Times of Tunbridge Wells 23rd June 2021

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

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Battle of budget supermarkets it s ’ t a h W hots up with new stores planned worth?

By Richard Williams

BUDGET supermarket giant Aldi wants to open three new stores in the area in Tunbridge Wells, Paddock Wood and Cranbrook.

The German retailer already has a store at Great Lodge Retail Park in the unit formerly occupied by Toys R Us on Longfield Road. It was opened in 2019 and was the first budget store in Tunbridge Wells followed by rival Lidl on Linden Park Road this year.

In total Aldi has earmarked 16 locations in Kent for new branches.

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Supermarket rivals Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda all have large stores in the town and there are several ‘express’ branches. Aldi’s expansion is part of its ingoing £1billion plans where it aims ‘to open a new store in the UK every week’, boosting its existing 900 branches to around 1,000.

Other locations in the county the retailer is looking at include Ashford, Broadstairs, Canterbury, Chatham, Dover, Ebbsfleet, Folkestone, Gillingham, Gravesend, Maidstone, Margate, Rochester and Tenterden.

No opening dates have been announced but Aldi says each site should be around 1.5 acres and able to accommodate a 20,000 sq ft store with around 100 parking spaces.

Demand Ciaran Aldridge, National Property Director at the supermarket giant, said: “We have been investing in Britain for more than 30 years now, but we know that there are still areas that either do not have an Aldi at all, or that need another store to meet customer demand.

“Shoppers are increasingly looking to get unbeatable prices on their weekly shop without compromising on quality.

That’s why, more so than ever, we’re keen to explore all opportunities to open new stores across the country.”

Lidl has also been expanding across the UK and is investing around £1.3billion in new sites.

The German budget rival hopes to have around 1,000 stores in operation over the next few years. It struck a deal with Homebase in Tunbridge Wells and has been operating in one half of their Broadwater Lane site since February.

Hybrid working sees AXA sell two town centre offices

By Robert Forrester THE largest local employer, AXA Health, insists it’s still committed to working in Tunbridge Wells even though it’s closing two offices and pulling 1,000 staff out of the town centre.

Those staff are normally based at Phillips House and Eynsham House in Crescent Road which are now being sold.

Since Covid-19 struck, the firm’s 2,000

staff have been taking a hybrid approach to work, with a mix of home and office working.

AXA says it is building on what they have learned during the pandemic, during which they operated successfully by providing its workforce with resources and support to work effectively from home, and are making the change permanent.

In a briefing to staff last week, the firm’s

CEO, Tracey Garrad said that by adopting a blend of home and office working permanently, it reduces the need for all of its Tunbridge Wells sites.

She said even with the same number of employees, they will need fewer people to be in the office at any one time, paving the way to sell some offices.

See more on page 2

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

this week… Refuse contractors are still rubbish at doing their job – and that’s official

By Richard Williams

ALL SYSTEMS ROW: The Tunbridge Wells Hospital worker and her team who are taking on the ‘toughest rowing race in the world’ covering over 2,000 miles around Great Britain next year P10

REBOOT: Crossways Community has launched a new project to help local young people to improve their mental resilience post lockdown P14 STEAKOUT: The Times visits the latest arrival on the town’s foodie scene, STEAK in Chapel Place to see what it has on offer and how it caters for vegetarians P30 CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard.moore@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richard.williams@onemediauk.co.uk |01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lee.smith@onemediauk.co.uk.co.uk ADVERTISING 01892 779580 advertising@onemediauk.co.uk FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews www.timeslocalnews.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

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‘We will continue to apply pressure to ensure the contract terms are delivered’ Councils telling the waste company ‘the time for excuses and apologies is over’ after missing up to 1,000 collections a day.

The company promised changes with 20 additional trucks and 50 extra workers, although services have not improved.

Now the two local authorities have issued a joint statement explaining to residents that they are still in talks with the waste contractor to resolve poor service issues.

Council leaders Tom Dawlings from TWBC and Nicolas Heslop of TMBC said: “We are very concerned about the issues that some residents are experiencing with the waste

BEHIND Waste collections services are under fire collection service and apologise to those who are affected.

“We are in discussions with our contractor, Urbaser, about resolving these problems and delivering the waste collection and recycling service our residents expect.

Pressure “Both councils expect Urbaser to meet its contractual obligations in full and we are issuing financial penalties for poor performance where appropriate and in accordance with the terms of the contract.

“We will continue to apply pressure at senior

levels at Urbaser to ensure the contract terms are delivered and will consider all options available to achieve that objective.”

It is understood the letter has been sent following concerns raised by residents in Tonbridge, where bin collections are two or three days behind schedule in some areas.

According to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, there have been 1,451 reports of missed collections in just this month alone.

The situation hasn’t been as bad in Tunbridge Wells, although there were 865 missed collections recorded at the authority last month.

Urbaser was contacted for comment but did not respond.

AXA pulls 1,000 workers out of the town Continued from front page AXA Health also has offices in Hawkenbury and on Vale Road in the town centre.

The insurer says the capital released from the sale of the two buildings in Crescent Road will be invested in refurbishing and upgrading the firm’s remaining properties to enable them to accommodate the new way of working.

Tracy Garrad said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has had tremendous impact on the way we work and been a powerful catalyst for change to a smarter, more agile way working.

because they cannot work from home due to space or family set-up.

“Many people who work in Tunbridge Wells live locally and, with the plethora of flexible office

solutions in and around the town and thousands of former commuters, there is a healthy catchment of workers that also translates into shoppers and diners.”

FOR SALE Phillips House is no longer needed by AXA

‘There’s a healthy catchment of workers that also translates into shoppers and diners’ “Our commitment to the Tunbridge Wells area is unchanged and remains strong and we look forward to building on over 60 years of success in the town.”

She added that the sale of the buildings will not affect the number of people the company employs in Tunbridge Wells – most of whom live in or near to the town, although around 1,000 workers who used to commute to the town centre every day, will now be based either at home or at one of AXA’s other sites.

Collaboration Ross Feeney, CEO of Tunbridge Wells Together, said while in isolation, the loss of 1,000 people from the town centre was ‘bad news’, he added: “We need to take into consideration all those now working more regularly more locally.

“Hybrid Working is the buzz word post pandemic. No one is quite sure what this means en masse, the reality is it is probably different per business depending on how their staff prefer to work – many want to be in an office for collaboration and social wellbeing or simply

PHOTO: Lottie Bulmer

ROCK ON: How the Black Deer festival will bounce back from yet another postponement due to the extension of lockdown restrictions P6

BIN contractor Urbaser has been told to improve its service in an open letter written to residents

by Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge councils.

The waste management company is under fire for the number of missed bin collections in the two boroughs.

Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council [TMBC] and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] handed Urbaser the joint contract to empty the bins for both boroughs, worth around £3million a year from each authority, in March 2019.

In January last year, Urbaser was fined by both TMBC and TWBC over its service, with the

AXA SALE FREES UP COUNCIL CAR PARK FOR DEVELOPMENT THE decision by AXA Health to sell the two properties, means a town centre car park leased from the Council to the insurer is also expected to be surplus to requirements.

The Mount Pleasant surface level car park that is used by AXA employees during the week had initially been earmarked for redevelopment for the now defunct Calverley Square theatre project.

The site, which sits on the edge of Calverley Grounds, already has planning permission for commercial office space and is now expected to be sold if AXA decide they do not need it.

A cross-party group of councillors formed after the demise of the Calverley Square project have said they would like to see any money raised from the site put towards a new plan for the Town Hall.

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

NEWS IN BRIEF

Bank staff alert police to roof repair conman A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of fraud after quick-thinking bank staff called the police when a homeowner was coerced into drawing out money over a roofing scam.

Last Thursday [June 17] a 54-year-old man is said to have visited a house in Tunbridge Wells town centre and told the owner the roof needed replacing at a cost of £14,000.

He then drove the householder, a man in his 60s, to a bank where the homeowner tried to withdraw a quantity of cash to pay for the repairs.

Staff at the bank became suspicious and, after the police were called, the suspected fraudster, who is from the Tunbridge Wells area, was arrested.

He was later bailed to return to the police station on July 12, pending further enquiries.

Tonbridge leader quits THE leader of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council is to step down after nine years.

Nicolas Heslop was first appointed Conservative group leader in the West Kent borough and council leader in May 2012.

He said: “I am proud of the many achievements we have made across the borough in the past nine years area and how we have met the many challenges that the authority has faced.”

He added: “The time commitment now for any council leader is far greater and more challenging than ever before. During my nine years as leader, it has escalated four-fold.

“I left full-time employment in December 2019 to pursue new opportunities, and I now wish to have more time to pursue these in my own time.

“So I will be standing down as Conservative group leader and therefore as borough council leader at the next council meeting on July 13.”

Rail fare reservations TUNBRIDGE WELLS MP Greg Clark has welcomed the new flexible ticketing system after campaigning for several years, but has reservations about its implementation.

Speaking exclusively to the Times Mr Clark says the new system does not work for commuters travelling just two days a week into London.

“I think that needs to be changed with a discount available for that pattern of commuting too,” he said.

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Average house price breaks through the £500,000 barrier

By Richard Williams PROPERTY prices have risen by nearly ten per cent over the last year, with the price of the average home in the area now exceeding half a million pounds, government figures indicate.

House prices in Tunbridge Wells shot up by an average of £50,000, and prices in Crowborough saw a similar increase, according to data by the Office of National Statistics [ONS].

The House Price Index is based on Land Registry figures and shows between April 2020 and April 2021 house prices rose by an average 8.9 per cent.

The average property price across the UK now stands at £268,000, according to the ONS, with homeowners seeing an increase in value of nearly £24,000 over the last 12 months.

Cooling The ONS House Price Index follows similar figures from mortgage providers such as Nationwide and Halifax, which have shown rises over the last 12 months between 7-10 per cent.

The data shows that in Kent, property prices have increased by even more than the UK average at 9.4 per cent, with the average home now at £318,983 up from £291,705 last year.

THROUGH THE ROOF Family homes in Tunbridge Wells now cost £500,000 The average house price in Tunbridge Wells has gone up £50,974 over the last 12 months.

According to online vendors such as Rightmove, the average home in the town now costs £542,284.

The average semi-detached house costs £508,641, the average detached home £849,654, and the average terraced property £436,093.

In Crowborough, similar price rises have seen the average house rise by £42,500 to £462,542.

Detached properties in the East Sussex town fetch £606,913, according to Rightmove, and

semi-detached homes £350,110.

Despite the rocketing house prices in the area, the ONS say the market is showing the first signs of cooling as prices dropped in April.

House prices fell by 1.9 per cent compared to March, but the ONS said this was likely caused by the government’s stamp duty relief, which was due to expire on March 31 but was extended for an additional three months.

The Times reported earlier this month on the Tunbridge Wells housing boom, which estate agents say has been one of the busiest on record.

Lib Dems believe they’ll win big after by-election THE Liberal Democrats claim the by-election result in Chesham and Amersham last week indicates a voting swing big enough to see them take Tunbridge Wells at the next General Election.

The party’s Sarah Green defeated the Conservative’s Peter Fleet, in what is thought to be one of the Tories’ safest seats, in a shock triumph in the Buckinghamshire constituency last week.

At the last election the Conservatives had just 55 per cent of the vote in Chesham and Amersham but this was slashed to 35.5 per cent by a 30 per cent swing to the Lib Dems who took 56 per cent of the vote.

Political commentators suggest that the shock Chesham and Amersham result was a protest vote due to local issues in the area, including HS2 and reforms to planning law.

However, the Lib Dems, who saw their Tunbridge Wells Borough Council seats increase from nine to 13 after the local elections in May, say the result indicates that the party could now take 154 seats across the country in a General Election, inlcuding the Tunbridge Wells constituency.

The party said the Chesham and Amersham result will have ‘Conservative MPs such as Greg Clark MP looking over their shoulders’.

Credible Lib Dem parliamentary spokesperson for Tunbridge Wells, Ben Chapelard, who challenged Mr Clark in 2019, said: “Our huge triumph in Chesham and Amersham has shown that the

RESULTS: Ben Chapelard and Greg Clark in 2019

Liberal Democrats are a serious and credible opposition to this Conservative party.

“Their blue wall isn’t just on notice; it has been shaken at its foundations by the Liberal Democrats in both the Chesham and Amersham by-election and the last set of local elections here in Tunbridge Wells when the Conservatives lost control of the council after 23 years.

“Liberal Democrats need a 13.4% swing in Tunbridge Wells at the next General Election to beat the Conservatives. If you want a Liberal Democrat member of Parliament in Tunbridge Wells, you can have a Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament here.”

Responding to the Lib Dem claims, Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark told the Times: “At every election I have stood in the Lib Dems have boasted that they were about to win.

“I wouldn’t dream of doing that. I will always concentrate on working hard for all my constituents irrespective of party politics. I trust people to make their choice when the time comes.”

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Traders look forward to end of ‘ugly’ high street barriers

By Richard Williams PLANTERS to replace the ‘temporary’ plastic barriers in Tunbridge Wells High Street are set to be installed next month following months of delays.

Kent County Council [KCC] erected the plastic barriers in August last year after the High Street was converted into one way system last August, as part of the Government’s £1.6million Active Travel scheme.

KCC was allocated just over £8million by the Department for Transport to invest in schemes across the county to encourage walking and cycling in the wake of the Covid pandemic.

