SO Magazine February 28th 2024

Council Leader reveals key points of proposed five-year plan for Borough

FOLLOWING the recent publication of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s (TWBC) draft Strategic Plan for 2024-29 earlier this month, The Times sat down to speak exclusively with Council Leader Ben Chapelard about what he believes the Borough can achieve in the next five years.

The draft plan comes after a consultation of over 1,500 residents last summer and follows a councillor convention which brought together councillors from across the local county, borough, town, and parish councils.

The six-week consultation period began on February 2, with residents of Tunbridge Wells Borough given until March 15 to offer feedback on the plan.

The proposed five-year plan sets out TWBC’s five priorities for the Borough’s future. The priorities of Climate Action,

Environment, Sustainable Growth, Vibrant Economy and Community Wellbeing aim to achieve a more equal and connected community ‘where all generations can live healthy and fulfilling lives’.

‘The proposed draft plan comes after a consultation of over 1,500 residents last summer. Members of the public now have until March 15 to consider it’

Policies in councils’ local plans are expected to be reviewed every five years to assess whether they need updating in order to fulfil the changing needs of any

given borough.

Mr Chapelard, who has been Councillor of St James Ward since 2010 and Council Leader since 2022, heads the coalition council’s Borough Partnership, comprised of Liberal Democrats (LD), Tunbridge Wells Alliance (TWA) and Labour (Lab) councillors, along with one independent councillor for Paddock Wood (East).

“I see the Council as a force for good, it’s a really powerful organisation that is here to do good things for residents, businesses and visitors. So, the strategic plan is about putting all our energies and our focus into the things we think can make the biggest difference,” he told the Times last week.

Ben Chapelard interview – page 4

Barrister quits as LCF trial continues

By Madeleine Anderson

THE London Capital Finance (LCF) civil proceedings continued in the High Court last week, February 20, with the barrister defending the mini-bond firm leaving court on the first day stating there was no prospect of their fees being paid.

Before the opening submissions could begin Ian Mayes KC, who was representing former LCF Chief Executive Michael Andrew Thompson, stood down. He told the court that ‘despite best efforts’ Thompson had been unable to release the funds required to pay the barrister.

Collapse

The court heard how LCF had sold 16,706 bonds to 11,625 members of the public, raising a total of over £235 million by the time of the investment company’s collapse in 2019.

Stephen Robins KC, representing the claimants, argued in written submissions that LCF had been ‘a Ponzi scheme from the outset’ as it used “new investors’ monies to pay returns to existing investors.”

As the Times has previously reported, Tunbridge Wells businessman and former local Conservative Association Chairman, Simon Hume Kendall, is among the defendants.

Hume Kendall stands alleged of breaching ‘fiduciary duty’, meaning the legal responsibility to act solely in the best interest of another party.

The trial, which is expected to last 20 weeks, continues.

MOMENT OF REFLECTION: An event marking two years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine took place at St Mary’s Ukrainian School in Skinner’s Kent Academy (SKA) on Saturday February 23. Students and families were joined by Mayor Hugh Patterson, Mayoress Sandra Patterson, Councillor Hugo Pound, TWBC Chief Executive William Benson and SKA Principal Hannah Knowles. More on page 3

week…

NO NEED FOR SPEED: Frant Road safety group on why they’re making an urgent plea for traffic calming. P5

JOINING FORCES:

Two local businesswomen reveal the instant success of their menopause product. P9

FOOD HEROES: Charlie’s Angels Kitchens reflect on a busy two months since launching their café and community hub. P11

ON THE MENU: Don’t miss our new SO Food & Drink supplement with all the latest news and reviews. P19

NEWS

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Speldhurst pitch plans must be rejected says Parish Council

By Ben Cornwell

AS PREVIOUSLY reported in the Times, Langton Green Community Sports Association (LGCSA) have submitted a planning application to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) for the creation of a new floodlit all-weather playing surface on the land next to Langton Green Recreation Centre.

Despite many comments being left in favour of the application on the TWBC Planning Portal, the Speldhurst Parish Council (SPC) planning committee have ‘unanimously’ recommended the rejection of the application following its meeting on February 12.

Infrastructure

The meeting was attended by 40 members of the public, one of whom spoke in favour of the 3G pitch – a representative from LGCSA – and it appeared that the remainder were objecting to the application.

Those in favour of the application thanked LGCSA for raising funds from the Football Foundation and believed the site was perfect for such a facility as it was close to the school and the infrastructure already in place. Although they had concerns about the rubber crumb surface and suggested other surfaces could be investigated.

However, the 18 speakers who objected to the planning application raised diverse concerns:

• Many comments on the portal came from non-parish residents.

• The local primary school opposed the application, citing no support.

• Lack of notice and consultation with LGCSA left nearby residents uninformed.

• Environmental impacts, particularly on wildlife like deer, bats, great crested newts, and elderly horses, raised concerns.

• Light pollution threatened the village’s cherished dark skies.

• Alternative pitches nearby, like Bennett Memorial, St Gregory’s, and Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys, were pointed out.

• Criticism of antisocial hours and a late 10pm curfew was voiced.

• Traffic volume, flooding worries, damage to flora/fauna, negative impact on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and microplastic contamination concerns were highlighted.

• Finally, the restriction of access to an open field by introducing a 3G pitch was contested.

Local resident Jane Court told the Times: “I

urge readers to understand what an artificial 3G pitch is made of. I didn’t know three weeks ago. I question why recycled tyres banned from UK landfill and under investigation by DEFRA has any place in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Greenbelt.

“Langton Green is a pretty village in a rural setting without streetlights. This proposal significantly impacts our community, environment and infrastructure. The roads are already dangerous and parking a nightmare.

‘Exercise is important, but we have a moral responsibility to protect our countryside and dark skies from light and microplastic pollution for future generations’

“Exercise is important, but we have a moral responsibility to protect our countryside and dark skies from light and microplastic pollution for future generations”.

Following the public’s comments, the planning committee provided their recommendation for the application, which will be circulated to SPC’s councillors ahead of the full council meeting on March 4.

The planning committee recognised the importance of children playing sports and acknowledged it would be beneficial to have outdoor facilities which can be used all year

Paddock Wood residents raise fears over Borough Local Plan

PADDOCK Wood residents voiced concerns at the recent Paddock Wood Town Council meeting regarding amendments to the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Local Plan.

The inspector’s changes included halting the Tudeley Village development and reducing planned housing in Paddock Wood by 1000 houses. Paddock Wood Town Council, after their own assessment, expressed significant worries about the revised proposals.

Concerns

During the meeting, Stop Over Development in Paddock Wood members expressed their concerns particularly regarding the loss of the proposed sports hub. They emphasised limited consultation, with no direct discussions with local sports clubs or public meetings with the Borough.

Further concerns were raised about unclear

plans for education and the cumulative effect on the town. The focus on expanding Mascalls Academy for secondary education, without residents’ input, and delays in planning a second primary school caused unease. The medical services assessment by KCC claimed sufficient healthcare provision for the proposed developments but the Stop Over Development in Paddock Wood argue that medical services are currently strained in Paddock Wood, with Woodlands Health Centre closing its books for new patients and long waiting times being prevalent, as noted in the Christmas 2023 Patient Survey.

The consultation period for the revised proposals ended on Monday February 26 and will now be reviewed by TWBC. The Council will then decide whether further amendments are needed and will submit the proposed changes to the Local Plan Inspector, who will resume the examination in late spring/early Summer 2024.

round regardless of weather conditions. But after careful consideration, they concluded that this planning application goes ‘way beyond an all-weather pitch’ and ‘the negatives far outweigh the positives.’

A general concern was that the applicant had not undertaken any community engagement or public consultation before submitting the planning application. This was despite informing SPC earlier in 2023 they would be doing so.

They also highlighted that with many of the supporters of the application not living in the Parish or not living close to the area which will be most affected, it further reinforced the ‘risk’ and the ‘concerns’ about the ability of the local infrastructure to cope with the influx of potential users.

LGCSA Chair, Guy Lambert commented:

“LGCSA have been actively involved in community engagement in this project since December. We have been in general discussions with SPC for over a year and a half and asked them to submit in writing any questions they may have had about the application, in order that we could forward them to the relevant professionals. We have heard nothing from SPC.

“The decision of the planning committee to recommend refusal is disappointing but requires confirmation from the Full Council at a meeting to be held next Monday. We await the outcome of this with interest."

Any final decision on the application will be made at a later date by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Planning Committee.

BID vote deadline

TOMORROW (February 29) is the last day members of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Together Business Improvement District (BID) can cast their vote to decide whether they would like to see another five-year term of the BID or not.

Once the deadline passes, votes will be counted the following day on March 1.

Businesses who form part of the BID contribute an annual levy based on the rateable value of their premises. Since the BID began in 2019 £2.1million of funds have been raised.

RTW Together then manages these funds to carry out improvements, marketing and events to bolster trade and tourism.

THE EXISTING RECREATION GROUND

Two found dead at Tunbridge Wells house

TWO people were found dead at a house in Tunbridge Wells last Friday (February 23).

Officers were called to an address near Powder Mill Lane in High Brooms at about 12.30pm, a Kent Police spokesperson said.

A man and a woman, who were known to each other, were declared dead at the scene.

Their next of kin have been informed and officers are not looking for anyone else in relation to the deaths.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances,” a force spokesperson explained.

Gatwick Trust calls for groups to apply for funds

THE Gatwick Airport Community Trust is calling on local groups to apply for grant funding.

A total of £250,000 of funding is available for groups based in Kent, West Sussex, East Sussex, and Surrey.

The Trust supports schemes which benefit diverse sections of the local community, targeting groups involving the arts, sports, young people, the elderly and the disabled.

Amongst last year’s recipients was Age UK Tunbridge Wells which received £2,000.

Latest Kent PCC report findings revealed

FIGURES from the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner’s Annual Report have revealed that the majority of the county’s domestic abuse victims were satisfied by the police support they received in 2023.

The data, which covers April to December 2023, recorded a rise in satisfaction to 90.3% from 88.6% in the same period during 2022.

Commenting on the data Sam Haspell, CEO of the Tunbridge Wells Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Services, said: “It is encouraging to see the improving levels of victim satisfaction, but there is always more to be done, we support our clients to address worries or concerns.”

Commons clearing begins on Rusthall Road

TUNBRIDGE Wells and Rusthall Commons have cleared the area around Apsley Street near Rusthall Road, protecting the local rock feature by removing all nearby saplings and small trees.

Explaining the clearing process Commons Ranger, Daniel Colborne, said: “The great news is that by clearing the saplings, we are also allowing more light onto the rocks and the surrounding area, attracting more wildflowers and more pollinators (butterflies and bees) and creating a beautiful view for our community to enjoy.”

TWBC announces under 18s art competition

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) has launched a competition for young artists. Applicants aged eighteen and under are being asked to provide an A4 drawing of their ideal town centre.

The competition is divided into three categories for children under 5, aged 6 to 12, and 13 to 18.

Shortlisted designs will be given the chance to win an exciting prize, including tickets to ‘There’s a Monster in Your Show’ from sponsor Trinity Theatre.

The competition closes on April 15 2024, with more information at tunbridgewells. gov.uk

Town’s Ukrainian community marks second year of the war

By Madeleine Anderson

THE Ukrainian community of Tunbridge Wells came together last weekend with an event to mark two years since the start of the Russian invasion.

The event on February 24 was held at St Mary’s Ukrainian School which opened on the site of Skinner’s Kent Academy (SKA) in April 2023 and now supports over 70 Ukrainian children in the town.

Wearing traditional Ukrainian vyshyvanka dress and surrounded by children’s versions of well-known Ukrainian paintings, families joined to sing their national anthem, remember those they had lost and share their love for Ukraine.

‘We’re coming together to support each other; we’re finding a shoulder to cry on but we’re also persevering and we’re finding hope’

Rimma Tertytska, Setting Manager of St Mary’s Ukrainian School, said that while she wished the event didn’t have to happen, local Ukrainians were determined to ‘rebuild the map’.

“Two years of full-scale invasion and 10 years of the Russian-Ukrainian war and we’re hurting.

“We’re coming together to support each other; we’re finding a shoulder to cry on but we’re also persevering and we’re finding hope, and we know that we’re going to fight until we win.

“This is a message to the world and to ourselves that we’re still going strong, and we’re prepared to continue as long as it takes,” she explained.

The community was joined by Tunbridge Wells Mayor Hugh Patterson and Mayoress Sandra Patterson, Councillor Hugo Pound, and William Benson, Chief Executive of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC).

ANNIVERSARY: Children’s artwork at St Mary’s Ukrainian School

Speaking to the Times, Mayor Patterson said: “I think it’s very important to show support, it’s obviously a very sad anniversary.

“This was a very moving ceremony that took place, so I am pleased the community of Tunbridge Wells has been able to support the Ukrainian community with the provision of the school.

