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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
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Lightning strike hits woman as she shelters under tree
BEWL WATER The woman had been visiting the reservoir with her family
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A WOMAN is in a ‘serious condition’ in hospital after being struck by lightning during a heavy storm that passed over Tunbridge Wells on Monday. It happened when the woman, who has not been named, was enjoying a day out with her family at Bewl Water countryside park near Lamberhurst. The woman, who is thought to be in her 40s and live locally, is understood to have been taking shelter beneath a tree and was standing with her husband and daughter, who were both unhurt, when the lightning struck. Staff at Bewl Water have been trained to respond to such incidents, and three of them assisted the
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‘Our balance sheet had been heavily damaged by Covid’ By Richard Williams THE cost of dealing with the Covid pandemic and loss of revenues throughout the crisis, will not leave Council finances in Tunbridge Wells in the red, it has emerged. Despite a fall in revenues from car parks, Council Tax, and Business Rates costing Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] around £8million, the authority has managed to balance its books. The result is that an expected withdrawal from its reserves of £1.5million is now not needed, easing fears that the authority would have to had cut to services and sell off some assets. In fact, thanks to the money received from government grants, TWBC has
ended up £19,000 in the black. Speaking exclusively to the Times, Leader of TWBC, Cllr Tom Dawlings said: “Our balance sheets had been heavily damaged by Covid.
‘It’s been possible by the efforts we went through to maximise the grants’ “But the contributions from government mean we do not need now to drawer from our reserves. Any impact on our balance sheets has been covered.” He added: “This has only been possible by the efforts we went through to maximise the grants and the efforts of our staff to administer the best deal for the town.”
At the height of the crisis last year, the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee were told the health emergency was still costing around £1million a month following ‘widespread collapse in local income and all local governments are under extreme pressure’. TWBC’s main revenue streams, such as Council Tax, business rates and car parking fees were cut dramatically due to the various lockdowns. In contrast, the pandemic has increased spending as the Council had to house the homeless and support shielded residents in addition to providing its normal services.
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Plans revealed to cut number of councillors and elections By Richard Williams
EASING INTO IT How businesses in Tunbridge Wells are adapting to the easing of restrictions on ‘Freedom Day’ across the country P4
THE HEART OF THE MATTER The local pub is taking the lack of defibrillators in the town into its own hands with a fundraising garden party P10
TALL TALES The Times speaks to Nikki Young who runs the children’s creative writing club, ‘Storymakers’ P14
THE number of elected representatives at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] could be slashed by more than a quarter, under new plans set to be revealed this week. Voters will also to be asked to elect their local representatives just once every four years under the proposed changes, which are due to go out to public consultation. The Council currently holds elections three years out of four. In a report set to be discussed by councillors at TWBC’s General Purposes Committee tomorrow [Thursday, July 22], councillors will hear that a review has been triggered by the body that oversees local electoral arrangements.
BALLOTED The public are being asked to change the election cycle
Disparity The Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE) wrote to Council in December 2020 to say the review was triggered after they discovered a disparity between the number of electors and councillors. The LGBCE say seven out of twenty wards in the Borough have at least 10 per cent more or fewer voters compared with the average for the authority area. The review means that the current system, where elections are held annually except for one year in four when there is no ballot, may have to go as changes to legislation now insist that all wards would have to be uniform with three councillors in each. This could see the current number of wards reduced to just 16 instead of 20.
Instead, the Council is proposing to appease the LGBCE by agreeing to the more usual ‘all out’ election cycle, held once every four years. The Council has previously rejected the idea, as it maintained that the three out of four year cycle ‘provides greater stability’ as it ‘reduces the risk of wholesale change’. But the move to a an ‘all out’ system could save the authority around £50,000 every year due to having to hold fewer elections. To suggest the change, the Council will have to justify the number of councillors in the chamber to the LGBCE, but in doing so, the authority says it is likely the number of elected representatives will have to be reduced by around a quarter.
The Electoral Review report, said: “It is worth noting that the prevailing trend amongst councils who have been through a boundary review is for fewer councillors.” It added that compared to other Councils, the average ‘median electoral ratio’ would give TWBC 37 councillors and the mean average 39, which would see a reduction of between nine and eleven councillors, but it could go as low as 30, the report suggested.To proceed with the changes, TWBC is to consult with the public on their views on the change to the electoral cycle. The consultation is set to go to the public on the Councils website [tunbridgewells.gov.uk] on Monday [July 26] and will run until,September 3.
Council emerges from crisis in the black Woman is struck by Continued from front page
year, nearly half of which was due to the loss of car park income, but a raft of financing has been handed TWBC to help plug the gap. TWBC was given £6.95million in funding, including £4.2million for loss income from sales, fees and charges, and £1.3million to reimburse the authority for a loss of Council Tax and Business rates.
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To pay for the crisis, the Council was expecting to plunder its reserves – money that has to be paid back that is put aside for emergencies and capital spending – and the Council began consulting on what assets it could sell off and what services it could cut. It held a public consultation in January to find out what the public thought its spending priorities should be as the authority looked to make swingeing cuts to plug a deficit that could have nearly been as high as £8million. In total, revenues at the Council were down TOM £7.7million DAWLINGS over the last
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KCC’s deficit could be as high as £100million
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THE cost of the Covid crisis at County Hall, could leave Kent County Council [KCC] more than £100million in the red, its finance chiefs have warned. KCC has received more than £346million in emergency funding during the Covid crisis and increased Council Tax by the maximum five per cent [plus two per cent for social care] allowable in law, but it is feared no more money will be forthcoming from the Government.
Strain The Council also received grants equalling more than £1.4million, as well as £293,000 towards the cost of providing additional services because of the pandemic. The result is that the authority has emerged from the pandemic £19,000 in the black, although Cllr Dawlings warned that next year the Council will remain under financial strain from the fallout of the Covid crisis. He said: “There will be a continuation of a loss of revenue for the Council next year. Business rates are down so our income will not recover to pre Covid levels.”
The Government gave four payments to KCC last year to cover the costs of the pandemic, as well as a specific £135million grant to cover the costs of public health measures.
Black hole Tunbridge Wells county councillor Peter Oakford, who is also the deputy leader at County Hall, told colleagues last week: “Current trends are indicating Covid has not gone
away and will be with us for some time. “This financial year we believe will be more difficult than last year because we are not expecting the grant we had from central government.” A finance report presented to KCC, which receives around 70% of Council Tax payments paid by residents in Kent, suggests County Hall could see a financial black hole as high as £103million, if the authority receives no more grants.
lighting at Bewl Water Continued from front page woman at the scene and performed CPR for 30 minutes until emergency services arrived. CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a lifesaving technique normally used when breathing or heartbeat has stopped. Paramedics transferred the injured woman by ambulance to Kings College Hospital in London. In a statement, a spokesman for Bewl Water, said: “On Monday, July 19, emergency services had to be called after a woman was struck by lightning at Bewl Water during a thunderstorm at approximately 4.15pm. “The team at Bewl Water performed CPR until paramedics arrived on the scene.
Response “The injured woman was stabilised before being transferred to a London Hospital by road. “Our thoughts are with the family during this very difficult time.” One of the attending paramedics, later thanked the team at the reservoir. He said: “We’d like to pass on our thanks for what the Bewl team did in a very difficult situation. “Their response made our job easier and thanks to their efforts the lady could be moved to London and has been stabilised, the Bewl team should be immensely proud of their efforts.” A spokesperson for South East Ambulance Service, added: “The woman was given emergency treatment at the scene before being taken to Kings College Hospital in a serious condition with the air ambulance team travelling in the ambulance to help treat the patient en route. “We would like to thank all those who came to the woman’s aid prior to our arrival.”
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Family of teen who died in park to meet police THE family of a 17-year-old boy who died after taking his own life found in Dunorlan Park last year are to meet representatives of Kent Police. Matthew Mackell made several calls to the force for help before taking his own life in the Tunbridge Wells park on May 6, 2020. In April this year, an Inquest into his death found ‘systemic failings’ ‘in the force’s response to Matthew’s calls. Matthew’s family is set to meet with the Assistant Chief Constable of Kent Police today [July 21] at Tonbridge Police Station. A solicitor for the family said: “They hope that Kent Police are able to demonstrate that they have taken real and meaningful steps to protect the lives of young people at risk of suicide.”
Library set to reopen TUNBRIDGE WELLS library is to reopen on Monday, after being closed since the last lockdown. The library is currently based at Royal Victoria Place until its new home, the Amelia Scott cultural hub on Monson Road, is finished next year. The library, along with those in Hawkhurst, Paddock Wood, Pembury and Rusthall will reopen on July 26, along with more than 12 others in the county. The rest of Kent’s libraries are set to reopen on either August 9 or August 16 as part of a ‘phased approach’. Mike Hill, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “We are not proposing to do everything all at once and looking at a continued phased approach, accepting that everyone needs time to adapt to changes.”
Rubbish service raised THE waste collection service in Tunbridge Wells has been raised in parliament by the town’s MP. Greg Clark raised the poor performance of Urbaser in Parliament after meeting Luke Hall, Minister of State for Regional Growth and Local Government. He asked the minister before the House this week: “Will he update my constituents on what action he has taken since our meeting, so that we can see a rapid improvement to their service?” Mr Hall said he had written to Urbaser to ask them how they will address the concerns raised by Mr Clark.
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EV car charger put out of action just weeks after its installation By Richard Williams AN ELECTRIC vehicle [EV] charging station installed on Mount Pleasant Road, has been damaged – just a fortnight after it went operational. The charging point outside the station was to provide both private cars and taxis a place to recharge their cars. The facility, which costs £20,000 plus maintenance to install, was paid for by a government grant following a Kent-wide bid to the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) and comes as the government hopes to phase out petrol and diesel cars by 2030. The ‘rapid’ charging point next to the main taxi rank outside the station was installed to complement the EV chargers in several of the Borough Council’s car parks in Tunbridge Wells and Southborough, but this was the first kerbside charging point. It was installed by Kent County Council [KCC] on July 1, yet vandals
struck on July 12 – less than two weeks from when KCC switched the device on – and broke a connector, putting the charger out of commission. TWBC say they are now waiting for KCC to come and repair the unit. Cllr Matt Bailey, who is in charge of sustainability at the Council, said while he wasn’t certain the damage was deliberate or accidental, he added: “It’s disappointing that the new EV charger was damaged less than two weeks after first being unveiled.
Expensive “The damage is an example of the many issues we need to think about when rolling out EV facilities. “The chargers are an expensive piece of kit that will be left unguarded right next to moving vehicles, so they will be exposed to many risks and will cost significant amounts of money to repair and maintain.”
SHOCKING The damaged car charger has been taped up
New chief for town centre’s Business Improvement District By Robert Forrester THE company that promotes Tunbridge Wells for businesses in the town centre, has hired a new Chief Executive. Sarah-Jane Adams has joined Royal Tunbridge Wells Together [RTWT] as Business Improvement District [BID] Director, replacing Ross Feeney, who stepped down earlier this year due to landing his ‘dream job’.
‘I’m lucky enough to join the BID as full-scale reopening is on the cards’ Ms Adams joins RTWT after working for two years as part of the leadership team of Maidstone’s Business Improvement District. Before that she was Senior Communications Officer for Maidstone Borough Council, responsible for promotional, marketing and comms activity. Sarah-Jane said: “As businesses move into an era of trading post-Covid restrictions, it’s more
important than ever that the retailers, services and eateries that we represent as the Business Improvement District, are supported and promoted in order to drive footfall back to our town centre and navigate the hopefully prosperous months ahead. “The feedback of our businesses, both independents and chains, will directly reflect the projects that I put in place to continue to make Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre a beautiful, unique and creative place to live, work and visit. “And importantly, I want to ensure that everyone in the BID understands and values where the budget is going and can see tangible, positive results.” She added: “I’m
lucky enough to join the BID as full-scale reopening is on the cards. “However, the BID and I are mindful that this is still an uncertain period and, despite restrictions being lifted, we are here with guidance, advice and, of course promotional activity to support the local businesses and drive footfall.
Planned “We should all celebrate ‘freedom’ together and we have plenty planned to do so, but equally we must respect each business and customer’s decision regarding PPE and social distancing in order to provide a safe and positive experience for all workers, shoppers and visitors alike.” For more the town’s ‘Freedom Day’ see page 4 BID BOSS Sarah-Jane Adams
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Little change to masks and distancing despite the ending of virus restrictions coverings and the ‘one metre plus rule’, little will change in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas. The major supermarkets have all said they will ‘encourage’ shoppers to keep wearing face coverings and maintain social distancing. In a statement, Sainsbury’s, whose branches include the Linden Park store and an express shop in St John’s Road, said new signs ‘will encourage customers to continue to wear a face covering, if they can’ with staff also encouraged to do so, unless they are behind a screen.
‘It’s great that it’s called Freedom Day but somehow it doesn’t really feel like freedom’
SHOPPED Supermarkets are ‘encouraging’ the continued use of masks
By Richard Williams THE hospital, supermarkets and businesses in the area say they expect little change to Covid procedures put in place during the pandemic, despite the lifting of restrictions this week. Monday [July 19] saw the final stage in Boris Johnson’s roadmap to end mandatory rules around mask wearing and social distancing. Despite the end of legal restraints on the facial
Tesco, which has a main store in Pembury and several express stores, as well as a Crowborough supermarket are also ‘encouraging’ customers to wear masks. A spokesperson added: “Having listened to our customers and colleagues, we will continue to have safety measures in place in our stores; these include limiting the number of people in store at any time, protective screens at every checkout, hand sanitiser stations and regular cleaning. “We’re asking our customers and colleagues to be on the safe side, and so from July 19 we’ll be encouraging our colleagues to wear face coverings whilst they work and encouraging our customers to do the same when they shop with us.” Asda in Longfield Road as well as the budget
RAISING A CHEER Alex Greig and staff at Fuggles celebrate ‘Freedom Day’ supermarkets Lidl and Aldi, which have stores in Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough, have also said they too would ‘encourage’ the practice and keep many existing measures in place. Meanwhile pub and restaurant owners welcomed ‘Freedom Day’ but said there was still a lot of uncertainty in the industry. Julian Leefe-Griffiths, who runs the Tunbridge Wells Hotel and the popular weekly Jazz on The Pantiles event, said: “Well firstly it’s great that it’s called Freedom Day but somehow it doesn’t really feel like freedom there’s still a lot of uncertainty out there and we’re all not really sure what the future holds. “That said it’s been great operating The Tunbridge Wells Hotel on The Pantiles this summer. The jazz is going really well we’ve got a
LEISURE CENTRE INCREASES CAPACITY MORE people will now be able to take part in sports and exercise classes and sessions at the three leisure centres in the Borough. Fusion Lifestyle which runs the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre in St John’s, Putlands Sports Centre in Paddock Wood and the Weald Leisure
Centre in Cranbrook, says from Monday, the changes will allow more people to exercise safely at its centres. Staff and customers will continue to be encouraged to wear masks as they move around centres and to distance where possible. Anthony Cawley, Director of Fusion
gin festival coming up at the end of the month and then the food festival two weeks after that -so I think we have to keep positive, hopefully test negative and look to the future. Good luck all.” Alex Greig, who runs Fuggles Beer Café, added: “It’s going to be an interesting week for sure, so far it’s been nice to have some people back out and about who we haven’t seen for a long time. “I think things will remain fairly similar overall though - we’re operating in the same way we have been of late, just with the addition of being able to order/stand at the bar, which to some people is a huge thing. “We’re still offering table service, still maintaining a high standard of cleaning and hygiene and still selling great beer, gin and wine.”