The one-way system, which is under review until February next year, has been welcomed locally, the unsightly barriers have caused concern.

Demand Traders branded them ‘ugly’, ‘unsightly’, and ‘unwelcoming’ and some have nicknamed the barriers ‘Lego bricks’.

Last year, Tunbridge Well Borough Council [TWBC] promised to replace the barriers with more aesthetically pleasing planters and permanent pavement extensions known as parklets.

While TWBC are responsible for the ordering and paying for the street furniture, the authority has to go through KCC’s acquisition process and delays in the supply chain have meant nearly ten months have passed and the barriers remain in place.

Council officials say the pandemic has created

‘UNSIGHTLY’ The High Street barriers were installed last August

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Police crackdown on anti-social behaviour ALMOST 50 warnings were handed out to people in Tunbridge Wells last year because of anti-social behaviour last year as Kent Police continue with measures to stamp out unruly behaviour.

Community protection warnings are given to people causing noise, criminal damage, alcohol misuse, as well as after complaints of threatening behaviour and harassment.

Breaches of the warnings can lead to arrest and prosecution they are often used as a first step to monitor the actions of people linked to littering and fly tipping.

Sergeant Ian Loader of the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Unit said: “We have officers dedicated to tackling anti-social behaviour, who are committed to identifying issues which are having a detrimental impact of people’s lives.

Deterrent

a nationwide demand for new street furniture as towns and cities across the country are undertaking similar schemes, but the barriers are now expected to be replaced next month with the planters in-situ by ‘mid-July’.

‘Towns around the country are installing new planters so sourcing has been a challenge’ Ross Feeney, the Chief Executive of Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, said traders are looking forward to change.

He said: “We share the frustrations of businesses over the delays to this project; it has

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taken longer to deliver than originally thought – a number of reasons for which are not attributable to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

“Most towns around the country are installing new planters and street furniture and sourcing a quality supply has been quite a challenge. We have been working with the council on this project, helping them secure a supplier, and my understanding is that the new installation is imminent.

“The end result, with new planters and two parklets – one of which has been fully funded by Tunbridge Wells Together – will significantly improve the look of the high street and we look forward to seeing the end result.”

“As is often the case, it is a small number of individuals responsible for actions which can be the cause of profound distress and harm, often directly affecting neighbours and sometimes impacting on entire communities.”

He said over the past year dedicated officers have ensured people linked to complaints of anti-social behaviour face greater scrutiny.

Sgt Loader added: “Coordinated and proactive activity during the half term holidays helps us prevent and also respond more effectively to issues often caused by large groups.

“A visible policing deterrent is only one part of tackling anti-social behaviour and the important contributions from our partners means we can understand better the needs of those who may be attracted to these groups.

“This joined up approach helps us address issues related to alcohol and drugs and also provide advice to young people about keeping safe and staying away from crime.”

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Music festival takes a ‘massive’ financial hit but will bounce back BACKERS of the Black Deer festival suffered a ‘massive financial loss’ when it was cancelled although they vowed yesterday [Tuesday] that it will return next year.

This weekend should have seen the Americana festival take place in Eridge Park after it was postponed from last year due to the pandemic.

But then the government announced they were delaying their roadmap out of lockdown, prohibiting any outdoor event with more than 4,000 people in attendance, which saw it cancelled again.

In an exclusive interview with the Times, co-founders of Black Deer, Gill Tee and Deborah Shilling, have said they had no idea they would end up calling the event off until they heard the government announcement while they were setting up on that Monday.

Heartbreaking “The stage wasn’t up yet but we were putting up the fences when the announcement came on, so we had to watch it all come down again. It was heartbreaking,” Gill said.

“We were not expecting the announcement at all. We thought it would be fine. As far as we were concerned it was all going ahead and then when we heard, we felt just disbelief really.

“We just couldn’t believe it. This is one of the safest events in the country. We have space for 40,000 people at Eridge Park, it is outdoors, and yet other events such as football are being allowed to go ahead.”

Festival partner, Deborah Shilling, said they had no opportunity of rescheduling.

She added: “We had already moved the date once to a week later when the government introduced its roadmap and we realised then that a lot of the US acts would not be able to come over.

“Our 2020 line up was US-based but when we had to postpone the event we lost our American acts so it became more a British and Irish

FOUNDERS Deborah Shilling [left] and Gill Tee who started Black Deer in 2018

‘Whatever it takes we will not let it go and we’ll fulfill all our obligations to ticket holders’ Americana event with the likes of Van Morrison and Robert Plant.”

Deborah added the news has meant the pair have taken a ‘massive financial loss’ but they are vowing that Black Deer will return in 2022.

“We have lost a large amount of money, but we have such wonderful investors on board who are not going to let the festival go,” she said.

“And we have had absolutely no support from the government,” added Gill . “We just hope they will retrospectively look at this and realise all those people in our industry who have received nothing over the last year but bring so much into the economy.

“The government is piloting other events far less safe than Black Deer. Where is the balance, who makes the decisions? We did everything possible to put on a safe event.”

Despite the financial loss and cancellation of the event for the second year in a row, the pair

PHOTOS: Ania-Shrimpton

By Richard Williams

are determined that Black Deer will return in 2022.

“Whatever it takes we will be back,” said Gill .

“There has been such an outpouring of love locally from the people of Tunbridge Wells, and we are so grateful to them as they have taken Black Deer into their hearts.”

Deborah added: “2022 is definitely going to go ahead. We are already in talks with some great acts and have some fantastic artists on board.

“Whatever it takes we are not going to let it go and we will fulfill all our obligations to our wonderful ticket holders.”

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

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From the Hop Farm to award-winning event CO-FOUNDERS of Black Deer, Gill Tee and Deborah Shilling, began the Americana inspired festival in 2018, after a chance conversation with a friend.

Gill said: “I used to work at the Hop Farm putting on events and festivals and when Deborah and I got chatting to Colin Lloyd, about his love of country and western, it just started it all rolling.

Nashville SUMMER OF FUN LARGELY UNTOUCHED DESPITE the cancellation of Black Deer due to the delay in lifting Covid restrictions, most events planned for Tunbridge Wells this summer are set to go ahead.

Last week, PM Boris Johnson said the June 21 easing of lockdown restrictions was to be delayed a month until July 19.

The move prohibits any outdoor gathering of more than 4,000 people or limits indoor events to just 1,000 people or 50 per cent capacity.

While the delay means the 10,000 ticket Americana festival cannot go ahead, other summer events are unaffected.

Pub in the Park, which is being held on July 9-11 in Dunorlan Park, will be going ahead.

The food festival, organised by TV chef Tom Kerridge, will see the likes of Craig David, James Blunt, Beverley Knight, and The Lightning Seeds entertain the crowds and celebrate food from a range of pubs and restaurants.

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Also going ahead in July will be the inaugural TW Fringe.

The two-week celebration of dance, comedy, opera and live performances taking place in venues across the town kicks off on July 5 until July 18.

Local & Live, the popular August bank holiday free music festival is also scheduled to take part this year.

The three days of music centred on Calverley Grounds and various live music venues around the town will happen over three days form August 27.

Organisers of Tunbridge Wells Mela – the cultural diversity festival – have said they are planning for a return of the event his year but have yet to reveal details.

While the biennial Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival is also set for a return in 2021, with the event likely to take place in October.

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“We thought a festival like that could work but it would have to embrace all of Americana – and we both had a deep love for Americana.

“Colin said he would put up the initial money we needed, and after that, everything just fell into place. We had worked with Eridge Park before, and it was just the perfect venue.”

Partner, Deborah Shilling said that in order to be successful they knew they had to attract the best acts around.

“We decided if we were going to do it, we needed to get the best artists we could get, so we visited Nashville and sat down with all the managers and agents over there,” she recalled. “And they were willing to take a chance on us.”

The first Black Deer festival in 2018 saw around 5,000 people visit Eridge Park to see acts that included the likes of American song writing legend Iron & Wine alongside movie star Keifer Sutherland’s band.

A year later and the crowd had doubled and the number of acts increased to nearly a hundred, including big names such as the Band of Horses, Kris Kristofferson, the Mavericks and Billy Bragg.

It went on to win the prestigious Independent Festival Awards 2018 Best New Festival on the Block award.

Black Deer 2020 was set to be the biggest event yet, with

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20,000 expected to attend Eridge Park to see the likes of Robert Plant, Imelda May and the Waterboys, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Now its 2021 replacement has also had to be postponed, but the pair have not given up.

“None of it would be possible without our fantastic investors.

They have all been amazing by standing by us, and one in particular, Ian Chapman has really put his head above the parapet for us and ensured we can keep going,” said Gill Tee, adding: “We will be back in 2022, everybody is really committed to it, so watch this space.”

8

BUSINESS

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Local News

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Transport group wants County Hall to slam the brakes on rest stop ban

By Richard Williams A BAN by County Hall on lorries parking in laybys has been heavily criticised by a Tunbridge Wells business group that represents transport businesses.

Logistics UK, based on St John’s Road, says Kent County Council’s prohibition on HGV parking ‘contravenes the rights’ of essential workers.

The parking directive prevents HGVs from using laybys for more than 45 minutes at a time in roads in Ashford, Maidstone, Swale, Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone and Hythe, and Thanet.

KCC has also applied to the government to extend the ban across Tunbridge Wells.

Logistics UK, formerly known as the Freight Transport Association, has now written to Rachel Maclean MP, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at Department for Transport (DfT) to ‘strongly object’ to County Hall’s actions.

Heidi Skinner, Policy Manager for the south at Logistics UK, said: “Lorry drivers were deemed ‘essential’ workers during the pandemic, but it seems that this has been forgotten in this latest directive.

“Logistics UK is urging the DfT to consider the welfare of these drivers – who work tirelessly to transport the goods and services the nation needs – and withdraw support for KCC’s order banning HGV parking in laybys across several of

PARK IT Logistics UK based on St Johns’ Road want KCC to reverse its policy

Kent’s boroughs and districts.

“Lorry drivers need access to parking spaces to rest – for both their welfare and to meet legally mandated rest periods from driving – but with a shortage of between 1,000 and 1,200 HGV parking spaces in Kent, it is unacceptable to prohibit the use of laybys for drivers without providing facilities elsewhere.”

The ban was introduced to ensure HGVs were not parking in laybys while awaiting the correct paperwork to enter the EU.

Feedback As the need for a Kent Access Permit (KAP) has now been removed following successful Brexit negotiations, Logistics UK say there is now no reason to keep the ban in place.

“Following the removal of the KAP and taking into consideration the lack of lorry parking facilities in Kent, it is unacceptable for KCC and DfT to continue this traffic order,” Ms Skinner added.

KCC says they acknowledge the role hauliers played during the pandemic and insisted that drivers taking their short statutory breaks ‘using dedicated laybys or parking areas’ do not face enforcement.

Responding to the criticism from Logistics UK, a KCC spokesman said they would consider the feedback, adding: “As we approach the end of the initial period of this project, we are grateful for all the feedback received directly, and via our ongoing consultation.

“All responses will be fully considered before a decision about the longer-term future of the lorry parking ban is reached. We’re also discussing with DfT the long-term issue of lorry parking in Kent.”

CHIEF EXECUTIVE Jo James

Reopening delay a ‘hammer blow’ THE head of the county’s chamber of commerce has urged the government to continue supporting businesses following the to delay the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Jo James, chief executive of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce has said the setback will come as a ‘hammer blow’ to firms following last week’s announcement where Boris Johnson delayed the reopening of the UK until July 19.

Mrs James, OBE, urged the government to continue its support for businesses until the new reopening date in July.

Tapering “Many firms have fought incredibly hard to stay afloat throughout the pandemic and are struggling with the damage done to their cashflow and revenue,” she said.

She continued: “It would be extraordinary if we saw government retracting support to businesses now, given that some firms will remain unable to fully trade and others effectively forced not to trade at all.

“The government must provide further cash grants, at least equivalent to levels provided during the first lockdown, and delay the tapering of government payments into the furlough scheme, planned for the start of July.”

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Local News

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

TEAM SPIRIT The members of All Systems Row

SUMMER

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PHOTO: Jane Allan

10

NHS workers look to set new world record with 51 day row round Britain

By Lottie Bulmer A TUNBRIDGE Wells hospital worker is taking on the challenge of the ‘toughest rowing race in the world’.

Physician Associate Jessica Plail, 33 who works in the Trauma and Orthopaedic Department is hoping to set a new world record together with her team mates when they row over 2,000 miles unassisted around Great Britain in June.

It is acknowledged to be the toughest rowing race in the world as challengers have to be able to understand navigation as well as the sea’s tidal flow.

Jessica is one of four NHS workers making up an all female team of six called All Systems Row and they’ll be taking a number of courses over the coming months to learn how to safely navigate around the country.

Fastest The rest of the team is made up by Steph Toogood (51) who lives in Bexhill and works privately as a brain injury physiotherapist, Charlie Cooper (21) a physiotherapist at Solent NHS Trust, Lia Evans (22) from Bexhill,a physiotherapist at the Conquest Hospital in East Sussex, Andrea Harwood (45) a social worker from Bexhill, and Sophie Harris (35) an elective amputee who works as an intern sports therapist at Plymouth Albion Rugby Football Club.

The team have also set themselves the target of beating the current record held by an all-female crew.

Jessica said: “To date, only six crews, including one female crew of four called the Segals, have completed this race.

