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: ’S I P DE R H SI EA S R IN A Y BE N O IN EM SI W M FU M AT GY
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
ONE BIG THANK YOU: TV star Jason Donovan surprises Taylor Made Dreams’ founder Suzi Mitchell (centre) as part of last week’s One Big Thank You on BBC 1’s The One Show. See more on page 3
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TWBC welcomes applications for £100k Community Support Fund By Ben Cornwell WITH the cost-of-living crisis continuing to directly impact many of the most vulnerable households in the Borough, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) hopes to provide financial assistance to organisations within the community after setting aside £100,000 to create a Community Support Fund. The Council plans to use the fund to offer five one-off grants of around £20,000 to local organisations. The grants could be used by organisations to fund specific projects, expand existing services or to aid new needs that have been identified. TWBC welcomes applications for the grants until 5pm on Friday January 19.
Leader of the Council Ben Chapelard said told the Times: “The community organisations who received grants last time do amazing work but sadly we live in a society where too many still rely on their help. It is very important therefore for the Borough Partnership to do all it can through the Community Support Fund”
Eligible Last year, several charities, including Nourish, Charlie’s Angels Kitchen, West Kent Mind, Number 1 Community Trust and six community larders benefited from the financial aid. To be eligible for a grant, organisations must be recognised as one of the following: registered charities, charitable
incorporated organisations, unincorporated associations, trusts, limited companies, PLCs, schools, or a Parish Council in the Borough. As part of the application process, organisations will be required to provide a business plan to explain the nature of the support they intend to offer and will require an auditable return once the funds have been spent. The Council has suggested that smaller groups or organisations work together or with larger organisations to make a joint application. For further information on eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit: tunbridgewells.gov.uk/communityand-leisure/love-where-we-live/ community-support-fund
INSIDE: New Cabinet Member for Finance appointed – page 2
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
This week… Wadhurst’s Uplands Academy launches
consultation for phased sixth form closure
X MARKS THE SPOT: We talk to our local political parties about what a 2024 General Election means for the town and Borough.P4
By Ben Cornwell
LEGAL DUTY: Law firm Cripps reveals that its sustainability work has been rewarded with a B Corp certificate. P8
UPLANDS Academy, formerly Uplands Community College, launched a consultation on December 14 for a phased closure of its sixth form provision from September 2024. The phased closure would mean that there would be no new admissions to the sixth form in September 2024, but students currently in year 12 will continue to have full access to the courses they have started so they can complete their courses in summer 2025. The academy’s sixth form would then fully close in September 2025. In September 2022, the Wadhurst-based community college received academy status after partnering with Beacon Academy in Crowborough to form a multi-academy trust named the MARK Education Trust.
Applications ECO EDUCATION: Mayfield student celebrates her win in a prestigious national geography competition. P19 STAR MAN: Local artist Guy Portelli tells us about his new Trinity exhibition celebrating the legacy of David Bowie. P22
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Anna Robinson, Executive Headteacher and Chief Executive Officer of MARK Education Trust told the Times: “Excellent progress has been made in the last 16 months at Uplands Academy, with subject areas fully-staffed, the appointment of Heads of Year for each year group and a significant investment in non-teaching staff, buildings, and infrastructure, including a successful Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) bid to the value of £572,000 to upgrade fire compliance. All of these enhancements are further enabling our trust to continue to support our teachers to teach and our students to learn. “With continuously low applications to Uplands Academy sixth form, we would need to heavily subsidise the sixth form from other areas of the 11-16 school provision, reversing much of the progress that has been made since academisation and potentially compromising our drive to advance the educational attainment, progress and enrichment
opportunities for the rest of our school.” According to the academy’s sixth form consultation document, their total number of sixth form students has significantly dropped since the 2016-17 school year from 171 students to only 78 in the current cohort. The Department for Education’s ‘Making Significant Changes to an Open Academy’ 2022 guidance states that the average class size for sixth form teaching groups should be at least 15. Based on the current applications for September 2024, the average class size at the academy would be between six and seven students. The document further states that it is the ‘intention’ of the academy that there will be no staff redundancies as a result of a phased closure. Uplands Academy Headteacher Chris Connor said: “Throughout the consultation and
TWBC appoints new Cabinet finance chief By Elena Percy TUNBRIDGE Wells Borough Council (TWBC) Leader Ben Chapelard has appointed Councillor Mark Ellis (Lib Dem, left) to the position of Cabinet Member for Finance and Governance with immediate effect. Finance and Governance had been Councillor Chapelard’s responsibility following the resignation of Councillor Christopher Hall in December 2023 following his vote against the Local Plan. Councillor Ellis, who represents St John’s ward said: “I am honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility and excited to lead the team in ensuring Tunbridge Wells Borough Council continues to manage its finances responsibly and effectively. My priorities will be maintaining fiscal stability, securing funding for essential services and investing in our community’s future.”
Responsible Cllr Ellis will be responsible for overseeing the council’s budget, financial planning, investments, and revenue generation. He will work closely with the council’s Chief Executive and other senior officers. He has served as a member of the Council for over five years and is a member of the Finance and Governance Cabinet Advisory Board.
Hospital parking income increase sparks criticism By Archie Lawrence AN increase in hospital trusts’ gross income from car parking fees across England has sparked criticism from the Liberal Democrats. Locally, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust’s (MTW) car parking revenue increased by over 60 per cent between 2021/2022 and 2022/2023. The Times spoke to two local politicians about the issue. Mike Martin, Prospective Liberal Democrat MP for Tunbridge Wells told the Times: “This Conservative Government, supported by Greg Clark MP, has allowed hospital car park fees to become a tax on caring for visitors, hardworking NHS staff and patients.” He added: “The Government has failed to deliver its manifesto promise to end unfair car park charges by making parking free for those in greatest need. They should be ashamed”. MTW generated £1,437,757 in visitor and patient parking charges in the financial year 2022/23. At MTW, parking is free for visitors and patients
regardless of the outcome, all of the sixth form focus will be on ensuring that we continue to support our current students to achieve the very best outcomes and reach their chosen destinations as well as creating the most memorable experience possible.” Other possible co-educational schools for 16 to 18-year-olds within ten miles of Uplands Academy include Beacon Academy in Crowborough and Heathfield Community College. The eight-week consultation regarding a phased closure for Uplands Academy sixth form will close on February 8. All stakeholders have the opportunity to express their views on the proposal by reading the consultation document and associated electronic form, which is located on the Uplands Academy website. for the first half hour, but costs £2.50 from 30-60 minutes and increases incrementally per hour, with it costing £15 to park for 16-24 hours. Greg Clark MP commenting on the criticism from the Liberal Democrats said: “The pledge was to make parking free for those in greatest need, including disabled people, frequent outpatient attenders, parents of sick children staying overnight and staff working night shifts. This is the case at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals. This eliminates costs for those in need, while making sure there are enough spaces for everyone.” Parking concessions at MTW include: free parking for blue badge holders, parents of a child being cared for in Neonatal Intensive Care, oncology and renal patients. Parking for longterm visits costs £10 for seven days. Meanwhile, the figures show nationally that car parking fees paid by hospital staff soared more than eight-fold compared to the previous year, from £5.6million in 2021/22 to £46.7 million in 2022/23. The enormous jump is because parking charges scrapped during the pandemic were reintroduced in March last year. Patricia Marquis, the Royal College of Nursing’s director for England, said: “For nursing staff and support workers, the soaring cost of parking takes too much of their low wage. “Government and the NHS must rethink – leaving nursing staff out of pocket just for doing their jobs is wholly unfair.” Current NHS guidance, updated in March 22, says that disabled people, frequent outpatient attenders, parents of sick children staying overnight and staff working night shifts should park for free. Trusts, on a voluntary basis, should also ensure fees are “reasonable for the area” – but can decide how they charge.
Police confirm death on Tunbridge Wells Common POLICE have confirmed that a person has died after collapsing on Tunbridge Wells Common. Emergency services were contacted at around midday on Tuesday January 8, where they tried to resuscitate, however it was confirmed by a spokesperson for South East Coast Ambulance Service that despite the efforts of ambulance crews, attempts to resuscitate were unsuccessful and the person was pronounced dead at the scene.
Appeal for information following sexual assault OFFICERS are appealing for information after it was alleged a woman was sexually assaulted in Tunbridge Wells. The incident occurred on January 1, 2024 between Lady’s Gift Lane and Kibbles Lane. The suspect was described as white with an Irish accent, in his early 30s, slim, tall – approximately 5ft 11ins – with short dark hair and stubble. He was seen wearing a dark jacket and jeans. Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. Residents living nearby with doorbell cameras and other home security systems, as well as motorists with dashcam footage, are also urged to check footage which may assist the investigation. If you can help, call the West Kent appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/70/24. You can also contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form on their website.
Landslip affects rail services on Hastings line A LANDSLIP in Robertsbridge, East Sussex on Friday January 5 caused major disruption to Southeastern services, with no trains running on the Hastings line between Hastings and Tunbridge Wells and a limited service between Battle and Tunbridge Wells. If you were affected by the landslip and delayed by 15 minutes or more you can claim ‘Delay Repay’ compensation online at: southeasternrailway.co.uk This weekend, there will be no Southeastern trains on January 13 and 14 running to and from London Victoria.
New vendors to begin trading in Ely Court ELY COURT, the arcade linking Camden Road and Royal Victoria Place, is welcoming two new occupants to the space. Caribbean restaurant Spicy ’n’ Nice, will be serving authentic Caribbean food including Smoked Jerk beef, lamb, chicken and fish. Contemporary café Montagus, will be serving artisan coffee, sweet bites, and gourmet sandwiches. By night, Montagus will become a wine bar, accompanied by a menu of regularly changing specials.
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Charity CEO gets ‘surprise of her life’ By Grace Corcoran LAST week, local charity CEO Suzi Mitchell was surprised on national television. Suzi, CEO of Taylor Made Dreams (TMD), a charity which supports children with lifelimiting illnesses, appeared on BBC The One Show’s ‘One Big Thank You’ a weekly feature of the programme which celebrates people who go the extra mile to help others in the community. Gracie Harriman-Browning Head of Fundraising at the Childrensalon nominated Suzi for the award, and along with PR Sarah Raine, secretly hatched a plan with One Show producers to get Suzi to London without her suspecting a thing. The date of the surprise was scheduled for Friday November 24, 2023, the same date as the biennial TMD Ball, the biggest fundraising event in the calendar, making the undercover operation even more difficult. Gracie told the Times she spun a story that she had to do an interview on The One Show in London alone. “Suzi knows that would be my idea of hell so I knew she would agree to come with me if she could,” Gracie explained. Suzi was then surprised by a performance
SECAmb announces appointment of new Chair FOLLOWING South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, (SECAmb) Chairman David Astley’s decision to step down, SECAmb announced last week (January 2) the appointment of a new Chair, will take effect at the end of May 2024. Usman Awais Khan will begin a three-year term with SECAmb. Usman has been Managing Director of Modus Europe Limited since 2012. He is also Chair of the Motor Neurone Disease Association and Vice Chair of London Metropolitan University.
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SURPRISE! Suzi Mitchell with Jason Donovan from Australian actor and singer Jason Donovan, who she said, ‘showed a real interest in what the charity does’. She added: “I can honestly say that I have never been gobsmacked before, but this was the biggest surprise of my life! I was firmly of the belief I was there to support Gracie and Childrensalon. “It was only when Jason Donovan spun round and started singing to me that I wondered why he was singing to me and not Gracie!” The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells gave a room free of charge for the production crew to film messages of support for Suzi from family, friends and people supported by the charity. Sarah Raine enlisted the help of Dave Richardson, Fundraiser and Erin Warnett, Personal Assistant from TMD, in order to pull off organising the messages of support.
Picture: The Pantiles
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
She said: “As you can imagine, for someone as wonderful as Suzi, everyone I spoke to was delighted to send a message! I had to turn it all around in literally a couple of days and everyone stepped up brilliantly! John Bishop, who is our Charity Patron, was very happy to record his own personal message too.”
Messages Suzi, who was shown the messages of support during the filming of the ‘One Big Thank You’, added: “ When I saw all the lovely messages and tributes on the TV trailer I was so overwhelmed, all those wonderful people who are incredibly special to me and to the charity. “As we acknowledge our tenth year this year, it really made me see how far we have come as a charity and how many people have helped us to get where we are today.”