POLICE TO STILL WEAR MASKS
said: “We are delighted that our facilities will be able to open to more members of the local community. “We know our centres play a really important role in keeping residents fit and healthy and this latest news means we can help even more people achieve their goals.”
OFFICERS for Kent Police will still wear face masks despite face coverings no longer being mandatory elsewhere. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has said it has written to all forces advising officers continue to wear personal
protective equipment (PPE). A spokesperson for Kent Police said: “In line with national guidance, Kent Police officers and staff will continue to wear personal protective equipment after July 19, to ensure the overall safety of the workforce and the communities.”
Theatre hopes for a full house
Hospital: Covid rules will stay in place THERE will also be no change to Covid procedures at Tunbridge Wells Hospital and local GP surgeries, local health bodies have said. Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust [MTW], which runs both the hospital in Maidstone as well as the one in Pembury, introduced a raft of measures during the pandemic to protect medical staff and patients from the virus. The reduction in the number of patients could result in a record backlog of 35,526 people waiting for non-emergency treatment, which was reported in the Times last week. The hospital has partnered with private clinics to increase the number of patients it can see, and will introduce other measures such as staggered appointments and use of ‘virtual clinics’. Despite this, both MTW and the Kent and Medway Commissioning Group [CCG] says there will be ‘no change’ to the procedures for both staff and patients at the hospital and GP surgeries.
This means masks will still have to be worn by patients, visitors and staff at all healthcare settings, while social distancing will remain as well as restrictions on visitor numbers.
Abuse In a statement Kent and Medway CCG added: “We understand this may be frustrating for some people who do not wish to wear a mask or socially distance, but this is for the benefit of everyone; please don’t abuse NHS staff who are here to protect and care for patients and their loved ones. “Please remember that having both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine offers the best protection against the virus; it is, however, still possible to contract coronavirus, so anything we can do to protect each other and ourselves remains vitally important.”
TUNBRIDGE WELLS theatre, The Assembly Hall, has released thousands of tickets for its upcoming shows now that restrictions have been eased. The 950-seat theatre is now able to run at full capacity for the first time since the pandemic began. The theatre had seen it audiences slashed to as low as 250 when it was first allowed to reopen in October last year. It then had to reclose shortly after as the second wave hit until May this year but provided
testing services for town during the interim. It now says thanks to the lifting of restrictions, it can release ‘thousands’ of tickets for its previously sold out shows.
Encourage These include those to see popular TV comedians Jason Manford [playing tonight, July 21], John Bishop [November 17-18], and Jimmy Carr [Jan 19]. The Assembly Hall is following
the advice of the Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre (SOLT) and will ‘encourage’ mask wearing. Assembly Hall Theatre Director JJ Almond: “We will be able to offer live entertainment to more people, ensuring that live arts stay at the heart of our communities and drive footfall into the town centre for local hospitality businesses. “Our venue can fill up to the rafters again and people can celebrate the restrictions lifting with art.”
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RVP shuts down rent relief as shopping centres struggle on By Richard Williams THE commercial landlord that owns Tunbridge Wells’ flagship shopping centre has told its tenants it will no longer give reductions on rent now that coronavirus restrictions have been lifted. During the pandemic, British Land saw £1billion wiped from the value of its retail portfolio, which includes shopping centres such as the town’s Royal Victoria Place (RVP) as well as a number of outdoor retail parks. It blamed the loss on retail tenants who were unable or unwilling to pay rent. It said it was planning to take a firmer line as the ‘vast majority’ of its customers were trading well.
British Land, who also owns Sheffield’s Meadowhall, said it had made ‘pragmatic and equitable’ arrangements for struggling businesses during the pandemic. Some tenants have paid monthly rather than quarterly to ease pressure on cash flows, while in other cases British Land has waived rents entirely. It has now called time on any concessions. The company said: “With trading restrictions substantially lifted and the vast majority of our customers trading well and paying the rent due, we do not expect to make further concessions this quarter.”
VACANT RVP found it difficult to fill empty units even before the pandemic
Shifting
Renovation British Land bought RVP in 2018, paying £96million, but immediately shelved plans for an £80million major renovation, calling the scheme ‘outdated’. The company instead spent around £10million putting in new floors and signage. There are around 90 units in RVP but currently around a fifth are sitting empty, including the former home of BHS, which has sat abandoned since the company collapsed five years ago. British Land said last week that trading at its out-of-town retail parks was almost back at
pre-pandemic levels, but shopping centres such as RVP were still struggling, with footfall levels a quarter below those seen before the pandemic began. While British Land is receiving substantially more rent than it did when the public was told to stay at home, its figures show that almost
£8million of the £43million due from its retailers in the most recent quarter remained outstanding – most from shopping centre tenants. Footfall at British Land’s shopping centres between May 17 and July 3 was 75 per cent of 2019 levels, compared with 96 per cent at outdoor retail parks.
Men trailing women when it comes to average wages
It is now shifting focus to these outdoor retail parks and has just acquired one at Thurrock in Essex, off the M25, for £82million. Simon Carter, the British Land chief executive, said: “With lockdown restrictions lifting, we have seen a notable improvement in activity across our markets and our business is performing well. “On our retail parks, footfall and sales are close to pre-pandemic levels, rents are stabilising … and there are indications that retail park values are starting to rise as more investors target the market. At Storey, our flexible workspace offer, activity is above pre-pandemic levels.”
Easing sees the largest fall in jobless figures
By Robert Forrester WAGES in Tunbridge Wells are lower than the national average, a payroll survey released last week has found. According to the ONS’ Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, which it conducts at the start of every financial year, the average full-time worker employed in the Borough earned £29,286 in 2020 before tax and deductions – around £563 a week.
National This is lower than the UK average of £29,848 a year – according to the ONS figures, which were based on the salaries from 300,000 UK employers between April 2020 and April 2021. The survey found the average wage page to workers in the South East is £31,647, higher than both the national average and those paid in Tunbridge Wells. But according to the ONS, people who live in Tunbridge Wells but do not necessarily work there, earn 20 per cent more than the average, at £35,448 a year. Women in the Borough are also out-performing
men when it comes to average salaries. While the gender pay gap in Tunbridge Wells is alive and well, with male full-time workers earning £29,286 a year, slightly more than women who earn £28,334, men earn less than
the average male worker in the UK who earnt £32,390 last year. Women workers in Tunbridge Wells on the other hand, are paid more than their national average counterparts who earn £28,288.
Dogs ban consultation begins A CONSULTATION on a proposed ban on dogs at the Nevill Ground and a by-law to insist owners to keep their pets on a lead in parts of Dunorlan Park has been launched. As reported earlier this month Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is seeking the views of residents about proposed changes to its existing Public Space Protection Orders.
As well as an outright ban on dogs at The Nevill Ground – home to Tunbridge Wells Cricket Club, and the ‘dogs on leads requirement’ in parts of Dunorlan Park, the Council also wants to control overnight access at St John’s Park, as well as fine people for anti-social behaviour at Sherwood Lake and several multi-storey car parks. A spokesperson for the Council said: “The
public’s views are important to us and will help shape the way we implement any prohibitions or requirements.” The consultation is available on twbc.online// pspo. Alternatively, a paper copy is available from the Tunbridge Wells Gateway, Paddock Wood Town Council and Cranbrook and Sissinghurst parish council office.
LAST month saw the largest monthly fall in unemployment since the pandemic started, official figures show. There were 230 fewer people claiming out of work benefits – a metric used to ascertain unemployment – in Tunbridge Wells in June, following the reopening of the hospitality sector ahead of the final lifting of restrictions this week. The figures, compiled by the Office for National Statistics [ONS], show that across the borough, a total of 2,590 people were claiming either Universal Credit or some other form of income support.
Recovery This is down from 2,820 in May, with unemployment in the Borough now at its lowest level since the pandemic began and the first signs of recovery begin to show. Jobless figures shot up in Tunbridge Wells to 2,325 following the introduction of the first lockdown last year, rising from 1,130 in March to 2,325 in April. The number of people having to claim out of work benefits then crept up throughout 2020, reaching a peak of 3,315 in May last year – the highest levels seen since the Black Wednesday economic crash more than 27 years ago.
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Return to office could result in rise of ‘Covid bullying’ businesses told By Richard Williams AN EMPLOYMENT lawyer has said that the easing of restrictions enacted on Monday could leave employers of risk from claims of bullying and harassment due to the pandemic. Ben Stepney, a senior associate at Tunbridge Wells based Thomson Snell & Passmore, says workers that have been furloughed, those that suffer from long Covid, and those who have not been vaccinated are all at risk of being ‘shunned’ by colleagues. Writing on his law blog, Mr Stepney said: “Bullying and harassment remain significant workplace issues despite a growing awareness of the problem. “Furthermore, these issues have been exacerbated by the Covid pandemic, with studies showing that Covid sufferers, the unvaccinated and furloughed workers suffered from discriminatory behaviours and stigma.” He said that this behaviour could rise now the guidance to work from home has been lifted from Monday [July 19] and more workers return to their offices. He said: “Studies by the British Medical Journal have shown that people who have been diagnosed with or having previously had the virus were more likely to experience workplace bullying. “This includes ‘long-covid’ sufferers, whose condition is viewed as an ongoing concern rather than one of the past. Equally, those who refuse the vaccination, be it for religious beliefs or personal views, were more likely to be shunned by colleagues and viewed with suspicion according to a study by Unison trade union. “A similar phenomena is seen with furloughed workers or part-time workers, who were more
WARNING Ben Stepney from Thomson Snell & Passmore
Further expansion with accountant hire THOMSON Snell & Passmore has welcomed another new partner to the ‘world’s oldest law firm’. Alan Kitcher joins as a Certified Chartered Accountant join’s the busienss’s Trust Management team, bolstering its offering to clients. Alan joins from Charles Russell Speechlys, where he was Head of Trusts and Probate and brings with him significant experience and expertise in advising wealthy families on all aspects of the management and administration of wealth and asset protection structures, gained from 16 years in the private client industry with both accountancy and law firms.
Conveyancing
generally viewed as less important than fully working colleagues or their productivity and drive unreasonably questioned according to research by King’s College London.”
Performance He continued: “Remember many of these issues would have remained largely under the surface whilst employees were working from home and having minimal contact with each other. However, a return to the workplace will reunite a large group of people impacted differently by the pandemic and this can lead to cases of bullying.” Some tell-tale signs of bullying included, an employee’s job performance deteriorating for no
apparent reason, a gregarious employee becoming withdrawn, an employee calling in sick regularly or an employee consistently sitting away from another employee during meetings. Mr Stepney told the Times that the legal ramifications included threat of an employment tribunal. He said: “An employee who is being bullied is normally expected to raise a grievance in the first instance.” He continued: “An employee who is dissatisfied with the way their grievance has been handled could potentially resign and claim they have been constructively dismissed. “Where the bullying relates to a protected characteristic, the employee may bring a discrimination claim, which they can choose to do whilst remaining in employment.”
Probate and Tax Planning departments, to advise clients on a wide range of matters as well as supporting the Residential Conveyancing and Commercial Property teams, offering advice on issues such as Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and the Annual Tax on Envelope Dwellings (ATED). On joining Thomson Snell & Passmore, which dates back 450 years to 1570, Mr Kitcher, said: “I’m thrilled to be joining a firm with such a unique heritage, as part of team which is so well respected in the industry. “Thomson Snell & Passmore has a reputation for delivering excellent client service – something which I am passionate about – and I’m looking forward to helping the team grow and develop as we work together to deliver an outstanding Alan offering to Kitcher clients.”
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk ON TRACK Workers keeping the rails repaired
Positive assessment for the region’s rail network By Robert Forrester THE Government body that looks after the nation’s railways has been praised by the transport watchdog for its work in region. The Office of Rail and Road’s Regulation [ORR] annual assessment of Network Rail shows the Southern region was the organisations best performing area. The Southern network includes rail lines across the South including the main lines that run through Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough. It said the body worked innovatively to carry out necessary maintenance and engineering works on these lines despite the challenges of the pandemic.
However, following the deaths of two workers in Eastleigh and Surbiton, the regulator also highlights the need for further improvements to worker safety.
Regulator In addition, the regulator has highlighted the need for Network Rail to catch-up on assessing the condition of bridges and other structures. Over a third of structures examinations carried out in the Southern region are ‘non-compliant’ the ORR said, adding that is taking action to ensure this is rectified. It added that Network Rail’s delivery of efficiencies is on track across all of its regions, with the Southern region
reporting £120.3million of efficiency improvements in 2020-21, against a target of £112.9million. David Kimball, ORR’s Senior Regulation Manager for the Southern region said: “Network Rail has shown great resilience and initiative in the face of the pandemic to carry out much needed maintenance and engineering works, helping to deliver a more reliable rail network. “The need for relentless focus on safe ways of working has been tragically highlighted by the deaths of two Network Rail employees in the region. “We’ll continue to hold Network Rail to account for its work to implement greater safety improvements and for addressing the backlog of inspections.”
Local News
BUSINESS
9
New partner at Berry & Lambert TUNBRIDGE WELLS based Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, has welcomed a new Partner to the law firm. Darren Forrester is as an experienced litigation solicitor and is joining the firm, which also has offices in Sevenoaks, in its Commercial & Dispute Resolution department, headed up by Managing Partner, Paul Reader. Darren qualified as a solicitor in 2007 and, prior to joining Berry & Lamberts, worked in a niche central London practice before moving to Thackray Williams where he specialised in civil and commercial dispute resolution.
to the Commercial & Dispute Resolution department as we progress our plans to further develop this area of the business. “Joining us as Partner means he also plays an integral role in the management of this well-respected, 270-year-old, Kent law firm.”
Training Speaking of the appointment, Mr Reader, said: “We are delighted to welcome Darren to Berry & Lamberts. “He brings with him a wealth of experience and will be a great asset
Darren Forrester
Insurers back foundation
NFU Mutual Agents has donated more than £6,400 to a charity that supports nurses in funding their higher education and training. The insurer said the money given to the Kent, East Sussex and Cambridge based the Sammi B Foundation comes from a national £2million ‘Agency Giving Fund’ NFU launched in February. NFU said the fund was set up to help local frontline charities following the pandemic. This follows £1million of support
delivered by NFU Mutual’s Agency Giving Fund in 2020, which helped charities across many sectors to keep their life-changing services going throughout the crisis. Zachary Baldwin, from The Sammi B Foundation, said: “The donation from NFU Mutual Flimwell agency will financially support the families of transplant patients by covering their travel and accommodation expenses, in order to keep families together in their hardest times.”