“The ladies’ Guinness World Record for the fastest row around the British mainland, which was set in August 2010 by the Seagals, stands at 51 days, 16 hours and 42 minutes! We hope to challenge this time and in doing so gain a new

world record.

“This is an unassisted race meaning from start to finish we will be self-sufficient and cannot stop or take on provisions.

“Our boat is 10 metres long with two small cabins at each end. During our journey we will be reliant on solar energy for powering our navigation systems, water maker and electrical items.

“As we are all passionate about environmental causes, we’ll be using the challenge as a way to raise money for a small, Brighton-based charity called Renewable World which is striving to make renewable energy accessible to all, helping to end extreme poverty and reduce climate change.”

She added the team was undergoing extensive training for the challenge.

“We’re all coastal rowers with varying degrees of experience ranging from two years to 10 years.

However, Andrea is new to rowing so we’re currently teaching her – luckily she has a year to perfect her technique.

“In order to race safely we will be doing a lot of training leading up to the race. This will consist of long endurance training as well as cross training and strength work.

“We are looking to get coaching and training programmes developed for us and Plymouth University have offered to do some physiological testing for us to help set our training parameters which we will need to balance with nutritional support.

“We’ve even got an executive leadership coach to help with team building. Although I already knew Steph, Lia and Charlie we only met the other two crew members six months ago after we were put in touch with Sophie via GB Row Challenge crew finder and Steph found Andrea through Bexhill sailing club.”

To sponsor All Systems Row visit www. justgiving.com/fundraising/allsystemsrow or you can also follow the team on Instagram @ allsystemsrow

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

New community group vows ‘to get things done’

Local News

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11

BACK TO HER ROOTS Rosie Dobson (left) gives an award to under 18s player Megan Follows (right) at TWRFC

TRUSTEES Cllr David Scott and below, Liz Orr

By Richard Williams A NEW community interest organisation has been formed that hopes to ‘fill the gaps’ between the Council, the Town Forum, the Business Improvement District [BID] and the many charitable organisations in Tunbridge Wells.

Our ToWn is the brainchild of a group of councillors and local business and community leaders who say they will work with organisations and volunteers ‘to get things done in Tunbridge Wells’.

The initial trustees of the group include the Council’s cabinet member for Tunbridge Wells, Cllr David Scott, Women’s Equality Party campaigner, Liz Orr, the Town Forum chairman, Adrian Berendt, former KCC councillor Catherine Rankin, and Local & Live Trustee, Peter Taylor.

Cllr Scott, told the Times: “This will be a residents orientated group and not a campaign group. We want to support other organisations and get things done.”

He said the focus of the group at first will be to bring more events to the town to generate footfall and visitors.

“The initial Trustees see immediate and longer-term objects such as running and supporting festivals, assisting in enhancing an environmentally friendly travel system in our town, supporting Community Interest buildings, features or activities.

“In doing so, we fully recognise and wish to support those in the creative, hospitality and other local industries – both professional and amateur.”

He continued: “Currently, so many things in Tunbridge Wells depend on individuals, and we have great people doing things such as Debbie King who is behind the TW Fringe, but what happens when these people step down? There is nobody to keep these ideas going.

“If you want to donate money to Tunbridge Wells there is nowhere to donate it to. You have to have a specific cause.

“The key to the success of Our ToWn will be achieving common purpose with all those in the town who wish to enjoy the town and enhance it for current and future generations.”

Town’s rugby club credited with the success of England player Tunbridge Wells Rugby Football Club has been praised for introducing an England player to the sport.

Rosie Dobson (19) is a Harlequins hooker and England Under 20 player who started playing rugby at the club when she was 13.

She returned to the club on June 6 to chat with current players and give out awards to those who have excelled in the disrupted season.

Rosie said: “It was great to go back to

Tunbridge Wells RFC to give something back to a club which has given me so much.

“Without Simon Parsons [Director of the club’s ladies team] setting up a girl’s rugby side I would never have even known girl’s rugby existed.

“By going back I hope to help raise the profile of girls’ and women’s rugby and to inspire young girls to follow their dreams on and off the rugby pitch.”

Campaign to support local businesses ends on a high note THE initiative by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to shine a spotlight on local high streets has drawn to a close.

Say Hi to the High Street held special events, prize draws and treasure hunts in Cranbrook, Hawkhurst, Paddock Wood and Southborough.

Nell Price, owner of the Arty Farty Retreat in Southborough told how she felt the campaign had benefited local businesses.

“The events have brought the whole community together – especially for myself and other shop owners in Southborough.

“It’s been all about the local businesses and the people that are behind them. I’ve loved having the chance to connect with new and returning customers again!”

A spokesperson for the council added: “Despite the ongoing uncertainty we are facing in this challenging time, we’re pleased that ‘Say Hi to your High Street’ has given an injection of support to the local businesses in four of our borough high streets.

“The Council has had positive discourse with so

many members of the trader community during this campaign and we will continue to support them in the future.

“With the reopening of shops and services across the UK, our unique and historic trading community has needed our help to spring back after a year of lockdown restrictions, and I’m proud to say our residents have answered the call.

“The recent postponement of the final lifting of these restrictions has impacts for local businesses of all shapes and sizes, so it’s vital that we carry the momentum of ‘Say Hi to your High Street’ forward and continue to support our local businesses so they remain a vibrant part of our local communities.”

The campaign, which saw the Times as one of the media partners, reached hundreds of thousands of people across print and social media and saw more than 200 entrants for one Say Hi competition in Cranbrook alone.

LOCAL SUPPORT: One of the Say Hi competitions in Cranbrook attracted 200 entrants to the town

12

NEWS

National News

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Government to scrap holiday quarantine for the fully vaccinated THE Health Secretary has said the Government is ‘working on’ plans for quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated Britons but international travel remains a ‘difficult’ area.

Matt Hancock confirmed that ministers are looking at how to scrap the requirement for people to isolate for 10 days on return from an amber list country, but there will be no change to the current red list quarantine rules.

Restricted He said he is ‘in favour of moving forward in this area’ and replacing quarantine with daily testing.

“This hasn’t been clinically advised yet – we’re working on it,” he told Sky News.

“We’re working on plans to essentially allow the vaccine to bring back some of the freedoms that have had to be restricted to keep people safe.

“After all, that’s the whole purpose of the vaccination programme, that’s why it’s so important that every adult goes out and gets the jab.”

Asked if these plans could be in place as soon as August, Mr

Hancock said: “We’ll get there when it’s safe to do so.”

Speaking on LBC radio, he said the Government is being ‘cautious about international travel’ in order to protect the progress at home.

But he added: “Having said that, the whole point of the vaccine programme is to be able to remove restrictions, and for people to be able to be kept safe by the vaccine rather than by these rules.

“So we are working on a plan for the double-vaccinated people, using tests, and to have that testing regime in place, instead of having to have the

‘We want to make sure the plan is safe and secure’ quarantine in some circumstances.

“We’re working with the clinicians, because we want to make sure the plan is safe and secure, so I can’t give you a date but what I can tell you is that I’m in favour of moving forward in this area.”

The Health Secretary also said the Government is ‘on

track’ for the July 19 easing of restrictions in England, but acknowledged that opening up travel abroad is ‘more difficult’.

People returning from a green list country are not required to enter quarantine, but there are no major viable tourist destinations in that tier following the removal of Portugal.

The amber list includes most popular summer hotspots such as Spain, Italy, France and Greece.

The news comes as it emerged that maintaining international travel restrictions throughout July would cost the UK £639million a day, according to a global tourism body.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has written to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, urging him to allow quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated people, and to remove PCR testing for arrivals from green list countries to save the summer season.

The WTTC warned that up to 218,000 jobs could be lost in the sector if no action is taken.

This is in addition to the 307,000 lost in the UK last year.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Licensing Act 2003 Application for the grant of a Premises Licence An application for a Premises Licence at The Dairy (Retirement Living) 103 St John’s Road , Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9FJ has been made by McCarthy & Stone Limited

A summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: The sale of alcohol, by retail, on the premises only for homeowners and their invited guests 1100 hours to 2300 hours Monday to Sunday and New Year’s Eve 1100 hours to 0100 hours.

Any person wishing to view details of an application can contact the licensing team on 01732 227004. Any person wishing to make representation about the proposals should make them in writing by 14 July 2021 to: Licensing Partnership, Council Offices, PO Box 182, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks, Kent.

TN13 1GP licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk www.sevenoaks.gov.uk It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary of conviction for the offence is £5,000.

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wembley to host 60,000 fans for Euro 2020 semi-finals and final MORE than 60,000 football fans will be allowed to attend the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020 at Wembley if they have a negative Covid-19 test or prove they are double vaccinated.

The Government announced on Tuesday that attendance capacity for the tournament’s closing matches at the north-west London stadium has been increased to 75%, which could see some of the largest crowds in the UK since the start of the pandemic.

All ticket holders will be required to have a negative coronavirus test or provide proof of two doses of a vaccine 14 days before a game.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “As we continue to make progress on our road map out of lockdown, keeping the public safe remains our top priority.

COMING HOME The Euro finals will be largest gathering at a UK stadium since last year

NEWS

13

Greek pilot in court over wife’s death A GREEK helicopter pilot appeared in court in Athens yesterday [Tuesday] on charges of premeditated murder over the death of his British wife, who authorities say he confessed to killing after claiming for more than a month that the woman had died during a brutal home robbery.

Pilot and flight instructor Babis Anagnostopoulos, 33, arrived in court wearing a bulletproof vest and under heavy police guard.

A crowd had gathered outside and shouts of ‘rot in prison’ could be heard as Anagnostopoulos entered the courthouse.

Premeditated

Rigorous “We have worked extremely closely with Uefa and the FA to ensure rigorous and tight public health measures are in place whilst allowing more fans to see the action live.

“The finals promise to be an unforgettable moment in our national recovery from the pandemic.”

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the matches “will show that when it comes to great sporting events, London simply cannot be beaten”.

He added: “It is really important that Londoners continue to stick to the rules throughout the tournament and get tested for Covid regularly and take both doses of the vaccine as soon as they are offered.”

The matches will form part of the Government’s events research programme (ERP) which has seen test events held at sporting, music and other

National News

venues to assess the impact of crowds on Covid-19 infection rates.

Mark Bullingham, FA chief executive, said: “We hope that this programme lays the foundation for the safe return of fans in stadiums all across the country next season.”

The announcement comes just a day after Covid-19 restrictions in England were hoped to be further lifted, before the Prime Minister pushed this back by up to four weeks amid concern over the Delta variant.

It meant ongoing curbs on other events in England, such as weddings where the size of a guest list now depends on how many people a venue can safely accommodate.

Rules stipulate that dancing is not permitted, apart from the couple’s first dance, while

eating and drinking must be done while seated.

Some couples due to marry this week shared their frustration at continued limitations while large-scale sporting events can welcome back crowds.

Bride-to-be Chelsey Rowe, 23, from Letchworth, said: “It baffles me how you can have thousands at say a football match or to watch horse racing, but we can’t have our nearest and dearest celebrating a huge milestone in our relationship.”

Pilot events under the ERP include the Royal Ascot horse racing meeting being permitted to host crowds of up to 12,000 spectators per day, while the first week capacity of the Wimbledon tennis championships will be capped at half of normal levels – 21,000 people.

He is accused of killing Caroline Crouch, 20, who died of suffocation on May 11 at the couple’s home on the outskirts of Athens.

The pilot had publicly claimed that armed robbers broke into their home at night, tying up and gagging him and his wife in their bedroom while their nearly one-year-old daughter slept.

He had said the men stole cash before escaping.

The account shocked the nation and prompted authorities to announce a 300,000 euro (£257,000) reward for information about the crime.

Police investigators said analysis of data from a smartwatch worn by Ms Crouch had helped reveal inconsistencies in the pilot’s account of events.

Anagnostopoulos has been charged with felony counts of premeditated murder and animal abuse, and misdemeanour counts of providing false testimony and filing a false police report about the robbery.

If convicted on all counts, he would face a life sentence.

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Education News

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Wednesday June 23 | 2021

EDUCATION Times

“Our work in these schools is supportive and empowering” Children’s education has suffered enormously due to the pandemic – but for many so has their mental health. Here Chris Munday, CEO of Crossways Community explains why the charity’s new Reboot Project is helping many youngsters to navigate life post lockdown…

CROSSWAYS COMMUNITY is a Christian mental health charity which is based and works entirely in Tunbridge Wells and Southborough.

Our mission is to deliver care and support to people with poor mental health, to combat exclusion and stigma often experienced by people with poor mental health and to promote improved mental health in the community.

As a charity we are particularly concerned at the state of the mental health of our young people. We see rising cases of poor mental health in our local schools. We are acutely conscious that the current pandemic has damaged so many young people and that mental health statutory services are overwhelmed.

Accessible So our offering to our community is ‘Reboot’.

This is our impactful and focused project that works in local secondary and primary schools to give our young people tools to improve their mental resilience. The project is headed up by one of our colleagues Sara Barker who has many years’ experience in youth work and mental wellbeing education among young people.

Our work in secondary schools is interactive and empowering. We share proven tips on how to spot poor mental health in yourself and your friends, how to look after one another, how to improve your own mental resilience and we signpost to other resources and agencies who offer further advice and support.

For older children facing public exams and decisions about careers and universities we offer practical advice on how to deal with stress, anxiety and depression.