Legendary stand-up Ben Elton returns to Assembly Hall
Covid-19 walk-in clinic continues into New Year
By Jack Thornton
By Elena Percy
FOLLOWING an impressive array of comedic acts performing at the Assembly Hall Theatre in 2023 including Dawn French, Ricky Gervais and Jimmy Carr, the theatre has announced a new stellar comedy line-up for 2024, with the multi-award winning Ben Elton returning to Tunbridge Wells. Ben marked his return to stand up after a 15-year hiatus in 2019 with his critically acclaimed sold-out UK tour. For 2024, the legendary stand-up is going back on the road with a brand new live show – Authentic Stupidity. The world has changed a lot since Ben last toured five years ago with the emergence of Artificial Intelligence, but Ben is here to warn you that AI is not the greatest threat that we face – it’s Authentic Stupidity. He told the Times: “The verdict’s in! Humanity is thick! Homo halfwit. The idiot branch of the Ape family! We need signs to tell us to step off escalators, we elect gibbering fools to lead us and now we’ve invented Artificial Intelligence which is actually going to replace us! “I’ve spent 45 years in comedy exploring the outer limits of human idiocy and my mission has never been more timely. Forget AI! It’s AS we need to be worrying about!” Ben Elton’s career spans over four decades and includes seminal and groundbreaking television shows (The Young Ones, Blackadder, Upstart Crow), West End plays (Popcorn, Upstart Crow), West End musicals (We Will Rock You, The Beautiful Game, Close up: The Twiggy Musical), best-selling novels (Stark, Dead Famous, Two
THE COVID-19 pop-up vaccination clinic at Royal Victoria Place (RVP), located in units 157-159 has extended its dates into the new year. The walk-in clinic, which was operating just before Christmas, will now remain open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from January 4 to 27, 9.30-5.30pm. The Covid-19 vaccination programme is now in its third autumn season. Vaccination helps to protect against severe illness, hospitalisations and deaths from Covid-19. Last month at Tunbridge Wells Hospital between December 2-8, 2023 30 people went into hospital with coronavirus. Those eligible include residents in a care home for older adults, all adults aged 65 years and over, those aged six months to 64 years in a clinical risk group, frontline health and social care workers, people aged 12 to 64 years who are household contacts of people with immunosuppression and people aged 16 to 64 years who are carers and staff working in care homes for older adults.
Brothers) and feature films (Maybe Baby, Three Summers, All is True). He will be performing for one night at the Assembly Hall Theatre on October 15. Also confirmed to be coming to Tunbridge Wells in 2024 are British comedians Sarah Millican, Rhod Gilbert, Ed Gamble and John Bishop. There will also be a stage performance of the popular BBC radio comedy panel show ‘I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue’. The stage show, which will be coming to the Assembly Hall Theatre on Monday March 11, will include the likes of the Tony Hawks, Pippa Evans, Marcus Brigstocke, Rory Bremner and Colin Sell at the piano, with host Jack Dee back in the chair. Alongside these shows the venue announced on Tuesday, January 9, it will also be showcasing a five-day run of the hit musical Blood Brothers from April 16-20. Full ticket information for all events are available on the Assembly Hall Theatre website.
The drop-in centre at RVP (Unit 157-159) does not require an appointment. To check whether you are eligible visit getvaccinatednow. co.uk
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Is the blue wall falling? New poll indicates Lib Dems are hot on the heels of the Tories in Tunbridge Wells them neck and neck. “Unlike others, Greg is entirely focused on working for the people of Tunbridge Wells, and whether a poll has him 250 votes ahead, or winning with a 12 per cent majority, each day he will continue serving the town and our villages with the same commitment he has shown for the last 18 years.” Election Maps UK predicts if a general election was held now, the Conservatives would retain their seat with 34.1 per cent of the vote, Lib Dem with 31.9 per cent and Labour with 21.9 per cent. Electoral Calculus predicts Conservatives would
receive 32.7 per cent, Labour 29.1 per cent and Lib Dems 21.9 per cent of the vote but recognises that smaller parties like Lib Dems are harder to model. The Labour Party have also declared Tunbridge Wells a ‘non-battleground seat’ in a published list of 211 seats considered to be non-target constituencies. When asked whether he was worried about Labour potentially splitting the vote and helping the Conservatives hold Tunbridge Wells, Cllr Hugo Pound responded: “No, because we think we’re going to win next time. We do, seriously.”
LOCAL POLITICAL PARTIES HAVE THERE SAY:
By Zac Attewell WITH news that Rishi Sunak is planning a General Election in the second half of the year, a new poll indicates that the Liberal Democrats are trailing Conservative MP Greg Clark by as little as under 250 votes. Tunbridge Wells has returned a Conservative member in every general election since its foundation in 1974. The seat has traditionally been seen as a firmly wedged brick in the Conservative Party’s ‘blue wall’ – a bloc of Tory-held constituencies in the South of England – with Mr Clark receiving an outright majority of votes in every election since 2010. So, it may come as a shock to learn that a recent MRP (multi-level regression and post stratification polling) poll from Stonehaven has predicted that if a general election were to happen today, the Conservatives would win Tunbridge Wells by a margin of only 241 votes, the lowest in its history. The MRP model uses national polling on voting preferences, broken down into different demographic groups to predict how different constituencies, based on the recent boundary changes, would vote. Previous MRPs have had limited predictive power in recent times and fail to account for unique local issues that might affect how someone might vote. Mike Martin, the Liberal Democrats’ prospective
parliamentary candidate, told the Times, “[This poll] reflects what I hear on the doorstep, day in day out, that voters – including many longstanding former Conservative voters – have had enough of this incompetent and tired government.” The poll predicted the Conservatives marginally claiming victory in Tunbridge Wells with 33.6 per cent of the vote, closely followed by the Lib Dems with 33.1 per cent with Labour a distant third at 17.0 per cent. The remainder of the votes are expected to be cast for minor parties.
Uncertainty In response to the poll, Councillor James McInroy, Chairman of Tunbridge Wells Conservatives, said: “Predicting the future is no exact science, and these polls [and this type of polling] should always be taken with a pinch of salt. But what all the polls have in common is that the people of Tunbridge Wells recognise the great work that Greg Clark has done for our community, and will vote for him to continue this. “Both Electoral Calculus and Polling Report agree, with Greg leading by 4.5 per cent and 12 per cent respectively. However, there is uncertainty over which party finishes second. Electoral Calculus has Labour 7 per cent ahead of the Liberal Democrats, whilst Polling Report puts
A TW Labour spokesperson says: “We need a General Election as soon as possible. People are fed up with a government gripped by scandal. They have had enough of broken public services and their household budgets hammered by mortgage, tax and inflation increases. The country wants change. Labour has a plan to end the cost-of-living crisis, to take back our streets, get the NHS back on its feet, provide cheaper energy bills, and give more opportunities for our children. Labour is the only party able to make these changes happen. Not the Lib Dems. Not the Greens. Rishi Sunak should call an election now.” A TW Lib Dem spokesperson adds: “Voters across the constituency tell us they want change now. In Tunbridge Wells this means voting for Liberal Democrat Mike Martin – Labour cannot win here. It’s sad but predictable that the Conservatives are clinging onto power rather than facing the verdict of the British people. While this goes on, NHS waiting lists keep soaring, people struggle to see their GP and the cost of living crisis continues to bite. We’re looking forward to the General Election. We have a great candidate – Mike Martin – and we are ready for it when it comes.”
Cllr Tom Dawlings, Leader of the Conservative
Group Tunbridge Wells says: “I had no expectation that there would be a General Election before the Autumn. I am supportive of giving the Government time to fulfil their plan laid out last year. The local focus can now be solely on the important May elections for TWBC. It is imperative that we replace the tone-deaf Lib Dem-led coalition, which fails to understand that over a million pounds of fines in six months for traffic offences in Mount Pleasant indicates a problem. The focus should be attracting visitors, not discouraging them with fines and parking fees, taking money from the local economy.”
John Hurst, Tunbridge Wells Green Party’s Parliamentary Candidate comments: “The country shouldn’t have to wait until the second half of the year for a general election. Today the country is being run for the benefit of a tiny number of people who are growing richer and more powerful at the expense of the majority. “By voting Green, people can show they share our faith that the UK is a country of good, compassionate, talented people and that together we can solve the problems facing us by investing properly in our public services and in the environment and transforming our tax system. Together we can create a fairer, greener country.” The Times reached out to The Alliance for comment.
Tunbridge Wells Experiences January Job Boom Tunbridge Wells is buzzing with employment activity this January as the recruitment market witnesses an unprecedented surge in job opportunities. The start of the year has seen an influx of job postings across various industries, creating a bustling atmosphere in the town’s employment landscape.
pandemic has created a demand for skilled professionals in technology-related roles. Tunbridge Wells is experiencing a surge in openings for IT specialists, digital marketers, and data analysts as businesses adapt to the evolving landscape and invest in technology to stay competitive.
One key factor contributing to the heightened recruitment activity is the traditional New Year hiring spree. Many businesses in Tunbridge Wells are leveraging the fresh start that January brings to expand their teams and kickstart new projects. Employers are capitalizing on the optimism and energy associated with the beginning of the year to attract top talent and achieve their business objectives.
The town’s strategic location and proximity to London are also playing a role in the recruitment boom. Tunbridge Wells has become an attractive hub for businesses seeking a balance between urban accessibility and a more relaxed lifestyle, drawing professionals to the area.
Additionally, the economic rebound from the challenges of the previous year has injected renewed confidence into businesses. With signs of recovery on the horizon, companies in Tunbridge Wells are eager to strengthen their workforce and position themselves for growth in 2024. This optimistic outlook is translating into a multitude of job opportunities across sectors such as law, accountancy, technology, finance, and automotive. Furthermore, the digital transformation accelerated by the
In conclusion, the bustling recruitment market in Tunbridge Wells this January is a result of a confluence of factors, including the traditional New Year hiring surge, economic recovery, and the town’s growing appeal to businesses. As job seekers explore exciting opportunities, the local job market promises a vibrant start to the year for both employers and prospective employees alike. For all your recruitment needs, contact Neil Simmons, TN Recruits. neil@tnrecruits.com 01892 571105 www.tnrecruits.com
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And, most fight hard - if that’s the portrayed as pitting two people against one other, fuellingfurther furtherandimportant that, whatever your differences, Call us today on that truly have your back. willing to work of all, you together should agree Sometimes right route for you. against one other, fuelling Have the best conflict and unhappiness. But it your children’s best interest will that, whatever your differences, conflict and unhappiness. But it Seek out the right legal and to agree the terms of their this means people Have the around best doesn’thave have tobe bethat thatway. way. come first. your children’s best can interest doesn’t you financial help, too.toDivorce divorce, mediation bewill backing people around you come first. Try mediation can beSo, a long and intense way of achieving a down So, how can you Friendswhen and how can youmake makea great Friends and Try mediation process, so it’s worth investing settlement. The mediator you don’t Some couples finalise the terms of family are vital familylaw@thomasmansfield.co.uk family are aa vital yours a ‘better’ divorce yours a ‘better’ their divorce between themselves, support time in finding professionals actsSome as an independent to, and couples finalise the terms of want support Get the measure of your divorce with the help of theirafamily law divorce between themselves, you click with. thirdtheir party, helping couple that can be 65 The High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XX relationship solicitors. However, sticking points with the help their of theirissues family law Get the measure of your work through hard. But For more information visit our website: or problems in communicating can sticking points Blame-throwing and bad feeling andsolicitors. relationship BE PREPARED reachthis. aHowever, resolution. 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NEWS
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Local NHS services given boost as new diagnostic centre opens
VIP VISIT: (L to r): MPs Greg Clark, Tracy Crouch, Victoria Atkins and Helen Grant
By Archie Lawrence A MULTI-million-pound diagnostic centre which helps patients quickly get the scans they need has been officially opened by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Victoria Atkins, during a visit to Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) on Tuesday January 2. Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark also attended the visit. He told the Times, “The expansion of the diagnostic centre is really great news for my constituents. The centre is already speeding up diagnoses and will make sure that people can be treated earlier, and those who don’t need it will have less time to worry.” The West Kent Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) is near Maidstone Hospital and will enable thousands more patients to get faster access to tests. The centre at Hermitage Court also provides additional clinic rooms and x-ray, respiratory and cardiology rooms.