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Community News
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Pub is at the heart of the town with new fundraising drive… “It’s uncomfortable when you see how few defibrillators there are in the Tunbridge Wells”
purchase a quality defibrillator that is fixed to the wall you are looking at £1650. “I also think that getting the local community involved in fundraising for a heart defibrillator will heighten the community’s awareness of having a heart defibrillator near to where they live. “I have already spoken to some of our customers and my staff and they are fully behind fundraising to purchase a quality heart defibrillator that is available to the local community 24/7. “I am also sending my management team and head chef on first aid courses so we are all fully trained on CPR and how to use a heart defibrillator. “We are already starting to receive great prizes for a fundraising raffle, donated by our fabulous customers, local businesses and pub suppliers all of whom think that raising funds for this purpose is a great idea.
Friendly FROM THE HEART (L-R) Leanne Foster, Christopher Hall and Gez Wilmot A LOCAL pub is throwing a garden party to raise money for a new defibrillator and to support the British Heart Foundation. It comes after the Times reported last week that the Robin Hood on Sandhurst Road had fundraised for a defibrillator after the sudden death of a resident following a cardiac arrest at the pub. Now, The Allotment, on St James’ Road in Tunbridge Wells is fundraising for the live saving device after landlordwas inspired by watching the Euros football match where Danish football player, Christian Eriksen suffered cardiac arrest. During the fundraiser, there will be CPR demonstrations from the Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Community First Responders will be taking place after the Times put The Allotment in contact with the organisation following last week’s story. Landlord , Gez Wilmot said: “I think it made a lot of us think as to the importance of having a defibrillator quickly to hand at your place of work or at any location for that matter. “It certainly made me think at the pub what would happen if someone had a cardiac arrest on our premises or indeed anywhere around the immediate surrounding area including the park.
“In fact the nearest 24/7 available heart defibrillator to the pub from what I can see using the national defibrillator site would take 30 minutes to run to there and back of 20 minutes by car there and back if the traffic was good but this could waste valuable minutes of resuscitation time.” Defibrillators are used after a cardiac arrest and work by sending an electric show to the heart to restore its usual rhythm. The closest 24/7 hour accessible defibrillator is on Silverdale Road at the St John’s Ambulance building – which is a 15 minute walk from the pub – and another at The Wells Free School on Mount Ephraim. Mr Wilmot continued: “It’s actually quite uncomfortable when you look on the national heart defibrillator site to see how few defibrillators there actually are in the Tunbridge Wells area, certainly defibrillators that are available to the public 24/7 and are registered on the national database.
Awareness “Much as I would like to buy a heart defibrillator outright, the cost is currently too prohibitive for the pub at the moment. To
GO WILD Bethany Kennaugh
“Donated prizes so far range from a hot air balloon ride for two across the Kent and Sussex countryside complete with a cider reception on landing (you’ll probably need a drink after that to calm your nerves) also prizes such as a deep house clean by two cleaners for four hours, football lessons for a child at a local football academy during the summer holidays, to a tasty 3kg of Rib eye steak, free cocktail making lessons by a professional for two people. “To help the fund raising along, we have organised a family friendly garden party at The Allotment Pub, complete with a hog roast and jugs of Pimms and other fund-raising activities paid for by the pub going towards the Heart Defibrillator. “The raffle will be held on the same day as the Garden Party subject to the latest Covid restrictions. “Amongst our many activities on the day will have a CPR demonstration by Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells First Responders. “Any monies raised in excess of £1650 will go to the British Heart Foundation to help promote heart defibrillators nationwide. “We will be selling raffle tickets from this week onwards and promoting the event at every opportunity on the lead up to 31st July.” The Garden Party is taking place on July 31, for more information, see our What’s On section on Page 38. or visit https:// allotmenttunbridgewells.co.uk
Local girl climbs the walls for wildlife charity A CLIMBING centre in Tunbridge Wells is set to go wild for a charity fundraising challenge. Bethany Kennaugh is 12 years old and aiming to climb the height of Mount Kilimanjaro (5895m) to raise money for the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust which works across Kenya to ‘complement the conservation, preservation and protection of wildlife and habitats.’
Conserve The height is the equivalent of 1404 climbs of the slab at Chimera climbing Centre, and so far, Bethany has completed 610 ascents of the wall. She explained why she wanted to raise money for the Trust: “I wanted to do something to support the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust not just because I love elephants but because it is important to conserve their environment and teach people to live harmoniously with and protect the nature as it came first.” You can follow the challenge progress on Instagram or Facebook @kili4swt and sponsor Bethany via https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ BethanyKennaugh
Town’s group raises money for refurbishment of hospital’s pregnancy bereavement unit
HERE TO SUPPORT Bereavement Support midwives Harriet Burke (left) and Sarah Phillips (right)
THE pregnancy bereavement suite at Tunbridge Wells Hospital has been given a makeover thanks to a group which supports those affected by the loss of a baby. The Hope Butler Suite opened in 2011 and was named in honour of Hope Butler who was born sleeping in 1995 at the hospital. It was refurbished with the help of Tunbridge Wells Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society group (SANDS) who set up a JustGiving page to help raise funds. The suite includes a bedroom, bathroom, lobby and kitchen and was made more homely with thanks to interior designer Justine Hodgson, who used the money raised by SANDS to add bedside tables, a rocking chair and lamps to create a calm environment for families. Bereavement Support Midwives were
introduced to the Trust in November 2015 to provide support to families who experience pregnancy loss from 13 weeks and or whose baby has passed away within four weeks of being born.
Fortunate Harriet Burke, who works as a Bereavement Support Midwife for the Trust, said: “We feel very fortunate to be able to offer parents the use of the Hope Butler Suite during their time of loss and have received positive feedback from families that have sadly found themselves in need of it. “Many parents have benefitted from the thoughtful touches including the beautiful rocking chair and the lamps that create soft lighting. “On behalf of the Trust, we would like to
say a huge heartfelt thank you to all of those who were involved in the refurbishment - in particular Emma Jefferys at SANDS who put us in touch with Justine. Without their dedication to fundraising, support and attention to detail we would not have this beautiful suite to allow parents to spend private time with their babies and grieve in comfort.” Emma Jefferys, from SANDS, said: “We liaise with the midwives at Tunbridge Wells Hospital on a regular basis to ensure the Hope Butler Suite is as comfortable and well-equipped as possible, so when the Trust approached the group and asked if it could help to provide some updates SANDS was only too happy to help. “We hope the recent improvements help to provide even more of a sanctuary for families who are sadly in the first stages of the grieving process.”
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National News
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
SPACEED OUT Mark Bezos, Jeff Bezos, Oliver Daemen and Wally Funk of Blue Origin
Amazon chief blasts off to edge of space BILLIONAIRE Jeff Bezos reached the edge of space after taking off on Blue Origin’s first human flight. The Amazon founder launched in the suborbital New Shepard rocket from Texas, on Tuesday, the 52nd anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. He entered space with his brother Mark, female astronaut Wally Funk, 82, who trained in 1961 but never went to space, as well as the company’s first customer, Dutch 18-year-old Oliver Daemen.
Zero-gravity Ms Funk and Mr Daemen are the oldest and youngest people to fly into space, respectively. The flight lasted around 11 minutes from launch to capsule landing. Astronauts experienced three to four minutes
of zero-gravity and travelled above the Karman Line, which is considered to be the boundary of space. After the launch the crew could be heard cheering and shouting ‘woohoo’. The booster that blasted the group of four into space before separating successfully landed back on Earth shortly after lift-off. Shortly after the soft landing, a voice that appeared to be that of Jeff Bezos could be heard saying: “Best day ever.” When asked by mission control how he was, his brother Mark said: “I am unbelievably good.” The mission comes days after Sir Richard Branson flew into space on Virgin Galactic, and aimed to reach an altitude of roughly 66 miles (106 kilometres), more than 10 miles (16 kilometres) higher than Sir Richard’s ride on July 11. Blue Origin is planning two more flights before the end of the year.
Number 10 doesn’t deny National Insurance hike is on the cards DOWNING STREET has not denied that National Insurance contributions could be increased to fund a new social care plan, in a move that would break a Conservative manifesto pledge. Boris Johnson is reportedly considering plans to raise National Insurance payments by one percentage point for employers and employees to raise £10 billion a year to help support the ageing population. The Prime Minister is yet to get a deal over the line but is understood to be close, and has declined to rule out tax rises to pay for his long-awaited social care reforms. Downing Street on Tuesday also declined to deny suggestions that a controversial National Insurance rise could form a central part of Mr Johnson’s proposals. “There’s continued speculation
but I’m simply not going to be engaged with that speculation,” the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said in the first in-person briefing for Westminster journalists since before the first lockdown.
Business “The process for agreeing our proposals is still ongoing. “We will set that out before the end of the year.” The plan is not expected before the autumn, with the Commons set to rise for its summer break following Thursday’s business. There had been widespread expectation that a plan would be put forward before the summer, but the three main players who would be involved in the decision – the Prime Minister, Chancellor and Health
Secretary – are all self-isolating. Earlier, business minister Paul Scully said he did not recognise reports in the newspapers, but he told Sky News: “We’ll see what happens in terms of when we announce our details on social care.” He said: “What we do want to happen is to make sure that we can come up with a comprehensive programme to tackle social care. It’s been around for a long time this issue, and we really do need to get to grips with it, and that’s what the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary are really determined to do.” Mr Johnson said he’d soon set out how to respond to the challenge of the cost of social care, two years since he used his first speech as PM to promise to ‘fix the crisis in social care once and for all.’
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
NEWS IN BRIEF
Chain fined after seat death of cinemagoer VUE Entertainment has been fined £750,000 for safety breaches after a cinema chair’s leg-rest fatally trapped a film-goer. Ateeq Rafiq, 24, died in hospital in March 2018 after his neck became wedged under the powered chair, which was found to have a blown fuse in its control box. Birmingham Crown Court was told the father-of-one had kneeled down to search for his keys and phone, unaware that the foot-rest at Vue’s cinema at the Star City leisure complex was impossible to lift by hand. An inquest held in 2019 was told other luxury seats had a leg-rest that could be lifted up, due to being fitted with a different actuator. Vue, based in Chiswick, west London, pleaded guilty earlier this year after an investigation by Birmingham City Council.
NHS worker stabbed A 21-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested on suspicion of wounding after a member of staff was stabbed at Wolverhampton’s New Cross Hospital. West Midlands Police said the injured woman, whose age has not been released, suffered injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening at about 11am on Tuesday. A police spokesman urged anyone with information to contact the force by live chat on its website or by calling 101. The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust said in a statement: “There has been a police incident at New Cross Hospital this morning. Police are currently on site and we have increased security presence. “There is no disruption to services so please attend A&E or your appointment as normal.”
Gas dispute ends A LONG-RUNNIG dispute at British Gas has ended after workers accepted an improved pay deal, their union has announced. The GMB declared an end to the so-called “fire and rehire” dispute after its members backed an agreement by three to one. Around 7,000 British Gas engineers staged 44 days of strike action stretching over several months. The GMB said that, after ‘gruelling’ negotiations, a new deal offers improvements to overtime rates and unsocial hours payments, places limits on the amount of unsocial working undertaken, reverses the decision to close the defined benefit pension scheme to new starters, and opens the door for those who left the business to return.
Tartan James Bond A NEW Sir Sean Connery tartan in tribute to the late James Bond actor will be unveiled this weekend at the Dressed to Kilt fashion show in New York. The popular event returns after a coronavirus-related hiatus last year and will be held at Long Island’s Mill Neck Manor on Saturday night. During the show, which was originally co-founded by Connery, he will be honoured with a new tartan specially designed for the actor with input from his family. His fellow Dressed to Kilt co-founder Dr Geoffrey Scott Carroll arranged the plan for the kilt which is produced by Glenisla Kilts with a bespoke coat and dress designed by Totty Rocks of Edinburgh. The kilt’s debut will be modelled on the runway by Sir Sean’s granddaughters, Natasha and Samara Connery.
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National News
NEWS
13
A million children off school as the ‘pingdemic’ continues MORE than one million children in England were out of school last week for Covid-19-related reasons, Government figures show. Around one in seven (14.3 per cent) state school pupils did not attend class for Covid-19 related reasons on July 15, up from 11.2 per cent on July 8 and 8.5 per cent on July 1, according to Department for Education (DfE) statistics. These include approximately 934,000 children self-isolating due to a possible contact with a Covid-19 case, 47,000 pupils with a confirmed case of coronavirus, and 34,000 with a suspected case of Covid-19.
SCHOOLS OUT Classrooms are sitting empty as whole year groups are isolating
Bubbles A further 35,000 pupils were off as a result of school closures due to Covid-related reasons. The latest figures come after Education Secretary Gavin Williamson announced that the use of ‘bubbles’ in schools and colleges in England will come to an end as the country eases lockdown restrictions. Current rules say that children have to self-isolate for 10 days if another pupil in their bubble – which can be an entire year group at secondary school – tests positive for coronavirus. But Mr Williamson has said it will be up to individual schools and colleges as to whether they scrap the bubble system this week ahead of the summer holidays, following the move to Step 4 of the road map. The figures come as Downing Street has moved to combat confusion over how people should respond if ‘pinged’ by the NHS Covid-19 app.
Number 10 said it was ‘crucial’ for people to quarantine in line with the app’s recommendation, just hours after a Government minister suggested people should make an “informed decision” about whether to obey the technology. Although it has never been a legal requirement to obey the app’s instructions, the official NHS guidance has been that people should “selfisolate immediately” when told to. On Monday night, Boris Johnson had stressed the importance of self-isolation as ‘one of the only shots we have got left in our locker to stop the chain reaction of the spread of Covid’
following the lifting of England’s restrictions. “I’m afraid that at this stage it’s simply a consequence of living with Covid and opening up when cases are high in the way that we are,” he said. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister is facing a backlash over his plans to make coronavirus vaccination compulsory for nightclubs and other crowded venues in the autumn. Clubs, backbench Tories and opposition MPs criticised Mr Johnson’s announcement on Monday – the day that clubs in England were allowed to open for the first time since March last year.
Channel crossings continue as figures match last year PEOPLE continued to risk making the perilous journey across the English Channel to the UK on Tuesday, with numbers for 2021 now approaching the entire figure for 2020. More than 8,000 migrants have succeeded in making the dangerous trip so far this year, according to data analysis. Men, women and children, many of whom have fled violence, torture and persecution, regularly set off from France packed on board unseaworthy dinghies, often after paying peoplesmugglers. On Monday, at least 430 people, including women and young children, made the journey, a new record for a single day. High numbers of migrants continue to risk their lives in their bid to cross
the 21-mile Dover Strait, despite Home Secretary Priti Patel’s vow to make the route “unviable”. More people reached Britain on Tuesday, with multiple beach landings at Dungeness, and others arriving at Dover, further along the coast. With more than 8,000 people having crossed to the UK on board small boats so far this year, 2021 is nearing the total annual figure of 8,417 reached in 2020, analysis shows. Numbers of crossings have shot up in recent years, with last year’s total more than quadrupling the number of arrivals in 2019. Despite this, the UK continues to see far fewer boat arrivals and asylum claims than many of its
HMV backs high street with expansion plans HMV has said it plans to put its faith in the UK high street by opening 10 more stores this year. The boss of the entertainment retailer said it will seek to incorporate more live music into its stores as part of its investment into bricks and mortar sites.