Normally we would deliver our Reboot training face-to-face but clearly during lockdown that was not possible. So, we provided a series of practical and accessible talks online that teachers, youth leaders and teenagers could use with their groups. A local youth worker worried

“We are committed to providing our young people with the support they need to enjoy good mental well-being” at the effect of the pandemic on her young people said: “This is exactly the sort of thing I have been after! Thank you so much.”

For younger children the move to secondary school can be a worrying time. So, we are

currently providing lessons for nine local primary schools teaching Year 6 children about mental resilience and equipping them for their transition to secondary school. Over the next few weeks, we will speak to over four hundred local children from primary schools including St Augustine’s, Brenchley and Matfield, St Matthew’s, Groombridge, Fordcombe, Southborough, Pembury, The Mead and Hilden Grange prep schools. Next month we will be speaking to over two hundred more children in the Sevenoaks area.

In addition to the work we do in schools we also provide high quality residential accommodation and support to over sixty local people through care homes, supported housing and independent living. We also have a number of strong and growing community projects. Our award-winning

GREG CLARK MP ADVICE SURGERIES

If you have an individual problem which you think I can help with or you would like to have a chat about a more general issue, please do get in touch.

I am holding regular advice surgeries – by zoom or telephone. To make an appointment, please call:

01892 519854 or email:

greg.clark.mp @parliament.uk

café ‘The Kitchen Table’ in Camden Road is open to all but has a special focus on providing a supportive environment for those living with poor mental health. It is a cafe which is all about chat rather than coffee.

In 2021 we have launched ‘Flourish’ a gardening project based in the centre of Tunbridge Wells. This new and exciting project will give local people with poor mental health the opportunity to plant, grow and harvest fruit and vegetables in the company of others as well as to enjoy the great outdoors.

At Crossways we are committed to providing our young people with the support, resources and encouragement they need to enjoy good mental well-being.

CHRIS If you would like us to come to MUNDAY your school to provide our Reboot programme or for further information on accessing any of our projects, please contact Chris Munday at info@crosswayscommunity.org.uk

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Weekly Comment

Greg Clark Conservative MP for Tunbridge Wells

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Greg Clark was first elected MP for Tunbridge Wells in 2005.

He has held a number of positions in Government, including Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. He is currently Chair of the House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committe.

Not quite three cheers for flexible tickets yet FOR over 70 years anyone travelling to work in London from Tunbridge Wells has had two options: a full fare return or a seven day a week season ticket.

I have long campaigned for that to change. I called for flexible ticketing to be a requirement of the next franchise for our train operator in the South East but the franchise was extended rather than renewed.

Last September I called a debate in the House of Commons to press the case for flexible ticketing.

Reform I argued to the Rail Minister that it was an anachronism that in the 2020s people were assumed to work in the same way as they did in the 1950s. And, especially after Covid, in future more people could expect to work more flexibly and not rigidly commuting to London 5 days a week.

The debate struck a chord, with other MPs adding support from their own constituencies.

The Minister acknowledged the force of the case I had made, but blamed the Treasury for standing in the way of reform. So I was delighted when the Secretary of State for Transport gave the green light for flexible season tickets last month. This week they have become a reality.

From Monday it is possible to buy a flexible

season ticket from Tunbridge Wells, High Brooms, Paddock Wood, Tonbridge and Ashurst.

It means that if you commute 2 days every week, or go into London often but irregularly, you can buy a discounted ticket that can be used flexibly.

From Tunbridge Wells to London return tickets to be used up to 8 days a month will cost £5 a day, or £40 a month, less than a day return.

I give the announcement and the new Flexi Season ticket two cheers. The first cheer is because it has broken a 70-year lock on the fares system, showing that it really is possible to have tickets that are suitable for part-time commuters and to offer a discount on the daily fare. Now the fares system has been reformed there is no reason why it can’t be improved further.

The second cheer is because there is genuine flexibility. You don’t have to nominate regular days to travel, they can vary from week to week – you can even just turn up at the station to validate your Flexi ticket for that day. That is a welcome recognition of the variability of people’s lives. Sometimes people don’t know in advance what pattern of days they are going to have to travel to work.

But I will withhold the third cheer. That is because in my view, the discount should work for people who are commuting an average of three days a week as well as two.

Currently if you travel the majority of days in a

RECRUITMENT

week, but not every day, it is still cheaper to buy a seven days a week season ticket. I think that needs to be changed with a discount available for that pattern of commuting too. But at least with the principle – and practice – of part time flexible season tickets established, that should be a case that can be made, and I will continue to campaign for it.

Progress

SUCCESS: Greg has long argued for flexible tickets

I will also press for contactless payment to be expanded to our local stations. If you’re rushing for a train, your heart sinks when you turn the corner and see a long queue of people at the ticket machine or counter, waiting to print out paper tickets.

It should be possible to use your contactless bank card at the gates just as it is in London, without needing paper tickets or a dedicated card like the Southeastern keycard. I raised this in the House of Commons with the Transport Secretary last month and will keep pressing the case until it is agreed.

So there’s more to do, but we should welcome significant progress. Until this week, the system of rail fares was the same as when steam trains took commuters from Tunbridge Wells to London. Change shouldn’t have taken so long, and now it has been made, it mustn’t stop.

RECRUITMENT

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST 15hrs p/week

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST 15.5hrs p/week

• £7500 to £8000 Depending on experience • Tunbridge Wells, Kent • Kingswood Surgery Kingswood Surgery, Medical Receptionist - Part Time 15 hours per week An opening for a medical receptionists has arisen within this 11,000 patient practice located in central Tunbridge Wells, to replace students returning to University.

This role may suit a trained medical receptionist looking for additional hours or a new applicant with no previous experience in the role, either way appropriate professional training will be given.

We are looking for a flexible receptionist to cover the following regular sessions: VACANCY ONE - 15 hours per week • Monday: 8.00pm-1.00pm • Wednesday: 8.00pm-1.00pm • Thursday: 8.00am –1.00pm In addition, the candidate needs to be aware that there will be a requirement to provide cover Tuesday morning or afternoon, in the event of absence through sickness, illness or holidays for which they will be paid for the hours worked at the contracted rate.

If you are quick to learn, have the resilience to meet the challenges of a pressurised environment, energetic but calm, people-oriented, computerliterate, adaptable and good humoured, this could be your ideal opportunity.

For further details please e-mail the Lead Receptionist lynn.denney@nhs.net or call 01892 511833 Closing date for applications: Friday 16th July

• £7500 to £8000 Depending on experience • Tunbridge Wells, Kent • Kingswood Surgery Kingswood Surgery, Medical Receptionist - Part Time 15.5 hours per week An opening for a medical receptionist has arisen within this 11,000 patient practice located in central Tunbridge Wells, to replace students returning to University.

This role may suit a trained medical receptionist looking for additional hours or a new applicant with no previous experience in the role, either way appropriate professional training will be given.

We are looking for a flexible receptionist to cover the following regular sessions: VACANCY TWO - 15.5 hours per week • Monday: 8.00pm-1.00pm • Wednesday: 1.00pm-6.30pm • Friday: 8.00am –1.00pm In addition, the candidate needs to be aware that there will be a requirement to provide cover Thursday morning, in the event of absence through sickness, illness or holidays for which they will be paid for the hours worked at the contracted rate.

If you are quick to learn, have the resilience to meet the challenges of a pressurised environment, energetic but calm, people-oriented, computerliterate, adaptable and good humoured, this could be your ideal opportunity.

For further details please e-mail the Lead Receptionist lynn.denney@nhs.net or call 01892 511833 Closing date for applications: Friday 16th July

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Local News

NEWS

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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 you can write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG

Let’s end woke censorship BOYCOTT IKEA have reversed their decision on refusing to advertise on GB News

collector up 25% on 2019.

After the recent restrictions with regard to Covid people were most generous and thanks go also to the volunteer collectors who gave their time for this most worthy charity.

Many thanks Tonbridge.

Yvonne Horswill Pembury Branch, RNLI

Free family pack

No joined up thinking over roads In April, men made improvements to the Pelican crossing in Pembury High Street.

They then spent a day carefully burning away the original zig-zag lines accompanying the crossing and painting new lines, exactly where the old lines had been.

Last month, men came and spread black asphalt all over the lines as part of the resurfacing of the Hastings Road through Pembury.

This month men came and carefully repainted the zig-zag lines that accompany the Pelican crossing in Pembury High Street.

Is someone at Kent County Hall paid to plan and organise this work?

Glyn Pritchard Pembury

Equality does not equal quality In her letter supporting a more sexual and age-related balance of councillors in our council (Times of Tunbridge Wells June 16) the leader of the Tunbridge Wells Women’s Equality Party Liz Orr bemoans the fact that women are missing out on the opportunity of improving our community.

Whilst I would also argue that sex should not be a criteria for judging the suitability of a candidate to be a councillor, having an equal number from both sexes would not necessarily

corporations.

For example, I’ve got a sight-test coming-up in August and now I must look elsewhere.

IKEA sources its furniture in China and Myanmar.

How on earth did we end up where we are now?

Robert Moore Tunbridge Wells improve the lot of the local residents.

Also, if she really is trying to redress the sexual balance, why did her party not field any candidates at the last local election?

Victor Bethell Tunbridge Wells

NHS data opt out I wish to highlight and raise serious concerns over the National Opt Out scheme for NHS Data – especially with regards minors.

It is not possible to opt out for under 13’s online rather a form needs to be printed and completed and then returned by email to an address provided on the form (enquires@nhsdigital.nhs. uk) unfortunately all messages to this email address are blocked!

This making it almost impossible to opt out of data sharing for minors.

The only way is by old fashioned post – which in an increasingly digital world seems insane and intentionally difficult not to mention unacceptable. Perhaps this is the intent.

Questions on the form are extremely weighted and the fact that we need to opt out seems to have been overlooked by media outlets.

This is a major issue and concerning that we seemingly will loose the confidentiality of our children’s medical records- especially in the context of the current situation.

I believe this needs highlighting especially as the deadline to opt out is fast approaching.

Melanie Davies Tunbridge Wells

PEPPY SAYS...

Follow Peppry on Twitter @Peppyscott

Some major international brands have withdrawn their advertising from GB News – the new TV channel, following a disproportionately loud wokish voice claiming so-called hate crimes because the channel is anti-woke and anti-no-platforming.

This is censorship in all but name which means that the right-thinking man-in-thestreet must, in turn, boycott these

Summer is a time when we look forward to being with our families. After such a challenging year, I think we are all hoping this summer will be extra special and will give us a chance to reconnect with loved ones, rebuild lives, make up for lost time and move forwards.

Yet the summer holidays can also be a time when many parents find themselves under additional pressure. Perhaps due to juggling work commitments with childcare, or providing entertainment for the family when the bank balance is already stretched.

That’s why I’m delighted to share Family Action’s Creating Happy Memories Summer Activity Pack to help families make the most of summer.

It celebrates everything positive about family life while also taking a bit of pressure off parents by providing simple, practical, fun activities and guidance for everyone to enjoy this summer.

The digital pack is free and can be downloaded at www.family-action.org.uk/creating-happymemories.

Families are amazing – we’re not always

perfect but we are resilient, adaptable and loving. I know that together we can put a difficult year behind us and create new happy memories.

Anna Williamson Family Action

Covid rules do not make sense With reference to your front page last week [July 16] and the cancellation of the Black Deer festival due to the delay to lockdown easing, I find it remarakable that not enough is talked about of the inconsistencies in the rules.

So, you can’t go to an outdoor music festival because mumbers are limited, but it is okay for hundreds of Scottish football fans to descend on Leicester Square on Friday?

Who are these people that are devising the rules, what are they basing it on. I’m no virologist but I’m pretty certain you have less chance of catching Covid in the middle of a field in Eridge than wedged next to a thousand Glaswegians chanting at the top of their voices.

We need consistency in the rules.

Adam Myers Southborough

Thank you Tonbridge Pembury Branch held a collection for the RNLI in Tonbridge and the magnificent sum of £1,353.36 was raised, the average take per

We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words

THE PIANO SHOP N e v i l l E s t a t e Ya rd , E ri d g e , Tu n b ri d g e We l l s , K E N T T N 3 9 J R

Call 01892 543233

w w w. t h e p i a n o s h o p ke n t . c o . u k

WE’RE RECRUITING! Elite Leisure Collection, formally Markerstudy Leisure, is one of the region’s fastest growing group of companies consisting of five independently owned, award winning, ambitious brands employing over 80 staff. Due to continued growth and exciting new plans we are now recruiting for new superstars to join our teams based in Tunbridge Wells RECEPTIONIST

Playing a vital role in the everyday operation of our Reception, you will be responsible for creating the first impression for all guests, by greeting them and making them feel welcome.

This high profile role requires an excellent customer facing approach with exceptional levels of customer service.Your main focus will be to ensure customer satisfaction, directing guests to their conference or event, checking guests in and out of our accommodation and also managing a high level of email and telephone enquiries.

Strong communication and organisation skills are essential.

SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT

As part of our venue and media sales team, this is a results driven and varied sales support role that incorporates sales support and development, relationship management and sales administration.

Working in both B2B and B2C sectors, you will support our existing successful sales team to manage/monitor new enquiries, process new contracts, liaise with existing clients whilst providing administrative support to our small but ambitious sales team. To be successful in this role you will need good verbal and written communication, computer literacy with strong administration skills and great attention to detail.

