Wednesday October 18 | 2017
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House prices in town soar by 30 per cent to buck national trend
KNIT FOR VICTORY
Town needs your poppies for remembrance carpet Page 2
By Katie Harris THE value of houses in some parts of Tonbridge are more than a third higher in real terms than a decade ago – going against the national trend of falling property prices. BBCresearch shows the cost of homes in Cage Green has grown by 38 per cent to an average of £495,000. Houses in the Vauxhall (average £357,500) and Judd wards of south Tonbridge have risen in value by 33 per cent and 27 per cent respectively.
No surprise The cost of residential properties has also increased significantly in Hildenborough (17 per cent, £500,000). The biggest difference across the borough of Tonbridge & Malling since 2007 was in the ward of Wrotham, Ightham and Stansted, which has seen a 44 per cent rise to £800,000. The Pantiles and St Mark’s wards of Tunbridge Wells have more than doubled, increasing by 54 per cent to an average price of £640,000. Ross Davies, Partner at Knight Frank LLP, said: “It is no surprise to see the research, given that we have some of the finest schools in the area, good road and rail commuter links, an array of attractive architecture and a real sense of community within the town.”
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Your local fireworks displays including the Angels Page 10
TICKLED PINK: Tonbridge School held a Pink Day to mark the 25th anniversary of Breast Cancer Care’s pink ribbon campaign. The Cawthorne Lecture Theatre was wrapped in a gigantic sash and bow, while geography teacher Chris Henshall looked fetching in his feather boa, tutu and furry leg warmers
Council sells River Lawn to make up for Teen and Twenty Club discount By Andy Tong THE campaign to save River Lawn will carry on despite the decision of the Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council [TMBC] Cabinet to sell the land to private developers. The protest group Keep River Lawn Green is consulting property experts about aspects of the controversial sale and will also be calling for the creation of a town council to handle issues such as the disposal of publicly owned assets in Tonbridge. The Times has learned that the sale was always going to be approved – despite widespread acrimony – in order to make up the shortfall after TMBC had offered the adjacent Teen & Twenty Club site on River Walk to developers at a discount.
Last week the Cabinet voted by four to one at Kings Hill to proceed with the sale for the construction of private housing despite the vocal opposition of more than half a dozen of its own councillors.
‘Without certainty as to what will go on this piece of land I cannot approve this sale’ The representatives who were not in favour of the deal spoke at the meeting but were barred from voting because the TMBC constitution unusually stipulates that decisions are taken by the six-person Cabinet and do not have to be put to Full Council. The vote was in fact made by five people instead of six – Cllr Sophie Shrubsole was
absent. The lone dissenting voice in the Cabinet was Cllr Maria Heslop, who described the vote as ‘possibly the hardest decision I have ever had to make’. The Cabinet member for Community Services accepted the sale would help to protect public services, which are being hit hard by a £1.6million budget deficit. However, the councillor for Vauxhall, who is married to council Leader Nicolas Heslop, added: “Without certainty as to what will go on this piece of land I cannot approve this sale. “I also felt, as the only south Tonbridge cabinet member, I had a responsibility to reflect the significant opposition that local people have expressed to the plans to sell.”
Continued on page 2
POLISHED DIAMOND Tonbridge Baseball Club finds a new home to run Page 94
DOUBLE FIGURE FUN
Angels Ladies hammer rivals Barming with 11 goals Page 95
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Local News
‘A very bitter lesson about democracy’ Continued from page 1 Earlier in the week, Mrs Heslop revealed the council had offered to sell the Teen and Twenty Club – which is being bought by Assura to build a new medical centre – for a cut-price £750,000. TMBC has assured the Times that River Lawn and the old CAB building will not be sold at less than market value, but at the highest price they can reach at auction or by public tender.
Cut-price Cllr Sarah Spence (Vauxhall ward), an opponent of the sale, revealed: “The sale of River Lawn was seen as necessary to balance the books because of the cutprice deal on the Teen and Twenty land.” The discount was offered to ensure the project went ahead and was delivered in a reasonable time frame. Cllrs Peter Bolt and David Cure (both Judd), Tom Edmondston-Low (Higham), Trudy Dean (Larkfield North) and Independents Mike Taylor and Tim Shaw (Borough Green & Long Mill) were also vocal in their opposition. Cllr Nicolas Heslop said: “We believe that this is the right decision for the borough and will enable the council to continue to deliver important services during what is a very challenging
time for local government.” In an emotionally charged evening at Kings Hill protesters filled the gallery, singing songs and brandishing banners as councillors arrived. Lucy Athey of Keep River Lawn Green said: “We are very grateful to Cllr Heslop for listening to her local voters and voting against the tide. She is completely correct that as the land is being sold without planning permission in place, there is no certainty as what might end up on there.” She added: “It seems odd that councillors from the farflung areas of Tonbridge & Malling can have a say on what goes on in our town. Many local Tonbridge councillors spoke up for us. “It makes sense that major decisions about our much loved town should be made by local councillors who listen to their constituents.” Mrs Athey, who is a teaching assistant at Sussex Road Primary School, said the decision had been greeted with dismay by her pupils. She said: “The hardest thing for me was talking to some of our youngest campaigners the next morning, who rushed up to me saying ‘Mrs Athey, is it true? Are they going to cut our trees down?’ Some of whom were in tears when they found out. They have been taught a very bitter lesson about democracy.”
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Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Awards for Kelly café and farmers market By Andy Tong
andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk TWO local food outlets have been named as winners at this year’s Independent Business Awards of Kent. Dame Kelly Holmes’ 1809 Café in Hildenborough, the village where she grew up, won the award for Best Venue. And Tonbridge Farmers Market has picked up the Community award – for which Café 1809 was also nominated. TriSwim, an open water swimming club which formed in April 2016 and swims at Haysden Country Park, was named as Start-up Business of the Year. James Wildish, who helped the gold medal winning athlete to set up Café 1809 in 2014, described its appeal: “Kelly’s vision was to bring a community hub to her village of Hildenborough.
“She wanted to bring all types of people together, mums, business people, runners and cyclists – we are bombarded with them at the weekend. It’s been quite a journey.” He believes the secret behind the success is the staff under Manager Robert Manktelow and Head Chef Rosalind Roberts. Fittingly, Café 1809 was also a finalist for the Service Excellence award. “The team are incredible, they always give the customers a warm, friendly welcome, and that’s really important. You don’t want to be ignored.” Tonbridge Farmers Market receives the community award after being runner-up last year. It is held on the sec-
THE PLACE TO BE (L-R) James Wildish, Rosalind Roberts and Robert Manktelow of Café 1809
ond Sunday of every month on Sovereign Way, from 9.30am to 1.30pm. Steve Wood says the community spirit manifests itself SMOOTH WATERS in free pitches Laura Ansell’s TriSwim every month for offers a safe environment local charities and organisations like the town’s Philharmonic, Twinning and Historical Societies. This month it held Pink Sunday, in support of Breast Cancer Care, where customers are encouraged to wear pink and receive a 10 per cent discount on goods. The occasion raises £400 a year for the charity. TriSwim organises swims at picturesque venues including Tonbridge’s Haysden, Hever Castle, Chipstead Lake near Sevenoaks and Honnington Farm in Southborough. Laura Ansell, a mother of two from Tunbridge Wells, was one of the founders of TriSwim and explains: “The idea was to offer lakes with full safety management.” She admits wild swimming can be ‘daunting’, adding: “I used to be nervous too. You don’t know what wildlife is in there, you can’t see the bottom. I couldn’t see many safety measures in place at these venues either.”
Your town needs knitted poppies – join Joyce and finish the carpet TONBRIDGE & Malling Borough Council has received thousands of knitted and crocheted poppies as part of this year’s Poppy Appeal. The council is now calling for one final effort before they are mounted on a carpet which will be unveiled at Tonbridge Castle on Friday [October 27]. Officials were taken aback last week when Tonbridge pensioner Joyce Singer contributed to the cause last week.
Veteran A 91-year-old veteran of the Auxiliary Territorial Service – the women’s branch of the Army during World War Two – handed in 100 knitted poppies last week, along with four by her daughter. The flowers can be any size or pattern. Some patterns for knitted and crocheted poppies are available on the Royal British Legion website www.support.britishlegion.org.uk
FLOWER POWER Joyce Singer drops off her 100 poppies
Knitters are asked to hand in their creations by Monday [October 23] at Tonbridge Gateway, Tonbridge Library, Borough Green Library, Larkfield Library, Snodland Library, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council offices at Kings Hill, West Malling Library. Maria Heslop, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “It has been inspiring seeing the wonderful efforts of local residents and groups filling the poppy collection bins with so many lovely poppies for the display. Carol King, a local resident who has made hundreds of poppies for the display, said: “It has been a pleasure to be involved in this project and fun to crotchet the poppies. It doesn’t take long to crotchet each one and I’m glad to be supporting Royal British Legion in this way. I can’t wait to see the final display.” For more information, please visit www.tmbc. gov.uk/poppies, email poppies@tmbc.gov.uk or call 01732 876008.
RIVER LAWN RAISES MORE THAN A FEW QUESTIONS… SO THE decision has finally been taken. After months of argument and counter-argument the River Lawn site in Tonbridge is to be put up for sale. Private developers are already drawing up plans with a view to building flats on the popular riverside plot. No doubt the protesters will be taking a long hard look at their options. If there is a public auction, could they raise the money to buy River Lawn? Both sides have valid points of view. Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council needs to sell assets to balance the books. Campaigners believe the green space should not be the sacrificial lamb. The debate will run for many more months.
The issue, though, has highlighted probably a more contentious point. Are borough councils today just too big? Tonbridge & Malling covers 1,400 square miles from Burham on the North Downs to the town of Tonbridge itself in the south. Which means that often community interests will clash. Ask people in the north if they want to save green space down south or have improved services and the answer is obvious. The same question posed in the south will probably produce the opposite answer. One solution would be to create a Tonbridge Town Council that would take decisions for the local community; an idea that has already
been floated by some and dismissed by others as impractical and unnecessary. This latest decision on River Lawn, though, will probably give the debate fresh oxygen along with a rethink about whether the council’s Cabinet should be able to take such significant decisions as River Lawn on its own. Many believe all 54 councillors should be involved in the process. Certainly when it comes to the overriding power of the six-member Cabinet, then Tonbridge & Malling appears out of step with neighbouring local authorities. Richard Moore, Editorial Director
Local News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
NEWS IN BRIEF
Sentencing adjourned on the Rusthall rapist FORMER public schoolboy Chiron Hutchinson (20) will be sentenced next week after being found guilty of carrying out three rapes on two women in October last year in Rusthall. He was due to be sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday but the hearing was adjourned to next Wednesday (October 25). The court heard that the alumnus of St Bede’s, Hailsham, worked in Tesco and lived in Uckfield with his mother but lied about owning a flat and working as a stockbroker
Talent show turn on COURTNEY HADWIN, the 12-year-old finalist on The Voice Kids UK, will be performing when the Christmas lights are switched on in Tonbridge on Sunday November 26. Courtney, from County Durham, dazzled judges and viewers of the ITV talent show this summer and will perform twice on the stage in Tonbridge. She will be joined by rock bands Hobo and the Hippies and Roxxon along with the Lions Community Pantomime cast of Peter Pan.
Son’s candlelit concert TICKET sales from a candlelit concert on Friday (October 20) will be donated to mental health charity West Kind Mind in memory of Oliver Cavey (13) who took his own life in 2015. His mother Sue Glass has arranged for musicians Lucinda Drayton and Marcus Cliffe to perform in St John’s Church in Hildenborough. Doors open 6.30pm and tickets cost £15.
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Puppet festival pulls right strings By Sarah Bond MORE than 2,500 packed the town to see the second Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival on Friday and Saturday, making it a ‘huge success’. Scores of children and adults were entertained at multiple venues, including Trinity Theatre, The Pantiles, The Forum and The Assembly Hall. The festival is the only event of its kind in the South East. The shows included The Carnival of the Animals, Clementine’s Fabulous Roadshow, The Ugly Duckling and a colourful exhibition and Masterclass at Trinity Theatre revealing the secrets of the stunning stage creations in the West End’s The Lion King. The puppets on display from the Disney musical saw lion king Mufasa (father of cub Simba) and sparky hornbill Zazu taking centre stage in Trinity’s gallery, accompanied by evocative African
POP UP PUPPETRY Crowds flocked to The Pantiles on Saturday music from the show. Costumes, masks and sketches were also showcased, giving a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the magic of Julie Taymor’s exquisite designs for the show.
Fantastic
Empty homes incentive DERELICT homes in Tunbridge Wells could be brought back into use in a £100,000 scheme. The council’s No Use Empty initiative is an interest-free loan scheme, which will provide help to those looking to redevelop property that has stood empty more than six months. A similar scheme has seen the refurbishment of more than 5,000 homes across the county.
NEWS
MANE ATTRACTION The Lion King at Trinity
TAKING FLIGHT The Lion King’s Zazu
Festival creator Linda Lewis, who was raised in the town, said: “Saturday brought a fantastic day of puppetry to Tunbridge Wells. There were over 2,500 people enjoying magnificent free shows on The Pantiles and in theatre spaces around the town. We’ve had such lovely comments from people who came along. It was a great day out for everyone in Tunbridge Wells.”
‘Arriva derci’ as final bus departs the St John’s depot THE last bus has left the Arriva depot on St John’s Road in Tunbridge Wells after more than 80 years of the garage serving the town’s passengers. The company has moved its fleet of 48 vehicles to temporary premises at Cannon Lane, Tonbridge, ahead of a permanent move to a new base on Kingstanding Way, North Farm, which is scheduled to open in the spring. The honour of driving the last bus on Monday – a Service 281 to High Brooms – fell to Paul Linstead who joined Arriva as a driver in Tunbridge Wells in
This year’s extended two-day festival was supported by Arts Council England, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Kent County Council and many local sponsors.
having a new, modern and purpose built depot from which to serve our routes across West Kent.” The upper part of the old depot, home to, 90 drivers, was built and opened in 1937.
1993 and is now an Inspector. Planning permission has been granted for the development of a new care home on the St John’s Road site.
Sadness Oliver Monahan, Area Managing Director at Arriva, said: “We move with a mixture of sadness and excitement; sadness that we leave the old garage behind and excitement at the prospect of
Paul Linstead at the wheel of the last bus to leave Arriva’s St John’s Road bus garage
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Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Calverley playground among the winners at Civic Society awards PARK LIFE Calverley Grounds playground was honoured
By William Mata
will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk CREATIVITY was key for winners of the ten Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society Awards (RTWCS) for building, architecture and design. Mayor Julia Soyke was joined by the society’s president Christopher Nevill, Marquess of Abergavenny, to hand out the honours at a Town Hall ceremony on Thursday (October 12). David Wright, chairman of the Civic Society’s awards panel, said: “It was a very successful evening, where winners were honoured for their creations’ good design, detail and build quality. MAKING THE CUT “Around 70 people were present Fargs Barbers manager Steve Farquharson accepts his award for with members of the Civic Society, the Best Shop Front from Mayor Julia Soyke awards recipients and their contractors represented.” There were three types of award presented by told we had won.” The Community Contribution Award was won by Cllr Soyke and Mr Nevill after a nomination, votthe Calverley Adventure Grounds Committee and ing and judging process. Winning designs included a barbers with an picked up by celebrated landscape architect Jennette Emery-Wallis. appealing shop front, the new mural at Tunbridge Barber shop Fargs in Camden Road Wells railway station and various aesthetically won Best Shop Front Award and pleasing houses. manager Steve Farquharson took the certificate. ‘Three types of award were Eight prizes were presented for the presented after a nomination, RTWCS Awards for properties, focusing on design, architecvoting and judging process’ ture and build quality. The architects, contractors and owners of each Scott Murray, design and building were all invited production manager for Pantilesand listed among the based Joseph McCarthy names of winners. Mirrors, picked up the A mixture of personnel award for Newly were present to collect Refurbished Premises. certificates. He said: “We’re delighted as only four THE AWARDS WERE years ago we took over PRESENTED AS FOLLOWS: when it was a derelict Best House Extension: 2a building. Claremont Road. Owners: “This is the first time I Angela and Graham Bond. have been to the civic Architects: Carlos Elsesser awards, I actually did not know the AA Dipl RIBA, AAC Studio competition was going on until we were Ltd. Building Contractors: DELIGHTED: Scott Murray (right) collects an Paul Edwards, Be at Home award on behalf of Joseph McCarthy Mirrors Developments
Local News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
RAIL VIEW The new mural at Tunbridge Wells station
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Development of the eyesore cinema site moves a step closer By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
Best New Public Art: Tunbridge Wells station mural. Owner: Southeastern. Artists: Chris Burke, Elaine Gill. Supporters: Refresh Tunbridge Wells, Michael Holman. Best New House: 3 Oaktree Close. Owners: Julian and Emma Bennett. Architects: OpenArchitecture – Paul McPartland. Building Contractor: Cosgrove Build and Design. Newly Refurbished Premesis: Joseph McCarthy Mirrors / The Pantiles Coach House. Business Owner: Joseph McCarthy Mirrors. Building Owner: Targetfollow. Building Contractors: RDF Building Group. Award for Three New Houses: 72-76 Albion Road. Owner: Paul Hunt (No. 72) Designer: Greenrock Land & Property Ltd. Architect: Madgwick and Dotteridge, Tunbridge Wells, Building Contractor: C.J. Gowing & Sons Ltd, Uckfield. Water Feature: Royal Wells Park Water Feature. Owner: Berkeley Homes (Eastern Counties) Ltd. Architects: Murdoch Wickham and HTA Landscape Design. Building Contractors: Berkeley Homes with Fairwater Ltd.
CIVIC APPROVAL: Mayor Julia Soyke and Christopher Nevill, Marquess of Abergavenny, hand out awards to the owners, contractors and architects of 72-76 Albion Road (new houses) Newly Refurbished Premesis: Framptons Café Bar and Kitchen. Business Owners: Sam Westlake, Ed McAdam, Tom Walker. Designers: Sam Westlake and Ed McAdam. Building Contractors: RDF Building Group.
Award for the Outstanding Design of Two Houses:
Mulberry House – 16 Calverley Park Gardens. Owner: Stephane Bruneau. Architects: Martin Rees. Landscape Work: Wilson Landscapes, Ashford.
PLANS to see Mount Pleasant’s old Odeon site turned into shops, housing and a new cinema will be voted on next week. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s (TWBC) planning committee have the chance to approve developer Altitude UK’s proposal to build up to 100 apartments on the 1.3 acre plot. The Beldevere, as the project is named, would also contain a water feature where the building intersects with Church Road and Mount Pleasant Road.Ahead of a special meeting on Tuesday (October 24) Councillor Bob Backhouse, who is on the planning committee, said: “It’s a grot spot that has long been a source of grief. “We will have to wait until the meeting to see what is said and it would be nice to see as many people there as possible.” Councillor Tracy Moore, whose Park ward covers the site, said: “I look forward to a town centre cinema if the application achieves planning permission. “I am aware that opinion is split on the design but I am delighted to see the inclusion of a water feature on the corner.”
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Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Local hockey club champions cause of sport for the disabled STICKY START Players try their hand at an awareness day in Maidstone
By Andy Tong TUNBRIDGE WELLS Hockey Club [TWHC] has become one of the pioneers in the south-east backing disabled hockey. Last month it launched a training opportunity for people with physical disabilities or learning difficulties called TW Flyerz. The Men’s captain Francis Bridgeman says: “Hockey is a sport that’s easily adapted to different ability levels, so there’s huge potential for it to become one of the leaders in disability inclusion.” The national governing body England Hockey
want ‘more disabled children, young people and adults to have access to the sport’. Flyerz is a scheme set up by England Hockey and open to prospective players of any age.
Proud The first Flyerz project started six years ago at Waltham Forest in east London, before the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, and was intended to form part of the Games’ legacy. Tunbridge Wells is one of 15 providers across the country – and the first in Kent and Sussex. Over the past 15 months, TWHC has been work-
ing closely with England Hockey and Access Sport, who supplied the initial push in 2011, and existing Flyerz branches across the country to make a success of the project. Francis says: “It’s a project which has involved a lot of planning and moved to the next phase as the club ran its first Flyerz session – so creating TW Flyerz as an integral part of the hockey club – last month at Hawkenbury. The club’s Chairman, Robert Harrison, added: “We are very proud that Tunbridge Wells has become the first Kent club to offer Flyerz. “It is part of the club’s commitment to inclusivity at the club and in the wider community.” TWHC has a dedicated team of coaches and assistants – several of whom have children of their own who participate in TW Flyerz – to run their sessions. Support is already flying in. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is providing the Hawkenbury pitch for free and Skinners’ School will allow the Flyerz to use their sports hall during the winter – while the cpmany OPRO is offering free gumshields. The training is provided free of charge and is currently being held fortnightly on Sunday mornings from 11am at Hawkenbury. All hockey equipment is provided. BADGE OF HONOUR Kyle Mathieson sports the Wells 1st XI’s new playing kit
They are also keen to spread the word. To encourage other hockey clubs across the region to set up Flyerz, TWHC held an hour-long taster session at the recent Kent Sport Disability Awareness Day in Maidstone. The Men’s 1st XI also started wearing new kit for their league matches this month,sporting the England Hockey EH Flyerz logo to help promote awareness among opponents and spectators.
‘Hockey is a sport that’s easily adapted to different ability levels so there’s huge potential’ At a national and international level, Flyerz and para-hockey have been growing, and moves are afoot to have it recognised as a sport for world championships and at Paralympic level. Last summer the Midland Mencap Flyerz, representing the England national team, won gold at the Euro Para Hockey Championships – a tournament for players with an intellectual disability – in Amsterdam after being Spain in a nail-biting penalty shootout. Francis added: “We have had a great initial take-up at TW Flyerz and are looking forward to growing this here in Tunbridge Wells and to encouraging others across the county to set up Flyerz. “Putting on these sessions is as much fun for us as it so clearly is for the participants. The feedback we have received so far from those who have been along to our sessions has been fantastic and makes the effort we have put in to get this up and running more than worthwhile.” For more information including details of forthcoming sessions, visit www.twhc.co.uk/flyerz
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Local Business News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Gap shrinks between towns in the property price league By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk AN ESTATE agent believes Tunbridge Wells properties maintain a ‘bit of prestige’ but points out that Tonbridge prices are catching up. Data revealed last week by the Office of National Statistics [ONS] found property in both towns is more expensive than the UK average, but some way below many boroughs in London. On average, it costs £3,507 to buy one square metre of residential floor space in Tonbridge and £4,008 in Tunbridge Wells. Daniel Warren, Associate Director of Jackson-Stops & Staff, based on Mount Pleasant in Tunbridge Wells [left], said better rail links have made Tonbridge more of a ‘hotspot’ for property.
