Wednesday November 29 | 2017
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All Fidelity staff have ‘chance to follow their roles’
Fireworks prove a damp squib
ALL 650 employees of Fidelity in Hildenborough will be entitled to keep their jobs when it moves the branch to Surrey in 2020, the Times has been told. The investment and pensions company revealed on November 21 that it will move its Tonbridge office 25 miles round the M25. The company’s press release stated: “It plans to relocate the majority of employees and roles to its existing Kingswood site.” A consultation process with staff will begin in January and there are fears that many will not be able to make the move.
PHOTO: David Hodgkinson
PAPER
INSIDE
THE UNKNOWN HERO Meet the man who has helped 1,700 youths in custody Page 14
11 MONTHS ON RUN
James Hughes ends marathon ‘JOGLE’ for local charity Page 2
Inflammatory A spokesperson told the Times last week: “We have said all employees will be able to follow their roles to Kingswood.” She said that the Times’ report that ‘there are likely to be significant job losses’ was ‘factually incorrect’ and ‘might be construed as inflammatory’ and asked for it to be removed. Fidelity later clarified: “This is a relocation plan, employees will be given the chance to follow their roles and relocate to the Kingswood office. “We fully anticipate that most roles and people will move from Tonbridge to Kingswood.” Nicolas Heslop, Leader of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, called the move ‘a huge shock and clearly an enormous worry for those affected’. He added: “Clearly staff will be feeling worried and vulnerable. “We will of course work with them to minimise the impact.”
Fireworks lit up the sky over the Big Bridge as almost 10,000 people watched the climax of the Tonbridge Christmas Festival – but the display was cut short due to safety fears. See page 4
Council rejects bid to transform old CAB building into a cultural centre By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk A PROPOSAL to buy the old Citizens Advice Bureau building on River Walk as an Asset of Community Value [ACV] in order to stop it being sold to private developers has been turned down by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council. The campaign group Keep River Lawn Green [KRLG] submitted an application last month to purchase the site at 1-4 River Walk and convert it into a cultural centre with an art gallery, museum, bar and café.
It is understood that national pub chain JD Wetherspoon, who run The Humphrey Bean on the High Street, is also interested in putting in a bid for the site.
‘The riverside is one of Tonbridge’s most unrealised assets – we can change that’ Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s Cabinet voted on October 11 to allow the sale of the public land to go ahead so that housing could be built on the site. But before the decision, which was taken
by five councillors, KRLG succeeded in having the area nominated as an Asset of Community Value. This allows any interested party to put in a bid to buy the site. They have six weeks to do so, and then a further six months to raise the required finances. Now the council has turned down the initial bid. It has said there is no prospect of the building being in a position to ‘further social well-being or social interests’ within the next five years because the process has already been started to put it up for sale.
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FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE Your pull-out of best presents to buy this Christmas Page 25
ANGELIC HOSTS
Ladies’ debut at Longmead to raise LGBT awareness Page 2
Local News
‘We are disappointed but not surprised’ Continued from page 1 Mark Raymond, the council’s Chief Corporate Policy Officer, wrote to KRLG yesterday [November 28] quoting Section 88(2) of the Localism Act 2011: “As land that has furthered the social well-being or social interests of the local community in the recent past, the test is whether it is realistic to consider it will do so again during the next five years.” He said the council decided to sell the land on February 9: “I therefore conclude that the above test has not been met given the prior decision to dispose of the property on the open market.
Well-being “It is not realistic to think, therefore, that 1-4 River Walk will further social well-being or social interests of the local community again during the next five years.” The KRLG application had stated: “The whole area here is underused, and redeveloped areas such as the Town Lock have become magnets for anti-social behaviour. “We believe this trend will continue all the while there is a lack of evening leisure activity along our waterfront. A thriving enterprise here will re-energise this quarter in a way that retirement flats or luxury apartments cannot.
“The riverside is one of Tonbridge’s most unrealised assets – we can change that.” Previously the building has been used as park keepers’ accommodation, Tonbridge Urban District Council’s rent office and Tonbridge Chamber of Commerce’s offices before CAB moved in. “The ongoing theme has been that it has been used to provide support for the community through a number of organisations at affordable rents,” says KRLG. The application is for a multi-purpose venue ‘which can fill several cultural vacuums in our town’ including a museum and art gallery. The plans included the construction of an orangery, with a bar and café. The operation was to be run by the community with profits distributed through a charitable trust ‘with a focus on arts and homelessness reduction projects’. KRLG’s Mark Hood said: “We are disappointed but not surprised by this decision. There is no appeal process for applicants so we cannot challenge the legality of the decision. “We very much hope that the existing building can be preserved by a subsequent buyer. We are fearful that avarice will come before aesthetics and another characterful corner of our town will be replaced by a bland box.” JD Wetherspoon declined to comment on any ACV bid.
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Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Christmas starts with silent night NINE thousand people gathered in the town to enjoy the festive entertainment and the switching-on of the Christmas lights in Tonbridge on Sunday [November 26]. But the climactic 15-minute fireworks display above Tonbridge Castle at 6pm was stopped after three minutes due to concerns over ‘burning
debris’ endangering the crowd and nearby properties. The festival was organised by Tonbridge Rotary Club, who said: “Just after the start of the display, professional concern was expressed about burning debris falling on the audience and surrounding buildings and the serious risk of injury to the audience and of fire. “For these reasons the display was stopped. Rotary are obviously sorry that this was necessary, but the safety of the public is paramount. The rest of the day’s festivities were hailed as a great success. A variety of entertainment was staged including Courtney BRIGHT SPARK: Mayor Roger Dalton Hadwin, a finalist on turns on the lights with the cast of the The Voice Kids UK, Lions community panto Peter Pan Razzamataz Theatre
PHOTOS: David Hodgkinson
NEWS
FESTIVE FUN The High Street is illuminated
School, the Tonbridge Community Singers and rock groups Hobo and the Hippies and Roxxon. The Mayor of Tonbridge & Malling, Cllr Roger Dalton, turned on the lights with actors from the Angel Centre pantomime Peter Pan. He said: “Christmas has arrived in Tonbridge! Well done to the
James the Jogler reaches finish line after 11 months By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk JAMES HUGHES has run from one end of the country to the other since the start of the year. He arrived at his destination, 812.82 miles on, at St Mary’s Platt Memorial Hall for a quiz night on Saturday. The 27-year-old has completed the ‘JOGLE’, running from John O’Groats to Land’s End – but has done it with a difference: He has mostly pounded the streets of Tonbridge.
‘I was a bit naive at the start, I didn’t think it would be too bad’ In the process he has raised £2,400 for the Alexandra Sales Trust, which helps to fund activities for children suffering from cancer. The local charity was set up by Alexandra’s parents after she died of a rare form of cancer, mastitis rhabdomyosarcoma, three
years ago at the age of 17. James knows the family closely through his friendship with Alexandra’s sister Georgina. The trust is staging the quiz night as a fundraiser and asked him to try to end his challenge on the night. That meant he has had to increase his weekly tally from 16 to 22 miles in order to meet the deadline. His initial target, including altitude, was 15.63 miles and 364.31ft. James (pictured) was not able to run the real JOGLE route because of his full-time job at Newton Waterproofing Systems – and the fact he has to walk his dog Archie the lurcher twice a day. “Unfortunately walking was not allowed, not even to the pub,” he says. “The rule was that I had to be outside, so I couldn’t use treadmills.
Tonbridge Rotary Club for doing such a fantastic job again this year and huge thanks to all the groups who helped to make the event so entertaining.” The Rotary Club’s extravaganza was backed by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, Lions Club, Nick Shaw’s Leisure and Razzamataz.
“I was a bit naive at the start, I didn’t think it would be too bad,” he admits. “But starting in January, I was running in sub-zero temperatures. “It was mentally tough. And I had a few problems with my calves and knees. “I just had to look after myself. My wife Becky took care of me and kept me motivated.” He has not just been running around Tonbridge. He went on holiday to the US but didn’t take time off – he ran in the Grand Canyon and at altitude in Lake Tahoe. He also ran in 33C of heat in Hong Kong. James is a flanker for Maidstone Rugby Club, but had to undergo surgery on his shoulder last year. So he had a basic level of fitness and started running to stop getting fat. Now he has lost a stone since January. “After losing this much weight, I would probably get battered around the rugby field,” he admits. How does it feel to finish after 47 weeks of running? “It’s a bit surreal, I’ve been doing it for 11 months, planning around what I’ve got on each week and the weather. “I’m happy to be finishing but I don’t know how I’m going to feel next week when I’ve got nothing to do.” If you would like to support James, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ James-Jogs-JOGLE
Angels Ladies play at Longmead to mark LGBT campaign TONBRIDGE ANGELS Ladies will play their first league game at Longmead Stadium this Sunday [December 3] to mark this year’s Rainbow Laces campaign. The awareness scheme is run by the Football Association and Stonewall, an organisation with supports lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights. In a show of solidarity for LGBT+ people in sport, the team and management will wear rainbow laces in their boots for the South East Counties League match against Barming.
Rachel Watson, the Ladies’ secretary and treasurer, said: “I’m excited for the Rainbow Laces game and think it’s great that Tonbridge Angels Ladies are showing the public what we do privately – that we are welcoming and inclusive to all, and that we value and celebrate our LGBT+ players and supporters. It will be a great afternoon of football and togetherness.” Entry will be by voluntary donation and the match will kick off at 2pm. The tea bar and main bar will be open.
PHOTO: David Couldridge
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SOLIDARITY Angels Ladies are ‘welcoming and inclusive’
Local News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
All welcome to enjoy a free festive lunch CHRISTMAS Day lunch will be provided for free by members of a Tunbridge Wells church to anyone who would like to attend. St Augustine’s parishioners have been providing a turkey or vegetarian meal for more than 30 years to those who are on their own or in need. It is being held at Age UK centre in Camden Road. There will also be Christmas pudding, mince pies, cheese and biscuits and tea and coffee. The festivities begin at 12pm and the meal is served at 12.30pm. Transport can be arranged for those living within a reasonable distance from the town centre. For more details call (01892) 522525 or email office@st-augustine.co.uk
Christmas with Philomel THE Philomel Singers are presenting a concert of seasonal music and readings, on Saturday, December 9 under their Director of Music, Tim Daniell. The concert takes place in the Tonbridge Methodist Church, Higham Lane, at 7.30pm, with a retiring collection in aid of The Hospice in the Weald. The Choir meets every Wednesday afternoon from 2pm until 4pm in the rehearsal room of Tonbridge Parish Church, Church Lane.
Tip to finally re-open NORTH Farm tip is set to re-open on Monday, December 11, Kent County Council has confirmed. The Tunbridge Wells centre has been closed since mid-September for upgrade work and was due to open this week, but delays have pushed the date back a fortnight.
Bid for funds to build COUNTY Hall is lobbying central government for a share of the national £2.3billion Housing Infrastructure Fund. Local authorities have been invited to bid for grants of up to £250million as part of a plan to deliver 100,000 homes across the country.
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Bennett Head says he feels ‘humbled’ as he accepts award at Buckingham Palace THE Executive Head of Bennett Memorial, Ian Bauckham, is celebrating after receiving the CBE from His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace during an investiture ceremony on Thursday [November 23]. He was appointed Head in 2004 and has helped make Bennett one of the most popular and high performing schools in the South East. He was awarded the honour for his services to education. He also leads the Tenax Schools Trust, a Church of England Multi Academy Trust which exists to provide ‘outstanding education’ in secondary and primary schools across Kent and East Sussex. It includes, under its umbrella, Bennett Memorial and also the new Bishop Chavasse Primary in Tonbridge.
PROUD Executive Head Ian Bauckham
Fears bus services could be axed as County Hall considers cutting costs By William Mata
will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BUS passengers will be invited to take part in a consultation into plans that could see a number of lifeline services scrapped. Kent County Council (KCC) is considering a move to stop subsidising 78 services, including a combined 23 in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, to save an estimated £4million. Tomorrow [Thursday] County Hall’s Environment and Transport committee are set to approve a consultation into the plans, which is likely to be held from January next year. This could see anything from one service a week on the route being dropped to a whole service being scrapped, a thought that worries Tunbridge Wells Councillor Peter Lidstone. The Liberal Democrat member for St John’s said: “These are cuts which by KCC’s own admission will have a
greater impact on the elderly, the disabled and their carers. “More people will be forced into their cars, and back onto our congested roads. It’s madness.” The county council was unable to say last night [Tuesday] which services could be cut partially and which entirely. The authority subsidises some services completely and for others provides partial support alongside an independent operator.
Consultation Matthew Balfour, KCC cabinet member for highways, said: “The contracts under discussion could be support for the whole service, some evening journeys, weekend journeys, diversions off of the route or specific journeys. “At present it is proposed to reduce the budget for Socially Necessary Bus Services (SNBS) by £4million over the coming two years at a time
PHOTO: Martin Dalton
NEWS IN BRIEF
NEWS
Mr Bauckham said: “I am both delighted and humbled to accept this award, and pay tribute to the many great educationalists and teachers with whom I have worked over the years both locally and nationally, including all those at Bennett. “Offering a great education to our young people is one of the most important investments we make in the future and I am proud to have made a small contribution to this work.” Mr Bauckham has a number of other national roles, including advising the Department for Education, inspecting schools and heading the Association of Schools and College Leaders of which he was national president from 2013-2014.
See also page 14
when budgets are extremely tight. “However, we recognise the significant importance of these bus contracts affected by the proposals which account for 1.6 million journeys. “The proposal has identified bus contracts, supported by KCC, which, subject to consultation, could be withdrawn– it does not necessarily mean the whole service will go.” Hugo Pound, chairman of Tunbridge Wells Labour Party, added: “The county council lament the cuts that are being forced on them and call for the easing of government austerity measures. “Anyone would think he is not the same party as the government that is causing them. “This wringing of hands and crocodile tears by Conservative council leaders is simply not believable. “If these Tory councils were really worried, they would be applying maximum pressure on their MPs to change government policy. “As Conservatives they are fully complicit in these austerity measures. They are all in it together and it is their job to get us all out of it.” The Times will publish details of how to get involved with the consultation when they become available.
SERVICES BEING CONSIDERED FOR CHANGE IN TONBRIDGE AND TUNBRIDGE WELLS INCLUDE: 277 – Pembury village to Pembury Hospital 293 – Tunbridge Wells to Tenterden and Rye 401 – Tonbridge to Westerham 222 – Tonbridge to Borough Green 296 – Tunbridge Wells to Paddock Wood 6 – East Peckham to Tunbridge Wells 267/268 – Hawkhurst to Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge 282, 283, 285 – Tunbridge Wells to Hawkenbury/Ravenswood 237 – Chiddingstone to Tunbridge Wells War Memorial 435 – Sevenoaks to Weald and Tonbridge 204, 210 – Tonbridge to Underriver/Leigh/ Charcott 297 – Tenterden to Tunbridge Wells 202, 211 – Tonbridge to Barden Park/ Hildenborough and Station
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Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Mayor to bring a smile to the face of less fortunate children HUNDREDS of less fortunate youngsters can look forward to a happier Christmas thanks to the Teddy Mayor Toy Appeal. Since 1989 donated gifts have been delivered to children and teenagers around Tunbridge Wells borough who may not otherwise have had a present. Mayor Julia Soyke launched the 2017 charity appeal on Wednesday [November 22] in Royal Victoria Place with a cheque presentation from Tesco, pledging £200 worth of gift vouchers. She said: “I am hoping to make a great many children happy, there are a lot of disadvantaged people in Tunbridge Wells. “The feedback we have had has been really encouraging and it is getting more support every year. It is not just one toy per child as each of them will receive a large bag.”
This year organisers expect around 300 youngsters to benefit from the scheme, most of whom have been recommended by social services. Businesses and the public are encouraged to donate gifts at a number of drop-off points around the town, as well as in Cranbrook and Paddock Wood, with the final day on Friday, December 15. Some venues will feature Christmas ‘giving trees’, with tags that offer ideas for suitable gifts. There is also an online Amazon Wishlist featuring lots of suggestions. Toys, games, books, puzzles and DVDs are collected and sorted by volunteers at The Big Yellow Self Storage Company depot in Longfield Road. For more information and a full list of drop-off points visit www.twmta.co.uk
NEWS IN BRIEF
Pop-in to the pop-up Christmas market SMALL Business Saturday on December 2 is to be marked in Tunbridge Wells with a pop up market. Traders who are part of RTW Together will showcase their goods for Christmas shoppers in Ely Court, next to Royal Victoria Place, from 9am. Skincare, arts and home décor is all on sale while town MP Greg Clark is also expected to attend.
Hospital service move
CHEQUE OUT Tesco managers Jordan McGuire (left) and Tammie Perry (right) present £200 to Mayor Julia Soyke and appeal co-ordinator Karen Collins
PATIENTS requiring some non-emergency procedures could be seen in Maidstone Hospital rather than Pembury this winter. Tunbridge Wells patients could face a 20mile trip as the NHS Trust looks to prevent a crisis of bed space this winter. A spokesman was not able to confirm which exact services would be moved other than ‘some elective planned procedures’.
Top marks for local schools… By William Mata
will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
competition locally, all schools around here have much to offer. “Exam success matters but it is not the be all and end all. We focus a great deal on holistic and extra-curricular education. “However, we always look to get better still and get more accustomed to new specifications at both GCSE and A Level.” The results were published in the newspaper on Sunday [November 26]. The ranking was based on 2017 results with A*-B grades for A Level double weighted.
HEALTHY competition between local schools is helping to keep them high in the national rankings when it comes to exam results. Five state secondaries and two private schools in West Kent made it into the coveted top 150 lists released by The Sunday Times, which bases rankings on this year’s A Level and GCSE grades. Tonbridge Grammar School for girls ranked ninth in the state schools category, having Class sizes slipped slightly from fifth last year. Boys school Judd in Tonbridge ranked at Andrew Leale, director of admissions at 13, Tunbridge Wells boys school Skinners’ Tonbridge School, said: “The grades came 47, Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar reflect hard work and dedicated. School came 48 and Tonbridge grammar “Most importantly, however, the boys develop an engagement with and an Weald of Kent came 136. On the independent side, Tonbridge excitement towards their subjects.” School finished 42 while Sevenoaks He added: “There are a lot of School came eighth – which placed it schools in the local area which also achieve excellent results ahead of Eton College, the former stomping ground of many a politician. and they present valuable PLEASED Edward Wesson, competition. Edward Wesson, headteacher at headteacher at Skinners’ “But Tonbridge School is Skinners’, said: “There is a lot of
RESULT Jake Rule, Matt Roberts, Alfie Cubberley, George Spice and Luca Tonelli who all got 10 A*s (or 9s) in their GCSEs at Skinners’ not an exam factory, we place huge importance on extra-curricular activities. “We are always looking to improve further.” Sevenoaks School took the additional honour of being named Independent Secondary School of the Year by the Sunday Times for the second time. This acknowledged the ethos and opportunities offered by the school as well as their exam grades.
Arrests in Tonbridge THREE women have been arrested in Tonbridge on suspicion of running a brothel. The arrests were made following the execution of a search warrant by Kent Police at an address in Quarry Hill Road on November 21, assisted by Home Office immigration officers. A number of items including phones and a quantity of cash were seized. The women, aged 49, 46 and 39, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the management of a brothel. They were all later released, pending further investigation.
Waste scheme backed PLANS to make garden waste collection an opt-in charged service for residents have been backed by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s cabinet. The authority will seek to join Tonbridge & Malling and Dartford councils in a joint bin collection contract to begin in March 2019. This will also see a new recycling and waste collection service of glass bottles and jars with plastics and cans. The contract is due to be finalised next year.
Local News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
NEWS
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Stamp duty change will help young buyers but other measures needed
Business as usual during centre’s redevelopment
cent deposit to secure a mortgage, £5,000 off £30,000 is a significant amount.” Benefits to first time buyers do not stop there. Those spending up to £500,000 will also benefit as the first £300,000 of the price will not be subjected to tax. The move is predicted to save the average first time buyer £1,660, and will cost the Treasury an estimated £3.2billion over the next five years. Previously the tax was paid on all purchases above £125,000. Mark Sparrow, sales manager at Wood & Pilcher in the High Street, Tunbridge Wells, said: “It would be churlish not to welcome the abolition. “It is to be encouraged, but the only way it will work in the long term if it is deployed alongside other measures, such as more house building, as there is not enough housing and flats in Tunbridge Wells. Most young people want to live near the town centre.”
LIBRARY books and museum artefacts will still be accessible to the public for the two year period it takes to create the new £12million Tunbridge Wells Cultural and Learning Hub. The Town Hall has pledged to keep the services available when the library and museum, along with the Adult Education Centre, are closed from the end of next year, although decisions have still to be taken on where those services will be located.
UNSURPRISED Robert Jacobs of Savills estate agency
By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk FIRST time buyers and estate agents this week welcomed the abolition of stamp duty on homes sold to first time buyers but warned it needs to be ‘deployed alongside other measures’ to boost the local market. Chancellor Philip Hammond announced in his Budget [Wednesday November 22] that the tax will be immediately abolished for all properties up to £300,000 bought by first time buyers. Robert Jacobs, head of residential sales at Tunbridge Wells estate agents Savills, said: “Any boost for those trying to get onto the property ladder has to be a good thing. “For those looking to buy their first home for £300,000, the previous stamp duty rate would have been £5,000. So if you are saving for a 10 per
buyers are almost always people who earn their money in London and choose to live in Tunbridge Wells, usually in their mid-20s. “People have still got to save money, but this saving can pay for legal bills and it is a significant amount.”