MAINTENANCE CRAFTSMAN

Under the direction of our Head of Maintenance, the main purpose if this role is to provide a high quality and efficient maintenance support service in line with agreed standards of the business/ venue operation. Working as a part of a small but highly effective team, this is a hands on, varied

role working across three of our venues. The role requires a reasonable level of competence with all maintenance repairs, ability to follow established procedures and systems and a flexible attitude to accommodate venue needs through morning, evening and weekend work.

CHEF DE PARTIE

An opportunity has arisen for a full-time experienced Chef de Partie to assist in the day to day running of our busy kitchens. The main responsibilities are to manage a section within the kitchen whilst ensuring cleanliness, stock control, organisation and high standards of the section.

You will ensure that all dishes are prepared and cooked according to the specific restaurant standards alongside keeping to the required cleaning schedule and that the cleaning tasks are delegated as appropriate. Previous experience of working in a similar venue/restaurant is required along with a creative passion for food and quality.

ASSISTANT TO EXECUTIVE PA

Seeking an assistant to our Executive PA on a fixed term contract, the role is to support our Senior Executive PA in upcoming project work. Fixed term for 3 months with option to renew for a further 3 months, subject to project workload. Work includes research and procurement for several new developments at all our sites (including Salomons Estate, Bewl Water and One Warwick Park Hotel), cataloguing of furniture from premium development projects for sale – managing enquiries and sales offers and ensuring all records are up to date. Hours of work are flexible and some work can be done remotely. The successful candidate will be superbly

organised, have a can-do attitude, excellent IT skills, be willing to work from different locations and able to interact well with fellow staff and potential customers. Must have own car.

NIGHT PORTER

Our Front of House department is now recruiting for a reliable and enthusiastic Night Porter to join our successful team. As the Night Porter you will be assisting the team in achieving the venue goals and providing guests with superior service. As a Night Porter you are responsible for managing the reception department during the night and take on all reception duties. To attend to any guests needs efficiently and effectively as needed to deliver an excellent guest experience, and to ensure all buildings are secure at night. To successfully fill this role, you must have a proactive approach to work with a positive and the ability to work on your own initiative. You must have excellent verbal communication in English, the ability to work methodically and to an agreed time frame.

HOUSEKEEPER

Under the direction of the Housekeeping Manager and Supervisor, a Housekeeper aims to provide a high quality and efficient service in line with agreed standards of the venue operation, to be responsible for cleaning and tidying the bedrooms and public areas of the venue. The ideal candidate will have previous experience of housekeeping in a busy venue, the ability to work under pressure and a flexible attitude to accommodate customer needs through morning, evening and weekend work, according to venue occupancy.

To apply for any of the above roles please send a covering letter and CV to Lisa McVickers lisa.mcvickers@salomons-estate.com

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Interiors The wild blue yonder

This season’s coolest colour is all about serene shades Page 22

Moving on up

The cost of upsizing in the South East

Page 21

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H ENGINEERING PROUDLY UNDERTAKE THE RESTORATION OF CLASSIC & VINTAGE VEHICLES.

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H E n gin eerin g Ltd, L ittle Ca cke tts Farm , H ay m an s H i l l , H o rsm o n den , Ke n t , T N 1 2 8 BX

info@h-engineering.com | 01892 549042

Homes & Interiors

Property Focus NEW S

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

The true cost of upsizing in the region is revealed

By Lottie Bulmer THE South East is one of the most expensive places in which to upsize in Great Britain, a report shows.

With many people compromising on location in favour of more space as working from home becomes the norm, new research reveals that adding an extra room could cost you on average £116,193 more in England, Scotland and Wales.

In the South East of England, upsizing from a two bed to a three bed costs £133,696.

The jump from a three bed to a four bed sets buyers in the region back £211,022.

These are the highest jumps of a property value outside of London.

The South East also has the highest jump from a four bedroom to a five

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bedroom home out of all of Great Britain, which sets buyers back £431,424.

This is nearly £190,000 more than the average difference between the cost of four and five bedroom home which stands at £244,633.

The area is second only to London in the cost of a jump.

Founder and CEO of GetAgent.co.uk – the estate agent comparison site which conducted the research – Colby Short,

‘Additional space comes at an additional cost and this cost is pretty substantial’

MOVING UP Upsizing can be costly in the South East

said: “The pandemic has had a notable impact on homebuyer priorities with larger homes providing more space very much at the top of the list after months spent under lockdown restrictions.

“Of course, this additional space comes at an additional cost and in some areas, this cost is pretty substantial. Particularly in London where more space is a hot commodity, the average cost of an additional room isn’t far off the average house price in Britain.”

How going green could really help you save money as well as energy GREEN mortgages are now available specifically to make your home ‘greener’ or to help you buy a home with a high energy efficient rating.

Sustainable home improvements can be good for your wallet, as well as the environment. For example, someone could potentially save on their heating bills over the long term by having their windows replaced or reconditioned.

And with green mortgages, you may also find you can get a lower borrowing rate.

To find out more about green mortgages, James Pagan, head of mortgages at Nationwide Building Society shared his insight…

What sort of home improvements can green mortgages cover?

This could depend on the individual lender, but Nationwide’s Green Additional Mortgage can be taken out for a wide variety of upgrades – including new or upgraded windows, solar panels, boiler improvements, insulation including pipe

and boiler insulation, air source heat pumps, electricity or lighting upgrades, rainwater harvesting, electric car chargers and small-scale wind turbines.

One couple from Bolton in Lancashire, for example, borrowed £25,000 to improve their home and installed a new warm, insulated roof on their orangery.

ECO LIVING Green mortgages could help you make your home greener

What are green mortgages?

Pagan says green mortgage products tend to either encourage people to make their existing property more energy-efficient, or reward them for buying a property with a high energy efficiency rating.

In terms of mortgages which help people make their existing property greener, he adds: “A lot of people don’t necessarily buy a house on its energy efficiency. They buy it for other factors, such as location, space, garden. And once they get in there, they often think: ‘OK, well how do I make the most of the home that I’ve bought?’”

What deals are on the market?

While the popularity of green mortgages could increase in future, Rachel Springall, a finance expert at Moneyfacts.co.uk, says products are still ‘rather niche’ across the market generally.

She added: “Some major lenders are already on board to offer a discounted mortgage rates to borrowers who purchase an energy-efficient home,” Springall adds.

“This fact alone provides much optimism for more lenders to offer a similar approach.”

She highlighted Virgin Money, which recently launched Greener Mortgages – offering lower rates of interest to customers buying energy efficient newbuild homes.

In a survey, Virgin Money found tackling climate change is important to 78% of people, and the pandemic has made over a third (34%) think more about their environmental impact.

NatWest has also launched Green Mortgages, offering discounted rates to those purchasing an energy efficient property.

Springall said: “It is vital borrowers seek advice when comparing deals, to ensure they can meet eligibility criteria and not be left disappointed.”

Houses sell for more if their Feng Shui is good PAYING attention to the energy flow in your home could push its price up, research reveals.

The price gap between properties with good and bad Feng Shui properties sit at £61,705 in the South East compared to £45,384 on the average UK home.

Feng Shui is a set of principles which outline how you should arrange your house, to produce a harmonious flow of energy.

According to new research, 72 per cent of buyers said they paid more for their house because the design and layout were right for them.

CEO of Manor Interiors – the furniture company which conducted the research – Farhan Malik, said: “While you may or may not be completely

convinced by Feng Shui, there’s no doubt that many of us will relate to the core principle of perfecting the design and layout of our home if only to suit our own personal tastes.

Impact “Doing so can transform how we think and feel about our home and so it can certainly make for a happier home life and a greater appreciation for our property.

“It’s also understandable that this plays a role when looking to buy, both in terms of the homes we opt for and the price we’re willing to pay and research shows that positive Feng Shui really can have a substantial impact on property

market values.

“Whether you buy into it or not, it’s a particular focus of many housebuilders who market new build developments to foreign buyers where Feng Shui is deep-rooted within the culture of their native country.

“When furnishing these developments, we often have to consider how the furniture and layout of an apartment or house will not only impact the Feng Shui, but also how we can maximise positive energy to increase appeal once it does go up for sale or let.”

Top Feng Shui features include an east-facing door as the sunrise symbolises a bright future and not allowing the kitchen stove to sit below the master bedroom.

LOOK AND FEEL Feng Shui is said to improve house prices

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Homes & Interiors

Blissful blue

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

OUT OF THE BLUE Serene shades are in this season

12 ways to work the world’s most calming colour into your home this summer Sam Wylie-Harris puts her head in the clouds and takes her cue from azure skies…

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Homes & Interiors

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

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PENING the doors to blue skies and sea views (if you’re lucky) moves us in many ways, and chances are it makes you want to smile and take it easy.

Calm and serene, blue is often cited as the world’s most popular colour. And if you’re thinking of expanding your interiors to introduce a summer palette of blues, not only does it evoke positive feelings of serenity, you’ll also feel one step closer to the wild blue yonder.

For a sophisticated take, combine the palest wash with inky hues, or style solid baby blues with other cool homewares…

1. Bone China Seahorse Dinner Plate, £24; Lobster Pasta Bowl, £24; Set of Four Reef Napkin Rings, £25 (other items from a selection), Cream Cornwall Tablescaping for your catch of the day is a ‘shore’ thing with Cream Cornwall’s patterned chinaware.

Choose from crustaceans and other sea creatures in a beautiful illustrative style, which can be paired with coral accessories for a taste of marine life.

2. Blue Whale Lampshade, from £65, Mountain & Molehill Available as a lamp or ceiling pendant with a choice of a white or gold inner, this lampshade is a real find if you’re after something quirky and streamlined.

3. Breathable Linen Bread Bag Garden Design in Duck Egg Blue, £24, Helen Round Linen bread bags are having a

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moment in the sun, and if you’re a newbie to the joy of storing your sourdough in a breathable bread bag, you’ll never look back.

4. Palma Blue Glass Decanter, £29.50, Oliver Bonas Continuing the trend for palm prints and elegant decanters on home bars, this Palma 6 blue vessel is tailormade for all your drinking rituals, with just the right measure of wanderlust.

5. Moodyboard, Dusty Blue by Growme Melbourne, £149, Antipodream Whether you want to tell a story with holiday snaps and

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mementoes, or style up your workingfrom-home space, this Moodyboard ticks all the right boxes, with its magnetic surface and clever built-in shelf for storage.

6. Grandfather Olaf Figurine – Blue (sample clearance), £54, Mineheart This owl head bust may have a slight manufacturing defect, but we think that’s part of his charm – after all, even a wise old owl has had a few scrapes along the way. Dressed in period costume and inspired by nature, Grandpa Olaf is a hoot.

7. Nidra Ink Border, £99 per roll; Turton Emulsion, £45 for 2.5L, Woodchip & Magnolia Wallpaper is on a roll – but if you’re not ready to vacate an entire wall to a fashionable print, Woodchip & Magnolia’s new ‘mini mural’ could be the ideal option.

Featuring a path through an idyllic blue forest, there’s a choice of three coordinating paint finishes.

9. Tudor Blue Embroidered Velvet Cushion, £48 (other items from a selection), French Bedroom Company A look to steal, we love this vintage-style applique cushion, especially when fashioned against a shabby chic bench and distressed vase of dried flowers.

Duck-egg blue lends itself handsomely to bleached and light woods – and has a knack for transforming anything you pull together.

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10. Lazy Linen in Cornflower Blue – Pair of Pillowcases, Double Duvet & Fitted Sheet, £265 for the bundle, Loaf When the heat is on, carefree summer bedrooms are all about fresh, crumpled linen, wicker storage baskets, and a perfect pair of mules to slide into.

11. Fiddle Leaf Fig & Fractured Blue Pot, £34 (£29 Soho Home Members), Soho Home A collaboration between Soho Home and Leaf Envy, this potted fiddle leaf fig plant loves ambient lighting (don’t we all), and its broad dark leaves will freshen up any space. The fractured denim-blue pot is an added bonus.

8. Set of 8 Framed Art, £120, Next

12. Freya Bistro Set – Blue, £89,

With plenty of hanging possibilities, this set of prints in very attractive shades of blue flows beautifully together, and will transform a blank space into something serene and stimulating.

Dobbies Garden Centres (in store) Pretty patio, teeny terrace or galley kitchen, this boutique bistro set is rightly reserved for two.

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12 DATE NIGHT The perfect outdoor seating set for relaxing afternoon

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S T E E R T S H YOUR HIG AFE AND S , N E P O E AR ! i H O T READY Say

ts, ubs, restauran p s, fe ca s, p o The sh and llbeing venues health and we the nesses across other local busi pen ge Wells are o d ri b n Tu f o h g borou to they’d love you d n a – in a g a once ‘Hi!’. come and say k, ts of Cranbroo The high stree nd uthborough a Hawkhurst, So ing ve got someth a h d o o W ck o Padd for everybody.

for a oking for a gift You might be lo a treat ert DIY advice, loved one, exp orts by, specialist sp for your fur ba n hool uniform, a equipment, sc ome or righten your h accessory to b e end t to celebrate th just a new outfi of lockdown. with nt to catch up Or you may wa um out coffee, take m friends over a do ething new to m so d n fi r o for lunch

with the kids. ackdrop of the And with the b igh eald, all four h W sh ti n e K s u o glori nd ificent views a n g a m ve a h ts stree ps. on their doorste glorious walks ing and covidrk a p f o ty n le p With , res, Cranbrook secure measu d uthborough an Hawkhurst, So say d are ready to Paddock Woo et oYourHighStre iT H y a S # . u yo ‘Hi!’ to

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Food & Culture

Weeding out

Why we need to include wildflowers in our gardens

Page 34

High steaks

The Times gets a taste of the town’s newest restaurant Page 30

NEW

& h t l a e H ng i e b l l e W TURE FEA

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Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Arts for arts’ sake

all the community’s too Now in its fourth year, Mayfield’s Arts Fair takes place this coming weekend.