“The gap between the towns has been wider in the past, but Tunbridge Wells has not seen the development that Tonbridge has. “I think the climate in Tunbridge Wells has slowed slightly in the last few months. There has been a slow and gradual rise in prices over a period. “However, there is still a bit of a prestige that comes with owning a house in Tunbridge Wells. “We saw an influx of activity in June and July, but since then we have not seen a huge amount of new buyers.” The local figures compare to £19,439 per square metre in Kensington and Chelsea, the most expensive nationally, and £777 in Welsh borough Blaenau Gwent, the cheapest. The UK average is £2,395. This is the first report of its kind, but the ONS has previously compared house prices per habitable room in local authorities.
Dragons’ Den star backs crochet firm launched ‘as hobby’ A MUM who started knitting and selling bobble hats when she gave up smoking has been endorsed by former Dragons’ Den star Theo Paphitis.
Boost Janet Fullalove-Jones, 39, turned her crochet hobby into successful brand FullaBeanies from her Rusthall home and now supplies the headgear to Hever Castle, Notcutts Garden Centre and the National Trust. The mother of two, who also trades online, received a huge boost by
being named one of the winners of business mogul Paphitis’s regular Small Business Sunday Twitter competition. The retail magnet offers upcoming brands the chance to gain online exposure and invitations to events and conferences to anyone who Tweets ‘#SBS’ at the end of each weekend. FullaBeanies was one of six small firms endorsed by the star on September 3 after several attempts to catch the eye of the business elite. Mrs Fullalove-Jones said: “It has been a big boost, I have been trying to be endorsed for a year.
“As soon as I say his name to anyone they instantly listen. I have now been allowed access to exclusives on his website and I am going to meet him at a conference.” Since starting the business, Mrs Fullalove-Jones has taken on an additional three staff, who are also mothers.
NEWS IN BRIEF
End of road for another town bicycle store CYCLE SURGERY has closed its store on Mount Pleasant, Tunbridge Wells, after failing to hit financial targets. After launching in the former Habitat shop in March last year, the bike store opened for the last time this week following a clearance sale. Customers with return or resale enquiries have been advised to contact the chain over the phone or internet. The nearest Cycle Surgery branch is now in London. The closure follows the owner of St John’s Road cycling shop and café The Velo House announcing he will be looking to redevelop the premises. Oliver Stephens said in April The Velo House has ‘struggled’ since opening in 2013, and that he would look to find alternative premises while hoping to convert the current shop into property. Remaining cycling shops in Tunbridge Wells town centre include Wildside Cycles and Velocipede in Camden Road.
Advice from experts FREE business advice and training will be on offer next month at an event organised by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together. Entitled ‘Building Successful Businesses in Tunbridge Wells’, it will see attendees given tips on developing a winning brand and growing a business. Industry experts from Cripps, Thomson Snell & Passmore, ifour and Natwest will be on hand to give advice at the event at One Warwick Park Hotel from 9.30am on Thursday, November 16. To book a place, visit www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/building-successful-businesses-intunbridge-wells-tickets-38334528607
Chef’s Brexit warning
BOOSTED: Janet Fullalove-Jones started crocheting when she gave up smoking
FOLLOWING the closure of his restaurant in Tunbridge Wells High Street, Jamie Oliver has shared his fears that Brexit will cause food costs to skyrocket. The celebrity chef has seen six of his highend Italian eateries shut in 2017, and he told CNBC the vote to leave the EU has caused ‘pressures’ and ‘unknowns’ in the market. “The cost of the food, labour and rents have gone up,” he said.
Local Business News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
WINNING JOURNEY Baldwins’ Nick, Ron and Chris Marks in London with their trophy
Passion pays off for award-winning firm A TRAVEL agent has thanked ‘loyal customers’ after being honoured at an industry awards ceremony. Nick Marks, director of Baldwins Travel Group [BTG], said he was ‘thrilled’ to pick up the Leisure Travel Agent of the Year gong from TV star Mark Durden-Smith at the Advantage Big Celebration Lunch in London on Friday, October 6.
BTG have eight offices in Kent and Sussex, including their bases in Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, and High Street, Tonbridge. Mr Marks said: “This award is testament to the passion, hard work and dedication of all our teams.” Julia Lo Bue-Said, managing director of Advantage Travel
Cutbacks not felt in town restaurant ITALIAN eatery Frankie and Benny’s in Knights Park is not one of the 41 UK branches facing closure. The Restaurant Group (TRG), who own the chain, is making cuts after two years of falling profits. TRG, which employs 15,000, is also looking to revamp its Garfunkel’s and Chiquito brands during what is difficult period for the restaurant industry as a whole. Frankie and Benny’s has 258 branches nationally. The Tunbridge Wells eatery has been a presence alongside Odeon cinema for a number of years. Customers might see discounts in the coming period with TRG thought to be offering cut prices, making the restaurant a short term hit in view of making a long term gain. Poor box-office performance of major films this
Partnership, the firm who organised the awards, passed on her congratulations. She said: “This is a fantastic vote of confidence in the independent travel industry. “We would like to congratulate Baldwins Travel Group for their outstanding performance this year.”
summer may also have hit Frankie and Benny’s with many other restaurants also near to cinema sites. TRG’s profit fell to £77.1million last year from £86.8million in 2015 as other restaurants, such as Prezzo and Pizza Express, seek to cut costs.
STAYING PUT Frankie and Benny’s will remain in Knights Park
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Local News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Town is promised ‘a wall of colour’ at biggest fireworks display in 60 years By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk MORE than 12,000 people are expected to attend the mammoth display of fireworks that has been lined up to celebrate the 60th annual display at Dunorlan Park next month. In addition to the ‘biggest ever show finale’, crowds can look forward to an aquatic display and music from The Rock Choir at what has become one of the town’s best attended gatherings.
Fairground
READY TO LIGHT UP OUR LIVES The Round Table team look forward to the big night
Tunbridge Wells Round Table member Andrew Mockford said the organising group are ‘upping their game’. “We made in excess of £40,000 last year, and we gave nearly all of it away to local charities. “We see the event as giving something back to the community, and over the years we have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for good causes. “It is great to be able to put on an event such as this and be part of it.” Dunorlan Park Fireworks night will begin at 5.30pm on Saturday, November 4, with fairground rides, street food and entertainment all available before the
25-minute firework display gets underway at 7pm. Mr Mockford, 33, has been involved in the event since the age of seven, when he helped out by selling programmes. “We have gone all out this year and have a wall of colour where, for 30 seconds, there will be a blast of about 100 fireworks at one time,” he said. “We are really thankful for the support of the public, without whom we could not run the event. We rely on them. “We are always striving to improve year on year to continue making it appealing to everyone, and to ensure its continued success.” Once again, Round Table members will divide the takings between a selection of local charities. In the past these have included St John’s Ambulance and local scout groups.
WHERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS Advance tickets cost £6 for adults and £4 for children and are on sale now from the Round Table at www.rtwrt.org Prices rise to £8 and £5 respectively on the day. From 9.30am to 4pm on the next two Saturdays [October 21 and 28], tickets can additionally be bought from a seller at Dunorlan Park.
Local News
PHOTO: Lee Smith
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Angels rise from Tonbridge fire while world awaits identity of Edenbridge’s giant ‘celebrity’ effigy THE Tonbridge Angels fireworks display will be held on Friday October 27 at the football club’s stadium at Longmead, Darenth Avenue, TN10 3JF. One of the biggest attractions during the year, the event is organised by Tonbridge Round Table in aid of local charities. It will have a Halloween theme including a children’s fancy dress competition along with a funfair and stalls. Tickets cost £5 in advance or £12 for a family with two adults and two children, or one adult and three children. On the gate, tickets cost £6 per person or £15 for a family. You can buy tickets at www.tonbridgefireworks. co.uk/buy-tickets or from selected outlets including Priory News, 43 Priory Road; Barden Stores, 91 Barden Road; Londsale, 12 High Street; Brondsons Newsagents, 143 High Street; Hayward’s Butchers, 6 York Parade.
Other displays Edenbridge - this famous bonfire celebration is championed as the oldest fireworks display in Kent, and entry is free. It features the igniting of a giant, 10-metre tall ‘guy’ based on a much-derided topical celebrity. This year it takes place on Saturday November 4.The party starts at 6.30pm when a torchlit procession parades through the town, led by the bishop of the bonfire, his choirboys and the Society’s other effigies – Guy Fawkes (also 10 metres tall), General Wolfe and Anne Boleyn, with her head tucked underneath her arm.
They will be joined by teams from visiting Sussex bonfire societies, along with carnival floats and marching bands.The display is held at the town’s Recreation Ground alongside fairground rides, stalls, and a resident DJ. Rusthall - celebrate their 40th bonfire and fireworks event on Saturday October 28. The procession leaves Common View, TN4 8RG at 7.30pm and the fireworks will start at 8.15-8.30pm. Pembury – this annual fireworks display takes place on Friday November 3. The show is held at the Recreation Ground, Lower Green Road, TN2 4DZ. Entry is free of charge but there will be a collection to raise money to provide disabled access to the Pembury Scout and Guide hut. Crowborough - After a record turnout in 2016, Crowborough are hosting a ‘Musicals’ themed firework display this year in aid of The Friends of Crowborough Hospital. It kicks off at 7.30pm on Saturday November 4 and is held at Goldsmiths Recreation Ground, Eridge Road, TN6 2TN. The Hop Farm – the Paddock Wood venue hosts a ‘Spooktacular’ themed event on Saturday October 28 on Maidstone Road, TN12 6PY. Gates open at 5pm and the display starts at 8.30pm. There will also be a funfair taking place as well as a variety of food and drink outlets. You can buy tickets in advance for £8 on the Hop Farm website or on the door for £10.
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County News OUT FOR THE SEASON Gillingham FC Ladies’ Vice-Captain Vanisha Patel
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
High-speed trains could stop at village station… SHAPING UP Plans for Otterpool Park garden town
Team raise money to help injured player A FOOTBALLER’S horrific injury has prompted her teammates to set up a crowdfunding page to pay her medical bill. Influential Gillingham FC Ladies’ Vice-Captain Vanisha Patel, 25, tore her anterior cruciate ligament in a game against Portsmouth, and requires reconstructive knee surgery. Teammate Jade Keogh established the online campaign to raise £5,000, and said: “Vanisha clashed with another player in a tackle that made all of our hearts drop. “Sometimes these things just look a lot worse than they actually are, but after an MRI scan we found out the worst news possible – that V had completely ruptured her ACL. “This news left our whole team speechless, and gutted to be without such an influential and courageous player for the rest of the season.” The campaign, called ‘Help V Get a New Knee’, had raised £2,535 as we went to press. To support the appeal, please visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/vanishapatel
NEWS IN BRIEF
Foster carers honoured and more are needed A RAMSGATE couple who transformed the lives of two children were among 100 foster carers nominated for honours this month. New and seasoned carers were thanked for their work at Kent County Council’s Fostering Appreciation Awards ceremony in Folkestone. Ray Keatley and his wife Janet took the award for Outstanding Outcomes for Children. “It is fulfilling and gives you a purpose for life,” he said. The council is recruiting 200 new foster carers and urgently needs to fill the vacancies.
Freight ferry to Belgium
By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
A VILLAGE’S small station could be a stop on the east Kent highspeed line under plans for a controversial garden town. Shepway District Council [SDC] is lobbying Network Rail for the 125mph HS1 trains to call at Westenhanger, on their way to and from London and Dover if the 12,000-home project Otterpool Park goes ahead. Westenhanger, a village of 400 residents lying just off the M20 motorway, bordering Folkestone
Racecourse, currently has just one train per hour to the coast and capital, with the station only being used 67,000 times last year.
Opponents Last week, Communities Secretary Sajid Javid released government funds to support SDC in formalising plans for Otterpool Park, which opponents feel would blight the landscape of the surrounding villages, which also include Lympne, Stanford and Sellindge. A council spokesman said: “As
part of the plans for Otterpool Park Garden Town we have been talking to Network Rail and lobbying hard so that changes are made to Westenhanger Station so that high-speed trains stop at the station.” Rail works would be needed to transform the railway station in order for it to be suitable for the fast Javelin trains operated by Southeastern. Developers are currently in midst of carrying out public consultations for Otterpool Park before a formal planning application for the garden town is submitted to the council.
A NEW freight ferry from Ramsgate to the Belgian port of Ostend could offer a valuable trading link from March next year. The alternative route for lorry drivers crossing The Channel would offer six departures every day, according to Belgian media. Thanet District Council has not confirmed the deal, but the service would be a boost to Ramsgate’s economy, with the port being unused by freight ferries since 2013.
App for good health A FREE mobile app has been launched to help Kent residents lead healthy lifestyles. One You Kent, also available on computers, offers a quiz to give users a health score and provides information of how to access medical services and exercise classes. There are also nutritious recipes and guides for stopping smoking. To details, visit www.oneyoukent.org.uk
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Community News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Musicians gather to help victims of Hurricane Harvey devastation THE BEDFORD pub in Tunbridge Wells is hosting a musical fundraising event on Saturday [October 21] called Live In The Living Room Gives Back: Helping Harvey. The song swap/songwriters’ circle charity event is being staged by James Vince in aid of PHOTO: Lee Smith
RAISE THE BAR (l-r) CAMRA’s Craig Beeson presents the certificate to Steve and CJ Baxter
The Grove recognised by CAMRA for 15 years of real ale excellence ONE of the oldest pubs in Tunbridge Wells, The Grove Tavern, has been awarded a certificate by the Campaign for Real Ale [CAMRA] for keeping its place in the Good Beer Guide for 15 years. Steve Baxter has owned and managed the Berkeley Road hostelry for 17 years, and it took him just under 12 months to secure his first entry into the prestigious guidebook.
Community Lying in the heart of the town’s ‘village’ area, it is described as ‘a little community wet-led pub that appreciates the customers, the beer and the laughs’. The award celebrates The Grove’s excellent conditioning and care for real ales.
Steve said: “I am delighted that we have been recognised for our beer – we work very hard to serve our cask ales at a high standard.” CAMRA’s West Kent Chairman, Craig Beeson, said: “Being in the Good Beer Guide for one year is great, 15 is excellent.” Steve is a former computer consultant who lives in Tunbridge Wells with his wife Jane and three children. He took up bar work after the birth of his third child, and took over The Grove Tavern at a time when it was facing closure. Now one his children can often be seen working behind the bar. Steve has since restarted his IT consultancy and customers will often come into The Grove for a drink carrying a laptop for him to mend.
the Texas Rebuild Fund to help the victims of the recent Hurricane Harvey. James runs the YouTube show Live In The Living Room in Ashford, and the event will feature musicians who have taken part in the show or support it. The headline act is One Day
Elliott from Maidstone, and the singer-songwriters who will also be performing include Steve Young, Liv Austen, Isabella Coulstock, Luke Pope and Hannah White. The event will run from 2pm-10pm and entry is free, though donations are welcome.
Tree of Hope welcomes GP expert LOCAL children’s charity Tree of Hope has strengthened its Medical Committee with the appointment of Dr Caren Nurcombe-Thorne. Dr Nurcombe-Thorne, who has a keen interest in paediatrics, is a GP Partner at the Parks medical practice in Rochester and recently became a clinical supervisor. Tree of Hope, which is based in Tonbridge, offers support for the families of children to help them access medical treatments which are not available on the NHS.
Fundraiser Gill Gibb, Chief Executive of the charity, said: “We are delighted to have Caren on board with Tree of Hope. “She brings with her not only a wealth of medical knowledge and expertise, but her experiences as a fundraiser and as a parent navigating the world of additional needs. We have much to learn from Caren.”
Dr Nurcombe-Thorne trained in South Africa and now lives in Hildenborough with her husband Andrew and their two daughters, ten-year-old Rachel and Bethany, three. Rachel has cerebral palsy, and Dr NurcombeThorne said: “I have always loved working with children, and since having a daughter with cerebral palsy, I have thought often about ways in which I could get involved in supporting others. “Working with Tree of Hope is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me, as I get to draw on some of my medical background but, more importantly, my experience as a mum in the special needs world.” Tree of Hope’s Medical Committee looks into requests for new treatments and services through analysis of available research, reviews new illnesses or syndromes, and reports on the outcomes of treatments and services. MEDICAL MUM For more information Dr Caren about the charity, visit Nurcombe-Thorne www.treeofhope.org.uk
Community News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
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Pickering’s ‘remarkable’ stalwart Lizzie Lou steps down after 13 years IT WAS the end of an era at the Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre’s AGM last week when stalwart Elizabeth Gower announced her retirement. She stepped down from the Board of Trustees and her role as Deputy Chairperson. She was also Head of Therapy and Lead Therapist. Known popularly as ‘Lizzie Lou’, she has been at the side of co-founder Polly Taylor since the charity was launched 13 years ago. It is today one of the best known and most respected charities in West Kent and is run entirely by volunteers to support those whose lives have been touched cancer. Tributes and thanks were paid at the Spa Hotel to a ‘remarkable’ woman. In her retirement speech, Elizabeth recalled the time when Pickering was
newly launched and their plans were announced. The then Tunbridge Wells Tory MP Archie Norman told them: “It’s all very grand, but it’s unlikely it will ever happen.” She said: “I would love him to come back now and see the work we are doing with our volunteers and therapists helping more than 3,000 people every year – and all for free. Oncologists and GPs refer people to us from all areas, and our door is always open. No one is turned away.” She also reminisced about the day that she and Polly met The Queen at a garden party at Buckingham Palace. Polly was wearing an ‘amazing hat’. She spotted it in a local charity shop but refused to pay £45 and persuaded staff to let her borrow it for the palace visit if she returned it the next day.
TEAMWORK: Deputy Mayor Pam Bates, Tonbridge Lions Club Vice-President Gordon Hill and his wife, Peggy, meet the children taking part in Discovery Day at the Angel Centre
Fun and games for children on Tonbridge Discovery Day By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk
FULL SUPPORT Elizabeth Gower (fifth from left) was Head of Therapy
SEVENTY students with special needs joined the Deputy Mayor of Tonbridge & Malling, Cllr Pam Bates, for this year’s Discovery Day at the Angel Centre in Tonbridge on October 6. There was a wide range of sports and activities on offer, including basketball, arts and crafts, trampolining, handball, judo, gymnastics, short tennis, boccia, sitting volleyball, zumba and Boxfit, many of which were delivered by volunteers from local clubs and coaches. The children came from Oakley and Broomhill Bank schools in Tunbridge Wells, Bower Grove School in Maidstone and Hadlow College. The event was organised by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council in conjunction with the Tonbridge & Malling Leisure Trust and Tonbridge
Lions Club. It was sponsored by Fidelity International, who also put forward members of their staff to help run the day. Vicki Haxton, of Fidelity’s charity committee, said: “Fidelity is pleased to support this great local initiative. The disability sports awareness day is such a pleasure for us to be a part of, and it is heartwarming to see the children discovering something new.”
Creative Cllr Bates added: “Many thanks to everyone involved in making the Discovery Day such a success – it was great to see children enjoying such a great range of activities. “Many of them were trying something they had never done before, so it was exciting to see them being so creative and mastering new skills.”
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Local News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Lifestyle awards are talk of the town
Since they were launched just two weeks ago, the So Lifestyle Awards have been making waves with more than 600 nominations flooding in for local people and businesses, and more to follow
T
HE So Lifestyle Awards, which aim to recognise people, places and produce, are driven solely by members of the public, who are being invited to name their favourites and then vote for them. “We’ve had such an amazing response to the awards already,” said So Magazine Editor Charlie Bond. “The nominations have been pouring in, but there’s still plenty of time to put forward your suggestions, from your favourite place to eat to the person who inspires you the most.” The So Lifestyle Awards will take place on February 8 next year, and will see local Paralympian Will Bayley as the VIP guest speaker. Joining him on stage will be big-name comedian Kerry Godliman, who is
‘We’re thrilled to be welcoming Kerry to our night at Trinity Theatre’ So Magazine Editor Charlie Bond
currently starring in ITV’s Bad Move alongside Jack Dee. Kelly has appeared on BBC2’s Live at the Apollo more than once, and played Hannah in the Channel 4 series Derek. “We’re thrilled to be welcoming Will and Kerry to our night at Trinity Theatre,” said Charlie. “The evening will be a mixture of inspiration and entertainment – and, of course, we’ll see the deserving winners picking up their awards, too.” If there’s someone or somewhere you’d like to see shortlisted for an award, then you can nominate at www. solifestyleawards.co.uk Nominations close on November 17. So Magazine is a sister publication of Times Local Newspapers. The ten categories can be seen here:
THE CATEGORIES INSPIRATIONAL PERSON OF THE YEAR (The Caroline Elliott Award) Sponsored by RVP
This is the person who’s really made a difference. Maybe they’ve made big changes in the community, maybe they’ve touched someone’s life personally. Either way, it’s time they were recognised for their amazing efforts and all they have done to inspire others. BEST LOCAL BLOGGER Sponsored by RVP
The blogger has their finger on the pulse when it comes to the local community, and from writing about foodie hotspots to family-friendly favourites, they know how to engage their audience while promoting the best the area has to offer. STYLE CHAMPION Sponsored by Fenwick
They turn heads wherever they go, know exactly what’s in and what’s out, and whatever age they are, they aren’t afraid to let their individual style shine through. Maybe they work in fashion or maybe they’ve just got the wardrobe we all want, but they’re definitely the go-to person when we want style advice. FOODIE FAVOURITE FUNNY GIRL VIP guest Kerry Godliman
Sponsored by The Cinnamon
Whether it’s your go-to place for pancakes or poached eggs, the
brunch venue that does the best avocado toast you’ve ever eaten, or the dinner destination you’d happily visit every night of the week, this exceptional eatery is the one you recommend to everyone, and frequent so often there’s a table permanently reserved for you… MOST FUN FAMILY DAY OUT Pleasing everyone in the family can be a tricky task, but this place gets it right every time, keeping kids and adults entertained. There’s lots to see, do and enjoy here and you always return, come rain or shine. RAISE A GLASS It could be the bar you visit to celebrate that work achievement, or where you stay out past your curfew when the babysitter’s booked. This is the award for the place with the coolest cocktails, the smoothest ales and a brilliant atmosphere – the best nights are made here, even if the memories are a little hazy… FEEL-GOOD FACTOR We all need a bit of TLC from time to time, and this award recognises the places you go to relax, get pampered and enjoy that welldeserved ‘me time’. From the hair salon that puts a spring in your step after every appointment, to the beautician who makes you glow from head to toe, this award recognises the places and people who give you that little boost to make you feel your best.
