Times of Tunbridge Wells 8th January 2020

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

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‘Time for excuses is over’ say Councils as they issue fine to joint waste contractor By Robert Forrester TUNBRIDGE WELLS and Tonbridge & Malling borough councils have fined Urbaser over its failings in handling the new waste contract. Chief Executive of Tonbridge & Malling Council, Julie Beilby, has written an open letter on behalf of both authorities to the Managing Director of the waste contractor, Javier Peiro. In it she says the ‘time for excuses and apologies was over’ and told Mr Peiro that they would be triggering a penalty clause in the contract following hundreds of complaints from residents about missed bin collections and poor service in both the boroughs. Urbaser took over bin collections for both councils earlier this year in a joint deal worth around £3million.

County Hall gets extra funding but Council Tax will have to rise By Richard Williams KENT County Council [KCC] has unveiled its budget for 2020-2021, and despite extra funding from Central Government, Council Tax will still have to rise. It is the first budget under new Conservative Leader Roger Gough, who has pledged to spend more than £1billion on public services from April 2020, and will also spend nearly £1billion more over the next three years on the county’s infrastructure. County Hall says after a decade of austerity, it has received an additional £28.6million from Central Government

– the first grant rise in ten years – which ‘represents a significant shift from the very challenging budgets of the past ten years’. But taxpayers will still see their Council Tax bills increase by 4 per cent in April 2020, adding nearly £50 to annual payments - or 89p a week. The government now provides around £620million in grants to fund the council, but around half of KCC’s budget for next year - £749million – will come from taxpayers. The extra funding, along with £34million from savings and other income, has allowed KCC to increase spending on day to day services by

£68million for 2020. County Hall will now spend more than £1billion of its £1.6billion budget on services for the county. NEW KCC LEADER Sevenoaks North & Darent Valley Councillor Roger Gough

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Complaints From September 30, residents have been able to recycle glass and food waste as well as opt for a paid-for garden waste collection service. But three months on, and householders have been complaining that bins are still getting missed and that the general service has been poor. In her open letter, Ms Beilby says the two councils wished to ‘express our deep frustration with the poor waste collection service Urbaser is providing for our residents’. She continued: “We always appreciated that the new waste partnership scheme would take some time to bed in and that some teething problems were to be expected. “However, we are now three months into the new arrangements and neither

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Why separation and divorce can be a civilised affair If you are experiencing the anxiety and loss of a relationship ending and suffering sleepless nights worrying about the future, you are not alone. ALMOST 50% of all marriages end in divorce and for many, it can be the most traumatic time in their lives. Months and sometimes years are spent deciding whether to separate and then, when the decision has been made, it can take an age to pluck up the courage to take action. Emotions run high and delays are usually down to fear of the unknown and what life will be like after the separation, not to mention how you’ll cope financially and what you’ll tell the kids. The truth is there is no easy way out. However, the actions you take now and the choices you make will have a big impact on your new life. Your future is in your hands. You can choose to be reactive to your situation or you can be proactive and take the lead and put a stop to the fighting, anger and hurt. Divorce and separation is a life changing event and mistakes can be costly both emotionally and financially and you must be prepared to invest to secure your future. To take control you need information and advice from an experienced and trusted advisor, which will allow you to make informed decisions about your future. Our dedicated team at Keene Marsland is hand picked for their experience working with people who are going through a relationship breakdown. They are all members of Resolution, which means that they have the legal experience required to give you the best advice, and are committed to solving your problem in a conciliatory way if possible – saving you the emotional drain of the legal court battle and the legal fees that go with it. They understand the emotional pressure

and stress you are going through and they can help ease the pain. We work closely with leading family barristers and other specialists and together we will work with you to achieve the best outcome possible for you to move on with your life. Our service is confidential, discreet and bespoke to you. For a limited period, I am offering a

selected number of potential clients an opportunity to meet with one of my family solicitors for a free initial consultation to discuss the options available. Due to high demand my team are only able to offer 20 appointments this month and I know that the appointments will book up very quickly. Choosing the right legal team is key to

your emotional and financial future so apply today to see how we can help you achieve the outcome you want. For further information, and to apply for a FREE CONSULTATION, call us at Keene Marsland on 01892 526442 or email us at enquiries@keenemarsland.co.uk today quoting reference KM2020

Don’t Leave Your Wealth to the Government Do you know the true cost of dying without a will? Are you one of the 60% of Britons who haven’t made a will? If so, you may end up leaving much of your wealth to the Government instead of your family. ACCORDING to unbiased.co.uk, 76% of people aged between 18-34 have no will in place. For those aged 35-54, 68% have no will. The over-55s are better prepared, with just 36% who haven’t made a will… but don’t leave it too long. Between 2016 and 2017, the Treasury gained a massive £19 million because so many people died without making a will. Don’t make the mistake of thinking wills are just for the rich. If you own a home, you’re worth more than you think: the average homeowner has more than £214,000 worth of property to leave to loved ones. Wouldn’t you rather that money went to people you choose, instead of being distributed by the Government?

Most of us would — so why do so many people take such a risk by not making a will? ■ Many people believe they’re not worth enough to bother. ■ Many think everything will automatically go to their partner or children when that’s not always the case. ■ And many people think it’s too expensive. But dying without a will — even if you’re not rich — can cause real problems and heartache for the loved ones you leave behind. Dying Intestate May Mean Your Loved Ones Miss Out If you die without a will — which is called “dying intestate” — the Government decides who gets what from your wealth, referred to as an estate. Your spouse or civil partner is first in line, but won’t necessarily receive everything. Next in the queue are children or grandchildren, parents, siblings or their children, half-siblings or their children, grandparents, uncles and aunts or

their children and, finally, half-uncles and aunts or their children. If your estate is worth more than £250,000 and you have children, your spouse will probably receive the first £250,000 as well as all your personal possessions. They’ll also receive 50% of what’s left — with the other half passing to your children. If you have no relatives, your estate passes to the Crown or the Duchies of Cornwall or Lancaster. These rules are known as the laws of intestacy. So, as you can see, if you die without making a will it’s entirely possible some (or all) of your wealth could go to people you don’t know very well — or at all. Friends, carers, and charities would miss out on your generosity. Will Your Partner Automatically Inherit? Some time ago, an unmarried couple who had been together for more than 30 years came into our law firm. They didn’t have children but were shocked to discover that if one of them died their assets wouldn’t go to the other partner. They had thought the “common law wife” concept would protect them. No such concept exists in UK law. Because each person owned everything in their individual names all assets would have passed to their respective families. And because the property they lived in was solely in the man’s name things would have been particularly difficult if he died first. Under the intestacy rules his estranged brother would have inherited the house — and they had no idea where he was. The partner wouldn’t have received any part of the property. She would have had to make a claim against the estate. This couple only needed simple wills — but what a difference they make. Now they’re both protected. Don’t Pay More Inheritance Tax Than You Need To Generally, any estate worth up to £325,000 is free of inheritance tax. For any assets over and above that threshold, estates can be taxed at 40%. You may not think

your estate is worth that much, but when you combine property, vehicles, and other assets it all adds up. If your estate is larger, you’ll definitely want to think about inheritance tax: a specialist solicitor will be able to write your will in such a way that you minimise the amount of tax due, leaving more money for your loved ones. In fact, they may be able to save your beneficiaries many times the solicitor’s fees. How To Save Headaches And Heartaches Dying without a will can cost your loved ones thousands of pounds in wasted administration costs, and lead to bitter family arguments. Professionals will have to locate family members who may be scattered far and wide, as well as gather any investments you may have in various places. When you make a will, you can take care of all that — and appoint the appropriate relatives or friends as guardians to take care of your children after you’re gone. You can be sure your funeral wishes are fulfilled and make sure people you trust will take care of administering your estate. In short, making a will takes away any guesswork and reduces the risk of any disputes. You can ensure your family and friends don’t have to deal with difficult administrative affairs while they’re grieving for you. Book A Free Consultation Today Whether you think you need a will or not, it won’t cost you anything except a little time to come and talk to one of our experienced Private Client solicitors in an initial consultation. You can come to our offices and ask us anything – and we’ll help you work out what’s best for you.

For further information and to apply for a FREE CONSULTATION call us on 01892 526442 or email us at enquiries@keenemarsland.co.uk today quoting reference KM0120

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KENT CRIME FIGURES UP: PCC Matthew Scott comments on Kent being declared a crime hot spot p6 SLIM PICKINGS: Tunbridge Wells Slimming World clubs praised and meet Alan Carr at national event p8 GO WITH THE FLOW: How a local charity is helping Ethiopia to fight the effects of climate change p10

LESSONS FOR THE FUTURE: Liz Hawker on what the new government needs to do to future-proof pupils’ education p15

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Council budget plans Continued from page 1 This includes elderly and vulnerable adults, subsidised transport for children, recycling and disposal of household waste, and investment in new or improved public infrastructure. The money spent equates to around £663 for each individual in Kent, an increase of £38. In addition, over the next three years, KCC will spend £906million of its capital budget – money set aside for infrastructure and assets – on priority areas such as roads and highways, waste services and improving the buildings in which services are based. To balance its books, County Hall says taxpayers will see an increase in their Council Tax of 2 per cent to fund additional adult social care services and 2 per cent to pay for all other

WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES

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services, which for a Band D property would be around £46 a year. KCC Leader Roger Gough said this extra money will mean the council can press ahead with investing in the priorities it has outlined in its five-year ‘Strategic Statement’ plan, which is currently undergoing public consultation. He added: “The extra government funds are very welcome and much needed, but we also need to remember that they are only allocated for the coming year, so councils like ours need to continue to push for better funding in the future, which we hope will be outlined in the government’s Fair Funding Review. “County council services have a major impact on people’s lives, through schools, roads and highways, social services for vulnerable children and adults and for elderly people and services that are important to families and their communities, such as libraries and country parks.

Taxpayer

KCC’s £1billion spending plans include £395million on adult social care, such as looking after older people and vulnerable adults. £269million is to go on children, young people and education, including providing early years education, subsides school transport and other children’s services. £177million is to be spent on growth, environment and transport, such as pathways, roads and waste facilities. £81million will be spent on strategic and corporate services, including the costs of running the council and its estate. £129million will go on general finance, including the cost of debt, insurance and audits. The 2 per cent rise in general Council Tax will help fund additional services for children, including £4.9million for disabled children’s services, and £9.6million for other children’s services. It will also provide £7.1million extra funding for highways transport and waste, including £1.1million for changes to waste recycling and disposal facilities, and additional spending on infrastructure in the capital programme requires £3million of financing. And £3.5m will go on high impact improvements in support of new Strategic Statement priorities, which will be announced at a later date.

“As Leader of KCC I want to focus on the spending priorities and services we provide that matter most to our residents and make the most visible difference, whilst still achieving value for money for the Kent taxpayer.” He added although there was currently a shortfall of just under £2million to balance the budget plans, which go before Full Council on February 13, this will be met from changes to the final spending and savings plan. Tunbridge Wells county councillor and Cabinet member for Finance, Corporate and Traded Services, Peter Oakford, added: “It is important that Kent residents and businesses understand that the council has still got to make some tough decisions, on both spending on day-to-day services and improvements in public

Urbaser penalty notice Continued from page 1 council has seen the necessary improvements, despite numerous assurances at the many meetings that have been held. Our residents expect regular and reliable waste collection and are justifiably frustrated that they are not getting it.” She went on: “With the New Year not offering any

HAVE YOUR SAY KCC has launched a consultation on its plans to improve the quality of life for the county’s residents over the next five years. In its Strategic Statement consultation, County Hall has set out seven priorities, including: enterprise and investment, securing sustainable infrastructure, transport and communities, a cleaner and greener county, stronger and safer communities, more opportunities for children and young people, and improving the health, care and support of the people in the county. “It’s vitally important that residents now have the chance to shape what those services will be like and what kind of county we are going to be living in over the next few years,” said Leader Roger Gough. “The plan seeks to respond to what residents have already told us about their desire for services that protect and enhance the quality of life in Kent. We must particularly address the challenges that residents see in their daily lives: the increasing demand for local public services from an ageing and changing population; the impact of significant housing growth, and the pressure on our infrastructure.” The consultation runs from 6 January to 17 February 2020 and more information is available at kent.gov.uk/5yearplan infrastructure. “The 2020-21 proposals represent a significant shift from the very challenging budgets we have had for a number of years where money has been very tight, to a year of treading water with some additional money while we await the outcome of a Government Spending Review sometime later this year which should provide a clearer picture of the financial outlook for local government over the next few years.” improvement in the service, the time for excuses and apologies is over. “Neither council can allow the situation to continue. I am therefore providing notice that having already issued a number of default notices, both councils intend to trigger financial penalty clauses in the contract in the hope that this focuses minds on this very serious problem.” And she warned the councils would ‘not hesitate to continue to impose additional penalties’. Urbaser has been contacted for comment.