Perform The company, which opened its first store on Oxford Street in 1921, said Ed Sheeran will perform a
centenary concert at the HMV Empire site in Coventry to 700 customers in August. Doug Putman, the Canadian retail boss who bought the business in 2019, said: “The music venue business didn’t perform particularly well so we aren’t doing the same thing again – this is more of a shop hybrid and won’t be the same for every shop. We have a really enthusiastic core of customers and we know that they want to see investment in the store experience.”
European counterparts. At least 44,230 people have arrived in Europe via the Mediterranean by land and sea so far this year, according to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Rise Also, despite the sharp rise in small boats arrivals on the south coast, asylum applications in the UK fell in 2020 to 29,456. This was significantly lower than the 93,475 asylum applications made in France and the 121,955 made in Germany. In October, a Kurdish-Iranian family, including small children,
died when their migrant boat sank off the French coast. Speaking on Times Radio, immigration minister Chris Philp said Monday was the “worst day ever” for crossings and it is “vital” that action is taken. He said Ms Patel is close to reaching an “enhanced agreement” with French authorities to boost co-operation and increase police patrols on French beaches. Mr Philp also pledged that the controversial Nationality and Borders Bill currently going through Parliament “closes some loopholes” and will reform the asylum system. However a coalition of campaigners called Together With Refugees has said the Bill is inhumane and unworkable.
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Education News
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
EDUCATION Times “Being able to write creatively helps children become better communicators” Nikki Young runs a creative writing club called Storymakers. Here she tells the Times all about it and how parents and carers can encourage children to switch from screens and be inspired to write ... UP UNTIL Covid struck I ran my Storymakers workshops in person but pretty much like everything else, my business was forced to go online in March 2020 as we entered into the first lockdown. Transferring to Zoom was no issue for what I do and my private weekly writing groups for kids aged 7-16 continued. It wasn’t until the second lockdown that I noticed a change. I’ll call it Zoom fatigue because it sounds better than ‘online learning fatigue’, which is essentially what it actually was.
“Children work with me over a week to write a story that they then receive as a published book” By March this year, children were waning. I had been doing lots of one-to-one English and writing sessions as well as my groups to help children who needed it, but I was starting to see the pressures of homeschooling taking their toll. That’s when I had a re-think about what I was going to do for my Easter workshops and instead of the comprehension, SPAG (spelling, punctuation and grammar)and vocabulary that I usually do, I decided to try something different. The idea was to offer a creative outlet and give the children something tangible for all their hard work; I think many were finding homeschooling a relentless chore, with very little reward. So, I decided to run a workshop whereby the children would work with me over the course of the week to write a story that they would then receive as a published book. Not surprisingly, parents snapped up the places. It seemed other parents were thinking the same thing and were actively looking for something like this for their children.
Following the workshops, parents told me about how excited their children were to receive the book. They felt like published authors and were so proud of themselves. Being able to write creatively helps children become better communicators and gives them the skills to be able to express their thoughts. This is a valuable and transferable life skill. Critical thinkers and creatives are people who can think for themselves, ask questions, solve problems and believe in themselves enough to trust their instincts and go with them. Not only that, they can communicate their ideas with others. According to the latest National Literacy Trust research – a survey of 42,502 children and young people in the UK – writing enjoyment is at its lowest level since the survey began ten years ago. Only 1 in 7 (15.2 per cent) children and young people said they wrote something in their spare time every day. The situation also differs between boys and girls, with 2 in 5 girls saying they enjoy writing, compared with 1 in 4 boys: particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Confident Those who do write said that it makes them feel happy or more confident, it helps them relax, it helps them feel creative and like they can express their ideas, and because it makes them feel connected to the world. Not surprisingly, there was an increase this year with children writing digitally. Technology is everywhere, and we can’t ignore that. Children learn by example, so it’s up to us as adults to show them that it’s possible to have that balance and perhaps use technology in a positive way to help foster creativity.
PAGE TURNER Nikki Young runs creative writing club Storymakers
How to get your children writing Make a story out of your spellings: Pick a word and write a sentence that includes it. Pick another word and write the next sentence of the story. Keep going until you have used all the words from your spellings list.
Make a story box: Collect random object and put them in a box. Pick out three of four items and write down notes about them, starting your thinking process with ‘what if’. Can you connect all the objects for a story?
Write for a purpose - send a letter: Grandparents, friends, aunts, uncles, who doesn’t love to receive a letter? The best thing about letter writing, is receiving a reply in the post. Much more exciting than bills!
Make a map: Create a map of a treasure island and write an adventure story. Characters: Find an image of a character you find interesting. Who are they? Where do they live? What could be their story?
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Storymakers has been running since 2017, offering weekly groups, holiday workshops and 1:1 English and writing sessions for £10 per child, per hour. The next book-writing workshop will be during the October half term. Summer workshops include creative writing, comprehension, vocabulary and SPAG, are held Monday to Thursday mornings, 8.30-9.30 a.m. (on Zoom) during July and August. Find out more at www. storymakersclub.com
GREG CLARK MP ADVICE SURGERIES
If you have an individual problem which you think I can help with or you would like to have a chat about a more general issue, please do get in touch. I am holding regular advice surgeries – by zoom or telephone. To make an appointment, please call:
01892 519854 or email:
greg.clark.mp @parliament.uk
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Weekly Comment
Victoria White Conservative Cllr for Park Ward, Tunbridge Wells
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Victoria White is a marketing professional with 20 years experience. She was elected as Conservative borough councillor for Park ward in 2021.
Communication has not been this Council’s strongest point I WAS honoured and delighted to be elected as a new Conservative councillor for Park ward in May. Winning the seat showed that local residents understand and appreciate the hard work local Conservatives put in over the last 18 months during an incredibly difficult time for the Borough Council and for all of us. But I believe the support I received was about more than just that. It was also recognition that the Conservatives in Tunbridge Wells are changing and that we are planning a new and exciting future for the town.
something I feel strongly that we, as a Conservative Council, have not been good enough at doing. With a town centre in need of rejuvenation, now is the time to talk to everyone to understand what they care about and what they want our town to look like going forward. Gone are the days of the Council imposing policies from above. Going forward we must
understand and deliver what you want as residents.We can only achieve this through better communication. We are already moving in the right direction, with the Council talking to residents on social media and via a new weekly, personalised e-newsletter (see twbc.online/alerts). And, for people who still prefer print media, we have revamped our ‘Local’ magazine, a free
Residents It’s fair to say that the Conservatives have a reputation for a certain ‘type’ of councillor but the last election has shown this is no longer true. I was able to add another female councillor to the Conservative group, and I now work alongside other new and younger Conservatives – such as Lance Goodship, Paul Roberts and Harry Allen - all keen to bring a new perspective and voice to local politics. Together we want to deliver change. I believe this needs to be focused around two things – communication and cooperation. With a background in marketing, I understand the importance of communication. It’s
REJUVENATION: The Council wants to know what you want your town centre to look like in the future
PUBLIC NOTICE
Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence Terri Kopp of 11 New Road, Penshurst, Tonbridge TN11 8EH IS APPLYING FOR A LICENCE TO USE Aveling Lodge, Pinkham, Tonbridge TN12 5EU AS AN OPERATING CENTRE FOR 1 GOODS VEHICLES AND 0 TRAILERS
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.
publication distributed to every household four times a year. But communication must be a two-way process. So I’m working with other Conservative councillors to further use new technology to increase engagement and talk with local people. We will soon roll out a new web portal enabling us to have more conversations with residents about the town and its future. I hope you will take part in this debate. Since my election I’ve been so impressed with the enthusiasm and desire of everyone to do the best they can for the town and for residents. But we can’t deliver on this desire without cooperation and its vital that the Council, as a whole, finds ways of working together. The recent elections have changed the political make-up of the Council and left it very finely balanced. So it’s more important than ever that everyone, from all parties, steps up and works together to find new ways of working collectively and cooperating to deliver the future our residents deserve. I’m so excited about the opportunity I now have to work with and support local residents and play my part as a borough councillor. I will always stay true to my belief that we must listen to everyone’s voice and work together to move our town forward. If we can do those two things – communicate and cooperate – I believe the future looks bright.
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
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Letters
NEWS
17
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or you can write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG
Town Hall news is not welcome
sixty years and put the 0.7% target into law in 2015. It is the right thing to do, both for the UK, and those who need our help. Greg Clark has voted to end that commitment. It is wrong. Cllr Ben Chapelard Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Tunbridge Wells
Robust Tugendhat does not flap Tom Tugendhat’s robust stance in Parliament described in Nicholas Henderson’s letter last week is in contrast to our very own Greg Clark who flaps and flops and, with beetled brows, expresses this and that concern - and then votes with the government. The foreign aid budget is a case in point. Ben Hardy Warwick Park
Water company is irresponsible
THE news last week that the Town Hall was in a poor state of repair [see Times July 14] is very unwelcome. The public paid for this building and the only occupants have been elected politicians and public servants both of whom raise and disburse funds; they are its occupants, but its
Idling idea is about revenue Once again Tunbridge Wells Borough Council doesn’t miss the chance to show just how inept it is: they have a wizard idea to raise revenue by fining stationary motorists for leaving their engines idling, and then it becomes clear that the scheme would cost more than the income. So, forget high-minded ideals about saving the planet and pursuing its much-vaunted green agenda, because if it’s about that they’d have pursued it; no, this is about revenue generation, nothing more, nothing less. Of course, if there was an original thinker on the team they’d have asked the question: why is the traffic standing still in the first place? and then addressed that problem. Ralph Steerpike Tunbridge Wells
Cinema site sums don’t add up Why has no-one yet been able to make the sums add up for the cinema site The Leader of TWBC suggests ‘too much was paid’ for it. Seriously? £11M is less than 15% of the reported £80M Gross Development Value. (A developer in the SE today may target 30% of GDV for build costs, 20% for profit (yes, really), up to 50% for land). Cllr Peter Lidstone speculates that the build costs are too great, because of the piling needed over the railway tunnel. Hardly a problem a seasoned developer like Elysian Residences failed to build into their calculations? And they are keen to develop elsewhere: on 21 April this year, ‘Octopus Real Estate…and Elysian Residences announced the formation of a major new joint venture …The luxurious new [retirement] communities …are targeted to generate close to £200m of GDV. Construction on the first scheme in Berkhamsted is due to commence in the Autumn…Elysian Residences are actively looking for new sites and investment opportunities as part of our vision to be the foremost provider of inspiring and elegant retirement communities in the UK.” Tunbridge Wells has no lack of wealthy elderly
stewards too. That this Grade II listed building has been allowed to degenerate is a disgrace and people should be held to account. I note that Greg Clark has office space there; does the Conservative party pay for this, or do I? Peter Casson, Tunbridge Wells folk, whose homes could be freed up for families if they moved into flats. So why won’t Elysian build here? I think we should be told. Because until someone puts together a workable scheme, not only will this eyesore persist indefinitely, but the Council is losing out on council tax and business rates – and has done for over 20 years. Clr Dariel Francis High Brooms
The last time I swam in British waters was in 1963: After a brief dip I surfaced surrounded by raw sewage. Recent reports of Southern Water’s indiscriminate and wholly irresponsible actions confirm that my resolution was not wrong. Water contaminated with faeces is a classic vector for the transmission of polio. Just a few years ago and just an hour after a very enjoyable lunch that included half-a-dozen oysters I was violently and hideously sick. Put; more graphically, uncontrollable projectile vomiting hardly did the experience justice in the description. I now know who was responsible. Edward Baker Tunbridge Wells
Lib Dem result is a pipe dream Poor old Ben Chapelard has not exactly come up smelling of roses in recent weeks has he? His assumption that the Amersham result is going to spark a Liberal avalanche is a pipe dream. Blaming HS2 for the Amersham result is a sideshow and I don’t recall the voters there
making a fuss when the M40 gouged a great lump out of their Chilterns in 1967; the real issue was planning and one that Boris should not ignore. However, we the electorate need to take an even wider view of our future. Not since the first seeds of our governments were sown by Magna Carta in 1215 has any government governed for all of us; they’ve governed all of us but never for all of us. In the early days it was just the wealthy landowners who called the shots; the rest of the population was sunk in serfdom. In later centuries not much changed. Fast forward to more recent times and we’ve had to tolerate swings one way and swings the other way usually with attendant waste and indifference to the effects upon taxpayers. Never has this been truer than it is today with our politicians having their strings pulled by tax cheats, the national newspaper barons and other oligarchs. And let us also not overlook wider lobbying and cronyism either! It’s time for long overdue change. It’s time to dismantle the Two Party Pendulum. It’s time to dump the divisive ‘first past the post’ concept and revisit proportional representation. Of the 43 Countries in Europe, 40 use some form of PR and the only reason we don’t have it here is that the main parties are obsessed with being in complete control to the extent of subjugation of all else especially issues that matter to the people in the street. PR wouldn’t necessarily mean that the main parties would never again have overall control but there would be a much greater chance of them having to enter into coalitions capable of marginalising the hard right and the hard left. Only then could a significantly increased majority of us begin to feel that we have a stake in government and a better chance of influencing decisions especially when it comes to the issues that threaten us all. Richard Lancaster Tunbridge Wells
PEPPY SAYS...
MP has cut off world’s poorest So, Greg Clark voted to cut our international aid budget today, possibly pushing hundreds of thousands of the poorest people in the world towards death or further destitution. The Chancellor says it’s only until our own finances recover - tell that to the parents burying their children and to the families fleeing war and famine. Does Greg really think the fifth wealthiest nation making a saving of £4bn is more important that the lives of the poorest people on the planet. He should be ashamed of himself. He does not represent the values of most residents across the constituency - and I hope people will tell him so! Cllr Hugo Pound [Labour] Sherwood
Mr Clark should have kept his word Tunbridge Wells needs an MP who will keep their word. When Greg Clark stood for Parliament in 2019, he pledged to support the 0.7% target on aid spending. He has callously broken his promise and abandoned millions of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in our world. Votes in parliament have consequences. Greg Clark’s vote will have an enormous impact on the most vulnerable, costing lives, stopping girls from going to school and putting a wrecking ball through vital projects like tackling the climate crisis. The Liberal Democrats have supported international development spending for over
CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)
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Homes & Interiors
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Interiors
A day at the office
Why hot desking is the new way of working
Page 21
Floral tribute
We reveal why chintz is cool once again ... Page 25
: INSIDE al merci
Com
y t r e p o Pr E FEATUR
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LONSDALE GATE
PENHURST BUSINESS CENTRES BATTE R S EA | TO N B R I D G E | TU N B R I D G E WE LLS
01892 354090
enquiries@penhurst.co.uk lonsdalegate.co.uk @LonsdaleGate @LonsdaleGateBC
Lonsdale Gate Lonsdale Gardens Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NU
Lonsdale Gate Offers: . High-quality specification building in the heart of Tunbridge Wells . Offices to accommodate a range of businesses (1- 12 desks available) . Central location with local and regional transport links . Onsite parking and accessible location . Modern facilities - Fully-equipped gym and spacious meeting room, designed to keep the workforce happy . Advanced connectivity - High-speed internet access, VoIP access telephone system . Administration services . Access to a range of boutiques, cafes and restaurants . Unrivalled networking through co-located offices
Commercial Property Feature
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Homes & Interiors
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Office working revolution Shared or collaborative office spaces have started springing up in and around Tunbridge Wells. Lottie Bulmer finds out just what makes the area such an ideal place for people to work ...