Eileen Leahy speaks to its organiser Richard Field about what makes it such a special creative event for both exhibitors and visitors alike…

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E’RE very lucky to have such a buoyant creative community in our local area so it’s great that as we emerge out of strict lockdown restrictions, we can finally start appreciating the arts in person again.

Hot on the heels of the recent South-East Open Studios comes Mayfield’s Arts Fair, which according to its organiser Richard Field, unites a high calibre of artists, artisans and performers to the local High Weald community.

Quality Taking place over the coming weekend (June 26-27) from 10am to 4pm at Mayfield Memorial Hall there will be the work of 20 artists on display, and also the opportunity to chat to most of them and buy their work.

“There will be over 50 spectacular pieces, many by gallery represented artists to view - and for sale,” explains Richard.

These include fine art, paintings,

sculptures, jewellery, ceramics and handcrafted gifts. The event is free and there will be food and refreshments available.

Running since 2018, The Arts Fair has become a popular event for both local creatives and those further afield. So how did it come about and why?

“It’s a contemporary art exhibition with quality and experience at the forefront of the curation” “I had recently moved down from London and was looking to link up with local artists and the arts community,” says Richard.

“I was keen to put on a really high quality arts event which had an exhibition feel with minimal ‘clutter’ so people could really enjoy the art on show. I was overwhelmed by the response from the

The Kent County Summer Fayre 10 & 11 July 2021

Book your tickets now

(Pre-booked tickets only) Purchase at:

www.KCAS.org.uk

Mark Munroe-Preston

arts

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Food & Culture

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Richard Field and Harvey Daniels

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

art is about the experience I was worried that wouldn’t be captured online,” states Richard.

Participating this year there will once again be a large percentage of

paintings, prints, etchings, mixed media, metal sculptures, bronze sculptures, ceramic sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and decoupage.”

How would Richard describe the

local community to enjoy.”

Richard goes on to say that he thinks visitors will enjoy ‘the holistic experience’ of the two-day show.

Contemporary

“We want to make high calibre work accessible to the local rural community and support emerging and performing artists”

“I think people coming along to the event will definitely enjoy the holistic experience of appreciating the artwork and sculpture in stunning surroundings. Hopefully they will also like the awesome refreshments being organised by members of the local community!”

The Arts Fair is run by the Arts Portfolio CIC a not for profit community interest company.

Andrew Warner

essence of The Arts Fair? “I’d say it’s a contemporary art exhibition with quality and experience at the forefront of the curation - where art and sculpture will be showcased for the

Yvonne Mills -Stanley

locals but also artists from further afield around UK and abroad. This Richard says is in order ‘to ensure variety and quality is sustained.’

“Pieces on display will include oil

James Clegg

incredible artists who came out of the woodwork!

“What I thought would be 10 local people exhibiting together turned into an annual arts fair of at least 20 or so artists and artisans,” laughs Richard.

“The show now includes well known painters and sculptors and international artists in order to really bring something special into the local rural community.”

Obviously to date there have only been two shows since 2018 due to last year’s Covid crisis cancelling the 2020 one and interestingly the decision was taken to not move anything online.

“Life was a bit overwhelming at the time and also partly because for me

“It organises the annual arts fair event but also runs a programme of incredible performing arts events including live music performances, dance performances, string quartets, figure drawing classes with art workshops planned for 2022,” adds Richard.

“We want to make high calibre work accessible to the local rural community as well as to support emerging and performing artists around Sussex. The overarching aim is to promote and raise emotional well-being through celebrating the arts.”

For further information visit www.theartsfair.com

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Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Cream teas and secluded creeks Experience some Cornish magic as hotels reopen

Jemma Crew heads to south Cornwall for a mix of sub-tropical gardens, beaches and good quality Cornish fare

travel

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APHNE DU MAURIER’S heroine in her 1941 novel Frenchman’s Creek flees the bustle of London for the escape of southern Cornwall.

Sipping locally-grown tea, with just the sun and birdsong for company, I can understand why. It’s hard to think of a more peaceful place to detach from the unsettled reality of the last 15 months.

Nestled in a bend of the Helford River, the family-run Budock Vean country house hotel promises a much-needed retreat fuelled by Cornish produce and a healthy dose of fresh air.

Spontaneity We are among the first guests after the four star ‘hotel on the river’ reopened its doors in mid-May, and things inevitably feel different after months of lockdown.

We call reception 10 minutes before arriving as requested, to let them know we are near, and don our face masks before crossing the threshold.

There are hand sanitisers next to the pale pink dianthus on each dining table, dishes are wheeled out on trolleys and the bedrooms are stocked with spare masks and gloves, as well as teas and coffees.

While there is less spontaneity (we

CORNISH CHARM The Helford River at Port Navas near Falmouth in Cornwall

cannot pop to the pool whenever we fancy) we pretty much have the entirety of the impressive octagonal pool house to ourselves during our booked session.

The hotel is operating at 85% capacity, and it is reassuring to see staff taking coronavirus so seriously, making our stay as safe as possible.

We ditch the car after the long drive and settle into the new outdoor hot tub before tucking into a champagne cream tea on the

‘Diners are seated under the steady gaze of Cornish greats such as Anthony Payne’ terrace. The southern aspect makes this spot a sun trap, with loungers dotting the sloping lawns.

The food served at the hotel is just as impressive. Along with seafood specialities – I’m told the Newlyn crab sandwich is number one lunch choice – there is an impressive menu of vegan and vegetarian options (the fluffy souffle swimming in creamed spinach is a must).

And diners won’t get bored with 99 wines to choose from and a four-course dinner

menu that changes daily – with locallysourced food making up almost 70% of the offerings.

The dining room underwent a dramatic transformation in February 2020 as part of a major renovation, and the result is an elegant space which pays tribute to the local area and history.

Golden-framed portraits dot a striking deep blue feature wall, with diners seated under the steady gaze of Cornish greats such as Anthony Payne, the seven foot, four inches tall ‘Cornish Giant’. Drum pendant lights of varying sizes hang from the ceiling, patterned with trees and birds, and a paddle rests atop the fireplace.

Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

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HIDDEN GEM Budock Vean country House is nestled on the bend of the Helford River

For less formal dining, guests can head to the hotel bar, conservatory, patio or one of the four lounges. Thirty of the 56 bedrooms have also been updated, with the remaining rooms, corridors and pool next on the list, and the refurbishment expected to be complete in the winter of 2022-3.

For me, the hotel’s most beautiful feature is its 65 acres of undulating, secluded grounds, taking in a nine-hole golf course, croquet lawn, tennis courts and organic sub-tropical gardens.

‘It is an eerie, beautiful inlet, with kingfishers nesting in its banks, a shipwreck and overhanging trees’ The next morning we stroll down the steep path to the hotel’s private foreshore, taking in the giant rhubarb, azaleas and rhododendrons.

From here, guests can embark on a 90-minute cruise exploring the Helford River, but it’s an adventure with Koru Kayaking that’s in store today.

We are greeted by Tom, our enthusiastic guide and co-owner, who flits effortlessly between gentle encouragement, explaining the local history, taking photographs and paddling. Kitted out with wetsuit, boots and a buoyancy aid, we settle into the sit-on kayaks and paddle out to the mouth of the river, pausing halfway for a quick dip before drying off on the sun-warmed

flat rocks.

We then paddle inland to Frenchman’s Creek, the location which inspired du Maurier’s swashbuckling yarn. It is an eerie, beautiful inlet, with kingfishers nesting in its banks, a shipwreck and overhanging trees – including one the Aussie singer Kylie Minogue is said to have reclined on in her music video, Flower.

But there is no sign of du Maurier’s Robin Hood-esque French pirate who plunders the coast in between winning the heart of the heroine, Lady Dona.

Idyllic Unfortunately, the sunny weather does not last for our visit to the world-renowned sub-tropical Trebah Garden, less than a mile from the hotel.

Visitors must pre-book slots, meaning arrivals are staggered and the steep ravine garden feels reassuringly uncrowded.

We waterproof up with slight trepidation, but the moody grey skies and drizzle only serve to enhance the striking beauty of the 100-year-old rhododendrons and the 70 varieties of camellias.

The trail slopes down to the beach (there is a step-free option), where around 7,500 US troops embarked to sail across the channel for the D Day landings in the Second World War. In just three days, I feel I have only scratched the surface of this captivating part of the world.

80 years on, it’s still the idyllic escape Daphne du Maurier imagined in her books.

How to plan your trip WATCHFUL EYE The dining room has been recently renovated

A two-night stay at Budock Vean (budockvean.co.uk), including dinner and breakfast, costs from £155 per person per night between June 4 and September 25.

A two-hour guided kayak

adventure with Koru Kayaking (korukayaking.co.uk) costs £45 per person, with a maximum of six people per tour.

An adult ticket for Trebah Garden (trebahgarden.co.uk) costs £12.

Food & Culture

food

30

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

New steak restaurant proves it’s at the town’s cutting edge One of the latest arrivals on Tunbridge Wells’ foodie scene is STEAK and as Lottie Bulmer discovers it’s certainly succeeding when it comes to serving up quality food for discerning diners – including vegetarians…

S

TEAK has had a difficult journey to its opening. It was scheduled to launch late last year but when Tunbridge Wells was put into the highest Covid tier that put an end to that. And then when the whole country was then plunged into lockdown in early January its

“The 10oz Ribeye (£24.50). It is cooked to my guest’s personal preference perfectly” shiny new doors had to remain firmly shut.

But now, with restaurants able to reopen and the lifting of most restrictions hopefully in sight next month, the restaurant - which is part of One Warwick Park Hotel – is finally up and running.

My editor asked that I go along to

TWODS Returns - Times of TW Advert 160 x 264mm + 3mm bleed.indd 1

try out its menu as being a vegetarian it would be interesting to see if STEAK which clearly specialises in fine cuts of ribeye and the like also delivered for non-meat eaters…

Enjoy The restaurant is One Warwick Park’s new flagship eaterie and on heading towards it my guest and I are instantly charmed by its scenic location on Chapel Place, away from the bustle of the town centre and surrounded by a cluster of artisan shops and cool bars.

On arrival we are warmly greeted

by STEAK’s manager, Robin Mallia.

He offers us a complimentary glass of prosecco as is custom with every STEAK guest and shows us to our table.

Robin introduces us to our waitress, Olivia who takes our drinks order (for me an Aperol Spritz and my guest Brewdog Punk

20/06/2021 21:14

Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

31

MASTER CHEFS Toby Wells (Left), Head Chef, Andre Woodward (Centre) and Oli Funnell (Right)

IPA) and hands us some menus. She’s very friendly and tells us that she has just finished school and was hired back in December before the lockdown, but only started waitressing at the restaurant a few weeks ago upon its official opening.

In terms of STEAK’s décor, the restaurant strikes a fine balance between being dark and atmospheric, yet glimmering with contemporary class. The mirrored walls give the impression that the restaurant is bigger than it is but also manages to add an air of intimacy as tables are sectioned off from each other with dividers, giving it an exclusive – and also safe socially distanced – feel.

roasted cauliflower steak (£14.50) and pan-fried smoky potato gnocchi (£11.50) – which I opt for.

Upon the dish’s arrival at our table I immediately smell the gnocchi’s smoky aroma which thanks to its earthy ingredients conjures up images of autumnal afternoons. They include toasted pecans, crispy sage, dolcelatte cream and smoked cherry tomatoes. The interesting combination presents an abundance of textures and enjoyable overall taste.

My guest chooses one of the steaks this restaurant is becoming well known for: the 10oz Ribeye (£24.50). It is cooked to my guest’s personal preference perfectly and served with a generous portion of chips and a mixed leaf salad and peppercorn sauce.

Obviously choosing a select cut from STEAK means there is a certain level of taste expectation, and I’m happy to say my guest said it did not disappoint. If you’re looking for a

Intimacy Being a vegetarian in a steak restaurant usually gravely limits choices, but I’m happy to report not at STEAK. Despite its name there is actually a good selection of meat-free options for those who have vegetarian or vegan diets.

To kick things off, I choose the panko crusted halloumi (£6.95) and my guest orders the crispy fried squid (£6.95).

The halloumi is garnished with pomegranate seeds. The latter’s tartness perfectly offset the creamy inside of the crispy halloumi and coolness of the cucumber crème fraiche. It isn’t your standard starter and takes you on a whistle-stop tour of tastes but it’s very pleasing on the palate.

The crispy fried squid and aioli is a classic starter done expertly well but with a slight twist thanks to the wedge of lime in place of lemon and a zingy mustard seed sauce on the side. The mixed leaf salad accompanies the dish perfectly.

When it comes to main courses STEAK offers two meat-free options: a vegan burger with

“Being a vegetarian in a steak restaurant usually gravely limits choices, but I’m happy to report not at STEAK”

classic, properly executed cut then STEAK goes above and beyond.