Town bids a final farewell to Teacher in running for award as the ‘most dedicated in world’ an orchestral leading light By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk A TEACHER from Tonbridge has been nominated as one of the ‘world’s most dedicated teachers’ in recognition of her project to help more children enjoy reading. Nicola Hill of Slade Primary School made the shortlist of 50 teachers across the globe chosen by Cambridge University Press to ‘celebrate the vital role they play in the lives of their students’. Last summer the 46-year-old mother of three set up a ‘Look for a Book’ scheme, leaving children’s books in plastic bags around Tonbridge and Hildenborough. They are then circulated among the community for free. Finders can keep the books, but Mrs Hill encloses notes suggesting they also repackage and leave them elsewhere. Mrs Hill, who teaches Year One, also encourages readers and parents to leave their own notes inside when they have finished with the stories. She was chosen from more than

6,000 nominees, originating in 97 different countries, which were submitted to the elite university’s publishing company. One of the competition’s criteria was that they ‘prepared students for their futures beyond school and made the ordinary, extraordinary’. A panel of expert judges will now choose the six finalists, to be announced on January 20, after which the public can vote for their favourite. The overall winner will be revealed on February 3. Mrs Hill was thrilled to hear the news, saying: “It was a lovely surprise. My headteacher Mrs [Karen] Slade received an email just before we broke up for the Christmas. “She passed it on but it was not until I was at home that evening that I saw it was an international award and that I had been shortlisted from over 6,000 nominations!” Mrs Hill was put forward for the award by Slade parent Kerry TaylorSmith, who said: “If finding new ways to encourage young people to read isn’t dedication and going above and beyond then I don’t know what is.”

By Richard Williams ON FRIDAY the town says goodbye to the man who put the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra [RTWSO] on the orchestral map. Ralph Hebditch, who has died aged 89, was for many years Chairman of the RTWSO. As such, Ralph was instrumental in turning the orchestra into the finest of its type in south-east England. Born in Scarborough in 1930, Ralph left school at 16 and joined a local electrical engineering company before moving to London where he met his first wife, Barbara Rowntree, who was studying at the Royal College of Music. After marrying in 1958, the pair moved to Tunbridge Wells where Barbara started to play with the RTWSO, eventually becoming its Chair, until her untimely death in 1996, when Ralph was catapulted into her position. “Ralph was not a player himself, but through his professional

business experience and his lifelong involvement in the Quaker movement he developed a deep understanding of people and what makes them tick,” said current Chairman, Giles Clarke. “This gave him a special rapport with the musicians of the Orchestra who, in Ralph’s words, ‘in some ways live on their nerves in order to do the wonderful things they do’. “But Ralph’s business skills also meant that he ensured the Orchestra had a sound financial basis and, through setting up its associated Friends’ organisation, gave the RTWSO a secure future that remains the envy of many other local orchestras.” Ralph, who remarried in 1998 to lifelong friend Anne Speedy, had two children from his first marriage, Stephen and Alison, six grandchildren, four step daughters and 13 step grandchildren. His funeral service takes place on Friday, January 10 at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium at 2.30pm.

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Body found in hunt for man reported missing THE search for a missing 54-year-old Tunbridge Wells man has been called off after a body was found at the weekend. Chris Wright was reported missing on January 2 after last being seen in the town centre, but a spokesman for Kent Police said they received a report from the neighbouring Sussex force that a body had been discovered near to Lamberhurst. The discovery was made at around 8pm on Sunday, January 5, and although formal identification has not yet taken place, the family of Mr Wright has been informed. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

Winter Lanterns return THE Winter Lantern Parade is set to return to Tunbridge Wells next month. Organised by the Camden Road Education, Arts and Theatre Experience [CREATE], the event will take place on February 8. Last year, thousands lined Camden Road to see the lanterns when the theme was ‘outer space’.

Soroptimist President A TWICE previous President of Tunbridge Wells Soroptimists has been appointed as Regional President of the International South East Region. Lorna Blackmore, a former Tunbridge Wells borough councillor who currently sits on the Town Forum, succeeds Jane Webb as the head of the South East region for the International organisation that works to improve the lives of women and girls. On taking on the role, Ms Blackmore said: “I intend to be effective in supporting and encouraging women locally to achieve their full potential in their chosen field.”

Curious check outs BOSSES at a Tunbridge Wells Hotel have revealed the strange and peculiar things guests have left behind. Staff at Travelodge, based on Mount Ephraim, have found an array of odd items left behind by guests, including a dozen 5ft plastic flamingos, a collection of china cats, a set of bagpipes, a five tiered wedding cake, an antique abacus and 12 rolls of Robert Cavalli wallpaper. A spokeswoman for the hotel giant, said when people were in a rush ‘valuable possessions were easily forgotten’.

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Is panto as popular as ever ? Oh, yes it is! By Richard Williams THE demise of the pantomime has long been forecast by naysayers, but in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, the quintessential British tradition is alive and well. Tens of thousands attended productions in the two towns this Christmas, where Peter Pan was performed in both. At the Assembly Hall Theatre around 20,000 flocked to see UK Productions’ version of the JM Barrie classic over the Christmas period. Running from December 7 until January 5 and starring Lloyd Warbey from ITV’s Art Attack as the eponymous boy who never grew up and Holby City and Eastenders’ Paul Bradley playing his arch rival Captain Hook, the production wowed the crowds with an extended stage, huge sets and lavish song and dance routines. “Panto is most definitely alive and well in Tunbridge Wells,” said Assembly Hall Theatre director, JJ Almond.

Reviews “It has traditional roots but it still works today because the format allows it to be brought up to date using current music and humour. “Special effects can be even more magical now as technology is incorporated into productions, we’ve even run STEM [science, technology, engineering and maths] workshops for schools as part of the Peter Pan programme this year which have been very well received,” he added. “It has had some fantastic reviews and although we don’t have final figures yet we know that nearly 20,000 visitors have seen the show and there has been an increase in bookings from schools. We think overall the attendance will be comparable to previous years.” Elsewhere in the town, Trinity Theatre’s Christmas production of the Hans Christian Anderson

HE’S BEHIND YOU Peter Pan at the EM Forster in Tonbridge

classic, The Snow Queen, showed audiences had a taste for alternatives to panto too. The first show under new theatre director Kezia Cole, ran from December 12-31 and proved immensely popular. “I was thrilled to create my first show for Trinity, it was something a little different for our audiences who have been incredibly supportive and I hope

‘There was a real buzz around the show and we were thrilled’ they will come and find out about the brilliant work we will be developing this year,” said Ms Cole. “My favourite audience response was from one of the young people who came who described it as ‘Brilliant and psycho!’, which I think has to count

as my favourite feedback on any show ever.” Wicked Productions’ performance of Peter Pan at Tonbridge’s EM Forster Theatre, featuring local entertainer Tom Swift, saw 90 per cent capacity across all 41 shows during its run from December 13 to January 5. Kat Portman Smith, Theatre Manager said it was their ‘best year for us yet’. “There was a real buzz around the show and we are thrilled to have delighted so many people. For many panto is their only visit to the theatre and we want to make it a great experience that will hopefully encourage them back,” she said. “Working with Tom Swift at Wicked Productions means we can offer our audiences a truly top quality show full of jokes, special effects, music and magic, and in our auditorium audiences are never far from the action, keeping them involved from beginning to end.”

Landslip repairs are likely to take weeks NETWORK Rail have said it could be March before the track is repaired between Tonbridge and Redhill following last month’s landslip, which they are blaming on ‘climate change’. A 100 metre stretch of the track near Edenbridge was left suspended in mid-air following a deluge on December 22 that caused the earth beneath the 200-year-old railway to slip. Commuters have been forced on to replacement bus services ever since as engineers strugg to repair the line. Network Rail have said it was uncertain how long the track would take to repair, but estimated the line will not be open until at least March.

John Halsall from Network Rail told BBC’s South East that climate change was to blame. He said: “Over the last 20 years we have experienced every one of the hottest summers since records began and over the same periods seven of the wettest summers as well. “The statistics are absolutely clear that climate change is not something for the future it is something that affects us today.” He continued: “We will never be able to guarantee when there is extreme weather circumstances that the railway will run perfectly but we can make sure the railway is more resilient, which is just what we are focusing on today.”

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PCC says crime figures will fall after Kent found to be worst in the south By Richard Williams KENT’S Police and Crime Commissioner has said he expects recorded crime will fall when new figures are released later this month. According to the last raft of official figures, Kent has the seventh highest number of recorded crimes per population in the UK, and tops the list in the south, beating even London. It is the only force area in the south of England to be in the bottom ten. The county also has the second highest level of violent crimes in the country, with only West Yorkshire reporting more. This is despite Kent Police and Crime Commissioner [PCC], Matthew Scott, increasing

TASER USE DOUBLES POLICE in Kent drew Tasers on nearly 600 occasions in 2018-2019, but officers only discharged the devices 71 times, figures show. In total, Kent’s officers drew a Taser on 588 occasions over 12 months. While police only discharged the weapon on only one in eight of those occasions, it is still double the previous year when 35 Tasers were discharged at suspected criminals. In March 2019, chief constable of Kent Police Alan Pughsley announced all frontline officers including special constables would have the opportunity to be trained, accredited and equipped with a Taser.

Council Tax in the county by around £24 per household to fund new officers last year. But the ONS [Office for National Statistics] data only shows figures for the 12 months up to June 2019, where there were 106 recorded crimes for every 1,000 people in the county – which puts it four places higher than London where only 99 crimes are recorded for the same number of people. West Yorkshire tops the list at 128 recorded crimes.

Historic railway falls victim to ‘mindless vandals’ POLICE are appealing for information after vandals attacked the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells on New Year’s Eve and attempted to set fire to two restored carriages. Volunteers at the steam and diesel heritage railway turned up for work on New Year’s Day only to find fireworks had been set off inside two 1960s dining cars with items inside left burned, broken and stolen. Jonnie Pay, Commercial Manager at the

attraction said the attack, which took place between 6pm on Tuesday, December 31 and 8.45am on Wednesday, January 1 was ‘mindless vandalism’. “Overnight, it appears some people decided to have a New Year’s party and broke into our two beautifully restored 1960s dining cars, one being the award winning bar car ‘Kate’ at Tunbridge Wells West. “There are remnants of fireworks set off inside the coaches, a charred box outside the door into Kate’s kitchen, mince pies and sandwiches chucked all over the coaches, one broken end door where they’ve attempted to get in plus evidence of a firework being launched at the woodwork in Kate.” He went on to say that a fire extinguisher appeared to have been stolen along with a card reader, and catering stock needed to be replaced. “The damage could have been a whole lot

Ten churches a week are being targeted by criminals CONCERNS have been raised over the vulnerability of churches as more than ten crimes a week are being committed in a place of worship or graveyard in Kent, new figures have revealed. There have been 579 recorded cases of theft, arson, drug trafficking and even rape in Kent churches since January 2017. The figures, as part of a FOI [Freedom of Information] request by the Countryside Alliance, show that across the country nearly 20,000 crimes were reported against churches – a rate of 19 a day.

Reassurance

Performance But new figures from the ONS, due to be released later this month, are set to show statistics for the whole of last year, and Matthew Scott told the Times that he expects these will show a fall in crime numbers. He said: “Police recorded crime data is not a gold-standard measure of performance. Comparisons between force areas can be misleading due to differences in population and the fact that some forces, like Kent, are better at recording crime accurately than others. “I don’t set numerical targets. To understand the bigger picture I prefer to look at victim satisfaction surveys, hospital admissions data, correspondence from members of the public, and I consider feedback from my commissioned services like Victim Support too. “What is important to me is knowing that Kent Police is working to tackle crime, wherever it takes place. “I am pleased to say the Chief Constable is

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MATTHEW SCOTT recruiting additional police officers to tackle priority areas such as burglary and domestic abuse. Extra officers are being deployed to town centres to deal with incidents of violence, anti-social behaviour and shoplifting; and PCSO numbers are increasing too. “Communities are starting to see the benefits of these officers. I anticipate that the next ONS data, when it is published, will show that recorded crime decreased in Kent over the 12 month period to September 2019.” The 2019 ONS Crime in England and Wales report is due to be published on January 23.

‘MINDLESS’ Vandals ransacked the dining cars

worse and thankfully no fire was able to take hold,” he said, adding that the attack was, ‘a complete mindless act of vandalism on a charitable heritage railway, run by a 100 per cent volunteer workforce’. A spokesman for Kent Police said the force was investigating and appealed for anybody with information to contact them.