“We wish them all the very best for the future and hopefully it won’t be too long before they’re back home.”

The school site has been given for St Mary’s to use every weekend free of charge, with SKA Principal Hannah Knowles calling the decision a ‘no-brainer’.

“For us, it’s just about making sure that there is a space in the town that can be a local space for students to make sure they have an opportunity to celebrate their culture, to make sure they have their lessons in their home language and just feel part of their community at a particularly difficult time,” she said.

MIKE MARTIN VISITS ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

In another event marking two years of the Russian-Ukrainian war Mike Martin, prospective Liberal Democrat MP for Tunbridge Wells, spoke to Tunbridge Wells Royal British Legion (RBL) about the Ukraine war and its context last weekend.

Martin, a former army officer, is a Senior Visiting Fellow at the Department of War Studies at King’s College London and has written two books on the topic of warfare.

Speaking after the event he said: “It was a great honour to be invited to speak to the RBL in Tunbridge Wells on the war in Ukraine, global geopolitics, and British defence policy. They are an incredible bunch dedicated in heart and soul to the memory of our veterans and I support them completely in their endeavours.”

Cathy Newman and Liz Earle amongst latest authors announced for TW Lit Fest

By Lucy Smith

WHETHER it’s Cathy Newman sharing stories of inspiring women, Liz Earle offering her secrets to a happier life, or Simon James Green reminding us of the powerful potential of storytelling, TW Lit Fest has an event to offer readers of every generation, celebrating the list of lessons that can be learnt in each new novel.

On Friday May 10 at 5pm skincare entrepreneur Liz Earle MBE will be reading from her uplifting new book ‘A Better Second Half,’ sorting wellbeing fact from fiction and offering a guiding hand through the chaos of the online world.

Insights

Later on Friday May 10 at 7.30pm stand-up comedian Geoff Norcott will be providing his insights on ‘blokedom,’ seeking to explain the unexpected meanings behind ‘every bloke’s’ classic loves of football, sheds, and all things SAS.

On Saturday May 11 at 11am theatre maker Adam Power-Annand will be sharing extracts from ‘That’s My Story! Drama for communication, confidence and creativity in KS1 and beyond’, examining the theories and practice which inform Adam’s Speech Bubbles school project, helping children to gain confidence in communication, learning and

play. Adam will also be joined by creative and educational experts to discuss the power of the Speech Bubble project in championing childhood creativity.

Up next at 2pm on Saturday, Channel 4 presenter Cathy Newman will be sharing stories from her latest book ‘The Ladder’, which follows a series of pressing conversations between men and women and highlights the extraordinary achievements of women across fields including politics, science, and activism.

Finally at 4pm on Saturday May 11 Peter James, author of the multi-million copy bestselling ‘Roy Grace’ series returns with a thrilling tale of Roy Grace from a new perspective. With ‘They Thought I Was Dead’ James will be revealing the truth behind beloved character Sandy Grace’s

shocking disappearance, sharing nail-biting stories that will draw in readers old and new.

The 2024 festival is also hosting an antibullying conversation between the young campaigner Charlie Kristensen and Carnegienominated children and young adult author, Simon James Green. Kristensen and Green will be chatting about what it takes to be yourself, celebrating the power of books and stories in encouraging us all to make the world a kinder, more open place. ‘James Green and Charlie Kristensen in Conversation – Boys Like Us’ will take place on Thursday May 9 at 4.15pm, with under 16s going free.

All events will be held at The Trinity Theatre, with tickets now available to purchase from theamelia.co.uk

CATHY NEWMAN

LIZ EARLE

‘This could be the best middle sized town in

By Madeleine Anderson

“EVERY time I leave school and I’m in town or out and about in the Borough, I get really excited about the potential of this place. This could be the best middle-sized town in the country to live in, if we get it right,” says Council Leader and Kent schoolteacher Ben Chapelard as he exclusively discusses Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s (TWBC) proposed five-year draft strategic plan with the Times

The draft plan for 2024-2029 comes after a consultation of over 1,500 Tunbridge Wells residents last summer and follows a Councillor convention which brought together Councillors from across the local county, Borough, town, and parish councils.

The six-week consultation period began on February 2, and residents of Tunbridge Wells Borough have until March 15 to give their opinion.

‘I see the Council as a force for good, it’s a really powerful organisation that is here to do good things for residents, businesses and visitors’

Policies in councils’ local plans are expected to be reviewed every five years to assess whether they need updating in order to fulfil the changing needs of any given borough.

Talking to the Times last week, Mr Chapelard explained that the proposed new strategic plan for 2024-2029 will cover five key areas.

They are: sustainable growth, environment, community wellbeing, a vibrant economy and climate action. Speaking on the latter, Ben Chapelard reveals the aim is to prioritise efforts towards a greener future and that ‘climate action underpins everything we do.’

TWBC has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2030.

Explaining his commitment to eco action Mr Chapelard said: “It’s pretty obvious that the clock’s ticking, there’s an existential threat to us and we can’t wait on the government to decide whether we’re going to tackle it or not.

“In April, TWBC will be trialling its use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), as a more sustainable fuel alternative for bin lorries in the Borough.

He added that without additional financial support, other means of reaching timely carbon neutrality will be tough.

the country’

The Council’s commitment to carbon action feeds into its second goal of protecting and enhancing nature and heritage, alongside promoting safer streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users.

The Council currently has plans to develop a cycle route from Tunbridge Wells to Rusthall to allow residents greener and safer alternatives for travelling into town.

As the Times has previously reported, The Town Hall is also undergoing refurbishment to develop its coworking space and improve the building’s energy efficiency whilst providing new opportunities for businesses to develop in the town centre.

Thoughtful housing and retail development is fundamental to delivering two other pledges – sustainable growth and a vibrant economy –across the Borough.

“It’s about making sure we build the right housing, the settlements, in the right places, for the right needs of residents,” Mr Chapelard said.

As the Times has also reported, The Council recently voted for the provision of Section 106 (S106) money for a large development in Hawkhurst, which includes affordable housing for local people.

Under the Council’s new local plan, 40 per cent of any new housing developments must provide affordable property.

The Times can now exclusively report that TWBC intends to purchase 16 sustainable homes that will be used to house Ukrainian and Afghan families in the Borough.

Mr Chapelard explained that when these families return home, the properties will then be placed back in the Council’s general housing stock.

The Council Leader has big aspirations for

COUNTER VIEW with

Matthew Allen at Synergee

Matthew Allen is a director of Synergee Limited, a firm of Chartered Accountants & business advisers based in Tunbridge Wells.

If you have any questions you'd like to ask Matthew he can be contacted on 01892 772960 | www.synergee.org.uk

retail development too, with goals of creating new jobs and retail offerings, further enlivening the Borough’s nightlife.

“One of the reasons that we bought Royal Victoria Place (RVP) is because we believe that town and village centres can compete with the internet. We’ve just got to adapt those centres for the digital age,” he explained.

For Mr Chapelard, RVP has huge potential as a space which could host a real range of resources, including a cinema. While he was unable to share specifics, he clearly has major plans for the town centre in the years to come.

The Council Leader was clear that the town needs more financial support from central government if it is going to meet its full potential.

Landmarks

He explained that while TWBC is set to present a balanced budget this week, it also faces new park, waste, and leisure centre budgets in three years’ time that will open a £5million gap for the Council.

“What worries me, is all the landmarks we’ve got – St John’s Sports Centre, The Assembly Hall, The Amelia Scott, these are things that bring the community together but they’re all under threat because the Government is not funding us properly.”

TWBC is also holding a public consultation for VISION 2040, the drafted long-term plan for the town centre. Consultations for the plan will close on April 15, with more information available from the Council’s website.

The consultation for The Draft Strategic Plan 2024-29 is open now until March 15 at: talkingpointtunbridgewells.uk. engagementhq.com

There has been a lot in the news recently about the new “side hustle tax” with people worrying that they are to be fined for not declaring income selling items online.

On 1st January, platforms such as Vinted and ebay, will be required to collect information about how much money people are making and report this to HMRC.

But don’t panic if you sell a few old items of clothing on vinted. If these were your own clothes, they are likely to have cost more and you are just clearing out your wardrobe. This is not deemed “trading” and you are not required to declare this income to HMRC.

Although, if you are buying items with the intention of selling them for a profit, then you are deemed to be trading and you may owe tax on any profits made. It is

Medway ‘one of UK’s most polluted rivers’ say anglers

By Lucy Smith

WATER testing by Tunbridge Wells Angling Society (TWAS) has found the River Medway to be one of the most polluted in Britain.

Analysis of river samples taken regularly between Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone revealed some of the highest levels of phosphates, which damage local wildlife and can be harmful to humans if ingested.

TWAS joined the Angling Trusts Water Quality Monitoring Network in 2022, providing information for the Trust’s national database to monitor river quality.

The Society has so far taken 335 water samples by trained volunteers, of which 238 found ‘higher than acceptable’ phosphate levels.

Bacteria

The group has also organised over 75 tests for Ecoli across the Medway River, with every sample showing traces of the bacteria and 95 per cent of samples showing levels above the Safe Swimming Standard.

Ian Tucker, Water Quality Lead at Tunbridge Wells Angling Society told the Times: “Through the testing regime we follow, and the accurate data we gather, we have been able to pinpoint the main causes of pollution in the Upper Medway Catchment.”

The anglers suspect that the problems in the River Medway are the result of sewage outfalls, which generally occur during periods of high rainfall and flooding conditions.

Councillor Ellen Neville, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, highlighted the cultural and environmental importance of our rivers.

She said: “Their healthy functioning is crucial for soil fertility and vital for human consumption, agriculture, and industry.”

Commenting on the significance of having stable access to safe and clean water in our lives, Dr Chris Gardner, Head of Science and Partnerships, at Southeast Rivers Trust said: “Without rivers, we could not shower, wash our clothes, stay hydrated or even flush the loo. Clean and abundant water is a necessity to us and vital to river ecosystems, providing healthy habitats for a diverse range of plants and animals.”

Responding to TWAS findings Southern Water said the group was “absolutely right” to highlight the impact of Phosphates and Nitrates on rivers, adding that the water company was working to improve river quality.

worth noting that with this “trading” income HMRC do allow for a £1,000 Trading Allowance. If your additional income falls below this threshold, you are not required to prepare a tax return or inform HMRC. For example, if you bought an item for £100 and resold it for £150, then the £150 would count towards your Trading Allowance. If you are selling items regularly online you should keep records of your income and expenses so you can work out whether you are entitled to use the trading allowance.

The fact is there is no “side hustle tax”, it is just the same income tax you would pay if you were a sole trader. If your income from a side hustle is over the £1,000 trading allowance threshold, the profit should be declared on a personal tax return each year and would be subject to tax at your effective rate of 20/40/45% depending on your level of earnings.

BEN CHAPELARD

Frant road safety group makes urgent plea for traffic calming

By Ben Cornwell

A LOCAL community-led initiative is calling for ‘immediate traffic calming measures’ to be taken to make Frant Road and its surrounding streets, including Bayham Road, Birling Road and Broadwater Down, safer.

The proposed measures include a 20mph speed limit, speed bumps and mini-roundabout at the intersection between Frant and Bayham Road.

The initiative, co-founded by local residents Emma van Rooyen and Toni Gambonini, was sparked by an escalating and alarming series of traffic incidents on Frant Road.

Despite previous campaigns, such as the notable effort led by Angela Culley, former head of The Mead School in 2016, the pair believe the situation regarding traffic safety has not improved.

Accidents

demanding it. For the safety of our children, for the peace of mind of every parent, and for the future of our community.

By Jack Thornton

LAST Wednesday (February 21), a new service for stroke survivors was launched in the Pop In:

Pop Up Space in Royal Victoria Place.

Co-founder Emma Van Rooyen told the Times: “Frant Road’s safety issues have been ignored for too long. Decades have passed with failed petitions, repeated accidents, and each time we’re told ‘speeding wasn’t involved.’

“This claim flies in the face of what those of us living here experience daily. It’s especially alarming considering the risk to our most vulnerable – our children and elderly residents.

“Schools surround the area, and every parent’s nightmare is a call about an accident involving their child. That’s the stark reality we’re trying to change.

“Teaming up with Councillor Becki Bruneau, we’re not just asking for action, we’re

“It’s time for the authorities to move past denial and start protecting our kids, residents, pedestrians, cyclists and everyone who lives, works and shops in our neighbourhood.”

The petition has so far received 772 signatures, inching closer to the 1,000 needed to prompt a Tunbridge Wells council debate after engaging with Tunbridge Wells South Councillor Becki Bruneau.

To help build up their case, the community group is asking anyone affected by traffic issues on Frant Road to share their stories with them at FrantRoadSafety@gmail.com.