During her visit on Tuesday January 2, the Secretary of State talked to clinical staff working in the purpose built centre and patients undergoing treatment. Ms Atkins and Mr Clark were also joined by Chatham and Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch and Maidstone and Weald MP Helen Grant. The politicians sat down with members of MTW’s senior management team to hear about the staff initiatives and innovation which has enabled the organisation to become one of the top performing Trusts in the country. It is one of the only trusts in England to have no long waiting patients (those waiting more than 52 weeks for planned surgery), is regularly in the top five for in the country for emergency department performance and has delivered the national cancer standard consistently for over four years.
Expansion Chief Executive for MTW, Miles Scott said: “Across our Trust, 98 per cent of patients need diagnostic tests and the sooner we can carry out these tests, the sooner we can start any treatment they may need. “Waiting for tests can also be a worrying time for people and if their results are clear we can let them know more quickly. The expansion of the centre enables us to offer thousands more tests in a convenient location for patients and it has been fantastic to show the Secretary of State around the newly expanded facility.”
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
MEDICS ON TV:
Tunbridge Wells Hospital staff appearing in the show (from left to right): Dr Alrafea, Dr James, Sister Sofia
Tunbridge Wells Hospital staff feature in Channel 5 documentary By Ben Cornwell LAST week Emergency department staff at Tunbridge Wells Hospital appeared on the new series of Channel 5’s documentary series, A&E After Dark. The programme, produced by Crackit Productions, airs every Thursday at 9pm on 5Star and gives an ‘uncensored picture’ of the night shift of A&E departments across the UK. As well as following the A&E department of Tunbridge Wells Hospital, the new series, narrated by Coronation Street actor Bill Fellows will also feature staff and patients from North Middlesex University Hospital in London and Rotherham General Hospital. Chief Operating Officer at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW), Sean Briggs, told the Times: “The Trust’s involvement in the
latest series of ‘A&E After Dark’ gives us the opportunity to highlight the skill and dedication of our teams working in one of the best-performing emergency departments in the country. “Colleagues work incredibly hard around the clock to support patients and this series provides a fascinating insight into the outstanding care they provide. I want to thank all the patients, their families and our staff who took part in the filming and shared their experiences.” Tunbridge Wells Hospital and staff are set to feature in multiple episodes of the new series which began airing on January 4. Series five of A&E After Dark continues Thursdays at 9pm on 5STAR or you can catch up on the new series on the My5 App
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Meet us at Notcutts Garden Centre, Pembury • Wednesday 10th January • Wednesday 17th January • Friday 19th January Experience the magic of quality day trips and holidays with Pennywood Tours, where personalized customer service is our top priority. Visit our stand in the restaurant and find out how you can enjoy your life to the full.
Take a look at some of the amazing range of locations we are going to in 2024 Holidays
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• Quality day trips and holidays • Group Leader to assist you • Super-deluxe coaches • Four star hotels • Must see destinations
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BUSINESS
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Local restaurant sets its sights on new Times Business Award By Ben Cornwell WITH the Times Business Awards happening on March 14 there are only three weeks left (until February 1) to nominate your business. However, for the first time ever, at this year’s awards, there are two new categories which are voted for by the general public – ‘Retailer of the Year’ and the ‘Food and Drink Hero’. The Pantiles’ modern Asian dining restaurant Kumquat has set its sights on the latter.
Special Kumquat’s owners Virginia and Alex Boyd told the Times: “We would love to be involved with the awards again this year. With the change in the awards we are trying to get people to vote for us in the ‘Food and Drink Hero’ category. “ Last year the restaurant won the Times Business Awards ‘Start-up Business of the Year’, which they described as a ‘special moment’ for them both. They added: “As a new business one of the most important things is to get as many people as possible to know about you. We felt that if we could get recognised with one of these local awards then we could increase the number of people who knew about us. “We were very grateful to be nominated finalists as that gave us our goal of being mentioned in the Times and on social media. We felt we were offering Tunbridge Wells something new which we wanted everyone to know about, so when we won, it was incredible. We really had no idea we would.” The couple, who have been running their restaurant on The Pantiles since April 2022, shared with the Times the best thing about having a business in Tunbridge Wells.
VIRGINIA AND ALEX BOYD “Our industry is all about people. Yes, we serve food and drink, but without people we are nothing, “ Virginia and Alex explained. “We have met so many lovely people in Tunbridge Wells, from members of our team to our customers. It is a pleasure to come to work every day and strive to be better, knowing that what we do is appreciated.” The seventh edition of the Times Business Awards will take place in the Victorian Theatre at Salomons Estate on Thursday March 14 and will be presented by professional dancer and Strictly Come Dancing legend Brendan Cole. Following a champagne reception and three-course dinner, finalists and guests will be welcomed by the star for the awards ceremony. To enter your business into the Times Business Awards or to nominate a local business for Retailer of the Year or Food and Drink Hero, visit timesbusinessawards.co.uk
Sofa retailer ScS opens new store in Tunbridge Wells A NEW sofa store, ScS, opened on Boxing Day at the Great Lodge Retail Park in Longfield Road, Tunbridge Wells. The sofa retailer was founded in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear in 1894, but now has stores across England, Wales and Scotland. Its latest store, which will house an extensive range of sofas, furniture, flooring and lighting, is the company’s 101st branch in the UK, although there are currently only two other stores in Kent in Dartford and Broadstairs. The new Tunbridge Wells store has created 10 jobs in the local area.
Design Sobria Gosai, the new store’s Manager, said: “We’re so excited to be able to bring the quality, design and value of ScS sofas and furniture to the people of Tunbridge Wells as well as to be
able to invest in the local area through the creation of jobs in the store.” Sales Director Dean Weston added: “The latest store opening in Tunbridge Wells is an exciting move for the business, as we aim to continue to grow our store portfolio.” Mr Weston said that despite the company investing in their ‘digital proposition’ they still see the value of ‘bricks and mortar showrooms’ which offer people the chance to test out products and get a feel for a sofa before they decide to commit to a big purchase. The two-floored, 17,000 sq ft store will be open seven days a week with the standard opening hours being Monday and Thursday, 10am to 8pm; Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am to 7pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm; and Sunday 11am to 5pm.
Law firm’s sustainability work is rewarded with B Corp certificate By Elena Percy
PARTY PEOPLE: Members of the RTWMG celebrate
Media professionals celebrate successes By Grace Corcoran ROYAL Tunbridge Wells Media Group (RTWMG) hosted its annual Christmas Party at Hotel du Vin, Tunbridge Wells, last month. Eighty professionals from the media industry, who live in and around Royal Tunbridge Wells, and many of whom work locally too, celebrated their 2023 achievements and networked with peers whilst enjoying a stunning three-course lunch and entertainment from the talented magician, and Edinburgh Fringe hit, Pete Heat. Andy Evans, Investor, Business Advisor and Founder of RTWMG, commented: “We are committed to cultivating a vibrant media
business community in and around Royal Tunbridge Wells, uniting like-minded individuals driven by a shared passion for the industry who are keen to help each other. “We are beyond delighted that our members now exceed 300 individuals, and this is growing month on month. “ The RTWMG mission is to foster a dynamic community of influential professionals within the media and marketing sector to facilitate new connections, opportunities, and valuable guidance. The group aims to empower members and give them support to excel in their careers. Anyone interested in joining this free group can find out more by visiting rtwmg.com
CRIPPS, a top 100 UK law firm based in Tunbridge Wells, has announced that it has achieved B Corp certification, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to making a positive and lasting difference for its clients, people, communities and the planet. B Corp certification is a global recognition achieved by businesses that meet rigorous standards of social, governance and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Companies achieving B Corp status must demonstrate their commitment to balancing purpose with profit, actively contributing to the improvement of society and the environment.
Inclusive As a B Corp in the legal industry, Cripps, which also has offices in London, is counted among businesses that are leading a global movement for an inclusive, equitable and sustainable economy. It joins a community of like-minded businesses that strive to make business a force for good. Senior Partner Mike Scott, said: “Both our people and our clients have told us how important it is to them that Cripps is a responsible, purpose-driven business which is continually challenging itself and improving year-on-year. This certification reflects our dedication to our stated purpose, which is to solve problems and champion ambitions to make a positive and lasting difference. This applies to everything we do, for our clients and our people as well as the communities in which we operate and the planet we inhabit.” James Beatton, Managing Partner, said:
JAMES BEATTON AND MIKE SCOTT “The firm chose to pursue B Corp certification because it provides a robust globally-recognised framework within which to operate. It requires us to consider the impact of our business decisions on our people, clients, suppliers, communities and the environment. It provides a ‘best practice’ benchmark and keeps us accountable to our promises, but is not the end goal. We have gone through an extensive assessment process over the last year and will continue to strive for progress in all aspects of our business.” Mike continued: “We are thrilled to achieve B Corp certification, as it underscores our commitment. It is not just a badge; it’s a reflection of our values, and it sets a high standard for our people. We believe that by pursuing purpose-driven goals, we can better serve our clients, support our people, and contribute to a more sustainable future.” For more information about Cripps and its B Corp certification, please visit cripps.co.uk
TRAVEL
Enjoying Life
Discover an Unforgettable Journey with Pennywood Tours: Breaking the Mould of Coach Travel
Are you looking for a safe way of enjoying trips but thought travelling by coach wasn’t for you? Perhaps this company will challenge your preconceptions; they did mine! Pennywood Tours is breaking the mould by offering a few simple things that many companies appear to have forgotten: customer care, telephone access and booking, paper brochures that can be posted directly to you, someone to speak to if you have questions and a leader on trips to ensure everything runs smoothly. Higher Quality Coach Travel Pennywood Tours is redefining stereotypes associated with coach travel by using modern, clean, very high specification vehicles with a lovely ride, wherever you sit. Although there is a loo on board, comfort breaks are roughly every 90 minutes to
two hours, to stretch your legs, get a hot drink and use the facilities. This will give you confidence to drink the free water on board to keep you fresh during the journey. By using good quality (normally 4*) hotels you should be at least as comfortable as at home, hopefully even more so. Most of the time there is a choice of board at hotels so you can control your budget and choice of diet. You can park your car for free at the pickup point, and they Like Travelling with Friends even tip the driver for you, so With Pennywood Tours, you you don’t even need to worry will find yourself amidst a set about this! of like-minded individuals, fostering a quiet sense of
Unhurried and Low Pressure Let go of hurried tourist clichés and relax into the blissful tempo of leisurely exploration with Pennywood Tours who give ample time and freedom to dive deeper into your chosen tour, to savour each moment and immerse into the beauty and culture of each destination without rush.
community and camaraderie and forming bonds over shared experiences. It’s never just travel; it’s a warm journey among friends. Live Your Life Now! Time flies by faster than expected so it’s important to live in the present and embrace the joy of travelling while you can. Most of us entertain – all
too often – the idea of doing things ‘sometime in the future’, and it would be a shame to reach a point where you can only say ‘I wish I’d done that’. So, as the heading suggests, we should live our lives now! Conclusion With a very large number of loyal followers and repeat travellers, Pennywood Tours seem to be doing lots of things right and they invite you on a journey that promises to be more than just a holiday or day out. Call Pennywood Tours on 01622 434 981 to choose your next grand adventure of unforgettable experiences.
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The Great Champagne Tour Spring in the Isles of Scilly Great Gardens of Central Ireland Corso & Colditz *These offers apply to new customers and can’t be used in conjuction with any other offer.
10
COMMUNITY
Local News
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The Sussex textile brand weaving its way to a fashionable future
FRIENDS IN TWEED: Sussex Tweed’s Jonathan Kelly and Deborah Barker of Fibreshed
By Grace Corcoran A LUXURY textile company is on a mission to ‘create space for British wool to be celebrated as a fashion fibre once again’. With fast fashion a problem today, slow fashion company Sussex Tweed is championing British textile manufacturing, bringing back the old processes with quality materials. Sussex Tweed has been part of the landscape of East Sussex for the past 10 years. Based in Withyham, it makes caps from handmade tweed and linen, and has helped to revive an interest in heritage textiles and how they are made. Run by Jonathan Kelly, Sussex Tweed makes tweed for the caps on an old Donegal handloom. “It’s a long process rooted in slow fashion,” said Jonathan. “But we love the textures of the cloth that hand weaving creates and the finish it brings to our existing products.” Sussex Tweed has been offered two heritage Hattersley looms, which will enable the company to increase its output, while maintaining its handwoven ethos. The Hattersleys are currently in the Outer Hebrides, where they were once commonly used. “These workhorses were small enough to have at home, but powerful enough to weave thousands of yards of cloth for crofters coming home after the war, giving them a muchneeded income,” Jonathan explained.