In Kent, recorded crimes on ecclesiastical property included 53 cases of lead theft, 146 cases of general theft, 224 cases of criminal damage (including arson) and 131 cases of violence against a person. Mo Metcalf-Fisher of the Countryside Alliance said the findings were ‘extremely distressing’. He added: “These figures serve as a reminder of the importance of funding and pushing for visible policing.” A spokesman for Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott, said Kent Police’s specialist rural team has been ‘doubled in size’.

‘Rural areas are benefiting from a more co-ordinated, visible and effective police presence’ He added: “This investment provides rural communities with reassurance, and the continuity of a specialist rural police officer being accessible every day of the week. “Rural areas are benefiting from a more coordinated, visible and effective police presence, delivering tangible results against force priorities involving rural, wildlife, environmental and heritage crime. In addition, the PCC supports the Heritage Watch partnership helping to protect Kent’s archaeological sites, churches and castles from heritage crime.”

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Thousands see in the New Year with a hug By Holly Stafford IT WAS standing room only at The Pantiles on New Year’s Eve, as Tunbridge Wells welcomed in the new decade last week. Nearly 4,000 revellers saw in 2020 at HugMany, the event that encourages people to celebrate the New Year sharing as many hugs as possible. With all of the proceeds donated to local charities including Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre, Trinity Theatre and Nourish Community Foodbank, Hug-Many has become a staple in the town since it first started in 2014. The concept behind the New Year’s Eve event is not just a play on words, but for some people, a hug can make all the difference, explains Ian Andrew, who started the event six years ago. He told the Times: “This year, we raised between £10,000 – £12,000 at the gates. “It was a great night for the town with the surrounding pubs and clubs being open, and this year it was really an event for all ages, families, young people and older people.” The crowd saw in 2020 with live music from funk band, Oomphf, a dazzling firework display, a live DJ and the obligatory countdown to midnight. Managing Director of the Tunbridge Wells Hotel, Julian Leefe-Griffiths who helped organise this year’s Hug-Many, said they also had a first for the event this year. “We had a man ask to come up on stage so that he could propose to his girlfriend. Thankfully, she said yes. That was a first for us. This year was a great event with a fantastic crowd, who were delightful – there was a good mood all round.”

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MUSIC TO THEIR EARS Oomphf entertain the crowd

But some partygoers warned that Hug-Many was in danger of becoming a bit too popular. One New Year’s Eve reveller said: “It was very packed. I went with my mum and there was a lot of pushing and shoving. It was okay for me but my mum is older so it was not ideal, but other than that it was a good night.” The event also involved a massive clear up operation on New Year’s Day. “We were back at The Pantiles at 8.30 am to dispose of the tons of rubbish left behind,” added Mr Leefe-Griffiths. “However, this year, William Benson at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council arranged for a cleaning team to come and help, which we are very grateful for as it made the hardest part of the night, run much smoother.” HAPPY NEW YEAR Revellers as it approaches midnight

COUNTDOWN Ian Andrew with Pickering’s Polly Taylor standing before the countdown clock

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Cripps ends 2019 with an award high LAW firm Cripps Pemberton Greenish has ended 2019 on a high after its corporate team celebrated an award win and three shortlistings. Partner Ed Weeks has been recognised as ‘Dispute Resolution Individual of the Year’ at The Legal 500 Awards. The corporate team has also been shortlisted for the South East Dealmakers Awards, which takes place in February for ‘Private Equity Deal of the Year’, ‘Corporate Lawyer of the Year’, and ‘Corporate Law Firm of the Year’. The head of the corporate group, James Beatton, said: “Receiving recognitions such as these reaffirm our position as Kent’s leading law firm for businesses. “It’s great to end 2019 on such a high, and we look forward to continuing to build on this in 2020.”

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Over 6,000 low paid workers set for an April pay increase By Richard Williams MORE than 6,000 low paid workers in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge are set for an April pay rise as businesses in the area brace themselves for the ‘biggest ever’ increase in the national living wage. From April 1, the minimum pay for workers over 25 is to go up from £8.21 to £8.72. According to the independent Low Pay Commission [LPC], the 51p an hour rise is the largest since the national living wage replaced the

minimum wage in April 2016. Younger workers receiving a lower rate will also see their pay boosted by between 4.6 per cent and 6.5 per cent, depending on their age, with 21 to 24 year olds seeing a 50p increase from £7.70 to £8.20 an hour. According to the LPC, Tunbridge Wells currently has around 3,100 employees on the national living wage, around 6.9 per cent of the borough’s workforce, who will each receive a pay rise equal to £930 a year on April 1. Around 3,300 employees in Ton-

bridge & Malling, or approximately 5.9 per cent of the workforce, will also benefit from the pay rise.

Self-defeating Nationally, more than three million workers are earning the national living wage, which the government wants to increase to 60 per cent of median earnings by 2020. Prime Minister Boris Johnson welcomed the ‘biggest ever cash boost to the national living wage’. But employers’ organisations remain

cautious over the pay rise. Craig Beaumont, Director of External Affairs and Advocacy at the Federation of Small Business, said there was a danger the rise could be ‘self-defeating’ as it was ‘vital’ rises were ‘manageable’ for business. He explained: “Four in ten small employers say they will raise prices in response to a National Living wage increase of this magnitude. “One in four say they will recruit fewer workers, one in five will cancel investment plans, and one in ten will consider redundancies.”

SLIM CHANCE

Repair Café proposals A GLOBAL initiative aimed at reducing consumption and cutting down on waste could be coming to Tunbridge Wells. Resident Chris Murphy wants to start a Repair Café in the town, where volunteers with knowledge and expertise are on hand to repair everyday items from clothing to computers. He told the Times: “The idea is that not only can you find somebody to help repair your items, but also learn to fix things yourself. We’re hoping to be up and running in March.” A meeting for prospective volunteers with repair experience is being held on Saturday January 25 at 10am in the meeting room upstairs at Trinity Theatre.

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

CHATTY Kay Sinclair [left] with Alan Carr and the Tunbridge Wells Slimming World team

SLIMMING consultants from Tunbridge Wells met comic ‘Chatty Man’ Alan Carr at last month’s Slimming World Awards, held at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre. Kay Sinclair from Tunbridge Wells Swimming World said: “We were honoured to represent the Tunbridge Wells groups at the Slimming World Awards. “Alan [Carr] was left in awe of the difference Slimming World makes to people’s lives.”

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Charity fights to save Ethiopia from effects of climate change By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk A MAN from Tonbridge has described his tenday trip to Ethiopia to examine ways to fight the effects of global warming as a ‘fantastic experience’. Paul Grime is a volunteer speaker for Christian Aid and was chosen by the charity to find out first-hand how climate change is having an impact on the African country. He visited a range of different projects being undertaken to address these issues by local partner organisations and communities. The various ideas that are being put into practice are breaking down barriers as well as helping to improve the standard of living. Paul said: “The places we visited enabled us to see for ourselves the difference that’s being made to people’s lives. “These people are extremely vulnerable to climate change. They have no buffer. If crops fail and livestock die, they cannot feed their families and their children die.” One of the programmes provides loans to women’s self-help groups in order to promote gender equality through entrepreneurship. These groups make a new type of clay stove, which uses less firewood, thereby reducing the impact of deforestation. They sell these ‘improved’ stoves to generate income.

‘They used to know exactly when to plant their crops… Now the rains come unexpectedly’ “The women told us how the self-help groups have increased social support and community cohesion,” said Paul. “The men told us they were initially sceptical about these groups. They are more supportive now that the income from the projects is starting to support the communities.” Another scheme is to construct barns which enable villages to store two different types of grain to feed their livestock, helping to sustain them through the dry seasons. Christian Aid’s partners have also improved access to clean drinking water by making pumps from natural underground springs and constructing rainwater storage facilities. Paul said: “Communities can now pump water in ten minutes instead of trekking up to six hours SUPPORT NETWORK The women’s self-help group

GO WITH THE FLOW The new water pump in action each day to fetch dirty water from a river. “People told us how this had transformed their lives. Children can now spend more time in school instead of collecting water.” This irrigation project is still in progress. “A canal is under construction to divert river water to potential farmland in a desert region. The men said they would share the farmland so that everyone had fair access.” Paul added: “There is no doubt that climate change is real. People in the communities we visited told us how it has affected them.

Drought “From 2015 to 2018 there were four successive years of drought. The weather has become less predictable. “They used to know exactly when to plant their crops and when to harvest them. Now the rains come unexpectedly, or don’t come at all, so their crops fail. “We asked what we should say to people who do the things that cause climate change. Their response was directed at us. They said: ‘Please consider us.’”

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT (L-R) FEAST volunteers Lee Athwal and Sarah Hardcastle with Rotary Club President Phil Higgins

Rotary’s festival donation will help FEAST support low-income families THE Rotary Club of Tonbridge presented a cheque for £250 to the town’s food support group FEAST at one of their Christmas lunches, from the proceeds of last month’s Christmas Festival. FEAST, which stands for Families Eating And Sharing Together, is an initiative that began at Tonbridge Methodist Church and has been taken up by other churches in the town.

‘What we do is vital for families who often struggle to provide meals during school holidays’ As well as providing lunches for families on low incomes, the group also has a community store where those in need can obtain essential groceries and other household products. One of the project’s founder volunteers is Sarah Hardcastle, Pastoral Support Officer at Woodlands Primary School.

She welcomed the Rotary Club’s support, saying: “What we do here is vital for families who often struggle to provide meals during school holidays.

Santa “This is especially true of those who get free school meals but is not restricted to them. Many families who are in work but just fail to qualify for benefits find school holidays a huge financial challenge.” Last Christmas the project expanded to include a festive offering, and for the lunch at the Methodist Chuch on December 23 families were treated to a home-cooked Christmas lunch with all the trimmings and a visit from Santa, who had a gift for every child. FEAST operates during every school holiday with lunches also being served at St Philip’s, Tonbridge Baptist Church and Christ Church. This Christmas there were four meals provided – including one in Otford, near Sevenoaks, for the first time – with 40 people coming to each one.

Guide dog puppies train with a trip to Neverland THE Assembly Hall welcomed ten puppies from the Tunbridge Wells and Medway branches of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association when they visited the theatre as part of their training. The well-behaved young dogs came to one of last year’s performances of the pantomime Peter Pan and it proved to be an ideal experience for them.

Noise The theatre’s Creative Learning Manager, Bethan Minter, said: “These well-behaved puppies saw the flashing lights, loud bangs and magical special effects – it was perfect material for helping them become fully trained guide dogs. “Then they got to chill out with the panto cast after the show. The theatre and cast loved having them in and we hope to see them again next year.” Janice McCauley, Social Events Co-ordinator for Guide Dogs for the Blind Medway, said: “We are very appreciative of the team at the PETER PANT: Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Darling) and Lacy Assembly Hall for supporting our Jordinson (Tiger Lily) meet the guide dogs work each year – it has become a tradition. interested in Nana the dog and couldn’t quite “The panto is excellent grounding for make out if it was real or not and barked when it training with all the special effects, lights, music, first came on the stage. fireworks, confetti and the noise of the children. “You can imagine when we went on stage and “It really offers so many experiences, and the the actor took her dog head off – that confused a pups were all a credit to us.” few pups!” She added: “One trainee pup was very

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Sixth Labour MP enters leadership race REBECCA Long-Bailey has become the sixth MP to put herself forward to succeed Jeremy Corbyn as the next leader of the Labour Party. The shadow business secretary, who said the party needs a ‘proud socialist’ to succeed Mr Corbyn, insisted he had been the ‘right man with the right moral integrity’ to lead the party. She was speaking yesterday [Tuesday] as she set out her pitch to become Labour leader. But she acknowledged failings that led to the electoral mauling the party suffered in December. “We weren’t trusted on Brexit,” she said. “We weren’t trusted as a party to tackle the crisis of anti-Semitism.”

Integrity She continued: “We weren’t trusted on our policies, no matter how radical or detailed they were. “They simply didn’t hit the ground running.” Ms Long-Bailey has faced claims she would be the “continuity candidate” rather than breaking from the agenda championed by Mr Corbyn. She told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I supported Jeremy. I still support Jeremy because I

CONTENDERS: [Top left to right] Lisa Nandy, Jess Phillips, Keir Starmer, [bottom left to right] Rebecca Long-Bailey, Clive Lewis and Emily Thornbury felt that he was the right man with the right moral integrity to lead the party.”