Unable to resist the selection of sides on offer we opt to share roasted broccoli with chilli and garlic (£4) which added enough of a kick without being too spicy.

We probably should have called it a day after our starters and mains, but we spot the intriguingly named ‘Eskimo Bars’ on the menu.

We discover they are two bars of chocolate brownie and vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate with hot salted caramel sauce (£7).

Garnished with flowers, fruit and a coulis along with a warm salted caramel on the side, they are a joy to behold – and taste. The sweetness of the coulis and salted caramel compliments the richness of the Eskimo bar perfectly.

The bars are probably enough to share between two, but if you’re looking for an indulgent pud then they will definitely hit the spot!

STEAK offers diners a calm and collected service, with a most welcoming atmosphere.

And the important thing to stress is that you don’t have to be a carnivore to enjoy dinner at STEAK thanks to its options for vegetarians and vegans. I’m pleased to say it really is inclusive for everyone.

Children are also welcome thanks to a special menu tailored for little ones – they even have the option of a mini 4oz steak with chunky chips and peas!

As we leave and head off back up the cobbled streets we agree that STEAK is perfect for any occasion: from a midweek date night, to a family meal. And it really is a cut above the rest…

To book a table visit steaktunbridgewells.co.uk or call 01892 552 592

PHOTO: David Sexton

MANAGER Robin Mallia

Food & Culture

food

32

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Only got 30 minutes to cook dinner?

Chetna Makan reckons that’s plenty of time to whip up a feast of Indian dishes The Great British Bake Off alumnus tells Prudence Wade about her latest cookbook – and it’s all about saving some time in the kitchen

T

HERE are a lot of misconceptions around Indian food: that it’s a ‘cheat’ meal from your local takeaway, or can only be made at home if you spend hours slaving over a hot stove.

These kind of stereotypes make Chetna Makan’s eyes roll. “People think it will take hours or sometimes days where you soak and you ferment – which is all true, but it’s not how we cook every day,” she says with exasperation.

Although it’s seven years since Makan appeared on The Great British Bake Off, she’s still roundly referred to as a ‘Bake Off favourite’ – and now she’s onto her fifth cookbook: Chetna’s 30 Minute Indian: Quick And Easy Everyday Meals.

It’s her latest challenge to preconceived ideas around Indian food; in 2019’s Chetna’s Healthy Indian she turned the idea that “Indian means greasy and unhealthy” on its head, she explains.

There was also another huge driving force behind her latest book: the pandemic. Like so many cooks, Makan noticed a shift in our approach to food over the past year or so.

She says her new cookbook was “written in the first lockdown [in 2020], completely at home. There was a big surge of trying all these amazing

spend so much time in the kitchen!’”

This got Makan thinking more deeply about what kind of food people actually want to cook, and she had a lightbulb moment: “Maybe it’s a good idea if I could do something in 30 minutes,” she mused. The idea of whipping a delicious dish up in just 15 minutes

“I was trying to think, ‘OK, what can we make today in 30 minutes?’”

sourdoughs and breads at home, and what I saw with my friends was it started with a bang – and then after a few weeks, everyone was just like, ‘I don’t want to cook, and I don’t want to

makes her belly-laugh, but it would seem like 30 minutes is the sweet spot.

And no, Makan says almost wearily, it’s not just a book of curries. There are some delicious curry meals catering to all different spice levels, but it’s got recipes for “everything – a bit of starters, a bit of snacks, some big meals, some small meals, for all seasons”.

This book was a unique experience, she says, because lockdown meant her children (Sia, 13 and Yuv, 11) could

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Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Gram flour sweets

actually see first-hand how it all came together.

Luckily for Makan, her kids ended up being a big help. “They would be like, ‘Mum how many recipes have you done? Mum, have you done 10 or not?’, because they knew my deadlines,” she says with a laugh. For Makan, one of the silver linings of lockdown was the opportunity to actually get her children to understand what she does for a living. “I was glad because they actually saw how much hard work goes into writing a book,” she says.

Ingredients: (Serves 8-10) n 100g ghee, plus extra for greasing n 170g gram flour (besan/chickpea flour) n 60g icing sugar n 20g ground almonds n ¼tspn ground cardamom n 10g toasted flaked almonds

Sumptuous They also ended up being her best and worst critics. “They definitely have 100% honest opinions,” she says with a playful groan. “You know whether it’s good, whether it’s really good, not that great, or ‘I really don’t want to eat it’.

They’ve got all these levels of opinions.”

Sia and Yuv must have eaten like royalty during lockdown, as many of the dishes in the book look truly sumptuous. Readers might be surprised these dishes only take half an hour; Makan says her inspiration was “literally the clock”, and she worked backwards from there.

“I was trying to think, ‘OK, what can we make today in 30 minutes? It was what can I do in that time but also keeping a variety: some people might like it spicy, some people like lots of gravy.”

We spoke at the beginning of lockdown restrictions easing in England, and Makan’s latest project was researching bakeries to visit – so she could try someone else’s cakes for a change.

Visiting restaurants is top of her to-do list: “Just to change your scenery and have nice food,” she says longingly. “I’m so looking forward to it. I cook good food, but it just doesn’t taste as good as if someone else is cooking it.”

And for those nights you aren’t at a restaurant, and need something delicious, fast and packed full of flavour? It might be time to try some of Makan’s new recipes.

Chetna’s 30 Minute Indian by Chetna Makan, photography by Nassima Rothacker, is published

by Mitchell Beazley, priced £20. Available now.

LIVE

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Coconut paneer tikka Ingredients: (Serves 4) For the paneer: n 200ml natural yogurt n 1tbsp tandoori masala n ½tsp salt n 450g paneer, cut into 2.5cm cubes n 2tbsp sunflower oil For the masala: n 2tbsp sunflower oil n 1tsp black mustard seeds n 1tbsp urad dal n 10 fresh curry leaves n 2–4 dried red chillies n 3 onions, thinly sliced n 60g fresh coconut, grated n ½tsp ground turmeric n ½tsp chilli powder n ¼tsp salt Method: 1. For the paneer, mix the yogurt, tandoori masala and salt together in a bowl. Add the paneer cubes

MUSIC

and gently turn in the marinade until well coated. Set aside while you start to prepare the masala.

2. Heat the oil in a pan, add the mustard seeds and urad dal and cook over a low heat for a minute.

Then add the curry leaves and chillies and cook for a few seconds.

Method: 1. Heat the ghee in a pan. Once it has melted, add the gram flour and cook over a low heat for eight minutes, stirring often, until it starts to change colour and smell toasted. The mixture will start off clumpy but will gradually bubble and become smooth and creamy.

2. Take the pan off the heat and let

the mixture cool for five minutes.

3. Meanwhile, grease a 20cm square cake tin and line with nonstick baking paper.

4. Mix the icing sugar, ground almonds and cardamom together in a bowl, then add the toasted gram flour mixture and stir to combine.

5. Transfer the mixture to the lined tin, then spread it out and level the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the toasted flaked almonds on top and let it cool in the refrigerator for five to 10 minutes until firm.

6. Cut it into small squares and serve. These sweets will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for an hour before serving.

3. Add the onions and cook over a medium heat for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Then stir in the coconut and cook for five minutes.

4. Meanwhile, heat the oil for the paneer in another pan, add the marinated paneer with all the excess marinade and cook over a high heat for five minutes, turning halfway through, until lovely and golden all over.

5. Add the cooked paneer to the onions and coconut with the turmeric, chilli powder and salt.

Mix well and cook over a medium heat for five minutes, then serve.

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Food & Culture

gardening

34

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

A garden designer explains why we should learn to love weeds Garden designer Matt Rees-Warren argues that many weeds should be left to flourish

W

ITH the growing season now well underway, weeds inevitably start to emerge in flowerbeds and your veg beds.

If you’re knee-deep in nettles, brambles and other pernicious weeds and just can’t seem to get them under control, maybe you need to take a step back to reflect on their untapped beauty and biodiversity benefits. So says garden designer Matt Rees-Warren, author of The Ecological Gardener, a new book that explores how a garden can work in harmony with nature.

“A lot of weeds are really just wildflowers, and the gardening public is starting to become conscious that they are really important to reversing the biodiversity decline,” says Rees-Warren.

He calls the prevailing idea that a garden dedicated solely to flowers is going to be best for wildlife, “not true”. In fact, “nettles and ragwort have a much higher relationship with lots of different wildlife than any other plant you’ll come across.”

Native versus non-native Many gardeners readily plant and encourage invasive non-native species including giant rhubarb, lady’s mantle, Spanish bluebell and Virginia creeper, yet

FEELING BLUE Native English bluebells have been taken over by the Spanish variety

view indigenous plants such as comfrey, daisy, dandelion and teasel as invasive weeds and quickly remove them, he points out.

“Most of the really bad invasive plants we see in this country – Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam – are all horticultural gardening plants that have escaped.

Gunnera is usually put by waterways and the seeds find their way into rivers and on to banks.

“The root to regaining a balance of biodiversity is through native plants” “Spanish bluebells, which are bigger, stronger and chunkier than our native variety, have taken over when they are released into the wild.

“Our own native alchemilla is a much more delicate variety than the non-native type which is often favoured. The more it is planted, the more chance there is that it will escape into the wild and push out our native species.

“The root to regaining a balance of

WALLFLOWER Matt Rees-Warren is encouraging us to embrace our gardens’ wildflowers

Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

biodiversity is through native plants which, over thousands of years, have developed very specialised relationships with wildlife.”

Time to rethink our weeding habits “Weeding is a cultural thing,” says Rees-Warren.

“It’s become a neat and tidiness thing. If you go to the garden centre and buy your beautiful cultivar plants, it’s much easier to just keep weeding around those.

“Or if you’re growing veg, it’s much easier to weed out everything else. People just become so attuned that ‘weeds’ are there to be got rid of when a lot of them are native plants that you should keep.”

“It’s allowing tidy tendencies to be pulled back and adapting a different mindset” How tidy do you need to be?

“It’s about giving over a small amount of space.

When people hear, ‘Turn your lawn into a wildflower meadow’ they look out and say, ‘Well, where am I going to sit?’ But maybe they could just plant a strip.

It’s about looking at it as a percentage.

“Maybe you’ve got an area around the edge which needs to grow long, or let plants like daisies take hold between your paving cracks.

“Just allow yourself a moment to say, ‘That’s my wild area’. It’s allowing tidy tendencies to be pulled back and adapting a different mindset.”

Tackling thugs like brambles, nettles and bindweed “Bindweed is native, and I would never advocate completely giving into something like that. It’s about a balance. Looking at brambles

and bindweed and saying they’ve all got to go is where the detriment comes in. If all of us get rid of those species, biodiversity decreases.

“Maybe you could keep a patch of nettles behind a shed. You need to find a spot where you can say, ‘That’s where I’ll stop my tidiness and allow things to go a bit wild’.”

Much wildlife depends on brambles, from the nectar in their flowers to their fruits in the autumn and the habitat created by their stems, Rees-Warren points out. Bindweed, perhaps the most vilified of our native species, is terrific for biodiversity. Dig some of it out, but if you can live with it in a container and treat it like a climber, wildlife will benefit, he adds.

Small changes, big impact You could create a nettle bed by planting them in a bucket or a raised bed, so the roots are contained at the side and the bottom, ReesWarren suggests. And you can make a wild area look pretty. “You can do this using long grass and flowering perennials. If you allow grass to grow long and cut a path through it, that’s the height of style.”

Embrace weeds in small garden spaces As well as planting non-native plants like, say, nasturtiums or tomatoes, in a small space, pot up a container with ox-eye daisies or bird’s foot trefoil, knowing that will aid indigenous wildlife, ReesWarren suggests.

How to help change mindsets You need to look at the bigger picture, ReesWarren observes. “I understand you would want to remove bindweed or ground elder so it doesn’t swamp the plants you’ve just spent a lot of money buying, but it has to be a balancing act.

“It’s down to just taking a moment to think about what you want to eradicate.

Native plants are going to have a greater relationship with native wildlife.”

The Ecological Gardener by Matt Rees-Warren is published by Chelsea Green, priced £20.

Available now.

NIP IT IN THE BUD Bindweed is a native plant good in moderation for biodiversity

ON THE CLOCK People often remove dandelions without considering their biodiversity impact

RUN WILD Giant Rhubarb is an invasive non-native species which are readily planted

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Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

health & wellbeing

How talking it out can benefit your inner self Liz Pearce is the CEO of The Counselling Centre in Tunbridge Wells, here she tells Lottie Bulmer how sharing thoughts can help make better sense of the world LAST WEEK, the Office of National Statistics reported that the feeling of happiness was back to the levels of February before the pandemic.

But according to Mental Health Foundation, as of the third week of June, 49 per cent of the population had felt anxious or worried.

The Counselling Centre, based in Tunbridge Wells, offers talking therapy services to help tackle these feelings, as Liz Pearce told the Times: “The centre was born against a background of people having few places to go which were affordable. We offer counselling for people in Kent and East Sussex at a reasonable price.

“Some clients come to see us over a period of many years, others come for a specific number of sessions” “We’re a registered charity and offer a different approach than you’ll find in the NHS or other services.

“In most cases, our clients see us for as long as they need to, and we work to get to the root of what’s troubling them.