‘The market has seized up due to a perceived weak Government and uncertainty around Brexit’
The Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) has warned the move could drive house prices up and leave current home owners as the real beneficiaries. Mr Sparrow commented: “That is a possibility and has happened in the past, but that is not the nature of these things now.” Simon Spare, director of Thompson Spare estate agents also in High Street, Tunbridge Wells, said: “In the short term Commuters it will help the housing market which Mr Sparrow said 20 per cent of the has seized up a lot due to the perceived properties on the estate agent’s books weak Government and uncertainty around Brexit. cost less than £300,000. These are typically one-bedroom “Prices are starting to stagnate, and there is a lot of downward pressure and we apartments costing under £200k, are suffering because of it. two-bed apartments which cost up to “However, the move is more £250k and red brick Victorian ambiguous than at first glance. houses which can cost up WOOD & PILCHER’S to £300,000. This might help sellers and affect Mark Sparrow He added: “First time the market in different ways.”
CASE STUDY: ‘YOU CAN’T GET MUCH FOR YOUR MONEY UNDER £300,000’ POTENTIAL first time buyer Jacob Tassaker, 28, is hoping to find a home with partner Scarlett Attwood, 25 (pictured), and leave their current rented property in Rusthall. The business development manager is negotiating a move to a three-bedroom cottage in Wadhurst and said the stamp duty abolition could save the pair around £5,000. “We had a feeling there might be potential for this in the budget so held out paying any sort of
solicitor fee. But you can’t get much for your money under £300k in Tunbridge Wells. “We started looking at Wadhurst because it needed to be somewhere with a station but also near to Tunbridge Wells that was less expensive. It was quite a long process of looking. “It is still difficult but this has definitely made things easier. I don’t know how it will affect the economy but I am happy because I benefit from it.”
EXPERT OPINION TONY PORTER, director of Sevenoaksbased Regalpoint Homes comments: “The decision is ground-breaking for house hunters and house-builders alike, hopefully making it much easier for firsttime buyers to commit to purchasing a property.” ELLIOT CASTLE, founder of We Buy Any Home adds: “This measure gives a helping hand to those looking to buy their first property and overall it is a step in the right direction to encourage fluidity in the property market.”
Continuation A spokesman from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) said: “All services will be maintained during the development. “However, some disruption is to be expected and the project is exploring the best way to provide services throughout the building and refurbishment works. “We are exploring options for delivery of an interim combined museum and library offer and are committed to ongoing outreach work during the closure period.” TWBC estimate the hub will open in early 2021, subject to a successful grant application from Arts Council England and Heritage Lottery Fund. Multi-purpose building The Camden Centre in Market Square will be open as normal during the redevelopment with library and museum staff likely to be re-homed there. CLOSURE Tunbridge Wells library will be transformed
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Planning applications to be more expensive as prices are increased EXTRA charges involving planning applications and advice are to be introduced by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to boost its revenue. Fees charged for people to submit planning applications are set to rise 20 per cent, in line with Government recommendations, to net an overall £93,358. Currently the fee is £172. This will rise by £34 to £206. The council’s Cabinet has approved a financial plan to find £109,574 in the next financial year (April 2018-March 2019) from their services. This also includes charging £25 for copies of tree protection orders and £30 for pre-application advice on high hedges. Other changes will see flexible venue space Camden Centre in Market Square lose its lounge and gallery as rooms for the public to access.
Inflation This is to house staff, and possibly exhibits and books, from the Library and Museum which are to be renovated into a centralised hub. Fees at the Kent & Sussex Crematorium, in Bayhall Road, Tunbridge Wells, will increase by the retail price index. Tickets for the ice rink in Calverley Grounds are likely to rise in line with inflation for the next Christmas season. Director of Finance, Lee Colyer told the committee that officers had worked hard to balance the books. He said: “We have exceeded the amount of income we were looking to achieve in drawing up these proposals. “That extra capital will go some way towards continuing the broad range of services we provide.”
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Wildlife shots impress judges in children’s photography contest WINNER Alfie Packer’s shot of a deer
SIX young photographers have been named above 400 entrants as winners of the ‘wlife03’ competition. All primary school children in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge were invited to take part in the wildlife picture contest which ran throughout the Autumn. Competition organiser and budding photographer Sophia Dennett, ten, held an awards ceremony at St James CE Primary School, which she attends, on Friday, November 17. Professional photographers and art experts helped her with judging entrants which they whittled down to find winners for the five categories. Judging was a close call, particularly for the Year 5 category which saw two entrants, Oli Stammers and Alfie Packer, named joint winners. In addition to age categories which went up to Year 6 there was also a special People’s Choice award given to Year 6 student Reuben Strand for his fun picture of alpacas.
RAISED SUCCESS Winners with their works
ON THE WEB Digby Kewell enjoys his photo
Sophia said: “I’ve really enjoyed encouraging everyone to take part in photography and think about wildlife. “I’d like to thank all the contestants for their brilliant work, to the judges who gave such detailed feedback plus the organisations that have helped us so much.” All the shortlisted photographs are currently on display at Royal Victoria Place, on a wildlife wall next to the Pandora shop on the upper floor.
ROLL OF HONOUR – WHO TOOK THE PRIZES? NAME Digby Kewell Sam Jenner Alfie Packer Oli Stammers Phinn Neilson Reuben Strand
SCHOOL St James CE Infants Harlands Primary Paddock Wood Primary Bishop’s Down Primary Speldhurst CE School Langton Green Primary School
CATEGORY Year 3 and under Year 4 Year 5 Year 5 Year 6 People’s Choice
ARTWORK Spider and web Spoonbill bird in flight Deer Fern leaf Giraffe Alpacas
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BUSINESS
Local Business News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
PROPOSAL BID expert Ben Collins briefs town leaders
BID benefits are worth paying an extra levy – businesses are told By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BUSINESSES are being encouraged to agree an extra levy on their rates to help pay for attractions such as arts, food and culture events that will draw more people into the town. RTW Together, a group that connects local businesses in a town partnership, is asking them to look at the idea of creating a Business Improvement District [BID]. This would see all business ratepayers within a defined area charged a levy, typically 1.5 per cent of their rates, which would be spent on agreed improvements that would benefit the town. The levy could see a payment increase ranging from £50 to hundreds of pounds, depending on the size of the business.
‘As we start the consultation period, we are seeking ideas and visions for the future from businesses’ In some of the 270 BIDs formed nationwide, this has seen Christmas lights erected, food festivals held and areas pedestrianised. The BID agreement lasts for five years before being voted on again. The idea is that the greater footfall brought by the improvements would bring benefits well worth paying the extra fee. Members of companies would work with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and RTW Together to decide how to best spend the money. BID expert Ben Collins briefed leaders from the council and businesses, as well as MP Greg Clark, at a networking event organised by RTW Together on Friday November 17 at Woods restaurant.
Ballot
looking at increasing footfall with arts, food and culture events. “It is now about starting that process over the next few months, asking businesses for their input, and it is very much the start of the conversation.” While the exact area the lines would be drawn for the agreement has yet to be decided, it is widely thought the entirety of central Tunbridge Wells would be included. A BID agreement would be decided in a ballot where business ratepayers affected would vote for or against implementing the plans. In other towns, businesses typically vote around 80 per cent in favour at the first ballot and then around 90 per cent in subsequent votes. Ms Pengelly added: “RTW Together will not be directing the bid, it is very much the businesses. “As we start the consultation period, we are seeking ideas and visions for the future from businesses. “It is those things that will be put forward as part of the business plan.”
HOW HAVE BIDS BEEN RECEIVED ELSEWHERE? Since the first BID was established in 2004, the movement has spread around the country with 270 now operating. Orpington has recently voted to extend their BID for an extra five years after their first project, created in 2013, paid for the town’s Christmas lights among other projects. In Canterbury, the BID board has focused on keeping the city clean, attractive and safe, while Winchester raised its profile by holding festivals. Tony Blair’s Labour Government introduced the scheme in 2004 as a way of increasing strength in high streets. Critics say the schemes saddle small businesses with a stealth tax.
Town Manager Karen Pengelly said plans are still in the Feasibility Stage (the first of five), which includes establishing a need and raising awareness. “When businesses collaborate and work together, things tend to be improved. “For retail, food and beverage we are
POSITIVE Karen Pengelly of RTW Together
Local Business News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Firm’s growth is among best across country A DIGITAL marketing agency has been named as the fastest growing technology firm in the South East. Tonbridge-based company Reddico, which provides industry-leading search marketing services to businesses, was crowned in the Deloitte UK Technology Fast 50 Awards on November 16.
Success All firms in the technology sector are ranked based on revenue growth over the last four years. Reddico saw growth of 851 per cent, which placed the company 30th nationally. Other winners on the list include London-based food delivery giant Deliveroo and flower transportation service Bloom & Wild. Starting off in 2012, Reddico turned over £100,000 and this year has passed the £1million mark.
SUCCESS Reddico founders Luke and Nick Redding
Director and co-founder Luke Redding, 32, said: “It sounds obvious, but it’s down to being good at what we do. “When you start up your business and it’s just you, there’s a real need to be good at what you do. “You need to invest in yourself and have the desire to spend time mastering your craft to get results that have real meaning.” The company has now automatically been entered into the Deloitte Fast 500 EMEA Awards, which compare firms across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Mr Redding’s brother, Nick Redding, 32, the firm’s Managing Director and fellow co-founder, added: “We are delighted to have made it on to the Fast 50. “It is a big step up for us and our clients. It shows just how hard everyone works, and everyone’s to thank for what we have achieved.”
Friendships blossom with help from tech companies
TALKING POINT: Nextdoor UK’s Nick Lisher (pictured right) in conversation with one enthusiastic community member
WHILE some have blamed technology for weakening communities, one group of designers are hoping their app will allow neighbours to become good friends. More than 12,500 communities nationwide are now sharing messages, posting alerts and sending invitations by phone using the application Nextdoor. The ever-growing project partly owes its success to Tunbridge Wells-based video content agency Digitom, who have produced a series of films for it. The short videos, created as part of a partnership, show how the app can
enhance communication within small communities, including one in the Kent village Pluckley. Nextdoor UK Country Manager Nick Lisher said: “The films Digitom delivered captured our brief perfectly, and we will almost certainly produce more as Nextdoor continues to grow.” Tom Chown, Digitom’s founder and Creative Director, added: “Branded content is a great way of engaging with your audience. “Everybody’s got a story to tell, and video is a strong medium to gather and share it.”
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MP’s urgent call to stop motorway gridlock BREXIT border control changes are likely to bring Kent road disruption from day one, according to a senior MP. Yvette Cooper, Chairman of the Commons Home Affairs Committee, warned that contingency planning is urgently needed to avoid miles of gridlock. The Labour MP told Sky News last week: “We cannot afford to see a return to that kind of Operation Stack, where we had long, long queues.”
Call for youth support EMPLOYERS are being encouraged by Kent County Council to help young people into work. County Hall’s Made in Kent apprentice programme aims to give 1,000 people aged 16 to 24 the opportunity to meet employers in a mock interview setting. But while 3,700 have applied, employers have only offered a combined 1,287 places, which has led the authority to call on firms to provide more chances. To find out more, visit www.apprenticekent.co.uk
Award-winning women TECH communications firm GingerMay PR won two gold prizes at the Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Tunbridge Wells-based agency picked up Fastest Growing Company of the Year and Women-Run Company of the Year on November 17 at the ceremony in New York – where they have an office.
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Community News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Nourish is five years old but it still needs your support this Christmas NOURISH Community Foodbank is marking its fifth anniversary by launching a repeat of last year’s highly successful Reverse Advent calendar campaign. Instead of opening a little door for your daily chocolate treat, Nourish is asking residents to put an essential food item into a box every day up to Christmas. “We ran this last year for the first time to help us meet the Christmas demand and ensure plentiful stocks for the New Year,” said Nourish Co-Chair Olga Johnson.
Amazed “We were amazed and delighted at how people in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and the surrounding areas took the idea to heart. “We received nine tonnes of essential foodbag items in December, and it would be fantastic if we could celebrate our anniversary with even more food and financial donations this year.” Royal Victoria Place shopping centre will again be supporting the Nourish campaign and has donated a pop-up shop in Ely Court to raise awareness of the cause every Saturday in December. The shop will be open each afternoon from December 20-22 to allow supporters to drop off their completed calendars. These can also be donated at the Big Yellow Self Storage on Longfield Road. As an alternative, a £3 donation is enough to buy
someone in need a foodbag meal over the Christmas period. “When we started Nourish in November 2012, we knew people were going hungry, we just didn’t know how great the need was,” added Mrs Johnson. “During that time, it’s been a constant challenge to meet the growing demand of people going hungry. In total, we’ve provided food to more than 12,200 people. That’s almost 110,000 meals.” Nourish is asking members of the public, schools, churches and businesses to get involved in the innovative scheme. The foodbank has created a wishlist of the most needed items, which include Christmas treats, tinned potatoes, instant mash, dried noodles, long-life milk, coffee, small toiletries and household items. Supporters are being encouraged to share their calendars on social media using the hashtags #NourishFoodbank and #OurTownCares
THE FOOD OF LOVE (L-R) Jon Purvis, Sophia Wallace and Elliott Emanuel
It’s not over ’til… the cast of My Fair Lady slims down FOUR members of the Tunbridge Wells Operatic and Dramatic Society [TWODS] lost nine stone between them ahead of their recent production of My Fair Lady. Jon Purvis, Elliott Emanuel, Sophia Wallace and Alastair Collie, who are members of St Mark’s Primary School Slimming World Group, performed the famous musical at the Assembly Hall last week. Cast member Jon Purvis said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the Slimming World experience,
having reached my three-stone target weight a few weeks ago. “What amazed me was how easy the plan was, and how much I could eat – all my favourite meals, including takeaways. “With so much variety in the plan, and with no foods barred, eating out is also very easy. And the group support you get from attending is second to none. He added: “As well as the health benefits I have experienced from losing weight, including more energy and general
fitness, my confidence has grown and it has made me an all-round better performer and given me more ability to perform dance routines and a greater variety of roles.” St Mark’s Primary School Slimming World Group meets every Wednesday at 7.30pm. For details, telephone Susie on 07717 177892. A new Group will be opening on Tuesday, January 2 at 9.30am in St Peter’s Church Hall in Bayhall Road.
Community News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
CARERS from two companies in Tunbridge Wells were recognised at the annual Kent Care Awards at Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone. They were chosen from among more than 200 nominations countywide. Regal Care’s Shelley Wesley was given the Dementia Care Award in recognition of her dedication and enthusiasm supporting residents with dementia in an understanding, caring environment. Greensleeves Care chefs Michelle Bryant and Amanda Hodge received
West Malling enjoys biggest ever Christmas celebration merry-go-round and food and drink. On a huge stage, comperes Double Trouble introduced performances by boy band Sakyi4, female duet Two Tone, Leah Sullivan and local dance schools. A Balloon Race was organised by The Post Office, which also won the award for Best Large Window Dressing for owner
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Tunbridge Wells carers win countywide awards
NIGHT TO REMEMBER Lighting up the packed High Street
THE town of West Malling celebrated its largest ever Christmas Lights Festival this year in association with the local Chamber of Commerce. From 11am to 5.30pm, a record crowd of several hundred filled the High Street and Swan Street enjoying reindeer, Santa’s grotto, an ice rink, a bungee trampoline, a
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Harj Handa. Susanne Dackombe’s shop, Chocolate Umbrella, scooped the Small Window award. The day ended with Penny Nicholls of Age Concern and the Mayor of Tonbridge & Malling, Roger Dalton, switching on the Christmas lights at 5pm, together with character Olaf from the film Frozen.
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY Shelley Wesley (right) with Anne Tidmarsh of Kent County Council
the Care Nutrition Award in recognition of the delicious and well-balanced menus and treats they create with nutrition and individual preferences in mind. Greensleeves Manager Karen Cooper said: “We’re delighted with the award. Michelle and Amanda take nutrition very seriously, but the real joy for them is in providing wholesome meals that they know the residents will enjoy.” Gladiola Apiado, Manager for Regal Care, commented: “The award is much deserved. “Shelley is a very caring lady with huge enthusiasm. “She is totally dedicated to her work and always goes the extra mile to support all of her residents.”
DISH UP A TREAT: Michelle Bryant
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People
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Society’s best-kept secret – my role as appropriate adult Tonbridge bookseller Chris Barmby has been rewarded for his voluntary work looking after 1,700 young people in police custody. He talked to Andy Tong CHRIS BARMBY, a 71-year-old antiquarian bookseller, has been awarded an MBE for ‘services to policing and the community in Tonbridge’. Mr Barmby worked as an appropriate adult on behalf of the Young Lives Foundation [YLF] in Tonbridge police station’s custody unit from 2003 to 2015. As an unpaid volunteer, he took part in more than 1,700 police interviews of juveniles and those who were vulnerable because of mental health issues. He received his medal at Buckingham Palace on November 21, with his wife Angela and daughters Lee and Vanessa.
‘You can’t talk down to them. A lot of adults have an attitude that you should be punished. You’re not there to judge, but to see if they are being treated fairly’ “It was an amazing experience,” said Mr Barmby. “My family was in the front row about eight feet away so they could hear what was going on. “Prince William gave me the award. It was really surprising because the citation does not mention appropriate adults but he was fully aware of my role.It was an honour to be there, and a wonderful experience.” Unlike the prince, most people have no idea about the work of volunteers like Mr Barmby. “We are the best-kept secret,” he said. All juveniles and vulnerable adults who have been arrested must have an appropriate adult with them while the police read them their rights, carry out identification, conduct interviews and issue charges. If no member of the family is present, a volunteer fills the role. Often parents and guardians are unable to attend because of other commitments, or they may be too closely involved with the circumstances of the arrest. Mr Barmby said: “What is important for everyone who has a member of their family arrested is that there is someone with them who is independent of the police, looking after them, supporting them and protecting their interests, so that they are not just chucked in a cell and ignored.” He liked to be proactive in offering that
support: “I always had a policy that I would go down to the cell with the detention officer and shake the young person’s hand and tell them I’m not working with the police or part of the system. “Very rarely, there were some who were very difficult to communicate with,” he admitted. “But usually they are fine when they are away from their friends. “They don’t plan to do silly things, but when they are out with their mates they might do. Some get caught, some don’t. They’re not necessarily bad, they’re just unlucky.” Mr Barmby is believed to have attended more custody interviews in a single police station than any other appropriate adult. Chris Bath, Chief Executive of the National Appropriate Adult Network, reckons he is the first appropriate adult to receive an honour of any type in the UK. And yet, as Mr Barmby pointed out, no one in the town knows what he did – even though it’s such a crucial element of the criminal justice system. “You are working on behalf of the community, but they don’t know about you,” he said. “The only people who know of this important role are the police, solicitors and the detainees.” Many of the young men and women he helped through those years remember what he did for them, and they come up to him in the street to say hello and thank him and tell him their news. “I saw one just the other day at Haysden Lake, and he told me: ‘Mr Barmby, I’ve got a job now’.” His relationship with the police is ‘extremely good’, and he has received three Kent Police Certificates of Merit and was named volunteer of the year by the Kent Police Authority in 2012. In 2008, he was recognised by the Kent Criminal Justice Board for his ‘outstanding contribution to working with offenders’, and as part of the YLF team he also received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Tonbridge Police Station, which covers West Kent from Snodland to Edenbridge to Hawkhurst, would be able to call on him at any time of day apart from after 10pm – JUST REWARDS Chris Barmby with his citation from the palace
HOW TO LOOK AFTER A CHILD WHO’S BEEN ARRESTED Under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act [PACE] all juveniles and vulnerable adults arrested by the police must have an appropriate adult with them while their three rights are read to them. These are the right to inform a parent or guardian, to have a solicitor free of charge and to be protected by the code of practice. Then come identification procedures such as fingerprinting, searches and intimate searches. Next, the appropriate adult would go into consultation with the detainees, with no police or lawyers present, and talk about their background and the reasons for the arrest, explain the police caution and that they don’t have say anything and go through the procedure in the interview room and afterwards. “If they made any admissions in the consultation, I wouldn’t pass them on unless I was concerned about their mental health,” said Mr Barmby, who went on to explain his role in the interview room.
FORCE FOR GOOD Mr Barmby and his MBE with Kent Police Chief Inspector Dave Pate “The appropriate adult is there to observe whether the interview is taking place properly and fairly and to facilitate communication. “If I think there is something the youngster has not understood, I would jump in. I don’t have any legal training, that’s someone else’s job. You are taking the role of the parent – but one who knows what’s happening.” Then the tapes are sealed and the appropriate adult waits with the detainee to hear about the charges and understand the bail conditions.