L
ast week, the Times revealed plans by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to enter the commercial office space. The authority hopes to convert its town hall into a place where council workers will work alongside private companies. It is the latest in a trend of similar office spaces that have been established in the Borough and town over the last few years.
The group TW Works has even been set up by local business leaders to promote the town as a prime location for businesses to set up, or a place that is ideally suited for flexible working. We asked some of the town’s office providers what makes Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas such an ideal place in which to work, and what sort of facilities for business they offer.
BUSY BEES: The Hive’s site in Cranbrook and below in Flimwell
THE HIVE
Based in Cranbrook and Flimwell, the Hive offers somewhere you can work collaboratively and socialise, while having business support services on hand. Co-Director of The Hive, Stuart Smith told the Times why the small towns are prime location for hot-desking: “Cranbrook is a great town with free parking and lots of shops to visit. The Hive Cranbrook offers 10 hot desks and a meeting room and a zoom booth. We have our own dedicated super-fast broadband line with great firewall security. “Flimwell Park sits in 46 acres of woodland and the most amazing buildings on stilts. Flimwell offers a mixture of hot desk, retained desk and dedicated offices for between 1-4 people. “Together with a meeting room and zoom both it’s backed up with a 1GB Up/down Secure super-fast internet service making it the fastest Internet in the area. We hope to be able to offer 5GB in the next 12 months. Stuart told the Times that flexibility is at the heart of the Hive’s contract options: “The beauty of our business model is freedom, flexibility and secure wifi access which is very fast and no contracts.
“Customers can rent desk space by the hour. Half day or full day at rates as low as £7.50 per day. Customers do not have to spend 2.5 hours a day commuting to London, with the sheer costs of a ticket close to £5k per year, parking, and lunches and the stress of the commute. “With total flexibility and great value for money customers can work as often as they like at great locations at super low costs.
Factor “Our dedicated office space run is on a rolling monthly basis so there are no long term contracts and legal costs providing full flexibility. Hot deskers and retained desk can be booked at very short notice by the hour if required.” The real pull factor for The Hive is the internet speed, which Stuart adds is more reliable than being at home: “The Hive offers super-fast broadband 1gb at Flimwell, a very secure firewall technology with no contention ratios and down times. “Working at home you are always sharing your speed access with at least 50-60 other homes where you live and can encounter down times, outage and power loss. “Each customer has a free business profile, access to additional business services. We hold a free monthly Big Buzz Monthly networking event.” If that’s not enough of a reason to make The Hive your business’s home there are some great perks according to Stuart: “Customers have use of the first hour or our meeting rooms free of charge. At Cranbrook you can enjoy teas, coffees and a lovely healthy Greek lunch and a great ambience.” THE HIVE 19 Stone Street, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3HF, Tel; 0800 0219 111, Web; hivehubs.buzz
LONSDALE GATE
Penhurst has a varied portfolio of commercial and domestic properties in the town and Tonbridge. Maybe it is most recognisable in Tunbridge Wells for its newest commercial workspace development – Lonsdale Gate in Lonsdale Gardens. Managing Director of Penhurst, John Elkington explained why Tunbridge Wells was a location like no other for offices: “Tunbridge Wells has something for everyone. Excellent transport links, great business opportunities and some of the best private and public schools in the country. “There is plenty of green space, a royal history and a huge variety of restaurants within walking distance. The Ivy and Thackeray’s for example make excellent business lunch venues. He added the benefits of maintaining a physical workspace in the age of working from home.
Balance “A good work/life balance is important and having an office means that the two can be easily separated. “Having an office also means that networking and socialising with other business people is possible, both of which can be beneficial from a business and psychological perspective. “A business address can make a small business appear more professional whilst extra tools and resources are available to enable more efficient working.” It is a system which benefits a whole size range of organisations, he continued: “Smaller organisations are seeking a warm, friendly atmosphere as they have been very isolated over the past year. “They are also more likely to require the telephone answering service. Larger organisations require a professional welcome for clients and a
HIGH PROFILE: Lonsdale Gate in Tunbridge Wells has modern and contemporary office spaces (above, middle and below)
high-profile image to reflect the business. “Larger organisations also require multiple offices whereas smaller businesses like to be assured that there is potential space should they wish to expand.” The jewel in Penhurst’s crown is Lonsdale Gate which is a unique space. John adds why this building is so desirable for the town’s businesses: “Within the building we offer gym
and shower facilities, fully equipped meeting rooms and an excellent front of house team. “Lonsdale Gate boasts 45 newly refurbished serviced offices in the heart of Tunbridge Wells just a five-minute walk from the mainline station and numerous bus stops. “Tenants have 24/7 access, a secure gated car park, the option of a tailored telephone answering service and fantastic networking opportunities.”
LONSDALE GATE Address; Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NU, Tel; 01892 354090, web; penhurst.co.uk
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Homes & Interiors
THE SOUTHBOROUGH CENTRE The Southborough Centre pays homage to Tunbridge Wells’ history through its location in a converted Victorian Warehouse. Michael Churchward, co-director of The Southborough Centre tells the Times why the building is the ideal place to host your business: “The Southborough Centre is unique in that it’s a converted Victorian warehouse, which gives it a character all of its own. We also allow our partner businesses to customise their offices to reflect their needs and their brands. “We’ve very flexible with this: if a company needs more or less space we will look to reconfigure the units so they get the right office for their changing needs.
‘These fabulous schools also mean we have a continual influx of young families, which means lots of talented, experienced employees’ “We’re also very affordable – we do everything we can to keep our rents low to support our partner businesses – with our low monthly charges including extras such as Wi-Fi and use of our two meeting rooms.” The Southborough Centre is located within walking distance of the town centre places it as an ideal “A huge plus that all our customers mention is the free on-street parking nearby – something that is hard to find in central Tunbridge Wells. “We’re also uniquely positioned between Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, as well
Commercial Property Feature
as being very accessible for the satellite villages; this means we’re a great solution for businesses with staff from across the local area. And with regular buses stopping outside, we’re also a great option for teams who don’t all drive or who are looking for more sustainable solutions. “Tunbridge Wells is a brilliant place to work, rest and play. It’s got a vibrant local economy, with lots of dynamic businesses trading with one another as well as attracting and servicing national and international clients. Stuart added the centre has links to Tunbridge Wells’ rich support network for local businesses: “It’s a very supportive business environment, with lots of collaboration between companies who, on paper, might look like competitors, and lots of older hands sharing their expertise with start-ups to help them get off to a flying start. “There are other, more formal, support structures in place as well, such as Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, as well as the proactive support developed by the local Chambers of Commerce and councils to help businesses of all shapes and sizes, particularly through the challenges of the last 16 months. “There’s also a really rich recruitment pool to find the talent you need to support your business as it grows. We’ve got some of the best school leavers in the country, thanks to our fantastic local schools. “These fabulous schools also mean we have a continual influx of young families, which means lots of talented, experienced employees – many of them with backgrounds in top London firms – looking for local companies with whom they can share and develop
MICHAEL CHURCHWARD
their expertise in return for a bit of flexibility to support their families. “And you’ve got everything on your doorstep. You’ve got all the amenities you need to run errands during your lunch hour; wonderful cafes and restaurants for meeting friends and clients – many of them in the picturepostcard setting of The Pantiles; great sports facilities to exercise before or after work; and plenty of accessible green spaces to get some fresh air and clear your head.”
Brainstorming The Southborough Centre champions the productivity which the collaborative working environment can create, Stuart continued: “This was summed up recently by one of our clients who has been successfully working from home during the pandemic. Last week they worked in their office with a number of their team for the first time since last March. “At the end of the day they told us they had made more progress in finding solutions for one of their clients in one hour of face-to-face brainstorming than they had in months of video calls. few workplace changes caused by the pandemic that will remain for some time, but in a positive way. “Many organisations have realised that staff can work effectively remotely, be it from home or from a smaller satellite office,” says Sheree. “There isn’t the need to have all staff working from a large office Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm, companies can structure weeks in 2 v 3 format so some staff are in the office 3 days and home based 2 days each week.”
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
“We’ve also taken on some new clients who technically can work from home but have found it very difficult: a couple have young families, one simply doesn’t have enough room for both him and his wife to work alongside one another comfortably. “Just because you can work from home, doesn’t mean it’s the best solution for your business or your home life. “All businesses now need to show that their premises are Covid-secure; we’ve taken away most of the stress of managing that with the measures we have introduced. “We also know that a lot of our clients’ teams aren’t planning on working in the office all the time. It’s no longer a simple equation of one desk per team member. “A lot of spreadsheets have been created to work out how many desks a company needs if staff come in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days a week – and that’s across the board, for SMEs and large corporations. “What is different for the larger corporations, however, is that many of
their teams don’t want to travel back to London. The Southborough Centre is pulling interest from businesses from afar, Stuart told us: “We’re getting enquiries from London corporations whose staff want the collaboration of working with their colleagues, but without the stress of the commute, especially with the uncertainties of coronavirus continuing. “They’re therefore looking for satellite offices so that staff can enjoy the double benefits of working with colleagues but staying local, only going into London occasionally. “The pandemic has made a lot more people more environmentally aware than before; we’ve noticed that we have more people cycling into The Southborough Centre now, and have installed extra cycle racks to support that. Fortunately, we installed a shower as part of a big refurbishment a couple of years ago – it’s now getting more use than ever!”
SOUTHBOROUGH CENTRE No.1, The warehouse, Draper St, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells TN4 0PG, Tel; 01892 619846, Web; southboroughcentre.co.uk
OFFICE IN A BOX M Space are based in Longford House (Left and below)
Investing
M SPACE OFFICES
Based in Longford House in Tunbridge Wells, M Space likes to keep it simple with its ‘Office in a Box’ system. This means your office will come equipped with everything you will need and leases are available from a three month minimum period. Sheree Dawton Managing Director of M Space told the Times why the town beats London for hosting all your
business requirements: “It’s a combination of good road and rail links, access to green spaces and lifestyle facilities, local recruitment skill set, an ever-growing vibrant local business community and unique architecture, all without a London price tag. The pandemic has obviously changed the way people work, does Sheree think that the change is permanent? She says that she believes there are a
Sheree adds that she thinks large organisations will continue to sell off office space as they don’t need such large premises: “If there isn’t the need for large offices in the near future, companies will continue to sell off premises whilst ensuring staff can work remotely. “I think this will lead to an increase in companies investing in smaller, regional offices instead of having a large city-based type building.” Sheree says there is a huge range of benefits to socialising with your colleagues: “There are many advantages of having a physical office away from your home. Social interaction with colleagues, idea sharing, creative
inspiration from the team around you, time management whilst having a clear separation between work and home allowing you to switch off and relax when not at work.” M Space has a range of unique selling points making them different to other office spaces in the town: “Flexible lease agreements from just three months, plug in and work accessibility, spaces from one desk to twenty, access to on site meeting
rooms and breakout/coffee areas, pricing from just £249 per desk and a prestigious town centre address. Sheree confirms the benefits which M Space can offer to suit both larger organisations and small to medium size enterprises: “Flexibility of agreement, access to leisure facilities, effective and fast networking and WIFI, large, bright office space, are all the amenities we can offer here at M Space.”
M SPACE OFFICES 19 Mount Ephraim Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1EN, Tel; 01246 225935, Web; mspaceoffices.co.uk
A NEW GREEN WORLD OF WORK AWAITS YOU! Join our woodland cowork community The Hive at Flimwell Park With easy access just off the A21 Hot desks (ultimate flexibility), retained desks (1-4 days per week) or dedicated desks (full time) Private boutique offices Meeting room & zoom booth Use of Samsung Diamond monitors Smart desks with integrated phone charger and USB ports, work standing up or sitting down at the touch of a button High speed private internet accounts Bilateral up / down 1 gig lease line for super stable internet connectivity Free car parking Kitchenette in each hub
To book your tour or for any other enquiries call 0800 0219 111 or visit hivehubs.buzz and complete our contact form
Healthy Greek Catering from The Hive in Cranbrook with 24hrs notice for working lunches and team get-together days Sustainable development in a 46-acre woodland setting with nature trail Built on stilts and accessed via a boardwalk Light contemporary space powered by solar energy Highest standard energy performance Electric car charging points The Hive also has a hub in Cranbrook town centre offering coworking studio, meeting room, zoom booth, coffee lounge, Greek kitchen and licensed bar Ask a member of our team how you can work across both locations on a flexible basis AS FEATURED IN
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Homes & Interiors
Timeless charm F Why chintz has become the height of chic again
With a shift towards heritage designs centred around florals and nature, chintz is enjoying a revival, says Sam Wylie-Harris
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AR from a chance encounter, chintz is back on the scene. Even the name has a lovely ring to it. Chintzy, ritzy, she’s the grand old dame of florals and vintage furnishings – and very much in vogue. Originally from India, chintz (derived from the Hindi word ‘chint’) started life in the early-1600s as a glazed calico, often printed with oversized flowers. An intricate play on pattern, Portuguese and Dutch traders brought swathes of the stuff to Europe and by the late-1700s, such was its surge in popularity, English mills were producing European style florals on cotton cloth. By the 1900s, the Victorians coveted chintz as much as their gin palaces. However, its grand scale prints fell out of fashion after the first world war, resurfaced in the 1940s and ebbed until the 1960s – when Jackie Kennedy famously renovated The White House and featured a >
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Homes & Interiors
bedroom in ‘orange blossom chintz’. The pendulum swung again in the Eighties, and its country charm status was sealed with ruffles and frills galore, as we flounced through the beautiful world of Laura Ashley. Having thrived for years, the iconic brand had to close its doors last year – but it’s back big time too, and a partnership with Next and a new collection has reintroduced some of Laura Ashley’s best-loved signature prints.
Laura Ashley Wisteria Pencil Pleat Curtains, from £60-£120, Next
Today, chintz is turning heads again, both in fashion and florals. “Chintz interiors are having a revival, with more time spent at home we’re seeking out stimulation and interest in our interiors like never before,” says Wil Law, partner and home design stylist, John Lewis. “Highly decorative patterns on walls and curtains, embellishments on every furnishing, and shapely forms in furniture all liven the home, boosting its visual interest and tactility.”
John Lewis & Partners Fougere Wallpaper – Dusty Rose, £40 per roll; Classic Bobbin Console Table – Grey, £179; Bubble Ceramic Table Lamp, £62.50 (was £125), Moritz Velvet Dining Chair, £259 (other items from a selection), John Lewis “Chintz also celebrates natural motifs that connect us to the outdoors in a different way to the ever popular houseplant trend,” says Law. “Ditsy florals, leaf trails and animal prints are at the heart of chintz patterns and feel very English countryside. “Chintz has that English charm, often seen in National Trust or English Heritage properties and, as we’re unable to travel as freely, perhaps we’re leaning into interior inspiration closer to home.”
John Lewis & Partners Juliette Wallpaper – Multi, £40 per roll; Selva Organic Cotton Double Duvet Cover Set – Multi, from £60-£90, John Lewis
Beyond the literal definition of chintz, relating to floral patterns, Law suggests the broader interior style that captures its character has a relaxed feel, and prioritises comfort. “It’s all about sinking into the deep, cosy sofas that are swamped in cushions and throws, and sleeping in beds that are layered with soft and charming textiles,” Law notes.