Joker leads Bafta nominations THE dark comic tale of the DC comic book villain, Joker, leads the nominations at the British Academy film awards with 11 nods. The origin story starring Joaquin Phoenix as Arthur Fleck, is in the running for best film, best actor, best adapted screenplay and best director. But Bafta bosses say they were left ‘infuriated’ by the lack of diversity in this year’s nominations. Joker is closely followed by Martin Scorsese’s gangster epic The Irishman and Quentin Tarantino’s ninth film, Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood, which both scored 10 nominations and will also compete in the best film category, alongside Sir Sam Mendes’ war film 1917 and Korean film Parasite. Phoenix will compete with Once Upon A Time star Leonardo DiCaprio, Marriage Story’s Adam Driver, Rocketman star Taron Egerton, and Jonathan Pryce for The Two Popes in the leading actor category. The nominees for the leading actress Bafta are Jessie Buckley for Wild Rose, Scarlett Johansson for Marriage Story, Saoirse Ronan for Little Women, Charlize Theron for Bombshell, and

JOKER Bafta Nominated Renee Zellweger for Judy, while Margot Robbie scored two nominations in the supporting actress category for her roles in Bombshell and Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood. The other nominees are Laura Dern for Marriage Story, Scarlett Johansson for Jojo Rabbit, and Florence Pugh for Little Women. The supporting actor nominees are Tom Hanks for A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood, Sir Anthony Hopkins for The Two Popes, Al Pacino for The Irishman, Joe Pesci for The Irishman, and Brad Pitt for Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood. It had been hoped that Greta Gerwig would land

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50 dead in stampede at Soleimani funeral

Warrant for wife of exNissan chairman Ghosn

AT LEAST 50 people have been killed and dozens injured in a stampede that erupted at a funeral procession for an Iranian general killed in a US air strike, Iran state TV said. Qasem Soleimani is being laid to rest in his hometown of Kerman, with millions already estimated to have packed the streets for funeral processions. Meanwhile, the US government is warning ships across Middle Eastern waterways of the ‘possibility of Iranian action against US maritime interests’ in the region.

TOKYO prosecutors have issued an arrest warrant for the wife of Nissan’s former chairman Carlos Ghosn on suspicion of perjury. The move against Carole Ghosn, who is not in Japan, followed her husband’s flight to Lebanon after his release on bail while he was awaiting trial for alleged financial misconduct. Lebanon and Japan do not have an extradition treaty. Mrs Ghosn was banned from meeting with her husband while he was out on bail because she was seen as someone who might help his escape.

BP sells two oil sites

New boss at EasyHotel

OIL giant BP has sold several oil fields in the North Sea for $625million (£475million) as major players continue to exit the dwindling basin, handing over to smaller producers. Premier Oil, a London listed company, said it was buying the Andrew Area and Shearwater sites from BP, hoping to capture the 82 million barrels of oil and equivalents, thought to still be trapped under the ground. The Andrew Area includes five oil fields, with a stake of between 50 per cent and 100 per cent in each, Premier said.

EASYHOTEL has appointed a new boss, months after a Luxembourg investment group bought a majority stake in the listed business. The budget hotel firm has announced that Francois Bacchetta will join the company as its chief executive in the spring. In November, Guy Parsons stepped down from the helm of the hospitality company, with chairman Scott Christie taking over as interim chief executive. Mr Bacchetta joins the company from easyJet, where he has worked for the past 15 years and is currently country director for France and Italy.

But in a break from Mr Corbyn, she signalled she would be prepared to press the nuclear button if she became prime minister. “If you have a deterrent you have to be prepared to use it,” she said, but stressed she was “not going to be a warmonger”. Ms Long-Bailey - favourite of the Labour left said she could be trusted to maintain ‘our socialist agenda’, comments that will be seen as a thinly veiled swipe at shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer, who has also announced his intention to stand for leader. He has been keen to stress his left-wing credentials despite being seen to come from a more centrist tradition. In addition to Ms Long-Bailey and Sir Keir, four other candidates have announced they intend to stand for the leadership - frontbenchers Emily Thornberry and Clive Lewis, and backbenchers Jess Phillips and Lisa Nandy. Former Cabinet minister Yvette Cooper has ruled out a leadership bid. The candidates will be questioned by their fellow MPs at a private hustings in Westminster on Tuesday night. a directing nomination for her adaptation of Little Women, but she is only recognised in the adapted screenplay category, leaving an all-male directing line-up of Mendes for 1917, Todd Phillips for Joker, Scorsese for The Irishman, Tarantino for Once Upon A Time, and Bong Joon-ho for Parasite. The winners and nominees in the majority of categories are voted for by 6,500 Bafta members, who are comprised of industry professionals and creatives from around the world. Technical, writing and craft awards are chosen by the relevant specialist chapter. Addressing the lack of diversity, Bafta chief executive Amanda Berry said: “Being totally honest, we are disappointed and that is not to take anything away from the people who have been nominated. “We do have 13 directors nominated who are females across other categories, so everybody from Jennifer Lee who directed Frozen 2, and this is what gives me joy and hope actually, six female directors in the shorts category and that is the category where we are really seeing talent at the start of their career and they are the industry of the future, but we are going to do more, we are not going to stop pushing.

Teen admits killing PC Andrew Harper PC ANDREW HARPER

A TEENAGER has admitted killing a police officer who was dragged along the road by a van after being called to reports of a break-in. PC Andrew Harper, 28, died in August in Berkshire, four weeks after he had married. Henry Long, 18, from Mortimer, Reading, pleaded guilty to manslaughter at the Old Bailey but denies murder. The Thames Valley Police officer from Wallingford, Oxfordshire, died from multiple injuries. A 17-year-old co-defendant, who cannot be identified, entered not guilty pleas to PC Harper’s manslaughter and conspiracy to steal. Another 17-year-old boy denied the same charges at an earlier hearing. A fourth defendant, Thomas King, 21, from Basingstoke, has admitted conspiracy to steal a quad bike. The three teenagers are due to face a six-week trial at the Old Bailey from March 9.

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

Please can you help us find a very special teddy bear?

loss of 1,300 jobs in the town, but it failed to see his own defeat at the polls. Ralph Steerpike Tunbridge Wells

It’s wrong to call Boris a racist

BEST FRIEND Damz has attended all of Theo’s treatments Calling all people in the Tunbridge Wells area. Theo, one of our Taylor Made Dreams children, is desperately missing her very special companion. Damz, a teddy bear wearing a cream Harrods dressing gown, has been a constant friend to Theo throughout her illness and has attended all her treatments, scans and hospital appointments. We need your help to find him. Damz was staying with his family at the Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells on December 21 and 22. The family believe Damz was left in their bedroom suite on leaving the hotel, but unfortunately he has not been found.

What gives us the moral right? Graham Salmon claims that with 43.6 per cent of the vote Boris Johnson ‘has no moral right to take us out of the EU’ [December 31]. By that logic, very few parties since 1918 had any moral right to govern. The flawed reasoning behind his argument is to take the total electorate available; the total turnout, and the number voted for the winning party. In every case, the winning party polled fewer than 50 per cent of the total available votes – cast or not. This is just silly – pardon my intemperance: If votes aren’t cast they are out of the equation; a 43 per cent share of a 67 per cent turnout is a victory by any standards. And, in any event, as Mr Salmon well knows, we vote in individual constituencies – it’s not a presidential contest. Just to add hyssop to Mr Salmon’s cup of gall: If the Boundaries Commission recommendations had not been thwarted by the Lib Dems during the Clegg/Cameron coalition, the Conservative majority of seats won would have reached into three figures. But Nick Clegg had a strop and threw his toys out of the pram – so much for democracy –some MPs now represent constituencies that are double the size of others. In the same issue, John Elliott fantasises about PR [proportional representation] which, if

Please share this appeal so we can reunite Theo with her much loved Damz. The family visited The Pantiles, The Ivy and the ice rink in Calverley Gardens. The family don’t believe Damz left the hotel. Can we all keep a very keen eye out for this most precious teddy and make Theo’s wish come true – to have her best friend back? If found, please contact the charity at taylormadedreamscio@gmail.com

Martin Betts of the Tunbridge Wells Labour Party is wrong to perpetuate the falsehood that the Prime Minister is a racist [December 31]. Had he read the full article to which he refers – and I’m sure that he has but it suits his argument to ignore the context – he will be aware that the Prime Minister argued for freedom of choice and the right of any person to practise any creed and to wear any form of dress. He likened the niqab to a pillar box – that may be mildly amusing but it’s not racist, as it was demonstrably proven. He writes that Labour should have romped home and won the election, clearly exhibiting the ability to exist in a parallel universe. Labour were never going to win, nor will they whilst they cleave to a Marxist ideology – they show every sign of doing that – and a rigid, intellectual, elitist metropolitan internationalism that owes more to 1930s Russia than the realpolitik of the 21st century. Robert Moore Tunbridge Wells

Brilliant way to avoid hyperbole

adopted, would guarantee a succession of hung Parliaments and the endless nonsense we’ve endured these past three and a half years. Ben Hardy Tunbridge Wells

‘Brilliant’ – it’s everywhere – TV, art, theatre, music, book reviews, newspaper reporting. Everything, it seems, is ‘brilliant’ and I’ve come to loathe the word with a passion. Those who use it are, allegedly, wordsmiths; scriveners; critics; they earn their crust via the written and spoken word, and they don’t have a clue; don’t they have a thesaurus to hand? In my copy, brilliant has six broad entries and hundreds of options contained within them. Is it that hard? Hugh Masters Pembury

Still living in a parallel universe

Resolution: Pay more attention

It’s rather sad that there are those who still continue to exist in some parallel universe; some fantasy land; the seventh circle of hell of their own making, even after the landslide election results that confirmed the paramount issue confronting the electorate –that they elected to leave the EU over three years ago, and this result nailed it beyond any doubt. Alan Bullion believes that ‘it’s possible a workable result can be obtained before we leave, and that there’s the possibility we may leave under WTO terms’ [December 24]. Perhaps he is unaware that the Prime Minister has pledged to leave before the end of this year come what may – no ifs, no buts, we’re out. Poor old Ben Chapelard trumpets that the Lib Dems will hold the Tories to account in Parliament; yes, I bet they’re really scared: A much reduced Lib Dem party with no leader facing a stonking majority – that would have most of us worried. I don’t know who polishes his crystal ball or from what he divines that Brexit will cause the

I enjoyed doing the quiz in your Christmas Eve paper! I only scored 30, which suggests I should pay more attention all year. It was an entertaining way of reviewing all that goes on. Jane Mata Tonbridge

Suzi Mitchell, Chief Executive, Taylor Made Dreams

Skating on thin ice at town rink The skate rinks at Calverley Grounds have proved popular again, but at an environmental cost. Mild weather meant that several diesel generators were running flat out for long periods. The air quality for skaters in the natural bowl of the site during calm air periods could be of concern. Measures to reduce generator noise pollution have been taken, but perhaps it is time for an adequate permanent mains electricity supply to be provided to eliminate generator noise and fossil gas pollution. Terry Cloud Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

NEW YEAR’S DAY and an invite to drinks at the home of the new neighbours. How could Calverley resist? All was going fine until the host insisted everyone sat in a circle while she checked the guests’ auras. No need to Google: Your aura is ‘seen’ as a luminous body outside your physical one. Each layer, and any problems in them, surround your body in a net of energy. The colour of the aura reflects your physical, emotional and spiritual health. Apparently, Calverley, amongst other things, is an emotional wreck. What a way to start 2020! Next time an invite pops through the door…

NICE to know that vicars can retain a sense of humour even during their busiest time of the year. The one who perches on a bar stool two down from Calverley ordered his pint and declared: “Shame they put Christmas smack in the middle of a public holiday.” Ho, ho. CEREAL OFFENDERS: Standing in the kitchen watching Management (Mrs C) battling with Christmas lunch, Calverley happened to read a magazine with a story about a new survey that showed an incredible one in four Brits don’t know how to make porridge, while a third claim they have no idea how to boil an egg and serve it with soldiers. Makes one wonder if proper family lunches are doomed. SOME PEOPLE! Chatting to the manager of a large charity shop, Calverley was taken aback to learn that one of the biggest problems he faces on an almost daily basis is… theft. Seems charity shops are targeted by people with no conscience. So bad has it become that often only one shoe will be put on display, and thieves even carry cheap ornaments to replace the more expensive ones they take from display shelves. That way staff won’t immediately notice anything is missing.