FITSPIRATION AWARD Sponsored by Synergee
From the personal trainers who push you to achieve your fitness goals, to yoga sessions you’ll get out of bed for in the mornings, this award recognises those health heroes who make you feel fantastic, if a little sweaty… BEST LOCAL PRODUCT Sponsored by Sankey’s
Why go to France for your wine, or London for your gin, when everything you need is right here on your doorstep? With so many homegrown Kentish offerings available, we want to know who’s bottling the best beer, making the most fantastic fizz and growing the freshest fruit. TOP CUP OF COFFEE Whether it’s the place you love to catch up with friends over a cappuccino or the best venue for a take-away turmeric latte, tell us who makes the coffee you love so much you’re still buzzing after the caffeine has worn off… To nominate your favourite visit www.solifestyleawards.co.uk If you would like to sponsor a category then contact Lara Milan on 01892 739 764
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National News
One in 12 patients must wait over an hour to enter A&E ONE in 12 patients taken to hospital by ambulance are stuck outside A&E for more than an hour before being seen. The Department of Health says ambulance staff should be able to hand patients over to A&E staff within 15 minutes of arrival at hospital. Not doing so increases the risk to patients due to delays in diagnosis and treatment, as well as the chance a patient will get worse while waiting on a trolley. The Care Quality Commission data is based on a survey of 45,000 people who received urgent and emergency care from 137 NHS trusts in England last year. Of 12,588 patients taken to A&E by ambulance, 4 per cent waited one to two hours before being transferred to A&E staff, while a further 4 per cent were forced to wait for two hours or more. There was no delay for 41 per cent of patients, while 27 per cent waited up to 15 minutes.
NO WAITING Four in ten faced no delay
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Rise in inflation puts more pressure on interest rates
FIZZING OVER Non-alcoholic drinks sales rose INFLATION surged to its highest level for more than five years last month, increasing the financial pressure on households and boosting the prospect of an interest rate hike. The Office for National Statistics [ONS] figures showed the Consumer Price Index [CPI] measure of inflation reached 3 per cent in September, rising in line with expectations from 2.9 per cent in August.
Squeeze The step-up in CPI was driven by higher food and transport costs, pushing the headline rate to levels not seen since April 2012. Households face an even tighter squeeze as the Brexit-hit pound bumps up everyday prices and wage growth tracks behind inflation. The Bank of England’s Governor Mark Carney has said a transition
Mark Carney
agreement for EU withdrawal is in ‘everyone’s interest’ and reiterated it may be ‘appropriate’ to hike interest rates as Brexit-fuelled inflation is set to rise further. Mr Carney told MPs that policymakers on the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee believed a rise in interest rates may be needed over the coming months as it looks to tackle surging inflation caused by the weak pound. It comes as economists are pencilling in the first rise in interest rates for a decade in November, when the Bank’s next decision and latest set of forecasts are due. Andrew Sentance, PwC’s senior economic adviser, said: “This latest rise in inflation will add to the squeeze on the spending power of consumers and is likely to prolong the period of sluggish growth we are currently seeing here in the UK. “A further rise in the inflation rate later this year cannot be ruled out. “A gradual rise in interest rates would help support sterling and reduce the risk that the current surge in inflation becomes more prolonged and persistent.” The ONS said food and non-alcoholic drinks rose by 0.8 per cent month on month in September after falling by 0.1 per cent over the same period last year. Transport put upward pressure on the headline rate, recording a smaller month-on-month fall of 1.3 per cent in contrast to a drop of 2.3 per cent in 2016.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Chronic decrease in social care workers VACANCIES for social care workers have increased by 64 per cent over the past year as the sector grows and EU nationals leave because of Brexit, a new study reveals. Jobs site reed.co.uk reported 10,747 social care jobs on offer last month compared with 6,543 in September last year. Chairman James Reed said: “There is a perfect storm brewing – an ageing population in the UK, European workers uncertain about taking or staying in jobs over here, successive chancellors keen to balance the books and historically low pay rates.”
Royal baby due in April THE Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their baby in April. Kensington Palace said William and Kate were ‘delighted’ to confirm the month their third child is due to be born. Kate has been suffering from a severe form of morning sickness but made a surprise appearance at a royal engagement this week. She is due to visit Norway and Sweden with the Duke early in 2018.
Graves to be re-used NEW legislation that will enable a private cemetery to reuse graves has been approved by MPs. A private Bill will allow the North Southgate Cemetery in north London to reuse existing graves where burial has not taken place for at least 75 years, and no exclusive burial rights exist.
National News
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
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Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year revealed Crimewatch axed AN IMAGE of a black rhino with its horns hacked off has seen Brent Stirton named Wildlife Photographer of Year. He won the award for his image Memorial to a Species, taken at a game reserve in South Africa – one of almost 50,000 entries received from 92 countries. Judge Roz Kidman Cox said: “To make such a tragic scene almost majestic in its sculptural power deserves the highest award. There is rawness, but there is also great poignancy and therefore dignity in the fallen giant. “It’s also symbolic of one of the most wasteful, cruel and unnecessary environmental crimes, one that needs to provoke the greatest public outcry.” The Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2017 award was given to Daniel Nelson for his portrait of a lowland gorilla from the Republic of Congo, seen lounging on the forest floor eating a breadfruit.
13 months after it was relaunched THE BBC is to drop Crimewatch after more than three decades. The show – which reconstructs unsolved crimes in a bid to gather information from the public – was only relaunched last September with Jeremy Vine as a host. Daytime spin-off Crimewatch Roadshow will continue to be screened. Among the crimes featured on the programme was the murder of chef Claudia Lawrence, 35, who disappeared on her way to work in 2009.
Public service LOUNGE AROUND Daniel Nelson’s gorilla
UK will work out EU security deal IT IS ‘unthinkable’ that the UK will walk away from talks with Brussels without a deal at least covering security co-operation, Home Secretary Amber Rudd has said – appearing to contradict Brexit Secretary David Davis. Mr Davis told MPs the Government was ‘straining every
sinew’ to secure a comprehensive deal but it was vital that in a negotiation you ‘have to have the right to walk away’. But Ms Rudd [pictured] insisted there would be agreement on the vital issue of security co-operation, stressing that it was in the interests of both the UK and the remaining 27 EU members to reach a deal. Asked about speculation the UK could walk
away without a Brexit deal ‘of any form’ Ms Rudd told the Home Affairs Select Committee: “I think it is unthinkable that there would be no deal. “It is so much in their interest as well as in ours; in their communities’, in their families’, in their tourists’ interests to have something in place. We will make sure there is something between them and us to maintain our security.” Mr Davis, who is leading the UK’s negotiations with the EU, accused
Brussels of stalling in order to squeeze more money out of the UK. “They’re using time pressure to see if they can get more money out of us, and bluntly, that’s what’s going on,” he told the House of Commons. Asked about the prospect of leaving without an agreement, he said the UK had to be prepared ‘because it’s a negotiation with many people and could go wrong’ but also ‘you always have to have the right to walk away – if you don’t, you get a terrible deal’.
Martin Dales, a friend of Miss Lawrence’s father Peter, said: “The number of times we have been involved with Crimewatch, it has always been helpful. It is the exposure that is important.” He said the programme fits into the work of a public service broadcaster, adding: “It is disappointing and it strikes me that it is a huge loss in expertise in linking the relevant police forces and the public to a number of channels.” Sue Cook and Nick Ross hosted the first show in 1984. It featured the murder of 16-year-old Colette Aram, who disappeared as she walked to her boyfriend’s house in Keyworth, Nottinghamshire, in October 1983. Cook was replaced by Jill Dando in 1995, with the latter’s murder in April 1999 featuring on the programme a month later. As a result of the calls made to the programme, the police were led on a new line of inquiry which resulted in the arrest of Barry George. George was wrongly convicted of the killing and acquitted in 2008.
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BUSINESS
National Business News
North-west is latest house price hot spot THE north-west of England has led the way for house price growth over the past year, while London has seen the smallest annual increase across the UK. Overall, average house prices increased by 5 per cent in the year to August, up from an annual increase of 4.5 per cent in July, according to the report released jointly by the Office for National Statistics [ONS], the Land Registry and other bodies. House prices were also up by 0.5 per cent monthon-month, taking the average UK property value to £226,000 – £11,000 higher than in August 2016. The north-west of England saw prices increasing by 6.5 per cent to reach £160,000 on average in August. This was followed by the East of England, East Midlands and South West, where prices all increased by 6.4 per cent annually. The lowest annual growth was in London, where prices increased by 2.6 per cent over the year, though it continues to be the region with the highest average house price at £484,000.
British Gas considers approach to price cap BRITISH GAS owner Centrica has said it would ‘work with’ Ofgem on a domestic customer-wide price cap under questioning by MPs over the necessity for legislation. Sarwjit Sambhi, who runs British Gas’s home business, was asked by the Commons Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee if Centrica would legally challenge a cap. “Our understanding is that Ofgem would need a bill to implement a market-wide price cap.” he said. “If the price cap actually reflects the cost of supplying energy and is clear about a time frame, we would work with Ofgem on that.”
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
NEWS IN BRIEF
TAKING OFF C Series will be made in Alabama
Snapchat to offer TV with NBC Universal
Airbus steps in to help threatened Bombardier AIRBUS has acquired a majority stake in Bombardier’s C Series aircraft programme, the companies have announced. The move has been hailed as a ‘positive step forward’ by Business Secretary Greg Clark and comes after the US government proposed a 300 per cent duty on exports of the planes to the country amid an international trade dispute. Production of the aircraft will be extended to the US state of Alabama, which chiefs from European firm Airbus and Canada’s Bombardier believe will mean it avoids import tariffs. Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders said planes built in the US would not be subject to duties under the US investigation. But US aerospace giant Boeing said in a statement: “This looks like a questionable deal between two heavily state-subsidised competitors to skirt the recent findings of the US government.
“Our position remains that everyone should play by the same rules for free and fair trade to work.” DUP leader Arlene Foster said it was ‘significant news’ for Bombardier, which employs more than 4,000 people at its Belfast factories and is due to begin delivering a blockbuster order for up to 125 new C Series jets to Atlanta-based Delta Airlines next year. Airbus obtained a 50.01 per cent stake in the C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership and hopes the deal will improve sales. Mr Enders said: “Not only will this partnership secure the C Series and its industrial operations in Canada, the UK and China, but we also bring new jobs to the US.” Bombardier’s President Alain Bellemare said: “This partnership should more than double the value of the C Series programme and ensures our remarkable game-changing aircraft realises its full potential.”
SNAPCHAT’S parent company has announced plans to create TV programmes for its mobile app as part of a new deal with TV giant NBCUniversal. Snap Inc announced it has created a new digital content studio in California that will focus on developing scripted TV shows designed to appear in the popular social media and picture sharing app.
London venues suffer THE owner of Madame Tussauds and Alton Towers has seen its shares plunge by a fifth because of peak summer trading woes after the UK terror attacks. Merlin Entertainments’ trading figures confirmed a ‘difficult’ summer for the company’s London attractions and UK theme parks after the terrorist attacks, which saw group like-for-like revenue growth almost grind to a halt, edging up 0.3 per cent in the 40 weeks to October 7.
Bellway success story HOUSEBUILDING giant Bellway has posted record annual profits and is predicting buoyant sales and price rises. The Newcastle-based group reported a 12.6 per cent rise in pre-tax profits to £560.7million for the year to July 31 after seeing the number of completions rise by 10.6 per cent to a new all-time high of 9,644 homes. Earnings jumped 16.2 per cent to £571.6million.
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World News
No plans to change one-party system at China’s congress CHINESE President Xi Jinping is primed to consolidate his already considerable power as the ruling Communist Party begins its twice-a-decade national congress today. From meetings largely cloaked in secrecy, powerful players will emerge publicly in new roles, and Mr Xi will address the nation to lay out his political and economic vision for the world’s second-largest economy over the next five years. Mr Xi, who is expected to get a second five-year term as party leader at the gathering, will kick off events with an address indicating whether his personal political theory will be entered into the party constitution alongside those of predecessors such as Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. The honour was bestowed much later in office for other leaders.
Powerful Such a proclamation, at this time, would broadcast that Mr Xi, already China’s most powerful leader in decades, will continue to dominate Chinese politics for the next five years, and possibly more, with virtually no domestic opposition. Party congress spokesman Guo Zheng on Tuesday [October 17] said the party would continue structural reforms but ruled out any adoption of a multi-party democratic system. “Political structural reform is not something that can be achieved overnight. “China will not blindly copy or replicate the models of other countries,” Mr Guo told reporters at a news conference to discuss the congress’ agenda.
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
SPORT IN BRIEF
STREET WISE Demonstrators call for change
Relegation assured as Middlesex lose appeal
Catalan independence vote declared unconstitutional SPAIN’S top court has officially ruled that Catalonia’s disputed independence referendum was illegal because a regional law that backed it was against Spain’s constitution. The Catalan regional parliament passed the so-called ‘self-determination referendum law’ in early September. Regional leaders went on to stage the October 1 referendum on whether the region should separate from Spain. They said the ‘Yes’ side won and the result gave the region a mandate to declare independence. Spain’s Constitutional Court
had earlier suspended the law temporarily while judges assessed the Spanish government’s objection to it. In its ruling yesterday [October 17], the court said the law was against national sovereignty and the ‘indissoluble unity of the Spanish nation’. The ruling was not surprising as Spain’s government had already repeatedly insisted the vote was illegal. “We are facing an executive power in the state that uses the judiciary branch to block the legislative,” Catalan government spokesman Jordi Turull said.
Catalan president Carles Puigdemont made an ambiguous statement last week, saying he has the mandate to declare independence but would not immediately move to put it into effect to allow time for talks and mediation. Mr Puigdemont now has until Thursday to backtrack on any steps the region has taken toward secession. If he refuses, the central government has said that it would invoke constitutional authority to restrict or revoke the areas of self-governance that Catalonia now possesses.
MIDDLESEX have failed in their appeal against a two-point deduction in the County Championship, confirming their relegation from Division One. The punishment came for their slow overrate during August’s match at Surrey, which was abandoned when a crossbow bolt was fired into The Oval. The county, who won the championship last year, finished one point below Somerset, who were ready to take legal action if the appeal was successful.
Play-offs revealed THE manager of the Republic of Ireland Martin O’Neill and his Northern Ireland counterpart Michael O’Neill were pleased to avoid four-time winners Italy in Tuesday’s World Cup play-off draw. The two countries were both unseeded for the draw in Zurich and Northern Ireland were paired with Switzerland while the Republic will face Denmark.
Ready, Set, Bolt! USAIN BOLT is set to trade the running track for the race track after he was confirmed as the official starter for Formula One’s United States Grand Prix. The eight-time Olympic champion, who hung up his running spikes following August’s World Championships in London, will give the signal to Lewis Hamilton and Co to start their formation lap ahead of Sunday’s [October 22] race in Austin.
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Wednesday October 18 | 2017
FEATURES
25
Just because you have osteoporosis, it doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence The London Osteoporosis Clinic is the first of its kind dedicated solely to early and post-fracture screening, diagnosis and treatment to reverse osteoporosis and prevent fractures. Dr Taher Mahmud is the Lead for Osteoporosis and a Consultant Rheumatologist at the clinic which offers consultations both in Tunbridge Wells and Harley Street. The impact of osteoporosis can be devastating, but Dr Mahmud believes it is both treatable and preventable. He explain why… What do you know about osteoporosis? · In the UK alone, 1 in 2 women, and 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 will have osteoporosis. · Almost every minute, because of osteoporosis, someone experiences a fracture. · An estimated 3 million people in the UK, and 9 million worldwide, suffer from osteoporosis · Each year, thousands of patients experience wrist, hip, or spinal fractures – and the numbers are on the rise
In the body, bones are constantly in a state of renewal. Old bone breaks down, and new bone is made. This happens more slowly in old age. In young people, the body makes new bone faster than it breaks down the old bone, so bone mass is increased. Over time, this process slows down. We reach our peak bone mass level in our early 30s, and from them, bones break down faster than the body is able to create them. Therefore, the more you produce bone and accumulate bone mass in your younger years, the less likely you are to develop osteoporosis as you age. Think of your body like a bank, saving bone for later in life.
What actually is osteoporosis? Osteoporosis happens when bones become gradually more fragile. This can progress painlessly, until a bone suddenly breaks. Our bones are made of a thick outer shell, which surrounds a strong mesh network filled with calcium salts, collagen (protein), and other important minerals. When the mesh becomes thin, it can break easily.
What causes osteoporosis? As well as a low peak bone mass, there are other factors that can contribute to the development of osteoporosis: · A sedentary lifestyle (e.g lack of exercise, not being active) · Drinking excess alcohol · Smoking · Low sun exposure and lack of vitamin D · Low calcium levels
· Inflammatory conditions (e.g arthritis) · Genetic variation · Drugs, such as steroids · Apoptosis (cell death) · Menopause – particularly early menopause Osteoporosis is also more common in women than it is in men. The most commonly affected areas in the body are the wrist, hip, and spine. As the process is gradual, osteoporosis often displays no symptoms until a bone breaks. However, as bones become weaker, you may notice back pain, a slight loss in height over time, or a stooped posture. Treatment and prevention of osteoporosis There are ways you can help to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis, and many start with your lifestyle. Smoking is advised against, as it can increase rates of bone loss, and reduce levels of calcium absorption. If you drink excess alcohol, this can decrease your bone
formation and decrease the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Moderation is key, and more than one alcoholic drink a day is considered excessive. Alcohol can also increase your risk of falling, which is another risk factor for osteoporosis. To prevent falls, wearing shoes with a low heel is recommended, along with making sure your general environment is as safe as possible. Tuck away wires or cables, and avoid having slippery surfaces around the home. Once osteoporosis has been diagnosed, there are various medications and therapies that can be prescribed by the doctor. After diagnosis, your specialist can recommend the best course of treatment. Prevention, however, is always better than cure in this case. Your lifestyle and the decisions you make can affect your bones and their health. Factors such as nutrition, exercise, and daily habits can affect how likely you are to develop the condition. While osteoporosis is common, it can be helped, and you have the potential to prevent it.
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NEWS
Letters
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Great to hear that women here are still fighting for their rights I was interested to read your article saying that Tunbridge Wells was one of the best towns for women to live in [October 4], and to hear about the local branch of the Women’s Equality Party, who also have a thriving membership. Last Wednesday, October 11, was the birthday of Emily Wilding Davison. In her quest for women’s suffrage, she died on June 8, 1913 from injuries sustained when she ran on to the racetrack at the Epsom Derby and was trampled by the King’s horse. It’s particularly interesting to note that the local Women’s Equality Party now hold their monthly meetings in the upstairs room at the old Opera House, where the suffragettes used to meet in Tunbridge Wells. It’s because of the suffragette movement, and women like Emily Wilding Davison, that Tunbridge Wells can be such a great town for women, most of whom have the freedom that Emily fought so hard for. Sadly, not all women in Tunbridge Wells have it so easy and so, nearly 100 years on from when women first got the vote, it’s good to know that the Women’s Equality Party are still
Remember our service personnel On Sunday November 12, throughout the land, there will be Remembrance Sunday wreath-laying ceremonies at which all those gathered together will say: ‘We will remember them’. Although first-hand memories of the two world wars are receding, I think it is vital that we continue to remember and honour those who lost their lives or suffered terrible injuries in these and subsequent conflicts. Millions of pounds are spent on [their] welfare each week, and the beneficiaries are growing annually due to recent conflicts. Our Armed Forces and the demands on these services are as important now as they have always been. Through the pages of the Times, may I ask your readers to be as supportive and generous as they have been in the past, and that anyone (aged 16 or over) who may be able to spare an hour or two collecting for the appeal email: volunteersupport@britishlegion.org.uk Your support will be gratefully received. Councillor Julia Soyke Mayor of Tunbridge Wells
Town’s Tories have tunnel vision Dr Alan Bullion’s comments on the Tunbridge Wells Conservatives [October 4] are pretty much on the mark. Woe betide those that err from the consensus. Perceived rebels or independent thinkers are not particularly welcome. Dr Bullion also referred to a clique within the
fighting to ensure that no woman will be held back because of gender inequalities and bias. Happy Birthday Emily! Dr Amanda Turner Via email
SUFFRAGETTE Emily Wilding Davison
group – how right he is. Amongst the hardworking councillors there also lurks the egoist and tunnel-visioned. It seems strange that those who have served for many years successfully are having their futures determined by a closed committee containing two recently elected fellow councillors. It speaks volumes for the control exerted by the group and the Conservative Party of Tunbridge Wells to weed out councillors who are a little freer in their thinking. Currently, the Conservatives are safe in Tunbridge Wells, and this is taken for granted and it is accepted that the electorate is happy for the group to have carte blanche to do as they wish within the borough. But this will not last. As a former member of the Tunbridge Wells Conservatives for 20 years, and as a councillor for 16 years, I witnessed the drastic decline of our membership and local support in the borough, but especially in the town. Perhaps the clique need to listen more to their backbenchers and constituents and allow a referendum on the Civic Centre to take place. More listening, less ego, please. Sean Lockhart Zürich
Pantomime comes early this year The last Full Council Meeting debating the extension to the Crescent Road car park descended into chaos as some councillors sought
to defer the debate to December 6, when the new Civic Centre and theatre will be considered. The debate was interrupted as council officials consulted the rulebook on deferral and councillors turned on each other in pantomime fashion as to whether Cllr McDermott had linked the car park extension with other project – ‘Oh yes he did, oh no he didn’t’ – until finally Cllr March said publicly on record that Cllr McDermott ‘does run off at the mouth… and says things without really thinking them through’. Cllr March then became increasingly exercised that the public should not know the cost, payback period or method of financing for this development. Cllr Barrington-King, Chairman of the Joint Transport Board, abstained, and ex-Mayor David Neve walked out in disgust after the vote. How can residents have a meaningful conversation with their councillors without knowing the cost of a major development? The evidence to support this proposal was incomplete and the standard of the contribution from many councillors was poor. And just to show how out of touch our councillors are, the £3.2million refurbishment of the Crescent Road car park will feature an astonishing zero number of electric car charging points. Charlotte Cowan Tunbridge Wells
River Lawn: Tonbridge’s Pantiles? In response to Cllr Base’s letter [October 4], if the only way to stop making cuts is to sell off prime pieces of land, what is the strategy for next year and after that? If it has come down to selling these peaches of Tonbridge’s riverside assets – and there can’t be many better ones left – and this is the only strategy Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council [TMBC] has, surely it will be unsustainable in the long term? River Lawn and River Walk could be Tonbridge’s answer to The Pantiles and make money for years to come with prudent planning and foresight, and make the town a more vibrant place. What other options were costed and considered for a medical centre? Can we see these? Holding the town to ransom with an argument like ‘it’s River Lawn or cuts’ totally misses the point and is frankly disgraceful. The point is surely how did the council come to be in this position in the first place? Surrounding councils in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks seem to be in a better position. To say this is political… well, that line is like listening to a broken record now and doesn’t wash. The fact is, we can see through the TMBC strategy and how very short-term it is. What next year? ‘Build on the Sportsground or cuts?’ ‘Sell Tonbridge Castle to the Hilton Group or cuts?’ Michael O’Driscoll Via email
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words
Calverley
Observations on life and more important things
SEEMS that attending funerals has turned into a dying art for some folk. Chatting to his friends in the post-death business (you can never plan too early), Calverley heard tales of the same people attending funerals regardless of who was the centre of attention. They turn up at the crematorium, sit through the service, find out where the wake is being held and then pop along for the free food and drink. And nobody questions them. After all, who wants to make a scene at a funeral when mourners can always claim they knew the deceased from way back and were too upset to talk about it? EVERYONE knows that trying to get a sit-down with the family GP can put up the old blood pressure. Which means it is pretty galling when you eventually pop into the local surgery only to be confronted with a notice telling you how many patients failed to keep appointments. People who waste the valuable time of their doctor and block appointments should be flogged. OK, not flogged, but fined, unless they have a genuine excuse for failing to show up. CALVERLEY has to chuckle when apps go wrong. He is, after all, an absolute dinosaur when it comes to all things connected to that world (if it doesn’t have a lead, it can’t be any good). Last week he told how younger friends used an app to order drinks to be brought to their table at Wetherspoons. They did it again the other night but found themselves waiting and waiting. When they complained, the bar people said no order via app had been received. They insisted it had been sent. Staff insisted it had not arrived. Turns out they sent it via app to Wetherspoons in Tunbridge Wells. They were at Wetherspoons in Crowborough. OFF TO The Pantiles at the weekend for a slice of the real Tunbridge Wells – tea and cake. Because of the poor weather, Himself ended up sitting inside at a place called The Cake Shed (Rosemary Shrager’s patisserie has closed down). What a little gem it turns out to be. Lovely smiley people and genuine loose tea that comes with a strainer on a small dish plus milk in a tiny bottle. That’s style. (PS: No, they don’t advertise with us, so this unbiased.) Chin, chin readers
Education
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
EDUCATION Times WITH THE
Young lessons in how to create a future generation of innovators Rose Hill preparatory school celebrated their latest STEAM week with Chinook helicopter simulators, sports cars and transplant surgery… THE town’s Rose Hill School has just completed their annual STEAM event – a week of activity-focused learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics subjects.