If you would like to find out more about the community initiative, visit: frantroadsafety. co.uk or you can view the petition at: change. org/Frant_Road_Safety

The fortnightly ‘communication café’, hosted by Different Strokes West Kent Peer Support Group, is designed to provide support, encouragement, and a friendly environment for individuals affected by communication problems (aphasia) during stroke recovery. Around a third of all stroke survivors experience communication problems.

West Kent Different Strokes Local Peer Support Group Co-Ordinator and stroke survivor, Lisa Beaumont, pictured second right, told the Times why she decided to set up the new café.

Isolating

She said: “I noticed within the larger West Kent Different Strokes group that I run that there were several members who live with aphasia and there’s very little support ongoing in the community for that disability.

“It can be very isolating for them if they have difficulty to make clear their thoughts to the

people they live with. So, anything that can help them to feel better about their communication is good for them and also their mental health.”

The first trial session was attended by six people and their carer or partner, and was run in collaboration with Becky Puckett, an Associate Specialist Occupational Therapist at Neuro Rehabilitation Kent.

Lisa explained that she wants the café to be a social activity for the attendees where they can build up their confidence and be with people who have gone through a similar experience.

She said over time the sessions will start to introduce tips and techniques to help them practise at home with their conversation partner.

Lisa added: “I wanted to hold something free because I’m really keen to include as many people as possible.

“To make things inclusive, I feel it’s really important to try and put on all the resources and activities without any charge whenever possible.”

If you would like to attend a future session or want further information about the charity’s other activities, email: westkent@ differentstrokes.co.uk or visit differentstrokes. co.uk/groups/west-kent/

ALARMING:

St John’s Fish Bar shares the secrets of its takeaway success

By Madeleine Anderson

WITH half of the UK’s fish and chip shops predicted to close within the next three years, the Times spoke to St John’s Fish Bar friers Jamie Collins and Sam Barton about what makes the takeaway a continuing success.

The shop, which has been open for 30 years, prides itself on using fresh ingredients and delivering the best service possible.

“You have to buy the top-quality ingredients, otherwise you won’t have the top-quality product, simple as that,” Sam said.

St John’s has used the same potato supplier since opening, sourcing its spuds from Paul Bryan in Lewes.

Loyalty

“You get to know the wholesalers that you’re working with really well. I remember once our supplier’s truck broke down and he delivered everything to us in his car. Seeing other people work hard like that, it makes you want to do the same with your own business,” Jamie explained.

But the pair, who’ve both worked at the shop for a number of years, acknowledged that top-quality loyalty comes with an added price tag, with sacks of potatoes that were £5 three years ago now costing the business over £20 each.

Fish prices have also risen, with some deliveries coming in at over £200, where previously they would have been less than £100.

The shop’s fresh fish comes from Sankey’s in Tunbridge Wells and La Mer in Faversham, with St John’s working closely with many other local businesses.

Despite its commitment to high-quality produce, Jamie and Sam explained that the shop also felt a responsibility to keep prices down to ensure local families could continue to enjoy

their food. The shop introduced a £4.99 saver menu as part of its relaunch last summer, offering the choice of a burger, halloumi bites, cod goujons and other mains with a scoop of chips.

“I think we’re the cheapest place to get a hot meal around here, even McDonald’s is more expensive than we are. With us, you get the quality and a decent portion of food – that’s really important,” Jamie explained.

“That’s also the reason we’re so busy. We make great food but we also try and keep things affordable so families can enjoy eating here.

“We want to make people smile if we can, because we understand that takeaways are at most a once-a-week thing for most, so we want to give people a good experience when they come in,” Sam said.

For now, the shop is focused on delivering the best service it can, even if ‘cheap as chips’ doesn’t ring quite as true as it used to.

New business networking group launched for young professionals

By Lucy Smith

THE founders of local business community enTWine have launched a new network aimed at supporting new business owners and sole traders. While enTWine welcomes established business professionals at a director or partner level, interTWine is focused on engaging the next generation of business leaders.

Founders Victoria Sampson, Lynne Gadsden and Pam Loch are bringing enTWine’s slogan of ‘we listen, we share, we benefit’ to interTWine, with both networks being guided by shared values of collaboration and enterprise. With interTWine aimed at businesses based in Tunbridge Wells or within 10 miles of the town centre, Sampson, Gadsden and Loch were keen to launch the group during the Royal Tunbridge Wells Business Improvement District (RTW BID) vote, with all three founders supporting the BID campaign.

Carla Loveday is a Senior Associate Paralegal at CooperBurnett and a founding member of interTWine.

She told the Times what interTWine brings to

up-and-coming professionals in the town: “It is always more reassuring and comforting to push out in a safe and supportive space which also affords the opportunity to give and receive as both the mentor and mentee, from time to time.

Relaxed

“Just as with enTWine, our events aim to offer our members a sense of relaxed gathering and promotion for our hosting businesses. However, with a roots-up approach, we also wanted to acknowledge that an interTWine event may be a first time in itself for someone who has never attended any sort of business forum or networking event before.”

InterTWine has already held two events, at The Shuffle House restaurant and TemperTemper chocolate makers, giving ‘interTWiners’ the chance to chat and share ideas. The next event will be held at The Claremont Pub on Wednesday March 13. Tickets are £30 plus booking fee and are available from Eventbrite website.

For more information about interTWine, contact Carla Loveday at cxl@cooperburnett.com

Picture: Carla Loveday

COD SQUAD: Sam Barton and Jamie Collins

YOUTH

Founding InterTWiners celebrate at the launch event

The Bell in Ticehurst celebrates AA food award for second year

By Ben Cornwell

THE Bell in Ticehurst has been recognised for its ‘culinary excellence’ once again in 2024 with the popular pub receiving a Double AA Rosette for its February menu.

The Double AA Rosette is a recognition for restaurants that exhibit a high standard of cuisine, demonstrating skilful technique, quality ingredients, and a commitment to delivering a memorable dining experience.

Praised

The pub’s February menu was highly praised and features starters such as the Twice Baked Burwash Rose Soufflé, Braised Pork Cheeks, and Potted Trout, with Braised Beef Brisket, Maple Smoked Parsnip, or Poached Cod available for the main course.

For dessert, the choices on offer include the

Tropical Fruit Mess and the Dark Chocolate and Coffee Pave.

The pub, located in a 16th-century building in the heart of the village of Ticehurst, has also recently been included in the 2024 Michelin Guide.

Reflecting on its recent accolade, The Bell in Ticehurst General Manager, Daniel Courtney said: “To receive such recognition from the AA for the second year in a row is such a positive statement. Our success is solely down to our incredible hardworking team, without whom we are nothing.

“Our Head Chef Mark Charker has made consistency the key byword in the kitchen and to gain two Rosettes from the AA affirms this.

“We are also doubling down and growing the business at a time when pubs are shutting at such an incredible rate. We want to be the change and that glimmer of hope to show that hospitality is alive and well,” added Daniel.

I’m fairly certain that school education is a whole better now than it was when I was there in the 70’s.

There’s not as much focus on technical and business skills as I would like, and we don’t prepare youngsters well for a life of managing their own money, however, what we do teach is more effectively taught.

And yet, many business leaders say that the young people joining the employment market are ill-equipped to cope with the rigours of working life. This ‘accusation’ is most commonly thrown at the Gen Z’s, those that started school after the turn of the millennium. It’s said, among other things, that they’re not patient enough, they move jobs too often, they won’t pick up the phone to anybody and they answer back all the time.

Yes, Gen Z’s are different, however, every generation is different to the one that went before. It’s not that long ago that all men wore suits and ties and worked in the office 9-5 every day.

Friends stick together to launch HRT patch spray

By Madeleine Anderson BUSINESS

partners Amy Simpson and Lisa Farley were tired of having hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patch residue sticking to their skin, so they decided to create their own cosmetic product.

Just eight weeks after the launch of Nudi Spray, which retails at £15 for a starter kit, the good friends say they have ‘sold hundreds’ of cans of the product and received high praise from satisfied customers – including Davina McCall.

The pair, both 51, first came up with the idea in 2022 when comparing ‘sticky patch stories’ after their summer holidays.

While HRT patches were relieving their symptoms, the leftover glue residue was bringing a new irritation. Among friends, the pair heard the same stories over and over, with some women sharing stories of using peanut butter, mayonnaise, or WD-40 in last-ditch attempts to remove left-over glue.

After sourcing the right ingredients, Amy and

Lisa created Nudi Spray, a UK-made 50ml spray of a cruelty-free, medical-grade solution which quickly removes patch glue.

Fitness expert and local resident Davina McCall recently took to social media to praise the product, saying: “A mate of mine has made something revolutionary… it is amazing!”

Conversation

Speaking to the Times, Amy said: “It was great to have Davina’s support because she is the queen of all things menopause!

“For menopausal women, we were given half the solution, we got a huge relief in HRT but then we were left with this glue all over our bodies. Menopause is an enormous conversation and it’s only getting louder. Patch wearers should be seen, and we shouldn’t be hiding.

“We are not unclean, we have been given this problem and we haven’t been given the solution, until now!”

For more info visit: nudispray.com

For instance, does your business have updated versions of these policies and statements?

- People Vision – what’s your contract with these people?

Being different doesn’t necessarily mean being worse, and others would say that this generation has suffered hugely from the COVID-19 pandemic.

More importantly, they’re not going anywhere, and they’re not going to turn into you, so without pandering to them, we must meet them halfway.

- Ethics Policy – what are the red lines in your business?

- Flexible Working Policy – what do you expect from them?

- Mental Health Policy – are you offering free counselling and therapy?

None of this means giving up on what has always worked well in business. It hasn’t stopped being important for you to promote teamwork, peer group learning and resilience. If you can create a safe environment within which talented young people can grow and thrive, then you’ll attract and retain more of them, giving you a commercial advantage.

If you’d like some help with this, do please get in touch to arrange a FREE initial meeting with no obligation to move to the next stage. Let’s work together to help you be the best you can.

AMY SIMPSON AND LISA FARLEY

Pictures: Amy Simpson

“Love Local” for a Fantastic Mother’s Day

A curated selection of places to eat and gift ideas to say Thank You to someone special this Mother’s Day!

GIFTS

Receiving beautiful gifts, homewares, beauty products, cosy throws and stunning flowers always evokes pleasure on Mother’s Day; Tunbridge Wells’ retailers offer some of the very best products out there from our local independents and big brand names.

The Cove bouquets from £40, 94 High Street, TN1 1YF

The Cotswold Company, 95-97 Mount (Wool throws starting at £65)

Dee Airey Photography, The Pantiles (Mother’s Day Mini-shoot 2-3 March £105)

Biggie & Best, 48 Mount Pleasant Helios, 89 - 97 Camden Road

Le Petit Jardin, 14-16 Chapel Place

The Body Shop

JEWELLERY

Tunbridge Wells has a wealth of fantastic jewellers, why not find something really unique that they will love? From statement pieces to repurposed antiques, diamonds to costume jewellery - there is something to suit all tastes and all budgets.

Pandora, Royal Victoria Place (Oversized Flower Charm £90)

Mark Adam, 68 High Street Collins, 78 High Street

The Silver Sheep 10-12 Chapel Place (Silver Star Bracelet £89)

#Lovelocal

Support Tunbridge Wells Businesses

Supported By:

Celebrate with a thoughtful hand-picked gift that you know she will really love.

It could be a new dress, a gorgeous handbag, a cosy jumper or a pretty scarf, if it’s been chosen by you, she is guaranteed to love it.

Why not follow us on Social Media to keep up with the latest news in the town centre @rtwtogether

@Royal Tunbridge Wells Together @rtwtogether

If there was only one day in the year when you should go out for lunch or dinner, this is the day!

Give that special someone a break and treat the family to a lovely, relaxed meal together, enjoying quality time as a family is definitely guaranteed to bring lots of joy!

Tunbridge Wells has so many great restaurants and cafes to choose from whatever your budget, and here are just a few of them offering something special for Mother’s Day this year!

The Brasserie OWP 3 courses for £35 Sunday 10th March 12 - 5pm

The Spa Hotel 2 courses for £37, 3 courses £45, Afternoon Tea £35

Hattons in the Pantiles Afternoon Tea £25pp from midday on Mother’s Day

The TW Hotel 3 Courses for £36 Sunday 10th March

Oliver Bonas, Royal Victoria Place (Makeup bags from £16.50)

Mint Velvet (new store)

31 High Street TN1 1XL

Jigsaw 46 Mount Pleasant, TN1 1RB (Silver crossbody bag £145)

Renaissance Royal Victoria Place (20% off all weekend)

Hoopers 2-12 Mount Pleasant Road, TN1 1QT French Connection, Royal Victoria Place (dress shown £95)

Charlottes in The Pantiles Sunday Brunch & complimetary Bellini or Mimosa

The Claremont Free glass of Fizz for every Mum having lunch on 10th March

Hotel Du Vin Sunday Lunch from £34.95 including a glass of champagne for Mum

The Ivy Breakfast & All Day Dining with specially crafted cocktails (9 & 10 March)

The Barn 3 Courses plus Coffee £32.95

Please contact your chosen venue directly to Pre-book

To view the current RTW Guide for more information please scan this QR code

FOOD

FASHION

Schubert concert to deliver authentic experience with historic instruments

By Ben Cornwell

TUNBRIDGE WELLS is set to welcome an intimate concert celebrating the music and repertoire of renowned Austrian composer Franz Schubert and his friend Franz Paul Lachner on March 24.