English Weekend Petal Stripe Duvet Cover Set, from £10; Vintage Floral Duvet Cover Set, from £10; Check Throw, £15; Pink Velvet Cocktail Chair, £75; Clover Cushion, £7; Berber Cushion, £10; Diamond Macrame Cushion, £12, George Home (available from late July) If you’re beginning to work chintz into your home, first and foremost, Law says to choose some characterful patterns on your soft furnishings, and begin to layer these. “For a more contemporary take on the trend, don’t go for the matching look. Instead pick distinct patterns and ensure you’re mixing different scales of design, from ditzy to broad, so that each can make its own statement, yet as a collection look harmonious,” Law suggests. “Alternatively, for an easier to live with and arguably fresher chintz look, ensure you’re mixing in some block colours to set off the patterns and provide visual relief. Combinations like a patterned chintz lampshade against a bright wall colour, or a decorative wallpaper broken by a rich velvet sofa, can look joyful and bold, celebrating the charm of chintz, without feeling themed.”
Faded Glamour Vintage Green Wallpaper, £120 per roll (other items part of room set), Woodchip & Magnolia Along with complementary furnishings, floral, chintzy wallpapers add
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
texture and depth, and there’s a style to suit everyone. “We’ve definitely noticed a shift in interiors tastes and trends in recent years, with a move towards heritage designs centred around florals and nature,” says Nina Tarnowski, founder & designer for Woodchip & Magnolia. “Period-style dramas like Bridgerton and The Crown have fuelled a resurgence in vintage styles, while trends like Cottagecore, a comforting blend of nostalgia and nature, have also soared in popularity. “For an understated approach to the chintz
‘Wallpaper the lower half of the walls and paint the upper half or you could go for a full-on Eighties revival’ trend, try introducing a statement wallpaper across all four walls in a calming hue, creamy whites or pale pinks work well and off set against brighter accessories for a pop of colour,” suggests Tarnowski. “If wallpaper across all four walls feels slightly daunting, wallpaper the lower half of the walls and paint the upper half or you could go for a full-on Eighties revival and opt for wallpaper borders instead!”
Lorene Armchair – Rosewater, £839, (£713 Soho Home members), Soho Home
For a bolder take on chintz, try working striking floral fabrics into your wallpaper scheme. “Choose a complementary pattern and upholster an accent chair or statement sofa in your living room, or if you’re decorating a smaller room, install a patterned roman blind or pair of curtains. “For an old-meets-new scheme, use contrasting vintage inspired floral wallpaper, with a modern abstract pattern across your upholstery,” says Tarnowski.
Hampi Mint Cushion, £85, Tatie Lou
Beyond the flounce-filled heyday of the Eighties, Tarnowski says she’s noticed a shift in tastes and colour palettes, with the new generation of chintz lovers not afraid to mix things up, such as powdery pinks pairing beautifully with masculine dark greens. “Indeed – greens, blues and yellows are all on the rise, offering a blend of masculine and feminine that suits today’s gender-fluid generation,” she says.
Pavilion Gardens in Sage Green, £120 per roll, Woodchip & Magnolia
Ben Stokes, founder & interior designer for KAGU Interiors, agrees: “Over the last year, interior tastes have shifted, with many homeowners shopping for vintage pieces or embracing retro trends with a modern twist – chintz being one of them.”
Delicate Bloom Lampshade, £180; Chelsea Table Lamp Base, £189, Mind The Gap “To incorporate this trend into your home, choose accessories in clashing vintage pattern, it’s an understated take on chintz that will keep your overall scheme relatively modern.” Stokes says rugs are a great place to start: “Use this as a base for your colour scheme and tie in additional patterns with the same colour palette, through cushions and lampshades.”
Garrat Dark Chestnut 4 Drawer Console Table by Laura Ashley, £575 (other pieces from a selection), Next
“Finish your scheme with rustic style furniture; an oversized chest or low coffee table will work in a living room setting, whilst a standing wardrobe or vintage clothes rail are great additions for the bedroom,” adds Stokes.
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Food & Culture
We will rock you Le Cabaret Rock returns to the Assembly Hall
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On the menu...
The talented team at STEAK restaurant reveal the essential ingredients of their success Page 30
& h t l a e H g n i e b l l We TURE FEA
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Food & Culture
arts
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
“Le Cabaret Rock will take audiences on a rock star-studded journey...” Next week The London Cabaret Society resumes its residency at the Assembly Hall. Eileen Leahy finds out what’s in store for their latest series of sensational shows
O
N July 30 Tunbridge Wells’ Assembly Hall Theatre will welcome back the London Cabaret Society for the next two shows of its special residency collaboration which started earlier this year. The theatre hosted the kings and queens of the cabaret performance company back in May with their dazzling show Le Cabaret Fantastique which was a sell-out - and certainly brought Tunbridge Wells back to life after so many difficult months. And now the good news is that next weekend the group, which is made up of talented West End singers, dancers and acrobats, will stage Le Cabaret Rock on July 30 which will then be followed by another exclusive show: Cabaret 007 the following month on August 28. And although the theatre can now welcome more visitors through its doors, it will still be ensuring that the correct social distancing measures are still in place. An Assembly Hall spokesperson told us: “These shows are unique to
Tunbridge Wells and begin what is set to be a completely fresh and ongoing night of entertainment for the town. “As shown with aplomb by Le Cabaret Fantastique in May each show is set to be its own special and immersive night, set up in amazing cabaret style with tables right in the middle of the action. Expect an incredible show featuring some of the best cabaret, burlesque, dance and drag there is on offer!
“This show really is truly thrilling, exciting and exhilarating and will leave you singing all the way home”
Fabulous “Le Cabaret Rock will take audiences on a rock star studded journey with amazingly powerful vocals from the finest West End singers, performing the most iconic rock classics of all time.” In addition to the singing there will also be fire dancers and acrobats to watch and the evening will be hosted by drag queen extraordinaire Miss Demeanour – or Miss D as she’s more commonly known. “I’m absolutely thrilled I’m coming back to the Assembly Hall,” she tells us.
“The London Cabaret Society have got the most jam-packed evening of entertainment for you, there’s going to be a bit of everything, singers, contortionists, people balancing on each other and of course, ME! What more could you want darling? The last show we had was an absolute ball!” London Cabaret Society Director Lisa Marie Holmes also shares her excitement: “Le Cabaret Rock is the ultimate spectacle and not to be missed! It really has it all, with every rock icon classic from Queen to Bonny Tyler, breath taking vocals from the West End’s finest, amazing musicians, spell-binding circus acts and the
Marvellous Drag host Miss Demeanour to bring you nothing but laughs, fun - while ensuring that the drinks keep flowing along the way! A truly thrilling, exciting and exhilarating show to leave you singing all the way home!” And Lisa Marie also hints at what audiences can expect for next month’s show on August 28: “Cabaret 007 combines the world of cabaret and the silver the screen to makes this glamorous event the highlight of anybody’s year! Bond fans will be thrilled to enter the world of Casino Royal! “You can enjoy a game of roulette on arrival, take a photo with our very own James Bond and
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
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A noteworthy concert… As part of the Hever Festival’s summer programme, this Sunday (July 25) sees an impressive line-up of talented musicians taking part in an exciting reworking of Bach’s classic Goldberg Variations
The Bong Girls! Then sit down to a show of iconic music such as Diamonds Are Forever and Live and Let Die, performed by from award winning vocalists! “Action packed performances such as astonishing stunts from James Bond himself and
Variations has been described by critics as ‘a surprising and beautifully executed rendition … detailed and gracious, but also sweeping and noble, and full of ‘air’ and warmth’. Ahead of the musicians performing at 8.15pm they will be participating in a pre-performance talk at 7.30pm
FESTIVAL Hever is to welcome renowned musicians
BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS RESTORATIONS AND NEW AND BUILDS NEW BUILDS “For classical music lovers this is an event not to be missed”
“The London Cabaret Society have got the most jam-packed evening of entertainment for you” the devilish drag host Miss D to bring you some villainous fun and an evil laugh or two! Don’t hesitate to dress to impress and truly become a part of it all! This fabulous cocktail of a show will leave your shaken not stirred!” Oh, and finally the Assembly Hall spokesperson adds that the suggested (but not necessary) dress code for this month’s London Cabaret Society show is ‘Rock Star Glam’. There’s also a fabulous prize for best dressed of the night! So, what are you waiting for? Full details and tickets for both shows are available on the theatre’s website assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
that evening where they will discuss how the work came about and talk about their careers thus far. For classical music lovers this is an event not to be missed… Tickets cost from £25 per person and can be ordered via www. heverfestival.co.uk
THIS COMING weekend Hever Festival Theatre will welcome a trio of respected and incredibly talented classical musicians who will be putting on the first live performance of a recently recorded transcription of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Goldberg Variations. On the evening of Sunday July 25 violinist David Juritz’s interpretation of Bach’s masterpiece, which he transcribed for classical guitarist Craig Ogden (right), will be showcased exclusively in the Two
BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS
Sisters Theatre at Hever. The two world famous musicians who have played for some of the world’s most famous orchestras will be joined on stage by cellist Tim Hugh, winner of the Tchaikovsky Competition and principal cellist for the Royal Opera House.
Talent Although not yet showcased to the general public, Juritz’s new work inspired by Bach’s Goldberg
BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS
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Food & Culture
food
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
“When it comes to sourcing and serving the best steaks around we know exactly what we’re doing”
Tunbridge Wells is well known for its vibrant independent foodie scene and the latest restaurant to join it is STEAK. Every couple of weeks its head chef Andre Woodward and his team (below) will give advice on how to source, prepare and cook the perfect cut…
S
TEAK is One Warwick Park Hotel’s new flagship restaurant. Located on Chapel Place, away from the bustle of the town centre and surrounded by a cluster of artisan shops and cool bars it’s certainly enjoyed brisk trade since it opened in April.
“As you’d expect from its name STEAK specialises in quality cuts which range from ribeye, sirloin, rump and filet” CUTTING IT Andre Woodward (middle) and his team
It is headed up by renowned chef Andre Woodward and his talented team. As you’d expect from its name, STEAK specialises in quality cuts which range from ribeye, sirloin, rump and filet according to supply
and demand but it also boasts an excellent variety of other delicious dishes. Peruse its tempting menu and you’ll find treats such as panko crusted halloumi, crispy fried squid, pan-fried smoky potato gnocchi and even a vegan burger with roasted cauliflower steak – which has proved to be just as popular as its carnivore counterparts. But having said that when it comes to sourcing and serving the best steaks around this restaurant knows exactly what it’s doing, using Southborough Butchers. And that is why its head chef Andre will regularly give Times readers his top tips on everything from selecting to searing to ensure you have the tastiest steaks – when you can’t get out to savour STEAK’s delicious dishes of course…. Here are the seasoned chef’s top tips for creating a mouth-watering homemade steak:
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
meat, located directly behind the loin. It is very important to ensure the steak is well rested. Fillet steak is a remarkably tender steak, which is from the lower middle of the back, forming part of the sirloin. It is so tender as it is the muscle that does the least work.
FIND THE PERFECT BUTCHER: It can be challenging to find a butcher who takes great care in the quality of their meat. If the steak isn’t tender, it won’t be enjoyable regardless of how you cook it or what it’s seasoned with. At STEAK, we use Southborough Butchers, a traditional butcher, only stocking free-range meats of fantastic quality, all sourced locally CHOOSE THE CUT OF STEAK RIGHT FOR YOU: There are plenty of different cuts to choose from but our personal favourites are rib-eye, sirloin, and fillet steaks…. Rib-eye steak comes from just behind the shoulder, the rib section. It is well-marbled and therefore, very flavoursome. Sirloin steak is a delicious cut of
COOK YOUR STEAK CORRECTLY: This sounds simple, but it’s a common mistake. Here are our tips for cooking your steak… Leave your steak to rest at room temperature for an hour before grilling it, this will ensure your meat cooks evenly. Pat your meat dry before you season and cook it. Season like your life depends on it! We suggest using rock salt. Make sure the pan is very hot before cooking. The fattier the cut of beef, the hotter you will want the pan to ensure the fat renders down. These are a few simple steps on how to make a mouth-watering homemade steak. If you are looking to completely unwind, enjoy a relaxing evening with steak cooked to perfection, then why not join us at STEAK. Open Wednesday – Sunday. Email info@steaktunbridgewells. co.uk
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Six sensational reds to sip in the sunshine... From weekday wines to something special for the weekend, these foodfriendly reds offer a range of lip-smacking flavours, says Sam Wylie-Harris mandilaira, a bold red variety from the Aegean islands in the south. Beguiling from word go, there’s a lovely floral lift as the wine draws you in with fragrant black fruits, bramble and fresh herbs, then rewards with a trail of raspberries, blackberries and expressive red fruits. Herbaceous, complex and utterly divine, it’s a natural partner with summer vegetable moussaka.
WHETHER it’s a sweep of summertime fruits, a beam of blackberry or ripple of raspberry, sometimes nothing beats a radiant red – especially when you swirl the glass and a scented bouquet is revealed. Sun-kissed, beautifully ripe and round, we’ve selected some of the softest, food-friendly reds for summer – from medium bodied with fresh acidity and fine tannins, to ripe, fruity new world styles. These will chime nicely with your colourful al fresco spreads and barbecues… 1. FAUSTINO VII RIOJA 2019, Spain, £8, Tesco You have to tip your hat to this iconic label, that’s been at the top of the Rioja wine ladder since day dot. Rembrandt’s 1641 portrait still characterises the brand and their entrylevel tempranillo shows plenty of verve. Immediately likeable, wild strawberry aromas with sweet notes from barrel ageing draw you in, with a smooth, fruity palate of ripe red fruits, soft spice and gentle hint of oak. 2. TTD ZWEIGELT 2018, Austria, £8, Sainsbury’s Zweigelt – Austria’s most widely planted red – may not roll off the tongue, but if you have a taste for adventure it’s worth exploring this vibrant, juicy variety, which can be enjoyed lightly chilled. Fun and fruit-driven, it weaves together morello cherry and plummy black fruits with a touch of spice, and merest hint of minty freshness backed by fresh acidity. with summer slaw.
3. CHÂTEAU MONCONSEIL-GAZIN 2018, BLAYE CÔTES DE BORDEAUX, France, £9.75, The Wine Society The modern face of Bordeaux, your friends will feel completely at ease when they’re handed a glass of this fruit forward, velvety smooth claret, that’s expressive and approachable. Merlot dominant, there’s cabernet sauvignon and malbec in the mix to plump up the fleshy palate. A little bit of oak ageing gives structure, with lovely woody notes interweaving with blackberry fruit, wild herbs and baking spice. A top drop with ovenroasted tomato tart and mixed salad. 4. M&S FOUND XINOMAVRO MANDILARIA 2019, Greece, £9.50, Marks & Spencer stores A delicious discovery with a drink-me-now character, xinomavro is one of Greece’s most popular red grapes (from the mountainous north), and this unoaked style has been deftly blended with
5. THE BLACK PIG SHIRAZ 2018, MCLAREN VALE, Australia, £11.99, Virgin Wines A rich, succulent shiraz from a region prized for its full-flavoured reds, sumptuous blackberry and black cherry fruit is artfully wrapped around exotic spice, complemented by darker plummy tones and smooth, rounded tannins. Perfumed and polished with a long, velvety, spicefuelled finish, it’s your quintessential barbecue red to fire-up burgers, bangers and grilled peppered steak. 6. LUIGI BOSCA PINOT NOIR 2020, MENDOZA, Argentina, £16.49, Bancroft Wines If your go-to malbec has lost its mojo, this seductive pinot noir from a meticulous producer (Luigi Bosca are cited as one of Argentina’s best kept secrets) comes highly recommended. Beautifully intense on the nose, there’s some South American punch to this pinot with great concentration and a thrilling mix of exuberant, ripe red fruits – strawberry, raspberry, kirsch and violets, with uplifting acidity keeping it fresh and elegant but with power and structure. A beautiful wine which can be served lightly chilled.