Impact The week was co-ordinated by 7M Form Tutor Richard Mansfield and Head of Science & Design Technology Barry Izzard, who said: “These disciplines have a direct impact upon our daily lives. “However, we are facing a skills gap and we need to inspire pupils to study STEAM subjects. The modern world is driven by data and technology, and it is imperative that we give our pupils the tools necessary not only to cope but to excel in the
FULL STEAM AHEAD: Rose Hill pupils enjoyed a full week of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics lessons and talks ever-changing world we live in.” The week included visits from BMW to showcase the new i8 (£100,000worth of electric car), a Chinook
helicopter simulator, a lecture on heart transplantation from a Great Ormond Street doctor and a whole host of team-building exercises to
create bridges; evacuate casualties; erect shelters; make parachutes and change wheels. A school spokesperson said: “All pupils, ranging from three year olds to those aged 13, were involved in activities using teamwork, critical thinking, communication and experimentation to solve the challenges.” Rose Hill’s new Head, Emma Neville, added: “The end results of a week like this is that pupils who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problemsolving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process will become the innovators, educators, leaders and learners of the future. “We have had a wonderful week and STEAM is an important part of our ongoing curriculum.”
NEWS
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Nursery celebrates top research achievement THE team at Little Rascals Nursery in Tunbridge Wells have beaten 40 other early years practitioners to win a research accolade at the Threads of Success Improvement and Achievement Award ceremony in Maidstone. The event recognised the commitment by nurseries and pre-schools across Kent to complete an action research project.
Unusual The one undertaken by the Little Rascals team focused on non-verbal communication with babies and toddlers and looked critically at their own practice and environment to ultimately improve the quality of outcomes for Kent’s children. Nursery Manager Sarah Cramp said: “Our research was unusual as it focused on communication with really young children, and it has really enabled us to tune into our babies and toddlers.” Little Rascals Nurseries were rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2016 in both of their locations in the town.
WINNERS: (l-r) Little Rascals owner Esther Green and Manager Sarah Cramp with KCC’s Head of Early Years & Childcare, Alex Gamby, and Early Years Improvement Advisor, Joy Sharpe
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NEWS
Weekly Comment
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Greg Clark
MP for Tunbridge Wells
Greg Clark was first elected to Parliament as a representative of Tunbridge Wells in 2005. The Conservative MP has since held a number of positions in Government and currently sits as a member of the Cabinet in his capacity as Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy
Why the A21 Pembury bypass is only the beginning “SO, what’s next?” It’s a question I’ve been asked a lot recently, now the A21 flows fast and free. The truth is we’ve only just started… As I wrote last month, the day before its official opening, the next stage of the A21 campaign is to get the section between the Blue Boys Roundabout and Lamberhurst upgraded. So I want to take this opportunity to set out where we are. In January last year, the Hastings MP, Amber Rudd, and I met with the Transport Secretary to remind him that – as delighted as we were with the new road – we didn’t see Tonbridge to Pembury as the end of our campaign. We made clear our vision of a modern dual carriageway running from Sevenoaks to Hastings, one which befits the main link between the M25 and south coast. Two months later, on a freezing March morning, Amber and I took the roads minister for a drive to show him what is needed. We met in Tonbridge before travelling along the A21 to Lamberhurst so he could see for himself the need for the further works – and yes, we were stuck in traffic! The trip must have left a lasting impression because earlier this year a report by Highways England acknowledged there are important safety
DRIVING FORCE Campaigning MPs Greg Clark (right) and Amber Rudd take previous roads minister Andrew Jones down the A21
issues, congestion and a restriction in capacity on the route. This report will be considered by the roads minister and Transport Secretary as part of the Government’s Road Investment Strategy, a plan which informs which main roads will be upgraded between 2020 and 2025. Since the General Election, there’s another roads minister and, just as I did with each of his predecessors, I will be meeting him later this month,
Mark Hood Vice-Chairman of the Tonbridge & Malling Green Party
‘We made clear our vision of a modern dual carriageway running from Sevenoaks to Hastings’ setting out the case for further investment to make the next section of the A21 a priority. Again, as before, I will be working with the whole community as well as businesses, councillors and
MPs along the whole route. We’ll be pushing to make our case. We’ll be scrutinising proposals across the country, ensuring our cause is never undersold. There’ll be meetings, events, letters and consultations – and I daresay I’ll be taking the new minister for a spin, too! One of the most powerful things in any debate about priorities are the personal stories which illustrate a point, and that’s where I need your help now. When at the end of the month I meet the roads minister, I want to go armed with accounts of the missed opportunities and wasted hours so I can convey the very real need for this work. Whether you be someone who travels between Blue Boys and Lamberhurst, all the way to Hastings, or somewhere in between, I want to hear from you. If you have loved ones or clients put off travelling the other way, I want to hear from you. Or if it has any other impact on your life, I want to hear from you. The story of the Tonbridge to Pembury dualling is that persistence pays. I’m sure there’ll be ups and downs, setbacks as well as advances. But, as with the Castle Hill section, I will not rest until I see the bulldozers start work. Together we can drive this through.
Mark Hood has established the Barden Residents’ Association, is a founder member of Keep River Lawn Green and campaigned to save the Barden Boatyard and River Lawn from development. He is one of the organisers of the Tonbridge Calling festival
Tonbridge’s council must invest in property, not sell it LOCAL government is facing new challenges in the light of the Central Government Revenue Grant coming to an end and the New Homes Bonus being reduced for all authorities. Councils are confronted with a change in their funding which they must adapt to. They will be able to keep the revenues from business rates but they are expected to take on further responsibilities, too.
‘Leasing its property rather than selling will ensure a revenue stream rather than a one-off windfall’ Some councils such as Sevenoaks District Council [SDC] have embarked on a course which involves acquiring a large portfolio of properties and actually taking on the role of a developer. They are about to start construction on a new hotel close to Sevenoaks railway station. In order to fund services, they are creating a revenue stream which will also allow them to set a realistic council tax for their residents. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council are adopting a similar policy, and their property portfolio is increasing. So what about Tonbridge & Malling
Borough Council [TMBC]? So far, the executive has failed to come to terms with the change in circumstances facing local authorities. Faced with a £1.6million funding gap, the council has been reducing its reserves to help limit the burden placed on council taxpayers – and in contrast to its neighbours, it is reducing its property holdings, notably at River Lawn and River Walk. This is not a sustainable option as it only has a finite supply of property to sell. It is time to change direction at Kings Hill, as Councillor Margaret Carr of SDC says: “If we had told our members ten years ago that they would be the proud owners of a petrol station, a supermarket, a former working men’s club and hotel, we would have been met with expressions of disbelief and caution. However, they realised that doing nothing was the worst of all options.” TMBC are looking to invest proceeds from property sales in property funds which will yield very modest returns in comparison to taking a more proactive role itself. In the past, TMBC has been hailed for its prudent financial model, but now the landscape has shifted it has to adapt before its reserves have been squandered on subsidising a failing business strategy. It needs to acquire property development expertise. It could start by marketing its property in River
THE WRONG PATH The council Cabinet have voted to sell River Lawn off to build flats Walk as a potential riverside destination for visitors. It would make a fantastic small hotel, restaurant or bar – and bring in revenue in the same manner that The Black Boy pub at the Bligh’s development is leased successfully by SDC to Shepherd Neame. Leasing its property rather than selling will ensure a revenue stream rather than a one-off
windfall. Taking a proactive role in the local property market also allows some control over the future of neglected sites, such as the empty building at Bank Street and the Gateway Café at Town Lock, which still sits unoccupied. A change in emphasis and proactive intervention in urban development can be of massive benefit to both the council and its citizens.
Christmas Special Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
FEATURES
29
Experience the magic of Christmas at our three venues… Continued on page 30 >
Salomons Estate
one warwick park
bewl water
Grade II listed Victorian grandeur Within 36 acres
Where contemporary elegance meets functional design
800 acres of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Located less than 10 minutes from the centre of Tunbridge Wells lies Salomons Estate which provides the perfect setting for a traditional Christmas with your close ones. Set in an impressive 36 acres of stunning gardens our Country House offers something for everyone this Christmas from party nights to delicious Christmas dining, Salomons Estate truly captures the magic of Christmas.
Located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, a stone’s throw from the famous Pantiles, One Warwick Park Hotel has Christmas and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up for you this year. From dazzling party nights, to festive meals and plenty of merriment for you, family, friends and colleagues to enjoy- make sure you have yourself a merry little Christmas at One Warwick Park Hotel this year!
Spend your Christmas at Bewl Water, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of the High Weald. With the beautiful reservoir and the scenic rustic woodland Bewl truly comes alive at Christmas. Take in the stunning panoramic views whilst you enjoy a delicious traditional Christmas Lunch and all the trimmings, perched over the water’s edge.
ADDRESS: Broomhill Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TG TEL: 01892 515 152 EMAIL: reservations@salomons-estate.com WEBSITE: www.salomons-estate.com
ADDRESS: 1 Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells,
ADDRESS: Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent TN3 8JH TEL: 01892 890 000 EMAIL: info@bewlwater.co.uk WEBSITE: www.bewlwater.co.uk
Kent TN2 5TA TEL: 01892 520 587 EMAIL: info@onewarwickpark.co.uk WEBSITE: www.onewarwickpark.co.uk
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FEATURES
Christmas Special Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Salomons Estate: Believe in the magic of Christmas A GRAND CELEBRATION
Believe in the magic of Christmas this year at Salomons Estate. Christmas is a time to come together and to celebrate with those we love, and there’s no place to do it. From the themed party nights to an exceptional Christmas day lunch, there is something for everyone here at Salomons Estate.
Christmas Party Nights
Gather your friends and colleagues, and head to Salomons Estate for one of their themed party nights. The Hollywood Glamour theme celebrates the glitz and glamour of the city of lights – feel like a star as you try your luck on the casino tables. For those who would rather dance the night away, then ‘Disco trough the Decades’ is perfect for you. The dance floor is sure to be packed when everyone’s favourite floor fillers come on. From £37 per head
ADDRESS: Broomhill Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TG • TEL: 01892 515 152 • WEBSITE: www.salomons-estate.com
Christmas Day
Hang up your apron and let Salomons take care of all the hard work for you. Sit back, relax and enjoy Christmas day with the family in the stunning surroundings of the 36 acre estate. Enjoy a glass of chilled Bucks Fizz on arrival before indulging in a delectable four-course carvery lunch, and receive a festive gift for all the family. You can head off for a Christmas day walk around the scenic grounds with your loved ones afterwards. £69per adult, £34 per child (12 and under), £17 per child (5 and under) After a day of festivities, enjoy a relaxing Boxing Day at Salomon’s Estate and tuck into a delicious Boxing Day brunch and take a leisurely stroll around the frost-covered grounds - the ideal way to round off a perfect Christmas. From £12 per person, including a glass of Bucks Fizz Why not book a two night festive stay which includes Christmas day Lunch, Boxing Day brunch with Bucks Fizz and a late check out on Monday. From £295.00 Continued on page 67 >
WEST KENT’S ULTIMATE PROPERTY GUIDE – FREE EVERY WEDNESDAY A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BUY, LET OR SELL
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32
FEATURES
Property Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
The generation that needs help to buy By Hannah Patterson YOUNG people are taking part in one of the biggest inter-generational debates going – how much easier it was for their parents to buy a house than it currently is for them. They will shout and scream that they need a £35,000 deposit while paying extortionate rates for rent, and some will snap back that they should stop wasting money on brunch and travelling. Yes, wages are higher, but so is the cost of living, and the standards that need to be met in order to get a foot on the ladder are increasingly less attainable. The banks have learnt their lesson, and are no longer handing out high mortgages with little security.
WE LOOK AT FOUR REAL-LIFE CASE STUDIES INVOLVING LOCAL RESIDENTS AND THE CHALLENGES OF BUYING THEIR FIRST HOME CASE STUDY ONE: Local resident Thomas, a man in his 50s, bought his first home at the age of 27 with his then wife. The property was a two-bedroom terraced house in Crowborough, which they purchased inn 1987 for £35,000 with a joint annual salary of £40,000. “Interest rates were high back then,” Thomas says. “I recall they were as high as 5%, but we were at an advantage as my wife worked for a bank. They gave us a rate of 1% and our monthly payments were £90. My annual salary was £30,000 at the time.” Prior to buying, Thomas was renting in St John’s Road in Tunbridge Wells for £80 per month.
with his parents. His current annual wage is £24,000 per annum, he pays £250 per month in rent, and has saved £20,000 over the past five years. Michael isn’t expecting an inheritance or gift, so his only hope of being able to buy is to save. Does he see owning his own property as an attainable goal? “Yes, but not nearly as attainable as it should be. I’m almost 30 and have never lived out of my parents’ homes, with the exception of university, because house prices and deposits are generally unaffordable for young professionals who are single in this area.”
COUNTING THE PENNIES With the cost of living and renting, it’s so hard to save
CASE STUDY TWO: Lianne, 28, and Robert, 31, are currently renting a one-bedroom garden flat in High Brooms. Their joint salary is £51,000 per year and they pay £725 per month in rent, excluding bills. They are hoping to buy within the next year. This year, after the death of a relative, Lianne and Robert were left a significant sum of money that would help with buying a house. “We’re hoping this sum will cover stamp duty and legal fees, but we’re still a long way off from having the minimum to cover this,” says Lianne. “In the last year, we’ve both worked really hard to improve our job prospects to raise our joint income, so we were in a better position to buy.” By cutting costs significantly, they are able to save £300 in a good month.
“Our rent is so high, and so is the cost of living, that finding spare cash is very hard. We’ve been informed that our monthly payments for a mortgage on a two-bedroom house would come out roughly the same as our present rent.” When asked if she believed it was possible to buy without being in a committed relationship, she replied: “Absolutely not. Trying to get a mortgage on a single income must be near impossible, at least not for an amount that you could afford to buy anything.” CASE STUDY THREE: High Brooms resident Michael is one such person looking to buy his own property without a second income. Like many single twentysomethings saving for their first home, he lives
CASE STUDY FOUR: Rusthall resident Lucy is one young professional who was able to buy on her single income in the area, prior to moving into a two-bedroom house with her partner and baby. The property was a one-bedroom ground floor flat with a courtyard garden in the centre of Rusthall, which she purchased for £163,000 and sold for £179,500. Lucy was 29 at the time of purchase, and on an annual salary of £37,000. She raised a deposit by saving over three years and having support from the Help to Buy scheme. “The biggest struggle was saving. In order to save enough, I had to move in with my parents to make any kind of progress.” With that struggle in mind, does she think home ownership will be more or less attainable in the future? “Less attainable,” she replies. “Property prices are so high in the area versus wages and cost of living. It makes it difficult to get a mortgage, along with high rental prices. Saving for a large enough deposit is an increasing struggle.”
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FEATURES
Advertorial
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
The first-time hunt It’s no secret that the Kent is a much sought-after location for those looking to get their foot on the property ladder. A hotspot for investors and buy-to-let seekers, the area can attract fierce competition. But with the local market remaining buoyant, there are always some treasures to be found. Here, we look at just a handful of ideal properties to get you off the ground…
SOUTHWOOD ROAD is located in the leafy area of the village of Rusthall. As a no-through road, it is would suit those who prefer a quieter home life. Rusthall is very popular, with plenty of shops, eateries, takeaways and a primary school. It is serviced by regular bus services to Tunbridge Wells centre, though you can always opt for a picturesque, leisurely stroll if you fancy it.
SOUTHWOOD ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS
One-bedroom cluster house
the social buyer who loves to play host. Up on the first floor, there is a good size double bedroom and a bathroom with a shower over bath. Outside, the spacious garden offers plenty of room for summer barbecues.
If you have a little more budget to play with and fancy more space, this is an excellent choice. The ground floor boasts an open-plan lounge/ kitchen that would very much suit
The property is available for sale through KMJ Property Tunbridge Wells 01892 515188 www.kmjproperty.co.uk
£230,000
The landscape of Tonbridge has been changing in recent years as more young professionals and families make the move to Kent from London. With a fast and regular train service to the capital, the town has become top of many would-be buyers’ lists. MEDWAY WHARF ROAD runs right along the side of the river, where plenty of apartments have sprouted up. Located just off the High Street, it boasts access to an array of shops, eateries and watering holes.
DUDLEY ROAD has the advantage of being a quiet side road, in the middle of the hustle and bustle of town. Lined with pretty terraced houses, some converted to apartments, this street is a favourite for those who desire location above all else. Less than a mile from the mainline station, it is ideal for those who want to make that commute to London a little bit simpler. And with Royal Victoria Place shopping centre on your doorstep, as well as every possible amenity, there isn’t much lacking here. DUDLEY ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£195,000 One-bedroom apartment This small but comfortable one-bedroom apartment is conveniently offered as top of the chain, making the process of buying that bit smoother – ideal if this is your first time going through the motions. One of the major selling points is it has its own private garden – very handy if you’re the social type or value privacy. The lounge is spacious with attractive features such as a cast iron fireplace and a doubleglazed, sash bay window. The fitted kitchen provides access to the courtyard, and there is a separate double bedroom and bathroom. The property is available for sale through Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk
DUDLEY ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£174,950 One-bedroom apartment New builds are everywhere these days, but if you’re after something with a little more character, this converted Victorian apartment is for you. Some of the original features are still intact, including moulded
plasterwork in the reception rooms. The property is tastefully decorated and comprises one bedroom, a kitchenette and a bathroom. This is the perfect purchase for any commuter or first-time buyer. This property is available for sale through Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk
MEDWAY WHARF ROAD TONBRIDGE
£195,000 One-bedroom apartment This property also has the benefit of not having any kind of chain, which will be very helpful for those who are looking for a quick and easy move. The apartment is positioned on the third floor, offering far-reaching views over the town from its private balcony. The fitted kitchen is packed
with all manner of modern appliances for the chefs among you. In addition to the living area, there is a double bedroom and a bathroom with a modern white suite. This is also a real gem for those who don’t fancy much DIY, as it has all been completely redecorated. The property is available for sale through Barnes Kingsnorth Tonbridge 01732 771616 www.bkestateagents.com
Advertorial
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
FEATURES
36
A helping hand for would-be buyers To help the increasing number of first-time buyers struggling to get on the property ladder, the government took steps to assist with the process. Although this has met with mixed responses, many people now own their own homes as a result. We give a run-down of the schemes, and some Kent developments offering sales through them “My girlfriend received an unexpected gift from her parents while we were home hunting, so we could buy earlier than expected,” he says. “Opening the account was easy, and our solicitor took care of claiming the bonus. It was only £250 in the end, which isn’t much in the grand scheme of home-buying, but every little helps!”
Shared ownership
Help to buy ISA account
This specialised account it available from most banks, building societies and credit unions within the UK. The aim is simple – to give your savings a boost. For every £200 you save or deposit into the ISA account, the government will donate a bonus of £50. There is a maximum bonus of £3,000, however, so once you’ve received that amount, their payments will cease. This scheme is available for every first-time buyer, so if you are purchasing with a partner or friend, then you can receive up to £6,000 towards your first home if you both set up accounts. In order to claim the government bonus when you are ready to buy, you will need to instruct your solicitor or conveyancer to apply for it. Liam from Tunbridge Wells opened his ISA account before buying a one-bedroom flat in the centre of town with his girlfriend in 2016. He received a £250 government bonus.