‘the young people have to be allowed their sleep by law’. Mr Barmby would ‘have to drop everything and go down to the station… They used to joke that I almost lived there’. The day after he received his award, Mr Barmby met Kent Police District Commander Chief Inspector Dave Pate and Young Lives Foundation Chief Executive Stephen Gray. Chief Inspector Pate said: “Chris Barmby has provided a tremendous contribution over many years, not only to Kent Police, but to countless young people and his local community. Appropriate adults perform a vital role. “The likes of Mr Barmby sacrifice their own free time to attend police stations at all hours, and they remain a key component in ensuring the smooth running of the custody function.” The most important quality to possess as an appropriate adult is an ability to understand a person’s feelings and share them, Mr Barmby said. “You have to be non-judgemental, but empathy is the most important thing.” He added: “You can’t talk down to them. A lot of adults have an attitude that they should be punished. You’re not there to judge, but to see if they are being treated fairly.” Mr Barmby spent ten years in the Navy and served on the Independent Monitoring Board for two prisons in the Isle of Sheppey Cluster before taking up his voluntary role. He continues to sell books on antiques and collectables – he used to have a shop, C & A J Barmby, on Lavender Hill in Tonbridge. And he has already had one encounter with royalty, as a yachtsman on the one of the two escort boats which accompanied HMS Britannia and the royal barge on the Thames for The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. If you would like to volunteer for the Young Lives Foundation, call 01622 693459 or email: enquiries@ylf.org.uk
County News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Second Thames crossing will boost local economy VISION How The Lower Thames Crossing could look
‘We must invest in our roads, rail and airports in order to help attract new businesses and jobs’
By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BUILDING a second tunnel link between Kent and Essex would create 6,000 jobs, according to Highways England. The agency is pushing for the proposed Lower Thames Crossing to connect Gravesend and Tilbury to relieve pressure on the M25 Dartford junction further north.
Decision Plans for the project, which are expected to cost £4.4billion to £6.2billion, are progressing with explanatory briefings, which will continue into next year before the government will make a final decision. Tim Jones, Highways England Project Director for the Lower Thames Crossing, said: “We are working to meet the crossing’s potential to unlock economic growth, provide more jobs and homes, and improve access to leisure and retail opportunities. “The Lower Thames Crossing offers a once-ina-generation opportunity to significantly improve
connections between Essex and Kent.” Highways England has stated the project will bring an £8billion boost to the region. It is chiefly designed to provide an alternative to the busy Dartford Crossing, which handles 55 million journeys a year – six million more than it was designed for. The latest plans were revealed in a meeting organised by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership [SELEP] last week. These showed how the link to the tunnel will connect to Junctions 29 and 30 of the M25, and also the south Essex A13, which has been redesigned to aid traffic flow. A proposed junction with the A226 has been removed following feedback from residents and businesses that it could increase traffic in Gravesend. Christian Brodie, Chairman of SELEP, added: “We must invest in our roads, rail and airports in order to help attract new businesses and jobs, and create an environment that stimulates economic growth. “If we are to improve our productivity, we must invest in our people, our places and our products, and it is imperative we bring forward investment in our infrastructure.”
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Churchill painting sells
Assistance card available
AN ARTWORK painted by Sir Winston Churchill in his Chartwell home sold last week for £357,000. The wartime Prime Minister’s final piece before his death shows the goldfish pool in the house near Sevenoaks. It was finished in 1962, three years before he died. London auctioneer Sotheby’s estimated the work would sell for £50,000, but the hammer went down at £290,000. When fees and taxes were added, it came to £357,000.
PATIENTS who need extra help attending medical appointments can benefit from new NHS Healthwatch Help Cards. Under the scheme, which was unrolled across Kent earlier this month, anyone can take a card from a health centre and present it upon arriving for an appointment. This allows patients to discreetly request a confidential conversation, or ask for additional help in filling in forms.
Cuts criticised by mums
Building plans rejected
COUNTY HALL is proposing to cut a breastfeeding support service from January. Consultations have started into plans which would see Kent County Council [KCC] make a £404,000 a year saving by scrapping 17 clinics and 23 peer support groups. Mums have criticised the move online. However, everyone has been invited to have their say by visiting the consultation page on KCC’s website. For more information, visit: www.consultations.kent.gov.uk
PROPOSALS to build a towering 11-storey apartment block in Swanley have been rejected. Sevenoaks District Council voted unanimously against plans to build 303 residential and multiple retail units in a meeting on November 16. Members of the Planning Committee were displeased at the size of the proposed building, which would have made it the largest in the district. Developer U&I previously withdrew plans for a 13 storey skyscraper in the town due to fears it was also likely be rejected by the authority.
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National News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Harry and Meghan to marry at Windsor Castle next May HAPPY COUPLE Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
THE wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be held in St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle next May, Kensington Palace has announced. The couple announced on Monday they will get married after a 16-month long-distance relationship. The American actress, a protestant who went to a catholic high school, will be baptised and confirmed, and intends to become a British citizen. The palace confirmed that the Queen will attend the ceremony. It added that the royal family will pay for the wedding including the
church service, music, flowers and reception. Harry’s communication’s secretary Jason Knauf said Windsor was a ‘very special place’ for Harry, and that he and Ms Markle had been spending time there together. He added that the couple, who were grateful for the warm wishes from the public, would be putting their own stamp on the wedding day. “They will be making sure it reflects who they are as a couple,” he said. The exact date of the wedding will be revealed at a later stage. Mr Knauf said Harry and Ms Markle ‘want the public to feel part of their day’ and are looking at ways to achieve that. The Duchess of Cambridge has said she was ‘absolutely thrilled’ to learn of her brother-in-law’s engagement. Kate, who is pregnant with her third child, said: “William and I are absolutely thrilled. It’s such exciting news. It’s a really happy time for any couple and we wish them all the best and hope they enjoy this happy moment.” Kensington Palace also revealed that Harry and Ms Markle will carry out their first official engagement together in Nottingham on Friday. They will visit the Nottingham Con-
ROYAL TREATMENT: St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle
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Corrie’s Todd admits two counts of sexual assault FORMER Coronation Street star Bruno Langley has been given a 12-month community order after he admitted two counts of sexual assault. Langley, 34, was drunk in the Band on the Wall music venue in Manchester on October 1 when he touched the two women, Manchester Magistrates’ Court was told. He was not charged for two other assaults. The actor left the ITV soap in the wake of the allegations after playing Todd Grimshaw for more than a decade.
Viagra sold over counter MEN seeking Viagra will no longer need to get a prescription from their GP after health officials reclassified a drug. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency announced that it is reclassifying Viagra Connect tablets so they can be sold over the counter in pharmacies. This means that men over the age of 18 will be able to obtain Viagra Connect, containing sildenafil 50mg, from their pharmacist.
Cocaine dropped in Kent temporary gallery, which is hosting a Terrence Higgins Trust World Aids Day charity fair. There will also be a walkabout by the couple, and they will meet headteachers taking part in the Full Effect programme, a project supported by
the Royal Foundation to improve the opportunities for young people and reduce violence in a part of the city. Ms Markle is to become the fourth patron of the Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.
A BELGIAN pilot has been jailed for 14 years for dropping more than £2.5million of cocaine into the Kent countryside from his light aircraft. Retired army serviceman Rudi Sels, 65, from Balen, near Antwerp, admitted conspiracy to smuggle 31kg of the class A drug into Britain following his extradition.
National News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
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Kate’s uncle is No parking spaces for new Christmas fund fined £5,000 for London homes and offices for child victims of Grenfell fire assaulting wife PARKING spaces will be banned from new homes and office blocks in parts of London under a plan to reduce car use, Sadiq Khan has announced. The mayor said he wants to reduce road congestion and air pollution with his Transport Strategy.
Toxicity
DRUNKEN RAGE Gary Goldsmith THE Duchess of Cambridge’s uncle has been fined £5,000 and given a community order for assaulting his wife in a drunken argument in which she accused him of taking drugs. Gary Goldsmith knocked Julie-Ann Goldsmith to the ground outside their home in Wimpole Street, central London, at around 1.20am on October 13.
Nasty The 52-year-old was sentenced at Westminster Magistrates’ Court after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing to one count of assault by beating. Sentencing him, Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot described him as being a ‘nasty drunk’, adding: “Your wife accused you of taking drugs and leaving her alone for most of the evening. You called her a nothing and whore.” Goldsmith was sentenced to a 12-month community order with 20 sessions of a rehabilitation order requirement.
Under the scheme, car parking spaces will not be allowed as part of residential developments which have the best public transport links, while new offices in the centre of the capital will not be able to include commuter or visitor parking. Spaces for disabled people to park will still be allowed and cycle parking will be increased
in several areas, including outside shops and student accommodation. The measures, which will be subject to a public consultation, represent the latest in a series of efforts to boost air quality. A £10 toxicity T-Charge was introduced last month in central London for vehicles which do not meet the Euro 4 emissions standard, which is generally those registered before 2006. Mr Khan said he is working with Transport for London and local boroughs to create a city-wide network of cycle routes. He wants 70 per cent of Londoners to be living within 400 metres of a high-quality, safe cycle route by 2041. LEAD ROLE: Scientists at the University of Bath are collecting motion capture or footage of movement by dogs at Bath Cats and Dogs Home in order to make animations of animals more realistic. The head of the studio, Martin Parsons, said: “At the moment, actors have to walk around on all fours, and the computer software changes them into an animal.”
VOLUNTEERS are planning to bring Christmas cheer and a visit from Santa Claus to children affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. The organisers are hoping to ensure every child will receive a Christmas present, and are planning a festive party for survivors and the wider community. At least 18 children died in the fire on June 14. A Go Fund Me page, set up on Monday morning by Stevan Racz, who lost his uncle Denis Murphy in the fire, has raised almost £3,000 in donations. He said that he was passionate about the idea because it is what his uncle ‘would have been doing if he survived’. The idea started with a small plan to provide some gifts for a local mother and daughters group. Organisers are appealing for decorations, wrapping paper and presents for children and teenagers. The public can either donate to the site or send gifts directly to a distribution point set up by volunteers. The link to donate is www.gofundme.com/ christmas-for-grenfell
Bath chief quits early The UK’s highest paid vice-chancellor is retiring from the University of Bath amid criticism over the institution’s handling of senior staff pay. Dame Glynis Breakwell, who earned £451,000 in 2015-16, including benefits, is stepping down from the position in August after 17 years. Last week Dame Glynis narrowly survived a vote of no confidence in a secret ballot of the university’s senate, which oversees the institution’s academic work.
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National Business News
John Lewis enjoys biggest trading day to stop the rot JOHN LEWIS logged its biggest trading day on record as Black Friday sales helped make up for a few weeks of ‘challenging sales’. The retailer said that it booked a 7.2 per cent rise on year-on-year sales in the week to November 25 to £214.3million, having seen 705 items ordered per minute online at their peak. “Marked by Black Friday and price matching through our Never Knowingly Undersold policy, it was the biggest ever week and Black Friday was the biggest ever day in John Lewis’s trading history,” operations director Dino Rocos said. It came ‘after a few weeks of challenging sales in the run up to Black Friday’, Mr Rocos added, echoing fellow retailers who flagged concerns over a softening UK consumer market as households deal with inflation that surged to 3 per cent. But the sales event saw John Lewis’ beauty division log the company’s biggest sales jump, up 27.5 per cent for the week, while mobile and wearable technology helped drive a 9.7 per cent jump in electricals.
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Thames Water to reduce bill hikes by £40million THAMES WATER has pledged to reduce household bill increases next year by £40million after admitting it ‘let down’ its customers. Britain’s biggest water company, which has 15 million customers, said it was unlikely to meet its target for leaks once again this financial year and promised to return a pot of £40million built up from fines since 2015 to households. It said the move will effectively halve the expected annual rise in the tariff next year, meaning bills will be £8 less on average. Outgoing chairman Sir Peter Mason said: “Our leakage performance over the last year has let down our customers and stakeholders and we’re working hard to improve our performance.” It comes as the group posted half-year results showing underlying earnings slumped 6.7 per cent to £281.5million. Thames Water – which serves a quarter of the UK population – said it will scrap dividend payments this year to its owners, which includes Canadian and UK pension funds, as well as the sovereign wealth funds of China, Abu Dhabi and Kuwait.
UK banks are handed a clean bill of health BRITAIN’S biggest lenders could withstand a ‘disorderly’ Brexit and do not need to bolster their financial strength after this year’s health check of the sector for the first time since it was launched in 2014, according to the Bank of England. But Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) have emerged as the weakest of the seven lenders tested and only passed thanks to action they have taken over the year to bolster their financial strength.
Ticketing crackdown The moves comes after a tough 2017 for the group after it was fined a record £20million fine in March for allowing 1.4 billion litres of raw sewage into the River Thames between 2012 to 2014. It was then hit with an £8.6million regulatory penalty for missed leak targets and also came under pressure over excessive pay for top bosses.
Think tank warns of more job losses BRITAIN should brace itself for higher unemployment as economic growth weakens, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The think tank said this will be caused by Brexit uncertainty, falling consumer confidence and a collapse in investment. It said: “Economic activity is set to grow at just
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above 1 per cent in 2018-19, with the negative impact of uncertainty about the final outcome of Brexit negotiations being partly countered by an assumed agreement on a transition period after March 2019. “This pace of growth will not be sufficient to prevent a moderate rise in the unemployment rate... Job creation is losing momentum.”
THE competition watchdog is to take action against secondary ticketing websites suspected of breaking consumer law. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said it had identified ‘widespread concerns’ about the information consumers are given when using the sites and gathered evidence that it considered to be breaches of the law after a year-long investigation. It was raising its concerns with ‘a number’ of websites, requiring them to take action.
Ocado announce deal ONLINE grocer Ocado has announced a long-awaited international partnership, signing a deal with French supermarket giant Groupe Casino. The deal will see Ocado construct an automated warehouse that will serve the Greater Paris area, as well as the Normandie and Hauts de France regions.
World News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
North Korea fires another missile NORTH KOREA launched a ballistic missile yesterday [November 28] from an area north of Pyongyang. The Yonhap news agency reported South Korea’s joint chiefs of staff saying that it and
US authorities are analysing the trajectory. A US official also said a launch had taken place. The launch is the first to be fired by the regime since September 15 when it launched an intermediate ballistic missile.
White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a tweet that Presiden Trump ‘was briefed, while missile was still in the air, on the situation in North Korea’. He was meeting with Senate Republicans at the time.
DIGNITY GUARANTEED Pope Francis with Aung San Suu Kyi
Pope defends ethnic rights after meeting with Suu Kyi POPE FRANCIS has said Burma’s future depends on respecting the rights of each ethnic group, an indirect show of support for Rohingya Muslims, but disappointed human rights activists by failing to use the word ‘Rohingya’. The Pope also did not mention a recent military crackdown on the Rohingya – described by the UN as ‘ethnic cleansing’ – as he delivered a speech to Burma’s civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. But he lamented how Burma’s people have suffered ‘and continue to suffer from civil conflict
and hostilities’, and insisted that everyone who calls Burma home deserves to have their basic human rights and dignity guaranteed. In August, the army began what it called ‘clearance operations’ in Rakhine state following an attack on police posts by Rohingya insurgents. The violence has forced more than 620,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh. Francis expressed support for Ms Suu Kyi’s efforts to bring about reconciliation among different groups after decades of military dictatorship.
Ireland’s deputy PM steps down THE Irish deputy prime minister Frances Fitzgerald has resigned in order to avoid a snap election over her involvement in a whistleblower scandal. Mrs Fitzgerald became embroiled in a furore over the handling of Sergeant Maurice McCabe after questions were asked over a month ago about who knew what and when about an aggressive strategy uised by lawyers for the then Garda
commissioner Noirin O’Sullivan against the whistleblower. She initially said she had forgotten an email which notified her of the approach. Subsequently it emerged she had received at least three emails on the issue in 2015. She was told not to intervene. Mrs Fitzgerald initially insisted she had done nothing wrong. But she resigned with the scandal threatening to bring
down the minority Government as the opposition party Fianna Fail insisted it would not row back on its no confidence motion, breaking a key pledge in the confidence and supply deal that has kept Fine Gael in power for the last 18 months. Her departure salvaged the Government as next month’s Brexit negotiations reach make-or-break point on the question of the Irish border.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Sanchez and Ozil will stay to end of season
Ball and Tipuric out of South Africa Test
ARSENE WENGER says his star players Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil will remain at Arsenal after the January transfer window ‘unless something unbelievable happens’. The contracts of both players expire at the end of the season and both are believed to want to leave the club, which will have to let them go on a free transfer in the summer. Asked if his gut feeling is they will stay, Wenger replied: ‘Yes, of course.’
LOCK Jake Ball and flanker Justin Tipuric have been ruled out of Wales’ final autumn Test against South Africa on Saturday. Ball requires shoulder surgery after he was forced off in the defeat last Saturday by New Zealand while Lions forward Tipuric has a thigh injury. Wales will also be without centre Jamie Roberts, who has returned to Harlequins after allegedly being threatened with disciplinary action if he did not return to the Stoop.
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Letters
Wednesday November 29 | 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
WHAT A DUMP North Farm Waste Recycling Centre is a busy site
We already pay bin tax to ensure we have a healthy community I was amazed to read in the Times [November 15] that the collection of my garden waste is ‘currently free’. Have I been labouring under a delusion? I thought I was already paying for this service as part of my council tax. Like NHS services, this service is ‘free’ only at the point of access. The proposed plan to charge £30 a year for a service I am already paying for is just raising council tax by stealth. It is a small increase to those who are well
paid – councillors, for example – but not for those living on the state pension or low wages. Yet they have to pay the same as a homeowner with a large garden. The obvious choice is not to pay for the brown bin. After all, waste can go in the household bin and from there into landfill space, can’t it? Except we as a nation are overusing landfill. Garden waste can, of course, be taken to the dump by car (if you have one), but that raises the issues of adding to the numbers of cars visiting the already busy dump, and the extra journeys creating more pollution. Surely these are some of the reasons why we have, over the years, asked the council to include paper, plastic and (hopefully) glass recycling collections? The bin collections, for which we already pay, provide a vital service to the health and safety of the community. A Robertson, Southborough
Forward thinking on Complex
Hats off to Tom for support
Let us believe that the proposed charge for garden waste of £30 per year is justified as an adjunct to efficiency and money-raising at a time when all local politicians and government are looking to stealthily raise finance. Paying less than £1 per week is no hardship, but the Civic Complex development is a black hole of expenditure that should not be hung around the neck of future council taxpayers and local businesses. Why is money of such colossal sums being considered for new council offices when clever redesign is possible? Is the new proposed council office provision necessary because the existing offices are not fit for purpose? Is there not the room for innovative council thinking, high specification computers, healthsupporting/energy-saving modern lighting/ heating, etc, aiming for greater efficiency and improved working conditions? Ex-EastEnders actress Kim Freeman spoke of ‘groups being desperate to perform in Tunbridge Wells’ but being constrained by the lack of modern facilities at the existing theatre [November 15]. This apparent stumbling block could also be addressed by the brilliant modern architects that abound in this country. Should the theatre lose some seating capacity in order to enlarge the stage and lift up the backdrops? What is the problem? Ticket prices would be on the rise as ‘classy’ productions are attracted. David Bedford, Via email
It’s highly encouraging that Tom Tugendhat, MP for Tonbridge, is valiantly opposing a damaging hard Brexit and against setting the UK’s departure date from the EU in stone. His vocal support for Southern Salads on the sad loss of this local workforce was also most welcome. It’s a pity, therefore, that other local Remain MPs, such as Michael Fallon in Sevenoaks and Greg Clark in Tunbridge Wells, are not so vocal, particularly as we firmly voted for Remain in the Wells. Dr Alan Bullion Tunbridge Wells
What about social care bills? I would like to congratulate Green Councillor Martin Whybrow for exposing the hypocrisy of Kent County Council’s pension investments. The response from KCC is a shameful attempt to absolve themselves of responsibility. Would Alcoholics Anonymous invest their pension pot in a brewing firm, or Greenpeace invest theirs in coal? Of course not. County Hall should be leading the way in encouraging healthy and active lifestyles. Prevention is better than cure, especially considering they are already staring down the barrel of a deficit and an almighty social care bill. Some joined-up thinking, please. Peter Lidstone Lib Dem Councillor for St John’s
Teaching in church schools I am saddened by the way in which certain schools in Tunbridge Wells, at the behest of a minority of parents, have reacted to the Crossteach organisation. I understand that one of the issues is that this minority disagrees with the organisation’s stance on abortion, even though it is mainstream for Christians to be opposed to abortion. What is even more disturbing is that this minority of parents has reacted against the group teaching the Bible at St John’s primary school. If these parents objected to Christian teaching in a church school, then why did they send their children to a church school? John Humphrey Via email
All this noise beggars belief The modern world is full of noise, much of it wholly unnecessary. So what, I hear you say? Or I would, if I could hear anything at all. For those of us who are lucky enough to live in the beautiful High Weald countryside, we have to put up with seven planes in the sky at once going into Gatwick over the summer months. But at least sometimes we get to hop on one of them. The new sound of summer is the sound of the strimmer. People cannot get enough of these contraptions, destroying wild habitats by the score and cursing at fiddly bits of twine. But the worst of all, the noisiest, the most pointless indication of modern consumer life, has to be the dreaded leaf blower. On a clear, gorgeous autumn day tinted by a palette of indescribable colours, you can hear the horrid reverse hoovers a mile away. And what happens? Next day all the leaves come drifting back again, laughing their silent little laughs. Ready to be whisked off to nowheresville once more. Enough of this ludicrous fad! At the very least, all users of leaf blowers should be banned from wearing ear defenders. At worst, they should be blown away themselves. Emily Powers Fordcombe
We are on the road to ruin So it’s Sunday afternoon. Yet again chaos on the A26 at Southborough; it took 20 minutes to get from the traffic lights at Yew Tree Road to Park Road due to roadworks. There has been no warning of the works again. This is damaging to the local environment and economy for the third time in as many weeks. Seems to me there is no joined-up thinking or planning by Kent County Council Highways and no one taking any responsibility for the situation. In my opinion, KCC Highways is ‘not fit for purpose’. The long-suffering people of Southborough have had enough and it’s time for some action. Roger K Walsh, Southborough
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
APOLOGIES to readers for the picture that appears this week in this column. But Calverley has decided to ‘publish and be damned’ as a warning to those who might be tempted to appear on one of those ghastly TV reality shows. In this case, it’s I’m a Celebrity, featuring my old colleague Stanley Johnson. Readers will recall Calverley raising the matter a few weeks ago when talking about Stanley being ‘famous’ because of his better-known son – Boris. Not being ageist, but 77 year olds should be wary about stripping off on national TV for a shower in the jungle. Mind you, if you’re being paid something between £25,00 and SOAP £250,000, going STAR naked might have Stanley some value. Thinking about it, RED pass the soap CENSO please… SOCIAL MEDIA obviously has its place in today’s society – just not sure where. One unkind soul has described it as ‘somewhere that’s swamped with attention seekers and the permanently angry’. Be that as it may, social media can certainly become addictive. Last week figures were revealed from a test where a specialist app was used to track phone activity. Total screen time for a young girl came out at 17 hours a week, with a single professional hitting 45 hours, a teenager 25 and a silver surfer 17 hours. How scary is that? CHRISTMAS is coming and staff are looking forward to those special little gifts from the boss. More interest than you would expect, though, from people at a certain furniture emporium. Last year, the Big Man wished them season’s greetings and then placed a tin of biscuits in the staff room. This was the same boss who invited staff for Christmas lunch and then demanded they split the bill. MEN are from Mars and Women are from Venus. Or is it the other way round? Either way, there’s often a disconnect. Take this neighbour of Calverley’s. His wife bounced into the lounge and announced she was going on a crash diet. His response was: “No need to go on a diet, I’ve got used to you being fat.” He was well intentioned, but is now sleeping in the spare room. Chin Chin, readers
Education News
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
EDUCATION Times WITH THE
All the world really is a stage for these budding student actors… Last week Trinity Theatre hosted their first Shakespeare Schools Festival, inviting a number of local pupils to take part. Here its organiser, Michael King, tells Eileen Leahy all about it TRADITIONALLY, when it comes to learning Shakespeare at school it’s fair to say that the majority of pupils find the archaic language and unfamiliar scenarios a bit of a struggle. Then factor in the issue of the Bard’s plays being read in the stuffy confines of a school classroom instead of being performed on a stage, which means that for most of Shakespeare’s wise words, dramatic deftness and frequent comedic value can often be totally lost.