Food & Culture
food
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
How cooking saved Candice Brown: “It’s just my way of doing things...” The former Bake Off winner talks to Katie Wright about the battle to keep her pub going and finding comfort in the kitchen
I
HAPPY COOKING Candice Brown has released her new cookbook
T’S the end of a long, frustrating day, during which Candice Brown had to contend with train delays, a schlep across London on foot to reach her car, and a traffic-clogged, two-hour drive to The Green Man – the pub she owns with her brother, Ben. “I’m just watching one of the members of staff walking in and two girls are dancing,” Brown tells me on the phone, welling up with pride and relief as she surveys the happy scene in the Bedfordshire boozer, a few weeks after pubs reopened following lockdown restrictions easing in England. “At one point last year, we didn’t have enough money to pay [the staff]. We had £416 in the bank, we were thinking, ‘What are we going to do?’ But we kept going and we’ve done it.” Trying to keep the siblings’ business afloat was just one of the challenges the 36-year-old 2016 Great British Bake Off winner, has faced during the pandemic. “The first and second lockdowns, I was here [in Eversholt] on my own, which had a big impact on me. It’s a very small village and when it goes dark, it is pitch black and it is silent. Then I decided, I need some noise, I need something, otherwise I’m going to actually lose my mind.” After separating from Liam Macauley, her husband of two years, Brown moved in with friend Lauren Mahon, founder of the GIRLvsCANCER community, and now splits her time between their shared flat in Hackney and her lodgings above the pub. Having previously spoken about her experiences of depression and PTSD following a traumatic incident at a hospital, last year, the former PE teacher was diagnosed with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; a condition that often goes undetected in women). “It presents itself so differently in
women and in girls,” says Brown, who is nicknamed Bumble because of her tendency to buzz about and flit between projects. “It can be lack of attention, it can be a hundred things happening in your brain, it can be talking and completely losing your train of thought.” How is she doing now, nearly a year-and-a-half into the pandemic? “Quite honestly, I’m mentally in quite a bad place, but I’m learning to deal with it in different ways. I’m seeing a therapist, which is helping, but obviously I think he sometimes needs to go backwards to move forward.” She’s keen to point out that people
‘You see the pub busy and that makes it all worth it’ with ‘invisible’ illnesses “can still achieve and you can still succeed. It’s OK to go away and cry and go, ‘Oh my god, I am literally at breaking point’, but still on the surface look OK.” At the same time, Brown admits she sometimes struggles with selfcompassion, while having an enormous amount of empathy for others. “When other people are talking, I would never say to them, ‘You should be ashamed of your mental health’, or, ‘You should be ashamed of asking for help’. It’s quite ironic, because sometimes I still feel huge amounts of shame, which is probably why I’m so terrified about the book coming out.” That book is Happy Cooking, in which Brown writes candidly about her struggles and how she retreats to the kitchen in times of need (“I cook and I bake when I’m happy, sad, stressed, angry…”), and reveals the recipes that
help her cope, whether it’s a comforting, gooey cheese and sausage toastie, a nourishing chicken tray bake, nostalgia-inducing angel cake, or Swedish cinnamon buns made for sharing. “As I say very openly in the acknowledgements – sorry, I get quite emotional,” Brown says, welling up again. “It’s been the hardest year of my life. I managed to put pen to paper and I’m so proud of that, and to be able to share something that’s been so difficult for me.” With the book, she hopes to encourage others to discover their own ways of coping, whether food-related or not. “We all know somebody – or we are that person – that maybe still struggles with mental health, and if cooking is your way of dealing with it, or reading or walking or running or exercise, then share those little things. “My little, weird, sweary Happy Cooking book, it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it’s just my way of doing things and if people go, ‘OK, I’m going to give that a go’, then that will make me very, very happy.” As for now? The courageous cook’s got a pub full of hungry punters and the Friday-night rush waiting. Having grown up with pub-owning parents, she was never under the illusion that being a landlady would be easy, and insists the “insane work” is also immensely rewarding. “You see [the pub] busy, you get people saying they love what you’ve done and they’ve really enjoyed the food… that makes it all worth it,” Brown says, laughing as she thinks back to when she and her brother took on The Green Man back in 2019. “We knew it’d be hard work, but we never factored in a global pandemic, that’s for sure. You couldn’t write it, could you?”
Candice Brown’s goat’s cheese, smoked salmon and asparagus filo tart Ingredients: (serves 4-6) n 6–8 sheets of readymade filo pastry n 50g unsalted butter, melted n 250g fine asparagus n 5 eggs n 100ml double cream n 100ml whole milk n Small bunch of fresh flat-leaf parsley n 200g baby spinach n 5 spring onions, trimmed and finely chopped n 200g smoked salmon n 250g soft goat’s cheese n Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C fan (180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4). 2. Brush a 25cm flan or quiche tin with melted butter and then lay in the first layer of filo pastry.
Brush this with melted butter and lay in the second layer, then brush with more melted butter. Repeat with the filo and butter until there are no gaps in the pastry, the tin is covered, and you have lots of lovely jagged edges sticking up. You will have to arrange the sheets at different angles – about six to eight sheets of pastry should work. Brush the last layer of pastry with butter and bake for eight to 10 minutes until the filo starts to turn golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
pepper together in a jug. Finely chop the parsley and stir through.
3. Bend the asparagus spears until they snap – this is the bit that is too woody to eat – then blanch for two minutes in boiling water.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the egg is just set with a slight wobble and the filo is golden brown – if it starts to catch, simply cover it with foil.
4. Mix the eggs, cream, milk and some salt and
7. Serve warm on its own or with a heap of salad.
5. Layer up the spinach, asparagus and spring onions in the baked filo pastry case and tear the smoked salmon over the top. Pour over the egg mixture and top with slices of the goat’s cheese. Very carefully transfer the filled filo pastry case to the oven. (You may find it easier to put the flan tin on a flat baking tray and pour the egg mixture into the pastry while it is in the oven – just be careful not to burn yourself.)
VARIETY | FRI 30 JUL | 8.00pm
COMEDY | WED 22 SEP | 8.00pm
COMEDY | THU 04 NOV | 7.30pm
COMEDY | WED 17 + THU 18 NOV | 7.30pm
COMEDY | SAT 29 JAN 22 | 8.00pm
MUSIC | SAT 14 AUG | 7.30pm
assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk T U N B R I D G E W E LLS for full details and to book tickets visit our website
Food & Culture
health & wellbeing
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Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Keeping your cool in the sunshine… AFTER a dreary few months of British weather doing what it does best, the clouds have finally parted and we have spent most of the last week basking in the glorious heatwave. While it is great to soak up the sun and as we can’t travel to far off lands for our summer holidays, it may be tempting to spend your annual leave lounging in the back garden, we have to be savvy with sun safety. Amanda Finch from Cancer Research UK has compiled a list of top sun myths and debunked them one by one for you to enjoy the heatwave without harm… 1. MYTH: I can tan through a window or glass. EVIDENCE: Indoors you’re mostly protected from sunburn, but some UV rays can get through glass. So if you spend lots of time driving or sitting in a conservatory when the sun is strong, then long-term you might be at risk of damage from UVA rays. If you’re stuck by the window, protect your skin with clothes and sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and 4 or 5 stars. 2. MYTH: I need as much sun as possible to get enough vitamin D
EVIDENCE: We all need a bit of sun to make vitamin D. How much sun will vary from person to person – people with lighter skin tones only need a brief sun exposure, while people with darker skin tones may need a little more time for the body to make enough vitamin D. Whatever your skin tone,
‘A tan is a sign your skin is trying to protect itself from sun damage’ there’s no need to sunbathe or risk sunburn in order to get vitamin D. Once your body has made enough, it’ll start to break down any extra vitamin D that’s made, so spending even longer in the sun won’t help. Plus, you can get vitamin D from your diet or supplements. 3. MYTH: Tanned skin is a sign of good health EVIDENCE: No. A tan is a sign that your skin is trying to protect itself from the damage the sun is doing. Any pink or redness, tenderness or itching after being
in the sun, even if your skin isn’t raw or blistered, is a clear sign that the genetic material (DNA) in your skin cells has been damaged. This kind of damage can build up over time and cause skin cancer. Excess sun exposure is the number one cause of skin cancers, including melanoma – the most serious form. In fact, an estimated 8 out of 10 cases of melanoma skin cancer are linked to excess sun or UV light exposure. 4. MYTH: I can’t get sunburnt on cloudy days EVIDENCE: Yes you can – UV rays can go through clouds! The UV Index can help you check how strong the sun will be on a given day. If it’s 3 or above the sun’s strong enough to cause sunburn, especially in people who burn easily and/or have fair skin. You can find the UV index on most weather forecasts, on your phone weather app or on The Met Office website. 5. MYTH: People with darker skin don’t get sunburnt EVIDENCE: Anyone can get sunburnt – including people with darker or brown skin. But
SOAKING UP SOME RAYS Spending time sunbathing comes with its risks
Food & Culture
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
your risk of getting sunburnt will depend on your skin type. Generally in the UK people with fairer skin are at higher risk of sunburn whereas people with darker skin are more likely to have low vitamin D – so it’s a good idea to get to know your skin and how easily you burn to know when you’ll need to protect yourself from the sun.
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SEASIDE SUN Sunbathers descend on Brighton Beach on a hot summer’s day
6. MYTH: SPF in my makeup is enough EVIDENCE: Sadly, not. Even if your makeup label claims to offer sun protection, you’d need to apply several times the normal amount of foundation to get even close to the level of protection stated on the bottle. You’re also highly unlikely to reapply makeup regularly enough, so using makeup with SPF is not the same as putting on sunscreen. 7. MYTH: The sun in the UK isn’t strong enough to give me sunburn EVIDENCE: It can be – especially between mid-March and mid-October. It’s easy to underestimate how strong the sun can be here in the UK and get caught out. Did you know that up to 9 in 10 cases of melanoma skin cancer could be prevented by enjoying the sun safely? During this time, it’s best to check the UV Index and if it’s 3 or more, you may need to take sun precautions of shade, clothing and sunscreen. Also think about the ‘shadow rule’, if your shadow is shorter than your height, this means that the sun’s UV rays could be strong. 8. MYTH: Sunbeds are a safer way to tan EVIDENCE: Nope, sunbeds cause skin cancer and there’s no such thing as a safe tan. Did you know that using sunbeds can increase your risk of melanoma skin cancer by 16-20 per cent?A tan is a sign that your body is trying to repair the damage caused by UV rays. 9. MYTH: The sun is strongest when it’s hottest EVIDENCE: Surprisingly, not. The heat of the sun doesn’t come from its skin-damaging UV rays.
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UV rays are always strongest when the sun is highest in the sky, which in the UK summer is between 11am and 3pm, although it can be different in other countries. Temperature varies more and tends to be highest slightly later. So if you want to get out and enjoy the nice weather later in the day when it’s still warm, the risk of burning won’t be as high. 10. MYTH: I’ve been sunburnt before, so there’s no point in protecting myself now – the damage is already done EVIDENCE: Not true. Damage can build up over time and it’s never too late to protect yourself. Your body has sophisticated repair mechanisms that can fix some of the damage that is done when you get sunburnt. Unfortunately, those repair mechanisms aren’t perfect and with every sunburn, damage can
build up. It’s this that can increase your risk of skin cancer. 11. MYTH: Higher SPF sunscreens are much better than lower SPF ones EVIDENCE: No sunscreen is 100% effective. There’s some evidence that using sunscreen with SPF15+ reduces the risk of melanoma compared with using no sunscreen or a lower SPF. But going higher than SPF15 might not offer the protection boost you’d expect. If applied properly, and used in combination with covering up and seeking shade, SPF15 should be enough to protect you wherever you are in the world. It’s best to go for sunscreen with a star rating of 4 or 5 as well. If however your doctor has recommended you use a higher SPF sunscreen because of a specific medical condition, you should follow this advice.
Your guide to which SPF
Call now for a free quotation 0800 433 2388 Info@thegardenhousecompany.co.uk
After reading these solved myths, you may be rummaging through your summer supplies to check that yours meet the standards. Which? has tested a variety of sun creams against British Standards to see if the products meet the claims on the bottles. They have listed which sun creams pass their UVA and SPF tests… n Asda Protect Cooling Clear Sun Mist, £3.50/200ml n Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Spray, £4.50/200ml n Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Lotion, £4/200ml
n Garnier Ambre Solaire
Protection Lotion, £5/200ml n Hawaiian Tropic Satin
Protection Sun Lotion, £6.50/180ml n Lloyds Pharmacy Solero Moisturising Sun Spray, £7/200ml n Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Spray, £6/200ml
n Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Sun Lotion, £5/200ml n Superdrug Solait Moisturising Sun Lotion, £4.99/200ml n Wilko Suncare Sun Lotion, £3.50/200ml n SPF50+ children’s sun screens which passed Which?’s UVA and SPF tests: n Boots Soltan Kids Protect & Moisturise Suncare Lotion, £4/200ml n Boots Childs Farm Sun Cream, £12/125ml n Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Sensitive Sun Protection Lotion, £7/200ml Read more at www.which. co.uk
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Food & Culture
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
Self-guided cycling in the Yorkshire Dales
will take your breath away
Wilderness England’s new tour lets you ride in the tracks of some of the world’s cycling greats. Abi Jackson tries it out
travel
A
CCORDING to exercise tracking service Strava, Annemiek van Vleuten holds the women’s top spot for cycling Yorkshire’s Trapping Hill. The Dutch rider raced up this 1.7-mile climb, which hits thighburning gradients of 17%, in seven minutes 10 seconds during the 2019 World Championships. It takes me about three times as long. Then again, my approach is slightly different. First, a refreshment stop at Lofthouse village at the bottom of the hill, where local dairy farmer Diane has set up ‘Nan’s Ice Cream Shed’ on the roadside. The sun’s blazing, so I top up my factor-30 and fuel up with strawberry ice cream as a buzzard circles overhead and songbirds chirp in the hedges. The only thing racing once I do get going is my pulse. I stop halfway to take a photo and am almost hyperventilating by the time I reach the top. There won’t be any Strava rankings for me, but – as most bike lovers well know – doesn’t being out on the open road on two wheels always feel like a victory? After the past year-and-a-half, these wins feel all the sweeter, and even if our speeds are in very different leagues, there’s something extra thrilling knowing I’m riding in the wheel tracks of some of the world’s cycling greats. The Yorkshire Dales play host to a number of major cycling events, including the Tour de France Grand Depart and the World Cycling Championships – and many of the very same routes feature in Wilderness England’s new Self Guided Plus Cycling Tour of Yorkshire, which I’m trying out. From the same team behind the awardwinning Wilderness Scotland and Wilderness Ireland, who’ve been running all sorts of adventure travel trips since 2001 and 2014 respectively, they’d planned to launch this one in 2020, which for obvious reasons wasn’t a great year for travel and hospitality. Now though, with the road to post-pandemic recovery in sight, our appetite for adventure, nature and a sense of freedom has perhaps never been greater – and Yorkshire has these in spades. This trip’s full five-day itinerary (I’m doing as much as I can in three) takes you
on a 192-mile (308km) loop, starting and ending in Pateley Bridge. This may not sound massively challenging distancewise, but the Dales are hilly. And we’re not just talking the handful of lung-busting corkers you’ll encounter; the whole region is famous for its rolling landscapes. Plus, this is a holiday not a race; the country pubs and cake stops are just as important as conquering those climbs. With a difficulty grade of ‘blue 6’, the route is at the upper end of ‘moderate to
‘The cycling is selfguided, so you can enjoy the ride at your own pace’ challenging’ (green 1-3 grades are easiest; red 7-9 are toughest). While you don’t have to be a hardcore athlete for this trip, you will need a decent level of cycling experience. There’s always the option to hire an e-bike if your joints and stamina could use a boost, but you’ll still want to be comfortable doing multiple days on the road. The cycling is self-guided, meaning you and your partner/pals can enjoy the ride at your own pace, without having to merge with strangers – but navigation’s all taken care of, as Wilderness England will supply Garmins with pre-saved route maps. They’ll also sort all your accommodation and you’ll get a dedicated soigneur (support driver), who’ll
cart your luggage and be on hand throughout for mechanical support, and generally making sure you’re all set and taken care of. Will, my soigneur, doubles up as a tour guide, as well as having a canny knack for knowing exactly when I could use a caffeine boost (there’s fresh coffee in the van, as well as snacks and water). Plus, you can hop in the van at any point if you need to (there is no shame in skipping a hill or two!). Bikes are either hired (for an extra fee) or you can bring your own. The accommodation’s a mix of 3-4-star hotels and inns, on a B&B basis. Everywhere I stay has its own character and charm – a highlight is a night in a yurt at the Black Swan in Ravenstonedale. Lunches and dinners aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for these, and book ahead to avoid disappointment if there are any particular places you want dinner at (the aforementioned Black Swan’s food is excellent). Your soigneur can help with recommendations, but finding lunch spots won’t be hard, as there are plenty of pubs and cafes, and no shortage of cake stops.