Pentland Homes
This is for those who can’t quite afford the mortgage on 100 per cent of the home. This is a more attainable option for those looking to get a little foot-up on their journey towards their own home. It offers the opportunity to buy 25 to 75 per cent of your first home, with the possibility of buying a larger share when you are in a position to do so. You could be eligible for shared ownership in England if you live outside London and your household earns less than £80,000 per annum, you’re a first-time buyer but can’t afford to buy one now, or are already in an existing shared ownership deal. Tunbridge Wells resident Marcus used the scheme to purchase his share of a two-bedroom apartment in the town centre. “After being divorced for over ten years, and living in many different locations during that period, I was thankful to be offered an apartment on the government’s Shared Ownership Scheme,” he says. “I managed to cover the minimum investment of a 30 per cent mortgage, and the
As one of Kent’s leading developers, Pentland Homes have become a reputable name in the industry. With their roots stretching all the way back to the 1960s, they have seen considerable growth over the years thanks to their commitment to
building contemporary new homes of the highest quality. Currently, they have six developments spread across popular locations in Kent, including Ashford and Canterbury, with a further four sites that will be available soon. www.pentlandhomes.co.uk
remaining 70 per cent was taken up by rent to the Housing Association. However, I have had a few issues in the ‘staircasing’ process (whereby you can purchase incremental percentages until, eventually, you own the whole property). “On the whole, though, the experience has been a positive one, and I would recommend it to anyone in a similar position to myself.”
Equity loan
Only an option for new developments, this is for those who have a small deposit and wish to own their home outright. The government lend you anywhere up to 20 per cent of your home’s value loan fee-free for the first five years of ownership. As an example, a new build with a £350,000 price tag could be paid for with a £35,000 deposit, a £245,000 mortgage and a £70,000 government loan. Kent has become a thriving area for new
developments, and there are plenty of options available for those who are looking to take advantage of such a loan.
Millwood Designer Homes
Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director John and Jeff Elliott are so confident in their builds that they live in their very own Millwood Designer Homes. The company is renowned for its large properties modelled on traditional 15th and 16th-century Yeoman-style farmhouses once so common in the Kent and Sussex Weald. Currently they have nine developments across Kent, Sussex and Surrey, the largest being Windsor Meadow in Marden, Kent – a collection of 86 homes comprising a mix of 2 and 3-bedroom terraced and semi-detached homes and 3, 4 and 5-bedroom detached homes. www.millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk
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PROPERTY
To suit your budget
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Your at-a-glance guide to WITH THE
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Pick up your edition at the following stations Tunbridge Wells Tonbridge Wadhurst Hildenborough Paddock Wood High Brooms
DRUM & MONKEY COTTAGE HORSMONDEN £735,000
To feature a property or to place an advert please call: Jemma Rose 01892 240 625
Alternatively you can contact the Times of Tunbridge Wells in the following ways 01892 779 624 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1NU
UNDER £300,000
newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
CROFT HOUSE TONBRIDGE
f facebook.com/timeslocalnews k twitter.com/timeslocalnews L timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
£255,000 One of 15 brand new bespoke apartments located in the centre of Tonbridge, convenient for the High Street shops and cafes, the mainline station with frequent services to London and the coast, the sportsgound and the public
swimming pool. Apartment 6 is one of nine remaining flats, and comprises a living/dining room and kitchen, two bedrooms, a hallway and a bathroom. The modern kitchen is open-plan, forming an L shape and has a striking black and white colour scheme. CONTACT Bracketts 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk
UNDER £450,000 BISHOPS OAK RIDE TONBRIDGE
GUIDE PRICE
£395,000-£410,000 A semi-detached three bedroom house in an established residential area in the north of the town. Extended in 2004, there is now an additional reception room and extra
guest bedroom. The property also has an enclosed rear garden and onsite parking for two cars. Believed to have been built in the 1950s, it has double glazing, gas-fired central heating and cavity wall insulation. The garden can be accessed from the sitting room or the side lobby. CONTACT Bracketts 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk
To suit your budget
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
PROPERTY
39
great properties by price range… UNDER £550,000 THE COPPER KETTLE HIGH STREET, ROTHERFIELD
OIRO
£500,000
Set in a pretty village, this Grade II listed end-of-terrace cottage is arranged over three floors and has been adapted to include a living room with triple-aspect windows, a kitchen with oak flooring and exposed beams, a wood laminate floor in the dining room and a rear lobby with underfloor heating. There are three bedrooms, and ouside there is a decked area with lighting as well as external power and a garden shed. CONTACT Wood & Pilcher 01892 665666 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk
UNDER £600,000 OAKWOOD COTTAGE, PENSHURST
GUIDE PRICE
£525,000 A four-bedroom house in a picturesque village. The accommodation comprises an entrance hall with coat cupboard, living room with cast iron wood burner and double doors to the garden, plus a dining room with a fireplace. There is also a kitchen, separate utility area, cloakroom and storage cupboard under the stairs. The bathroom has been recently upgraded and the large rear garden includes a decked area. CONTACT Andrews 01892 515144 www.andrewsonline.co.uk
UNDER £750,000
UNDER £1MILLION
DRUM & MONKEY COTTAGE HORSMONDEN
BROADWATER DOWN TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£925,000
£735,000 A Grade II listed partweatherboarded cottage that was once part of a pub, and is approached via a gravel driveway. The property includes a shaker-style kitchen, two reception rooms and four bedrooms, two located on the first floor and two in the attic. Features include an inglenook
fireplace and a wood-burning stove. Outside it also has the benefit of attractive gardens. CONTACT Firefly Properties 01892 838363 www.fireflyproperties.co.uk
A well-arranged four-bedroom home with outlooks towards a church. The double height, split-level entrance hall has polished wood flooring and stairs to a galleried landing. The kitchen/ breakfast room connects to the study and a conservatory. There is an L-shaped family dining room and a drawing room. One of the bedrooms is en suite and there is a family bathroom. Outside, there is a garden, a wide terrace, a garage and off-road parking. CONTACT Hamptons 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Calverley Park Crescent
PROPERTY
47
AT A GLANCE CALVERLEY PARK CRESCENT TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Central location n Grade II listed n Part of Decimus Burton’s Calverley Park estate n Canopied entrance n Entrance hall n Stylish kitchen n Dining room n Sitting room opening to balcony n Double bedroom n Master bedroom suite n Cloakroom n Study n Double bedroom with en suite n Utility room n Cloakroom n Communal gardens n Private residents’ parking
GUIDE PRICE
£965,000
Available for sale through Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk
An iconic Decimus Burton townhouse in a central location adjacent to Calverley Park
52
PROPERTY
The Kestrels
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
AT A GLANCE THE KESTRELS HORSMONDEN n Oast conversion from a Grade II listed building understood to date from the 19th century n Cloakroom n Living room n Kitchen/dining room n Galleried mezzanine reception room overlooking living room, currently used as a study/bedroom 5 n 4 bedrooms n Family bathroom n Shower room n Patio area n Kitchen garden n Garage n Outside power points n Pedestrian right of way n Pathway leading to communal area with small woodland and pond n Garage
ÂŁ650,000-ÂŁ675,000 Available for sale through Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk
An imaginative oast house conversion enjoying far-reaching rural outlooks
The Kestrels incorporates one of the rear square kilns and part of the barn
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PROPERTY
Advertising
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Birch Tree House
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
PROPERTY
57
AT A GLANCE BIRCH TREE HOUSE LANGTON GREEN n Arranged over 3 floors, some with underfloor heating n Hallway n TV room n Drawing room with open fire feature fireplace n Galleried landing n Rear terrace n Kitchen n 28ft split-level kitchen/dining room n Cloakroom and boot/ shoe storage room n Master suite with French doors, Juliet balcony, fitted dressing room and wet room shower n 6 further bedrooms (one en suite) n 3 further bathrooms and separate WC n Cinema room n Block-paved driveway n Ample parking and large integral garage with utility area n Large garden laid to lawn n Paved terrace
This lovely designer residence has the benefit of a third of an acre plot and a peaceful woodland backdrop
n Wood storage shed
OIEO
ÂŁ1,495,000
Available for sale through Maddisons Residential Tunbridge Wells 01892 514100 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk
A stylish, thoroughly modern home with a state-of-the-art cinema room
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PROPERTY
Advertising
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Christmas Special Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
FEATURES
67
One Warwick Park Hotel: CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S ALL WRAPPED UP CONTEMPORARY CHRISTMAS
This Christmas One Warwick Park Hotel invites you to celebrate in style and luxury, just the way it should be!
Christmas Party Nights
In the run up to Christmas, they will be hosting their glamorous Christmas party nights, offering an exceptional three course festive meal and plenty of merriment for your friends and colleagues. They make the perfect end of year celebration. From £38.00 per head
Christmas Dining
Whether you are celebrating with friends, family or colleagues, L’AMORE offers exceptional dining and a special experience. Accommodating both large and small groups, guests can indulge in a delicious meal including a number of exclusive Christmas specials. Enjoy an intimate occasion with your nearest and dearest, whilst absorbing the ambience of L’AMORE by booking their luxury private dining area.
Dine with Santa
This year they have a very special visitor dining with them on 17th December, and he wants you to join him and his helpful elves for a magical experience in L’AMORE. Enjoy a festive three course dinner suitable for the whole family, as Santa makes his way around to hear your stories and Christmas wish list so he can start preparing for his busiest time of the year! With a sweet treat and a photo opportunity for every child, Santa will bring lots of festive cheer this year. Sunday 17th December 12-4pm, £25.00 per adult £10.00 per child (booking essential)
Christmas Day
Christmas is a time for family, so join us at One Warwick Park Hotel where we will take care of all the hard work so you can sit back, relax and make the most of that cherished family time. Enjoy a chilled glass of
Prosecco upon arrival as well as a special gift for your family, before indulging in a five course Christmas lunch. Let yourself be taken care of this year. £85 per adult, £42 children(12 and under) £21 children (under 5).
New Year’s Eve
Raise a glass and toast the New Year at L’AMORE! Start the night with a chilled glass of bubbles on arrival before taking your seat to enjoy an enchanting eight course tasting menu that’s sure to excite and delight, accompanied by live music and plenty of festive merriment until 1am. Welcome in the New Year with a Champagne toast at midnight and celebrate into the early hours. Why not take advantage of their private dining area for groups of 16, and make this New Year’s Eve one to remember. £95.00 per person
From £18.00 per person ADDRESS: 1 Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TA • TEL: 01892 520 587 • WEBSITE: www.onewarwickpark.co.uk
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FEATURES
Christmas Special Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
BEWL WATER: BRINGING MAGIC TO THE WATER A NATURAL CHOICE
Bewl Water is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, especially at Christmas time! It is a special time of year, with the stunning reservoir and icy, and rustic woodlands. It is the perfect location for a festive walk, especially before or after tucking into a delicious Christmas dinner! This Christmas, spend your day with Bewl Water and head to the beautiful Boat House Bistro for a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, without the hassle or washing up! Perched over the water’s edge with incredible panoramic views of Bewl Water, you and the whole family can enjoy a thoroughly festive experience. You will be greeted with a refreshing glass of Prosecco you can sip on as you take in the magnificent views before tucking into a delicious three course meal. After a day of celebrations and indulgence, why not head out, wrap some extra layers on and head out for a leisurely Christmas Walk around the reservoir. Make this Christmas a special one and join the team at Bewl Water.
ADDRESS: Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent TN3 8JH • TEL: 01892 890 000 • WEBSITE: www.bewlwater.co.uk
Christmas Experience
Father Christmas and his elves return to Bewl Water this December for a magical Christmas Experience. As well as meeting Father Christmas in his waterside grotto, youngsters will have the chance to embark on a treasure hunt aboard the Santa Express land train to help the resident elves find their missing Christmas items. “Father Christmas enjoyed his stay at Bewl Water so much last year, he insisted he had to return,” said Andrew Daniells, Chief Operating Officer at Markerstudy Leisure, owners of Bewl Water. “Unfortunately, his elves have mislaid a lot of items that make Christmas such a magical time and they need as much help as possible to track them all down.” The Waterfront Café will be open for warming drinks and snacks for children and grown ups alike. The Bewl Water Christmas Experience is open on December 9, 10, 16 and 17 and from December 21-24 inclusive. Tickets cost £16 per child, including a gift from Father Christmas, and £8 per adult. Booking is essential and can be done online via www.bewlwater.co.uk/whats-on
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Food & Drink
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Try a true taste of France As well as launching an online shop, Fromage & French is now open weekend evenings so customers can sit and sip samples from their new state-of-the-art wine dispensing machines. Eileen Leahy caught up with owner Gaëlle Coyle to find out all about her grape expectations and love of the finer things in life
WINE TIME Gaëlle Coyle and her new wine machines
S
ince opening its ‘petit et bijou’ shop on Tunbridge Wells High Street in 2016 Fromage & French has been the go-to gastronomic destination for passionate Francophile foodies. As its name would suggest cheese is the big draw here but Fromage & French’s smart wooden floor to ceiling shelves are also
filled with all manner of other Gallic delights including exotic salad dressings, delicious condiments, luxury sweet treats and also a smattering of niche French beauty products. There’s also now a small dining area at the back of the shop where freshly made sandwiches can be enjoyed during the day against a backdrop of French
recipe books, gadgets and cheese boards all for sale. In short, walking into Fromage & French is a decadent delight, not just for the senses, but for those who want a slice of la vie Française without having to cross the Channel. And now its owner Gaëlle Coyle has added another interesting dimension to her beloved boutique by offering a variety of French wines which can be sampled ‘sur place’ courtesy of the two state of the art wine dispensers she has invested in. So what gave her the idea to launch a ‘sit and sip’ service in her store? “Our wine supplier is a guy called Chris who runs his own wholesale importing business called Department 33, named after the French region of Bordeaux,” Gaëlle explains. “In February this year he asked if I’d like to accompany him to a wine festival in Montpellier. I agreed and one evening we went to a bar where they had these wine machines. I’d never seen them before but thought they were amazing. We returned there the following evening and Chris said ‘what if we go into business together? Cheese and wine, it’s a perfect pairing’. It obviously made total sense, especially as
FRENCH FANCY Fromage & French on Tunbridge Wells High Street
Food & Drink
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
‘Walking into Fromage & French is a delight for those who want a slice of la vie Française’ there is nothing else like this that exists in Tunbridge Wells.” After being granted a licence and permission to extend Fromage & French’s opening hours the shop’s shiny new Wine Emotion machines – which are Italian designed and made – were sourced and installed. Chris then got to work on selecting a range of wines which customers could enjoy sampling, ensuring a good selection of price points and grape varieties. “Chris is very discerning and really knows his wines importing mainly from small French family vineyards around Bordeaux,” adds Gaëlle. “But he’s also now expanded into the Languedoc Roussillon region and the Rhone and Burgundy.” Looking into the gleaming machines, where I spy a Mâcon Péronne de Bourgogne and a Cuvée Le Castel from Domaine d’Alary, Cahors, these dispensers mean serious business. The spec is
high tech with digital temperature settings and a clever oxidising system in place. Gaëlle, who was born in France’s Auvergne region but has lived in the UK for 30 years, reveals how it all works: “We have one machine with eight reds in it and they’re kept at roughly 17 degrees. The other machine is refrigerated and has six white wines and two rosés kept at about five to six degrees. There’s an oxygen generator downstairs so when people help themselves to a glass, the dispensed wine is replaced by nitrogen so it stops the remaining wine from oxidising. The manufacturer says wines can be stored up to four weeks in the machines without affecting the taste but we only keep ours for around two to three due to demand.” There are a number of ways customers can use the machines: “You can pay 75p for a sample which will give you a couple of mouthfuls or you can buy wines by the glass. Prices for this vary from £6 for an entry level wine up to £12 for a large glass of Margaux although if you’re going to have a couple of glasses it’s probably more cost effective to buy a bottle.” In total Gaëlle has around 75 to 80 wines on offer but to my surprise they’re not all French. “We have the odd New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and some Portuguese and Spanish wines too – we call them the imposters,” she laughs. Gaëlle has also introduced a card system which can be pre-loaded with money or left blank and the total added up at the end of your sampling session. With their extended licensing hours on a Friday and Saturday Fromage & French have also started cheese and wine tasting evenings, at £20 a head with Chris hosting, as well as private parties. The snug space can take just under 20 people and
again there is flexibility on whether you just want to drink wine or ask Gaëlle and her team to negotiate on menus which include just nibbles or cheese platters or a selection of fondues. Every Tuesday Fromage & French do a selection of four different cheeses for a very appetising £7. “One woman comes in pretty much every week,” says Gaëlle. “She just loves cheese and if she doesn’t come in I worry!” Her impressive selection includes classics such as Brie de Meaux and Racelette as well as lesser known offerings like Saint Marcellin and Livarot. “Brie and Comté are by far the most popular,” she states. “A lot of our customers are passionate about cheese and know that what you find in the supermarket is not the real
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thing. Ours are made by artisan producers, hand ladled and unpasteurised.” If you don’t live in Tunbridge Wells fear not, as you can still get your hands on all of Fromage & French’s fancies thanks to the new online shop which will also offer free delivery in the TN1 and TN2 areas. It’s all a far cry from Gaëlle’s original career in publishing. “I have always wanted to do this - I even found a business plan I’d written about 15 years ago but I was made redundant, had children and then my husband died four years ago. And when things like that happen you just think ‘do you know what, you do only live once. What’s the worst that can happen? Oh, it already has…’ Something like that gives you a different perspective on life and I thought if I don’t do this I’ll regret it and if it all goes pear shaped at least I tried it.” Somehow I doubt that there’s little chance of her shutting up shop anytime soon.
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Advertising Feature
A unique approach to chocolate If you’ve been to The Pantiles over the summer, you would have noticed a new addition to the historic walks. Chocolatl is the coolest new place on the promenade, and offers something truly special to its customers. Hannah Patterson meets owners Brian O’Callaghan and Sarah James [pictured below] to find out how they plan to make your life just that little bit sweeter…
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Tell us what inspired you to open Chocolatl and how you got to where you are today? Sarah and I have been in the food industry together for a long time now. We met when we worked as a barman and waitress at the same pub. Oddly enough, neither of us ever intended to end up in this industry; Sarah had done a degree in English Literature and I had finished my training to become a commercial pilot. By luck, we were offered a couples’ management role in Leamington Spa and we just went for it – it’s a shame this didn’t come up before the expensive pilot training, though! We spent almost ten years in various locations around Leamington Spa, but eventually wanted to do something that was completely ours. Was chocolate an obvious choice? The true inspiration came from the Olympia Chocolate Show. We loved it so much we went two years in a row. It showcases chocolate in every possible form it could possibly come in. This is where our interest in pure and organic produce came from. There were so many suppliers there to learn from. I think it was the versatility of chocolate that fascinated me – and here we are now. If you already had a base in Leamington Spa, why move to Tunbridge Wells? We were originally trying to find a location around Leamington Spa, which is also a royal town, but we came down here to visit Sarah’s sister, who is local, and spotted this building while enjoying Jazz on The Pantiles. We instantly made some enquiries because we know what a find a spot on The Pantiles is. Evidently, we are drawn to places with the royal status! It was definitely more of a challenge for us to start fresh here, as opposed to staying in an area that we already had connections with, but we knew that the vibe here was perfect for what we were trying to achieve. It’s a very health-
‘We have had nutritionists coming here regularly to buy treats for their children, which is a great sign!’ conscious area and people are really proud of the food culture they have in Tunbridge Wells. We have had nutritionists coming here regularly to buy treats for their children, which is a great sign! Is it strange to think of a chocolate shop attracting the health-conscious? The great thing about chocolate is that it’s a health food in its natural state. We can’t ignore the stigma it carries of being an unhealthy food, but we can stay away from being grouped with the big brands that fill their chocolate with sugar and chemicals. Ultimately, chocolate is a healthy fat; we get a lot of people coming to us for diabeticfriendly treats or asking us for vegan or dairyfree products. We’ve got a new 100 per cent bar coming from Madagascar which I think the people of Tunbridge Wells will love! Real chocolate without the added sugar is amazing – its kind to teeth, releases endorphins and lifts your mood.
Advertising Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
In simple terms, what makes your chocolate better than the average commercial bar? It’s the close monitoring of the product from start to finish. A lot of people still don’t understand chocolate, but I think in general people are slowly becoming more conscious of how their food is produced. It’s all too easy to be far removed from the food we eat, and you can see things changing. It’s happened with coffee, for example, but I think chocolate is still at the beginning of that process. It’s an exciting prospect! We want people to take interest in where our chocolate is from. The harvesting, the drying, the turning, right through to the roasting and conching. Once you understand a little about the process, you start to enjoy and understand the flavour notes in every bar. With the key to your product being the high quality, do you use any local suppliers? For our new menu, absolutely! We are so blessed to have the Chegworth Valley Farm Shop on our doorstep. Their produce is second to none. Their COCKTAIL BRUNCH For that extra boost
tomatoes in particular – their taste and texture in our cacao chutney is delicious. The milk we use is from Northiam Farm – we visited them and the farmer explained the way he ensures he has ‘happy cows’. He called them in while we were there and they all ran over and lined up for him. I don’t think any of the big commercial players could compete with that kind of ethical production, which is something we, and our suppliers, are really proud of. Our coffee is sourced from a small company in London called Climpson Estate. The Head Trainer has visited the store and provided us with a wealth of knowledge on how to make the best coffee to work with our chocolate. We just want a menu that is both ethical and of the highest quality. It’s not all about cutting corners – it’s actually surprisingly easy to make good produce if you just invest in high-quality ingredients to start with. What can we expect to see on your menu? Chocolate! But in more forms than you can imagine. We had a group of ladies come in here the other day for brunch and they ended up trying our chocolate-enhanced gin cocktail. The concoction of our chocolate-infused cocktails have been a lot of fun. Menu-wise, there are plenty of savoury options where pure chocolate is used to highlight and accentuate certain textures and flavours. Our menu will be ever-changing as we are working with such a flexible base product, but we will listen to our customers so as to gauge an idea of their likes and dislikes.