Brainchild What a good idea, therefore, to encourage school pupils to become far more engaged with Shakespeare’s great works by getting them into a theatre performing some of the plays
themselves. This is exactly what happened last week at Trinity Theatre, when three local schools took part in the Shakespeare Schools Festival for the first time. The idea to do so was the brainchild of the Head of Drama at St Gregory’s Catholic School, Michael King. So how did it come about? “This was a first for St Gregory’s, a first for Trinity Theatre and a first for Tunbridge Wells,” said Mr King, who realised how the festival could benefit students, not just in terms of understanding Shakespeare more, but also in improving their acting, directing and photograpic skills too. The image here was taken by Year 13 photography students. Mr King said he found out about the Shakespeare Schools Festival at
SCENE STEALERS St Gregory’s students at Trinity last week a networking event, and promptly went to Trinity to propose putting something on there. It took a year from conception to curtain-up, and Mr King couldn’t be
happier with the success of the event. “The festival offered pupils from several local schools the once-in-alifetime opportunity to dip their toes into the real world and perform live
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in a professional theatre environment to an appreciative audience.” The two other schools who took part were Benenden School for Girls, who performed Othello, and St Barnabas’ primary, who staged Macbeth. Mr King told the Times he chose Romeo and Juliet as it’s ‘one of the most famous love stories ever told’. “The festival also included a day of inspirational workshops and exercises for the teachers involved,” continued Mr King. “This not only gave me some valuable teaching tools, but also rekindled my fire in terms of artistic process and creativity. “The play’s legacy is a timely reminder that love can be born from hate. Though, unless the inherent animosity that seems to stem from being one or the other is addressed, there will always be a senseless waste of life. It was true 400 years ago and it still holds true today.” He went on to say that he and his pupils decided to give the play a modern-day twist by dressing the characters in gangster hoodies and bandanas: “This not only helped with keeping production costs to a minimum, but brilliantly highlighted the conflict between the warring Montagues and Capulets. Though a tragedy, Shakespeare gives you moments of mirth as an emotional respite, before plunging you again into the depths of a hatred so deepseated that both sides have forgotten how it arose.” Mr King also said that his students found humour in the text as the characters danced on stage to the soundtrack of some 80s’ classics – including David Bowie’s Let’s Dance and Kenny Loggins’ Footloose. Fight scenes were brought to life by bats, ropes and snooker cues, which Mr King said helped to ‘keep it real and down on the street’. “For me, the most rewarding thing was watching the Year 13 drama students relish the opportunity to direct different scenes and lead the cast. “I was flushed with pride at the previews in school, and was excited at the prospect of really pushing the envelope at Trinity.”
Weekly Comment
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Martin Betts Labour Party local campaign co-ordinator
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Labour Party member Martin Betts lives in Southborough and has long been active in local politics. He retired after a long career in the Civil Service, where his last job at the Department for Work and Pensions was in communications. He qualified at Leicester University in human resources and training and development. The Times also publishes regular opinions from Conservatives and Lib Dems and members of the Green Party
Why Labour can’t support the Civic Complex plans HOW many people across the borough would say that a hugely expensive project to build new council offices, an underground car park and a theatre right in the centre of Tunbridge Wells was the top of their priorities? We think the answer is ‘very few’. Living standards continue to fall. We have a housing crisis where access to genuinely affordable housing is out of reach. Homelessness, poverty and the use of foodbanks is increasing. Many of us face traffic gridlock and dangerous air pollution. Fifteen bus services are about to be cut. Life for many is a struggle. In the absence of a formal test of public opinion, we have surveyed our 780 members. We found 68 per cent of the respondents are opposed to the development, 25 per cent support it, and 7 per cent are neutral. In two informal referendums in the borough, 80 per cent voted to oppose the development with 20 per cent giving it their support. The project finances are a major cause of concern and look risky. The
reported borrowing figure went up from £72million to £77million within weeks. Many public sector projects overrun their budgets and fail to deliver on time. The final cost will certainly be more than £90million.
Opposition Anyone doubting this should look at the recent three-council-managed Southborough Hub project, where an additional £500,000 has already been demanded from Southborough taxpayers for completion of what will be more of a village hall than a promised ‘state of the art theatre’. Annual payments on the 50-year Civic Complex mortgage will be in the region of £2.8million. The council is already gearing up for this – making savings by axing funds to community groups, selling off surplus land, and seeking to impose new charges for collecting garden waste. This is just the start. The independent accountancy body CIPFA has reported
that ‘the new income and charges will not cover the cost of the loan, which will mostly be met from additional savings’. They also say that the paying of the debt ‘leaves limited resource available for other council funded projects and investment’. The council has failed to put up a convincing case that a costly project which is focused solely on Tunbridge Wells town centre, paid for by all of the borough’s council taxpayers, will produce economic and social benefits for everyone in the borough. An ambitious council would work across the borough with local communities to renew towns and villages that feel neglected. It would collaborate with others to invest in housing, new business workspaces, and better public transport and infrastructure. The Town Hall and Assembly Hall might not be up to scratch, but times are difficult. People are living on tight budgets and having to make do. Building costly new civic buildings, with more cuts and charges on the
MEETING DEMAND The proposed new Council Chamber
way, seems an extravagance too far. The council should look again at the less expensive modernisation of the existing buildings, maybe as part of the exciting conversion of the Art Gallery,
Library and Adult Education Centre into a £13million Cultural and Learning Hub. With creativity and flair, these types of renovations can be functional, cost-effective, and attractive.
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Luxury Gift Guide Special
FEATURES
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
THE
ULTIMATE LUXURY GIFT GUIDE
Your 16-pa ge luxur y gift pullout
Make this Christmas the most special one yet courtesy of our exclusive perfect presents… INSIDE
All that glitters Rich pickings from this season’s selection of gorgeous gems Page 27
World of interiors Enhance your home with our illuminating interior ideas Page 28
Treat her like a lady On trend offerings for the fashion focused female Page 30
The last word in luxury Unique treats for the special man in your life Page 58
Season’s eatings We serve up a taste of gourmet gifts galore Page 60 RING THE CHANGES: 17.05cts Tanzanite with 0.84ct or baguette cut diamonds in a handmade platinum setting £21,650. G Collins & Sons, www.gcollinsandsons.com
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FEATURES
Luxury Gift Guide Special
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
HAVE YOURSELF A LUXURIOUS LITTLE CHRISTMAS…
Make frantic festive shopping a thing of the past courtesy of the Times’ annual luxury gift guide which provides you with all the present inspiration you’ll need to spoil your friends and family this year says Eileen Leahy IF YOU’VE been putting off making a start on your festive shopping because you don’t know where on earth to start then help is at hand courtesy of the Times’ sixteen page special gift guide. As well as providing you with plenty of inspiration for sourcing the most luxurious and glamorous of presents, we’ve divided shopping ideas into helpful sections so you can see at a glance the ideal offering for a fussy foodie, globetrotting best friend or TIMELESS ELEGANCE: Grosvenor Rotary Watch Box in Dove Grey, £2,995 available at www.smythson.com
interiors addict. There’s also a wealth of inspiring ideas for finding that special something for those who are traditionally hard to buy for, and also a wonderful selection of glimmering gems if you want to make this Christmas a really special one. The other good news is that these ideas can either be purchased locally or with the click of a button online leaving you to indulge in the more enjoyable aspects of the festive season. So sit back with a glass of something warming and have fun flicking through the next few pages which will help you purchase the most perfect presents for your friends and family.
RAISE A GLASS: Cointreau – The Golden Age, £29.99, exclusive to Selfridges, www.selfridges.co.uk
TOP CHOICE: Women’s Festive Luxe Jumper, £59.95, Joules, www.joules.com
FESTIVE FEASTING: After dinner hamper, £195, Daylesford Organic, www.daylesford.com
Luxury Gift Guide Special
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
FEATURES
FINGER ON FASHION’S PULSE Recycled 9ct gold with a green tourmaline stone, £995, Alice Robinson www.alicerobinson.co.uk
EXQUISITE AND ELEGANT Valiano earrings, £99, Sif Jakobs at Geminera.com
TO THE LETTER: Personal initial, from £85, (chains start from £45) Monica Vinader, www. monicavinader.com
ALL THAT GLITTERS: Tri Colour Lotus Ear Jacket, £7511, www.ananya.com
JEWELLERY Make this Christmas really sparkle by leaving a gleaming gem or two under the tree
CRYSTAL CLEAR: Riva Pod diamond stud earrings, from £250, Monica Vinader, www.monicavinader.com
WATCH OUT: Maurice Lacroix Ladies’ Aikon watch, : £825.00, www.WatchShop.com
RING THE CHANGES 2.14ct Round Blue Sapphire set in 18kt. white gold, microset with 285 diamonds weighing 1.19cts; Stamped M, Martin Katz, £22,000.00, martinkatz.com LISTEN UP: Paula Mendoza gold hoop earrings, £410, www.paulamendoza.com and Fenwick
DIAMOND’S ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND Gold and Diamond 18t Gold Necklace, £1,9000, Mimi Baldwin Fine Jewellery www.mimibaldwin.com
LOVE TOKEN Happy hearts bangle, 18-carat white gold and diamonds, £4,610, Chopard, www.chopard.com
SILVER LININGS Say it with sparkles, Hot Diamonds jewellery, prices start from £35, Micallef Jewellers, www.micallefjewellers.com
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FEATURES
Luxury Gift Guide Special
FESTIVE FLOWER POWER Wildabout Snowflake Wreath Small £80 Medium £130, Large £280, at www.wildabout.co.uk
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
THROW CAUTION TO THE WIND Oyuna, Teva Cashmere Blend Throw Jade Stone, £419, www.oyuna.com
MIRROR IMAGE Wordsworth Metal Mirror £155.00, Sophie Conran, www.sophieconran.com
PICTURE PERFECT: A Million Miles Ben Lowe canvas print, £345, Loaf, www.loaf.com GOLDEN DELIGHT Choose from a variety of designs of these charming Small Strawsilk Art Tealight Holder, £8.25, Zaven’s, www.zavens.co.uk CAFÉ CULTURE: Style your home with these Fusion Ceramic Crafts, £45 per cup and saucer, G&C Gallery, www.gcgallery.co.uk
LIGHT UP Noble Isle Rhubarb Rhubarb Candle, £39, Liberty London or www.nobleisle.com
INTERIORS Spoil your home this festive season with a few stylish updates
FLORAL TRIBUTE: Celebrate the season by spoiling your home with some fabulous flowers, Appleyard, Christmas Hydrangea, £54.99, www.appleyardflowers.com STAR PERFORMER Tara star cushion, £175, Nushka, www.nushka.co.uk
MERCURIAL MAGIC Arteriors Blythe Large Decanters £475, www.arteriorshome.com
PUPPY LOVE: The perfect present for any dog lover, this Ceramic Jack Russell Original Framed Pastel, £745, Fairfax Gallery, www.fairfaxgallery.com
REAL DEAL: Place your star on top of a Non-drop Christmas tree, from £35 (delivered), Pavilion Flowers, www.pavilion-flowers.co.uk
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FEATURES
Luxury Gift Guide Special
TREAT FOR THE SENSES House of Jo Malone set, £136, Fenwick, www.fenwick.co.uk
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
SMOOTH OPERATOR Women’s silk pyjamas (nude), £209, Gingerlily, www.gingerlily.co.uk/ stockists
SLEEP WELL Silk eye mask, £29, Gingerlily, www.gingerlily.co.uk/stockists
STUDS YOU’LL LIKE: RED Valentino black gold studded bag, £540, Fenwick, www.fenwick.com
FOR HER The lady in your life will love this selection of stylish gifts…
LOUNGE LOVER: Josephine Long Silk Robe, £295, Liberty London www.libertylondon.com
SEASONAL SPARKLE: Caroline top and matching skirt, £109 and £129, Fenn Wright Manson, www.fennwrightmanson.com
SCENT OF A WOMAN: Tiffany eau de parfum 50ml from £52, available nationwide
ROLL UP ROLL UP: Double Faced Check Sweater, -£160, Jaeger, www.jaeger.com
BRONZE AGE: By Terry Preciosity Flash Light Dual compact, £48, www.spacenk.com
Luxury Gift Guide Special
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
BOX OF DELIGHTS: Grosvenor Jewellery Box with Travel Tray in Palm Green, £1,295.00 available at www.smythson.com
FEATURES
31
CHECK MATE Skyline Chess Set, £95, available from the British Library shop: www.bl.uk/shop
IT’S A WRAP: Sprung leather and Shearling coat in cream_blue_gold, £,1750, Fenwick, www.fenwick.com
CAPTURE THOSE SPECIAL MOMENTS Hasselblad X1D-50c silver body £6,990.00 ex VAT (not including lens) www.hasselblad.com
BAGS OF STYLE: Flamenco Know camo bag, £1,175, Loewe, www.loewe.com
ULTIMATE LUXURY
When you have to buy that special someone who has everything in life already, consider one of these money can’t buy gifts BAG THIS Alligator Aria, £6,700, Hanuxe, www.hanuxe.com
GO FOR GOLD: Angelo Brooch- Rose Gold Skull and Yellow Gold Antlers, £19,950, Jori, Available at Harvey Nichols and www.jorie.co.uk
TIMELESS ELEGANCE Maurice Lacroix men’s Pontos 18ct gold automatic watch,: £2,050, www.WatchShop.com
DRINK IN A TASTE OF HISTORY The Last Drop 1971 vintage Blended Scotch Whisky, £3,000, www.lastdropdistillers.com
ILLUMINATING IDEA ‘Peace’ candle, £65, Amouage, www.amouage.com
WEST KENT’S ULTIMATE PROPERTY GUIDE – FREE EVERY WEDNESDAY A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BUY, LET OR SELL
The Times is proud to work with:
WITH THE
Available in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge
bracketts
est. 1828
Fit for a queen
Queen Anne-style property on the village green
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PROPERTY
To suit your budget
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Your at-a-glance guide to
UNDER £250,000 SOUTHWOOD ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£215,000 A one-bedroom back-to-back house situated in Rusthall. This property is now available without stamp duty, and also has an open-plan kitchen/ living room and a bathroom. The kitchen has a range of wall and base units and a wood-style worktop
incorporating a breakfast bar area. There is gas-fired heating, and, externally, a garden and a parking space. The garden to the front of the house has room for patio table and chairs, and there is an outside brick cupboard which houses the boiler. CONTACT KMJ Rusthall 01892 515188 www.kmjproperty.co.uk
UNDER £450,000
£375,000
bedrooms, and a bathroom, plus gas-fired central heating. Outside there is an enclosed private garden with seating area and lawn. The property has natural timber internal doors throughout and also has allocated parking.
A Grade II listed property which has been comprehensively refurbished and includes a kitchen/breakfast room with integrated appliances, a sitting room, a cloakroom, two
CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk
THE MIDDLE HOUSE HAWKHURST
OIEO
To suit your budget
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
PROPERTY
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great properties by price range… ARGYLE ROAD SOUTHBOROUGH GUIDE PRICE £500,000
UNDER £600,000 DRAPER MEWS, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
GUIDE PRICE
£550,000 A contemporary four-bedroom end-ofterrace house. The accommodation includes a large open-plan reception room, a modern bathroom and a stylish fitted kitchen. One of the bedrooms includes an en-suite wet room. The house has exposed brick exterior with covered off-street parking and a partially glazed entrance door. There are views of the lawned garden throughout the house. CONTACT Flying Fish Properties 01892 514189 www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk
UNDER £800,000 RIDGELANDS, BIDBOROUGH
OIEO
£686,000
A detached property with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two large reception rooms. Internally, there are several split levels between the living areas. There is permission to extend the kitchen if desired. Outside, the garden has space for al fresco dining as well a further communal garden for all residents to enjoy. There is also a double garage with power and light as well as a garden storage shed. CONTACT Maddisons Residential 01892 514100 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk
UNDER £1MILLION
UNDER £550,000
WHETSTED ROAD, FIVE OAK GREEN
ARGYLE ROAD, SOUTHBOROUGH
GUIDE PRICE
£500,000 A Victorian conversion with three bedrooms, one of which is a master bedroom with en suite. This apartment has a bespoke kitchen, family bathroom, three double bedrooms and a reception room with extensive views. The kitchen/ breakfast room has front aspect double-glazed windows, integrated
£800,000 appliances, laminate flooring and plenty of room for tables and chairs as well as having a white worktop space and a selection of wooden eye and base level units. There is also a garage with off-road parking for two cars. CONTACT Flying Fish Properties 01892 514189 www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk
A house with a self-contained annexe on a plot of approximately 1.3 acres. The accommodation includes a sitting room, drawing room, kitchen, dining room, four bedrooms and a bathroom. Outside is a gravel driveway with off-street parking and a garden. The property can be bought individually or as part of a more extensive estate to include a pair of cottages – one vacant and one let. No chain. CONTACT Wood & Pilcher 01732 351135 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk
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PROPERTY
Architectural Advice
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
DESIGN WITH THE TIMES
John Bullock
Architectural services
Having studied at Edinburgh College of Art and The Royal Academy of The Hague, John Bullock launched John Bullock Design in 2003. With offices in Tunbridge Wells High Street, John has won awards for his work and is committed to delivering the best outcomes for clients www.johnbullockdesign.com
A ‘dream’ home in the best possible taste Knocking down and out-of-date property and building a new one in its place is a wonderful design challenge. Here, a couple who bought an ‘ugly’ 1960s-style house now wish to replace it with a much more attractive and suitable home for their family – and wisely they lived in it for a year first… THE QUESTION: Dear Design with the Times, In 2015, we purchased a beautiful rural site near Horsmonden, we say a ‘site’ because it currently has a large 1960s’ house which is in poor condition and isn’t to our liking. We would like to knock it down and replace it with a new family home. We have taken our time and not rushed into the design of the new house as we were keen to spend some time living on the site and seeing it through its four seasons to understand how it changes during the course of a year. The current house is almost 4,500 sq ft and is a typical 1960s-style building – fairly ugly. The site itself is very private with three acres, and is adjacent to open fields with no near neighbours – fabulous really. What we do like about the 1960s’ design is the large windows and openings, which bring lots of lovely and natural light into the house and offer a good view out into the garden and wider long-distance countryside. However, the windows are all single glazed and we find that it is very cold here in the winter months. We also assume that there is very little insulation as our boiler is constantly running and, because there is no near gas supply, the oil heating bills are very high. We would like to create a five-bedroom house. We have three children and that would give us one spare bedroom for guests. We would also like to create a fabulous kitchen and dining room, but with separate rooms for television and entertaining. The house is currently open plan, but we find it is difficult to live in for our family requirements as both teenagers and adults need separate spaces. Also, we have a creative production company and would like to build a cellar with a recording room and cinema. Most of all, we like the outdoors, nature and sport, so would like to bring as much of our natural aspect into the inside of the house as possible.