The 3pm concert will be performed by horn virtuoso Ursula Paludan Monberg, soprano Kate Semmens and the fortepiano-playing Steven Devine in the music room at Waterdown House on Frant Road.

Steven Devine, former curator of the Finchcocks Musical Museum in Goudhurst, which previously housed a significant collection of historical keyboard instruments, told the Times that the concert is ‘special’ due to the period instruments for the event being similar to what ‘Schubert and Lachner would have known and used’.

‘There’s nowhere else you can use instruments like these with such a free and easy sort of access’

Following the Finchcocks Musical Museum’s closure in 2015, owners Richard and Katrina Burnett kept 14 of their favourite instruments dating from the 17th to mid-19th centuries and built a music-room extension onto Waterdown House on Frant Road, so they can be displayed and used regularly by keyboard players, professionals, amateurs, students and children. Steven commented on the intimate nature of the venue for their upcoming event. He said: “People often see a classical concert as a rather standoffish experience where people

sit, and observe a stage in a large room.

“But this is a much more intimate sort of setup to your usual classical concerts. It’s a very small music room at Waterdown House, so it’ll seat around 40 people.

“This is exactly the sort of size and space that Schubert would have known for this sort of repertoire,” Steven explained.

“He was famous for putting on these evenings called ‘Schubertiade’ where his friends and people who he knew very well would get together and they’d listen to his latest songs and there’d be lots of chatter and lots of sort of readings and things like that. So, with our intimate concert we’re trying to recreate some of the spirit of these events.”

Following the passing of co-owner Richard

Burnett in 2022, the venue slowed its intake, but they are now hoping to welcome more people back for concerts in 2024 and to continue to use the historical instrument collection as a valuable teaching resource.

Steven added: “There’s nowhere else you can use instruments like these with such a free and easy sort of access. So hopefully we can use it a lot more as an educational resource for not just for specialists but also non-specialists as well, so they can really get under the skin of questions such as, ‘What did Mozart’s piano really sound like?’”

There are a few tickets still available for the event on March 24 at: eventbookings.com/b/ event/an-die-musik-songs-and-piano-musicby-schubert-and-lachner

Redrow South East launches new £8,000 community fund

PREMIUM housebuilder Redrow South East has launched its first official community fund to help support work led by groups, schools, organisations and individuals across Kent. The support is available for any local group, from craft clubs to sports teams, with a pot of up to £8,000 ready to be gifted throughout 2024.

Ben Fewsdale, Managing Director at Redrow South East, said: “We are really excited to have launched our first community fund, which forms part of our commitment to supporting local infrastructure and creating thriving communities both within our developments and in the wider area.”

The deadline for applications is April 15. For more information visit: redrow.co.uk

Arts Society’s Edward Hopper workshop this Saturday

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Arts Society (TWAS) is beginning a fresh month of events this Saturday (March 2) with a workshop inspired by the work of American artist Edward Hopper.

The event is open to artists of all abilities, although attendees are expected to bring their own materials.

The all-day workshop will be held at Sussex House on The Pantiles from 10am to 4pm at £25 for members and £35 for non-members.

For more information about the workshop and other events in March visit: rtwas.org

URSULA PALUDAN MONBERG

STEVEN DEVINE

KATE SEMMENS

Pay as you feel café celebrates busy start as community hub

By Madeleine Anderson

CHARLIE’S Angels Kitchens on Camden Road has enjoyed major success since opening its doors on January 5, with volunteers and customers regularly filling the bustling ‘pay as you feel’ café.

Café founder Charlie Moore says the early success is down to the ‘family’ of volunteers who help organise food drop-offs, serve customers and work in the kitchen.

“It’s been amazing, I love it so much and I believe in it so much. The volunteers that I’ve got just fill me with joy every day, they’re amazing people. Without the volunteers we wouldn’t be here,” she said.

Charlie and her volunteer ‘angels’ cook with supplies from food waste charities FareShare and The Gleaning Network, serving toasties, pastries and hot meals using seasonal and surplus produce that would otherwise go to waste.

“People who knew food waste was an

issue didn’t know how to access it, so we’ve just formed a conduit for people to access the great food, that shouldn’t be wasted but usually is,” Charlie explained.

Prices are organised in a tiered bronze, silver and gold system ranging from £5 to £20, but all customers are welcome to pay whatever they can, with the option to eat for free.

Friendly

“Everyone is really nice and friendly, we don’t even look at the price people choose to pay,” said Volunteer Vicki Titley.

For those wanting to pay that little bit extra, there’s a ‘suspended drinks’ board which allows customers to buy a soft or hot drink for somebody who cannot afford to buy their own.

With gender-neutral bathrooms, free nappies and sanitary products, Charlie has made sure that nobody will feel excluded from the space.

“I don’t want there to be any shame, if

I could get rid of anything it would be shame,” she said.

Seven weeks in, Charlie already has plans to expand the café’s community role, including training students from Oaks Specialist College in Tonbridge.

The students, aged 16 to 18, will soon be working at the café once a week for a full year, developing cooking, cleaning, and customer service skills in preparation for future employment.

Their lessons will be run on the café’s third floor, which Charlie is currently looking for donations to re-carpet.

The café is also set to hold male mental health evenings with ‘Dad la Soul’, working to tackle social isolation amongst dads.

In its first event outside of Worthing, the non-profit group will run social and support evenings in the café.

“There’s really something here for everyone. This to me is just giving an opportunity to people who are struggling, because they’re joining the cause, they’re reducing food waste,” Charlie said.

Group plans regular LGBT+ events for Tunbridge Wells

By Lucy Smith

A MAN from Tunbridge Wells has established the town’s first LGBT+ social group, bringing people together from across the Borough.

Dan Rogers, who grew up between Ticehurst and Tunbridge Wells, returned to the town from Birmingham in 2021 and was disappointed to find that there were no LGBT+ venues nearby.

Residents

With the help of a friend, he started a Facebook group and soon began organising social events for Tunbridge Wells’ LGBT+ residents.

“When I first moved here I didn’t know anyone, and although I’ve got friends in London I didn’t always want to go out to the London scene – I wanted somewhere local,” Dan explained.

The 49-year-old started by organising smaller events like picnics in the park and group dinners, gradually building a community and gaining new attendees.

On February 17, the group’s first big

event was held with a night at The Royal Wells Hotel on Mount Ephraim.

“We had 30 people turn up, which I was quite happy with – everyone gave such amazing feedback.

“I never expected that I would be doing anything like this, I was a bit hesitant but knowing there was London just up the road I thought, I’ll go for it.

“It was the best night on the LGBT scene that I’ve had in a very long time,” Dan said.

The event, which had around 30 attendees from across Kent, is now scheduled to take place monthly, with The Royal Wells Hotel allowing Dan to use a room free of charge.

Pension income needed to retire jumps-so is your pension pot on track?

On the 7th of February the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association revealed that a single person now needs an astonishing £31,300 a year for a comfortable retirement. The rising cost of living has added nearly a third to the amount of money retirees need to keep up their current lifestyle.

The figures compiled by the pensions industry body calculate the cost of a basic, moderate and comfortable retirement for individuals and couples, excluding housing costs and after tax.

With this significant jump it has never been more important to make sure your pension pot is on track. Here are four top tips to help you achieve a comfortable retirement.

Increase pension contributions

One way to increase your pension is to pay more money in. The earlier you start paying into a pension, the more time your money has to build and grow. It’s usually a good idea to pay more into your pension, as the tax relief is generous and will give your savings an immediate boost. You could also pay into a personal pension as well as any work scheme, as long as you’re happy not being able to access until your 55 or 57 from 2028.

Use salary sacrifice

Your employer may decide to give you the option to make pension contributions through a salarysacrifice scheme. This is where you give up part of your pay, bonus, and in return your company puts the sum ‘sacrificed’ into your pension along with its own contribution to the scheme. The benefit of this arrangement is that it reduces your overall gross salary. This in turn reduces the amount you pay in income tax and national insurance. Your employer will also pay lower national insurance contributions and it may pass this saving onto your pension, giving it an extra boost.

Review your pensions

If you have worked for different employers, it’s likely you will have amassed a number of different pension pots. If you want to know if they are still cost effective and meeting your objectives, you should take regulated financial advice to understand this and whether the existing pensions have any valuable benefits attached to them.

Check what funds your pension is invested in

Dan acknowledged that club nights can be daunting, but explained that the venue has room for people to sit and chat if dancing isn’t for them.

“In the past few months, we’ve also had people who are shy and nervous who ask to meet before the event. We come and meet them, introduce them to some friends, and reassure them by doing that,” he added.

“It really is a safe place and a haven as there’s nothing else like it around here,” Dan said.

The group’s next club night is scheduled for March 22. For more information, visit: facebook.com/ groups/1015002949337672

The majority of schemes allow you to check online where your money is invested and how your investments are performing. If you are paying into a pension through your employer, you are likely to be invested in the default fund. This offers the advantages that your money is invested straight away in assets such as shares, and that a manager will look after your investments. However, default funds are designed for the needs of the average scheme member – not the individual – and you don’t choose the assets, sectors or countries where your money is invested.

Depending on factors such as your investment principles, age and attitude to risk, you may find that the default option is not suitable for you. There will be other funds to choose from in a workplace scheme and these are worth considering. For those saving into a private pension, the same principles apply, so check your investments are diversified across different asset classes and take account of your timeframe to retirement.

To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Amanda at: amanda.redman@sjpp.co.uk.

DAN ROGERS

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: Café founder Charlie Moore (left) and volunteer Vicki Titley

Alan Bates tells Government to pay up over Horizon IT scandal

FORMER sub postmaster and lead campaigner Alan Bates has told MPs that the Government should ‘get on and pay people’ amid continued fall-out from the Horizon IT scandal.

Speaking to the Business and Trade Committee yesterday, Mr Bates said that the Post Office should be ‘sold to someone like Amazon for £1’ as he described the organisation as a ‘dead duck’ that is ‘going to be a money pit for the taxpayer in the years to come’.

The campaigner led a group of 555 subpostmasters who took the Post Office to the High Court over the scandal, which was settled in December 2019.

Compensation

His story recently became the subject of an ITV drama titled Mr Bates vs The Post Office, starring actor Toby Jones.

The Horizon IT scandal saw more than 700 subpostmasters prosecuted by the Post Office and handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as Fujitsu’s faulty Horizon system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches.

Hundreds of subpostmasters are still awaiting compensation despite the Government announcing that those who have had convictions quashed are eligible for £600,000 payouts.

Mr Bates explained how he had considered getting all the former subpostmasters involved

in the initial High Court case to ‘stand as MPs when the next election comes’, adding: “Then we’ll sort it out once and for all.”

Questioned on whether he believed the Government had got a grip of the redress process, Mr Bates said: “No, I’m afraid not – it’s very disappointing.

“This has been going on for years, as you well know, and I can’t see any end to it.”

Asked if he believed that any change of chairman or chief executive at the Post Office would change how the organisation approached financial redress for subpostmasters, Mr Bates told MPs: “I think over the years I’ve been dealing with Post Office, the culture has always been Post Office.

“It hasn’t changed, it’s been the same for donkey’s years – it will not change and you cannot change it,” he said.

Ministers refuse to call Anderson comments ‘Islamophobic’

SENIOR Conservatives MPs are facing mounting pressure to describe Lee Anderson’s attack on Sadiq Khan as ‘Islamophobic’ as the row over his comments continues.

Ministers repeatedly declined to use the term to describe the former Tory deputy chairman’s comments, with Home Office minister Michael Tomlinson forced to deny that he and his colleagues had been instructed not to use the word after refusing multiple times to say what had been wrong with Mr Anderson’s comments.

Unacceptable

Facing questions from broadcasters yesterday, Mr Tomlinson refused to explain why he thought Mr Anderson’s comments were ‘wrong’, with LBC host Nick Ferrari terminating their interview early saying he was ‘unable to answer a question’. His Home Office colleague Tom Pursglove also refused to use the term, telling Times Radio: “I don’t think Lee personally is racist but what he said was unacceptable.”

The Prime Minister and others have condemned Mr Anderson’s comments, in which he claimed ‘Islamists’ had ‘got control’ of the Mayor of London, as ‘wrong’ but have stopped short of calling them ‘Islamophobic’.