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THE BEST BAR NONE? High-quality chocolate
A lot of focus at present is on the development of our breakfast offerings, our wine and chocolate pairings, and our new ice cream machine. Fondue is something we are very keen to introduce once we’ve worked out the logistics. Unfortunately, due to an unpleasant hairspray/ fondue incident, there is an apparent new EU ruling regarding naked flames in dining establishments, but we will be able to do items such as fondue brownies to serve to the table. We’ve also got passion fruit truffles with white chocolate coating coming in soon – I was surprised at how many people love white chocolate! What would you have if you were a customer? I couldn’t resist a cocktail. I’d probably go for something from the brunch menu, but with a cocktail – why not? Or perhaps our chicken mole – that’s probably my absolute favourite dish. It’s served with peanuts, dark chocolate, chipotle chilli spice and citrus-marinated red onions. At home we’ve got a freezer full of it, and it’s been keeping me going for a while now. I’d also have to try the chutney – the tomato, chilli and cacao nib
chutney is to die for. A hot chocolate is a must, too! An 80 per cent cocoa hot chocolate with a shot of rum is perfect in the winter. And what can people expect from the dining experience here? We went for Aztec meets Mexican. We loved the idea of mismatched chairs and geometric shapes and bright colours. There’s a place in Argentina called Las Bocas, and we took inspiration from the bright colours and shutters there. Sarah did that all herself and deserves the credit. It’s a listed building, so we needed to be careful, but we are so happy with how it’s turned out. It matches our branding perfectly – when our logo was designed we kept it in a sharp stencil geometric style. It’s welcoming, fresh and embodies the Chocolatl vibe. CONTACT CHOCOLATL 11 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TD
01892 457575 • www.chocolatl.com
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Advertorial Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Festive food picks PHOTO: Jez Timms, Torpedo Juice
With the Christmas fast approaching, we’ve rounded up some of the best local venues for your annual get together
Marlowe’s 1. What can people expect to see on your festive menu? At Marlowe’s, we firmly believe a burger is for life not just for Christmas, so you can expect to see our usual menu of 100% pure organic grass-fed Sussex beef patties and some new festive additions. As well as our usual burgers, which are stacked between springy brioche buns and dripping in melting cheese and special Marlowe sauce, we’ve just introduced The Black Beaut for the festive season – a black pudding and beef mix, topped with tangy blue cheese and a fried egg. It’s perfect for soaking up some of the season’s excess the morning after! Our real Christmas sparkler is, of course, the Brie & Cranberry special.
2. If you could only eat one meal from your festive menu, what would you choose and why? There are some things that just go so beautifully with Christmas, like mince pies and mulled wine, or Rudolph and Blitzen. It’s the same with our tangy and sweet cranberries oozing into melting Brie on one of our signature patties. That’s it. Simple, but I could eat it every day of the week. That’s when I’m not tucking into The Maj! We get lots of people questioning crisps in a burger – until they’ve tried it, then they’re hooked! 3. What is your favourite festive ingredient and why? I think I’ve got to say burgers at this point! I’m actually not a great fan of turkey, to be honest; I find it quite dry and would much rather have a Chicken Kiev. I like juicy, full of flavour food, which is why I’ll be opting for the Brie and cranberry festive combo. 4. To you, what defines festive food? Food that can be enjoyed together and food that satisfy people. Easy, no-fuss food that you can have with a few drinks and family around is always the best food. You want something that’s for all ages and flaunts real quality of ingredients and flavour without standing on ceremony. I think that’s why the burger bar is proving to be a popular Christmas party booking; it’s less about the turkey and tradition and more about the good times and festivities. That’s what it’s all about!
One Warwick Park 1. What can people expect to see on your festive menu? Lots of comforting, traditional Christmas food to warm you up on a cold winter’s day! The way we see it, it’s best to keep things traditional over the Christmas period and that’s why we’ve included roasted chestnuts, cranberries, red wine and Christmas pudding. You can’t go wrong with a good Christmas pudding! Having said that, we’ve kept things interesting and, in keeping with our Italian-inspired menu, we have enhanced many of our festive flavours with Parmesan, truffle and amaretto sauce. You can expect the merge of Christmas traditions and fresh Italian ingredients.
pancetta are such a perfect combination. I have to say, the vanilla panna cotta would be a close second – it comes with a festive quince compote and is delicious.
2. If you could only eat one meal from your festive menu, what would you choose and why? It would have to be the Confit Duck Leg with Brussels sprouts & pancetta, Parmentier patate and red wine jus’. It’s such a refreshing change from the usual roasted meats that we’re probably all a little tired off by now! Brussels sprouts and
4. To you, what defines festive food? To us, it’s about coming together for that special time of year and celebrating with those you love and cherish. We’ve tried to base our menu on this notion – there’s something for every generation of your family. Alongside this, Christmas is a time to really indulge and treat yourself. Festive food needs to be special – you wait all year for it!
3. What’s your favourite festive ingredient and why? Toasted nuts are always a warming and wholesome way to bring a dish to life. They really complement our Roast Sedano Rapa Soup – the toasted chestnuts and cranberries give a whole new festive side to the dish while enhancing the flavour and textures. It’s a real winter comfort food!
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Coco Retro 1. What can people expect to see on your festive menu? We have chosen some of the finest winter ingredients to showcase this festive season. From a beautiful French salmon fillet marinated with pink pepper, coriander, and lemon juice to the most sumptuous roulade of pork served with roast apples in brandy and a cranberry chutney. We have also kept some of our customer’s favourite dishes, like our Marseillefamous bouillabaisse and ever the popular chocolate roulade. 2. If you could only eat one meal from your festive menu, what would you choose and why? My favourite combination is a mix of tradition and innovation. I would go for the deliciously smooth French Onion Soup with tangy gruyere cheese melting on top. But then I’d also have to go on to have my favourite, the Pork Roulade. Dessert-wise, I’d choose the pears cooked in sweet red wine, star anise and cinnamon – but then wait a little and see if I could fit in some of our irresistible cheese!
The Warren
Grub & Liquor
3. What’s your favourite festive ingredient and why? There is no one ingredient that says Christmas. To me, it is the gathering of all the seasonal produce and then adding the warmth and cheer of the season with ingredients such as port, cinnamon and heavenly chocolate. 4. To you, what defines festive food? Being Italian and being married to a French wife, we think festive means family and friends gathered around a table and sharing delicious food, and more importantly, time together. It’s why we decided to open on Christmas day!
1. What can people expect to see on your festive menu? As ever, our menu reflects the season, so people will be pleased to see our festive menu, including pigeon, turkey, rabbit and venison. The venison, of course from our estate, is served as a carpaccio – one of the most memorable ways I’ve ever eaten it! Our menu changes daily, but it really is worth popping in to try that dish when it’s on. Other dishes to expect are our wild boar-based meals and our estate-grown lamb and beef.
3. What’s your favourite festive ingredient and why? Mace – not traditionally festive, perhaps, but still my favourite as it just adds a whole new dimension to a meal. It stimulates the appetite and allows you to feel that you could still eat that little something extra!
2. If you could only eat one meal from your festive menu, what would you choose and why? Venison, for certain! The beauty with us is that you know where it’s come from and how it’s lived. Moreover, our Head Chef, Sam, has come up with some delicious ways of serving it. The carpaccio I mentioned is truly something special, as well as the roasted venison joints and steaks on offer. They’re all served beautifully with garnishes that our sous chef, Raul, takes great delight in creating.
4. To you, what defines festive food? We are staying in keep with the traditional pattern of game and seasonal vegetables in the late autumn. We’re also very excited about dishes such as Christmas pudding!
1. What can people expect to see on your festive menu? Expect to taste fantastic locallysourced meat, fish and vegetables from our Tunbridge Wells suppliers – everything from traditional roast turkey to a cream cheese roulade Christmas roll! We have two menus to choose from – a two or threecourse sit-down Christmas dinner or a Christmas buffet. The sit-down dinner is great if you’re looking for a relaxed meal, and the buffet is great for a more social gathering. Both are very reasonably priced and, most importantly, include a glass of Prosecco on arrival! We can also do a complimentary bottle of Prosecco for every six guests if you book before the end of the month. 2. If you could only eat one meal from your festive menu, what would you choose and why? Our Christmas Roll is delicious – it’s a green pesto and mozzarella cream cheese roulade with a chunky slow roasted tomato sauce. It comes with all the trimmings – winter roast potatoes, a honey roasted vegetable medley, pigs in blankets, pancetta and chestnut Brussels sprouts. It’s making my mouth water just thinking about it! The traditional roast turkey and sired beef that we are serving is still pretty hard to resist too, though.
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3. What’s your favourite festive ingredient and why? It has to be cinnamon. It only really comes out during Christmas, and we use it as much as we can throughout the festive season! It’s in our meats, vegetables, sauces and marinades. Also, this year we have developed some fantastic home-made mulled wine tea bags, which are a twist on a traditional favourite. They’re full of flavour with star anise, cloves, and dehydrated clementines as well as, of course, cinnamon. 4. To you, what defines festive food? Festive food is only festive when you’ve really got all your guests, friends and family in the festive mood! By creating that festive vibe in our restaurant and function room, we are able to put our own stamp on the traditional Christmas dinner atmosphere, and we really love creating that quirky and exciting atmosphere for your guests. Now that’s what you call festive!
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Travel: Advertising Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Sail away on a perfect family trip TRAVEL Europe Cruise Apr 19 to May 3
October is National Cruise Month, and with the summer at an end it’s time to cheer yourself up by looking towards your next holiday. A cruise is becoming an increasingly popular option. Warren Chrismas tests it out with his little ones in tow
“WHERE are we going, dad?” enquires our eldest son, Oscar. “France? Italy? Spain? And how are we getting there? Plane? Boat?” I explain that, actually, it’s all of the above. Only it’s not a ferry like previous family holidays. “Tomorrow we’ll be on a huge cruise ship with 4,000 other passengers,” adds my wife. “It has swimming pools, restaurants, a theatre, games…” The eight year old squeals and shouts, then does several laps of the sitting room as he begins to take it all in. It’s hard to imagine even the prospect of a trip to Disneyland getting him more excited. Our youngest children – Alex, 3, and Dylan, 4, – are looking pretty excited, too, but of course have no concept of what a seven-night cruise around the Mediterranean might entail. “This will be an educational holiday, guys,” I tell them, to a muted response. “Oh, and did I mention the free ice cream?” (Cue more squealing.) Less than 24 hours later and the five of us are sitting in one of the hot tubs near the top of an 18-deck, £440million cruise ship named MSC Splendida. It’s an overcast day in April but, frankly, who cares? This is the life! Soon we’ll be leaving Marseille to sail overnight to Genoa, followed by days to be spent at Civitavecchia near Rome, Palermo in Sicily, Valletta in Malta, a day at sea and then Barcelona, before completing the circle. It’s basically an extravagant lap around the islands of Corsica and Sardinia. But first there’s the formality of the safety briefing – mandatory for newly embarked passengers – and then a rather formal dinner. The first night is one of two ‘Gala’ nights during
FAMILY FUN: A cruise appeals to all ages the week where a black tie is recommended. I’d packed a couple of regular shirts, a tie and smartish shoes, along with my typical casual holiday attire – somewhat resentfully, to be honest – and so didn’t feel entirely out of place. But some passengers clearly love the dressing up part of the cruise. Should you be so inclined, you’re given ample opportunity to pose for – and later purchase – cheesy photos at mini-studios which pop-up across the ship during the evenings. The main reception area, with its glorious sweeping staircases made of ‘gold’ and ‘diamonds’ proves to be a popular backdrop. Thankfully, other nights have more relaxedsounding dinner themes, such as ‘white’, ‘informal’ and ‘60s-70s-80s’. The ship has a large buffet restaurant open nearly day, but we mostly opt to have all meals at fairly regular times in the La Reggia restaurant. The food is excellent, and the service is, too. These waiters are considerably more cheery than
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Wednesday October 18 | 2017
‘The five of us are sitting in a hot tub near the top of a £440million cruise ship. It’s an overcast day, but who cares?’ I would be during a nine-month shift at sea! When young Dylan is upset one day, waiter Martin, from El Salvador, creates a bird from a napkin to entertain him. Another time, Wijaya, from Indonesia, inadvertently teaches Alex how to do a thumbs up, which amuses the toddler no end. We grow highly familiar with the restaurant and its surroundings, and also the strains of Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman’s Time to Say Goodbye, which is broadcast across open decks
each time the ship departs – typically around 6pm. It sticks in my head throughout the holiday. But, of course, the scenery is ever-changing. Each stop-off offers a new blank page for adventure, with one all-important caveat: Get back on the ship before the late afternoon deadline. At Genoa, we take a half-day organised tour to an excellent aquarium – apparently the second largest in Europe. We reach it on a small pleasure boat, which is a little odd, as it’s easily within walking distance. Still, it’s a fun little trip, and for us day-one cruise virgins there’s something reassuring about getting off – and back on – our ship by following a lady holding a numbered paddle. Of all the stop-offs, Rome has the most obvious potential, but it’s 50 miles [80km] away from the port at Civitavecchia. We’re not fans of long coach rides, so we travel by double-decker train, hopping off at San Pietro station to cut the journey time to less than an hour. We spend some time at St Peter’s Square and DIVE IN: Valletta, Malta
enjoy an authentic Italian lunch (literally: Pizza, pasta and ice cream) at an undistinguished café before taking in the Colosseum. I attempt to give a rudimentary history lesson to the boys – “It was the Wembley Stadium of its day…” – but my audience is largely unmoved. By this point, we’re furiously clock-watching, so drop plans to visit the Trevi Fountain and head to the very busy and confusing Roma Termini station. After missing a train by two minutes and experiencing a seven-minute delay on the next, we make it back on the ship with just 20 minutes to spare. That’s close enough! Malta is a joy. The walled city of Valletta is picturesque, laid-back and very easy to get to. Taxis offer rides by the hills, but we’d been tipped off about a lift to the right of the port which takes passengers up for one euro each (free for kids). We pass time lapping up the sun, looking in shops and eating ice cream, and very much enjoy a close-up view of the ceremonial midday gun salute and the view across the gorgeous bay. After a lazy start, we don’t get around to disembarking at Sicily, which I guess you can take as an endorsement of the ship’s facilities and entertainment. The day at sea flashes by, too. The kids join in a cookery class, try the junior ten-pin bowling lane and watch older kids on the Ferrari F1 simulator. My wife tries salsa dance lessons (one of many events outlined in a ‘Daily Program’ delivered to rooms each day), while I make use of the half-decent Wi-Fi to catch up on emails and football scores. And we spend more time in the hot tub and soaking up some sun, with Oscar running to the bars to order fruit smoothies and ‘dirty banana’ shakes. There are splash areas and adult-depth pools – indoor and out – but, disappointingly, nothing in between for children. We made some use of the creche facilities, but can’t report on what happened. Apparently, what
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GAME ON: Camp Nou Stadium, Barcelona
goes on in kids’ club stays in kids’ club. Still, all three were happy to go back a second time. Oscar’s favourite trip was the organised coach tour of Barcelona and, in particular, the behindthe-scenes look at Camp Nou. Apparently, to an eight-year-old boy, a modern football stadium is significantly more interesting than a crumbly 2,000-year-old amphitheatre. Who knew? I guess it’s unrealistic to expect young kids to appreciate history and culture, especially with such fleeting visits to ports, but it will no doubt add a bit of context to future school lessons. And besides, they had a whole lot of fun at sea. All too soon, it really was ‘time to say goodbye’, with our heads full of new memories – and that Sarah Brightman song. HOW TO GET THERE Warren Chrismas was a guest of MSC Cruises, who offers an eight-day trip on the MSC Splendida, embarking from Marseille, Genoa or Civitavecchia and also calling at Palermo, Cagliari, Palma de Mallorca and Valencia, from £829pp (two sharing). www.msccruises.co.uk
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Travel
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
GRAPES GALORE In Burgundy
Cruise through the beauties of France – one of the world’s favourite destinations This romantic and beguiling country is more than the Eiffel Tower, fantastic wine, and mouthwatering cuisine. Here, we float through some of the most magical places to be found in the land beyond the English Channel…
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HE rivers of France offer their visitors a wealth of delightful experiences. Have you longed to see the romantic bridges of Paris and the historic beaches of Normandy? Then relax and let go while France seduces you with her passionate personality and trendy cities, just minutes from extensive forests and stunning beaches. Perhaps you dream of Provençal sunshine and famous Côtes du Rhône wines, or wish to venture into the ancient Aquitaine region, with its charming towns, world-class wines and lively regional capital, Bordeaux. It all awaits you in one of the world’s most beloved tourist spots. The French people practice l’art de vivre (the art of living), which is widely apparent while on a stroll through the pretty port of Honfleur, loved by generations of artists, or when conversing with local winemakers in Burgundy while they share their dedication and life’s work. Some of France’s regions and towns will ring a bell – Paris, Versailles, Normandy and Bordeaux. But those you may be less familiar with leave just as much of a lasting impression with their quaint charm and allure: Viviers, Giverny and Avignon. From Paris’s historic Montmartre to the vistas of the Alabaster Coast, and countless precious gems in between, a mix of art and nature unfolds as you sail along the tranquil river Seine. In Versailles, visit the Chateau de Versailles, Louis XIV’s grand palace and truly a sight to behold. Discover the countryside that inspired so many
Monet’s Japanese bridge renowned artists, exploring the towns and landscapes made famous by the impressionists, including Le Havre, which is often referred to as the birthplace of impressionism. Stroll through the village of Auvers-sur-Oise, where Van Gogh lived his final months and created some of his most famous works. While in Rouen, visit the stunning Gothic cathedral immortalised by Monet on his canvases and at his beloved home in Giverny, where you’ll see the familiar Japanese bridge and water garden that inspired his infamous Water Lilies series. Travel to Honfleur, a charming and colourful French harbour city on the Seine estuary where
INSPIRING The Place du Forum in Arles, where Van Gogh painted the Cafe Terrace at Night
‘Perhaps follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin on an unforgettable journey through Burgundy and Provence’
characteristic houses line the quays alongside intimate galleries and restaurants. While in Normandy, a visit to the museums is a must. Among the most inspiring are Rouen’s Museum of Fine Art and Paris’s Orsay Museum, along with Montmartre, once home to Pissarro, Degas, Matisse, Renoir and Picasso, to name just a few, during the 1800s. The Normandy Beaches mean many different things to different people, which you can experience on an excursion to several historic sites, including the Utah and Omaha beaches. Alternatively, golf enthusiasts should take the opportunity to hit the links on an outing to Golf
Travel
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
SAFE HARBOUR Honfleur’s famous skyline
d’Étretat, a simply stunning course set atop the cliffs of the Alabaster Coast.
Cuisine Perhaps follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin on an unforgettable journey through Burgundy and Provence, where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills. Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying the region’s incomparable wine and cuisine and discovering its many treasures – from the medieval wonders of UNESCO-designated Avignon to Lyon’s lively Les Halles food market. Van Gogh possessed the rare ability to make an entire town famous on his own, as he did with Arles. Stroll the very streets which served as inspiration for many of his paintings. Lyon, considered France’s culinary capital, is home to many restaurants
specialising in modern French cuisine. Indulge in French delicacies while pedalling through the city designed with bike riders in mind. Actually, for the adventurous, there is much to explore by bicycle and boat in the region, notably a kayak ride under the UNESCO-designated Pont du Gard on the scenic Gardon River in Avignon. And while in Avignon, be sure to visit the majestic Palace of the Popes. The south of France really is as alluring as you’d expect. From its noble châteaux to its breathtaking estuary, Bordeaux is a wine connoisseurs’ paradise and every traveller’s dream. Savour the unique heritage of southwest France, from delightful Pauillac, the gateway to the Médoc wine route, to elegant Bordeaux – the ‘Pearl of the Aquitaine’. To top it off, a scenic drive along the flower-lined Route de la Corniche Fleurie captures the je ne sais quoi
that makes southwest France so compelling. Bordeaux is a place where dreams come true, especially dreams that include sampling sweet local wine while overlooking a sprawling vineyard in Sauternes. The locals call it the douceur de vivre (sweet life), which will make perfect sense after your first sip. Take a tour of the historic vineyards of Saint and, of course, test your pallet with some wine tasting. Be sure to explore Saint-Émilion’s
SPLASHING ABOUT ON THE RIVER Paddle boats at Pont du Gard – a Roman aqueduct in Provence
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astonishing 12th-century Monolithic Church while you’re there. You’ll want something to pair with all the local wines and the local farmers’ markets and luxury food halls will help with that. Just as memorable as the food and drink are the age-old traditions and quaint charm you’ll discover in all the cities, towns and villages throughout the region. Life is beautiful. Take full advantage of it on a French river cruise.
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Motoring
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
TEST DRIVE:
Aston Martin DB11 V8 WHAT IS IT?
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
To dismiss the DB11 V8 as an entry-level version of Aston Martin’s latest grand tourer wouldn’t be entirely fair. Sure, with a retail price of £144,900 it’s £13,000 cheaper than its V12powered stablemate – but according to Aston, this is an entirely different beast. While the full-fat DB11 V12 was designed for crossing continents in supreme comfort at a significant rate of knots, Aston Martin claims the V8 model is the one to go for if you’re a keen driver! Yes, it’s about 100bhp down on the V12, but the lack of those four extra cylinders right over the front of the car means the V8 is 115kg lighter, and it also means this particular Aston Martin has a weight distribution of 49:51 as opposed to its big brother’s 51:49.
Although the DB11’s V8 engine may have been sourced from Mercedes’ slightly enthusiastic in-house tuners, AMG, it hasn’t just been dropped into the British grand tourer as is. Aston Martin has fitted its own air intake, exhaust and wet sump lubrication systems, and has worked to ‘Astonise’ the German engine. The result of this tinkering is a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 that develops 503bhp and 675Nm of torque. This allows the DB11 to complete the benchmark sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds, while its top speed sits at 187mph. For perspective, the V12 DB11 will complete the same sprint in 3.7 seconds, so the V8 won’t exactly be left for dead by its more expensive stablemate. While this probably won’t be a huge concern for Aston Martin owners, the DB11 V8 trumps the V12 model as far as fuel economy and CO2 emissions are concerned. Where the V12 manages 24.8mpg on the combined cycle, the V8 will do 28.5mpg. CO2 emissions for the V8 stand at 230g/km, while the V12 rises to 265g/km.
WHAT’S NEW? The clue is in the name. The most important change with the DB11 V8 is, well, the V8. Aston Martin got its hands on the AMGsourced unit thanks to its working relationship with the Daimler Group. But more on this phenomenal engine later. Aside from that, the changes you get with the DB11 V8 are rather subtle. Aesthetically, its darker headlamp bezels, different vents in the bonnet and darker tail lights are the main alterations the more eagle-eyed will pick out. These changes have been introduced to give the DB11 V8 a slightly more sporting and athletic image than the V12 model.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? In a word, the DB11 V8 is sublime. Aston Martin has built a thoroughly accomplished GT car that’s not only devastatingly quick in a straight line, but seriously impressive through the twisty stuff as well. The steering is precise and has a healthy weight to it, allowing you to point the car nose into a bend safe in the knowledge that it won’t suddenly wash out.