We also need a four-bay garage for a small collection of classic cars and a workshop. The biggest challenge for us is to decide what style the house should be. We love the traditional farmhouses dotted around the lanes near us – the weatherboarding, tile hanging and pretty brickwork – but we are concerned this might restrict our design options. We also like the ‘Grand Designs’ modern projects – as seen on TV – so are a little confused about which way to go. We are a creative family so very open to ideas and want to have a beautiful home which is comfortable, welcoming and expressive. It would be wonderful to have some advice about design options and, whilst we have a flexible budget, some guidance on likely costings and finally process. How do we go about building our dream home? Yours, Joanna and Giles, Horsmonden, Kent OUR ANSWER What a wonderful sounding project you are embarking upon. The next two years will be incredibly exciting and, at times, challenging for you. Of course, you have immediately raised the age-old question when embarking on a new build: “Should it be traditional or modern?” The answer really comes down to what you, as the homeowner, feel most comfortable with. What is equally important is to create a building that responds directly to its setting and location. It is quite possible to create a splendid contemporary house which will harmonise with its setting and respond to the location just as equally as it is possible to create a traditionallooking building which has absolutely no relationship to its site. Whether it be modern or traditional, careful consideration of the site is paramount. It is important to consider where the building will be located, its ground levels, its aspect, orientation
and surroundings. The surroundings and backdrop of the site will feed into the design process. Trees, screening, colour, view and light will inform decisions on materials and orientation. Orientation, in turn, will inform the decisionmaking process for room location and internal flow of space. There are right and wrongs in this process, but a great deal comes down to intuition and preference. The best way to develop the design is to explore all options. Working through a brief and discussing and weighing up the benefits of each often helps inform the decision-making process. Some options are discounted in favour of those which are preferred, or maybe sometimes there is just a feeling of the space flow and orientation. Standing on-site and visualising your new house helps assess how the light might work during the seasons and times of day and add to the mix. In many ways, it’s like a giant jigsaw puzzle, and when the pieces come into the right places it immediately fits. The initial design stage is probably the most crucial, so it’s best not to rush it and let it evolve at a pace you are comfortable with, as it is much more cost-effective to make changes on paper than to make alterations when the house is being constructed. From a planning perspective, and subject to design, there is unlikely to be much resistance to an application for a sensible-sized replacement dwelling and the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] local plan states: POLICY H10 1 Outside the Limits to Built Development, as defined on the Proposals Map, the replacement of an existing dwelling will be permitted provided all of the following criteria are satisfied: a) The existing building enjoys a lawful residential use which has not been abandoned; b) The replacement dwelling would be sited on, or as close as is reasonably practicable to, the site of the existing dwelling, unless an alternative
position on the plot would result in clear landscape, access or local amenity benefits; c) The replacement dwelling would be no more obtrusive in the landscape than the dwelling which is to be replaced; and 2 In appropriate cases, temporary accommodation such as a caravan may be permitted on-site during rebuilding, provided the works are continuous. Under this policy, there is no particular restriction on the size of a replacement dwelling, but the application will be tested by its ‘obtrusiveness on the landscape’. This comes down to the design, mass and bulk of the building and it’s a subjective matter.
‘This is the fun stage, where design options are considered and the conversation about design direction commences’ The beauty of any subterranean level is that it will not add to any visual bulk and mass of the replacement dwelling, and as such is a good way of increasing the floor area without contravening policy H10. Any basement works will need to be carefully considered in terms of tanking, and we would always recommend engaging with a specialist firm who offer an insurance-backed warranty for both the installation and product. In terms of process, it is firstly crucial to find the right team to help with the project from inception to implementation and through to completion. Meeting with several design practices is key to ensuring you find the right team who are in tune with you and, most importantly, who you can trust implicitly. The project will be a long and sometimes emotional journey and trust will be the key to its success. Upon appointment of your designer, the following stages are likely to apply for implementation of the works:
Architectural Advice
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
n Stage 1. Full measured and topographical survey and production of ‘as-existing’ drawings. In order for the planning department to assess the application, it is important to be able to show the relationship between the existing building and proposed one, and the measured survey will form the base of this presentation. It will also be necessary to obtain a topographical survey of the site which will show any contours or changes in level, along with the position of boundaries and any existing buildings within the site. The design for the new dwelling will draw upon this information. n Stage 2. Design development and preparation of master plan drawings for planning application to the Local Authority [LA]. This is the fun stage, where design options are considered and the conversation about design direction commences. The aim is to arrive at a set of drawings showing the proposed new dwelling in context of the site. n Stage 3. Planning application to LA. This would involve the preparation of the necessary planning application forms and a statement explaining the design concept and evolution, which would be submitted online to
the planning department. There is a fee payable to the LA for planning applications, and for your scope of works it would be £385. The planning process takes eight weeks from registration of the planning application and involves a three-week public consultation period where neighbours and the Parish Council are able to make comments both negative and positive. We would always recommend engaging with your neighbours and explaining the scheme to try and alleviate any concerns at an early stage. n Stage 4. Building Regulations drawings and specifications. Once planning permission is granted, it will be necessary to define how the works will be built and submit a specification to the building inspector which is a statutory requirement. For a new build, it is also paramount to obtain an insurance-backed guarantee for the works as any lender will insist upon this if the house is sold within a ten-year period after completion. This can be obtained from organisations such as the NHBC or Buildzone. During this stage, it is also worth exploring options for heating and energy production. If the house is well insulated then
any heat produced should stay within the envelope. Currently, it sounds like much of the heat you produce escapes from a poorly insulated frame and single-glazed windows. Insulation is the key, and then this opens up options for the heating unit. Specialists will advise of pay-back times for the various options, but worth considering are heat pumps, geothermal, woodchip and solar options. n Stage 5. Detailed working drawings for tender. It is advisable to try and define the full scope
‘It will be a long process, but will be hugely rewarding and immensely enjoyable’ of works and design all elements of the project down to the lighting. A fully specified tender document will allow everything to be costed by the contractor prior to commencement of works in order that the price can be fixed. We would recommend obtaining four prices by way of a competitive tender process, which will
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allow for a quantifiable assessment of costs and offer the best value. n Stage 6. Project Management. We would always recommend entering into a formal contract for the works to protect yourselves and the contractor. A contract would be implemented by the contract administrator, who will also oversee the works and ensure everything runs smoothly. Depending upon the contractor, a project of this scale is likely to take in the region of 12 months. Costs for the build are a little more difficult to define as it is wholly dependent upon the design and expectations on finishes, however – and as a very broad brush – it is prudent to make initial budget calculations on £2,000 per square metre. It is unlikely to be less, but likely to increase. Most of all, don’t underestimate how timeconsuming a project such as this will be. It will be a long process with many decisions to be made along the way, but – with the right people in place – will be hugely rewarding and immensely enjoyable. Email: enquiries@johnbullockdesign.com
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PROPERTY
Holmesdale
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
AT A GLANCE
HOLMESDALE THE GREEN, OTFORD ■ Attached family home in Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ■ 4 reception rooms, including a music room ■ Large kitchen/breakfast room ■ 2 bathrooms ■ Master suite with dressing room and en-suite with Jacuzzi ■ 5 further bedrooms ■ Established gardens ■ Terraced areas ■ Enclosed tennis court ■ Double garage with electric doors ■ Gravel driveway with off-road parking for several vehicles
GUIDE PRICE
£1,695,000 Available for sale through Maddisons Residential Tunbridge Wells 01892 514100 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk
With established gardens and an enclosed tennis court, this is a truly wonderful residence
A standout Grade II listed Queen Anne property situated on the village green
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PROPERTY
Advertising
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FEATURES
Luxury Gift Guide Special
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
TWINNING IS WINNING Luxury swim shorts, Men’s: £130, Boys: £70, Love Brand, www.lovebrand.com
TIMELESS ELEGANCE Uboat watch Classico 50 Bronze Chronograph, £4000, www.jurawatches.co.uk
FOR HIM Treat the man who has it all with one of these luxury purchases
CRACKING TASTE Relax and refresh, Jo Malone London Christmas Cracker, £34, Fenwick, www.fenwick.co.uk
MORE THAN WORDS: One of only 1,800 hand-numbered luxury editions of the original manuscript by F Scott Fitzgerald, £199, SP Books, www.spbooks.com
PRIZED POSSESSION: Made to order cufflink box, £490, The Edward Barnsley Workshop, www.barnsleyfurniture.co.uk
TRAVEL IN STYLE Richmond Leather Holdall Navy, £495, David Hampton www.davidhampton.com
SMELL OF SUCCESS Viking by Creed, from £185 (50ml), www.creedfragrances.co.uk TEE TIME: Score a hole in one with this gift, Lamberhurst Golf Club membership, prices vary, www.lamberhurstgolfclub.com
MUSIC TO OUR EARS Evoke C-D4 £289.99, Pure, www.pure.com and John Lewis
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HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES: Astell&Kern AK70 MkII portable music player, £600, www.astellnkern.com
DRIVING FORCE: The Lotus Driving Academy offers a range of experiences from £119, visit www. lotusdrivingacademy.com
SNOW BUSINESS: Starry Moon Boot: £105, www.moon-boot.com
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NEED FOR SPEED Harley Davidson,£117, Joanna Wood, www.joannawood.com
BE ON RED ALERT: Sugarcube bag, £60, Zatchels www.zatchels.com
UP IN THE AIR: Present your loved one with a trip on a private plane this Christmas, Strata Jets gift cards can be bought up to any value. Call 020 3397 4999 to book your place.
TAKE A ROAD TRIP… A travel inspired gift is always warmly received
LISTEN UP: Beoplay H4 headphones, £249, Bang & Olufsen www. beoplay.com
BACK TO BLACK: Racing holdhall, £1,400, Chopard, www.chopard.com
SUITS YOU: 7R Master Ducord, £600, wwwhartmannluggage. co.uk and Harrods
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FEATURES
Luxury Gift Guide Special
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
FOOD AND DRINK
SWEET SEASONAL TREAT Twelve Days of Christmas, £40, Biscuiteers, www.biscuiteers.com
Tempt your taste buds with the season’s finest food and drink offerings ROYAL APPROVAL: The Partridges Hamper, £185 or The Buckingham, £500, www. partridges.co.uk
WINE O’CLOCK Keep things local with this treat for the palate, Ortega white wine, £12.20 per bottle, Biddenden Vineyards www. biddendenvineyards.com
GREEN LEAF TEA China teapot and cup, £90, www.t2tea.com
A CUT ABOVE Pro 3 Piece Cheese Knife Set by Paxton & Whitfield £44.00, www.bearandbear.com LET CHRISTMAS BE GIN Slingsby Gin, £39.99, wslingsby.co.uk
ENJOY A WEE DRAM: Johnnie Walker Limited Edition Tom Dixon gift set, £200, available from The Whisky Shop, The Whisky Exchange, Selfridges and Harrods
Luxury Gift Guide Special
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LOCAL PRODUCE: Sustainable and local Romney Marsh soaps, The Silver Sheep - £4 www.thesilversheep.co.uk
A DAY IN THE LIFE: Be an Engine Driver packages, The Spa Valley Railway from £275 www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD Tickets for The Wizard of Oz, Trinity Theatre starting at £18 (including booking fees) www.trinitytheatre.net TRIED AND TESTED Beer gift pack or voucher, The Beer Boutique from £18 per pack or vouchers of your choice www.thebeerboutique.com
SHAKEN NOT STIRRED James Bond first impression hardback, Adrian Harrington Rare Books £1,250 www.harringtonbooks.co.uk
ONE OF A KIND Zeiss Terra 8x32 Binoculars, Pantiles Cameras £359 www.pantilescameras.com
TOGETHER FOR CHRISTMAS Enjoy a local Christmas this year with Tunbridge Wells Together’s ultimate gift list. From experience packages to one-of-a-kind stocking fillers, there’s something to please even the hardest friends and family members to buy for…
AN EYE FOR DETAIL Caran D’ache boxed set of pencils, M Saltmarsh - £420 www.msaltmarsh.com
BAKE OFF Gingerbread House Home Baking Set by BakedIn, Hoopers - £9.95 www.hoopersstores.com THE GIFT OF CHOICE Royal Victoria Place gift card, Royal Victoria Place from £20 upwards www.royalvictoriaplace.com
GIN O CLOCK Spiced Malfy Gin, Marks & Spencer £28 www.marksandspencer.com FINE DINING: Cases of Bordeaux wine, Fromage & French from £75 www.fromageandfrench.com
STYLE FIX Toni & Guy Style Fix Waver, Boots - £30 www.boots.com
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FEATURES
Luxury Gift Guide Special
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
MADE UP: Make Mine a Prosecco Make Up Bag, £14, The English Beagle, www. theenglishbeagle.com
TINY DANCER Ballerina pendant, £45, Ted Baker, www.tedbaker.com
GO WITH THE GLOW Amazing Face beauty balm, £44, Emma Hardie, www.emmahardie.com and Fenwick
STOCKING FILLERS
ARM CANDY Stacking bracelets, £450, Annie Hak, www.anniehaakdesigns.co.uk
TRAVEL IN STYLE Tan personalised luggage tags £35, KeriKit, www.kerikit.com
WHAT LIES BENEATH Figleaves Allure Bra and Brief, set £18 and £16, Figleaves www.figleaves.com
Santa baby leave a treat or two like these when you come down that chimney on Christmas Eve IT’S A CRACKER Jo Malone London Ultimate Christmas Cracker, £205, Jo Malone, www.jomalone.co.uk
SCENT THE SEASON Candles, £65 each, The Chapel, www.thechapel. co.uk and from their Tunbridge Wells, and Sevenoaks salons
EARN YOUR STRIPES Calf leather pochette, £395, Paul Smith Floris Street, Covent Garden
CHEERS Il Gusto Christmas Tree filled with a choice of liqueurs, from £15.50 www.ilgusto.uk.com
Luxury Gift Guide Special
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SIMPLE AND STYLISH Design Ibiza medium round pendant Gold finish, £65, Les Georgettes, www.lesgeorgettes.com
FEET FIRST: Cashmere Contrast Ballet Slipper £75, The White Company, www.thewhitecompany.com
PAMPER TIME Fat Face Spa In a Jar, £25, www.fatface.com
SMOOTH AS SILK: A truly luxurious silk scarf created from one of the artist’s mesmerising designs. £100, www.susanfynes.com
CALLING CARDS: Iphis Print Card Holder, £55, Liberty London, www.liberty.com
TOP HAT Keep snug in a branded beanie hat from one of the hottest new places in town. £20, available from the shop at 102 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells. www.marlowes.co
HOT CHOCOLATE Christmas Planet box of luxury chocolates, Pierre Marcolini, £129, www. uk.marcolini.com
LET THERE BE GIN The Ivy Centenary gin gift box £50, John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com
SCENT OF A WOMAN: Chloé signature eau de parfum 50ml from £68, available nationwide
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FEATURES
Food & Drink
A taste of the good life Local Herbalist Sophie Lamb and her sister Naomi Murray, of well-being business Botanica Health in Rusthall, recently appeared on BBC1’s Countryfile programme, where they extolled the virtues of foraging from nature’s rich bounty. The Times finds out more from Sophie about their starring role and discovers tips for leading a healthier lifestyle…
INNER BEAUTY Is even more important than outwardly healthy looks. Naomi (left) and Sophie have both
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
WE COME from a long line of doctors dating back nearly 300 years. Our father, Brian Lamb, is Scotland’s longest practising Medical Herbalist, and I am the only second-generation Medical Herbalist in the UK. My clinic is based in my sister Naomi’s boutique health store, Botanica Health in Rusthall. With winter fast approaching, and antibiotic resistance on the rise, the question of how best to protect our immune system is high on the agenda. With this in mind, my family were invited to appear on Countryfile earlier this month. We showed viewers some of the immune-boosting plants that grow in Kent, such as rosehip and the sweet chestnut leaf. But our appearance on one of the BBC’s most successful shows on Remembrance Sunday was no coincidence. We were asked to extol the virtues of using nature’s rich abundance of plants and herbs because, during the war effort, the Ministry of Health relied on a steady and vital supply of these in order to help with many ailments. The opium poppy, for example, helped with pain relief, while foxgloves gave heart rhythmstabilising compounds. Rosehips were a very important source of vitamin C (they contain 20-50 times more than oranges) and were collected and turned into syrup to protect children against scurvy when the importation of citrus fruits was greatly reduced. My sister Naomi and I also talked about the benefits of the spices that
‘From hedgerow to health, our childhood was punctuated by regular herbpicking outings with our father’ are more than likely to be in your own kitchen cupboard. These include the antibiotic effect of garlic and the antiviral elements of star anise. The latter provides the key ingredient for the drug Tamiflu, and serves as an interesting reminder that up to 50 per cent of drugs developed in the last 30 years, and 11 per cent of drugs on the World Health Organisation’s List of Essential Medicines, come from plants – aspirin, morphine, lidocaine and atropine, to name a few. From hedgerow to health, our childhood was punctuated by regular herb-picking outings with our father and two other sisters in the Highlands of Scotland, where our family lived. Early memories include making Coltsfoot syrup out of the honeysmelling yellow flowers, being bootdeep in a bog collecting bog bean (extremely useful for rheumatic and muscular pain), and picking the delicate eyebright plant (used for hayfever) on sandy coastal paths.
Food & Drink
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
BOUTIQUE HEALTH BENEFITS In Rusthall High Street Combining leading science with traditional botanical medicine and nutrition, visitors to Botanica can browse through specialist wholefoods, loose green and white teas, nutritional and sports supplements, natural skin care, children’s supplements and products unique to the store. If you didn’t manage to catch us on Countryfile, then please do drop into our shop in Rusthall where we would be delighted to say hello. For more information on Botanica Health. you can also visit www.botanicahealth.co.uk
Go foraging yourself on page 68 >>
n 1 pack of green chillies (I used a hot variety, but you can use a medium or whatever strength you like) n 1 pack of red chillies n 1 square inch of fresh ginger n Olive oil (enough to blend mixture into a paste) n A good splash of apple cider vinegar
This anti-inflammatory, antiviral winter warmer hot toddy is perfect for the season of winter ailments. Take as a preventative or when feeling under the weather. It truly is medicinal, and evokes such a feeling of warmth and protection it is sure to be loved by the whole family
This is how I like to use it: n Oatcakes with butter and cheese for lunch and a nice little side salad of watercress or rocket. n Mash a teaspoon into boiled eggs with salt and a little English mustard with some toast and butter or oatcakes. n Indian-style potatoes: Fry in a little olive oil, add turmeric and black pepper and toss in some left cooked or leftover potatoes. n In an omelette: Fry olive oil with some turmeric and black pepper, a teaspoon of garlic and chilli special, Method n In a teapot, add a thumb-sized piece then add eggs, cheese and salt. of grated ginger, 4 crushed juniper n A teaspoon is delicious in berries, 4 star anise, 2 cinnamon tomato soup sticks and a pinch of chilli flakes. n Pour over boiling water and infuse Food literally becomes medicine. for around 10 minutes. Here are just a few things this n In a cup, add a freshly squeezed recipe will do for you: lemon and 1 heaped teaspoon of n Boost immunity heather or raw honey. Pour hot toddy n Increase thermogenesis – through a strainer into cup, topping valuable in weight management up as needed. Sometimes I use n Eliminate Candida & intestinal oranges instead, but the lemons parasites provide an alkalising effect. n Increase protection against cancer Here are some of the benefits of the n Lower blood pressure other ingredients used: n Lower blood fats and regulate Ginger – contains potent properties cholesterol called gingerols that inhibit and n Improve circulation tame the inflammation process that n Decongest the lungs occurs during illness. It is warming n Protect colon health and promotes mild sweating.
PHOTO: By Alexandru Stavrica
Method Blend in a mini-chopper into a course paste and dispense into a clean jar and store in the fridge,
This recipe is easy and cheap to make, but incredibly valuable for your health. You make it as a condiment and it will keep in the fridge for weeks due to its own antimicrobial properties. I often give little jars of this as a gifts to friends…
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WINTER WARMER HOT TODDY
Sophie’s favourite recipes
GARLIC AND CHILLI SPECIAL
FEATURES
Star Anise – in 2005, the world was in short supply of this oriental spice due to drug company Roche using it extensively in creating Tamiflu, the drug against SARS Avian flu. It helps the body fight off illness. Cinnamon – research shows that cinnamon fights resistant bacterial and viral infections. It also stabilises blood sugar, has anti-clotting effects and, combined with honey, has been shown to relieve arthritic pain. Juniper – acts as a natural decongestant and moves excess mucus from the respiratory tract and dilates bronchial tubes. Care should be taken with this during pregnancy. Heather honey – has been effective in combatting MRSA, and research shows it is more beneficial than the more popular Manuka honey.