FINAL THOUGHT: Entering into the spirit of the new decade, readers should be aware that Calverley now self-identifies as a 32 year old. (As usual, complaints please only on a postcard.) Chin Chin, dear reader

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EDUCATION Times Lessons we can learn about the future of our education Tunbridge Wells parent, teacher, specialist assessor and linguist Liz Hawker examines what the future of our education system might look like under the new Conservaative government, and how it could look to the work of Charles Dickens for inspiration we know that ‘soft’ skills and creativity AS WE curled up on our sofas over the are critical, but do not have classroom festive season, the BBC’s adaptation of time to develop them because of A Christmas Carol was a reminder that increased testing. And so, on it runs: Dickens’ brilliance is never outdated. The gap between our education sysIts powerful warning chimes that tem and workplaces widens rather fairness and equality are as vital than closes. At what future cost? as the air we breathe continue to Innovative employers open to the ring true for 2020, without any whiff Liz Hawker benefits of neurodiversity are introducof woke-ness or political intent. With a ing autism-friendly interviews and candicabinet reshuffle around the corner, this still date selection without reference to exam results. adds up, particularly for the world of education. “Inclusion unlocks the potential of a diverse After decades of exam reform, our system is narrowing down rather than broadening out, workforce,” states the World Economic Forum’s with traditional academic subjects squeezing the latest White Paper, HR4. Meanwhile, Forbes lists arts out of league tables despite evidence of their the top four skills most needed for the workplace, benefits. Exams are longer and tougher despite in order of importance, as creativity, emotional intelligence, analytical thinking and active learnincreased anxiety among young people. Science tells us that there are many different ing with a growth mindset. So, for the political landscape of 2020 we might, forms of intelligence, yet young people are still examined, in the main, through reading and writ- for argument’s sake, imagine Gavin Williamson ing. We understand diverse educational needs (Education Secretary at the time of writing) as a better, but do not have funding in the maintained fresh-faced young Scrooge, clean-cut in a navy suit and tie, nonetheless haunted by spirits… sector to deliver what is needed. The Ghost of Education Past wears a crown of As tech dominates our workplaces and our world,

the ‘Three Rs’ and glares at several dunces standing shamed in the corner. Its gleaming success is a font overflowing with knowledge, propped up by skills of rhetoric, grammar and fine diction. Nothing can stem its success, yet curiously it inhabits an almost exclusively male world. There is no place here for those with differences, as they have not been allowed to remain in the classroom.

Success The Ghost of Education Present appears different. It points its critical finger at classrooms worthy of, yet somehow lacking, in spirit: Wellmeaning teachers, deathly tired, are Tied to the Test, even with their youngest children. On school stages girls clutch their GCSE examination certificates proudly, with smiles of relief at the corners of their mouths, while the boys hold their heads high in Maths and Physics, all set for higher salaries in their 40s. Some who are different succeed at school, but others do not, despite their very good minds; yet many eventually achieve great success in the world of work.

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The Ghost of Education Yet to Come beholds a tragic vision. Universities are closing and the World of Work is turning its back on the culture of certificates. “What good?” employers cry, “What good is 9-to-1 when our world needs eco-systems, not work forces? We have AI! Collaboration, innovation, emotional intelligence – this is what we need, not memorised facts. Our world has changed, but regrettably, Education never did…” So, as a new year government reshuffle looms large, perhaps Boris Johnson should consult Dickens and heed the spirits’ warnings in time to avert disaster. Whoever takes education forward in 2020 has the opportunity to herald change and allow the story to end a little more like this: Scrooge was better than his word. He did it all, and infinitely more; and to the girls and boys, with all their differences, who finally found good employment, he was an excellent mentor. Some people laughed to see the alteration in him, but he let them laugh, and little heeded them; for he saw happiness in classrooms, and teachers with contentment in their eyes, as their pupils were free to learn in many different ways and no longer Tied to the Test; and knowing that these pupils had their different ways, he thought it quite well that classrooms should be places of Character, and no longer Lands of Learning Objectives. He had no further truck with spirits, but lived upon the Principle of Many Different Intelligences, ever afterwards; And it was always said of him that he knew how to keep Education well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us!

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Nicolas Heslop

Leader of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Nicolas Heslop has been the Leader of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council since May 2012, and has represented the Cage Green ward as a Conservative councillor since 1998. He works in education in London and is a regular at the Tonbridge Parkrun, completing over 200 runs

In 2020 we will continue to play our part LOOKING ahead to 2020, the future is bright for Tonbridge. As many areas in Kent and around the country struggle to attract visitors, shoppers and businesses, our town is thriving. We have big brand stores and an eclectic mix of smaller independents. We have our ancient castle, picturesque riverside walks, great leisure facilities, plus a growing number of restaurants and bars; and of course we have great links into London, making Tonbridge not only a great place to live for commuters, but also a prime destination for weekend visitors. It’s perhaps no surprise that we’re bucking the national trend with more than 5,000 people a day visiting the town centre. Success of this sort doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of a long-term strategy to ensure that Tonbridge keeps adapting and doesn’t stand still while the world around us changes. In 2020, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council will continue playing our part in ensuring the town continues to prosper and punch above its weight as a great place to live and work. The new medical centre in River Lawn Road, due to open in spring 2020, is just one example of how by thinking creatively about ways to use council-owned land we are enabling a

modern, state-of-the-art facility that will benefit everyone. Development must, of course, go hand in hand with protecting the environment and being conscious that decisions we make today will have an impact for generations to come. In 2020 we will launch a climate strategy to support our goal of radically reducing carbon emissions across the borough over the next ten years. Our new household recycling service is a step in the right direction and has already seen a more than doubling in the amount of material plastic, glass, paper and metal being collected for reuse. While its introduction has not been without teething problems, the year will see the service improved and extended to all homes across the borough.

THRIVING Cllr Heslop with staff at the Bakehouse in Tonbridge High Street

Economy The popularity of Tonbridge as a place to live also puts pressure on our green spaces. Demand for new homes means we must strike the right balance between meeting that need and preserving the character of our towns, villages and surrounding countryside. A growing population will help boost our local economy and support our thriving local and popular independent retailers.

In 2020 we aim to secure approval for our local plan, and our strategic approach is to ensure the necessary infrastructure in terms of new roads, schools and local services are baked in from the outset, and help guard against unsustainable or poorly planned development. And finally, 2020 will be a year of transformation in terms of efficiency in how the council operates and interacts with residents.

By investing in digital technologies, a new website and smarter working, we will continue to drive down our costs and make it easier than ever to access information and council services. In May 2019, Tonbridge residents were kind in helping return a Conservative majority at the Borough Council, and it is my privilege and honour to serve you all as Council Leader. We have an exciting year ahead. Happy New Year!

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PROPERTY, IN TERIORS & TOP TRENDS

INSPIRATION FOR MOVING AND IMPROVING timeslocalnews.co.uk

Picture perfect A mill on a stream Page 17

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BUYING EVENT AT ROYAL WELLS PARK

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EDWARDIAN GEM CLOSE TO SCHOOLS

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VILLAGE HOME WITH RURAL OUTLOOK

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Best property buys for... We all love to see homes with the ‘wow’ factor – which could apply to the kitchen, reception room, garden, or something else. Sarah Bond homes in on specific aspects that make these properties well worth a look… The POOL & GARDENS...

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Leopards Mill

Hanging Birch Lane, Horam ASKING PRICE

£1,495,000 CONTACT • Hamptons International, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 516611 • hamptons.co.uk A wonderful, beamed Grade II-listed former mill house surrounded by delightful gardens, a private lake fed by a stream, two paddocks and a heated outdoor swimming pool. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n 22ft drawing room with wood burner n Central sitting room n Dining room with French doors to pool n Family room with inglenook fireplace n Superb kitchen/breakfast room with large central island, Aga and utility room n Fitted study n Ground floor shower room and cloakroom n Wine cellar n Impressive principal bedroom suite with dressing room and bathroom n Guest bedroom with en suite n 3 further bedrooms and a family bathroom n Beautiful gardens with footbridge over stream, lake, kitchen garden, greenhouse and orchard n 2 paddocks with separate road access n Heated swimming pool with terrace surround n Driveway and double garage with workshop n In all about 5.6 acres

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The PRICE…

The KITCHEN/DINER…

The Crescent Withyham Road, Groombridge GUIDE PRICE

£569,500 CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk Comprehensively refurbished 1930s semidetached house with further potential. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Bay fronted living room with fireplace n Kitchen/family room with doors to rear n 3 bedrooms, two with tiled fireplaces n Bathroom with newly installed white suite

Court Lane Farmhouse Court Lane, Hadlow GUIDE PRICE

£1,300,000£1,500,000 CONTACT • Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 701900 • fineandcountry.com A home with equestrian facilities on a fine 2.25-acre plot on the rural fringes of the village, with a view of Hadlow Tower. It also offers the possibility of creating an integral annexe, subject to consents. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Lounge with fireplace and doors to conservatory n Impressive kitchen/diner with central island, breakfast bar, walk-in larder and utility room

n Hardwood conservatory n Ground floor bedroom 5/study and shower offering potential annexe with own entrance door and hallway, subject to necessary consents

n Master suite with dressing room and bathroom

n Sheltered garden with paved seating area, lawns, Victorian wall and small summerhouse n Large parking/turning area n Planning Permission to convert loft space for further bedroom and bathroom

SEE FINAL HOMES Sat Jan 18

Royal Wells Park Tunbridge Wells 1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS FROM

£325,000

Help to Buy available on selected properties

4 BEDROOM HOUSE

£895,000 CONTACT • Berkeley Homes Marketing Suite • 01892 886 996 • royalwellspark.co.uk

n 3 further bedrooms, two with en-suite showers n Family bathroom n Gardens with terrace, extensive lawns, summerhouse, fruit trees, willows and views

n Stable yard with three connected stables, shed/tractor store and its own vehicular access

n 2 flat paddock areas n Driveway with hardstanding for several vehicles n Ethernet connections and cabled satellite feeds n Solar panels contributing to hot water supply n 2.25 acres

On Saturday January 18, Berkeley Homes are hosting a special event from 10am to 6pm showcasing the last remaining homes at their prestigious Royal Wells Park development off Mount Ephraim. Visitors will be able to learn about the final eight apartments, a majority of which are available through Help to Buy, as well as the final four-bedroom house. Home-seekers will also be able to explore the four-bedroom show house and a twobedroom show apartment.

GIVING A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON ON GIVING A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES. BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

It’s time to see things differently... Hello and happy New Year!

Winkworth Tunbridge Wells is changing... ...we’re under new management! New Year, New Beginnings...

I am thrilled to announce that I have recently become part of the Winkworth family in Tunbridge Wells. My goal in 2020 is to make Winkworth your estate agent of choice, and to build a reputation that is based on trust, outstanding customer care, and creating strong links with the local community. We will be posting lots of information on social media, about our properties and the market over the coming months, so watch out for us!

Meet Natasha Firman, the I am also offering free valuation appraisals, so ring me any time for an appointment - or just pop into the office, we’re opposite the White Bear! new owner A brand you can trust, delivering a fresh approach to real estate in Tunbridge Wells. of Winkworth MRICS, Director, Winkworth Tunbridge Wells “Whether you’re looking Natasha to buy,Firman sell, rent or let, we’d love to hear from you for all your property needs.” 01892 519600 | twells@winkworth.co.uk Tunbridge Wells TUNBRIDGE WELLS £875,000 WILMINGTON £850,000 Natasha MRICS, Director, Winkworth Tunbridge Wells Attractive double fronted 4 bedroom 1930's family house inFirman the Claremont catchment area with off-road parking, garage & garden. Occupied & maintained to very good standard this character home is located within the village area of Tunbridge Wells convenient for nearby parks, schools & station. Presenting in mostly original configuration with potential to extend -VIEWINGS from 23/3/18

Charming detached period house circa 1850 in a delightful setting of mature landscaped gardens | with the added advantage of a studio above the double & single garage | double aspect living room with feature fireplace | well appointed modern kitchen/family room with island and doors leading into the garden | wet room & utility room | master bedroom with walk in wardrobe & en-suite shower room | 3 further bedrooms l modern family bathroom

TUNBRIDGE WELLS £535-565,000

NORTH CHAILEY £750,000

THE PANTILES HOUSE, NEVILL STREET, TUNBRIDGE WELLS £385,000 COLEMAN WARWICK WELLS £315,000 Attractive recently improved bay fronted 1920's 3 bedroom semi detached character house with original wooden floors & panel doors located at the end of a Beautifully presentedCOURT, detached Victorian cottage located ROAD, on the edge ofTUNBRIDGE Chailey Common with direct access & convenient for Haywards Heath. Beautifully presented two double bedroom apartment with two off-street parking spaces, situated in a cul-de-sac, walking distance to Grammar Schools & St John's Recreational Ground l 2 reception rooms connected by an open fireplace with double sided quiet spot just of The Pantiles within walking distance to the mainline station. wood burner l fully equipped kitchen l timber frame glass & brick side return l 3 bedrooms l bathroom l additional 3rd floor attic room l south facing garden

TONBRIDGE £359,950

AEntrance beautifully presented, 1 bedroom, 2nd floor apartment finished to an excellent standard, situated porch to drawing room l kitchen/dining room - French doors to garden l further sitting room - French doors to garden & study/family room l just off the High Street close to the mainline station. master bedroom suite l en-suite bathroom l 3 further bedrooms, 2 with views l family bathroom l parking for several cars l garage l secluded garden