Charming You can stop along the way at some tourist hotspots too, such as Malham Cove – a 260ft high natural limestone amphitheatre – and Wenselydale Creamery, a great spot for lunch and sampling their famous cheese. So, it’s the best of both worlds, really: the convenience of being looked after and someone else doing all the organising, yet you still get your own adventure with some lovely long days in the saddle, soaking up the scenery. My trip starts with glorious blue skies. I cruise past meadows scattered with bluebells, daisies and buttercups so bright, it’s like the world’s switched on a filter. Some route sections are on main roads (none felt especially busy) but you’ll spend a lot of time on quiet lanes; for some parts, I encounter more long-horned sheep than traffic. I ride over bridges, alongside lakes and rippling rivers. Through woodlands and
farmlands and sweeping valleys, whose lush green basins are chequered with laithes – old stone barns that are one of the Dales’ most distinctive features, alongside its charming villages, vast moors and, of course, those hills. One of the most notable you’ll face is Fleet Moss, considered one of the UK’s top bike climbs. Approached from the southern side, you’ll be pushing for a good 2.5km. It starts off gradually enough, before the final stretch throws up some super-steep bends, hitting those 17% gradients again. Will meets me in the van at a tapered point before the climb gets serious; a quick roadside coffee and chocolate bar is exactly what I need to power on up. It’s a brute. But at the top, gasps of exhaustion quickly give way to gasps of awe, as I stop wobbly-kneed on the highest road in Yorkshire gazing at a vast blanket of heathy bogland, and the endless humps and dips of the valleys beyond. My favourite section of the trip though, is on day five’s route, a 10-mile stretch across a plateau on the way out of Settle near Pen Y Ghent. The sunshine’s long gone but the grey sky and growling breeze ramp up the wildness. For a good glorious hour, I am alone in the wilderness, gliding along on top of the world.
How to plan your trip…
Wilderness England’s (wilderness england.com; 01768 721 210) Self Guided Plus+ Cycling Tour of Yorkshire costs from £845pp based on four sharing, including four nights’ B&B accommodation, a Wilderness England soigneur and transfers with Wilderness England
steak How do you like yours? sTeAk is a new quirky restaurant situated in the charming Chapel Place, just steps away from the thriving Pantiles, where we pride ourselves on bringing you the best mouth-watering steak, cooked to perfection, however you like it. you can expect a warm welcome and exceptional service with a smile. All our steaks come from 30-day dry-aged dexter beef cattle. we are proud to work with southborough Butchers, providing us with flavoursome locally sourced produce. Although we specialise in steak, it is important for us to accommodate our non-meat eaters too so we also have plenty of vegan and vegetarian dishes for you to choose from.
To book your table please go to www.steaktunbridgewells.co.uk or call 01892 552592 we look forward to seeing you.
38
Food & Culture
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
goingout
By Lottie Bulmer [Photo: Cohesion Plus]
7 days of activities
FUN IN THE SUN The home of Winston Churchill has a variety of summer activities
PARKLIFE The weekly parkrun has returned [Photo Joseph Watson] WITH the final Covid restrictions lifted on Monday (July 19) in favour of recommendations, many of the town’s events can go ahead with nothing to hold them back. The weather is taking a turn for the better and with staycations on the cards for most of us, staying in and around Kent is one of the best places to be adhering to the travel restrictions. This week, we have compiled a list of things to do while the sun shines… NATIONAL TREASURES At Chartwell, children can join in with traditional games of boules or quoits or collect hoops or skipping ropes from the Visitor Centre to enjoy. There are also quieter activities for younger children out by the Marycot, – a little one room cottage built for by Winston Churchill for his children Sarah and Mary. A new summer trail all about the treasures of the Chartwell gardens will open for families too, running throughout the summer holidays. Across the estate, there’s loads to capture the imagination of little ones from the Chartwell treehouse to giant dormouse dens and swings in the Old Quarry. The lower lawn towards the lake is perfect for picnics, or there’s picnic tables in the field beside the overflow car park. The wider estate has miles of walks for little legs. Open daily, times vary. Summer treasures trail will be £2. Normal admission applies. For more information, nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell
HAVE A HEART The Allotment is holding a fundraiser for a defibrillator
ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER Parkruns restart this Saturday (July 24). Dust off those running shoes for a breezy 5k run around Dunorlan Park. Try and beat your personal record or just enjoy getting out into the summer air, at parkrun, runners are encouraged to run at their own pace – and enjoyment. It is free to enter and run, however you must be registered with parkrun to join in. Visit parkrun. org.uk to do so. The Tunbridge Wells branch is also looking for volunteers as the races are completely run by them. If this is something you’d be interested in, email royaltunbridgewells@parkrun.com. BACK TO BLACK At the Festival Theatre at Hever Castle, is paying tribute to the late Amy Winehouse with Back to Black – an ‘energising’ journey through her life. Songs of the six-time Grammy winners performed will include songs Back To Black, Valerie, Love is a Losing Game and Rehab. The show is delivered by Night Owls Production Company in their trademark ‘show-umentary’ format and performed by Reine Beau Anderson Dudley. For more information and to book, visit heverfestival.co.uk FOODIE FESTIVAL In Calverley Grounds this Sunday (July 25), the Tunbridge Wells Mela Festival is taking place. The multicultural celebration (above)
showcases music, visual arts, food and dance from around the world and takes place from 12:30pm to 6pm. The festival is celebrating its 15th year and was organised by Cohesion Plus and the Kent Equality Cohesion Council with support of Arts Council England and Royal Tunbridge Wells Together. Entry is free, and for more information visit tunbridgewellsmela.com GARDEN PARTY As mentioned on Page 10 in our Community section this week, The Allotment Pub’s Garden Party is taking place on Saturday July 31 to raise money for a defibrillator for the pub. The party will take place from 12 to 6pm. You are welcome to turn up on the day and it is free entry. Funds will be raised through the raffle which has over 30 prizes, such as donated meat from Fuller’s butchers, personal training vouchers and the jewel in the crown which is a hot air balloon ride donated by local business, Ascension cider. Christopher Hall, joint manager at the Allotment said: “It is good to be able to promote local businesses.” To buy raffle tickets, pop into The Allotment or buy while you’re at the Garden Party. The Allotment, 90 St James’ Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2HH ROCK ON On Tuesday (July 27) at The Forum, This is the Stable is taking place.
LIVE MUSIC The Forum is hosting live music event This is the Stable
Showcasing the best in talent from Kent and East Sussex, include 2.3, The Ramshackles, Son of Kirk, and Stella ‘n’ The Loft. 2.3’s journey takes them from Sheffield to East Sussex. The Ramshackles are punk and funk rock artists and were inspired by the likes of the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and David Bowie. Son of Kirk’s unique sound is characterised by ‘multiple rhythmic twists and turns, by songs that circle, hover and reveal.’ Stella ‘n The Loft perform songs inspired by personal experiences and are brought to life by the six band members. To book tickets, visit twforum.co.uk SILVER SCREEN The Rusthall Community Theatre is showing the best releases from the big screen old and new this month, complete with Covid precautions. Death in Venice is showing next on Saturday (July 31). It presents the story of the Thomas Mann novel, of an ageing German composer visiting Venice. The theatre has a new ventilation system with two large fans which force fresh air in at one end of the hall and two others extract it at the other - independent of the heating and air conditioning systems. They are also asking visitors to have had their second Covid vaccination two weeks before the show or be willing to show a negative test result taken up to 24 hours before. On the evening please wear a mask at least while standing.
FLICKS Rusthall Theatre is open again
Books
Wednesday July 21 | 2021
The bookcase… Over the past year or so more people have had the chance to fall in love with reading again. Here’s our pick of this week’s top reads to enjoy
FICTION
The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller Published in hardback by Viking, priced £14.99 (ebook £9.99). Available now
9/10
The Paper Palace is a constant backdrop in Elle’s life. A run-down holiday home resting on the shore of one of Cape Cod’s unspoilt ponds, it is where she spent her summers growing up: where she had her first kiss, found her first love and where she now takes her own children in the summer months. But there is something darker lurking in the waters of Elle’s past, something that tore her life apart. Over 24 hours we watch Elle’s life unfold, as she prepares for a decision that could change her world forever – to take back what she lost, or to keep living the beautiful lie she spent so long constructing. A family drama, a forbidden love story, a childhood tragedy, The Paper Palace is a stunning literary debut that will eat you up and leave you reeling – you won’t want it to end. (Review by Scarlett Sangster)
Guest book reviewer
39
Hostage by Clare Mackintosh
Published in hardback by Sphere, priced £14.99 (ebook £7.99). Available now A voice in Mina’s head says a lot can happen in 20 hours, as she prepares to join the crew for the first non-stop flight from London to Sydney. She was right. What follows is a turbulent series of shocking events and a journey that keeps the reader guessing until the final chapter. Mina discovers a note after the plane takes off, threatening the life of her five-year-old daughter, who is soon to be at the centre of a
violent, unfolding drama at home with her policeman father and the family’s nanny. Chapters swing between different passengers on the flight, who have wildly different plans for visiting the Sydney Opera House. We have big expectations for the North Wales-based author’s next book, considering the supersonic storyline of Hostage. (Review by Alan Jones)
8/10
Gunk Baby by Jamie Marina Lau Published in hardback by W&N, priced
£14.99 (ebook £9.99). Available now It’s hard to distill the plot of Gunk Baby, because there really isn’t much of one. It’s told largely from the perspective of Leen, a 24-year-old Chinese Australian woman setting up her own business in the middle of a suburban mall, focusing on Eastern healing – particularly ear cleaning. She falls in with some curious characters who have an anti-capitalist agenda, and starts dubious missions against those they deem ‘bad’. There’s a colourful cast of characters, all told from Leen’s detached perspective – including her friends who start a urine business to trick drug tests, and the militant, cultish Jean Paul. Jamie Marina Lau’s style is captivating – you’re drawn into the stagnant world of this Australian suburbia, and everything seems bizarre and off in a way that makes you feel constantly uncomfortable – but some readers might want more action, and less repetition. (Review by Prudence Wade)
7/10
CLEVER CRIME
Good Girl, Bad Girl by Michael Robotham (published in paperback by
HANNAH KIRSOP 9/10
WARTIME WOE
The Tobacconist by Robert Seethaler (published in paperback by
Pan Macmillan, priced £8.99)
Hannah Kirsop grew up in Kent and now lives in Horsmonden with her family. She loves to read and share recommendations and runs Bainden Book Club for a group of local women to discuss interesting fiction and non-fiction in a range of genres. You can find www.baindenbookshelf.com online or on Instagram: @baindenbookshelf
Food & Culture
Set in 1937 Vienna, this is a very simple, succinct and yet powerful coming of age story about Franz Huchel, a young and naive man from the Austrian lakes, who moves to Vienna to help an elderly Tobacconist in his shop. He soon meets Sigmund Freud, a customer, and so begins a beautifully depicted friendship that perfuses the novel as Franz navigates the challenges of both being seventeen as well as the pre-war period in Austria. With the realities of the atrocities against the Jews and sympathetic civilians set alongside the idyll of the life and landscape Franz left behind (illustrated through the correspondence between Franz and his mother), the story encapsulates the sadness, helplessness and vulnerability of ordinary people at that time. A brilliant, simple, moving, short read.
Sphere, priced £8.99) Introducing Cyrus Haven, a forensic psychologist and survivor of a childhood crime, who assists the police with profiling criminals. While helping investigate the death of a young girl, Cyrus meets Evie McCormac, another child victim with a secret identity. As he assesses her professionally, Evie begins to infiltrate both his personal life and the investigation as Cyrus realises that Evie, and her skill of identifying lies, may be the key to uncovering the killer… Winner of the Crime Writers’ Association Gold Dagger Award in 2020, this is a dark, crime book with some unsettling stories but these are counterbalanced by the genuinely enjoyable relationship which develops between Cyrus and Evie. This is a unique and gripping crime novel which will have you reaching immediately for the second in the series.
9/10
NEW FAMILIES
We Are All Made of Molecules by Susin Nielsen (published in paperback by Andersen Press, priced £7.99)
8/10
When Stewart’s dad moves in with Ashley’s mum, it is not all happy families. Stewart is nerdy and unpopular but doesn’t care as he deals with his mum’s death from cancer, and Ashley is the Queen of Cool but desperately hiding the fact that her dad came out before he moved out... to live in a shed at the bottom of the garden. Then, for different reasons, both Stewart and Ashley attract the attention of new boy, Jared, and the stage is set for everything to play out… Told from the viewpoints of each of the children, this is a book for ages 11-15ish with a brilliant plotline, driven by both tragedy and comedy. Although it does touch on difficult themes, it does so seamlessly, thoughtfully and empathetically without becoming too heavy.