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Food & Drink
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Let’s go foraging… If you were inspired by Botanica’s love of sourcing ingredients from nature’s rich bounty on page 66, then find out how to both source and grow your own from Great Dixter’s Aaron Bertelsen… Edible flowers
Violas, calendulas and cornflowers bring a great deal of joy to my life, as well as a lovely splash of colour to my salads. The wonderful thing about all these plants is that they will self-sow, giving that artless effect I strive so hard to achieve with my planting. To start them off, sow under glass in spring and prick out into plug trays until you have sturdy seedlings. When planting, just tuck them into the places where nothing else will be growing and try to resist the temptation to make it all too uniform and regular.
Poppies I also grow chives – Allium schoenoprasum – which are great in a potato salad and also very pretty to look at. Then there are the decorative flowers I grow just because they look so beautiful or have a wonderful scent, such as opium poppies, pinks and the two rows of rather fabulous tulips Orange Princess and Estella Rijnveld, which I have tucked under the espaliered pear trees. When growing edible flowers, it’s also important to keep them under control so that they don’t start to compete with the vegetable plants. This is why you won’t see nasturtiums growing in my garden. They may be beautiful, but they are also the thugs of the edible flower world.
Favourite varieties: For violas, try Prince John, Bowles’s Black and, best of all, Viola cornuta. The problem with these is that their little faces are so sweet that you won’t want to pick them. This year, I have grown a new calendula, Solar Flashback Mix, which more than lives up to its name. Another good, interesting variety is Sherbert Fizz. I have also grown a lovely little marigold, Tagetes patula Alumia Vanilla Cream, which I ordered without bothering to find out anything about it. I planted it in the middle of a double row of parsley that has, unfortunately, been swamped. The marigold is perfectly formed, but rather small, so next year I’ll grow it on its own. Key dates: Sow under glass in early spring and plant out strong seedlings once the soil has warmed up.
Common problems: Many edible flowers are self-sowers, and over time they can start to compete with your vegetables. For me, the vegetables always come first, so I thin out the seedlings whenever I’m weeding.
Blackcurrants
Most of the blackcurrants grown in the UK are used for drinks and cordials, and never make it to the shops. As a result, they are not part of our culinary culture, which I think is a great shame. I really love their distinctive flavour. Juicy yet tart, and intensely aromatic, they make the most wonderful jam. The most difficult thing about the fruit is removing it from the trusses in the first place. This can be rather fiddly and time-consuming, and is definitely one of those jobs best shared with friends. You can always pay them in jam! The bushes need to be pruned in the winter, ideally on a cold sunny day. Blackcurrants grow on canes, of which around a third should be cut down to the ground every winter. Start with the oldest and weakest growth, then look to cut out anything that is causing congestion in the centre of the plant to make sure the sun can get to the fruit and ripen it. The plant will give off a unique smell as you prune, both green and fruity at the same time. This can be very helpful where blackcurrants and redcurrants are grown together and you can’t tell the difference. Redcurrants need to be reduced rather than cut right back. Blackcurrants are greedy plants, so mulch in winter and fork in some fish, blood and bone meal in the spring, remembering to water it in well unless you want your dogs to get some digging practice. Water is the key to getting a good crop. In the past I have overlooked the currants when watering and they have suffered for it. If you are not growing them in a fruit café, you might need to cover them to keep birds at bay.
Favourite varities: ‘Boskoop Giant’ is the variety Christopher liked, and the one we still grow today. It does well on our soil and yields plenty of good-sized fruit. Key dates: Prune in winter, cutting around a third of the canes right down to the base, and follow up with a layer of mulch. Feed in spring.
Common problems: Birds can scent out and strip a blackcurrant bush in no time, so make sure you protect the aromatic fruit with netting –or grow the bushes inside a protective fruit cage. Words and images courtesy of The Great Dixter Cookbook: Recipes from an English Garden by Aaron Bertelsen, published by Phaidon and priced £24.95. Available from good bookshops
Food & Drink
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Perfect pairings for your Christmas sweet treats
If you like Harvey’s Bristol Cream, try this…
Exquisite Collection Cream Sherry NV, Spain (18%, £5.79, Aldi, 50cl) The vicar’s legacy endures, as cream sherry is still by far the most popular sherry style in the UK. This is a mahogany-coloured, blended and fortified wine made by sweetening Oloroso with Pedro Ximénez grapes. It has a dark colour and dances across the palate with its richness of Madeira and fruitcakes, caramel, walnut, plump raisins and spice. This quintessentially commercial and festive sherry is best served over ice, and hands-down comes into its own at this time of the year because it’s just the ticket for Christmas pud, mince pies, Christmas cake and sweet pastries. Ace value (and granny will be pleased).
Barrel-aged Greek gem
2011 Samos Anthemis Vin de Liqueur, Greece (15%, £9.50-£10.99, The Wine Society, Adnams & Waitrose, 50 cl) You simply must hunt this wine down for your Christmas pudding. Fortified to 15% and matured in oak casks for five years, this complex Samian wine packs bags of toffee, honeyed and figgy flavours, with touches of tobacco, crème brûlée, rose petal and chocolate. Few wines the world over come as guaranteed to astonish as this does. Try a sip with mince pies, tarte tatin, panettone and blue cheeses, too. This wondrous wine is a treasure and belongs in your glass.
Gossamer-light, fruity & gently fizzy fantastico
2016 La Spinetta Moscato D’Asti Bricco Quaglia DOCG, Italy (5.5%, £16.50-£18.50, WoodWinters & Hedonism Wines)
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More winning wines for Christmas pud n Moscatel de Setúbal, e.g. José Maria da Fonseca
Successores (Portugal) n Malvasia from Madeira, e.g. Henriques & Henriques ten-year-old Malvasia (Portugal) n Tawny Port, e.g. Graham’s 20-year-old (Portugal) n Bleasdale’s The Wise One ten-year-old Tawny (Australia) n Rutherglen Muscat, e.g. Stanton & Killeen Classic Rutherglen Muscat NV (Australia) n PX Sherry, e.g. Osborne Venerable Pedro Ximenez 30 years old (Spain) n Banyuls, e.g. Domaine de la Rectorie (France) n Passito di Pantelleria, e.g. Donnafugata’s Ben Ryé (Italy) n California Orange Muscat, e.g. Andrew Quady’s Essencia (USA)
With preparations for fabulous festive feasts already underway in many households, you’ll need the ideal alcohol to either mix into your puds or panettone – or to sip alongside them at the table. Here, Times’ wine writer James Viner recommends the best bottles to complement your culinary creations for the big day… CHRISTMAS pudding and wine is a match made in heaven – but when choosing a wine, ensure you pick one that’s sweeter than the food. Try these…
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Feeling fruity? For out-and-out abandon, nothing trumps this relatively sweet, low-alcohol, gently effervescent wine from Piemonte’s signature white grape. This is the classiest and most decadent Moscato d’Asti I’ve savoured in years. Grapey, scented and luscious, with sappy notes of peach, orange blossom, apricot and basil, Spinetta’s celebrated artisanal Moscato is gorgeously refined and well worth the premium price. Harness this bracingly fruity, benchmark pétillant Moscato to Christmas pud or Gorgonzola and rejoice. Resistance is futile! Serve well-chilled in wine glasses to elated guests after the heavy festive meal.
Hungarian sweetie
2013 Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos, Lidl (9.5%, £13.99, Lidl, 50cl) This legendary Hungarian wine has been produced since the middle of the 16th century. Bottles of this precious nectar, made from slowly-
fermented nobly rotted (botrytis-affected) grapes known as aszú, were kept by the bedside of the Russian Tsars. Popes and monarchs (such as Queen Victoria, who also relished Christmas Plum Pudding) were also rather partial. This Lidl beauty is chewy, sweet and sour, with a sherry-like tang and redolent of apricots, peaches, orange peel, dried prunes and tobacco. The penetrating flavours are drawn across a live-wire framework of bright lemon-peel acidity, spinning across the palate, and the aftertaste is little short of spectacular. Its sweet-salty opposition of flavours mean it’s primed for the cheeseboard, especially with Stilton and Roquefort. Equally a hedonistic winner with plum pudding, mild Chinese cuisine and apple pie. Serve lightly chilled. Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine
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Advertorial Feature
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
A good grilling It’s been a busy few months at Zorba Restaurant in Tunbridge Wells. If you want to eat there, you may need to book in advance. Here, Hannah Patterson meets with owner, Sedat Zorba, to find out what has made his establishment the toast of the town… I seem to never see your restaurant empty. Have you been enjoying your first few months here?
It’s been a dream running a Turkish restaurant with my family, and business is going well. I have only one complaint, which isn’t really a complaint – initially everyone mistook us for a Greek restaurant because of the name. The name Zorba is our family name so, although people often think we are a Greek restaurant, it’s great to have our name on the door here in Tunbridge Wells.
How did this dream become a reality?
restaurant, especially since, on the first day we were open, we found out my wife was pregnant again.
Tell us about your menu – how did you develop it?
We sat down with the chefs and thought about what we could do that really suited the people of Tunbridge Wells. It’s common knowledge that those who live here are very clued-up when it comes to food, and very conscious of where their food comes from and what they are putting into their bodies. With that in mind, we decided to offer both hot and cold mezes, as well as a Mangal section, which includes yoghurt, sauces and a variety of trimmings. As well as having a wide variety of options, we also ensure that our meat is of the best quality, and that everything we cook here is completely fresh.
My brother has a Turkish restaurant on the Isle of Sheppey that is takeaway only, so hospitality is in the family. We wanted to move to Kent, and when we asked the locals where the best place in Kent was, they told us about Tunbridge Wells. After we moved here, we ran a little café for years. But we wanted a restaurant – somewhere we could truly showcase some of the best of Turkish cuisine. The restaurant’s location on Upper Grosvenor Road is ideal, so when the previous owner was happy to see to us, we snapped up the chance. It was not a small job opening up. We ripped everything out and completely redecorated. That was around six months ago. The goal was always to find a nice place in Kent and for my wife and I to work together – this ZORBA THE TURK: Many is what we always wanted. think Zorba is Greek, but We really are a family it’s Sedat’s family name
Do you use local suppliers for your meat?
Forge Farm provide all our meat. We are very particular about the meat we use – the middle neck, which is a cut of 4 per cent of the lamb, and you only get one portion per lamb. It’s a very fine meat, and that’s what makes it so special. You need to strip the meat from the bone and marinate it within half an hour to get it just right. Once that’s done, it marinates for two days before being ready to cook.
THE RESTAURANT In Upper Grosvenor Road Vacuum-packed meat just isn’t the same – we are serving meat of the highest standard.
What is the most popular dish?
Chicken is always popular, especially in such a health-conscious town. Other than that, the starters are a particularly favourite. The Babaganoush, a smoked aubergine puree with garlic and olive oil, is ordered a lot as well as mezes such as calamari, falafel and halloumi. The Cacik has been recently growing in popularity, too – it’s a mix of goats’ milk yoghurt, finely chopped cucumber, dill, fresh mint and garlic. The Adana very popular from the main menu – a traditional dish from Adana, which is where my wife is from. If a Turkish restaurant doesn’t have Adana on the menu, it isn’t Turkish.
Are you looking to develop your menu further, or do you believe you’ve got it just right? We are looking to expand our menu to include a few extras that we think will go down really well in Tunbridge Wells, such as scallops. You can expect to see these changes in the next couple of weeks. We won’t be getting rid of the favourites, though, don’t worry.
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DRINKING IN THE ATMOSPHERE Some of the beers and wines are popular, too
‘We are looking to expand our menu to include extras that we think will go down really well in Tunbridge Wells’ And have there been favourites with your drinks?
Yes – our Turkish beer, Efes, is our biggest seller. I think about 60 per cent of our drinks sales are probably this beer. It’s very light and smooth. Our Turkish wine is doing really well, too – the Yakut and the Villa Doluca are great reds, and the Cankaya is a really delicious white.
living in Turkey, I find that the food is a very difficult cuisine to get really right. It’s something that a lot of people want to invest in and work with, but it’s not as simple as you might think – even if you’re Turkish! But you don’t get bored with Turkish food. It has a variety of flavours that you crave again and again.
Why do you think Turkish food has seen a rise in popularity?
If you were a customer, what would you order from your menu?
Yes, Turkish cuisine is becoming really popular. Customers enjoy that we grill with charcoal as it reduces fat and gives a complex taste. Even with having worked in this industry since I was 12 and
A mixed meze platter, to get all the flavours! Both the hot and the cold are great, but I’d go for the hot as I love the calamari. I’d then have the mixed platter as you get everything on it. I also love the salads here, as we have a delicious pomegranate sauce we drizzle on it that
you can’t buy in the supermarket. And the mixed platter is a good order for couples, as it gives you a chance to taste a bit of everything – whether you’re new to Turkish food and want to try it all, or you love Turkish food and can’t decide.
ZORBA MEZE GRILL RESTAURANT 4 Upper Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2EN Tel: 01892 530051 www.zorbamezegrill.com
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Travel
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Heavenly Hawaii JURASSIC FANTASTIC The views at Kualoa Ranch in Oahu, Hawaii, which was used for filming such movies as Jurassic World
flight, but it’s totally worth it. The volcanic landscape is a world apart from Oahu – swathes of craggy pewter-tinged black rock stretch out on either side of the road on the drive to our hotel, a striking contrast against the bright blue skies. And, as I soon discover, the Hilton Waikoloa Village does a good job in matching the drama of the scenery – it’s so vast, this epic resort is like a Bond villain lair, complete with boats and a monorail to transport guests from reception to room. Luxurious sleeping areas, a sprawling spa and choice of bars, plus a pool far too big to fit in a single Instagram shot – it’d be easy to spend an entire holiday in the resort and love every minute.
‘This epic resort is like a Bond villain lair, complete with boats and a monorail to transport guests from reception to room’
As the launch of Virgin Holiday Experiences makes it easier than ever to craft a dream trip, Abi Jackson heads to this Polynesian paradise to get up close and personal with some gentle giants…
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HEN you’re too old for Santa and don’t bother with the Lotto, there aren’t many moments in life where you experience total, wondrous, I-can’t-believe-this-is-really-happening anticipation. But right now, about 200-metres off the shore of Keauhou Bay on the west coast of Hawaii Island – wet-suited and flipper-booted, my snorkelmasked face planted firmly downwards – that is exactly what I’m experiencing. I’m doing an Evening Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure with Fair Wind Cruises – one of the 300 ‘Experiences’ Virgin Holidays has just introduced to their holiday packages, making it easier than ever to craft your dream trip. The sun’s already set, and I and about 15 others are clinging on to a special float affixed with torches, whose beams of light are peppered with plankton (a food source which will hopefully attract the mantas). With more than 250 of the gentle giants (their wingspans can exceed 15ft) within a 30-mile stretch of this region, sightings are a pretty safe bet. But as the first few minutes tick by, I can’t help wondering: ‘What if they don’t show up tonight?’ Then, out of the blue, a huge pale creature glides towards us, opening his mouth into a huge gaping grin as he starts to slowly somersault, making light but mesmerising work of swallowing up his plankton feast. Cue excited looks all round – then he swims so close I can see straight down his gills and feel the tips of his wings brush against my belly (snorkellers are strictly forbidden from touching as it can damage the manta ray’s delicate skin, but the wildlife has free reign). Another slightly smaller ray follows, and soon these delightful creatures are in full Strictly Come Dancing mode, tumbling top-to-tail just inches below us. After an hour in the water, shrivelled and shivering, I clamber back on to the boat, fighting seasickness but bubbling with pure, unadulterated joy. There was a time when experiences like this were the reserve of ‘proper’ adventurers. But that’s fast changing – because we’re no longer holidaymakers, we’re holiday-doers, eager to
FAMOUS Waikiki Beach make those precious weeks away really count by filling them with once-in-a-lifetime encounters. And that’s what Virgin Holidays Experiences is all about. How does it work? After selecting your holiday, you can add the experiences you fancy, then all the organising is taken care of for you (no trawling through websites or bartering with excursion reps after check-in).
‘I clamber back on to the boat, fighting seasickness but bubbling with unadulterated joy’ Let’s face it: Hawaii is a dream destination, and getting there will set you back a few bob. It’s also a long way away (direct flights might be a possibility in future, but for now it’s basically a 24-hour journey once you factor in a stopover), so you want to get it right. Knowing someone has done the groundwork for me when it comes to planning activities, is a welcome perk. Not that you could go far wrong. This Polynesian paradise guarantees sunshine, surf and scenery straight out of Jurassic World (its lush landscapes feature in numerous blockbusters, including that hit dinosaur caper, plus Godzilla and Snatched). Hawaii state is actually an archipelago of more than 100 islands, but they’re not all inhabited, and there are eight main ones – each with unique characteristics. My flying visit is split between
two: Oahu, home of the state capital, Honolulu, and Hawaii Island, aka ‘The Big Island’. I start in Honolulu, staying at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Hotel, which backs right on to the world-famous golden sands and sits slap-bang in the middle of the city, on a street dotted with designer shops and restaurants that wouldn’t look out of place in Miami. While it would be criminal not to devote some quality time to soaking up the sun and surf vibes on Waikiki Beach – and taking dips in the almost-bath-temperature sea – I’m keen to see as much as I can, so I’ve tagged on two ‘Experiences’ on Oahu. The first is an early morning hike up Diamond Head – a 300,000-year-old crater that was once an important military lookout – with panoramic views overlooking the island and ocean beyond. Though steep in parts, it takes less than an hour to reach the top and is a great way to work up an appetite. Honolulu is not short of great places to eat! I feast on Crab Cake Benedict at Hau Tree Lanai, famous for its extensive takes on the classic eggs dish, while Tiki’s Grill & Bar serves down-to-earth but delicious hearty fare, and one of the best Mai Tai’s in town. I hadn’t expected Honolulu to be quite so glossy and glam (what do you mean everybody in Hawaii doesn’t live in flip-flops and board shorts?), and this means a string of fancy restaurants have cropped up in recent years. Head to the newlyopened Baku for melt-in-your-mouth sushi, while Herringbone – both just a few minutes’ walk from Outrigger – also serves spectacular seafood. My second ‘Experience’, however, the Foodie Tour by Bike, is an ideal way to get a taste of Honolulu. Founder and guide Kelly – an ageing Californian hippy who ‘came to Hawaii on a surfing vacation 35 years ago and never left’ – leads small group cycle tours, stopping off for potted history lessons along the way, and to sample some of the city’s more interesting, hyped up and authentic food spots. You don’t need to rely solely on Virgin Holiday Experiences, though – I also head to Kualoa Ranch, just over an hour’s drive from the city, for a tour of the ancient fishponds and tropical gardens, where you can step right into the heart of Jurassic World territory. Getting to ‘Big Island’ entails a short 45-minute
But this island is begging to be explored. We’ve hired a car (there’s very little public transport) for a day trip to Volcanoes National Park. It’s a few hours’ drive from the hotel, but we’re rewarded with endless hikes and walks through jungles and caves. Look out for steam vents – yes, Kilauea is live, in fact it’s one of the biggest active volcanoes in the world, bubbling away since 1983 (but don’t worry, there’s little chance of it erupting without ample warning). We lunch at The Rim, overlooking the Halemaumau crater. It’s a a pinch-yourself moment. But of course, my ultimate Hawaii ‘Experience’ was the evening dip with those manta rays. That said, tucking into an ‘ahi’ fish burger the next day at Lava Lava Beach Club down the road from the Hilton, deciding which cocktail to order being my only care in the world as ukulele music sounds in my ears and the sun hugs my shoulders, comes a close second. Breathtaking encounters, unforgettable scenery and ultimate chilled beachy vibes… Aloha, Hawaii. DEEP DELIGHT Abi Jackson and fellow snorkellers see a huge white manta ray
HOW TO GET THERE ■ Virgin Holidays (www.virginholidays.co.uk
0344 557 3859) offer a 14-night trip from £2,295pp (two sharing), including flights from London Heathrow to San Francisco, with a United Airlines connection to Honolulu. Stay seven nights at Outrigger Reef on Oahu, and seven nights at Hilton Waikoloa Village on Island of Hawaii. Based on March 12, 2018 departure. ■ The Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel Experience costs from £72pp and Hawaiian Foodie Tour by Bike from £99pp. A range of other ‘Experiences’ are also available, including a two-hour surfing lesson from £69pp. For more information about Hawaii, visit www.gohawaii.com/UK
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FEATURES
Motoring
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
FIRST DRIVE:
KIA STINGER GT S WHAT IS IT? What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Kia? Most likely, it’ll be a small, reasonably-priced hatchback that’s well-built but not particularly exciting. Chances are, a 365bhp, twin-turbo V6 sports saloon would be the last thing you’d expect. However, with the new £40,495 Stinger GT S, that’s exactly what Kia has gone and built. Quite a bold move for a company that’s traditionally made cars you’re more likely to see at the local garden centre than the race track.