TUNBRIDGE WELLS £292,500

Superb newly refurbished Victorian mid-terrace house providing accommodation over 3 floors. Close to excellent shopping Newly refurbished attractive 2 double bedroom self contained ground floor apartment with private front & rear garden. Set in a quiet facilities & a few minutes walk of the train station offering good service into London in about 45 minutes attractive sitting cul-de-sac & comprisingGARDENS, covered private entrance l 24' hallway l separate desk/study with central TUNBRIDGE WELLS area & storage l spacious sitting room£320,000 SHRUB LANE, BURWASH £625,000 MONTACUTE room l kitchen/breakfast room l 3 bedrooms l study l shower room l bathroom l rear brick paved garden l parking for 2 cars fireplace & doors to conservatory with door to garden l Shaker style kitchen l white bathroom suite with shower 95 year Lease A stylish, 2 bedroom, 1st floor flat with residents parking and walking distance to the Pantiles and A modern, 3 bed, family house of considerable charm and character, occupying a secluded, semi-

town centre.

rural location on the edge of a thriving village.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS519600 01892 519600 519600 FOREST ROW822255 01342 822255 822255 LEWES471471 01273 471471 471471 TUNBRIDGE WELLS | 01892 FOREST ROW LEWES | 01273 TUNBRIDGE WELLS FOREST ROW LEWES | 01342 | 01892 | 01342 | 01273 twells@winkworth.co.uk forestrow@winkworth.co.uk lewes@winkworth.co.uk twells@winkworth.co.uk forestrow@winkworth.co.uk lewes@winkworth.co.uk twells@winkworth.co.uk forestrow@winkworth.co.uk lewes@winkworth.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS | 01892 519600 @WinkworthTwells @WinkworthTwells @WinkworthTwells twells@winkworth.co.uk @WinkworthTwells

winkworth.co.uk winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/tunbridge-wells

@Winkworth_f_row @Winkworth_f_row @Winkworth_f_row

@Winkworth_lewes @Winkworth_lewes @Winkworth_lewes

58100

offices in London throughout the UK

OFFICESOFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS. SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS.

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

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AT A GLANCE MEREWORTH ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Canopied entrance with stained glass feature n Lounge with leaded bay window and Edwardian fireplace housing a living flame gas fire n Dining room featuring Edwardian fireplace with tiled inserts, engineered oak flooring and French doors to garden n Impressive kitchen/breakfast room with Velux windows, two-seater breakfast bar area, engineered oak flooring and French doors to garden n Study with leaded box bay window and engineered oak flooring n Ground floor WC n Master bedrooom with leaded bay windows, Edwardian fireplace and en-suite shower n 3 further bedrooms with Edwardian fireplaces, two on top floor with dormer windows n Family bathroom

Well placed Edwardian family home close to popular schools

n Garden with sandstone patio, decking, lawn and high quality wooden summerhouse

GUIDE PRICE

£675,000-£700,000 CONTACT • Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 701900 • fineandcountry.com

HOMES FOR SALE IN KENT AND EAST SUSSEX

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WADHURST, EAST SUSSEX

GUN HILL, HEATHFIELD, EAST SUSSEX

An immaculate, well-presented and spacious country house perfect for family living and entertaining, in all approximately 5,795 sq. ft.

A handsome late Victorian country house with a wealth of period features, set within beautiful gardens and grounds.

5 BEDROOMS | 4 BATHROOMS | EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES | OUTBUILDING | SET IN

8 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | TENNIS COURT | OUTBUILDINGS | IN ALL ABOUT 28.5 ACRES |

APPROXIMATELY 13 ACRES | EPC C

EPC D

Guide price £2,500,000

Guide price £2,500,000

simon.biddulph@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

simon.biddulph@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

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SANDHURST, KENT

CRANBROOK, KENT

A beautiful 16th century Grade II listed farmhouse in a semi-rural position with wonderful views.

An impressive Grade II Listed family house offering fantastic accommodation.

5 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | VARIOUS OUTBUILDINGS | CRANBROOK SCHOOL CATCHMENT

8 BEDROOMS | 4 BATHROOMS | BEAUTIFUL GARDENS AND GROUNDS | DETACHED DOUBLE

AREA | IN ALL ABOUT 2.59 ACRES

GARAGE | CRANBROOK SCHOOL CATCHMENT AREA

Guide price £1,175,000

Guide price £1,550,000

simon.biddulph@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

simon.biddulph@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 47 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XL 01892 310997 | tunwells@knightfrank.com

knightfrank.co.uk

HOMES FOR SALE IN KENT AND EAST SUSSEX

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FRANT, EAST SUSSEX

WYBOURNE RISE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

A unique new home, built to a high specification and situated in this popular village.

A striking contemporary detached property on the southern edge of Tunbridge Wells.

5 / 6 BEDROOMS | 5 BATHROOMS | OVER 4,580 SQ FT OF LIVING SPACE | ONE OF THREE

4/5 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | BESPOKE DESIGNED KITCHEN AND HIGH QUALITY FITTINGS

INDIVIDUAL PROPERTIES | MAINLINE STATION APPROXIMATELY 2.2 MILES | EPC B

| OVER 3,000 SQ FT | EPC B

Guide price £1,875,000

Guide price £1,300,000

simon.biddulph@knightfrank.com

ross.davies@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

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KINGS AVENUE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BELLS YEW GREEN, EAST SUSSEX

A Regency style semi-detached house built by Berkeley Homes. 5 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | SET WITHIN A PRESTIGIOUS GATED DEVELOPMENT |

Situated in an attractive and secluded position within an exclusive development.

LANDSCAPED GARDEN AND GARAGE | MAINLINE STATION APPROXIMATELY 0.6 MILES | EPC B

5 BEDROOMS | 3 BATHROOMS | ADJOINING WOODLAND | APPROXIMATELY 3 MILES TO TUNBRIDGE WELLS | FRANT STATION APPROXIMATELY 0.5 MILES | EPC D

Guide price £1,195,000

Guide price £1,300,000

ross.davies@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

holly.sibley@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 47 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XL 01892 310997 | tunwells@knightfrank.com

knightfrank.co.uk

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AT A GLANCE DUKES MEADOW CHIDDINGSTONE CAUSEWAY n Semi-detached house built by Rydon Homes in 1992 n Entrance hall with parquet flooring n Reception room overlooking front garden n Dining room with tiled floor and double doors to garden, open to: n Kitchen fitted with a range of real wood units n Downstairs cloakroom n Master bedroom with double sliding door fitted wardrobe n Bedroom 2 with double sliding door fitted cupboard n Bedroom 3/study n Modern bathroom n Level lawned front garden with a crab apple tree n Low-maintenance cottage garden at the rear, with paved areas, pergola, pond and lawn n Driveway offering parking for three cars n Garage with power and light connected

GUIDE PRICE

Modern house with pretty gardens in hamlet next to Penshurst Station

£399,950 CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

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IN PRINT AND ONLINE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK timeslocalnews.co.uk

ARTS & CULTURE TOP EVENTS FOOD & DRINK PUZZLES SPORT

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IT’S TIME FOR THE TALENTZ

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VERDIGRIS’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

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Musical maestro of Maastricht

EXPERIENCE DRIVING AMBITION

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Join in André Rieu’s birthday celebrations

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WELLS ARE TRYING HARD AGAIN

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Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Why Sleeping Beauty is a dream to perform The Talentz puts on its annual pantomime this weekend at the EM Forster Theatre, and this year it’s Sleeping Beauty. Here the troupe’s company director, Debbie King, tells Eileen Leahy all about it…

T

HIS week, the talented Tonbridge-based youth theatre troupe The Talentz is taking over the EM Forster Theatre with its production of Sleeping Beauty. The cast is made up of 40 local children aged between five and 21, all of whom boast varying experience. “Our cast come from different schools across the area and it’s wonderful to see them working together,”

‘This year we were looking for something that would be a little bit different’ says Company Director Debbie King. This is the third year The Talentz has done a panto – they did Jack and The Beanstalk in 2018 and Aladdin in 2019 – and, as in previous years, they have employed the talent of Simon Sladen, the UK’s leading pantomime expert, who has written the script and overseen the proceedings in general. “This year we were looking for something that would be a little bit different for our cast and audiences whilst still keeping that panto magic,”

PHOTOS: Martin Briggs

arts

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YOUNG TALENTS The cast features actors aged from five to 21

continues Debbie. “We actually create all our Talentz pantos from scratch! “Simon has written them for us and we’ve also created our own musical arrangements, medleys and lyrics. This process ensures that each Talentz panto is truly tailored to our cast and audiences. “For example, this year’s production of Sleeping Beauty is set in ‘Talentzia’ and has an amazing slumber medley at the end of act one, including the song ‘Ain’t No Mattress High Enough’,” she laughs. As soon as the curtain is down on the last night of each panto, work starts immediately on the next – pretty impressive considering The Talentz puts on a number of other annual productions, too,

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Wicked Productions’ Peter Pan pantomime for the past few months, The Talentz have been rehearsing at the TN2 Community Centre and are now very much looking forward to performing to audiences in the theatre, which is located at Tonbridge School.

LIVING THE DREAM The Talentz troupe

Careers

including a March showcase, an April musical and an Edinburgh Fringe production. But it’s not just on stage where all the action happens. The Talentz experience is an allencompassing one for the children taking part. “Backstage we work with a range of students who want to experience everything from make-up and stage management to lighting,

costume design and creation,” explains Debbie. She goes on to say that each production naturally comes with its own challenges, but that’s far from problematic: “That’s actually the great thing about working with such young performers. It’s so rewarding to see how they overcome each test and come out not only as stronger performers, but more confident, and

then carry those things through to future productions and auditions.” Given that the EM Forster Theatre has been fully occupied by

What does Debbie think the audience will enjoy most about seeing The Talentz’ production of Sleeping Beauty? “I really think that our full youth cast’s phenomenal hard work and talent will shine through. “Lots of our principals from this production are working towards drama school auditions this year in order to progress their careers, and seeing their work onstage is incredible, but also seeing them working with our younger cast members really highlights what a family we create within Talentz.” They will be raising money for Fegans charity during the run of Sleeping Beauty, which is on this week from January 10-12. Tickets cost from £16 and there will be additional matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday. For further information, visit emftheatre.com or thetalentz.com

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Going Out

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

goingout 7 days of activities

By Jerome Bowman

BIRTHDAY CONCERT See André Rieu at the Odeon

Jangles the Jester for a tale of exploding cakes, magic wands and a devilish dragon. With a West End band accompanying the show, you can get your final panto kick before the new year truly gets underway. Tickets cost £16 or £13 for concessions. For more information and to book, go online to emftheatre.com SUNDAY For avid bookworms, why not combine a visit to Scotney Castle with seeing Betsy’s Bookshop, its second-hand emporium of tomes, which is open every day? Books are donated by visitors and can be bought for a bargain price. For more information, go to nationaltrust.org.uk MONDAY Join the TWUNTS in The George pub for their relaxed Ukulele Jam at 8pm. All levels of

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

experience, including an irrational phobia of stringed instruments, are welcome. Grab a drink at the bar and join in with the group on a huge variety of songs. Attendance is free. For more information, visit twukulele.com TUESDAY The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Alban Berg’s seminal avant-garde opera Wozzeck is being live-screened at Picture House Uckfield today at 2pm. South African artist William Kentridge has added strong visual displays to this powerful inter-war opera about militarism, callousness and social exploitation. Berg’s use of atonality and unconventional harmony combine with these themes to make an unsettling and powerful narrative, and this production has been critically praised. Tickets cost £15 and can be booked online at picturehouseuckfield.com

MOATWORTHY Bodiam Castle is a great place for a winter walk

WEDNESDAY Musical maestro André Rieu turned 70 Years Young in the autumn and celebrated with a lavish party. The good news is you can still attend (but you won’t get to play pass the parcel or musical chairs). At 3pm this afternoon the Odeon will be screening a recording of the special concert held in Rieu’s magnificent castle in Maastricht, where he also talked to Classic FM’s Charlotte Hawkins about his life and music. Tickets cost £25.75 and can be booked at odeon.co.uk This month is the start of a new tour at Ightham Mote at Ivy Hatch, near Sevenoaks, which gives visitors a chance to uncover the hidden stories of the servants who once worked at the magnificent medieval manor house. There will also be a chance to look around the Grade Ilisted building. With a range of tour dates on offer from January 8-31, this is one not to miss for history lovers. For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/ ightham-mote THURSDAY If you’ve got green fingers, why not join the Scrub a Dub Dub volunteer gardening in Hilbert Woods from 10am to 3pm? Organised by the Kent High Weald Partnership, the day will be about controlled bramble ALBAN BERG’S MASTERPIECE See Wozzeck at the Picture House Uckfield

bashing (without chainsaws!) Make sure you wear suitable clothing and footwear. For more information on this and other volunteering days in Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, go to fogh.org.uk Join the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society in the Royal Wells Hotel for a talk entitled Seen from the Common by Dr Philip Whitbourn. The 250-acre Common is one of the town’s older and most cherished landmarks, and Dr Whitbourn will be considering how the buildings surrounding it create a backdrop, and will show his own sketches and historical etchings. The talk starts at 7.15pm and non-members are welcome. For more information, go online to thecivicsociety.org FRIDAY Pack your bags, prepare the sleigh and wake the huskies for more bracing Winter Walks out in the countryside! There are plenty of enjoyable free roaming routes to choose from in our area, but if you want something more organised, then have a look at the variety of walks on offer at National Trust properties such as Scotney and Bodiam Castles, Sissinghurst and Ightham Mote. For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

PICK OF THE WEEK FILM: 1917

Picture House Uckfield Friday January 10 Set at the height of the First World War, two young privates are tasked with delivering

a message that could save the lives of over 1,000 men, taking them deep behind enemy lines. Skyfall Director Sam Mendes’ new film has been lauded for its emotional performances and immersive atmosphere. Ticket prices vary, so for more information visit picturehouseuckfield.com

SATURDAY Youth theatre group The Talentz are returning to the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge with their production of Sleeping Beauty tonight and tomorrow. Join Princess Aurora, Nanny Knickerbocker and JoJo

Have you got an event on

in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge or the surrounding area? Whether it’s trampolining, experimental theatre or a craft fair, we are always looking to cover all the exciting things on offer locally.