Their reluctance to refer to ‘Islamophobia’ has been criticised by Labour as ‘weak’, with one frontbencher saying the Prime Minister was ‘in hock’ to ‘a strange coalition of MPs’.

Speaking to GB News on Monday Mr Anderson said: “When you think you are right you should never apologise because to do so would be a sign of weakness.”

Prince William pulls out of memorial service due to ‘personal matter’

PRINCE William unexpectedly pulled out of a reading at the memorial service for the late King Constantine of Greece, which took place yesterday.

The service was remembering King Constantine, William’s godfather, who died last year in January.

King Charles, who is being treated for cancer, was also unable to attend the service.

There are no further details of the ‘personal matter’ that kept the Prince of Wales from attending the service, but royal sources have indicated there is no cause for alarm.

Prince William’s wife Catherine, who is recovering from abdominal surgery carried out last month, is continuing to do well, says Kensington Palace.

UK police charge three men with far-right terror offences

THREE men have been charged with preparing an act of terrorism following a police investigation into suspected ‘extreme rightwing activity.’

Counter Terrorism Policing North East said the three men were arrested at their homes on February 20.

Brogan Stewart and Marco Pitzettu, both 24, and Christopher Ringrose, 33, are expected to appear in court next Tuesday, March 5.

A 46-year-old man from Leicester was also arrested as part of the investigation and later released without charge.

Picture: House of Commons/UK Parliament

BBC sorry over handling of Huw Edwards complaint

THE BBC has apologised for how it handled a complaint about former presenter Huw Edwards.

Allegations about his behaviour were made in May 2023 but did not reach senior managers until 6 July.

The corporation said the complaint was not ‘escalated quickly enough’ and that it has now changed its processes.

An independent report by a professional services firm said a complaint by the family of a young person was made to the BBC on 18 May 2023.

The report explained that the initial contact by the family was supposed to be escalated to the relevant regional operations security manager, but this did not happen.

The complainant was signposted to audience services, however, the day after they made the complaint.

But the case was not logged on the BBC’s case management system so there ‘was no

opportunity for wider visibility of the case within the BBC.’

‘There was no documented process for contact with the complainant and/or follow up’, the report noted.

The BBC said it had already made improvements to its non-editorial complaints process but that it had further plans for ‘greater consistency’ across teams, regardless of the route by which the complaints are received and reviewed.

Adding that it would make better use of technology to ensure there is ‘a complete picture of all cases’.

The Sun Newspaper had published claims about a BBC News presenter paying a young person for sexually explicit photos.

On July 23 2023, Huw Edward’s wife Vicky Flind, who named her husband as the man at the centre of the allegations, said he would respond once he is well enough.

Crooked House owners ordered to rebuild famous ‘wonky’ pub

circumstances around the blaze continues, and anyone with information is urged to contact the force.

South Staffordshire

The owners have 30 days to appeal and the notice must be complied with within three years.

Demolished

The historic West Midlands pub, in Himley, near Dudley, was demolished without permission two days after it was gutted by a fire on August 5 last year.

If work is not completed within the time limit, the local authority can prosecute for failure to comply with the notice, it added.

A Staffordshire Police investigation into the

The force previously said that it is treating the blaze as a suspected arson attack, with five men and one woman having been arrested in connection with the fire.

South Staffordshire Council said it had engaged with the owners since the blaze but had ‘reached a point’ where the enforcement order was ‘considered necessary’.

Council Leader Roger Lees said: “A huge amount of time and resources have been put into investigating the unauthorised demolition of the Crooked House.

“We have not taken this action lightly, but we believe that it is right to bring the owners, who demolished the building without consent, to account and we are committed to do what we can to get the Crooked House rebuilt.”

Picture: Nick Malsen/Alamy

Tom Mobbs

Conservative Party

Conservatives will put people first in housing plans

THIS year, housebuilding will be much discussed. In an area like ours, which has a beautiful natural environment, new development must be done sensitively, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is in place. When he was Minister of State, our MP, Greg Clark made a historic change when he introduced the concept of Neighbourhood Plans and made them a reality. Finally, parish and town councils could set out how they want their local community to develop. They have been a

‘Conservatives fully support every community that wants a Neighbourhood Plan and will ensure that they are respected by TWBC’

huge success, and we are proud that our local communities like Paddock Wood, Pembury, Goudhurst, Hawkhurst, Brenchley & Matfield, Lamberhurst and Horsmonden have either adopted or are working on a Neighbourhood Plan. Conservatives fully support every community that wants a Neighbourhood Plan and will ensure that they are respected by TWBC. We won’t see local efforts ignored or overridden.

Local Conservatives insist on Greg’s ‘I before E’ rule: infrastructure should be provided before any planning permission for expansion is approved. If the Council fails to require this we’ll see longer waits for GP appointments, children unable to get local school places, water facilities overwhelmed, roads congested and rat runs ruining the tranquillity (and safety) of our villages.

The latest version of the proposed Local Plan falls short of delivering sufficient infrastructure. New road schemes and schools

have been dropped, as have new leisure facilities – like the now-shelved Paddock Wood Sports Hub. The proposed Plan does not provide an adequate housing supply. If passed, there will be an immediate ‘call for sites’ meaning that developers will put a blight over plots in every village and town in the Borough – expect Tudeley Garden Village to be re-submitted.

No respect has been shown to rural communities. Paddock Wood Town Council weren’t consulted on revisions to the Local

Plan. Parish Councillors in Brenchley & Matfield and Pembury found out that a proposal had been quietly sneaked in to restrict access to the A21 at Kipping’s Cross, resulting in an extra 39 minutes of traffic at peak times. It was only when they blew the whistle, backed by local Conservatives, that this was taken out.

Dialogue

That is no way to run a Borough Council. The least we expect from those making decisions is dialogue to understand the infrastructure needs. But the current Lib-Dem-led coalition is not a council that listens.

From parking fees in Dunorlan Park, earmarking cherished assets for disposal and ignoring requests from rural areas for parishsized wards, to fleecing drivers for over £1million in fines outside the Town Hall. I’m sure they were glad when they couldn’t ‘consult’ on the purchase of the leasehold of Royal Victoria Place. This Borough Council is remote from residents.

Development works when you work with local communities, not cut them out. By championing and respecting Neighbourhood Plans and insisting on infrastructure before expansion, Conservative councillors will promote local communities, not ignore them.

Tom Mobbs has lived in Matfield for the past 20 years and is a Conservative candidate in the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council elections in May. He is a Paddock Wood Town Councillor and will continue being a voice for younger residents in the Borough.

And another thing…

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

Council takes women’s safety very seriously

As Chair of TWBC’s Licensing Committee I feel I must respond to the recent Cllrs article ‘Standing together for Women’s Safety’ the Times of Tunbridge Wells, 21 February 2024.

I am sure that local taxi drivers reading it would feel that the public are unaware of the requirements imposed on them by the Council as a condition of their licence.

Public safety is paramount and taxi drivers have a duty of care and therefore as part of the TWBC licensing process, applicants and existing drivers are subject to rigorous checks before a new licence or renewal licence is issued.

If a passenger feels that something has happened in a taxi that they are unhappy with (that might not be a criminal matter), the passenger is well within their rights to complain to the Council as the licensing authority. I would strongly urge passengers to

Driving me potty

I refer to the ‘Nine cars left stranded’ item in last week’s Times and this had a familiar ring to it! I had the misfortune to encounter a large pothole in Frant on 23rd May 2023, which ruined my tyre and alloy wheel!

After considerable prevarication and unwillingness to compensate me for the replacement tyre, which eventually came via the Small Claims Court, but East Sussex Highways still have not compensated me for my buckled wheel, leaving me hundreds of pounds out of pocket! Disgraceful!

Martin Dawes

Pothole pandemonium

Thanks to Ben Cornwell for drawing attention to the chaos caused by the huge pothole on the A267, southbound from Tunbridge Wells to Frant. I would like to correct the response from East Sussex Highways which suggests that they had an answerphone available for messages ‘when the Duty Officer is busy’.

There was NO answerphone available, only a message which said they were not answering calls to that number. No opportunity whatsoever to leave a message or contact them.

It would be interesting to know what East Sussex Highways understand by the concept 24/7 Emergency hotline.

Jutta Wrobel

Focus on the real issues

Further to the piece from Madeleine Anderson the Times re pavement parking (February 21).

If everyone parked on the road instead of partially on the pavement how many roads would become inaccessible to emergency vehicles? How many mirrors would be knocked off parked cars?

Are the Council going to pay for the damage?

In the article it is all well and good stating that a driver should find somewhere else to park if it blocks up some of the pavement, but why should you not be able to park outside your own house?

As stated, walking and cycling in the real world would be ok, but how can you cycle to get your weekly shop, or walk to the nearest supermarket and then carry your shopping back home, as a lot of buses do not run any more where people live in outside villages.

Perhaps if the Council concentrated on what the voters wanted, instead of pet projects that they all sit around a table discussing, perhaps Tunbridge Wells would be a better place to visit.

do this as officers will investigate as the Council takes safety very seriously. Where evidence is provided, the Licensing SubCommittee will take appropriate action, this could include suspension or revocation of the licence, or the offending driver may be prosecuted.

Inappropriate or aggressive behaviour should be reported to the police immediately. The licensing authority takes any complaint about a

Get a Grip Tunbridge Wells Council and concentrate on the more important issues.

Mrs L Holman

Pavement parking can work

It is clearly appropriate to allow all legitimate pavement users obstruction-free access, but a blanket ban on all pavement parking will create far more difficulty and inconvenience than it might solve. Expecting drivers to simply ‘find somewhere else to park’ – as mooted by a shoulder-shrugging Councillor (Times, February 21) – is unrealistic to say the least; where could all the displaced vehicles go immediately after the ban starts? In most cases, not into the next road or anywhere else reasonably accessible. There would clearly be a major knock-on effect in any area with several neighbouring narrow roads. Those who are anti-car would obviously like to see displaced vehicles (and many others) disappear completely from our roads, but that could not happen overnight, if at all.

It would be perfectly possible in many narrower roads to allow vehicles to park on one side (or possibly both) with two wheels on the pavement, whilst still giving an adequate pavement width. This is required (not just permitted) by signage in many London roads. The difficulty is that signage and enforcement will cost a significant amount of money which councils simply do not have – or spent as a priority on pothole repairs before introducing more motoring restrictions.

Nick Stanbury

The country needs investment

Britain is in a real mess. You have to be incredibly lucky to find an NHS dentist, while millions of us are still waiting for NHS treatment. That’s before we even get to unaffordable energy bills, or councils going bust.

The government needs to deliver a budget that works for people in our area and breathes life back into Britain.

Rather than rumoured tax cuts – which tend to benefit the very wealthiest – the Chancellor should make the tax system fairer to invest in this country.

He could raise tens of billions of pounds by closing unfair tax loopholes and ensuring that super-rich people and companies pay what’s fair.

This way, tax can be used for good, so that everyone benefits. Will the Chancellor do the right thing for once?

Diana Allchorne

taxi driver seriously and a licence may be suspended or revoked where information received raises grave doubts as to the fitness of a driver, regardless of whether criminal charges are brought.

All investigations are dealt with in accordance with the Council’s Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Policy and I welcome the additional signage in the back of ‘taxis’ and anticipate this will become a mandatory requirement in the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Policy in due course.

As chair of the Licensing Committee, I reject any normalisation of violence against women and girls in all forms.

Councillor Rodney Atkins

Independent for Paddock Wood East. Chair of Licensing Committee

Materinity unit deserves credit

I was saddened to read in last week’s Times that the maternity unit at Tunbridge Wells Hospital at Pembury has been rated inadequate.

My daughter had her first baby there in October 2023 and every member of staff she met was kind and very caring.

Every appointment she had staff were extremely professional and nothing was too much bother.

My daughter-in-law also had three babies in the maternity unit and again, everyone was kind, caring and considerate. The unit was extremely clean, and the food was faultless.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved with the maternity unit, from consultants to domestic staff – you all do an amazing job

Josephine Ridger

Customer is right

I read with interest the letter from Lucy Steer about shops displaying items at one price and attempting to charge a different amount at the till.

Many years ago, at an ironmongers shop in Tonbridge, I had a similar experience. An item was priced in the window at one price, but I was to be charged a higher price at the till.

Like Ms Steer, I protested, and the manager explained that the window dresser only attended once a week and the higher price was valid. Disputing this, I pointed out that it was against the Trade Descriptions Act to act in such a way.

Again like Ms Steer, I declined to purchase the item and reported the shop to the local Trading Standards office. Subsequently I received a letter telling me that I was correct in that the lower price must be observed. The shop was also warned that if they attempted to do the same in future a prosecution would be considered. The shop no longer trades. I wonder why?

