them are struggling to get by in modern day Korea; a place where birth, marriage and unemployment rates are at an all-time low. The book ends a little prematurely and with multiple loose ends left hanging. Ultimately, this is an entertaining book though, but it might leave you feeling slightly unsatisfied. (Review by Frances Wright) trying to date and hold down a freelance career while bringing up a newborn, with a few big-name interviews thrown in along the way. The brutal precision in which she describes prolonged singledom is so accurate it leaves the reader winded; the love for her daughter, sublime. This is in turns unflinching, tender, sad, affirming and cackle-worthy. You don’t need to be a mother, have one in your life or hope to become one, for the razor-sharp observations chronicled here to ring true. (Review by Jemma Crew)
AUDIOBOOKS (FICTION AND NON-FICTION) 1. Too Much and Never Enough by Mary L. Trump
3. Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
2. Agatha Raisin: The Murderous Marriage by M. C. Beaton
4. Blood Of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski 5. The Rats by James Herbert 6. Mythos by Stephen Fry 7. Why I’m No Longer Talking To White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge 8. Time Of Contempt by Andrzej Sapkowski 9. Peace Talks by Jim Butcher 10. The World’s Worst Parents by David Walliams (Compiled by Audible)
CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE WEEK
The Wild Way Home by Sophie Kirtley
Published in hardback by Bloomsbury Children’s Books, priced ¬£6.99 (ebook £4.02). Available now Sophie Kirtley’s debut is a thoughtful and gentle musing on how to cope with change, and control the feeling of fear when it floods your system. It’s Charlie Merriam’s 12th birthday, and his new little brother Dara has just arrived, but the baby is poorly, and Charlie doesn’t know how to love him just yet. So, Charlie runs away to the forest, where he and his friends have built a whole world of their own. Except this time, the forest feels and looks different – and then Charlie finds a boy in animal skins face down in a stream. There are broad echoes of David Almond’s Kit’s Wilderness, but The Wild Way Home is not so darkly complex and tangled. Charlie’s adventures lack a certain amount of peril, while the lives of those he encounters in this ancient version of his forest could do with more fleshing out. However, it’s a solid story about facing what terrifies you, feeling your feelings (however tough that may be) and protecting the ones you love. Plus, it will make you desperate to get out into the forest. (Review by Ella Walker)
7/10
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SPORTS COVERAGE SUSPENDED Because of restricted local sport due to Covid19 the decision has been taken, with much reluctance, to temporarily suspend the regular sporting news that would appear on these back pages. Normal service will be resumed soon.
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21 3
24
26
19
24 10
26
12 8
N
12
8 10
18
15
10
N
7
18
18 5
4
18
10
5
22
7
18
25
17
13
18
12
5
18
14
11
4
10
19 7
18 21
19
5
25
25
8 5 2 6 7
24 8
N
13
4 18 8
N
20 24
2
25
15
18
12
7
18 11
18
15
5
26
8
24
2
X
24 17
5
13
8
N
12
26
5
13
24
10
26
Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.
PUBLIC NOTICE Licensing act 2003
An application has been made by: Superfood ltd for 1 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NT
On the date of: 27/07/2020 Summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: Sale of alcohol & late night refreshment. Mon to Weds 06.30 to 22.00, Thurs 06.30 to 23.45, Fri 06.30 to 01.30, Sat 08.00 to 01.30 Sun 10.00 to 22.00 Any person wishing to view details of an application may contact the Licensing Partnership on 01732 227004 Any person wishing to make representation about the application should make them in writing on or before 27/08/20 Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is £5000.
9
6
6 7 1 2 3
6 8 6 2
6
26 23
6 8 1
Codeword:
8 9 7 6 3 1 8
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
4 5
4
6
12
11
N
13
9
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
3
DIFFICULTY RATING:★★✩✩
2
3
4
7
1 5
1 7
4
5
1
3
9 3 4
6
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
1
39
LAST EDITION’S ANSWERS
SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU
DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★★
CLASSIFIEDS
Life&Times
Puzzles
In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply. Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.
Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue
P E A C O C K P E P Y S
S A L M J U T I U L A D D I N R W K L I V E E N E R N O C K S S R O U L L E Y S A Q W E N G U A B D I L T O P P E D
N I P E R E R I X R A Y S U I K S U R E S I N E E Z E O A N I C E R F H T O L I S H O N L D I A R Y
Sudoku:
4 3 6 2 9 1 5 7 8
9 8 5 7 6 4 2 3 1
2 1 7 8 3 5 4 9 6
1 4 9 3 5 6 7 8 2
3 6 8 1 2 7 9 5 4
5 7 2 4 8 9 1 6 3
8 5 1 9 4 3 6 2 7
1 5 9 8 3 6 4 7 2
2 6 4 1 5 7 3 8 9
7 3 6 2 9 1 8 5 4
6 2 4 5 7 8 3 1 9
7 9 3 6 1 2 8 4 5
Jigsaw Sudoku:
6 7 8 3 2 4 9 1 5
4 9 2 5 1 8 6 3 7
5 1 7 4 8 9 2 6 3
9 8 3 6 7 2 5 4 1
3 4 1 9 6 5 7 2 8
8 2 5 7 4 3 1 9 6
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 5 | 2020
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10/07/2020 16:40