CONTACT US Please send information about your event, the times, dates and any pictures you have to jeromebowman@markerstudy.com and eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

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Going Out

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Anna Howie, The Good Ship Band, Sissy Saturday Closed for a private party Sunday Marie White and guests MUSICSTATION Bank Street, Tonbridge Booking essential For information, call 01732 350629 Thursday & Friday 8pm-9.30pm Adult band workshop, all levels welcome

live music With Paul Dunton

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HE local music scene is a little quieter than normal as we head towards the middle of January, however there are still some wonderful gigs to be enjoyed and plenty of reasons to go out and enjoy some superb live music on your doorstep! Tonight [Wednesday], local acts Anna Howie, The Good Ship Band and Sissy are all performing at The Grey Lady Music Lounge. Saturday night has plenty on offer with popular local singer-songwriter Steffan James at The Beau Nash

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM The Common Event information and tickets at twforum.co.uk Saturday Bowie Night – 4 Years on: A Celebration THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Free entry

The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… paulduntonandguests.com

Tavern and The Forum hosting their annual celebration of the late pop legend David Bowie. The event is a fitting way to honour the life and career of the iconic musician and carries a wonderful atmosphere. Close out the weekend in style this Sunday evening with Glastonbury’s emerging music talent winner Marie White at The Grey Lady. Monday night sees the first TWUNT Ukulele Jam session of 2020 at The George pub, and Tuesday evening offers the excellent Three Amigos at The Punch & Judy pub in Tonbridge.

Marie White

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Music from 8pm till late Monday TWUNT: Ukulele Jam Session THE PUNCH & JUDY PUB St Stephen’s Road, Tonbridge Free entry Music from 8pm till late Tuesday The Three Amigos

Bowie Night Music from 8pm till late Saturday Steffan James THE ROYAL OAK PUB Prospect Road Free entry, music from 9pm Saturday The Damfinos THE GEORGE PUB Mount Ephraim Free entry

Steffan James

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food

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Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Meet a talented local master chef Culinary whizz Scott Goss saw the end of last year out on a high thanks to being crowned Kent Life’s Chef of the Year. Eileen Leahy met the talented Great British Menu star, who was trained by the late Gary Rhodes, to find out what the first year of running his own successful restaurant – Verdigris in Tonbridge – has been like…

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CHEERS! Scott Goss (right) with barman Jim Harrison

HEF Scott Goss is a veteran of the foodie scene, having worked in it for the past two decades. Cutting his culinary teeth at Thanet College in Broadstairs, where he trained from the age of 16, the Kentish chef then spent four years in London working in a number of high profile restaurants, including City Rhodes and Rhodes in the Square under the mentorship of Gary Rhodes. With his star firmly rising, he then went to join the kitchens of Anton Edelmann at the Allium in Bath and Robert Spencer at The Admiralty, London, honing his craft in the

disciplines of French, European and modern British cuisine. In 2007 he decided to move back to Kent and took up a job as Head Chef at The Swan in West Malling, where he quickly gained two prestigious AA rosettes. There he met one of the restaurant’s partners, Pete Cornwell, and when entrepreneur Pete decided to establish I’ll Be Mother, a new independent restaurant group, Scott joined him as Creative Director, overseeing the menus at The Beacon in Tunbridge Wells and The Swan in Tenterden. He was also given the kitchen restaurant The Twenty Six in Southborough to launch in 2014. Scott used his culinary Midas

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

TEAMWORK Scott with his staff at Verdigris

touch there and enjoyed a very successful few years turning The Twenty Six into one of the area’s must-visit restaurants. In 2017, it made it into the much revered foodie bible the Michelin Guide, which described its food offering as ‘satisfying, seasonal modern dishes’ adding ‘you’ll wish you could try everything on the menu’. But after working for many others over the years, Scott decided it was high time for him to branch out on his own, and so in 2018 he opened Verdigris in Tonbridge after ‘an opportunity’ came his way. “I enjoy the challenges of opening a new restaurant,” says Scott, and so far his gastro kitchen, which is located on the bridge in the town overlooking the river Medway, has been very well received. “The number one comment we keep getting is that Tonbridge has been crying out for a place like this,” laughs Scott, who has brought back to life the original building’s art deco character.

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Step inside and you’ll enjoy seeing the oversized palms, grand gilt mirrors, bistro-style tables and ornate panelling. “Food is the beating heart of Verdigris,” he continues. “We believe that what we eat impacts directly on our wellbeing. We also believe that a respect for life, a sense of gratitude, and a loving touch contribute to the taste and health-giving properties of food. “Some of our ingredients are locally foraged – for example, a couple who have recently moved to the area have just discovered truffles under one of their trees – Kentish truffles! I’m also a keen forager, so I like to pick ingredients from the local woodland and hedgerows on my walks to work.” On the Verdigris à la carte menu, which Scott says is constantly evolving and appeals to a variety of palates, you’ll discover delicacies such as fresh oysters and 80-dayaged rib of beef alongside smoked aubergine risotto, crab and tomato brioche and breast and loin of lamb with artichoke and black olives. Then there’s the Scott Goss tasting menu, on which you’ll find smaller versions of some of the à la carte menu accompanied by a variety of perfectly partnered wines. As you’d expect from a chef of Scott’s calibre, exceptional taste and exquisite presentation are key. And he’s certainly achieving those goals, given how word is getting around about the impressive quality of a dining experience at Verdigris. “One couple came down from Manchester when we first opened specifically to eat in the restaurant,” says Scott, who appeared on the BBC Two show The Great British Menu last year. “The #RemySprint (Rémy Sommelier Pâtissier Rooted In Talent) contest has also been great for getting our name out there,” says Scott, referring to the global competition he and his barman,

Food & Drink

Jim Harrison, entered in April last year, finding themselves joint finalists a few months later. The contest is run by Rémy Martin, one of the world’s finest cognac houses, and its aim is to ‘shine a light on the humble dessert moment’. So Scott and Jim got their creative thinking caps on and made an unforgettable sweet. Their efforts saw them win, along with four other establishments, which included Sketch and The Connaught in London. “The inspiration for our dessert was a walk through a Kentish field inspired by mother nature and our own home terroir,” explains Scott when describing his incredible creation, which is split into two parts. First up is an elderflower, wood sorrel and tabory sorbet, served with wild strawberry consume (inside a round transparent glass). The second part is a white chocolate and pea truffle with tempura elderflower designed to be enjoyed with Rémy Martin XO neat. Scott had the winning dessert on his menu right up until Christmas, and later this month he and Jim, along with the other finalists, will head off to Cognac to enjoy a gourmet tour. And as if this wasn’t enough, at the end of last year Scott was also awarded Kent Life’s Chef of the Year at its annual awards ceremony. “That was really lovely recognition for a team that has given me so much over the past 12 months,” he said on receiving his award. Impressive competition wins and accolades aside, Scott is clearly loving running his own place, and is full of enthusiasm at being at the heart of a great fledgling foodie offering outside of London. “The current food scene in Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells is the strongest it’s ever been,” he says. “There are some fantastic eateries and we certainly love what we do.” Viva Verdigris!

Life&Times

Verdigris’s Ethos n Respect

and gratitude for life in every form n Harvest sustainable ALWAYS n Free range, organic, local and wild caught a priority n Minimum waste possible n Never forget that Mother Nature is, and always will be, the true artist

SCOTT’S SUPPLIERS n Tim at Oliver Greens in Rusthall n Sankey’s Fishmongers in Tonbridge n Chapmans Fishmongers in Sevenoaks

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Motors

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Motoring News

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

This week… n Wheely good idea n Cheaper Grandland n New GTS Porsche

New freewheeling hub to help rescue EV breakdowns AN INNOVATIVE new piece of technology has been introduced to help broken-down electric vehicles [EVs] and four-wheel-drives be towed without powertrain damage. Currently, it isn’t possible to tow some vehicles – such as many EVs and 4x4s – along with cars dealing with seized brakes or failed wheel bearings. Many manufacturers recommend that EVs shouldn’t be towed as the car’s electric motor is mechanically linked to the wheels and can’t be placed in neutral – so towing one can cause lasting damage to the car’s powertrain. However, Steve Ives, Chief Engineer for the AA, has come up

with a solution. It’s a freewheeling hub that rescue patrols can fix to the rear wheels of a broken down vehicle to allow it to be towed, thus saving time by avoiding the need for a low-loader. The system – first created in wood form in Ives’ shed at home – is now being piloted by 200 AA patrols across the country, before a full rollout to all 2,100 patrols by June. Ives said: “I love the challenge of coming up with solutions to seemingly impossible situations. “I worked on the prototype for many hours in my shed at night and eventually crafted a wooden prototype. This has now been put into production and is working well.”

Front-wheel-drive option reduces entry price for Grandland X Hybrid VAUXHALL has introduced a new front-wheel-drive variant of its Grandland X Hybrid to give buyers a more attainable entry into the range. While the all-wheel-drive version utilises a twin-motor setup – with one at the front and one at the rear of the car – the front-wheel-drive variant ditches that rearward motor. It enters the market priced from £32,390, coming in underneath the four-wheel-drive’s £35,590 entry price. The vehicle uses the same 177bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the standard car, but the removal of the second electric motor sees the outright power drop from 296bhp to 222bhp. This means that the car’s 0-60mph time drops by 1.6 seconds on the four-wheel-drive version to 8.6

seconds. Flat out, it will do 140mph. According to Vauxhall, the car’s efficiency has improved. The manufacturer claims 15mpg more than the car’s four-wheel-drive stablemate at 192mpg, while emissions sit at 25g/km CO2. The all-electric range has been improved, too, meaning 34 miles of motor-free driving should be possible. This latest model retains three powertrain modes and regenerative braking, along with a standard-fit 3.7kW on-board charger. An optional 7.4kWh charger can be fitted to help reduce charging times, however. The first examples of the frontwheel-drive Grandland X Hybrid are expected to arrive in dealerships during April.

Porsche introduces new Macan model

PORSCHE has revealed a new GTS version of its Macan SUV that is handling-orientated. Priced from £58,816 and available to order now, the GTS is powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 engine developing 375bhp. This puts it in the middle of the S and Turbo-badged models. Porsche claims the GTS will achieve the sprint from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds and top out at 162mph. The car also gets features such as Porsche’s Active Suspension Management [PASM], alongside a 15mm drop in ride height compared to the rest of the Macan range. However, it can be dropped by a further 10mm via an optional air suspension package. New 20-inch alloy wheels and larger cast iron brakes are among the upgrades. The GTS receives redesigned side skirts as well as a new front and rear trim. And a darkened finish has been applied to the headlight bezels and rear light bar. Extra features include a Bose surround sound system, wireless smartphone charging and a rear-view camera. Inside, key areas have been finished in Alcantara, with brushed aluminium trim sections. The seats are unique to the GTS and get eight-way adjustment and boosted side support.

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Life&Times

Recruitment

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

WITH THE

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

CODEWORD 4

14

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U

5

6

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24 22

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1 15

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3

21 22

16 1

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3

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16 12

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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.