Jim Cooper

Make an offer

I sympathise with Lucy Steer (Customer always right, February 21) but regret the price tag on an article in a shop window or on a shop shelf is an invitation to buy and not an offer on the part of the vendor and it is open to the proposed buyer to make an offer for it. If that offer is refused – in this case because the vendor requires a higher offer – then there is no contract.

Janet Lazell

THE TIMES NEEDS YOU:

The Times of Tunbridge Wells would like to hear from readers across the Borough. This is an opportunity to share with us any local events happening in your community. We’re keen to receive information on anything exciting going on in your village or town…

Whether you sing in a church choir, play a sport, volunteer for a charity or organise a local coffee morning or a community cinema night, we want to hear about it. Perhaps your town or village holds a weekly farmers’ market, or your church hall plays host to an amateur dramatics society or dance troupe. If so, it’s about time you had the spotlight and we are to help.

From theatre, dance and live music showcasing the breadth of local talent available to us across the Borough, to food larders and charity events that demonstrate our community spirit, there’s lots to promote and also celebrate – including the local heroes who make it all happen behind the scenes.

We are so fortunate that the Tunbridge Wells Borough is made up of a great many small but mighty communities with largerthan-life social calendars. No matter how big or small your event might be, please get in touch and we will endeavour to include it in a borough-wide round-up of what’s on in and around Tunbridge Wells.

To tell us about your event or initiative, please email us at communitynews@ timesoftunbridgwells.co.uk with your full name, the name, date and time of the event you would like to tell us about, and a short description, and we will try our best to include them all.

‘I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed to lead such a wonderful school as Benenden...’

Benenden announces appointment of new Head to lead the school into its second century

IT HAS recently been announced that Benenden School’s Head, Samantha Price, will leave her role at the end of this academic year.

The all-girl independent school’s Chair of Governors Anna Birkett told pupils, parents and staff that Ms Price would be stepping down at the end of the summer term after ten years at the helm of the school, which has just celebrated its centenary. She will be replaced by Rachel Bailey in September.

‘This is exciting news for the future of the school but for now it is very much a case of business as usual at Benenden’

Ms Birkett said: “I am delighted to let you know that, following a thorough recruitment process, the Governing Council has appointed Ms Rachel Bailey as the next Head of Benenden. She will take up her position from September 2024.

“Rachel is an experienced educational leader in both the independent and state sectors, with a clear track record of delivering a holistic education centred on strong academics while building the confidence, resilience and self-esteem that is so necessary for life and work in the 21st century.”

She added that Ms Bailey is currently Head of Senior School at

HEAD START: Benenden School and (inset) Rachel Bailey

Royal Masonic School for Girls, having previously been its Senior Deputy Academic. Prior to that she was Assistant Head Teacher Academic and Head of Sixth Form at John Hampden Grammar School.

“Rachel attended Badminton School for Girls and Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Economics from the University of York and completed her teacher training at the University of Warwick.

Rachel is also an accomplished musician and music aficionado, and is passionate about equestrianism and reading.”

Samantha Price’s decision to leave Benenden was announced in June last year which led to the school, which counts the Princess Royal among its alumni, saying the Governing Council would be looking for ‘an outstanding candidate with the experience and qualities which will be needed to lead Benenden successfully into its second century’. In her letter, Ms Birkett added: “We are confident we have delivered on this aim with our appointment of Rachel. As you would expect, this vacancy attracted a strong field of candidates and Rachel possesses the expertise

and vision to build on Sam’s enormously successful decade as Head of Benenden.”

Commenting on her appointment, Rachel Bailey said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed to lead such a wonderful school as Benenden as it moves into its second century at the forefront of girls’ education in this country and, increasingly, internationally.

“I am very much looking forward to getting to know the girls and the entire Benenden community over the coming months.”

Opportunity

“Benenden is clearly a remarkable school and I am excited about working with such an outstanding staff body to continue to build on Sam Price’s success.”

A Benenden spokesperson told the Times that Ms Bailey will be visiting the school informally throughout the next two terms.

“She will be working closely with Samantha and the Senior Leadership Team to ensure a smooth transition.”

Signing off her letter, Anna Birkett said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sam for her steadfast support during the process to appoint her successor. Sam has been as keen as the Governing Council that she should eventually hand over to an exceptional candidate to continue the Benenden legacy.

“This is exciting news for the future of the school but for now it is very much a case of business as usual at Benenden. There is an enormous amount ahead of us in the coming months, not least the remaining events to mark the school’s centenary.”

Make 2024 your year and learn a new language.

& French to

Sign Language you’ll find a course that’s perfect for you.

EATING OUT

Penshurst perfection

The Leicester Arms reopens after a luxurious refurbishment

ENTERTAINING Table matters

We meet tablescaping and hosting experts SET

FINE WINE Vintage England

A preview of the Wine Garden of England Summer Festtival

focus on: FOOD & DRINK

Wednesday

elcome to your new SO Food & Drink supplement. Every month we’ll bring you all the latest news and reviews of the area’s hospitality hotspots. This month we serve up a feast of new relaunches, which include the stunning makeover of The Leicester Arms pub in Penshurst and the reopening of one of the area’s oldest pubs: The White Hart in Brasted. We also take a trip further afield to meet the custodians of St Leonard’s in West Malling and discover the art of tablescaping courtesy of local business SET…

W a sense of A sense of history

Taste the difference

Now in their 19th year, the Taste Of Kent Awards (TOKA) celebrate the best food and drink of Kent, shining a spotlight on the region’s excellence in producing, selling and serving fine quality Kentish produce. Open to any food and drink business located in Kent and Medway, the TOKA are the longest-running and most prestigious food and drink awards in the South East. This year the TOKA Food & Drink Product will be judged in Paddock Wood with TOKA judge Michael Eyre, who is also based there and runs Jestic Food Service Solutions, heading up the panel.

Penshurst pub The Leicester Arms has reopened its doors after an extensive refurbishment project which has made it a popular place to drink and dine once again…

Leicester Arms is now one of the area’s must-visit pubs – to dine, drink and stay in - courtesy of the period property’s incredible makeover. Its owner, Brakspear has spent over £1.2million collaborating with their new tenants and operators Little & Large pub company in order to relaunch

The Leicester Arms in Penshurst. The pub closed its doors at the end of last year, promising a big revamp and its custodians have certainly stayed true to their word as the transformation is nothing short of epic.

“We carried out a complete refurbishment, which has transformed the pub, creating open, informal spaces for drinking and dining while retaining the charm and character of the Grade II listed building,” a spokesperson for the Little & Large Pub Company told SO earlier this week.

They added that the extensive refurbishment carried out also involved a ‘major upgrade’ of the establishment’s 11 en-suite bedrooms, in order to offer top-quality, boutique hotel-style accommodation in addition to drinks and dining.

“The menu features dishes from the Robata grill, alongside pub classics and a selection of seasonal dishes. The Sunday menu focuses on roasts, while a prix fixe weekday lunch offers two courses for £25 or three for £30. The Steak Night every Wednesday has quickly become a popular fixture, offering three courses for £30.”

“ We carried out a complete refurbishment which has transformed the pub, creating open, informal spaces for drinking and dining while retaining the charm and character of the Grade II listed building”

The result is a magnificent transformation from run-of-the-mill country pub to a gorgeous and hugely desirable destinationstyle establishment. The décor is considered and chic – and the food and drink elements don’t disappoint either.

“Menus at The Leicester Arms offer delicious, quality seasonal food to suit a range of tastes and occasions, with a focus on seasonality and provenance, showcasing the best of Kentish ingredients sourced from local farms and producers,” adds the pub’s spokesperson.

Little & Large pub company founder Manu Bhatt tells SO: “It’s great to be open again after several months of refurbishment. The pub has been transformed into the warm, inviting space for drinking and dining that we always wanted and, judging by business so far, is also what local customers were looking for.

“We have exciting plans for our outside space and are currently in the process of building an outside kitchen, which will feature a wood-fired oven and some creative al fresco dining areas.

“At Little & Large, our ethos is all about giving our customers the best food and drink in a relaxed environment, with the highest standards of service. That’s what we’re now offering to everyone who comes through the doors of The Leicester Arms, whether they’re popping in for a drink, relaxing over a three-course dinner or staying in one of our beautiful bedrooms,” Manu explained.

The 11 botanically inspired bedrooms, all of which boast a super king bed, luxury linens and toiletries with a few featuring a roll top bath, have been individually designed, giving them a unique character and décor and are so inviting even the most local of The Leicester Arms’ clientele will want to find an excuse to stay overnight…

“With 28 fantastic food and drink categories to choose from including taste and product, hospitality and catering, as well as a range of business development and special category awards, the Taste of Kent Awards celebrate the very best in food and drink from Kent,” Michael says. Entries are now open and close at midnight on March 8 2024. For more information visit: tasteofkentawards.co.uk

Host a roast

The Beacon has told SO that its new private dining experience ‘Sunday Host a Roast’ is proving to be a great success. Guests can book the venue’s dining room and let the staff of this very fine establishment, which is located on Tea Garden Lane, do all the hard work as they dine with family and friends. “Think of it as having all the pleasures of a family and friends gathering without the cooking and washing up,” a Beacon spokesperson tells SO. “Diners can choose one of our private dining rooms and then have their own server to look after you.

Guests can choose from The Beacon’s Card Room (which seats up to 12 guests) or its Billiard Room (seating up to 20 guests). Prices are from £32 per head and include a seasonal pudding. Host a Roast is only available on Sundays. For more info visit: the-beacon.co.uk or call 01892 524252. Alternatively you can email hello@ the-beacon.co.uk

Rising to the occasion

Bijou bakery Halstead has announced that it is coming to Tunbridge Wells. The artisan bakers will take over the former Chuck and Blade premises at 24 Camden Road. It will be officially opening on the weekend of March 23 and 24.

“We are beyond excited and cannot wait to open the doors to you all,” the business announced on Instagram. They also confirmed that all of Halstead Bakery’s production will now move to ‘the mothership’ on Camden Road. Bijou hosts pop-ups at local farmers’ markets and at Water Lane in Hawkhurst, but these will be suspended until the bakery is up and running. The bakery is currently looking to recruit staff so if you are interested do get in touch via their social media platforms @Halstead_Bakery

Dress to impress…

If you’re dining at home instead of out somewhere then don’t think it’s any less of an occasion. Here tablescaping experts SET reveal how you can create a table with real wow factor…

Decorating your table is a bit like decorating your home. The best designs give a hint of your personality and the party that’s going to unfold. If your style is bold and you’re gathering friends for a night of unabashed fun, then include lots of colour and interest in your table. If your taste is a little more refined and it’s a classy evening of fine food and wine, then stick with more neutral tones and elegant tableware.

To help you design your own tablescapes we suggest you consider these points. We’ve focused on a spring table as this is one of our busiest times, and as we all begin to come out of hibernation it’s a wonderful theme for a tablescape.

Here are some simple steps to follow in order to achieve a table that will impress your guests:

Decoration: You can find things around your home to elevate your table. You could use family heirlooms or items picked up on your travels; perhaps some beautiful shells or decorated eggs at Easter. As well as adding an individual touch it’s a good conversation starter. We prefer a more scattered effect rather than having one larger centrepiece which can be overbearing and halt the flow of conversation.

Include something fresh: It feels natural to include something fresh in spring when the world around us is bursting into life. You can never go wrong with flowers and there’s an abundance of them in gardens or to be picked on walks at this time of year; use plenty of bud vases (or old jam jars) of snowdrops or tulips or perhaps some blossom branches. If you fancy something a bit different you could use fruit or vegetables. For a Middle Eastern feast, pomegranates and figs work well or if Mediterranean food’s on the menu some oranges and lemons (with their leaves if you can get them) work beautifully. One of our favourite looks is to

include some pot plants or pots of herbs (which have the added benefit of smelling wonderful).

Atmosphere: In the evening, candlelight (or a cordless lamp) is a non-negotiable for us as everything looks better in low light. But even during the day we often include candles for scent. A small, scented candle makes everything feel a little more luxurious! If you really want to wow your guests, then you could include handpainted candles in your tablescape. We’re running some workshops with amazing local businesswoman, Milly, of Ivy & Arlo where you could make your own! Keep an eye on our Instagram for more information.

And remember that you don’t need to go out and buy new tableware just to fit a theme. It will be the overall effect that people notice and not the individual items. If you do want to invest, then a standout item like a beautiful tablecloth will catch people’s attention – but it doesn’t need to cost a lot.

You can use beautiful fabric as a tablecloth (try the wonderful local business, Haines for smaller pieces of designer fabric at reasonable prices) and the high street has great napkins (try La Redoute or H&M for linen ones). We also have a pick-and-mix service where you can hire individual items to add a bit of pizazz to your existing tableware.

GET SET

ABOUT SET:

We love every aspect of planning a party!