‘It’s not only devastatingly quick in a straight line, but seriously impressive through the twisty stuff as well’
Aston has also worked a trick with the DB11’s damping. The set-up is soft enough to allow it to ride comfortably over imperfections in the surface of the road, but firm enough to minimise body roll through fast corners. Out on the motorway, the DB11 really comes into its element. It simply eats the miles up, and is an incredibly comfortable car to cover great distances in. The V8 engine has power on tap, and even in seventh gear it pulls astonishingly well.
HOW DOES IT LOOK? If there’s one thing an Aston Martin has to be, it’s beautiful, and the DB11 is certainly a stunning thing to look at. Where its sister car, the Vanquish, is far more aggressive in its appearance, the DB11 is a much more elegant and classy GT.
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? Anyone who’s spent time in a Mercedes will no doubt be met with a sense of déjà vu, due to the infotainment system being lifted straight from the German manufacturer’s model line-up (another fruit of Aston and Daimler’s relationship). Past that, though, the DB11 is all Aston. There’s leather everywhere, sourced from cows raised in fields that aren’t fenced in with barbed wire. According to Aston Martin, this helps ensure the leather is of the highest quality.
FACTS AT A GLANCE: MODEL Aston Martin DB11 V8 ENGINE 4.0-litre twinturbocharged V8 POWER 503bhp TORQUE 675Nm MAX SPEED 187mph 0-60MPH 3.8 seconds MPG 28.5 (combined) EMISSIONS 230g/km PRICE AS TESTED £144,900
The DB11 is now available with an AMG-sourced V8. Simon Davis heads to Spain to put the eye-catching GT through its paces PICTURE PERFECT ‘If there’s one thing an Aston Martin has to be, it’s beautiful’
One thing’s for sure: The cabin is a great place to spend time.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? The DB11 V8 bears a recommended retail price of £144,900, so it’s certainly not cheap. That said, it is intended to be an exclusive, luxurious GT car, so an affordable price tag was never going to be on the table. As far as equipment goes, there’s a full leather interior, an infotainment system with 12-inch LCD display, satellite navigation and 360-degree parking camera, to name but a few features. And if you think you’ll tire of listening to the car’s V8 soundtrack, you can also order a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system.
VERDICT Although the DB11 V8 may be down four cylinders compared with the range-topping V12, by no means should you think that it’s in any form a lesser car. Like the DB11 V12, it’s a marvellous crosscontinental grand tourer, but thanks to its new lightweight engine, this model is now more agile than ever. For those who value outright dynamic ability over challenging roads, this might just be the car to go for.
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
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Advertising Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
When it comes to DIY, it’s a family affair When Anglefix first started over 25 years ago, they never expected to turn it into quite the successful local business it is today, with three stores in Tonbridge, Goudhurst and Forest Row. The Times met Mark Taylor in Tonbridge to find out more about the company that puts their customers above everything else Tell us a little of the history of Anglefix… It all started 26 years ago; it was just me working from home originally. From there, I got a small unit and then gradually, over time, expanded to a bigger space. As the company grew in Tunbridge Wells we had the opportunity to acquire a new location in Forest Row. The market we went after, as a small business, is quite niche in that we wanted to
TAKING STOCK Of high-quality products
supply to both builders and their clients. Today, we still have three locations, including our head office and warehouse in Goudhurst as well as our new hardware store in Tonbridge, so people can come to us and order almost anything DIY-related and we will source it for them. That’s the key to what we do here – no fixed brochures and stock lists; we work around the needs of each individual customer. So do you follow the lead of the customer when it comes to products you stock? That’s exactly it. We aren’t restricted to a brochure in the way that some of your big chain companies are. The client comes in with their request and we work around them to meet their need. This works as we have our large warehouse in Goudhurst. For example, someone can call us in the morning and we can usually get the product in that day for them. We adjust with our customers too much to have a fixed list of products. Only earlier this morning I had a lady collect a special brand of tape she’d seen advertised on TV. She couldn’t find it anywhere in Tonbridge, so we sourced it for her.
FATHER AND SON: Mark Taylor and Richard Taylor
Advertising Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
show you how it works and offer advice. We can bring it to your house, we can show it to your partner, and we can really help you make the right decision.
‘We aim to provide the kind of product you buy once, as opposed to a lowquality item you end up replacing three times’ So, how does Tonbridge work as a location for you? We only arrived here in June, and business has been great. People keep telling us that this is exactly what Tonbridge needed. You’ve not got your Homebase or B&Q here any more, so we are the one-stop shop for DIY needs in the area. Even with those big chains here, we offer an entirely different service – we aim to provide the kind of product you buy once, as opposed to a low-quality item with an appealing price that you end up having to replace three times. The problem with the internet is you can easily find a product online and think it is cheap, go for it, and then it breaks after one or two uses. If you come in here, you can try it out, we can
Do you find that you do get many returning customers due to the calibre of your service? Definitely – which makes it even more important to provide quality. Most of the customers here have become regulars and friends, and I wouldn’t be selling knock-off rubbish to friends – or anyone! We are a family business, and those ethics are the crux of what we do. Being a family business really instils an element of trust. My son Richard runs our Tonbridge store, my other son Gary runs our Forest Row store and my wife and I look after head office and visit customers. We have five additional staff and we all work like an extended family. Was it always the plan to end up in retail? I’ve worked in sales for 20 years, and before that I was working in wholesale lighting. I actually used to work for a guy who is now a regular customer, when I left that job I realised there was a gap in the market for what we do, and here I am now. I’ve loved every second of it ever since I started – the company has evolved so naturally. We even use the same suppliers as we originally did 20 years ago. And how do you source your suppliers? With great care! We have such a wide range of suppliers from various
FEATURES
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locations – it’s really important to us that we bring in the best quality we can, regardless of distance. We don’t tend to chase suppliers. We have great relationships with all of them, and they seem to like the way we operate as well as appreciating the individual offers we can give them that they can’t get from large chain companies. Have you noticed any recent trends in particular items you have in stock? Gardening equipment is flying off the shelves here. There are a lot of customers looking for quality tools to manage allotments and their gardens. Our stock seems really popular and I think it comes down to the high-quality brands. Generally speaking, if something’s good quality, the manufacturer will put his name on it. And do you find you have trends in particular customers? It’s varies massively, but we do find that one person comes in and asks for something, and then it flies off the shelf repeatedly for a couple of weeks, and then we don’t hear a single request for it for months! Mini waves like this are common and, as much as it makes getting the right stock a challenge, it’s the fun part as well. We wouldn’t have it any other way – at least we know we are getting in what people really want and not just scanning a brochure for the next best thing. And what does the future hold for you here in Tonbridge? We are really enjoying being here and are happy to be providing a service that Tonbridge needs. Our
Anglefix Head Office Unit 3, Spelmonden Estate, Spelmonden Road, Goudhurst, Kent TN17 1HE T: 01892 684422 E: sales@anglefix.co.uk The Builders Store Lewes Road, Forest Row East Sussex RH18 5AF T: 01342 824424 E: forestrow@anglefix.co.uk The Hardware Store Quarry Hill Parade Tonbridge, Kent TN9 2HR T: 01892 684422 E: tonbridge@anglefix.co.uk location is ideal and, although nothing happens overnight, things are going really well for us and we are constantly learning. For example, we’ve recently removed our big displays from the window as it was making the store look too dark. We’re going to think about a way to work on the shop window that really emphasises our range of products and makes the most of the space we’ve got here and promotes us to passers-by. We are learning and expanding all the time.
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Advertising Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
The instant garden Garden design is fast becoming as important to the homeowner as the interior – as an extension of the home. Enter Sean McGeachy of McGeachy Garden Design. Hannah Patterson talks to him at one of his prestigious clients’ homes to see one of his visions
Well, this garden is certainly breathtaking. How did you get into landscaping? I had worked a little in landscaping, at Bluewater actually, but I then went off to university to study something completely dif ferent – agriculture. Once the degree was done with, I came out of it wondering what to do next. I went back into what I enjoyed – I should have stuck with it all along! I love the outdoors, plants, people, watching things grow and evolve. This made landscaping a perfect fit for me.
How long has your company been running? Just a couple of years. I did a lot of gardening maintenance and landscape work – I suddenly realised I was redesigning a lot of places. All the places I worked at before have been really supportive which is great. I just BEFORE took the dive. A lot of people come The work starts… and see this garden – it’s a good shop window! So this is one of your favourite projects? This property, and the space I had to work with, was fantastic. I can’t even begin to list how many changes we’ve made. It was mostly laid-to-lawn, with a few trees on the drive. Initially, when you drove through the gate, the house was completely shielded from view. That was an issue for both the overall aesthetic and security. The clients wanted to be able to see it and also see who was approaching it.
…AFTER The transformation is complete
Was being wild and creative part of the brief? This area on the left side of the house is a little more typical and traditional in its style, very
‘It all began as mud, and we had so much fun getting all the plants in’ structured, but we went a bit lower maintenance on the right side as it’s such a big area, so it has a lot of wild and lively plants. It was very labour intensive as it involved a lot of planting. How does a garden like this happen? It starts with building a relationship with the clients and getting a sense for what they want. Listening is key. When it came to this garden, the process was organic. We made a good team – the couple and I – so we bounced ideas of each other. The initial brief was more a conversation where we kicked around ideas. I have a creative mind, and they tell me what they like and don’t. If they trust you, the brief appears naturally. I do know these particular clients very well, but even with clients I don’t know, I try to make an effort to get to know them well enough first so that I can suggest ideas that I think will really work for them and their vision. Talk me through this garden specifically… Everything had to be levelled off to start with before all of this began – so it was a blank canvas. I draw everything out on a plan and we work backwards from there, really. I’m over-simplifying things a little, but that is the basis of the formula. Once everything was levelled, we cut the shape out from the plan. The quality turf came from the Wildflower Turf Company, who are top of their game and supplied turf for the 2012 Olympic Park. The contacts I have are the very highest quality; it comes from years of emails and networking and making a name for myself in the industry.
Advertising Feature
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
FEATURES
garden and then they’re not sure what the maintenance schedule is. I always work to create a garden that matches the amount of maintenance they’re willing to work with in the future. Do you recommend the products to the client? I lead the way because I know where to go. I can provide different ideas for people and then they can choose what they like. My clients expect and trust me to source the highest standard of product. But I always use anything they want. This garden, for example, has an outdoor reading room featuring a spectacular old church window that the homeowner picked up at an auction in France. It’s a terrific feeling to source one-off finds and work them into the garden. The garden looks spectacular as we move into autumn… It’s the structure that makes it keep its look throughout the year BEFORE impact pieces. The perennials – I adapted it to do so. I changed Bare and brown… are smaller and can grow in later. the border from pine trees to make But, ultimately, there’s an overall it all a little bigger and more open. effect of a garden instantly once the The amount of mud and water was work is done. Having said that, gardens are unbelievable. We had to pump it out of the always in progress. garden originally and correct the drainage. There was even a bit of a sink hole area from all the Would you call this garden high maintenance? storms. But again, this was a ‘nothing’ area. It A garden is never done. Especially with this type was just rough grass beneath the trees, but now of garden – it’s always evolving. It was originally it’s the perfect place to walk. This is one of my too high maintenance, but we changed things a favourite things about this garden – you can walk little to make it more manageable. through different parts and it changes everywhere. Gardens in general are a growing thing. They They used to never use the area towards the back, have two gardeners here three times a week, and and it was so much land that was redundant; it’s that’s a scale back from how many it used to take. about making you want to walk around and use the garden. There’s no point having all this Are you often called back for maintenance? wonderful space and not making it the very best When it’s necessary. I keep in contact with every it can be. Looking at what we’ve accomplished client as much as I can. Sometimes they get the here reminds me how much I truly love my job.
…AFTER Lush and green It all began as mud, and we had so much fun getting all the plants in to do this transformation. I tend to buy smaller perennials direct from Europe and plant densely – it fills gaps quicker. You’ll notice the impressive slate walls, made by a contact from Scotland. He’s really passionate about his sculptures, walls and the other work he creates. It’s all truly unique. These are some of the designs that are at Highgrove Royal Gardens. What is the concept of the ‘instant garden’? Lots of people nowadays don’t want to wait for a garden. If you’ve got the ability to pay for it, you just want it to be ready as soon as it can be. An instant garden is one that a client can enjoy as soon as it’s finished, and not a garden that you need to wait to grow through. It needs to work for all seasons. We spend the money on the hedging, the topiary, and the trees. Those are instant
McGeachy Garden Design T: 01580 852315 M: 07507877685 W: www.mcgeachygardendesign.co.uk E: info@mcgeachygardendesign.co.uk
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Puzzles
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
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Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.
A N A E M I A
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
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In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply. Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely. Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue
M A S A I
C R E S R E U I O L F ON S O F K U S S O L I N V E Z O R E S H L R J A Y T R A G M U I U P E R L A I E E N C I S O R
4 1 5 8 3 7 9 2 6
8 7 3 9 6 2 4 1 5
U M E O S S I A X H
D I R M B A A Q C R I
E S W MO O M P A M U A N S S T E E R
Jigsaw Sudoku:
Sudoku:
6 2 9 5 1 4 3 7 8
S A C R I L E G E
3 9 1 2 4 6 5 8 7
7 8 2 1 5 3 6 4 9
5 4 6 7 9 8 1 3 2
9 5 8 4 2 1 7 6 3
2 6 4 3 7 5 8 9 1
1 3 7 6 8 9 2 5 4
7 3 4 1 8 5 6 2 9
8 9 5 2 4 1 3 7 6
5 4 2 6 7 9 1 3 8
1 7 6 8 9 3 2 5 4
3 2 9 4 5 6 8 1 7
6 5 1 7 2 8 9 4 3
4 8 7 9 3 2 5 6 1
2 1 8 3 6 4 7 9 5
9 6 3 5 1 7 4 8 2
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
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DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★★
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
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SOLUTIONS FROM ISSUE DATED OCTOBER 4
SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU
DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★II
CODEWORD
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Life & Style
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
CHILDRENSALON HOST SECOND JOB FAIR Luxury children’s wear retailer Childrensalon will be hosting their second in-house jobs fair on the 4th November. Winners of the Kent Excellence in Business Awards Employer of the Year 2017, they will be hosting the event from 10.30am-3.30pm in their Tunbridge Wells headquarters. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights and meet the heads of different teams, discuss current vacancies as well as apply speculatively for other roles.
LGBT HALLOWEEN PARTY After sponsoring the fantastically successful Tunbridge Wells pride summer event, Grub & Liquor are hosting an LBGT Halloween party this Friday (20th). The event will be hosted by Miss Sugar Cube from Golden Sugar Fantasy and will include a comical drag act at 9pm followed by a DJ until 1am. The usual bottomless Prosecco offer will be still be available at £20 for the whole night (applies also to house wine.) There will also be a variety of cocktails and other drink offers. Funds raised will go towards Pride 2018. All are welcome to enjoy this Halloween special!
“We find in-house jobs fairs are so effective for both job-seekers to see first-hand our wonderful working environment and for us to really get to meet people in person. Our first was so successful that we are committed to doing these on a regular basis” said Denise Hamtilon, People Team Director. Current vacancies include, but are not limited to, Digital & Design Team, Customer Service, Logistics, Merchandising and Product Copywriting. Childrensalon is proud to be a Living Wage employer and was awarded Best Companies Outstanding accreditation for employee engagement.
www.grubandliquor.co.uk
www.childrensalon.com
PIZZA GOGO A dream became a reality in 1987, with the birth of Pizza GoGo. Since then, the company has expanded rapidly with over 100 branches. They have been one of the UK’s leading take-away and delivery companies and decided to introduced the concept of FREE delivery to the business! Located at 141 Camden Road, their free delivery makes it an easy and a highly attractive option for customers. Fantastic offers are available every day, seven days a week and Pizza GoGo are serving high quality pizzas with fresh dough, made on site, from 11.30am till late.
SUSAN FYNES SHARING FAMILY WEALTH WHIreland Wealth Management are hosting a ‘Sharing Family Wealth’ seminar at the Spa Hotel on Thursday November 9th for those who are interested in learning more about effectively planning for the succession of your wealth to your family. Over the coming years, more and more wealth will be passed down through the generations, yet recent reports suggest that as many as 50% of families don’t discuss how and when this may happen for them. There are many complications around this topic which is perhaps the reason why many shy away from effective planning. Tax is one of the biggest concerns for passing on family wealth and many are not aware of the main taxes, and the reliefs available. There are many solutions available to assist with this and WHIreland work with a wide range of professional advisors as well as private individuals to deliver wealth planning and investment management solutions to a diverse range of clients.
To attend the seminar, visit www.whirelandplc.com/ sharingfamilywealth
Susan Fynes, a systems based artist who creates visual representations of the connection between thought and action, has launched new website www.susanfynes.com in which she is selling limited edition giclée print of her work. Having exhibited in New York, London and across the UK, including a solo show, her work has been collected by film producers, corporate art buyers and individuals. Based in Tunbridge Wells, Susan graduated with a BA in Fine Art from the University of Greenwich and a Masters from the University of Brighton. Having studied closely the psychology of what motivated humans to act, she creates arresting, soothing, vibrant and spiritual pieces that are based on a code she translates to canvas – using colour as the new language and hand drawing each piece of the code to create a highly geometric statement of colour, language and movement. Her paintings make a real statement in a home or the foyer of a hotel or office. Originals are also available, and she takes commissions.
Contact hello@susanfynes.com or 07775 737186
01892 677715 www.pizzagogo.co.uk
Recruitment
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
NEWS
WITH THE
FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY
NOT REALLY FITTING IN? SOMETIMES YOUR CURRENT POSITION JUST DOESN’T FEEL RIGHT... Turn to our recruitment page for new job ideas
Fill your vacancy now in print or online For more information contact Jordanne Reville on 01892 576 049 jreville@markerstudy.com
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
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Arts & Culture
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Raising a toast to the power of speech Public speaking puts many on edge, so what if you have to give a work or wedding talk? Well, thankfully, help is at hand courtesy of the Tunbridge Wells Speakers Club. Here one of its members, Chris Murphy, who recently won the Toastmasters Area 37 Humorous Speech contest, reveals how speaking up can give you the confidence to converse
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F YOU had to rate the following as to which speaking and to teach the key skills needed to you are most afraid of, which would top your deliver a fantastic speech. You wouldn’t expect to list? Spiders? Flying? Or public speaking? fly a plane without training, so why is a speech If you put public speaking at the top, you are any different? in agreement with most other people. For some reason it has the power to get pulses Expertise racing, cheeks blushing and palms Tunbridge Wells has its own speakers sweating more than most other things. club, which is always keen to welcome So, what if you HAVE to give a new guests. It has been running since presentation, for example for a new 2005 and the two founding members are job, or a wedding speech? Wouldn’t it still regulars, so their expertise is always be great if you could deliver a great on hand. There are plenty of other longspeech confidently and appear relaxed? standing members, and the key aim is to learn Well, now the big question is what can how to confidently deliver an effective speech. you do to conquer that fear? We achieve that by having three Most people aren’t aware members each deliver a short that there is a network of speech they have written, with speakers’ clubs around guidance from the Toastmasters’ the country under the training manual. These are umbrella of an then evaluated by another international member, giving them clear organisation called guidance on what they did Toastmasters. well and the points to It was set up nearly improve on. If you do 100 years ago in that, you can progressively America and now has improve your ability to clubs in 142 countries speak in public in a safe, across the globe. supportive environment. Its aim has always We also have a session called Table been to help people both FIGHTING TALK Topics, which sees members and guests conquer their fear of public Chris Murphy
stand up and deliver an impromptu 1-2-minute speech – if they want to, of course! We vote on who is the best and they get the glory of holding the title Table Topics trophy winner for that week. Again, these are all evaluated so those who speak learn how to improve and can see what others do and learn from that as well. Another key aim of the club is to enjoy ourselves, so our meeting evenings are lighthearted, social and interactive. Around 15 to 20 people attend and we prioritise guests and new members. We also have speaking contests twice a year, and one of these gives you the opportunity to progress through to the World Championship of
Public Speaking. Simon Bucknall from the UK recently took second place in the 2017 finals, held in Vancouver, Canada. You can see his speech on our website to see what you could achieve. Member Simon Mott does a motivational speech called ‘What makes a Superstar’ and is delivering this to various groups around the country, including 30 different Women’s Institutes, next year. The Tunbridge Wells Speakers meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Tunbridge Wells Bridge Club, 40 London Road, TW1 1DL, from 7.15pm to 9.30pm. To learn more, please contact Chris Murphy via www.tunbridge-wells-speakers.org SPEAKERS’ CORNER A gathering at the club
Arts & Culture
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
Local heroes With no town centre cinema, Rusthall community members decided to set up their own. Here, co-founder Eugene Gardener puts it in the frame READY TO ROLL At Rusthall’s cinema
THE Rusthall Community Cinema was formed in May 2016 by myself and our local vicar, Ronnie Williams. Its aim was to show films to residents of Rusthall and the surrounding area that are accessible to all – whether you’re a serious film enthusiast, on a low income, or simply want some social stimulation. The cinema’s film choices are publicly voted on every six months from the suggestions we receive from the community. They are screened every two weeks on a Saturday evening. So far we have shown La La Land, The Theory of Everything, 45 Years and Inside Out. The atmosphere is very different from that of commercial cinemas, and after visiting us most people tend to come back to future screenings.
Our venue, Sunnyside Hall, is always ‘dressed’ in keeping with each film in order to make the experience more immersive. There’s also a licensed bar, which often includes themed cocktails as well as other refreshments and home-made cakes. Short films are screened at the start of the evening, and are selected to be both entertaining and related to the main feature’s theme. Through these shorts the cinema can expand the audience’s cinematic experience. We often show documentaries, animations and foreign language films, and at the end of the evening a discussion group gathers to share their thoughts about the films.