5 4

4 8 9 2

Codeword:

3 9 3 6 2 5

5 7

9

3 6

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

1

12 3

3

5

16

25 19

19

15 9

19

3

15 15

12

26 21

26

2 21

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23 6

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2 5

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

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DIFFICULTY RATING:★✩✩✩

2

4

9

8

2 3 1

1 3

2 1

6 5 7 9

2

6 5 © 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

1

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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★✩

CLASSIFIEDS

Life&Times

Puzzles

In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply. Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.

Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue

P U N J A B L U R O T R OO V E R Y O E I S K R U B B L E U U B A N I S H U A H O C A L F L K S E GM E E E T H E S I S

L I P S T I E R

I Q U H I Z R E S L A L Y W T A R I N

G T L A E N D S

U O R A P I E U S R E I N S N A X Y T E A I L L L E E A D

Sudoku:

4 3 6 9 2 7 1 8 5

2 1 5 8 6 3 4 7 9

8 9 7 1 5 4 2 6 3

1 5 9 7 8 2 6 3 4

7 4 3 6 1 5 9 2 8

6 8 2 3 4 9 7 5 1

9 6 4 2 3 8 5 1 7

3 8 4 1 5 2 7 6 9

9 4 6 5 1 8 2 3 7

8 9 7 3 4 6 1 2 5

3 7 1 5 9 6 8 4 2

5 2 8 4 7 1 3 9 6

Jigsaw Sudoku:

1 2 9 4 7 5 3 8 6

5 1 2 6 8 9 4 7 3

7 6 1 2 9 3 5 4 8

6 5 3 8 2 7 9 1 4

2 7 8 9 3 4 6 5 1

4 3 5 7 6 1 8 9 2

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

46

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Sport

FOR EVENstories MOREto: NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.ukor newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Please send sports newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Old Redcliffians 10 Tonbridge Juddians 21

RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS retained their slender lead at the top of National Two South after the Christmas break with victory against a struggling Old Reds side in Bristol. Despite their lowly league position the home defence was sound against concerted Tonbridge pressure. In one of their rare incursions into TJ territory, they were awarded a penalty 30 metres out which Ashley Groves duly slotted.

Converted Despite their dominance TJs seemed unable to hold onto the ball in the last few strides to the line and they remained scoreless at the half-time break. The visitors finally managed to get on the scoreboard when winger Noah Ferdinand combined with centre Finlay Coxon-Smith down the righthand touchline and the latter ran

in to score a converted try. Having taken the lead, they extended it just three minutes later when centre Duncan Tout broke with Ferdinand and Coxon-Smith in support. Once more Coxon-Smith was the try-scorer and Will Robinson added the extras. Despite the change of emphasis ORs did not give up, and they began to turn the tables with some flowing rugby of their own. When a penalty was recycled, wing-forward and captain Dan Fry cut through at speed to touch down for a converted try, reducing the arrears to 14-10. TJs had to respond quickly and from a line-out near the OR line lock forward Rory McHugh, with the help of his colleagues, forced his way through to touch down, Robinson converting. The victory keeps TJs just one point ahead of second-placed Henley with Taunton five points off the pace. Next TJs take on Bournemouth for their first ever visit to The Slade on Saturday, January 11.

PHOTO: Adam Hookway

Strong second-half show keeps TJs in top spot

FORWARD MARCH Rory McHugh forces his way over

Returning stars help to restore Wells’ form Tunbridge Wells 38 Brighton 5

TAKING CHARGE Mike Hathaway looks to exploit a gap

PHOTO: Bruce Elliot

By Graham Withers RUGBY: AFTER two disappointing and heavy defeats in December, Tunbridge Wells started the new year in much brighter fashion. With Wells’ next three games in the London and South East Premier Division being against teams in the top four, this was a match they could ill-afford to lose. The home side were in charge from the start and were rewarded with a penalty which fly-half Frank Reynolds converted from 30 metres after 16 minutes.

Control After Wells conceded a succession of penalties themselves, it was Brighton who had the lion’s share of possession in the

Wells Ladies section ready to expand in new decade RUGBY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ladies’ section is expanding its player base in support of the nationwide #thisgirlcan campaign to increase female participation in sport. Wells have already established successful squads at Under-13, 15 and 18 level, working closely with Sevenoaks RFC in encouraging girls to play the game. This month the club will launch an Under-11s squad for girls aged eight to 11 (school years four to six) with plans to start a senior Ladies’ squad later in the season.

Progression Simon Parsons, Director of Wells Ladies’ Rugby, said: “Tunbridge Wells Ladies have had great success with our existing age groups with over 60 registered players – playing in Kent League and Cup competitions. “We have girls playing for Kent at county level and players who have gone on to represent Harlequins,

Cambridge in the Varsity game and England.” He added: “As a club, we want to build on that success and introduce an Under-11s squad so we can engage girls earlier in their rugby journey. “We will also be introducing a senior squad, which will mean the club can offer a full range of rugby and encourage more girls to get into the game and have a clear progression in rugby as part of the #thisgirlcan campaign.” Tammy Samuel, the Ladies Under-13 Head Coach and former England International, said: “No experience is required. If you were inspired by the recent World Cup or just want to come and give rugby a go at a friendly club, come and join us anyone is welcome. It’s all about having fun and experiencing the exciting sport of rugby.” Trial sessions for the Under-11s will be held at St Marks Recreation Ground on Sunday January 12 and Sunday January 26 from 10-11.30am For more information contact ladies@twrfc.com or go to twrfc.com/team/ladies

second quarter but the defence proved robust. The game was very open at this stage, which suited Wells. Mike Doherty’s eye for a miss-pass saw him find winger Angus Horne and he crossed for his first try at this level.

‘Wells’ scrum was dominant and deliberate’ This was converted on 35 minutes to give the home side a hard-earned but welldeserved 10-0 lead at half-time. They were further rewarded early in the second half when Reynolds put centre Mike Doherty into a midfield gap and he burst clear from 30 metres for a converted try. On 48 minutes Horne came off his wing for an incisive run and slipped a pass to the other centre, Rich Murray, who

THIS GIRL CAN Sophie Raine breaks a tackle

celebrated his return from long-term injury with a try that was converted by Reynolds. It was somewhat against the run of play when Brighton’s full-back Maxx Morris showed fine footwork and good pace to cross for an unconverted try after 55 minutes. The home team resumed control, however, and as Reynolds made a thrusting run his sublime offload allowed Mike Hathaway, also back from injury, to score the bonus point try on the hour-mark. After a deliberate knock-on, the visitors were reduced to 14 men by a yellow card. Wells’ scrum was dominant and a deliberate collapse near the visitors’ line saw the referee award a penalty try with four minutes left. Wells, in seventh place, now face a tough task at fourth-placed Hertford on Saturday (January 11, kick-off 2pm).

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday January 8 | 2020

Turner tips the balance to lift Tonbridge out of danger zone

Sport

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TRIPLE CROWN Reuel Powell-Downey completes his hat-trick by lobbing the keeper and celebrates

Tonbridge Angels 3 Chippenham Town 2 By Jim Rowe FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS moved out of the relegation zone in National League South after a hard-fought win on a heavy, energy sapping pitch. The first period was dominated by injuries, which resulted in the home side using all their substitutes by the 37th minute. Tonbridge went ahead as early as the second minute when Roberto Ratti laid the ball off intelligently for Jason Williams, who made no mistake with a fine curling shot. Chippenham worked hard to get back into the game and deservedly equalised in the 32nd minute when Tom Owen-Evans took advantage of some hesitation in the defence with a tap-in at the far post.

Prolific Powell-Downey dominates and hits quick hat-trick for Rustics Rusthall 5 Greenways 0

PHOTO: David Couldridge

INFLUENTIAL Angels’ new signing Roberto Ratti The much-needed win sees Angels move up to 18th place in the table, though only one point separates them from 21st place. On New Year’s Day Tonbridge came away from the Gallagher Stadium with a point after a 2-2 draw with local rivals Maidstone United. The game saw a Tonbridge debut for striker Ratti, who arrives from Dover Athletic, while two other Angels players opened their account, Williams and Donovan. Former Arsenal player Gavin Hoyte gave Stones the lead after three minutes. Williams equalised on 19 minutes but the hosts restored their lead eight minutes later through Iffy Allen. The Angels deservedly levelled with 13 minutes remaining when Maidstone failed to clear their lines and Donovan fired a hard, low shot into the net.

Richardson clan are off to a flier By Andrew Deighton ATHLETICS: THE Richardson family started the decade strongly for Tunbridge Wells Harriers at the Lamberhurst 5k race at Bewl Water on New Year’s Day. Stella Richardson claiming first place in her categeory F60 in a time of 30min 13sec, while husband Peter claimed first place in the M65 section. In the event’s 10k race, Dave Hadaway finished in ninth place overall (39.47) giving him second place in the M50 category, while Ana-Maria Green (46:36) was just outside the top 50 but placed as first F50. A strong contingent of Harriers competed in the Kent County Cross Country Championships at Brands Hatch. The in-form Billy Hobbs got his year off to a strong start, finishing in sixth place in the 12k men’s race, followed by Patrick Bareham with a top 50 placing.

Andy Howey ran strongly to finish just outside the top 50 but claimed second place in the M55 category. Tom Woolley, Simon Howden and Geoff Turner making up the six to score for the team, which came seventh overall. Jillian Holford led the Harrier women home in the 8k race, closely followed by Lizzie Fox, and Michele Bradshaw claimed an excellent first place in the F60 category. Dillon Hobbs produced an excellent run to finish 13th in the Under-17 race, in his first appearance in the championships. At the traditional Penshurst five-mile cross country race the Harriers occupied ten of the first 20 places, with Patrick Bareham claiming a fine fourth place in his second race of the weekend. Mike King (M40), Andy Howey (M50) and Tev Austin (M60) all led their categories, while Gemma Stilliard was the first female Harrier home and also led the F40 category.

Free taster sessions for starters TRIATHLON: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Triathlon Club are hosting two free taster sessions as part of British Triathlon’s #TriJanuary. The initiative aims to encourage as many people as possible to swim, cycle and run their way through the month. The local club will hold a coached swim on January 17 and a combined bike and run on January 26, both at the Tunbridge Wells Sports

Centre on St John’s Road. Adam Dennis said: “It doesn’t matter if you’re building up to your first race or just want to try something new, come and meet a friendly and supportive club.” Both sessions are free but booking is necessary - visit tunbridgewellstriathlonclub.org for more information.

Skilful They were awarded a penalty after Tommy Lawrence’s run into the box was halted by a challenge from behind. Leading scorer Luke Adams, recovered from the groin injury he picked up last week, stepped up to fire home the spot kick for his 18th goal of the season. Rusthall doubled their lead on 42 minutes when

PHOTO: Brendan Kemp

Thunderbolt With the first half entering stoppage time Ben Greenhalgh forced a good save from the Chippenham keeper Will Puddy. The resultant corner was cleared but only as far as D’Sean Theobalds, whose thunderbolt from the edge of the area gave Puddy no chance, and the hosts went in 2-1 up at the break. On 53 minutes Owen-Evans turned provider for Chippenham, putting through Karnell Chambers who rounded Jonny Henly for the equaliser. The visitors weren’t on level terms for long, however, with Angels’ James Folkes crossing for Joe Turner to head neatly past Puddy at the back post. Both sides had further chances until late drama saw straight red cards shown first to Angels’ Harry Donovan for a reckless challenge and then Chippenham’s Ryan Case for a second bookable offence after striking out at Ratti. Angels manager Steve McKimm said: “We’ve finished with eight fit players and we’ll have to see over the next few days how serious those injuries are. “Nevertheless, the players were superb today and ran themselves into the ground to get that win.”

FOOTBALL: A HAT-TRICK inside 16 minutes by Reuel Powell-Downey on his return from injury ensured the Rustics got back to winning ways against Greenways from Gravesend. Following last week’s disappointing defeat manager Jimmy Anderson rang the changes and Rusthall immediately played with a positive outlook and slick passing. But despite dominating for long periods the home side had to wait until the 32nd minute to take the lead.

the recalled Charlie Clover showed great composure in the area with a skilful finish. Greenways had yet to have a shot on target, and Rusthall continued to dominate after the interval with wing-back Louis Anderson causing problems. Just before the hour-mark Powell-Downey grabbed his first goal with a neat finish following excellent build-up play. Three minutes later came the goal of the game as one-touch football from the Rustics left the visiting defence in disarray and Powell-Downey calmly rounded the keeper. On 75 minutes the Croydon-based striker completed his second hat-trick of the season when he cheekily chipped the keeper for his 16th goal of the campaign. The win keeps the Rustics in third place in the Southern Counties East League Division One, three points behind leaders Rochester United with three games in hand. Next they entertain Croydon at the Jockey Farm Stadium Slade on Saturday (January 11, kick-off 3pm).

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Please call for a brochure or visit our showrooms Unit 9, Chart Farm, Seal Chart Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0ES Tel: 01732 762682 www.rencraft.co.uk

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