Harris Tweed is now mostly woven on modern doublewidth looms, and these beautiful little Hattersleys are redundant and rusting in sheds around the islands. “We’ve been offered these two which will really help to further expand our weaving enterprise, but we need to get them home and recommissioned,” Jonathan added.
Important To do this, Sussex Tweed has begun a GoFundMe campaign to raise the money needed to rescue these historically important machines. “Weaving is a dying art. England was built on its wool trade, yet most of that story is forgotten in the haze of fast fashion. “We want to create space for British wool to be celebrated as a fashion fibre once again. To do that we have to use it, and it’s our intention to work with farmers local to us, and produce cloth on these machines from the wool that’s been raised on the ground we all share. “It’s a small part of what could be done, but the more we get people talking about British wool and the cloth that will come from it, the more chance we have of giving wool its value back, preserving jobs in the textile industry and creating new interest in British textile manufacturing again.” To donate to Sussex Tweed’s GoFundMe, visit gofund.me/15168fca
Two local charities receive Gatwick Foundation grants By Elena Percy TWO Tunbridge Wells charities have received funding from the London Gatwick Foundation Fund (LGFF). The crowdfunding charity, Tree of Hope, which helps children and young people with a disability or illness and St George’s Community Children’s Project, experts in childcare for more than 30 years, were both given £3,000 from the LGFF. At Tree of Hope, the money will be used to pay for core running costs, which will make a big difference to children like Arthur (pictured), who was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at just five months old.
The Quiet Quitting phenomenon: How can employers stop it? Widely associated with employee burnout, the idea of ‘quiet quitting’ – where employees become disengaged from work and do the bare minimum of their duties is continuing to rise in the UK. The latest 2023 report from The Inclusion Initiative at London School of Economics, which drew over four million datapoints to map the actual hours worked in the UK labour market, became the first study to showcase evidence of the ‘quiet quitting’ phenomenon in Britain. The report found that given the 24.5 million UK full-time, full-year workers, ‘quiet quitting’ equates to an estimated 55.1 million discretionary hours lost to the UK labour market each year between 2020 and 2022, 48 per cent of which are accounted for by Millennials. The study estimates that this behaviour costs the UK economy about £21 billion per year in lost productivity and reduced innovation. Ben Holt, Managing Director of Loch HR, a division of multi-service law and HR business Loch Associates Group, highlights what can be done to avoid ‘quiet quitting’ and overcome recruitment challenges. “Quiet quitting is a pressing issue that businesses cannot afford to ignore and is likely to increase in 2024. By understanding the root causes and implementing strategies to foster engagement, companies can create a thriving work environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and committed. Offering more flexible working Many employers already offer flexible working. New flexible working legislation is due to be introduced in April 2024. This will change the existing rights to request flexible working and will widen the scope of who can apply. This will be done by creating a day-one right to request flexible working and by changing requirements to make it easier to make these requests. Being an employer who does not offer flexibility from the outset is likely to be seen more negatively moving forward. Career planning and development A career development plan can be one of the most important ways to attract and retain staff. Training staff supports career progression, makes employees feel valued, develops new skills and encourages collaboration. Regular one-to-one sessions and regular reviews of goals can help managers to work effectively with their team to address weak points and identify valuable training for the development of staff. Employee benefits Reviewing the benefits you provide to staff is a worthwhile exercise, but understanding what motivates your team is also important. This can be achieved by carrying out staff surveys. Other ways in which you can be more attractive as an employer include extending types of leave which will help retain staff without a significant increase to costs. An Employee Assistance Programme is another inexpensive way to provide vital wellbeing support. Other ways to incentivise staff Bonus schemes and other financial incentives can be costly but are effective recruitment and retention tools. There are also other cheaper options to incentivise staff including discounts at gyms, team lunches and more. Implementing these options creates a positive work environment which can help retain staff and attract new talent.
Eligible He was the first baby in the UK to have the most expensive drug in the world, Zolgensma, a gene therapy for SMA designed to replace the missing gene which causes babies to lose the use of their muscles. Arthur is now two and will not be classed as disabled until he is three years old, which means currently he isn’t eligible for an accessible car. As a result, his family cannot take any of his equipment with them to visit family, on outings, or on holiday, so the family are hoping to buy an accessible car too. Emma Bourne, Head of Fundraising, Trusts and Foundations at Tree of Hope said: “This grant will help us to provide information, advice, emotional support and fundraising expertise to families in Kent over the coming months. We are thrilled to have a new supporter, it will make such a difference to children like Arthur.”
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
HOPEFUL: Tree Of Hope’s grant will help children like Arthur At St George’s, on Chilstone Road, the money will be put towards its Assisted Childcare Places Scheme, which supports families in crisis by offering free or highly subsidised childcare. St George’s Childcare Fundraiser, Jo Bailey said: “The scheme is funded entirely by grants, donations and grassroots fundraising events and the very generous donation by the London Gatwick Foundation Fund will ensure we can continue to offer financial assistance to families in crisis this year.” To find out more visit the Kent Community Foundation, London Gatwick please visit kentcf.org.uk
Finally – don’t forget to simply say ‘thanks’ The cheapest method to show appreciation is saying thank you and giving praise. Feeling valued is one of the most significant ways to improve staff retention and enhance prospects of recruiting the best people.”
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COMMUNITY
Local News
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Dancers pirouette their way to Prague
RELIEF: Nourish Operations Director Dawn Stanford and RRT Tunbridge Wells’ James Woodford
CZECH THIS: Firefly Dance Group will be flying the flag for England next year
By Elena Percy A LOCAL dance school will go to Prague next year to represent England at the Dance World Cup. Firefly Dance School, which is based in Tunbridge Wells, has been selected to represent Team England in the Dance World Cup, taking place this summer in Prague. The talented youngsters aged from 5 to 17, will compete against dance schools from across the globe in 15 dances, in the categories of song and dance, national folklore and lyrical.
Competitions The Dance World Cup is the largest all-genre international competition in the world, with 120,000 competitors from 65 countries participating. There were over 5,000 entries into the qualifiers, and Firefly Dance School beat stiff competition to be named in the Team England squad. Carla Nicholson-Fuller, Principal of Firefly Dance School said: “I am so excited and proud to take my team to the World Cup this year. This is
the first time we’ve ever entered, so to qualify for 15 dances was an absolute dream come true. “Firefly Dance School and its students mean everything to me. We are a small dance school that caters to local families, so this opportunity means the world to us. “The calibre of dance schools that enter is extremely high, so to be selected for Team England is a huge honour and testament to the hard work the girls have put into their rehearsals to date. We can’t wait to dance on the world stage in Prague this summer.” Fuller opened Firefly Dance School in 2012. It now has 200 students, with dancers of all ages and five teachers. As well as rehearsing hard over the next few months, the dance school needs to raise funds to help send the dancers who will be competing in the Dance World Cup. The group has arranged numerous fundraising activities but is also open to discussing specific sponsorship opportunities. For anyone wishing to lend their support, the dance school has set up a GoFundMe page for donations at gofund.me/c3811c5f
Rapid Relief Team delivers over 250 meals to families in need By Ben Cornwell WITH one in seven people in the UK going hungry because they can’t afford food costs, the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) has recently been delivering food boxes to help support families across the country, including in Tunbridge Wells. The charity, established in 2013 by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, offers catering assistance and support to charities and emergency services across the UK and large parts of the world. The RRT partnered with Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Services (DAVSS), Nourish Community Foodbank and Kent Community Wardens to identify and reach vulnerable families in Tunbridge Wells to help lift spirits. The RRT delivered 21 food boxes to families in Tunbridge Wells, equivalent to 252 meals. James Woodford, RRT Tunbridge Wells Team Leader, said: “We’ve been privileged to speak to the amazing volunteers from our local food bank and domestic abuse organisation, as well as community wardens, and it is very clear that
there is a lot of hidden need in our communities with many parents struggling to feed their families properly. “We know that some people might be hesitant to reach out for help or visit a food bank, which means we don’t know the full scale of the challenge. “However, we can help make the essentials as accessible as possible, even with small details like including a simple menu and recipe in our food boxes to make life easier for the cook.” The Food Boxes, delivered last month, by the RRT Tunbridge Wells team were curated by the charity’s volunteers . The boxes contained a wide selection of non-perishable goods, such as pasta, rice and cereal bars, alongside special treats including pudding, custard and candy canes. Nourish Operations Director, Dawn Stanford told the Times: “The boxes of donations from the rapid relief team were very welcome and complimented the parcels supplied by Nourish for Christmas. “We appreciate the support greatly at a time when our food stocks are so low.”
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Former Post Office boss to return CBE after scandal the honour. More than 700 Post Office branch managers were convicted after faulty Fujitsu accounting software Horizon made it look like money was missing from their shops. A public inquiry into the scandal is ongoing. In a statement, Ms Vennells said: “I continue to support and focus on co-operating with the Inquiry and expect to be giving evidence in the coming months. “I have so far maintained my silence as I considered it inappropriate to comment publicly while the Inquiry remains ongoing and before I have provided my oral evidence.
Inquiry
FORMER Post Office boss Paula Vennells is to hand back her CBE following the fallout of the Horizon IT scandal which led to the wrongful prosecution of hundreds of subpostmasters. The former chief executive, who ran the Post Office while it routinely denied there was a problem with its Horizon IT system, was appointed a CBE in December 2018. It comes after demands for her to return the honour intensified after an ITV drama brought the widespread miscarriage of justice back into the spotlight. More than 1.2 million people have signed a petition calling for her to be stripped of
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“I am, however, aware of the calls from subpostmasters and others to return my CBE. “I have listened and I confirm that I return my CBE with immediate effect. “I am truly sorry for the devastation caused to the sub-postmasters and their families, whose lives were torn apart by being wrongly accused and wrongly prosecuted as a result of the Horizon system. “I now intend to continue to focus on assisting the Inquiry and will not make any further public comment until it has concluded.” Ms Vennells was chief executive of the company from 2012 to 2019. Earlier this week Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he wanted to speed up the compensation process for victims of the scandal. It is understood Justice Secretary Alex Chalk met Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake on Monday January 8 to discuss how to help the convicted branch managers clear their names.
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Photo: Tobit Curteis Associates LLP/ PA Wire
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Rare medieval wall paintings found at Cambridge University RARE medieval wall paintings that had been hidden for almost 300 years have been uncovered by builders working in a roof space at Cambridge University. The artwork, which celebrated the royal patron of Christ’s College during the early 16th century, was discovered in the oldest part of the building during restoration work. The three crowned motifs, depicting a red Lancastrian rose, portcullis and a probable fleur-de-lis, were found in First Court, with the building dating back to the 15th century and the paintings likely dating back to the early 16th century. The college was first established as God’s House in 1437 before moving to its present site in 1448. It was re-founded as Christ’s College in 1505 by Henry VII’s mother, Lady Margaret Beaufort. The portcullis was the Beaufort family badge. Cambridge University art historian Dr Christina Faraday, who specialises in Tudor visual and material culture, said: “This is a really exciting and unusual discovery, revealing the ways that
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the College celebrated and advertised its royal patron during the early years of the 16th century, following its re-founding. “A powerful and pious woman, with a keen interest in scholarship, Lady Margaret left her indelible mark on the College, and the wall paintings are an early example of her family’s savvy use of visual ‘branding’ even beyond the royal court.
Discovery “Henry VII had a very weak claim to the throne but became adept at using visual symbols like this to promote his kingship. “The motifs continue to be tied up with the College’s identity to this day, but as an early example of Tudor ‘marketing’, the wall paintings demonstrate the long history of something we think of as a modern phenomenon.” The 20ft (6m) wide design – partially obscured by a wooden joist – is located in the roof space of what probably formed the northwest wall of the original Library.
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
NEWS IN BRIEF
Sinead O’Connor’s cause of death announced SINEAD O’CONNOR died from natural causes, a coroner has said. The Dublin-born singer was found unresponsive by police at her south east London home on July 26, 2023, and pronounced dead at the scene.
Epstein victim repeats sex tapes claim A VICTIM of Jeffrey Epstein who claimed the paedophile financier made sex tapes of the Duke of York, Bill Clinton and Sir Richard Branson has repeated her allegation that ‘there are videos that exist’. Sarah Ransome told ITV’s Good Morning Britain she is sure the people who know the alleged tapes exist ‘are very frightened of them being released’. On behalf of Sir Richard, a Virgin Group spokeswoman said: “In a New Yorker report published in 2019, Ransome admitted that she had ‘invented’ the tapes.”