“Some of our clients come to see us over a period of many years, whilst others choose to come for a specific number of sessions. We’re really fortunate to be able to work with our clients to give them what they need, rather than having to work within a set number of sessions.

“If you’re looking for private counselling it usually costs anything between £45 and £70 per hour, however we offer sessions between £15 to

ACTIVE LISTENING Counselling offers a confidential space £50 per hour.”

Liz shared how sometimes talking about your problems can seem like an unproductive way of tackling them.

“I think sometimes people can’t see why talking about a problem would be beneficial as they can think that talking about it isn’t going to change anything.

Confidential “Everyone has an inner world, which is essentially what’s going on in our mind.

It tends to govern how we make sense of the world around us and how we navigate relationships.

“The work of counselling is to explore what’s going on in our inner world, how we understand ourselves and what’s happened to us.

“Through that process, we can find different ways of doing things that enable us to live our lives more fully and freely.

Food & Culture

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

Surgery proves a real eye opener for TV chef

ALL EARS Liz Pearce shared what The Counselling Centre offers

By Richard Williams

“By talking about your thoughts and feelings, you’re sharing them in a safe space with someone who is actively listening. It shines a light on what’s happening in your inner world.

“Speaking to a counsellor is different to talking to friends and family because you might censor yourself subconsciously.

“Quite often if you disclose things to friends, you just get a torrent of advice and you might not want that – you might just need someone to listen.

“Counselling is definitively not giving advice. Most people know what they need to do,

37

they just need help figuring it out.

“What’s great is that the safe space in counselling is confidential. You can disclose how you’re feeling in a really honest way and speak openly.

Value “You can also experience ‘active listening’ which is when someone is absolutely focused on what you’re saying and giving you a sense of value, without judgement – it’s really rare to experience this kind of listening outside of the counselling space.

“There is a sense-making aspect to counselling, and over a period of time your counsellor will help you make sense of things you’re struggling with. Repeated patterns can be made sense of.

“We know that the relationship you build with your counsellor is incredibly important. For many of our clients, this is the most transformational aspect of their counselling experience.”

If you feel like counselling could be beneficial to you, drop an email to info@ thecounsellingcentre.org.uk or call 01892 548750.

Time to talk?

At The Counselling Centre you can talk in confidence about the challenges you’re facing in your life right now.

support we offer can be highly focused or more open-ended.

As a registered charity, we can provide assistance with fees.

Whether in person, online or over the phone, our expert counsellors help you address personal difficulties, build resilience and bring about long-lasting, positive change.

Depending on your need, the

Call us today on 01892 548750 to make your first appointment or visit

TUNBRIDGE WELLS celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager has said she is ‘over the moon’ after undergoing eye surgery.

The star of I’m a Celebrity Get me Out of here and The Real Marigold Hotel, said she decided to undergo the procedure after suffering with droopy and weepy eyes which caused discomfort and affected her day-to-day life.

Ms Shrager, who during lockdown launched a regular Saturday evening Cookalong that encouraged people at home to join her in cooking family food, said for years she would wake up every morning to heavy, sticky eyes, unable to open them straight away, and the condition has worsened in recent years.

The 70-year-old said: “The time had come where I knew this was a necessity, from a medical perspective, not one of vanity. I knew my eyes would only get worse.”

After contacting Tunbridge Wells clinic, Bella Vou, Rosemary decided to have Upper Eyelid Surgery – described as a quick and easy procedure carried out under local anaesthetic.

“During the procedure I felt incredibly comfortable, with no pain. It was over in no time.

“I’m absolutely over the

moon” she said. “I’ve noticed the biggest improvement when waking up in the morning - my eyes now open wider and the feeling of not having heavy eyes is the biggest relief.

“My eyes don’t weep anywhere near as much as they did, and my whole face seems alive. I feel like I have my eyes back, which has given me newfound confidence.

“You think that, as you age, it’s normal for everything to go south, but I hadn’t realised quite how bad my eyes had got.”

Amir Nakhdjevani, Lead

Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Bella Vou, said: “We meet many clients that often say they are looking tired, aged, can no longer apply eye shadow, mascara or have impaired vision due to hooded eyelids.

“This can often affect their physical and mental wellbeing. Upper Blepharoplasty can give one, improved self-esteem and confidence in their social and work life, as well as medical benefits of improved vision.

For me, it is a pleasure to help my clients be happier and healthier.”

FRESH EYES The celebrity chef has undergone eye surgery

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Food & Culture

goingout 7 days of activities

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

HEAVEN SCENT Craft your own perfume at Salomons Estate

By Lottie Bulmer

MESSY KIDS Dunorlan Park is the setting for this messy play group

STATE OF THE ART: Known for his iconic album cover designs, Sir Peter Blake celebrates 89 years as an artist AFTER the disappointing news of the lockdown restrictions continuing for another month and the weather taking a turn for the worse, we could all do with something to lift the spirits.

Here at the Times we have searched high and low for the best events to get out and about in the local area and make the most of what our local attractions have to offer…

POP ART A celebratory exhibition of Sir Peter Blake’s 89 years as a pop artist is open at ArtHub on Mount Ephraim.

Described as the godfather of British pop art, Blake’s work reflects his fascination with popular culture and his ability to find the beautiful in the mundane along with his iconic album cover designs for the Beatles, Paul Weller, The Who, and Oasis.

The exhibition is open until July 3 and for more information, visit arthubgallery.co.uk SIGNATURE SCENT If you’ve been looking for a new scent for the summer season, why not try making your own?

At the Salomons Estate tomorrow (Thursday 24) join The Perfume Studio’s master class where MUSIC AND MEALS The Poacher and Partridge have a local band playing on Saturday

you can design your own unique eau de parfum or aftershave with the help of a perfume stylist.

After mixing and matching from the Studio’s unique range of master perfumer designed blends, each new scent is named and recorded so you can reorder your new signature scent at any time.

Places on the class cost £49 per person and can be booked by searching ‘The Perfume Studio Tunbridge Wells Masterclass’ on Eventbrite.co. uk. For further information contact Helen on 07973 884105 or kentandsussex@ theperfumestudio.com RUN RIOT Parents looking for a new group to join with their little ones can sign up to ‘Messy Kids’, an interactive sensory messy play group with fun props and music.

The group was launched by Juliet in April who has recently moved from London to Tunbridge Wells with her daughter. She was looking for baby classes to attend with her daughter and spotted that there was very not much going on in the town in terms of messy play groups.

Messy Kids are currently running outdoor dates every Tuesday and Thursday in Dunorlan

Park and each week there is a different themed play area for children to explore.

To sign up you and your little one to a session, call or email Juliet on 0765683388 or Juliet@ messykids.co.uk DINNER AND A SHOW This weekend, enjoy food with tunes at The Poacher and Partridge in Tonbridge.

Great music will be playing with freshly poured pints, expertly curated cocktails, and the very best of seasonal and local produce.

Local band, The Strydes are playing at the country pub from 3pm to 5pm on Saturday (June 26).

You’ll need to book a table at the pub to enjoy the set, which can be done by visiting elitepubs. com or calling 01732 358934.

JOG ON Blow out the cobwebs on Sunday (June 27) with the Hawkhurst 5K and 10K runs to raise funds for the Hawkhurst Community Trust for the building of a new community centre for the village.

The route will follow a multi-terrain route around picturesque trails surrounding

FUN RUN Hawkhurst is holding a fundraising race this weekend

Hawkhurst.

The race is open to runners of all abilities, there will be medals for all finishers and you even have the option to walk the 5K. There is also a 1K children’s run prior to the start of the main races at 9:30am.

The race will start at The Moor, Hawkhurst, Kent, TN18 4NX. For more information or to enter, call 01797 229955 or email info@nice-work.org.uk ALES ON THE RAILS At the Spa Valley Railway, you can hop on board the ‘Real Ale Train’ where you can take in the beautiful views of the High Weald countryside from the comfort of a private compartment.

The on-board experience will last approximately two and a half hours and tickets include two return train journeys, first pint of ale and allocated seating in a private compartment for up to six persons.

Access to further pints which can be purchased on board the train and taken to your compartment by volunteers wearing appropriate PPE. Tickets are only £60 for a group of up to six persons. Over 18s only. Visit spavalleyrailway. co.uk to book your tickets.

STEAMING AHEAD Hop on the Spa Valley Railway for the Real Ale Train

Books

Wednesday June 23 | 2021

The bookcase…

Over the past year or so more people have had the chance to fall in love with reading again. Here’s our pick of this week’s top reads to enjoy

FICTION

Assembly by Natasha Brown Published in hardback by Hamish Hamilton, priced £12.99 (ebook £7.99).

Available now

Natasha Brown’s debut is a hauntingly accurate novel about the stories we construct for ourselves and others. It’s narrated by a black British woman who is preparing to attend a grand garden party hosted by her boyfriend’s family at their English countryside estate.

With her perfectly laid out path ahead of her, she tries to change the narrative – even if it comes at the cost of her life.

The novel’s daring structure and distilled prose perfectly captures how colonialist structures have been woven into British society – through race and class, safety and freedom, winners and losers. A completely captivating read you won’t be able to put down.

(Review by Georgina Grouse)

Widowland by CJ Carey A 1950s dystopia with an Orwellian echo, Widowland is a historical fiction thriller where the Nazis were never defeated and Britain is in the grip of a Grand Alliance, ruled by Germany. Despite the title, the novel actually focuses on Rose, an upper-caste woman or Geli, who lives a privileged life in the regime – the widows of widowland are marginalised as much in the novel as in the

totalitarian society. This does seem a missed opportunity given their interesting backstories, complex group dynamics and ultimate significance within the plot. A slow burn with a rush of culminating action, Carey’s intricately detailed portrait of the convincingly cruel reimagined history takes centre stage over the storyline, championing a clear feminist statement.

(Review by Rebecca Wilcock)

Still Life by Sarah Winman

Published in hardback by Fourth Estate, priced £16.99 (ebook £9.99). Available now

7/10

This is quite a saga, and a very meandering one.

A soldier (Ulysses) meets an art historian (Evelyn) in Italy during the last throes of World War II, and then their lives diverge completely. Ulysses returns to the pub and the bawdy gaggle of mates he left behind, while Evelyn lectures on the art that means so much to her. From there, Sarah Winman, author of the brilliant Tin Man, presents a winding history of the two, looking at the impact of fate, chance and a good gamble (along with the wisdom of a parrot). Sections are hammy, and a real connection or sense of empathy is patchy with certain characters, especially the ones the rest of the cast revolve around (Peg, Cress). It makes grasping their relationships a little elusive. Others are wonderfully drawn (the kid, Evelyn, Ulysses), as is the architecture of Florence. However, while it’s touching, witty and very evocative of a post-war world, Still Life ultimately feels like it’s giddily trying to do too much. (Review by Ella Walker)

ONE YOU MAY HAVE MISSED

The Katharina Code by Jørn Lier Horst (published in paperback by

HANNAH KIRSOP 8/10

CRAVING FOREIGN TRAVEL

Nightingale by Marina Kemp (published in paperback by 4th

Penguin, priced £8.99) Set in Norway, this is the first in a breakaway set of ‘cold case’ novels featuring Horst’s hugely appealing detective, William Wisting.

Twenty-four years ago, Katharina Haugen went missing. Her case was never solved and every year, Wisting reviews the files for a breakthrough and visits her husband, Martin.

When a newly established ‘cold case’ team begin investigating a kidnapping from around the same time as Katharina’s disappearance, a link to Martin is discovered…. but he has vanished. So Wisting’s investigation begins, brilliantly complemented by Line, his journalist daughter, and her own enquiries.

A former police offer and investigations head, Horst knows his subject and writes with conviction, creating an exciting plot with interesting and likeable characters.

Estate, priced £6.99)

Hannah Kirsop grew up in Kent and now lives in Horsmonden with her family. She loves to read and share recommendations and runs Bainden Book Club for a group of local women to discuss interesting fiction and non-fiction in a range of genres. You can find www.baindenbookshelf.com online or on Instagram: @baindenbookshelf

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8/10

Published in hardback by Quercus, priced £14.99 (ebook £8.49). Available now

9/10

Guest book reviewer

Food & Culture

Set in the south of France, the book focuses on a 24-year-old Parisian girl, Marguerite, whose arrival in a small village to care for an elderly gentleman stirs up secrets, sorrows and passions among the villagers. Marguerite comes with a secret that gradually unfolds as the story is told.

It is beautifully written with charming and atmospheric descriptions of the location which transport you to rural France. It is, however, the strong characters, their recognisable weaknesses, and their diverse and complex relationships with one another which will keep you engaged.

A wonderful debut novel – whilst foreign travel is limited, this literary trip to France will more than compensate.

9/10 80’S THROWBACK (CHILDREN)

Back Home by Michelle Magorian (published in paperback by Puffin, priced £7.99)

9/10

First published in 1984, Back Home tells the story of 12-year-old Rusty who has recently returned home to Britain in 1945, having been sent to the US as an evacuee five years earlier. Focusing on her adjustment to life in England, Rusty has to contend with many changes in her life including a new brother, different food, a new education at boarding school and....the grey, British weather! A classic misfit coming-of-age story, will Rusty ever feel happy and content with her new life?

Many will have read, and watched the television film, of Magorian’s more famous ‘Goodnight Mister Tom’ - Back Home is an equally enjoyable read for ages 9-12ish with a set of fantastic characters playing out a thoughtful and moving story.