WHAT’S NEW? The Stinger is an all-new car for the South Korean manufacturer, as well as its first attempt at a proper performance saloon. It’s an evolution of the Kia GT Concept that was unveiled six years ago, and has been developed under the watchful eye of Albert Biermann – the former head of BMW’s M Division and the man responsible for the cracking new Hyundai i30 N hot hatchback. That development process has seen Kia’s car put through its paces, too. It saw the new ‘gran turismo’ lap the infamous and unforgiving Nurburgring Nordschleife at least 480 times, and also travel to all corners of the globe as part of its extreme climate testing. Launching a car such as the GT S could be seen as quite a risky move. It comes at a time when emissions regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, and consumers are shifting away from big, powerful saloons. It almost seems like this would be the last car a sensible
volume manufacturer such as Kia would then go and produce. Based on our first drive, though, we’re certainly pleased common sense appears to have been put to one side.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? Below that long, low bonnet sits the party piece. The top-spec GT S model is powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine that develops a considerable 365bhp and 510Nm of torque – all of which is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. That V6 allows the Stinger to complete the benchmark sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds, making it the fastestaccelerating Kia ever produced. As far as fuel consumption is concerned, Kia claims the Stinger will manage 28.5mpg on the combined cycle, while CO2 emissions stand at 225g/km.
the car with confidence. Pop the car into sport with the drive mode selector, and it becomes a bit livelier – in short, it provokes the Stinger just enough to make it the right level of angry. Move out on to a dual-carriageway or motorway, and it settles down to become a comfortable, relaxing longdistance tourer. This is where you can see the claimed ‘gran turismo’ characteristics shine through the most.
HOW DOES IT LOOK? While we’ve never really been fans of the way fastback-style cars such as the Audi A7 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe look, the Kia Stinger manages to pull the image off rather well. It’s by no means the prettiest car in the world, but it is handsome in its proportions, and that swept-back roofline really adds to its visual appeal.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
Kia is adamant the new Stinger GT S is a gran turismo and not a sports car – though you’d traditionally consider a GT to be something like an Aston Martin, with a big V8 engine. Regardless of how you define the Stinger, as a first attempt at a properly performance-orientated vehicle, it’s seriously impressive. That V6 isn’t the shoutiest or most characterful engine in the world, but it lends the Kia some real straight-line pace and means overtaking manoeuvres are dispatched with ease. Twisty roads won’t cause it to break a sweat, either. While the steering doesn’t provide a huge amount of feel, it’s nicely weighted and allows you to place
Kia has really stepped its game up as far as the Stinger’s interior is concerned. There aren’t a great deal of cheap and nasty materials on display, and the circular air vents in the middle of the dash look like they could have been lifted straight out of the cabin of a Mercedes-Benz. Interior space is generous, too. The driver and front passenger seats are treated to plenty of headroom, and they certainly won’t be short of any elbow room thanks to a fairly wide centre console. That swooping roofline does cut into rear headroom somewhat, although the 2,905mm wheelbase means there’s no shortage of legroom.
‘Pop the car into sport and it provokes the Stinger just enough to make it the right level of angry’
With a 365bhp twin-turbo V6 under the bonnet, this new saloon isn’t your average Kia. Simon Davis takes their sporty, first ‘properly performanceorientated vehicle’ out for a spin…
FACTS AT A GLANCE:
The hatchback-style boot offers 406 litres of storage capacity, meaning it can easily swallow a couple of suitcases or a large weekly shop.
MODEL: Kia Stinger GT S
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
ENGINE: 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6
At £40,495, the Stinger isn’t exactly cheap, but you do get a lot of car for your money. In addition to the performance from the 3.3-litre V6, the standard kit is also incredibly generous.All models benefit from an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system that incorporates satellite navigation, DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are also leather-upholstered seats with heating and ventilation up front, as well as a 15-speaker Harmon/Kardon sound system. A suite of safety systems that include autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist are also fitted for that added peace of mind.
POWER: 365bhp TORQUE: 510Nm MAX SPEED: 168mph 0-60MPH: 4.7 seconds MPG: 28.5 (combined) EMISSIONS: 225g/km PRICE AS TESTED: £40,495
VERDICT The Stinger GT S strikes an excellent balance between being a fast, comfortable long-distance cruiser and a properly exciting sports saloon. While it’s not quite as raucous as we’d hoped it might be, its dynamic abilities are impressive and are (hopefully) a sign of things to come from the South Korean manufacturer.
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
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Beauty
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Party season skin survival guide: 12 tips to save your face from festive excess… Stress, alcohol, lack of sleep, no time for a proper make-up removal routine – they can all have an unpleasant impact on our skin. So we asked the experts what we can do to prevent total complexion meltdown in the run-up to Christmas
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ith the fizz flowing, cheesy tunes blaring and mince pies aplenty, there’s a lot of indulgent fun to be had at the seasonal shindigs. But if you’re not careful, by December 25 your face could end up looking like a turkey that’s been left in the oven too long. “Christmas parties mean a lot of alcohol, very little sleep, and possibly smoking as well,” explains Dr Penelope Tympanidis, Consultant Dermatologist and owner of the Dermaperfect Clinic. “And as a result of wearing too much make-up (or from non-meticulous make-up removal), the results can mean puffy eyes, dark circles, dull looking skin, dehydration and spots.” But help is at hand. We asked a gang of gurus known as the Harley Street Emporium Skintellectuals for their top tips on how to protect your complexion against the ravages of party season. Here’s what they had to say…
1. TRY A RAW EGG FACE MASK To brighten dull skin, whip up a quick home-made face mask, says Dr Tympanidis. “Beat a whole egg and apply it to all areas of your face and leave until it dries. Remove it with olive or almond oil.” Egg whites contain albumin, a protein which is great for tightening pores and helping control oil production, and the yolks contain proteins and fatty acids that can help moisturise your skin.
2. SCHEDULE A FEW EARLY NIGHTS “Try and catch up on sleep in between the late nights,” says Dr Adam Friedmann from the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic. Why? “At night, the skin relaxes. It’s not under any stress, so can recuperate after a hard day. Your skin cells go into regeneration mode, replacing damaged or dead cells with new ones. When sleep is reduced, due to lots of late nights, so is the body’s ability to carry out these functions. A bare minimum of six to seven hours – but ideally nearer to eight hours – would suit.”
3. POP ON A COUPLE OF EYE MASKS For Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin55, a hydrating eye mask is a must, but she says there are some ingredients you should look out for to make sure they’re effective: “Eye masks are a good, quick, temporary fix for puffiness and dark circles, which can occur after lots of late nights. They are usually gel-like treatments,
which are formulated with hydrating and plumping ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, caffeine and colloidal gold. Must-have ingredients to look out for in eye creams include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, retinol, neuropeptides and vitamins C and E.” Skin Republic Brightening Eye Masks, £4.99 for three pairs, LookFantastic
4. MAKE A CAMOMILE COMPRESS A cheaper alternative for refreshing puffy eyes is a camomile tea bag compress, which Dr Tympanidis says is ‘great for reducing swelling and inflammation’. Make yourself a pot of this soothing tea, and once the tea bags have cooled, squeeze the excess liquid out and spend a good ten minutes or so relaxing with them on your eyes.
one’s minerals and natural oils. Eating lots of vegetables and salads will soak up the free radicals and help the look and feel of your skin.”
6. DE-STRESS NOT DISTRESS Throwing a party yourself? All that planning and prep can send your stress levels soaring. “It’s a known fact that stress and exhaustion lower the immune system and can make skin worse,” explains Dr Friedmann. “So try and take some time out for yourself and do something you know helps you relax.” Dr Rupert Critchley, founder of Viva Skin Clinics, adds: “Feeling stressed or having breakouts? Meditation and mindfulness both have a positive impact on the stresses and strains of the Christmas period. They reduce the body’s circulating stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can trigger breakouts.”
5. DON’T FORGET YOUR FIVE A DAY
7. ALWAYS REMOVE YOUR MAKE-UP THOROUGHLY
“It’s tempting to overindulge during the festive season, but try to remember to eat well in between the excess,” says Dr Friedmann. “It’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet to maintain all
It sounds obvious, but it’s not just the make-up residue that causes problems, according to Dr Friedmann. “If you haven’t removed your make-up properly, you tend to be heavier handed to try and remove stubborn make-up that’s been on the face a while. This firm wiping action can irritate the skin and encourage flare-ups,” he says. “The very act of rubbing will usually cause
Beauty
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
blood vessels to dilate, causing redness. The under-eye area especially is very delicate, so you want to avoid harsh rubbing there. When removing mascara and eye make-up, it’s best to gently place a cotton ball with remover over your lid and hold it there for a few seconds to help dissolve the product before wiping it away.” Eucerin DermoPurifyer Miccellar Water, £9.50, Boots
8. GO EASY ON THE BOOZE “Excess alcohol consumption can cause blood vessel dilatation, which can make the face look quite red. This is because alcohol dilates the blood vessels and increases the cardiac output, so that everything gets redder,” says Dr Friedmann. “Anyone who already has skin disease (such as dermatitis or psoriasis) will often notice it worsening.” So on the nights you haven’t got a party in the diary, stay off the sauce and quaff plenty of water or herbal teas to rehydrate.
9. UP YOUR ANTIOXIDANTS Give your seasonal tipple a virtuous twist with an antioxidant-rich ingredient. “Add a teaspoon of organic matcha green tea powder to your festive gin and tonic,” Dr Critchley suggests. “It takes mere seconds, but it will give you a potent antioxidant boost, which protects the skin from free radicals.”
11. WATCH YOUR WATER INTAKE “Try and switch over to water or a soft drink in between alcoholic beverages, and pace yourself, as alcohol can cause dehydration of the skin and lead to facial bloating,” Dr Critchley recommends. Dr Tympanidis adds: “As well as drinking lots of water, have some citrus juices to help keep your antioxidant levels up. The water will help keep your skin looking plumper, while the vitamins in the juice will help combat the damage caused by free radicals that can age our skin.”
12. SLAP ON THE SUNSCREEN “Don’t forget your sunscreen – even if it is cold and grey outside,” insists Dr Mahto. “Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer and should be worn throughout the year, as there is still damaging ultraviolet radiation around. Sunscreen should be offering protection against UVA and UVB, and at least SPF 15. Regular sunscreen use will help prevent against skin cancer and premature ageing.” Murad City Skin SPF 50, £45
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Life & Style
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
BRINGING THE SPARKLE TO CHRISTMAS Gabriella’s Jewellers is celebrating their first birthday this month with an exclusive 30% off selected items for a limited time during the festive period. Exclusive to Gabriella’s in Chapel Place, Richard Burrell, the Managing Director, is keen to remind people that he left his old Royal Victoria Place premise back in 2014 and is now fully invested in Gabriella’s – named after his daughter, Gabriella Taylor, who returned from New Zealand about a year ago. Richard Burrell also has trusted manager Matt Delves as well as Master Jeweller David Markey on board, capable of designing and making fine jewellery and bespoke commissions. Between them they provide an in-house 48 hour repair service alongside their combined 100 years of jewellery experience.
LYMPHLINE FUNDRAISING STORY This year’s Firefly Properties Charity Golf Day was at Dale Hill Golf & Country Club. Their nominated charity was The Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN). Chris and Carol Prier are Directors of Firefly Properties (Paddock Wood) and good friends of Trustee Matt Hazledine and his wife Vicki. They were thrilled to support the LSN, with all profits from the golf day going to the charity.
As well as the repair service and a wide range of jewellery, customers can also benefit from a battery replacement service and pressure testing.
The day was supported by local businesses of all sizes, from Land Rover, Porsche and Waitrose to Independent Pension Specialists, Goodwin Pest Management and Crabtree Consulting.
They are able to offer the same brilliant service as before but at the new location in Chapel Place. To find out more or to take advantage of one of the festive deals, visit www.gabriellajewellery.co.uk All offers are exclusive to Gabriella’s in Chapel Place.
Firefly Properties were absolutely thrilled to announce that the total amount raised, of which 100% is donated to the LSN, was an amazing £8,106.00. Matt Hazledine and the LSN would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to the Firefly Properties team for all their continued support and for the incredible amount raised at the golf day. People are amazing!
REGULAR EYE CHECKS ARE VITALLY IMPORTANT FOR ALL OVER THE AGE OF 50!
DECEMBER 3RD RTWSO AT THE ASSEMBLY HALL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS 3PM Alexandra Wood, our violin soloist for this concert will be familiar to RTWSO audiences, having made several recent appearances in Tunbridge Wells. She will be playing Tchaikovsky’s ever-popular Violin Concerto: one of the best known yet most technically demanding concertos for the violin. She has won prizes at a number of international violin competitions and her dazzling virtuosity has been noted in many concert reviews. To open the concert we are including Borodin’s exciting Prince Igor overture, full of Oriental colours and memorable melodies. Performances of Victor Hely-Hutchinson’s Carol Symphony are unfortunately fairly rare nowadays but it is an appropriate piece to include in a concert during the lead up to Christmas. Its four movements have themes based on familiar Christmas carols, transformed with consummate musical skill into a delightful yet cleverly constructed symphony. Conductor: Roderick Dunk
Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2LU 01892 530613 | www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that causes painless loss of central vision and is most common in people over the age of 50. AMD currently affects more than 600,000 people in the UK and is the leading cause of vision loss in the developed world. It is estimated that at least 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 have some signs of AMD and that its incidence will continue to increase to almost 700,000 people in the UK by 2020, due to longer life expectancy and dietary changes. Early symptoms of AMD may include difficulty in reading, difficulty in recognizing people’s faces and distortions in the central vision. Miss Lucia Pelosini, MD FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the Centre for Sight and Ophthalmology Lead Clinician at East Surrey Hospital has published innovative research on retinal imaging and says “We are extremely lucky to be able to offer these new treatments for AMD, however the early detection of wet AMD always results in better preservation of sight and reduces the risk of permanent damage to the eye.” It is crucial to diagnose and treat AMD as early as possible to prevent irreversible loss of central vision. It is also recommended that first-degree relatives of AMD patients monitor their eye health on a regular basis with simple non-invasive tests.
If you have any questions, call Centre for Sight 01342 306020 or email enquiries@centreforsight.com
FUNUSUAL GIFTS IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! The festive season is rapidly approaching, and the time to find that perfect present is running out. Take a breath before you go completely crackers, because Drusillas Park in East Sussex has the solution to all of your shopping woes! Ideal for any gift occasion, Drusillas’ Keeper for the Day scheme is a unique treat for anyone who is mad about animals. Working side by side with one of the zoo team for a whole day, you can get nose to nose with nature as you feed, clean and care for a variety of furry and feathered friends. For a shorter and sweeter look into zoo life, Drusilla’s’ Close Encounter experiences provide an amazing opportunity to meet some of the zoo’s most popular residents. You can have a picnic with a panda, take lunch with the lemurs, meet the meerkats, sip tea with the racoons, or even feed the penguins. For those who are feeling brave there is also the chance to snuggle up to a snake and tickle a tarantula! Still not sure what to get? For all year around enjoyment, Drusillas Club Membership may be just the ticket. This offers access to the Zoo, Playland and rides for 362 days of the year. Gift Vouchers can also be purchased and redeemed against any one of the Drusillas Park experiences.
Located just off the A27 in Alfriston, Drusillas Park is open daily from 10am. For more information, please telephone 01323 874100 or visit www.drusillas.co.uk
Puzzles
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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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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.
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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
B U T T ON A R N N E A R S J F T O F F A V I G A R C H E R N T A I WA N I S GO L I A T U E N A N S ON
S S E K I N I Z E R A D G U H N E S E X Q H U A A M E L
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9 1 8 2 5 3 6 4 7
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Sudoku:
8 4 3 7 2 5 9 6 1
2 7 9 1 3 6 4 5 8
1 5 6 8 9 4 7 2 3
3 2 4 9 6 7 1 8 5
4 8 7 6 1 2 5 3 9
6 3 2 5 7 9 8 1 4
Jigsaw Sudoku:
1 9 8 2 6 4 7 3 5
7 5 3 4 2 6 1 8 9
6 4 5 7 3 1 2 9 8
5 6 9 8 1 7 3 2 4
3 1 2 6 9 8 4 5 7
2 8 1 9 4 3 5 7 6
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
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DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★II
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS
DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★★
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SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
CODEWORD
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NEWS
Recruitment
Wednesday October 25 | 2017
FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY WITH THE
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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
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Fill your vacancy now in print or online For more information contact our commercial team on 01892 779 650
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Arts & Culture
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Classical musical appreciation is simply child’s play As the youthful West Kent musical group Kidenza fine tunes its next performance, Eileen Leahy spoke to its founder, Claire Lambert, about how she discovered a need to introduce children to symphonies and sonatas Can you give us a potted history of Kidenza? Back in 2004, while running the toddlers’ music group Jo Jingles, I organised a charity orchestral concert of Peter and the Wolf. It was a total sellout, and it became obvious that there was a demand for fun, unstuffy classical concerts for young children and their families. In 2009, after several years of planning, Kidenza: Classical Concerts for Kids, was born. Our vision is to immerse every child into the world of live classical music so that it becomes a natural part of their life.
West Sussex, Berkshire and Essex. We also perform family concerts around Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Horsham.
How do most little ones in the audience react, or does it vary with each concert? They’re usually spellbound. We get asked all the time whether our concerts are appropriate for really little children. Parents initially worry about their child being disruptive, but we very rarely see that. There’s so much going on, and as we believe in a multi-sensory experience, there’s often a large screen with animation, too. Our musicians are fun, and sometimes even a bit mischievous, and there are lots of opportunities to join in.
How do you recruit your orchestra members and decide upon each show’s theme? We usually recruit new members through contacts and recommendations by our core performers. We have a very loyal and talented team, who are not only amazing performers but also fun, and the children think they’re cool. I work very closely with our two conductors, Steve Dummer and Stevie Higgins, in planning future concerts. We’re never stuck for ideas, and have great fun thinking of themes that will be interesting as well as educational. There’s so much exciting music out there and we all have very vivid imaginations!
Are there any favourite pieces or composers you can cite that you’ve used? Well, that’s an interesting question. We always plan our programmes so that there are wellknown pieces as well as some more unusual ones. But when you ask the audience which was their favourite, they will often say the latter. We’ve played traditional works such as Night on a Bare Mountain, the 1812 Overture (where we
What are the most memorable moments since you launched Kidenza? Every concert is memorable, but if I had to choose one it would be when we performed the BBC Ten Pieces in Bath Abbey to 1,500 children throughout the day and evening. It was such an emotional day with standing ovations every time – definitely tricky to hold back the tears!
HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE: The Kidenza orchestra entertains had children from the audience playing the tubular bells) and Thunder and Lightning Polka, as well as more contemporary pieces, such as Short Ride in a Fast Machine, and music from around the world featuring African drumming and even a didgeridoo. Of course, film music such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Star Wars are always popular. And I must mention
Hedwig’s Theme from Harry Potter, because our percussionist, Alex Neal from the BBC Symphony Orchestra – aka Naughty Alex – is always trying to sneak it in when we’re not expecting it! How often do you tour, and whereabouts? We tour schools every year. We started touring just in Kent, but in 2018 we’ll also be in East and
What’s next for Kidenza? Our Christmas Concerts, including a world premiere of a new story of Peter and the Wolf and some songs from Beauty and the Beast. In 2018, as champions for the BBC, we shall be performing the BBC Ten Pieces III to thousands of
Arts & Culture
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
schoolchildren in Kent, Sussex, Essex and Berkshire. Touring starts in February, and we will also be performing at The Mayfield Music Festival in April. We are already well into planning our 2019 tour, which is going to be a blockbuster! The next Kidenza concert will be at Sevenoaks School on December 17 at 2pm and 4pm, where A Musical Feast with a Wolf and a Beast will be performed. To book tickets, visit www.kidenza.co.uk
Five good reasons to bring classical music to children 1. Classical music has a reputation of being stuffy. We absolutely smash that to bits! Our concerts are funny, interactive, educational and never stuffy. By introducing children to fun classical concerts, we hope they will grow up with a positive attitude to classical music. We find 99 per cent of schoolchildren attending our concerts want to go to another one, and 100 per cent of teachers would recommend our concerts and want to come again. 2. Classical music is good for the soul. It can be calming and mood-enhancing and great for busting stress. Far better for children to chill out by listening to some classical music than to be playing computer games all the time. 3. We talk about what to listen for at our concerts. Listening skills are vital for successful learning. 4. We want to inspire tomorrow’s young musicians. 5. Playing a musical instrument not only improves your child’s mental and social abilities, but also has been shown to help with many other areas of the curriculum.
Poetic tribute This week, Lindsey O’Neill publishes some of her late mother Celia’s poems. She tells the Times why making them public was such a dream for them both MY MUM passed away in May 2016 leaving behind her a large volume of both poetry and works of fiction. She had always been a writer, and had some of her poetry published in various anthologies during her lifetime, but had not succeeded with having her novels published. Although she wrote for the sheer joy of it, she had always wanted to get her fiction published, and she always put her all into her work. She always read widely, which helped inform her writing and was reflected in the wide range of interests shown in her poetry collection. She read a lot of Shakespeare and loved DH Lawrence’s poetry and the war poets, such as Siegfried Sassoon.