Queen’s ‘fake footman’ sentenced A 26-year-old man who claimed to be the Queen’s footman has been sentenced for defrauding buyers on eBay who bid for a walking stick he falsely claimed was used by the late monarch ‘as she struggled with her mobility’. Dru Marshall, from Romsey, Hampshire, listed the ‘antler walking stick’ on the online auction site having claimed to be a senior footman at Windsor Castle.
National News
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NEWS
15
Gabriel Attal, 34, becomes France’s youngest prime minister GABRIEL ATTAL has been named as France’s youngest prime minister, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks a fresh start for the rest of his term amid growing political pressure from the far right. Mr Macron’s office announced the appointment yesterday (January 9) in a statement. Mr Attal, 34, rose to prominence as the government spokesman and education minister. He is France’s first openly gay prime minister. His predecessor Elisabeth Borne resigned on Monday (January 8) following recent political turmoil over an immigration law that strengthens the government’s ability to deport foreigners. Mr Macron, a 46-year-old centrist whose term ends in 2027, is to name a government in the coming days. France’s youngest president when he came to Picture: Lestyn Lewis/Bath Rugby Foundation/PA Wire
power in 2017 is to work with Mr Attal to name the new government, though some key ministers are expected to continue in their posts. During the handover ceremony, Mr Attal said: “I could read and hear it: the youngest president of the Republic in history appoints the youngest prime minister in history.
Symbol “I want to see it only as the symbol of boldness and movement. It is also, and perhaps above all, a symbol of confidence in young people.” He said his goals include making security an ‘absolute priority’ and promoting values of ‘authority and respect of others’. He also vowed to strengthen public services including schools and
the health system and push for ‘better controlling immigration’. The president has shifted rightward on security and migration issues since rising to power on a pro-business centrist platform in 2017, notably as far-right rival Marine Le Pen and her antiimmigration, anti-Islam National Rally have gained political influence. Mr Attal, a former member of the Socialist Party, joined Mr Macron’s newly created political movement in 2016 and was government spokesperson from 2020 to 2022, a job that made him well-known to the French public. He was then named budget minister before being appointed in July as education minister, one of the most prestigious positions in the French government.
Former rugby player’s charity skydive EX-BATH Rugby player, Iestyn Lewis, tumbled through the air just below Mount Everest in the Himalayas at 180mph in minus 30C temperatures to raise funds for Bath Rugby Foundation, a charity supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Somerset.
Exhilarating Mr Lewis described the experience as ‘the most frightening but exhilarating moment of my life’ after completing the skydive in November last year. “Fear took over as I was 24,000ft up, but I knew there was only one way down,” he said. He aims to raise £29,031 – the height of Mount Everest in feet – and has so far raised more than £24,000 for a charity which he described as being ‘close to my heart’.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Licensing Act 2003 -
Application for the grant of a Premises Licence An application for a Premises Licence at Angel Food And Wine, Langton Road, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 0HL has been made by Mr Sabeskaran Shandirasekaran A summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: Sale of alcohol (OFF SALES) and trading hours: Everyday - 06:00 to 23:00 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 31st January 2024 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 Unlimited.
16
COMMENT
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Mike Martin Liberal Democrats
Mike Martin is the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary candidate for the Tunbridge Wells Constituency
Only the Lib Dems can deliver real change THIS year is an important one for politics. As I’m sure everyone already knows, the general election is expected to take place later this year. And the most common thing that voters tell us in Tunbridge Wells is that they want a change in that election. They are fed up with Conservative incompetence, Conservative infighting, and having politicians who are seemingly incapable of being honest and straightforward. They want change.
‘In Tunbridge Wells, change means voting for a Liberal Democrat MP. We are the only party that can beat the Conservatives here’ Tunbridge Wells has been a Conservative seat for a long time. Indeed it is almost synonymous with small ‘C’ conservatism. But no more: Tunbridge Wells is different now. Many young families have moved here over recent years, changing the demography of the constituency. Indeed, I am part of that influx, though my wife has deep roots in Tunbridge Wells, having grown up here. And as the constituency has become
more liberal, the Conservative Party has gone in the opposite direction and seems to be trapped by the right-wing ideologues in their ranks (Liz Truss, anyone?). In Tunbridge Wells, change means voting for a Liberal Democrat MP. We are the only party that can beat the Conservatives here. Indeed, we are the only party that is intent on winning here. Labour simply cannot win, and haven’t even bothered to select a candidate yet. And we are offering voters a fresh start. The Liberal
Democrats stand for a fair deal for everyone – an innovative economy that promotes opportunity for all, proper access to good health and care services and more houses being built with a particular focus on affordable housing. And I am focused on tackling local issues, from the failure of our local water companies to fixing the town centre. Yet, whenever the general election falls, in May we also have the biggest local elections in Tunbridge Wells for decades. The number of
local Borough Councillors is being reduced from 48 to 39 and all 39 Councillors must be elected afresh to represent new wards following a set of boundary reforms. This means the vast majority of residents will get three votes in the local elections in May – with which to choose three new Councillors to represent their local area. For the last two years, the Lib Dems have run the Council in partnership with other parties. There have been some notable successes. Work will be starting soon on the old cinema site, and the appalling deficit left by the previous Conservative administration has been diligently reduced. And thanks to this prudent financial management, the Council was able to buy back the lease for Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, meaning that we now control our own destiny, and are able to start rejuvenating and shaping our town the way we would like. But working in partnership with other parties is sometimes difficult, and always slower. And so very soon we will be unveiling an exciting set of ideas for how we want to develop the Borough of Tunbridge Wells, and asking residents to vote for a Lib Dem majority administration – much like we are asking you to elect a Liberal Democrat MP. The voters of Tunbridge Wells want change. My team and I want to deliver it for you.
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
LETTERS
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And another thing…
Dear Editor...
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 of Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG
Let’s call time on pub closures
I was pleased to read in last week’s paper that Shepherd Neame state they are recruiting a new licensee for The Bull in Frant Road. Not pleased that the current tenant is calling it a day but pleased that Sheps are intending to keep the pub open. I say this because already, one week into 2024, two Sheps pubs in Kent have closed – The Aviator in Sheppey and The George in Newnham. The Localism Act of 2012 gave new rights and powers to communities and in December a group of regulars from The Bull submitted an application to TWBC to list the premises as an Asset of Community Value. Navigating the Council’s website to do this is not easy as the process later became known as a ‘Community Right to Bid’. This makes it sound as though we know better about how to
A different approach to climate issues
I was interested to read John Hurst’s climate article in your paper. Without getting into how far the climate is changing and how far this is caused by the 0.04% of the atmosphere which is CO2; I would like to correct certain inaccuracies. The new coal mine in Cumbria will reduce imports of coal from, for example, Kazakhstan, hence reducing the UK’s CO2 footprint as the transportation of coal emits more CO2 than mining coal here. The same comment applies to
run a pub and want to buy it! In reality, we want to publicly demonstrate that The Bull is valued for furthering the social wellbeing and social interests of the community. We hope this will not only convince Sheps to keep the pub open but also reassure any future landlords of local community support. Among the assets already listed on the Council’s website, along with other pubs and village shops, is the Showfields Hall in Broadwater. I will be watching with interest to see what happens to that building now the No1 Community Trust has apparently closed.
Penny Kift Member of CAMRA and resident of Broadwater the Rosebank oilfield which will help the UK reduce its dependence on imported (and hence higher carbon-emitting) oil. Replacing i.e. scrapping gas boilers and replacing them with electric heat pumps will require the manufacture and installation (and probably import) of said heat pumps thus emitting CO2 in the process of replacing serviceable gas boilers with further life in them as well as causing people who would have replaced their old boilers with new more efficient ones to hang onto their older more polluting models.
CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)
PEPPY SAYS...
Similarly those of us who have no intention of buying an electric car will hang onto ageing diesel and petrol models rather than replacing them with newer more efficient versions. I assume John Hurst is in favour of events such as the COP summits; how many private jets does he think are involved in these events? There is also the assumption that if we impoverish ourselves through the policies which he advocates, that global temperatures will start falling to give White Christmases! Actually global temperatures have been on an upward trend since the ‘mini-ice age’ of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, this process starting well before widespread industrialisation which has, of course, given the world the very technology he both derides and espouses! I would suggest that next year John Hurst asks Father Christmas for a modicum of rationality and sense.
Keith Brown Crowborough
Traffic and parking key to town’s future
Finally, some good news for Tunbridge Wells. It was good to hear that Tunbridge Wells had a successful festive period and businesses getting a good bounce in trade. The key proved to be the suspension of parking charges on the Sundays before Christmas. If we are to encourage more shoppers, visitors and families throughout the year then suspending all car parking charges at weekends would prove beneficial. This way the everdiminishing outlets will hopefully continue to secure more trade, which in turn benefits the Council’s coffers? The knock-on would be to see more outlets opening, especially in the Victoria Centre and aiding in its regeneration. Something the Council also needs to seriously consider is to abolish the pernicious ‘Bus Gate’, which is simply a cash cow to catch unsuspecting motorists. Many visitors are confused by the signage and would then not wish to return. The idea that it aids pedestrians is pure bunkum, as the hordes that they believe need it never materialised. More trade means more rentals and taxes for the Council, rather than simply penalising honest shoppers, drivers and those using the many eateries. Perhaps a new leaf for a new year?
John Pearce Tunbridge Wells
St John’s deserves to be in the BID
Many thanks to Frances Robinson for championing the thriving local businesses in St John’s. Alongside the usual suspects (Sainsbury’s and Tesco) there are a fantastic range of local shops, cafes, pubs and coming soon – a crazy golf-themed bar in the old Pizza Hut. And all within a short stroll for thousands of local residents – one might even go as far as to call it a 15-minute city! I will follow up on the question of expanding the BID with my colleagues on the Council.
Peter Lidstone Lib Dem Councillor for St John’s BID focus is on the town centre
Thank you Frances Robinson for your kind comments regarding what RTW Together works hard to do, and we appreciate the suggestion for considering to cover St John’s. As an up-andcoming area with a wide range of businesses, it has been mentioned and we have considered the idea a number of times. However, BIDs are usually made up of 300-700
17
Calverley
Observations on life and more important things
FAREWELL DEAR READER … It’s a new year and a time that always reignites thoughts about the future and where one’s life is heading. And Calverley is no exception. Which is why he’s decided the moment has come for him to put away his quill and spend more time tending that vineyard. Something close to his heart, if not his liver. After more than six years and some 300 of these columns making mischief, it has not been an easy decision. But what a journey it has been. From tweaking the tail of political parties to pricking egos and offering observations on everyday life that hopefully raised a few chuckles and smiles. Many are the memories he will take away. Like the time, as part of his day job, the anonymous columnist attended a civic lunch where the wine and gossip flowed freely. Indeed, it reaches the point where one guest cast an eye around the table and warned: “We’d better be careful or we’ll all end up in Calverley.” And they did! Much time was later spent trying to identify the culprit. Hiding the grin was difficult. The words ‘honoured’ and ‘privileged’ are often heard from those stepping back from a role. Some might view them as a bit hackneyed. Calverley though is sincere when he says it has genuinely been ‘an honour and great privilege’ and a ‘lot of fun’ to share his comments and thoughts with readers over the years and to receive, through social media and this letters page, so much feedback. Some of it was even positive. In fact, most of it has been. For which he thanks you. For the final time then: Chin, chin dear reader… it has been a joy. PS: Special thanks go to Calverley’s colleagues at the Times who suffered the ‘slings and arrows’ in declining to reveal his identity while defending his right to ‘freedom of speech’. You can all relax now! members, and with around 650 members we are already on the larger size, and as a relatively new BID are wary to over-extend ourselves. Therefore, to give our existing members the strongest impact possible, we have decided for now to retain our focus on the core town centre area with the BID area ending by the top of Mount Ephraim/Grosvenor Road. That said, we are committed to listening to the wider business audience, and if there is a desire from a significant number of businesses, we may introduce a voluntary membership scheme and/ or partnership options which would provide specific benefits.
Alex Green RTW Together CEO
Letters printed on these pages do not reflect the views of the Times of Tunbridge Wells. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter if too long.