We supply our curated styles and bespoke looks for dinner parties to remember. We can also help plan, coordinate and execute all aspects of larger events. And if you’re interested in learning more about throwing fabulous parties at home, keep an eye on our Instagram and website as we run various workshops throughout the year. We deliver our luxury settings to your home to transform your table and your party. With SET you have the option to rent the complete tabletop: beautiful crockery, glassware, linens, candles, flowers and more, or you can select individual pieces. We also create bespoke designs for events, whether it be an intimate dinner party or a larger celebration. We have recently expanded our services

to include tableware sourcing. Having worked with some of the best contacts in the business we can find you something a bit different to the offerings on the high street at competitive prices. Whether you are looking for a new set of plates or an alternative to the traditional wedding list, we can help.

We also love running workshops to give hosting inspiration. We’ve run tablescaping masterclasses with Jo Malone London and cracker-making at Christmas, and this spring we’re incorporating candle painting into our workshops.

GET IN TOUCH:

Website: set-table.co.uk

Instagram: instagram.com/ set_hosting/ Email hello@set-table.co.uk

SARAH BATTY AND ALEX ELLVER OF SET

Dine in style

Eileen Leahy visited the newly refurbished pub The White Hart in Brasted and was very impressed with how this historic pub has been brought into the 21st century, courtesy of a super-chic makeover of both its charming interiors and its new menu…

If you’re looking to head further afield than Tunbridge Wells on the weekend may I suggest a visit to The White Hart pub in Brasted? Just a short drive up the A21, this historic pub has recently reopened its doors after undergoing an extensive and extremely impressive refurbishment, which has included a complete reworking of the inside layout of this grand pub as well as a fantastic reworking of its menu, too.

It’s the perfect spot to drop into after a spell of browsing Brasted’s famous antique shops or after a long country walk at nearby Toys Hill or Ide Hill. And whether you pull up a stool for a pint at the newly revamped bar area or want to stay longer to dine, I can guarantee that the hospitality, refreshments and all-round ambience that’s on offer here will impress you.

The new interiors are beautifully done – think sumptuous velvet seating, Herringbone wooden flooring, statement lighting and eye-catching artwork – and are highly eclectic too with lots of different looks and seating ‘zones’. If you fancy an intimate diner a deux then why not book one of the establishment’s cosy snugs which are atmospherically lit, but if you’re visiting with friends and family there are lots of alternative options available in the main restaurant and the bar area, as well as the super fancy orangery which is ideal for special occasions.

Sticking with aesthetics: the outside of The White Hart has also had a serious upgrade. The beer garden has been extended and now boasts a very appealing al fresco dining and drinking area – perfect to kick back and relax in once the fine weather is upon us. But given it’s still pretty chilly why not avail of the

“It’s the perfect spot to drop into after a spell of browsing Brasted’s famous antique shops or after a long country walk”

establishment’s huge inglenook fireplace by reserving the huge table – complete with two leather button-back sofas right by it. I challenge you not to want to stay all day as the fire crackles away and the wine flows!

The White Hart’s new and improved menu is just as impressive – and there really is something for everyone’s particular palate. Guests seeking a gourmet epicurean experience will find plenty to feast on – from seared plump scallops, rotisserie pork belly and expertly aged steaks – while those after lighter bites will not be disappointed by the variety of different dishes including sea salt and cracked black pepper squid with pickled ginger mayonnaise and pan-fried king prawns with chilli and feta served alongside a toasted ciabatta slathered in a tangy tomato and chipotle chilli sauce and lemon gremolata.

There’s also a great vegetarian menu, which includes dishes such as whipped goats cheese with beetroot and pear plus plenty of vegan options too including roasted celeriac steak with parsnip puree, exotic mushrooms and caramelised shallots and chargrilled plant-based burgers – oh and I’m pleased to report that prices are good value for money too.

See you there!

3 courses for £35 Mother’s Day Lunch

Sunday 10th March 12pm – 5pm

All the right ingredients

In the new monthly SO Food & Drink supplement we will occasionally be featuring some of our favourite restaurants, food producers and suppliers that are a little further afield. This week we shine a light on St Leonard’s, an impressive restaurant which opened in 2021 and is bringing a taste of contemporary British dining to West Malling…

Located in the pretty market town of West Malling, Kent, St Leonard’s is a modern British restaurant offering seasonal dining from chef Tom Genty and General Manager Terry Brouet.

The elegant, relaxed space was opened in summer 2021, showcasing exciting menus that champion bold British and European flavours, made using the best local produce on the restaurant’s doorstep. It is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

“Having previously worked together in restaurants, Terry and I had always wanted to open a place of our own,” says Tom. “West Malling offered the ideal setting, and 47 Swan Street suited us perfectly for the experience we wanted to create for our discerning guests.”

“We don’t want to dictate what our diners can eat, providing a choice in product and price point, but also ensuring that each dish tells a story that’s quintessentially St Leonard’s”

In the kitchen, Tom’s heartfelt cooking is underpinned by the provenance of the ingredients that he works with. Locally sourced and seasonally-changing dishes span an à la carte, tasting, and set menu, whereas Wednesday steak nights, weekend brunch, and Sunday lunch have proven equally popular. Additionally, a love of fermenting, preserving, and reducing waste ensures a sustainable approach.

“We want to showcase what we do across a variety of experiences, while remaining consistent, and true to who we are and what we do,” Tom continues. “We don’t want to dictate what our diners can eat, providing a choice in product and price point, but also ensuring that each dish tells a story that’s quintessentially St Leonard’s.”

A spacious, stylish dining room and beautiful bar is where Terry oversees service and the front of house. His carefully curated wine list features award-winning English growers, as well as European wines from highly-regarded wineries, cellared in perfect conditions for up to 25 years. Furthermore, a creative cocktail selection includes highlights such as the signature St Leonard’s, St Lucian Rum Punch, Barrel-Aged Negroni, and Chocolate and Hazelnut Martini.

“Our drinks are just as essential to the customer journey as our food,” explains Terry. “As soon as a guest walks through the door, we want them to feel at home, and our beautifully designed interiors provide a sophisticated, comfortable backdrop against which to drink and dine.”

With private hire options readily available, in addition to refurbishment plans to expand this part of the business later in 2024, St Leonard’s is going from strength to strength, becoming a firm favourite with locals, and a destination spot that’s well worth travelling to for visitors from further afield.

“For us, it’s a dream come true to be doing what we’re passionate about in such a stunning corner of Kent,” Terry concludes. “Hospitality is certainly thriving throughout the Garden of England, so it’s an honour and a privilege to put our own stamp on the county’s already vibrant, buoyant industry. We can’t wait for what the future holds, and to welcome many new and familiar faces to St Leonard’s.” stleonardskent.co.uk

“As soon as a guest walks through the door, we want them to feel at home”

Photography: Key & Quill

Looking forward to a vine time…

The third Wine Garden of England Summer Festival takes place on Saturday June 8, with seven wineries participating in a day of tasting and talks. The collective’s brand manager, event organiser and Tunbridge Wells resident, Jo Ginn, tells SO what’s happening at this year’s festival, which will be held at the stunning Jacobean manor house, Chilham Castle…

You’ve probably noticed that English wine is becoming more popular – our sparkling wine is reportedly better than some Champagne, if international awards are anything to go by. If you remember avidly watching Fame when it was a TV series, you may also remember when English wine was truly awful – and you’d probably be reaching for your Nottage Hill oaked Chardonnay to take the taste away.

But why has English wine come so far in the last few years? Jo Ginn, from Wine Garden of England explains: “It’s a combination of climate change, soil and know-how. As the planet has warmed up, the areas where it is possible to ripen the grapes we need for sparkling wine have moved further north, so now Champagne is considered to be too hot, and the South of England is the perfect place.

“We also have some great chalky soil and limestone in the South East, which the vines thrive upon. Winemakers are learning their craft at Plumpton College near Brighton, which is considered the best English-speaking wine university in Europe,” adds Jo.

According to wine connoisseurs, England is the most exciting wine region in the world right now, and guess where most of the vineyards are located? That’s right, our very own county of

Kent – the Garden of England.

“We enjoy the most sunshine hours here than any other part of the country, and that’s why we’ve traditionally been the place to grow produce,” explains Jo.

“Vineyards are starting to take over the landscape, and it’s no surprise that some of the leading English vineyards such as Chapel Down and Gusbourne have made their home here. We even have Champagne houses buying up land to make English sparkling wine – keep an eye out for Domaine Evremond, an Anglo-French alliance with Champagne Taittinger.

To foster communications between each one of these impressive vineyards Jo had the clever idea of setting up an organisation – The Wine Garden of England – a few years ago in order to help encourage joined-up thinking between each one.

“The Wine Garden of England is a group of Kent wine producers who work together to encourage visitors to their estates,” says Jo.

“Wine tourism, as it is known, is growing as fast as our well-watered vines. You no longer have to travel to Europe or California to see some great vineyards thanks to the abundance of high-quality ones we have here in Kent. The best way to sample any of their wine is to visit the vineyards, meet the people behind the label and wander through the vines that produced the wine in your glass.”

Heard it on the grapevine: Wineries taking part in the summer celebration

“The best way to sample any of our local wine is to visit the vineyards, meet the people behind the label and wander through the vines that produced the wine in your glass...”

One of the ways the general public can do this is courtesy of the annual Wine Garden of England’s Summer Festival, the third of which returns in June.

“Our Summer Celebration is an annual tasting that brings these Kent producers together. This year it’s around the lake in the beautiful grounds of Chilham Castle, walking distance from Chilham Station.

She adds that ticket holders can taste a sample from each of the eight producers and spend time with the people behind the labels.

“There’s also a bar with a huge selection of wines and other local drinks, together with a choice of food producers carefully selected from Kent and Sussex. As the sun goes down, the chilled out live music will start, and the party continues. Why not raise a glass and be part of it, too?”

Tickets for the event can be bought at: winegardenofengland.co.uk

Meet the women taking the lead in the wine world…

1. 2022 Yalumba Y Series Viognier, Australia (£8.75, Tesco)

In the 1960s, the heady, floral, lowish-acid white grape variety Viognier (pronounced ‘vee-yon-yay’) was almost extinct. However, Georges Vernay, the famous (late) grower from Condrieu in France’s northern Rhône, played a significant role in saving this fragrant now-fashionable variety. South Australia’s family-owned Yalumba is a founding member of Australia’s ‘First Families of Wine’ and a Viognier specialist. Here celebrated Chief Winemaker, Louisa Rose crafts Australia’s finest monovarietal Viogniers. This full-bodied, fresh, juicy, entry-level example has subtle notes of orange blossom, honeysuckle, apricot, orange peel and gentle spice. One for mild creamy curries, coronation chicken, white fish in a creamy sauce or chicken tagine with preserved lemons and green olives. Cheers to Louisa, Oz’s talented Viognier queen. Wild-fermented and vegan-approved. Alc 13.5%

Rangers’ View

What only comes out at night, weighs the same as a twenty-pence piece, and can fly at a speed of seven metres per second? That’s right, the Pipistrelles Bat, one of the most common British bats and a friendly little resident here at Bewl Water. This week, our rangers have been working away in the “bat cave” – we mean workshop – to build 15 new wooden bat boxes, all with ‘bat ladders’ and narrow entrances.

It’s fun to think that Bewl Water offers the perfect playground for bats, with their new homes giving females a safe, warm place to raise their young in the coming seasons.

2. Williams & Humbert Manzanilla Alegría Superior Sherry NV, Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Andalusia, Spain (£9.50, The Wine Society, 75cl)

Looking for a light sherry in a 75cl bottle with energising flavours and an X-factor? Read on. Seville-born

Paola Medina is the Technical Director and winemaker of Williams & Humbert, the historic bodega owned by the Medina family. This manzanilla – a bone dry, lightly fortified fino sherry aged in the tiny seaside town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda in the northwest of Cádiz province in Spain – is a mouth-watering, pungent, super-refreshing, delicate wine with palate-whetting notes of iodine, bread dough, green olives, and toasted nuts, plus a little orange peel and hay. It’s a massively under-priced (you get 75cl at The Wine Society), perfumed, briny wine to sip with shellfish, smoked salmon and fish soups. Makes a lasting impression – and is quite incredibly inexpensive. Aged biologically under a thick film of benevolent flor yeasts for around six years. Alc 15%

3. Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Crémant De Loire NV, France (Save £1 to £10.50, from £11.50, until March 12, Sainsbury’s)

Nab this keenly-priced, cracking Crémant (made by the painstaking traditional method) de Loire, 85 per cent Chenin Blanc and 15 per cent Chardonnay, with masses of tangy, lemon meringue pie and crunchy, lip-smacking apple tones. What a bargain even without the discount (£1 off until March 12). It’s also superb when jazzed up with a splodge of Crème de Cassis de Dijon – Sainsbury’s has a brilliant one at £9.99, for 35cl – to make a Kir Royal, or just add fresh orange juice for a brilliant buck’s fizz. Made by Juliette Monmousseau, CEO at Bouvet-Ladubay, one of the Loire’s oldest sparkling wine producers. Their wine quality is unfailingly excellent. Snap it up on the deal. Alc 12.5%

4. 2019 Berry Bros. & Rudd Rioja by Bodegas Amézola de la Mora, Spain (£15, Berry Bros & Rudd) Accomplished winemaking sisters Cristina and María Amézola, the fifth generation of this celebrated family-owned Rioja winery –who became Spain’s youngest winemakers in 1999 – have once again shaped a polished own-label red Rioja Crianza (aged for at least a year in oak) for the renowned London wine merchant, Berry Bros & Rudd. With low levels of tannins, plus a sapid core of fresh raspberry and black cherry fruit alongside emerging savoury leather and mocha tones, it’s just the ticket for roast lamb. Lovely drinking, impressive from first to last sip. Classy stuff. One glass very rapidly becomes two. Alc 14%

Our team have strategically positioned the new bat boxes in locations that receive plenty of sunlight during the day, ensuring they are placed at least four metres above the ground on trees near the woods and, in a few instances, on buildings as well.