Volunteers The cinema has great community spirit and is run entirely by volunteers, with locals encouraged to get involved in various ways. Free transport is available for those nearby who are unable to visit it under their own steam, and there’s also an induction loop provided for anyone with hearing difficulties. Wheelchair users can be easily accommodated and, where appropriate, local charities are invited to present and collect donations. Most recently, Nourish Foodbank in Tunbridge Wells collected 307kg in food contributions and £147 in cash at a screening of Ken Loach’s award-winning film I, Daniel Blake. Grants from Kent County Councillor James McInroy and The OneFamily Foundation have enabled new, high-quality equipment to be acquired, and our screening of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest this coming Saturday [October 21] will be the first time the new projector is used. Ahead of the following film, the Danish classic Babette’s Feast on November 11, the cinema is teaming up with the Daily Bread café on Rusthall High Street to host a community feast of its own… Rusthall Cinema Club charges £5 per person per visit or £40 for annual membership. For more information, see www.rusthallcinema.club
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Musical youth The Forum is hosting a series of gigs entitled Kick Out The Jams. Here its curator, music industry expert Roger Kent, tells Eileen Leahy all about it… THE FORUM in Tunbridge Wells is no stranger to hosting fledgling artists and putting them on the musical map, but now it’s getting involved in a series of special gigs put together by seasoned music industry promoter Roger Kent to celebrate the revival of indie guitar bands. Tomorrow night [October 19] brings the first of the monthly events, and welcomes Trampolene, who’ve just been announced as a support act for Liam Gallagher’s first UK solo tour. Punk poet Lucie Barât and Sisteray will also perform.
Grenfell “The idea behind Kick Out The Jams is to bring the cream of a new crop of UK indie guitar bands to Tunbridge Wells Forum every month, at
Trampolene
MUSIC MAESTRO: Roger Kent
affordable prices,” explains Roger. The concerts are a co-promotion with Forum co-owner Jason Dormon and his team of volunteers, and the first show will be a fundraiser for survivors of London’s Grenfell Tower fire. “I got the idea of supporting this charity from one of the artists playing the first show, Lucie Barât, who has been raising money for the cause for some time already,” says Roger. He also says that the first Kick Out The Jams also has the blessing of Libertines and Babyshambles frontman Pete Doherty. “He has endorsed the line-up, as both friends and respected cohorts of his are taking part. He’s also donated a generous sum to the Grenfell Tower fund as well as donating a piece of his original artwork for auction for the cause.” If you can’t attend but would still like to contribute, visit www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/TWFGigForGrenfell The other gigs are on November 23 with Rews, False Heads and Blackwaters, and December 7 with The Wholls, Bang Bang Romeo and Wake Up Leo. For more details, see www.twforum.co.uk
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FEATURES
What’s On
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
SEVEN DAYS OF SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AT A GLANCE
WHATS ON
Eileen Leahy
WITH THE
INTO THE SPOOKY WILDS At Penshurst Place
PHOTO: Penshurst Place & Gardens
Local events
>> WEDNESDAY Former Strictly star Natalie Lowe sashays her way on to the stage at the Assembly Hall this evening from 7.30pm. Rip It Up sees the dancing star partnering with two former Strictly contestants, Jay McGuiness and Louis Smith, for a performance that spans the dance decades. Tickets start from £19.50. Book at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk The Oast Theatre in Tonbridge will be putting on a performance of Neil Simon’s play Last of the Red Hot Lovers every night until Saturday. Directed by Shirley Browning, this is a lighthearted comedy about Barney, a middle-aged, over-worked, under-sexed man who decides to join the sexual revolution – before it’s too late. Tickets cost £10 or £7.50 for members. For more details, see www.oasttheatre.com >> THURSDAY This morning from 8am until 10am there will be a breakfast talk by military expert Rob Caskie at the Hotel Du Vin entitled Rorke’s Drift: An Epic Defence of Impossible Odds. The talk, which is
supported by solicitors Keogh Caisley and Pettitts Travel, will examine the terrifying plight of the 139 British Soldiers who fought against 4,000 Zulu warriors in an epic battle during the 19th century. Tickets cost £30pp and include a full English breakfast, with proceeds going to Hospices of Hope. To book or find out more call 01959 525 110. >> FRIDAY If you like a bit of song and dance, then why not join the local theatre group LAMPS at Tonbridge’s EM Forster Theatre for their show Musicality – a ‘toe-tapping, jazz-hand-waving trip down memory lane’? They will be performing songs from their back catalogue of productions tonight at 7.30pm and in two shows tomorrow to celebrate their 90th anniversary. Tickets cost £12.50 via the website below or on 01732 304241. At the same venue, but on a different stage, there’s also a Comedy Night.. Compered by Paul T Eyres, it will feature Christian Reilly with support from Matt Green. The fun starts at 7.30pm and tickets cost £12 from www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk >> SATURDAY Hever Castle kicks off its spook-tacular Halloween fun this weekend with a number of events that run until the end of the month.
If you would like to see your events featured in our weekly What’s On pages, please email eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
Visitors can meet scary characters like Viscous Vampire in the Creepy Crypt and hear terrifying tales of goblins, trolls, witches and more along the eerie Halloween trail. Little ones will also have the chance to decorate cupcakes, and a prize will be awarded daily for the best creepy costume. For more details see www.hevercastle.co.uk The castle will also be hosting delicious afternoon teas all weekend in aid of Breast Cancer Awareness month. They will cost an additional £19.50 per person and 50 per cent of the ticket price will go directly to the Pink Ribbon Foundation. Please book in advance. Over in Tonbridge, St Philip’s Church is hosting an 80s night from 7.30pm. Fancy dress is optional, but there will be plenty of fun things to enjoy, including music, party food and a short reflection by the parish’s vicar, Mark Brown. Tickets cost £1 and can be ordered by emailing: saintphilips@ tonbridgeparish church.org.uk or calling 01732 352416.
>> SUNDAY The EM Forster Theatre welcomes the Slot Machine Theatre this afternoon with their performance of Your Toys. The family show, which has been described by industry bible The Stage as ‘magical’, is aimed at 5-9 year olds, but parents and grandparents are bound to enjoy seeing toys come
PICK OF THE WEEK
The CAMRA Real Ale & Cider Festival and Autumn Diesel Gala The Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells Friday-Sunday October 20-22, 2017
If you’re a fan of local brews, then there’s a wealth of IPAs, bitters and craft lagers to enjoy at the seventh CAMRA [Campaign for Real Ale] specialist beer festival. Taking place at the Spa Valley Railway’s Victorian Engine Shed at Tunbridge Wells West Station all weekend, there will be more than 160 beverages, including ciders, on offer, together with the chance to take a train ride along the heritage railway line, which goes to Groombridge and Eridge. Entry to the festival and stations is free, and if you want to travel on the train then normal ticket costs apply. For further information, see www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk
What’s On
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
FEATURES
93
A ROUND-UP OF THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS
Paul Dunton Live music
THE ROYAL OAK
The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… www.paulduntonandguests.com
Prospect Road, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late
SATURDAY Riff Raff KING CHARLES
to life courtesy of the clever use of puppetry and live music. Tickets cost £8 each and performances are 11.30am and 2pm. To book, call 01732 304 241 or visit www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk >> MONDAY It’s half-term week, so if you’re stuck for a few ideas on how to entertain your children then how about taking them to Penshurst Place? The stunning stately home will be hosting a week of fiendish fun, which includes a Halloween Garden Trail where you can stop en-route to hear spooky tales before creating some creepy crafts. The trails run from 10.30am until 5pm with craft activities from noon until 4pm. Activities are included in the standard grounds admission price. For further information visit www.penshurstplace.com >> TUESDAY If you want to continue the All Hallows’ theme for half-term, why not head over to the picturesque village of Bough Beech for its Spooky Forest Skills event? Taking place in the Kent Wildlife Trust’s visitor centre from 11.30am, there will be a fun few hours of woodland crafting, which includes spinning spider’s webs and making wizard and witches’ brooms out of natural materials. Children will also have the chance to learn some gruesome grizzly wildlife facts. Tickets cost £7 per person. Go to www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk
It’s a bumper packed week across the local music scene with a fantastic selection of live gigs and concerts. My top picks are as follows: For a great midweek outing, YAK headline The Forum tonight [Wednesday] with great support from Skinny Girl Diet and Suncharmer. For fans of classical music, the excellent Duo Dorado are at St Alban’s Church, Frant, on Friday and there is a superb concert by Follia at King Charles the Martyr Church on Saturday. Other great options for Friday night include The Sussex Arms Basement, with Baby In Vain, Punching Swans and Radidas all performing. Killer Queen are at The Assembly Hall Theatre on Saturday night, and on the same evening many popular local bands are in action in the pubs, with Duck Soup at The Beau Nash, Heyzeus at The Bull Inn and Riff Raff at The Royal Oak. Local singer-songwriter Lachlan Daly headlines at The Grey Lady on Sunday evening, with support from The Fufkins, Hannah Richards and Zoe Zori. THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE
The Pantiles, doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7. Websites www.pdag.co.uk + www.thegreylady.co.uk
WEDNESDAY Havelock + Sean Manuel + Summer Mooney
FRIDAY Soul Kitchen SUNDAY Lachlan Daly Band + The Fufkins + Hannah Richards + Zoe Zori TUESDAY Olivia Rose, Miar Murphy, Hamish Donald, Josh Renton Band THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM
Event information at www.twforum.co.uk
WEDNESDAY YAK + Skinny Girl Diet + Suncharmer THURSDAY Trampolene + Lucie Barât + Sisteray FRIDAY Rum Committee + Natty & Dwella + Erny Baits + TYNI + special guests SUNDAY The Picturebooks + 13 County
THURSDAY Be Bop A Lula SATURDAY Killer Queen SUNDAY John Mayall in Concert
THE MARTYR CHURCH
Nevill Street. Tickets and all concert information at www.kcmtw.org/ music/concerts/
THE BEDFORD
SATURDAY Concert by Follia
2 High Street, open all day, free entry, see www.thebedfordtw.co.uk
THE TOAD ROCK RETREAT
SATURDAY Live in the Living Room – Helping Harvey Fundraiser, in aid of victims of Hurricane Harvey
1 Upper Street, Rusthall, open all day, free entry, music from 7pm-9pm
TUESDAY Jimmy C & The Blues Dragons
THE BEAU NASH TAVERN
Mount Ephraim, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late
SATURDAY Duck Soup
THE BULL INN
Frant Road, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm onwards
SATURDAY Heyzeus ST ALBAN’S CHURCH
THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE
Crescent Road. Tickets and event info at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
Suncharmer
Frant. Concert details, times and ticket information: www.frantmusic.org.uk
FRIDAY Duo Dorado
THE SUSSEX ARMS
(basement venue), Sussex Mews. Open all day, music charge may apply music from 8.30pm onwards. For more information, see www.twforum.co.uk
FRIDAY Baby In Vain + Punching Swans + Radidas MONDAY The Rhythm Method + Lady Bird THE PUNCH & JUDY INN
11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm onwards
TUESDAY Wildwood Jack
94
NEWS
Sporting Times
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Wednesday October 18 | 2017
High-flying Chinnor keep hungry TJs at arm’s length Chinnor 24 Tonbridge Juddians 20 By Adam Hookway TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS had been in poor form recently but they left that back at home as they travelled to Chinnor in Oxfordshire and put up a valiant challenge against the second-placed side in National Two South. On 15 minutes Chinnor opened the scoring through No 8 Ben Manning, but TJs hit back with Mike O’Sullivan crashing over after a series of picks and drives, fly-half Jonny Bentley converting. Nathan Holmes’ conversion attempt from wide out hit the post and bounced back, so TJs trailed 7-5 at the break but were certainly still in the hunt.
FORWARD MARCH Mike O’Sullivan (centre) scored TJs’ first try
Photo: Adam Hookway
RUGBY:
In fact they took the lead just after the interval. Lock Luke Bellinger broke away from the maul and a long cut-out pass found flanker Richie Bent in space and able to cross for TJ’s second try. The conversion was wide but now TJs were ahead 10-7. Chinnor hit straight back as slick, close passing saw Manning force a break in TJs’ defence to cross for his second, Bentley adding the extras. Galbraith-Lowe got back to scoring ways with an effort of his own, though the conversion went astray again to go 15-14 ahead. Chinnor had to go for a penalty to get back in front at 17-15. After a nail-biting passage of play in which territory was hotly disputed, the hosts eased their nerves with a break on the right wing which ended in a try for Tom Ranaboldo. Bentley converted to give them a cushion of nine points at 24-15. The home side’s defensive line
was proving very difficult to break through so fly-half Liam Prescott decided to go over it with a cross-field kick. This time Watson made no mistake. He caught the ball and crashed over in the corner. Once more there was no conversion but with the score at 24-20 TJs were at least in possession of two bonus points: one for their four tries and one more for being within seven points of the victor. Chinnor Director of Rugby Matt Williams said: “TJs were the best team to come to Kinsey Road this season. We lost the collisions in the first half, we took our chances but credit to Tonbridge who made us work very hard.” Tonbridge would have taken two points but after a superb effort they came away wanting more. Another challenge awaits on Saturday as thirdplaced Cinderford arrive at The Slade (kick-off 3pm).
New diamond for jewel of south-east baseball By Andy Tong BASEBALL:
TONBRIDGE Baseball Club will throw curve balls and steal bases on a new diamond next year after another successful season. The club was set up 30 years ago by octogenarian Margaret Borley, and the fresh field of dreams at The Slade will be called Borley Field in her honour. The new facility cost £12,000 to install, and Kent County Council has contributed a grant of £5,000. The Wildcats team were runners-up in this season’s British Baseball Federation Double-A competition, losing to Leicester Blue Socks at the
York Hill takes its toll but Henderson shines CYCLING: SOUTHBOROUGH & District Wheelers [SDW] were well represented at the Catford Cycling Club hill climb, the oldest continuing cycle race in the world, dating back to 1886. The event was held at Yorks Hill, near Sevenoaks, and with an average gradient of 14 per cent and a maximum of 25 per cent this is one of the steepest climbs in the South-East. Covering the 0.8-mile ascent, the road was thronged with spectators. Keith Henderson completed the course in 2min 18sec to win the SDW hill climb trophy. He was closely followed by Omar Malik (2.37); Chris Duffy (3.04) and junior riders Christian Neal (3.07) and Peter Dennant (3.34). The event was won by M. Morris (NFTO) in an impressive 1.49. Competing at Cyclopark in Gravesend Rob Stephenson finished seventh in his race and is now promoted to Category 2. Torin Henderson finished ninth in this first Category 3 race, with Dave Pettit well placed in the Category 4 event. For information about club rides and activities, visit www.southborough-wheelers.co.uk
National Baseball Centre in Slough last month. The sluggers and pitchers have been improving with every season. In 2015 they won the Single A league, one level lower down, and then last season the club fielded two teams for the first time and were runners-up in the Single A. This year they also came second at the Ulster Baseball Tournament in Belfast. They have also launched a youth section with 20 children coming along to be trained by accredited coaches who learned the game when Margaret taught them a quarter of a century ago. Now 87, Margaret became the first person to be awarded an MBE for services to baseball in 2007.
JERSEY ROYAL Margaret Borley MBE receives an honorary shirt from Ben Carter and captain Gareth Nutt Dave Mote, one of the player-coaches who hails from Canada but only started playing for the first time aged 48, says the team is a mixture of young and old, men and women. “It’s one of very few sports where you can have that sort of age range,” he says. “It’s a great team
Allberry’s double keeps Wells on top of the pile Blackheath & Elthamians 2 Tunbridge Wells Men’s 1st XI 3 By Francis Bridgeman HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Men made it three wins from three to stay on top of South Premier League Division Two after an intensely fought battle with EH Trophy winners Blackheath. In the first half a well-organised home team moved the ball better than Wells – and were two goals to the good midway through the half, one from a penalty corner and one from open play. It could have been worse for the visitors had James Harris in the Wells goal not managed to get the faintest touch with his stick to a penalty stroke to deflect it on to the post. Despite a couple of notable absentees, the visitors showed resilience to get through this difficult period and finally started to assert their style of play.
They deservedly pulled a goal back just before half time as Ben Allberry fired home at the end of a well-worked corner routine. This goal buoyed Wells and the second half saw them play some of their best hockey of the season. The deficit was soon wiped out as captain Jack Garwood found the net at the end of flowing move. Wells then took the lead as Allberry notched his second goal, forcing a cross first time and high into the Blackheath net. It was his seventh goal already this season, putting him at the top of the scoring charts. The visitors then shut out the game, but were indebted to two more fine saves from man of the match Harris as the home side pressed hard in the final 10 minutes. Wells now have two successive home games at Tonbridge School, starting this Saturday against mid-table Trojans (1pm start).
game and you don’t have to be that fit to play. “It’s a good life-learning exercise and you get people coming along who would not normally paly any sport.” For more information about the club, visit www.tonbridgebaseball.com
Ladies lose out in bruising encounter East London 2 Tunbridge Wells Ladies 1st XV 0 By Francis Bridgeman HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ladies fought hard against East London in a close and gritty game at Lee Valley but came away with no points in East Region Division One South. The players received a few bumps and bruises along the way as Wells tried to maintain their strength in possession right across the pitch. Despite holding their press throughout the first half, however, the visitors conceded a goal. Going into the second half, Wells retained their shape well but struggled to find the right outlets to threaten the East London goal. The home side always looked threatening on the break, and it was from one of these that they scored again midway through the second period. Next up are Bishops Stortford, who sit just a point ahead of Wells in the table, at Hawkenbury on Saturday (October 21, 1pm start).
Sporting Times
Wednesday October 18 | 2017
NEWS
95
Tonbridge Ladies hit double figures
ON THE SLIDE Megan Akehurst, who scored three goals, performs defensive duties
Barming 2 Tonbridge Angels Ladies 11
Photo: David Couldridge
By Dan Couldridge FOOTBALL: ANGELS ladies put in a ruthless display to see off their Kent Reliance Women’s Plate hosts Barming. Having been well beaten on a trip to Barming the previous year, the team were warned not to underestimate their opponents even though were only able to start with ten players. Tonbridge soon set the tone, going two goals up within two minutes. The opener after just 34 seconds owed much to a perfectly executed cross from Becky Saxby which was converted by Megan Akehurst. Saxby reaped the reward a minute later
by getting behind the defence and delivering a well-taken finish. It could have been three in three minutes but Abbie Skilton’s attempt was well saved. The home side settled and pulled one back in the eighth minute when Leanne Foster headed back into her own goal. Barming made life hard for the Angels for long periods and the visitors needed another goal to settle the nerves. This arrived in the 40th minute with Beth Kemp teeing up Becky Janes for a curled finish. Janes scored again before half-time, picking up a loose ball and ramming a shot into the bottom corner. There was just enough time for Skilton to get her name on the scoresheet and
give Tonbridge a 5-1 lead at the interval. Despite making three changes Angels’ flow was not interrupted, with Akehurst and Skilton both scoring twice to complete hat-tricks, and by the 63rd minute the score was 9-1. With ten minutes left Foster barged a Barming forward off the ball in the area, and the hosts scored from the spot. Lauryn Underhill scored the tenth and Janes had the easiest of tap-ins to complete her own hat-trick after a great run and pass by Courtney Smith. Tonight (October 18) Angels have a glamorous tie at Charlton Athletic in the Women’s Cup First Round, before hosting league leaders Long Lane Development in a top-of-the-table clash on Sunday (October 22).
Angels lose to late penalty Clarke punishes Rusthall By James Rowe FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS were cruelly denied a point at the Silver Jubilee Stadium by a disputed penalty in the 90th minute – conceded by Sonny Miles, who was playing his 300th game for the club. It looked as if a draw was probably going to be a fair result as the Bostik League Premier sides had served up an end-to-end affair teams in the second half. On 19 minutes a cross from Luke Blewden found the head of Nathan Elder unmarked but the striker’s effort was just off target. The runs of left midfielder Joe Turner were providing the Angels most productive outlet. Three minutes before half-time Miles’ header from Craig Stones’ cross drift just wide of the post. Just before the interval, a Hendon forward was tripped in the area by Callum Adonis-Taylor and the referee awarding a penalty. But Ashley Nathaniel-George’s spot-kick was weak and allowed an easy save for Henly, so both teams went in at the break goalless. Angels seized the initiative in the second half
TOP DRAWER Sonny Miles jumps highest in his 300th game for Tonbridge
Corinthian 5 Rusthall 0
and on 52 minutes good hold-up play by Elder allowed the ball to be fed back to Alex Akrofi. He kept possession well and found substitute Chris Kinnear, whose pile-driver set the net bulging and put the visitors a goal to the good. Just three minutes later, however, Hendon drew level when Jake Eggleton’s excellent cross gave Michael Corcoran the opportunity to equalise. With everything to play for both teams went for the winner winner and an Elder shot on the turn was just wide of Hendon’s left-hand post. It seemed the game was destined for a draw until the intervention of referee Conor Farrell in the 90th minute, pointing to the spot after a foul by Miles on substitute Daniel Uchechi. After missing a penalty already the hosts were not to be denied again and Niko Muir made no mistake, sending Henly the wrong way. Angels manager Steve McKimm said: “This was hard to take as over the 90 minutes we had done enough to justify the draw. “That said, we conceded far too quickly after going ahead and with an inconsistent referee you always run the risk.” Angels entertain Tooting & Mitcham United at home on Saturday (October 21, kick-off 3pm).
By Richard Smith FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL were given a harsh lesson that in the Premier Division of the Southern Counties East League, if you give the ball away too often you will be punished. This was especially the case when opponents have a winger with the pace and ability of Louis Clarke, who bagged a hat-trick. Corinthian looked to find Clarke at every opportunity and he gave the Rustics an early warning when he hit the post after seven minutes. Steph Harper had a chance to give the visitors the lead in the 12th minute but his right-footed strike from just outside the box was well held by keeper Aiden Prall. On 19 minutes the hosts took a deserved lead as Clarke raced on to an interception and expertly
Photo: David Couldridge
Hendon 2 Tonbridge Angels 1
slotted past Joe Cullip in the Rusthall goal. The home side were now in control and Cullip kept the Rustics in the game on 33 minutes when he bravely dived at the feet of Conor Johnson. Just three minutes after the restart Clarke scored his second, which was almost a carbon copy of his first. And it was no surprise when Clarke completed his hat-trick on 69 minutes. Corinthian added two more goals in stoppage time through Ryan Savage and Donvieve Jones. To add to the misery Rusthall lost Harper after a clash of heads. Rusthall’s squad is looking thin after the loss of three players and with two more at university. But John Phillips, who was injured in pre- season came through 70 minutes in the reserves. The battered Rustics must now pick themselves up of the first round proper of the FA Vase on Saturday (October 21) at home to Epsom & Ewell (kick-off 3pm).