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Local News
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
EDUCATION
Mayfield student’s winning ‘brownprint’ creates a serious ‘blueprint’ to secure our ecological future
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A sixth former at Mayfield School is celebrating winning a prestigious international geography award. Jack Thornton discovers what made the judges choose her informed and cleverly-designed plan which addresses the complex geographical problems we increasingly face… ANNABEL, a Sixth Former at Mayfield School for Girls, has won the Royal Geographical Society’s Young Geographer of the Year competition for her age group. The prestigious international award encourages young people to think creatively and analytically about geographical themes. The annual competition, held by the Royal Geographical Society in partnership with Geographical magazine, has now been running for over twenty years and this year around
‘I’m thrilled to be honoured with this award. The regeneration of peatlands is something I’m truly passionate about, so having my efforts acknowledged means a lot’ 35,000 young people took part. The theme for 2023 was ‘A blueprint for the future’, with entrants being invited to share innovative ideas to address problems in areas such as food production and supply, energy and sustainability, resources, population growth, travel, biodiversity and more. Professor Joe Smith, Director of the Royal
Geographical Society (with IBG) said: “As a global community we are facing many complex geographical problems now which will become increasingly critical in the future. “The ‘blueprints’ submitted give me hope that the next generation of geographers is well equipped with the skills and understanding to drive forward the changes needed to ensure a sustainable future.” Entrants in the competition were separated into four age categories: KS2 (Years 7-11), KS3 (11-14), KS4 (14-16) and KS5(16-18). Pupils in the first three categories were required to submit an A3-size poster, which could be hand-drawn or produced digitally, while Key Stage 5 students (aged 16-18) had to submit an Esri StoryMap or write an essay, of no more than 1,500 words. Annabel’s winning entry in the Key Stage 5 category proposed a ‘brownprint’ rather than a blueprint – a plan that involved preserving and regenerating peatlands as a way of solving some of our global challenges. The competition judges were impressed by the proposal and said: “Linking to agriculture, carbon storage, hazard reduction and water quality, Annabel demonstrated a deep knowledge of the complex way in which these geographical issues are interlinked – great work Annabel.”
AWARD WINNING: Annabel is given her award by TV and radio presenter Tom Heap
Reflecting on her win Annabel commented: “I’m thrilled to be honoured with this award. The regeneration of peatlands is something I’m truly passionate about, so having my efforts acknowledged means a lot. “I am enjoying diving deeper into Geography at A-level and want to pursue it further at
university. I’m looking forward to the exciting journey ahead!” The 2023 winning pupils were awarded their certificates by television and radio presenter, Tom Heap, at a ceremony held at the Royal Geographical Society, near Kensington Gardens in London last month.
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Wednesday January 10 | 2024
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Modest price boost for 2023 housing market
Vicky Shaw reviews last year’s housing market, which reported better than expected results. Additional reporting by Ben Cornwell although, as with recent years, forecast uncertainty remains high given the current economic climate.” While some parts of the UK recorded house price rises last year, others saw property values fall. Properties in the South East of England saw the greatest fall in the UK, with values dropping by 4.5 per cent to £376,804. In the lead-up to Christmas, the mortgage price battle stepped up a gear and this has continued to follow through into the New Year and start of 2024. Although, mortgage rates haven’t only been falling in recent weeks. Average rates across two-year and five-year fixed mortgages have dropped for a fifth consecutive month, according to Moneyfacts data. Mortgage rates are now at the lowest levels in over six months. Since August, average two-year fixes
Pic: Steve Parsons/PA Wire
THE housing market ‘beat expectations’ in 2023, with the average UK property value ending the year £4,800 higher than it had been at the end of 2022, according to an index. Property values increased by 1.7 per cent on average across 2023, Halifax said. Average house prices rose by 1.1 per cent month-on-month in December, the third monthly rise in a row. The typical UK house price in December 2023 was £287,105, up from £282,305 in the same month a year earlier. Kim Kinnaird, Director, Halifax Mortgages, said: “In December, the cost of an average UK home rose for the third month in a row to £287,105, up 1.1 per cent or £3,066, compared to November, reaching the highest level since March 2023.
“The housing market beat expectations in 2023 and grew by 1.7 per cent on an annual basis. The average property price is now £4,800 higher than it was in December 2022. “Whilst it’s encouraging that we saw growth in the last three months of the year, this was preceded with property price falls for six consecutive months between April and September. The growth we have seen is likely being driven by a shortage of properties on the market, rather than the strength of buyer demand.
Growth “That said, with mortgage rates continuing to ease, we may see an increase in confidence from buyers over the coming months.” She continued: “As we move through 2024, the UK property market will continue to reflect the wider economic uncertainty and buyers and sellers are likely to be naturally cautious when considering making a move. “While wage growth is now above inflation, helping to ease cost-of-living pressures for some and improving housing affordability, interest rates are likely to remain elevated for as long as inflation remains markedly above the Bank of England’s target. “Our latest forecast suggests house prices could fall between 2 per cent and 4 per cent during the coming year,
have fallen from 6.86 per cent to 5.81 per cent while the average five-year fixed rate has dropped from 6.37 per cent to 5.42 per cent. Many lenders have been chopping fixed mortgage rates in the new year with the expectation of the Bank of England cutting base rate. In recent months, forecasts for where the base rate would eventually peak have fallen from a high of 6.5 per cent to 5.25 per cent. While the Bank of England has held the base rate at 5.25 per cent on three consecutive occasions since September, markets are increasingly confident it will be cut this year. Financial market expectations see the Bank of England cutting rates six times in 2024, taking them from a 15-year high of 5.25 per cent today to 3.75 per cent by Christmas. Some analysts are urging caution on these forecasts, however, suggesting market expectations have run ahead of themselves. Mark Harris, Chief Executive of mortgage broker SPF Private Clients, said: “Increased competitiveness among lenders leads to lower mortgage rates and we find ourselves in the midst of a price war. “With HSBC launching the headlinegrabbing 3.94 per cent five-year fix and reductions from Halifax, NatWest, TSB and other lenders, the gloves really are off.” Riz Malik, Founder at Southend-on-
Sea-based broker, R3 Mortgages told website Newspage: “In the coming weeks, we should gain clarity on the borrowing environment for 2024 as lenders rush to adjust rates in response to economic conditions. Although it may take some time, optimism is expected to rebound sharply among potential movers.” Nicky Stevenson, Managing Director at estate agent group Fine & Country said: “If mortgage lenders continue to bring down rates while they compete for business, then greater numbers of first-time buyers could soon be back on the march, helping to re-invigorate that portion of the market too.” Nathan Emerson, Chief Executive at property professionals’ body Propertymark said: “We would now hope that the Bank of England gradually starts slashing interest rates in order to further stimulate growth in the housing market.” Alice Haine, Personal Finance Analyst at Bestinvest, said: “While confidence is returning to the UK’s property market, it is still very early days. “Borrowing costs remain far higher than they were before the Bank of England began hiking interest rates at the end of 2021, so there is still a risk of mortgage arrears rising from here.” Matt Thompson, Head of Sales at London-based estate agent Chestertons, said: “December tends to be a quieter time of year in terms of property transactions but, last month, buyers have been more motivated to continue their search. Pent-up demand caused by last year’s economic uncertainty has been a key reason for this spike in buyer activity and indicates that 2024 will see a rather active property market.”
AVERAGE 2023 HOUSE PRICES ACROSS THE UK Average house prices across the UK and annual changes in December 2023, according to Halifax. Regional annual change figures are based on the most recent three months of approved mortgage transaction data:
Local News
PROPERTY
21
AN OVERALL POSITIVE OUTLOOK FOR THE PROPERTY MARKET IN 2024
The outlook for the 2024 property market is looking more positive. Deborah Richards, Managing Partner of Maddisons Residential, reviews recent buyer and homeowner trends in the context of wider economic shifts to give her perspective on what we can expect in the next 12 months. Despite media predictions of high mortgage repossessions and crashing prices, the property market proved incredibly resilient over 2023. On a 12-month basis, prices were down just 1.1% nationally according to Zoopla House Price Index, and 2.4% here in the south east, where more escalating prices had been the norm over the pandemic. This is mainly because, despite low interest rates prevailing from 2008 until the end of 2021, the banks have been stress-testing affordability since 2014, ensuring that even if rates reached 8%, homeowners could afford their commitment. First time buyers have been the most dominant buyer group, seeking to leave the private rental sector as average rents continue to rise faster than average mortgage repayments. Most baby boomers and millennials consider property as part-home and part-investment vehicle – the gift that kept on giving. But the property market looks very different when viewed through the eyes of twenty-year-olds. For them, the last decade has been challenging, often priced out of home ownership and suffering increasingly high rents. They are not looking for investment opportunities, but simply somewhere to lay their heads. ‘Out of the mouths of babes’ – Generation Z reminds us that first and foremost a home is to live in. Nor should we forget the role the older generation is playing in this residential resurgence. Baby Boomers might not be moving much themselves currently, but in 2023 the Bank of Mum and Dad and the wider Bank of Family invested over £8 billion in property; that’s not personal investment, but an investment in the futures of their children and grandchildren. The outlook is overall more positive: inflation and mortgage rates are reducing, and the sentiments above mean that – even with an approaching General Election, in which the property market will hold its breath once again – I predict prices will at worst reduce by 1% to 2%, and property sale transactions will reach a very normal and typical one million across the year.
East Midlands, £234,578, -2.6 per cent Eastern England, £325,634, -3.5 per cent London, £528,798, -2.3 per cent North East, £168,274, -0.9 per cent North West, £226,765, +0.3 per cent Northern Ireland, £192,153, +4.1 per cent Scotland, £205,170, +2.6 per cent South East, £376,804, -4.5 per cent South West, £293,067, -3.9 per cent
Meet the expert: Deborah Richards is the founder and Managing Partner of Maddisons Residential, a leading, award-winning independent Sales and Lettings estate agent based in Tunbridge Wells, offering expert advice and exceptional customer service.
www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk
Wales, £216,730, -0.5 per cent
18 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN
West Midlands, £247,122, -1.4%
Telephone: 01892 514100
Yorkshire and the Humber, £204,904, +0.1%
Email: info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk
22
Arts
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Trinity celebrates the life and work of David Bowie with this new exhibition…
From today, January 10, until Saturday January 21, Trinity Theatre will host a new exhibition celebrating the work and influences of the late David Bowie. Entitled Bowie: Inner Circle it will feature the work of local artist Guy Portelli and also that of painter Chris Myers who both celebrate the legacy and cultural impact of this iconic musician in their respective sculptures and paintings. Eileen Leahy finds out more… DID you know that David Bowie’s parents met here in Tunbridge Wells? According to local historians the musician’s mum and dad went on a date to the now defunct Ritz Cinema – which was located just a stone’s throw from Trinity Theatre in the 1940s – and the rest, as they say, is history. And now Trinity is showcasing a special exhibition in honour of the late great musician whose hits include Life on Mars, Fashion and Let’s Dance and enjoyed success in every decade until his death in 2016. Entitled Starman: Inner Space it features the work of local artist Guy Portelli and painter Chris Myers. The exhibition coincides with the anniversary of Bowie’s birth, January 8 and his death, January 10 and includes paintings and sculptures centred around the music and artists that inspired Bowie, from Jimi Hendrix and Elton John to Bob Dylan. “Central to the show is Guy Portelli’s sculpture, Starman: Inner Space,” explains a Trinity spokesperson. “It features 76 handprints of people who worked with David Bowie. These include those of legendary musicians Brian Eno, Robert Fripp, Goldie, Nile Rodgers and even John Lennon.” The piece was originally created as part of The Forum’s 30th anniversary last year. The team at the iconic music venue on The Common commissioned Guy to make a special sculpture in order to mark the extraordinary life and exceptional artistry of David Bowie. The mosaic masterpiece was unveiled the day
before the venue’s annual tribute concert on January 6 and sat in situ at The Forum until March 2023.