Complexity She particularly loved books with elements of horror by writers such as HG Wells, Franz Kafka and Robert Louis Stevenson. I remember her saying Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde was her favourite book. She also loved whodunnits, so enjoyed the works of Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle, and she loved history, reading a lot of historical novels by the likes of Philippa Gregory and Sir Walter Scott. And I remember her talking about a book she said had made a real impression on her when she was younger, and that was The Once and Future King by T H White. I would describe my mother’s writing as a real mix of comedy and existential thoughts. The books that seemed to influence her the most were
MOTHER LOVE Lindsey is championing her mum
those which looked at the complexity of people’s personalities being both light and dark. Most of the poems she wrote were just expressions of her observing things in the world around her, so they are a great insight into her mind. It is unthinkable for me not to pursue her dream of sharing her work, so since her death I have been working on getting a book of her poetry published and hope that more of her writing will be published in the years to come. After sending off some samples of her poems to various publishing houses, it was Augur Press who took a real interest. The publishing house is one that specialises in works that ‘enable the reader to reflect and to look beyond or behind that which is immediately apparent’. They sifted through her hundreds of poems and made a selection, which has been made into ‘The Poet’s Eye’, which is being published on Thursday this week.
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The publishers chose the title. It’s the name of one of the poems included, and was chosen as it sums up the overarching theme that binds the poems the publishers selected together, looking at different aspects of life from the perspective of a deeply reflective person. My father Dermot and brother Patrick were also instrumental in helping me put the book together. Sadly, my mum Celia died in tragic circumstances. She was killed in a transport incident during a severe mental health episode. My mother was desperate for her family to be happy, and she was a joyful person and someone with a huge zest and passion for life. As such, we are able to focus on what she created, giving mum her voice back and sharing her work with others. We hope they can take comfort, have a laugh and think deeply by glimpsing the little golden pieces of her soul she left behind in her words. The Poet’s Eye will be published by Augur Press tomorrow [Thursday November 30], and is available to order on Amazon either in paperback or on Kindle using the following number: ISBN 978-1-911229-02-5 – or via www.augurpress.com THE PEOPLE I NEVER KNEW by Celia O’Neill I find I just can’t forget The people I never met. Faces I can never know, But oh how you haunt me so! Why does a higher Providence decree That some encounters are never to be? Kindred spirits who can take no pleasure In what they know not and cannot measure. When my life is nearly through, And its well-known pleasures but fleeting and few, I’ll think about the people I never knew, Was that perhaps me and you?
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What’s On
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
SEVEN DAYS OF SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AT A GLANCE
WHATS ON WITH THE
Eileen Leahy Local events
>> WEDNESDAY The Bring Your Own Baby Comedy Club pitches up at The Plough in Leigh today from midday. The club is the only one in the UK which allows tired parents to kick back and enjoy an afternoon of banter from stand-up comedians while under-ones play on the soft flooring with toys provided. Today’s giggles come courtesy of Jess Fostekew, Alyssa Kyria and Mary Bourke. See www.byobcomedy.com That Christmas ballet staple The Nutcracker comes to the Assembly Hall this evening at 7.30pm. Staged by The Russian State Ballet and Opera House, this Tchaikovsky classic features a live orchestra with over 30 musicians. Tickets cost from £33 each. If you haven’t started your Christmas shopping yet then tonight’s the night to start thanks to The Christmas Collective II, which is happening at The Spa Hotel from 6pm until 9.30pm. Shoppers can enjoy a glass of fizz while browsing the offerings from some of the area’s best independent retailers. Entry costs £2 and all proceeds will go to TaylorMade Dreams and The Pickering Smile Fund.
If you would like to see your events featured in our weekly What’s On pages, please email: eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
From 5.30pm at the Assembly Hall, there’s the Big Christmas sing happening, which sees over 200 East Sussex primary school pupils taking part in a feelgood festive event. Tickets cost £7 for adults and £3.50 for children. For further information, visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Tonight also sees the switch-on of Mayfield’s Christmas lights, and their big late-night shopping event from 5pm-8pm. The High Street outlets will be offering drinks and nibbles as well as showing off their Christmas ranges. You can also enjoy carols performed by local choirs, the Mayfield Band and others, and a sighting of Father Christmas! FULL STEAM AHEAD Santa rides the Spa Valley Railway NK and Born at Dawn. Tickets cost £35 plus £1.95 booking fee from www.billetto.co.uk Vittle and Swig on Camden Road host their final comedy night of 2017 from 8.30pm. The stand-ups are headliner Carey Marx with support from Carly Smallman. Tickets cost £10 on the door.
>> THURSDAY Another day, another festive shopping spree! This >> FRIDAY time it’s the Country Lifestyle Fair which is on at Also entering into the spirit of all things festive Hotel du Vin today and is St George’s nursery and preschool, who tomorrow from 10am to are hosting their Christmas Fair today. All 4pm, with over 50 money raised will help to fund new toys exhibitors. and equipment and develop the garden. Entrance is £4, It runs from 3.15pm to 6.30pm with a with proceeds raffle at 5.30. going to South Tonight, Downs Riding for The Dad Pack the Disabled. return to Trinity If you’re a fashion for another and beauty fan, successful make sure you visit show inspired One Warwick Park, by the Rat Pack. where popular local This time they bloggers Victoria have a live rock and Genevieve and roll band and two Pascale Banks will additional West End be hosting an vocalists taking part. Tickets exclusive evening of cost £18 for adults and £13 for ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR style and beauty in children. Call 01892 678678 or At St George’s nursery association with Space visit www.trinitytheatre.net
>> SATURDAY Another RNLI fundraising event is on in Tunbridge Wells today from 10am, so head on down to The Range where collectors will be present to accept your monetary donations. Paddock Wood Library will be hosting a Fun Day from 10.30am until 1pm. Free activities include Christmas card-making, balloon modelling and a seasonal poetry workshop. For details call 03000 413131 or email: paddockwoodlibrary@kent.gov.uk Trinity’s Christmas Comedy Café kicks off this evening and runs on selected dates until December 9. Tonight sees Mark Maier and Tom Lucy taking to the stage. £16 gives you a ticket and also a turkey-and-all-the-trimmings dinner to enjoy, too!
>> SUNDAY This is the final day to catch the Everest and Norton exhibition at Trinity Theatre’s gallery. The two watercolour artists specialise in painting both local and more exotic scenes, inspired by their independent travels. The show is free and open from 10am to 10pm. Groombridge Place launches its Merry Elfmas this weekend, which promises to provide lots of festive fun for all the family thanks to Santa letter-writing workshops and Christmas crafting sessions with the elves. For tickets and timings, visit www.groombridgeplace.com This weekend also sees the start of the Spa Valley Railway’s special Santa Weekends, which run until December 24. Board at Eridge and enjoy some roasted chestnuts as you travel through the stunning Wealden countryside while children have their faces painted. Tickets cost £16 per adult and £14 per child. See www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk
PICK OF THE WEEK
The Magnolia Tree Group
Friday December 1 Salomons 10.30am – 12.30pm The Magnolia Tree Group was set up earlier this year to support women going through difficult times, whether it be illness, bereavement or depression, with the aim of improving their self-confidence. The group’s name reflects its ethos of encouraging strong roots which grow and branch out and eventually blossom. Meetings are held twice a month at Salomons in Southborough and Burrswood at Groombridge. Female visitors are treated to a morning’s pampering and entrance is free, but a donation towards coffee is welcomed. To find out more and book your place, call Rachel on 07710667921 or Tracey on 07857 559627. ATTENTION! Another C&T auction is on Tuesday
What’s On
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Paul Dunton Live music
>> MONDAY Ice skating continues in Calverley Grounds every day until Christmas, with special 30 minutes toddler sessions at 9.45am and 10.15am. Tickets cost £9.50 for an adult and toddler aged between two and three years old. For further information, visit www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com
The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… www.paulduntonandguests.com
>> TUESDAY The Spa Hotel will be hosting another C&T Auction from 10am. Today’s theme is collectable toys and figurines. Viewing will be available from 8.30am and through the sale. www.candtauctions.co.uk
TALENTED TRIO See the Dad Pack perform at Trinity
Matt Bridle
WEDNESDAY Oscar Roche, Issey, Kirsti Robinson, Storm Engine THURSDAY Aaric Snook, Niamh McSmith, Charlie Rivers, Sean de Burca FRIDAY The Groove Agents SATURDAY Christmas Party with Project 5 SUNDAY Imy Lawrie TUESDAY Alice Rose
Sussex Mews, The Pantiles Open all day, music from 8.30pm till late Music cover charge may apply THE KING WILLIAM IV
Pembury, open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late
SATURDAY Badflys THE ROYAL OAK
Prospect Road, open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late
The Ice Rink, Calverley Grounds 6.30pm onwards (no admission charge for music)
THE ASSEMBLY HALL
THE SUSSEX ARMS BASEMENT
FRIDAY Heyzeus, Jelly Fish, Black Gabanza
THE FORUM WINTER SESSIONS
Crescent Road, for all event information and tickets visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
THE MASONIC CENTRE
St John’s Road. Information on times and tickets at www.twjazzclub.co.uk
FRIDAY TW Jazz Club: The Crooktown Jazz Band
The Pantiles, doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites www.pdag.co.uk + www.thegreylady.co.uk
THURSDAY Basement Cat, The Ackerleys, Paul Crisp SUNDAY Heyzeus, Ukelear Fallout
SATURDAY Shine THE BEDFORD
THE BULL INN
2 Highstreet, open all day, free entry, more information at www.thebedfordtw.co.uk
Frant Road, open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm onwards
SATURDAY Jason Lines
SATURDAY Holly Fraser
THE BEAU NASH TAVERN
THE PUNCH & JUDY
FRIDAY (5.30pm) The Big Christmas Sing FRIDAY (7.30pm) Music From The Heart SUNDAY (3pm) Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra [RTWSO] with soloist Alexandra Wood
Mount Ephraim, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late
St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm till late
TRINITY THEATRE
SCALLYWAG
Church Road, event information and tickets at www.trinitytheatre.net
45 Mount Ephraim, open all day, music from 8.30pm till late. Music cover charge may apply. More information at www.scallywagcafe.co.uk
FRIDAY Christmas With The Dad Pack
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FRIDAY Dom Pipkin’s Smokin’ Boogie Show SATURDAY Champagne Charlie & The Bubbly Boys (Gatsby Theme) TUESDAY Swing Dance Studio
THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE
ON TREND The Country Lifestyle Fair
FEATURES
SATURDAY Matt Bridle SUNDAY Open Mic Night
TUESDAY Ron Trueman Border & The Strangers TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB
The Flying Dutchman Pub, Hildenborough. Free entry Music 8-11pm, hat collection (£7 recommended) Full details at www.tonbridgefolkclub.org
MONDAY Nick Dow
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Sporting Times
CONTACT US:
Please send your sports stories to newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Back to back wins for Angels
SIGN UP FOR TRIALS TO JOIN NEW TONBRIDGE ANGELS ACADEMY
Tonbridge Angels 2 Thurrock 1 By James Rowe FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS recorded back to back league victories for only the second time this season against a Thurrock side who remain without a single point on the road in Bostik League Premier. Nathan Elder skimmed the bar with a header in the seventh minute and Alex Akrofi rounded keeper Jake Jessup but could not finish from a narrow angle. Tonbridge were dominant but
it took until the 42nd minute for them to take the lead. A free kick from Joe Turner was fumbled by Jessup and Nathan Elder was on hand to fire the loose ball home.
Surprise Tonbridge scored again six minutes into the second half. Jack Parter’s low cross into the danger area saw Akrofi get in front of his marker to slot the ball past Jessup. The Tonbridge defence was superbly marshalled by Sonny
TONBRIDGE ANGELS are holding open trials at Longmead Stadium this evening [November 29] from 6.30-8.30pm for year 11 and 12 students. All those who come along will be able to try out the latest Nike football boots. The club is forming an Academy at the start of the 2018-19 season for students who have completed their GCSEs and want to further their academic qualifications while honing their footballing skills. The stars of the future will be coached by Jamie Coyle, the manager of the Conference
Miles and Craig Stone and no real chances were created by Thurrock. It was something of a surprise when Lewwis Spence rose highest at the far post to head home a free kick for a late consolation in stoppage time. Angels manager Steve McKimm said: “I’m very pleased with the result, the three points and the way my players performed this evening. “Thurrock threw a bit at us in the last 10 minutes or so but we dealt with virtually all of it.”
RISING TALENT Jack Harris heads against the crossbar
Youth Alliance squad, and first team player-manager at Welling United in the National League South. Angels captain Tom Parkinson will also be coaching the boys. He currently manages the Kent Academy squad. Academy players will be able to study for A levels, Level 3 Sport BTEC and FA Level 1 and 2 coaching badges. They train every day and also compete in FA Youth Cup and National Under-19 League, and will play at Longmead stadium. Steve Churcher, Chairman of Tonbridge Angels said: “This is an important moment in the
development of the Angels as a community based club. “The infrastructure is in place, the personnel to run the Academy – two well respected Kent footballing people with UEFA A Licence qualifications – are ready to go, and a renowned educational establishment has backed the initiative.” Liam Smith, Callum AdonisTaylor, Dom Welsh and TashiJay Kwayie are all former youth players who are now members of the first-team squad. For more information, email tafcacademy@outlook.com or visit https://form.jotformeu. com/72962217180355
Spackman strike sinks high-flying Sevenoaks Tunbridge Wells 1 Sevenoaks Town 0 By Scott Bartlett
FOOTBALL: TUNBRIDGE WELLS produced one of their best performances of the season to beat local rivals Sevenoaks Town with a well taken goal from inspirational player Perry Spackman. The result takes Wells into the last eight of the Kent Senior Trophy. After the goalkeeping debacle against Whitstable last week – which saw coach Michal Czanner between the sticks and
then having to go off injured with outfield player Tom Davey being forced to deputise – new signing Jack Bradshaw went straight into the side. Sevenoaks looked like a team full of confidence with only one defeat in all competitions so far this season. Wells gradually came into the game and came close when Jack Harris’s header rattled the Sevenoaks crossbar. The home side should have taken the lead when young Tommy Lawrence put in a pinpoint cross that was met with a strong header from Harris but the Sevenoaks keeper but he pulled off an instinctive save. Tunbridge Wells eventually opened the
scoring after a well worked corner was scrambled off of the goalline only as far as the edge of the penalty area, where Spackman was waiting to rifle a left-footed shot into the bottom left corner. Joe Nwoko went close near the end of the first half, and on 55 minutes an angled shot from Steven Ita went agonisingly close. Sevenoaks worked hard to get back into the game but could not find a way through the commanding central defensive partnership of Davey and Spackman. Tunbridge Wells’ next game is at home to Beckenham Town in the Southern Counties East Premier Division on Tuesday December 5 [7.45pm kick-off].
Fourth straight defeat leaves Rusthall near drop zone By Richard Smith FOOTBALL: THE Rustics slipped to their fourth consecutive defeat and need to start picking up points if they are to avoid a relegation battle in Southern Counties East Premier Division. Rusthall created much more than the visitors but were guilty of squandering their many chances.
Rebound The home side took the lead on the stroke of half-time when striker Steve Smith saw his shot superbly saved by Bearsted keeper Scott Andrews but Jon Sebbar curled the rebound into the top left hand corner for his first goal of the season. The game ultimately turned in a 60-second passage of play early in the second half.
On 48 minutes a superb build-up and exchange of passes between Steve Smith and Joe Fuller put the latter through but Andrews made the save. From his long clearance Rusthall failed to deal with the first bounce and Bearsted’s lively striker Constantine Scarlat was gifted an easy chance to equalise. Rusthall bounced back from this setback and Steve Smith went close twice but was thwarted by Andrews. On 68 minutes the home defence was caught out again by the pacey front two of Bearsted and Lucian Scarlat put the visitors in front with a superb goal. The Rustics received a setback in midweek when injured striker Danny Powell attempted a come back for the reserves in midweek but broke down again after just five minutes. The club now lie 17th out of 20 and the next game is crucial. They visit second-from-bottom Rochester United on Saturday [December 2, kick-off 3pm].
OFF THE MARK Jon Sebbar scores his first goal of the season
PHOTO: Brendan Kemp
Rusthall 1 Bearsted 2
Sporting Times
Wednesday November 29 | 2017
Guye-Johnson is named national talent of the year By Andy Tong SWIMMING:
ANNABEL GUYE-JOHNSON of Royal Tunbridge Wells Monson Swimming Club has been recognised as England Talent Athlete of the Year for swimming at Swim England National Awards at the University of Birmingham. The national governing body said she swam ‘an incredible race’ in the 200m breaststroke at the World
Junior Championships, claiming bronze with a personal best [PB]. Annabel said: “It all started in April of this year really, when I was selected for the Worl d Junior Championships in Indianapolis. “I was entered into all three breaststroke events and came away with bronze in the 200m. It was a three-second PB.” She explained her success by saying: “I think because there was less pressure as it wasn’t my main
MAKE A SPLASH Annabel (right) receives her award from double Olympian Ellie Faulkner event, I enjoyed it and came away with a medal.” Annabel recorded a time of 2min 27.42sec to touch third in a thrilling final, just 0.25 seconds ahead of Ireland’s Mona McSharry. At the awards ceremony she was
asked how the climax of the race went, and revealed: “I couldn’t really see the field that well but I did have a feeling that I was in with a shout. “But going down the last length I said to myself I don’t mind how much this hurts, it will be an amazing thing. I remember touching, turning round, looking at the board and thinking, I can’t believe this is happening. She also attended an international camp in Marseille as part of the England Talent Phase Three group, where she ‘performed with distinction’ according to the judges. Now the 17-year-old is looking forward to trials for Commonwealth Games next month.
Earle and Doherty crown superb display Sidcup 26 Tunbridge Wells 48
RUGBY: AFTER three successive defeats, Tunbridge Wells produced their strongest all-round performance of their first campaign in London & South-East Premier Division at local rivals Sidcup. A deft pass by Blaise Salle popped Christian Earle into space and the forward galloped 15 metres to the posts for a try converted by Frank Reynolds on six minutes. Reynolds, who was returning after injury, extended the lead with a penalty kick but Sidcup’s Josh Twyford replied in kind from 35 metres. Shaydn Osgood beat two men and fed Nick Doherty to score a try under the posts, Reynolds converting.
Twyford slotted two more penalties for a series of breakdown infringements as half-time approached. In first-half stoppage time Earle powered over for his second try from a lineout, and with Reynolds’ conversion Wells went in 24-9 ahead. Two minutes into the second half Max Douch gathered Owain Withers’ hack upfield and was halted just short of the line. But quick recycling saw Dave Allen crashed over to secure the try bonus point. Full-back Ryan Taylor-Dennehy fielded a kick on his 10 metre line and broke past four opponents to sprint for a superb individual try. A strong rolling maul saw James Poland dot down for the hosts, and on the hour forward Luke Coughlan broke two weak tackles to cross
home the advantage. Barnstaple managed to turn ball over at crucial moments and scored twice from five-metre line-outs, the pack rumbling
RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS travelled to north Devon hoping to reverse the result of the play-off match at The Slade in May 2016 when won 31-30 with the last kick of the match. The game started untidily amid a heavy icy shower. The hosts scored an early try and after an exchange of penalties TJs went in 10-3 behind at half-time. TJs were grateful that despite Barnstaple’s possession and physicality they had only conceded one try. At the start of the second half the hosts had a man sent to the sin bin but TJs could not press
PHOTO: Adam Hookway
By Adam Hookway
HARD YARDS Barnstaple were tough opponents
Allberry’s strike is cancelled out Tunbridge Wells Men 1 Tulse Hill & Dulwich 1 By Francis Bridgeman HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Men stuttered to a draw against a workmanlike Tulse Hill & Dulwich side at Tonbridge School last Saturday. The home side took the lead through a trademark Ben Allberry reverse shot. But some sloppy defending put a visiting forward one on one with James Harris in the Wells goal and a fortunate bobble allowed the ball to sneak in. So Wells dropped points for only the second time this season. But they remain six points clear at the top of South Premier League Division Two. In the league they travel to Banbury on Saturday [December 2] before a tough cup game the next day against the holders Blackheath in the England Hockey Tier Two Championships at Tonbridge School [12.45pm start].
Tunbridge Wells Ladies 3 Folkestone 0
under the posts. With Twyford’s conversion the score was now 21-36. Sidcup lost a man to the sin bin and the visitors opted for a scrum at the scrum and marched their opponents back for No 8 Nick Doherty to secure his second try.
Physical Barnstaple hurt TJs Barnstaple 22 Tonbridge Juddians 3
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Wilson double gives Ladies strong victory PHOTO: Bruce Elliott
By Graham Withers
FLYING TACKLE Powerful defensive work from Shaydn Osgood
NEWS
over and then their scrum-half sniping for the second. It was a disappointing display by TJs, who drop to 10th place. Next they entertain Wimbledon at The Slade on Saturday [December 2, kick-off 2.30 pm].
Osgood burst down the blind-side to feed Taylor-Dennehy, who coasted 0ver the line. Sidcup scored a consolation try in the final play. Wells move back up to seventh, and now host fifth-placed Westcliff on Saturday [December 2, kick-off 2pm].
HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS started strongly against Folkestone at Hawkenbury, dominating the game and distributing the ball well. After 10 minutes a strong build up allowed Annie Wilson to flick the ball into the back of the net. Ali Playle’s heroics in the home goal kept out some incisive play from the visitors. Player of the match Jen Hunt buried a short corner into the bottom right hand corner. And Wells made it three when Wilson notched her second with a deflection off Perdi Knight’s strike.