Crossover Since then it has toured a number of different museums, galleries and venues so Bowie fans around the globe could see it up close. Commenting on the event last year Guy, a Tonbridge-based artist, who found fame on the BBC1’s Dragons Den in 2008, told the Times that his work tended to be centred around ‘the crossover between art and music’. In addition to his Bowie sculpture, Guy will be exhibiting other music-related pieces including works inspired by Jimi Hendrix and Prince. He explained that his Starman sculpture had taken three years to complete and that it is a very personal piece. “People who worked with or knew Bowie donated their handprints to the project,”
SHOW OF HANDS: Guy Portelli with his sculpture, Starman: Innerspace
Guy explained. “Among those featured are guitarists Nile Rodgers and Peter Frampton, music producers Brian Eno and Tony Visconti, singers Neil Tennant and Goldie, as well as lots of artists, directors, old friends – and even some reclusive ex-girlfriends.” The giant mosaic is made up of 69 handprints, marking the age Bowie was when he died. “It’s taken three years of work to track all these people down and then make this,” added Guy, who is also known as ‘sculptor to the rock stars’ courtesy of pieces he has made for Ringo Starr and Robbie Williams. Guy was assisted by local Bowie expert and author Tom Hagler to get each of the 69 different
handprints commissioned. All of the participants, he says, were delighted to help in order to ‘retain fond memories of the singer’. Guy will be leading some mosaic workshops during the exhibition and will also be working on a new Beatles mosaic. Alongside Guy’s work, there will also be eight ‘music-related’ paintings by fellow local artist Chris Myers who is currently the President of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours. “The Wadhurst-based painter will be exhibiting a number of music-related works which capture the essence of David Bowie and compliment the sculptures in technique and interpretation,” adds the Trinity spokesperson. For more information on Guy Portelli’s work visit portelli-sculptor.co.uk. Exhibition details at trinitytheatre.net/events/bowieinner-circle
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Health & Wellbeing
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Build on these five pillars for your foundations of wellbeing…
The pillars are: 1. Right exercise 2. Right breathing 3. Right thinking 4. Right nutrition 5. Right relaxation
School is its focus on the five pillars that were taught to be of equal importance and, when balanced correctly, assure a healthy and fulfilled life. It’s interesting to see that these five pillars have been adopted and adapted by many health and wellbeing companies, including our own NHS. There are the inevitable adjustments and alternations made to suit each audience’s particular needs and yet the principle of five and the premise of offering a set of guidelines for a healthy life remain. As we go through the pillars together week by week, I actively recommend
Take a good hard look at this list and consider if you follow any of these seriously already, or if you have blind spots or weak links to your life support system. For example, how often do you stop to rest or focus on your breath? How regularly do you consciously consider what you eat and where the food you consume comes from? Do you meditate regularly to keep your mind healthy and strong, and do you do the same for your body? My suggestion is to take a piece of paper and literally draw five pillars for yourself. Label them up and divide them each into 10 segments. Now give yourself a mark out of 10 for each pillar, for
RIGHT RELAXATION
RIGHT NUTRITION
that you make your own refinements, creating just the right recipe with the right balance of ingredients to suit your taste. The key point here is that five is the magic number and it’s for you to build your five and then adhere to them.
RIGHT THINKING
I
n the first part of my new six-week feature, I’m going to discuss the five pillars you live your life by, and ask if you’ve ever even thought about it. According to the Sivananda School of Yoga, there is a model of five pillars, or principals of focus points that, when adhered to, can help you remain in an optional balanced state of holistic health. Sounds pretty cool eh? Well, honestly, it is! So, over the following weeks, we’re going to focus on these five pillars one at a time to see if together we can construct a bespoke lifestyle map that will help you keep on an even keel and stay, happy, healthy, and steady, whatever the weather. Now, if you were to be part of the Sivananda School of Yoga you would have a very particular lens through which you would view the following five pillars. You would also know what this particular yogic school was all about. Let me help you out a little here. Sivananda Yoga began in India and was expanded globally by a devotee of Swami Sivananda in the late 1950s. Sivananda himself began his career as a dedicated physician running a hospital in Malaysia from 1913 to 1923. Later returning to India where he began a life as a monk before establishing an ashram where his teachings were shared and adopted by many followers, he died in 1963. One of the key premises of the Sivananda
FIVE PILLARS of health RIGHT EXERCISE
Join Times wellbeing guide, Lucy Parker, from Flow Tunbridge Wells, for the next six weeks as she helps you to build your own five wellbeing pillars to abide by for a happier, healthier you
The
RIGHT BREATHING
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example giving a five for thinking, three for breathing and eight for exercise. Be honest with yourself and keep the piece of paper to reflect on both in six weeks, at the end of this feature, and then again in six months when it might be possible you’ve forgotten it, and equally possible you’ve boosted all five pillars up a notch or two! Each week we will take a careful look into each of these five pillars individually to offer you some simple, quick and easy suggestions that you can adopt straight away to boost each one of your five pillars and strengthen your overall wellbeing for this year and beyond. Remember, I’m here as your friendly local registered counsellor and coach and will be happy to welcome you to my Tunbridge Wells, Groombridge or online practice should you choose to work privately with me. I also offer a free discovery call that can be booked via my website. Lucy Parker, Coach, Counsellor, and Yoga Therapist flowtunbridgewells.com embarkcounselling.co.uk
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TO celebrate the New Year, the Times has teamed up with registered charity, Fusion Lifestyle, which manages three leisure centres in the area: Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, Putlands Sports & Leisure Centre and The Weald Sports Centre. To kickstart your fitness in 2024, we’re giving you the chance to win a one-year membership to the centre of your choice. All three centres offer great facilities at great value, whether you’re into the gym, group exercise classes, racquet sports or – at Tunbridge Wells and The Weald – swimming too, with everything you need to help you achieve priceless results.
For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Tunbridge Wells Paralympian Will Bayley will be competing at the Paralympic Games in Paris this year, but which sport will he compete in? But don’t worry, if you’re not the lucky winner you can still take advantage of Fusion’s January offer with no joining fee and 50 per cent off your first month’s payment. Find out more at fusion-lifestyle.com To enter the competition, email communitynews@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk with your name and answer to the question by January 31, 2024. The winner will be selected and emailed… good luck! Usual Terms and Conditions apply.
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FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Beat the workday blues with free coffee at One Warwick Park Hotel
business scene, providing premier and dedicated support to its business travellers. Operating as a ‘one-stop shop’ for its corporate clientele, business owners can enjoy complimentary room upgrades, round-the-clock schedule management for events hosted at the hotel, and a dedicated point of contact during their stay. To take advantage of One Warwick Park Hotel’s new corporate concierge service, companies should contact Zoe at zoe.ward@onewarwickpark.co.uk
ONE Warwick Park Hotel is extending a warm welcome to local business professionals and remote workers. Located near the historic Pantiles, the boutique hotel is offering complimentary tea, coffee, and mini pastries every day from 10am to 4pm throughout January. The initiative aims to foster a co-working community, building on the success of the hotel’s corporate concierge service launched last year. Conveniently located just a short five-minute walk from the mainline train station, the award-winning venue is popular for luxury staycations, weddings, events, and corporate gatherings. It provides easy access for both local professionals and those from further afield seeking meeting room hire or conference facilities.
Networking Featuring a large Function Room capable of accommodating up to 180 guests for seminars and award nights, as well as smaller spaces like the Terrace Bar and Atrium for presentations and networking, the hotel offers all the amenities required for corporate events of various scales. With an onsite team of chefs, the food menus add another layer of convenience. The complimentary coffee offer comes at an opportune time, providing a space not only for business owners but also for those working remotely to network, make connections, and enjoy a change of scenery as they plan for a successful start to 2024. Free tea, coffee, and mini-pastries will be served in The Bar and Snug every day, with no need for prior booking or sign-ups to take advantage of the
Picture: David Bartholomew
setup in the hotel’s vibrant co-working spaces. Zoe Ward, Corporate Concierge at One Warwick Park Hotel said, “We’re pleased to welcome local businesses and remote workers to explore our meeting areas, enjoy a good cup of coffee and connect with new people.” She added, “This time of year can be challenging but exciting for many businesses; a change of scenery and the opportunity to forge new connections can be valuable.” Since its launch last year, the hotel’s new corporate concierge service has revitalised its
Picture: John Knight
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26
Gig Guide
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
January 10 to January 23 In his fortnightly guide, Times Music Editor Paul Dunton selects his must-see gigs, including hip-hop funsters Goldie Lookin Chain and contemporary folk-rocker Jesca Hoop at The Forum THE BLACK HORSE PUB, CAMDEN ROAD Open all day, music events – free entry (unless stated) music from 8pm – Live music every Friday night THE BOTTLE HOUSE INN, PENSHURST Open all day, free entry music from 6pm booking advised on 01892 870306 or online at www. thebottlehouseinnpenshurst.co.uk 12/01 Jez Harley 19/01 Steve Spall (The Violet Jive) THE BUZZ, 7 THE PANTILES Open all day, free entry, music from 7pm (unless stated) booking advised on 080002119333 12/01 Junior Moore Duo 19/01 Unit 48 THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM Event information and tickets at www. twforum.co.uk 13/01 Goldie Lookin Chain 14/01 Ben Ottewell (Gomez) 18/01 Jesca Hoop 19/01 Barrioke 20/01 Barrioke THE FORUM BASEMENT, THE SUSSEX ARMS All event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk 19/01 Swansea Sound + The Treasures of Mexico 27/01 Skies & Seek Harbour
PAUL STEPTOE AND PETE METCALFE
THE VIOLET JIVE TRIO
JEZ HARLEY
BEN OTTEWELL THE GEORGE & DRAGON, LAMBERHURST Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm 12/01 Open Mic/Jam session all welcome 19/01 Open Mic/Jam session all welcome
Symphony Orchestra. Repertoire: FAURÉ Suite from Pelléas et Mélisande, Op. 80 BRUCH Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46 DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 8 in G major, Op. 8 Roderick Dunk – Conductor Nicola Benedetti – Violin
THE PAMOJA HALL, SEVENOAKS SCHOOL All event information and tickets available at www.rtwso.org 14/01 Royal Tunbridge Wells
THE ROYAL OAK PUB, PROSPECT ROAD Open all day, free entry live music normally from 8pm unless stated 09/01 Folk In The Oak (7pm)
JUNIOR MOORE DUO
Featuring Paul Steptoe and Pete Metcalfe, John Faulkes, Geordie Hunter, Jason & Lisa 12/01 First Friday Acoustic – The Harveys (7pm) 13/01 Live music (8pm) act tbc 17/01 The Americana Sessions (7pm) 20/01 Live music (8pm) act tbc
TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB, YE OLDE CHEQUERS INN, 122 HIGH ST, TONBRIDGE All event information at www. tonbridgefolkclub.org 15/01 Tonbridge Folk Club Presents ‘Capella’ Singers and musicians welcome
ST EDITH FOLK SESSIONS, OTFORD MEMORIAL HALL, THE VESTRY HALL AND QUEEN’S HALL AT CRANBROOK All event information and tickets available at www.stedithfolk.co.uk/ what-s-on 19/01 Simon Stanley Ward + JR Coote
TRINITY THEATRE, CHURCH ROAD All event details and tickets available at www.trinitytheatre.net 13/01 The Elton John Show 14/01 The George Harrison Project 19/01 The Simon & Garfunkel Story
TN1 BAR & KITCHEN, MONSON ROAD Open all day live music usually every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening from 7.30pm. Booking advised Via 01892 513900 or visit www. tn1barkitchen.co.uk
TYBER’S REGGAE BAR, 9 NEVILL STREET All event information and tickets available at www.tybersreggaebar. com/events 12/01 Selector Stix DJs 13/01 Section 8 18/01 Tyber & Pete + Janet Kay & Carrol Thompson 19/01 Si Rass Don Mighty Vibes DJ 20/01 Peter Azzopardi
If you are a venue local to Tunbridge Wells that hosts regular live music or even if it’s a one-off event, concert or festival, contact Paul at least six weeks in advance of your event date with the following details: • Name and address of venue • Date and time of event • Name of event and name of act(s) • Ticket link and/or website (please state if free entry) • 1 x high resolution (300 dpi) landscape jpeg (performer only, no posters) • Please state photo credit if required NICOLA BENEDETTI
paul@paulduntonandguests.com
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Food & Drink
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
What will be trending in the local food and drink scene in 2024?
Produced in Kent, an organisation which champions the county’s finest producers and products, has curated a special trends list for 2024. Eileen Leahy savours a taste of what it believes will be big news for our tastebuds this year…
T
he leading local food and drink trade organisation, Produced in Kent, is at the forefront of supporting and highlighting the food and drink produced in the Garden of England. The group is also behind the successful Taste of Kent Awards – dubbed the food and drink Oscars of our county. Now in its 20th year, the awards are dedicated to showcasing the tastiest produce the county has to offer while shining a spotlight on the many hard-working businesses behind all our wonderful food, drink and hospitality hubs. Previous local Taste of Kent winners include the Pig & Porter brewery in Tunbridge Wells, The Small Holding in Kilndown, Cellar Head Brewing Company near Wadhurst, Kingcott Dairy in Staplehurst, Must Chup sauces in Rusthall and Groombridge Place Farm Shop. Here, Produced in Kent’s CEO Floortje Hoette shares some of her industry insight and trend predictions for 2024, as well as top tips on how independent food and drink businesses can capitalise on these in their marketing…
Less ultra-processed foods
In recent times, we have seen a backlash against ultra-processed foods, with leading specialists including Chris van Tulleken highlighting the fact that ultra-processed foods are damaging our physical and mental health.
‘Consumers want convenience but also transparency – we want to know what goes in our food and where it comes from’ Floortje says: “Consumers want convenience but also transparency – we want to know what goes in our food and where it comes from. Most of us don’t have the time to cook everything from scratch and so I think we will see more products that fit in that middle zone – processed for our
convenience but not ultra-processed with a long list of indistinguishable ingredients. “There are some really innovative independent businesses using ingredients where quality takes precedence and processing is considered to ensure maximum taste and minimum additives.
FLOORTJE HOETTE For example, Freddies Farm, the winners of TV show Aldi’s Next Big Thing, is making tasty children’s snacks using British fresh fruit and veg with no added sugar and minimal processing, so parents can appreciate the convenience without worrying about nasty additives.”
Small treats
While the cost of living is still at the forefront of our minds, restricting the purse strings altogether is too much for most of us to maintain, so small treats are just what we need to boost morale and feel good into 2024. Food and drink sits at the centre of the self-care and treats market, with either guilt-free pleasures like fresh local fruit or more indulgent moments like a shared bottle of wine. 2024 will be about the perfect balance of cost and enjoyment. Floortje explains: “Artisan brands are perfectly positioned to be able to offer people those small moments of joy – a box of chocolates, a local jar of honey or a hand-decorated cake from a bakery are affordable treats that can brighten the day.”
Functional foods
In recent times, we have seen how technology can improve our food, either by saving us time in preparing meals or by improving the nutrition of our usual favourites. Consumers are demanding more from their food and it now must be functional as well as tasty. The recent rise in protein-packed products and gut-friendly foods has demonstrated how we are looking for specific functions and benefits. Floortje predicts that we will continue to demand more of our food and the winners will be those keeping up with technology capabilities. “Kent-based Ro-Gro specialise in growing microgreens. They are leading the way in employing technology and renewable farming practices, showcasing a vertical farm powered by 40 per cent solar energy. But not only are they making use of tech to maximise production, they are also focusing on growing salad which provides the consumer with maximum health benefits, as microgreens have more minerals and micronutrients than fully grown plants.”
Gut health
Consumers are increasingly recognising the link between gut health and overall wellbeing, driving demand for probiotic-rich options and creating a surge in gut health awareness.
Floortje sees a rising demand for these local gems, stating: “Kent-based Zak’s Kombucha and Wasted Kitchen offer both flavour and health benefits. Zak’s Kombucha offers probioticpacked kombucha, while Wasted Kitchen tackles food waste with diverse, gut-friendly fermented products. As gut health gains prominence, these local producers emerge as go-to choices for both taste and well-being.”
Eating out
There is no doubt that the pandemic shook the hospitality sector to its core, and while this has undoubtedly influenced an increase in home delivery and takeaway habits, eating out at restaurants and pubs is finally beginning to bounce back. “In 2024 I think we will see more eating out, but customers will prioritise quality over quantity, in other words they may eat out less than pre-covid but will spend more when they do, maximising those occasions. The traditional English pub now competes with fine dining restaurants, with many picking up AA Rosette awards for their locally-sourced menus,” adds Floortje.
ABOUT PRODUCED IN KENT Produced in Kent is a trade organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting all types of food, drink and craft businesses in Kent. The team provides vital support to a diverse range of businesses which in turn provide valuable employment opportunities in Kent and are at the economic heart of our rural communities. Produced in Kent is a strong, widely recognised brand, benefiting and promoting its membership businesses. It provides business support, advice and networking opportunities for its members.
Books
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
29
Times reporter Grace Corcoran picks three reads for your week
This week, revolution meets the supernatural in Imogen EdwardsJones’ ‘The Witch’s Daughter’, a smart new thriller from Elly Conway and the return of the grande dame of crime, Lynda La Plante… The Witch’s Daughter by Imogen Edwards-Jones
Argylle by Elly Conway
Alibi by Lynda La Plante
Set amidst the bloody turmoil of the 1917 Russian Revolution, ‘The Witch’s Daughter’ is the sequel to Edwards-Jones’ previous work, ‘The Witches Of St Petersburg’. But it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, for it follows the story of Nadezhda, the daughter of one of the Black Princesses of Montenegro, a young girl who refuses to accept the unearthly powers that flow through her royal veins. But as the Romanovs are slaughtered and Petrograd is gripped by anarchy, Nadezhda is compelled to accept her destiny in order to save those she loves. Packed with historic detail and based on true accounts of the Russian Revolution, The Witch’s Daughter sheds light on a dark and turbulent period in modern history, from a new and unusual perspective. It will appeal to readers who prefer their fiction to be densely-packed with description, narrative and a broad cast of characters, and who will find, in Nadezhda, a reluctant heroine who is battling forces beyond her and within.
If you’ve never put a toe into the waters that is TikTok, and have stayed well away from the murky pool that is X (formerly known as Twitter), the hotbed of gossip surrounding this book will be a total mystery to you – the wildest theory being that Taylor Swift is actually the author. Whoever Elly Conway is, the story stands up. The titular character, Argylle, has grown up in the jungles of Thailand. When a plane goes down in the druggrowing region, Argylle comes under the watchful eye of a spymaster at the CIA, and is quickly forced into joining an elite mission. As with every spy thriller, there must be a bad guy, and here it is the turn of ruthless Russian magnate, Vasily Federov, who will stop at nothing to get what he wants – which is to be president. It’s a ridiculously good read – and will just leave you wondering how the accompanying film, starring Henry Cavill and Bryce Dallas Howard, will fit it all in.
Two women brutally murdered, another survives – three men confess, but the police know they are covering for the attacker. And so another gripping novel by one of the world’s most celebrated crime authors unfolds, with La Plante’s trademark gift of keeping the reader guessing until the final few pages. Police investigating two horrific murders believe they have a breakthrough when another woman survives to give a description of her attacker and his distinctive van. They arrest the suspect, Damon Morton, but three of his employees admit to the crimes, and his wife and girlfriend each provide him with an alibi for the days of the attacks. The police investigation turns into a courtroom drama, with the eyewitness’s emotional testimony coming up against women prepared to lie under oath. You’ll love being kept on tenterhooks to see if justice prevails, with fans of crime thrillers in for a treat with ‘Alibi’.
Review by Hannah Colby
Review by Rachel Howdle
Review by Alan Jones
Published in hardback by Bloomsbury Publishing, priced £20
Published in hardback by Bantam, priced £18.99
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Motors
Wednesday January 10 | 2024
Is the Alpine A110 R the sports car to take on Porsche?
FACTS AT A GLANCE
Model: Alpine A110 R Price: £96,990 Engine: 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol Power: 296bhp 0-60mph: 3.7 seconds Top speed: 177mph Economy: 41.5mpg Emissions: 155g/km
All pictures: Alpine
Torque: 340Nm
Alpine looks to create a track weapon still usable for the road with its A110 R. Ted Welford finds out if it succeeds… What is it?
The R uses the A110 S as its base, adopting that car’s more powerful engine, and then has looked to shed weight. The standard car is hardly heavy, but thanks to a range of measures, Alpine’s managed to shave 34kg from it, while still retaining pleasant niceties like a touchscreen and climate control. Some of the stand-out differences you’ll notice are its mismatched carbon wheels, which look different at the rear to the front – a proper racing car trait – as well as the bonnet and rear window section being replaced by carbon fibre. There are also manually adjustable coilovers, though as per factory settings, the A110 R sits lower and is stiffer than the standard car.
R is what it’s powered by, which is the same midmounted 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine as that in the A110 S and previous Renaultsport Megane hot hatches. Drive is sent to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox too – Alpine has never offered a manual option on the A110. The 296bhp and 340Nm might seem fairly modest in this day and age, but it’s worth remembering the low weight here, and even still the A110 R can manage 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds (three-tenths of a second less than the ‘S’) and head onto a top speed of 177mph. Thanks to the Alpine’s small engine and lightness, it’s also nowhere near as expensive to run as you might anticipate a sports car of this ilk to be – with a claimed fuel economy figure of 41.5mpg and 155g/km CO2 emissions. What’s it like to drive? From the moment you get into the one-piece Sabelt bucket seats and strap yourself in with the six-point race harnesses, you know the A110 R means business – almost excessively for a road car. The low-speed ride is brittle but when you gather speed it becomes more compliant, almost impressively so for a car with such track focus. But the A110 R’s steering – like the standard car – is just exceptional. It’s super quick and direct – point and turn and it does just that. Few can make a car that’s as much fun down a British B-road as this. The engine is perhaps not quite special enough for a £100,000 car, but the dual-clutch ‘box changes gears rapidly, and is accompanied by a more raucous sports exhaust system with 3D-printed elements that in the ‘Sport’ driving mode is childishly loud (in a good way) with an amass of pops and crackles as it downshifts.
What’s under the bonnet?
How does it look?
Sports car manufacturers love creating lighter, more extreme special editions and charging for the privilege. Porsche and Lotus have been doing it for years, and now Alpine wants to do the same with the A110. Alpine is a lesser-known firm, which was revived in 2018 as Renault’s sporty arm, and has gained quite a reputation for its light and agile A110. There have been numerous versions of this sports car that have led to the A110 R – the lightest, most aggressive and track-focused Alpine yet.
What’s new?
One thing Alpine hasn’t changed with the A110
The standard A110 is known for its clean,
uncluttered lines, but the R is a far cry from that. It’s as if Renault did a deal with a carbon-fibre manufacturer to get as much of it on the car as possible – it’s used for the bonnet, roof, wheels, side skirts and splitters and even the rear glass is replaced by a carbon-fibre panel. It might be a far cry from the standard A110, but it certainly looks purposeful, with the revised ‘swan-neck spoiler’ giving it the true look of a road-legal race car. Our test car also came painted in a cool ‘Matte Racing Blue’ finish, albeit for a rather steep £6,000.
What’s it like inside?
The key change inside compared to the ‘S’ are those single-piece Sabelt bucket seats. These alone save 5kg, and while they’re not the easiest to climb in and out of, they’re surprisingly comfortable once you’re in – even for several hours driving at a time. If you’re buying the A110 R to use on the road, the standard race harnesses are just a bit overkill, though, and the combination of being pinned to the seat and no
rear window means visibility is quite compromised. Microfibre adorns pretty much every possible inch of the interior, from the roof to the dashboard and steering wheel, while the painted matte blue finish of the top section of the doors looks superb too. The Alpine is compromised when it comes to luggage space, though, with a tiny boot area in the back and though there’s a box area under the bonnet, you’d struggle to fit even a small suitcase in.
What’s the spec like?
While we’ve talked a lot about carbon-fibre, which isn’t cheap, there are still plenty of everyday creature comforts in the A110 R. In this respect, it hasn’t been fully stripped out, with features like climate control, a Focal sound system and cruise control all included, along with a digital instrument cluster. The actual climate settings and main touchscreen are borrowed from an old Clio, however. Admittedly this is a track special edition done properly – and all that carbon-fibre doesn’t come cheap, with the wheels alone rumoured to cost £8,000 – but at £96,990, the A110 R is fiercely expensive. Even more so when you consider the A110 S it’s based on is available for £30,000 less.
The verdict
The A110 R is unquestionably the most aggressive and purposeful version of the Alpine A110 yet. From its racing seats to its wild styling, it adds a different dimension to
everything we’ve seen from this firm so far, while still retaining the on-road brilliance that the standard car is renowned for. For anyone looking to take their car to the track, the A110 R is the version to go for. But for road use, the awkward racing harnesses and limited visibility might just prove more of an annoyance than a benefit. If you want the ultimate A110, the R is the one, but we reckon at £30,000 less for the A110 S, that is where our money would go.
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