5. Nyetimber, Classic Cuvée NV Brut, England (save £5 to £16.99, from £21.99, 28 February to 19 March, Waitrose, 37.5cl)

This classy, signature English sparkling wine contains a blend of mainly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, topped up with around 10 per cent Pinot Meunier. The fruit is sourced from West Sussex and Hampshire. Made by Nyetimber’s experienced Canadian-born and raised head winemaker, Cherie Spriggs, it has a toasty bouquet, lively acidity and enticing almond, pastry, baked apple and citrusy flavours. Brisk acidity propels this classy discounted half bottle to a Formula 1 finish. Sushi, poultry or scallops anyone? Perfect size for picnics and toasting International Women’s Day.

Cherie won the 2018 International Wine Challenge Sparkling Winemaker of the Year, the first time someone outside the Champagne wine region won it. Get in while the going is good on this half-bottle Waitrose offer! It’s a delectable experience. Alc 12%

Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines #IWD2024 #InspireInclusion

As there is very minimal light pollution which can affect the bat population, Bewl Water is a great place for their species, especially as they love being by the water too; after all, their main food source is lacewings, midges, mosquitos, and mayflies, all of which thrive in areas of woodland and water. Bats also use woodland edges to help with their navigation, and when emerging at dusk, they very much prefer a tree canopy to leave their roosts safely.

As the weather warms, we look forward to seeing our bat population appear from their hibernation, and we can’t wait to see our new bat boxes being used to preserve their population across the reservoir, woodland, and beyond. Have you ever seen a bat during your visit to Bewl Water?

bewlwater.co.uk @bewlwater

Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, SO Drinks Editor James Viner picks five of his favourite wines made by influential, trailblazing women in the wine world…

Truegems

The Diamond Setter celebrated its official opening on The Pantiles last Wednesday evening (February 21) with a glittering party. The business’s owners, Gavin and Lorraine Marsh, invited some special VIP guests to help them celebrate the official opening of their new showroom and onsite workshop on The Pantiles.

The couple took over their new premises just before Christmas and have transformed it into a welcoming, open-plan space which is perfect for displaying the many exquisite, hand-crafted pieces made by Gavin.

The Diamond Setter, which until recently was based at Salomons Estate, specialises in bespoke jewellery, as well as the redesign and remodelling of heirloom pieces, engagement and wedding rings. Its onsite workshop, which is headed up by Gavin, is also equipped to carry out various jewellery repairs.

At the launch, guests were treated to delicious canapés created by Lukas Barauskas from The Pantiles Bar & Café, and served glasses of bubbles while they browsed the numerous glass display cabinets.

During the evening, Gavin and Lorraine exclusively revealed that they are the first UK Jeweller to design and stock Osmium. Osmium is not only the rarest metal in the world, but in its crystalline form is undisputedly the most beautiful jewellery metal in the world, which sparkles brilliantly. Osmium representative Richard Reis flew in from Portugal especially for the event. Both Gavin and Lorraine have

completed rigorous Osmium training and Gavin has already been busy designing his first collection of Osmium jewellery pieces.

Commenting on the event, Gavin said: “It was such a privilege to invite guests to join us to officially open our new studio on The Pantiles. We are very proud of what we have created at the showroom. We designed the space to be open-plan, informal and relaxed so people can take a look at all our designs –with prices on full display and without being pounced on by a salesperson!”

Lorraine added: “We have been blown away by the positive response since we opened, we have had a steady stream of clients, both old and new, and the other traders on The Pantiles have been incredibly welcoming to us both. “We had been looking for a special location for a long time and being in the historic heartland of Tunbridge Wells, our home town, is perfect.”

Pictures: John Knight Photography

“I’ve always written to help people understand people”

Louisa Campbell is a local published poet who has recently turned her hand to writing a book which has its literary roots firmly based in Tunbridge Wells. Here, she tells Eileen Leahy all about ‘Secret Street’ and why she hopes local residents will help her get it published courtesy of a fundraising initiative…

So Louisa, what gave you the idea of Secret Street?

I wanted to know the untold stories of people living in Tunbridge Wells. It struck me that we’re all contained in our homes, unaware of what’s going on the other side of the party wall, or across the street. Added to this, life seems so harsh these days and there’s frequent mention of the need for kindness.

Over 2,000 years ago, Plato said, ‘Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle you know nothing about’. Something similar is written behind the reception at my local GP surgery. So I wanted to know what battles people are fighting behind the scenes in Tunbridge Wells.

How did you ensure that they all remained anonymous?

I thought the best way to add an extra layer of anonymity was to turn the book into fiction. The central character of the book is a woman called ‘Minty’ Cavendish who is woven throughout the narrative. Known to all – apart from herself as ‘Minty’, the royalobsessed Araminta Cavendish pretends to be posh. At 82, she is single and lonely, but she plans to make friends and become her street’s queen bee by organising a Platinum Jubilee street party. But when a last-minute knock on the door threatens to spoil everything, she discovers her neighbours have secrets of their own.

am, I write to make a positive difference to people’s lives. Poetry is perfect for evoking particular snapshots and moments in time, so my first three books were all poetry about mental health – mine and others’ experiences as both mental health nurse and patient. It seems to me that understanding removes stigma. With people’s stories, you need prose to be able to describe, explain, and elaborate – to create a coherent narrative.

What do you think these ‘secret’ stories will tell our readers?

Can you keep a secret?

Here is the lowdown on the stories

in Secret Street:

Secret Street recounts the tale of Araminta as she sets out on a quest to find friends. Each friend she makes tells her their secret story, and each story gives Araminta a gift of knowledge that helps her learn the only way to find peace – and friendship – is to be herself.

How did you manage to curate all of Secret Street’s stories?

I chose a street (no, I won’t say which one – as it’s a secret!) and put a letter through each door, inviting people to a cosy storytelling session at the local pub, with a view to writing the stories up into a book. But one by one, people came to me and said: ‘I’d like to give you my story, but can I just tell you, privately?’ And of course when I heard the stories, I realised why.

They are astonishing. Some of them are quite gritty and very moving. The themes include adoption, asylum seeking, abortion, violent assault and addiction, so I had to anonymise the hell out of them! Having said that though there is one character in Secret Street who didn’t want his story anonymised: Ian, the well-known 80-year-old local gardener, who rides his bike slowly but surely around Tunbridge Wells, and has been a bell-ringer at St Peter’s Church for 50 years!

Getting Minty to plan the Secret Street Platinum Jubilee street party allows for scenes in which the characters can interact. The book also includes relevant stories of Princess Margaret and Princess Diana, all told through Minty’s experiences and conversations.

What do you think residents of TW will enjoy about reading this book?

People who’ve read it so far love that the book is set in their home town. This, and the emphasis on community makes readers feel part of the story. Of course, the other thing is that they learn that if their own life isn’t as perfect as they’d like it to be, the chances are that nobody else’s is, either.

What made you decide to write a ‘fictionbased-on-fact’ book instead of your beloved poetry?

I’ve always written to help people understand people. I write in this space because then the words I write can literally be life-changing. I don’t write to show people how clever a writer I

When it came to the stories in Secret Street, I wanted them to be accessible to people as an explanation of how perfectly ‘ordinary’ people can find themselves in extraordinary situations. So Secret Street became a book of linked memoirs. One of the stories, for example, is of a lovely, amiable man who ended up on a life prison sentence; another of a man with a degree who ended up being an ‘entrenched’ rough sleeper. Although anonymised and fictionalised, all the stories in Secret Street remain scrupulously faithful to their emotional truth, because that’s the point! Adding in the story of Minty Cavendish adds a light-hearted theme to the narrative. It’s important for readers to know that there are some funny moments in all the seriousness – just like real life.

Can you tell us a little bit about how you are planning to get it published?

I’ve created the publishing label, Penny Drop Press, and I plan to raise the funds to pay for the printing of the first edition with a Kickstarter campaign. The way Kickstarter works is that a target is set for the minimum amount needed for the first edition print run. You pledge to buy a book, but if insufficient pledges are received and the target isn’t met, then the money is never taken from your card, and the book doesn’t get printed.

Secret Street blows apart the stereotype of comfortable middle-class England personified by ‘Disgusted of Tunbridge Wells’. It weaves together the true stories of 12 people living in a street in Tunbridge Wells right now.

For fear of shame, or stigma, these astonishing stories were told to the author behind closed doors, carefully anonymised, and turned into this powerful and entertaining creative non-fiction book.

Although Secret Street clearly has a wider appeal, it’s currently very much a Tunbridge Wells project. With a gorgeous cover design by renowned local artist, Elaine Gill, and endorsements from local residents, the signed, hardback first edition of Secret Street is £20, available only from a Kickstarter campaign which starts on March 28 and runs until April 30.

If you pledge to buy a copy by then, not only will you be buying it at £5 less than the future bookshop price, but also, your name will be printed in the back in the list of patrons, and local delivery (within 10 miles of Tunbridge Wells) will be included.

Louisa Campbell’s Kickstarter launches on March 28, and runs until April 30.

Readers can sign up on the Kickstarter website to be notified when the campaign goes live at: kickstarter.com/projects/secretstreet/ secret-street or via the book’s website at: secretstreet.co.uk

LOUISA CAMPBELL

Illustration by Elaine Gill

St Gregory’s student joins up with Young Lionesses

By Ben Cornwell

A TALENTED footballer from St Gregory’s school in Tunbridge Wells was recently selected to join England women’s under-17 football team to compete in Spain at the MIMA Cup.

After being selected by coach Natalie Henderson, Year 11 student Eva joined the Young Lionesses’ 24-player squad, jetting off with the team in early February to the tournament at the Pinatar Arena in Murcia.

The MIMA Cup, dedicated to advancing women’s football, proved to be a thrilling challenge for the rising football star.

Impressive

Eva’s England debut on February 3 saw her grace the field against the Netherlands, playing a full 45-minute second half. Following this, she showcased her talent in a full 90-minute match on February 5 against the Philippines, earning praise for her ‘impressive’ contribution. The Young Lionesses’ 2-0 victory paved their way to the MIMA Cup final on February 8.

England’s under-17s dominated the final match against Scotland, with an impressive a 5-0 victory and securing both the tournament and the coveted MIMA Cup trophy.

Reflecting on her time playing with the Young Lionesses in Spain, Eva commented; “After eight years of playing at Academy level for Chelsea and Arsenal, representing England was a truly amazing experience. Winning all of our matches and lifting

the tournament trophy at the end was brilliant. It was great to be part of such a talented team of players, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to have made my international debut.”

Eva’s journey began at St Gregory’s in 2019 when she secured a place in the school’s Football Academy. Run in partnership with MSporti, the St Gregory’s Football Academy was established in 2014 with an aim to focus on the development of local, talented football players and has since gained international

During her time at St Gregory’s, Eva’s leadership qualities on and off the field have been evident, leading the girls’ football team to West Kent Schools’ glory for four consecutive years and being an integral part of the squad which reached the Kent Cup final last season.

Assistant Headteacher at St Gregory’s School, Mr Cumber, told the Times; “We are extremely proud of Eva, she is an incredible talent and it’s great to see her being recognised at the highest level.

“Despite her commitment to Arsenal ladies, Eva represents the school at every opportunity, manages her academic studies and remains incredibly humble despite her success. She has all the attributes to make it to the very top.”

Crucial victory puts Wells one step closer to the title

Hockey

Woking first XI 4-5 Tunbridge Wells Men’s first XI

WELLS’ Men’s first string laid down a significant marker in their bid to win the South East Premier Division with a hard-fought 5-4 victory at second placed Woking last Saturday. The home side started strongly and were ahead within three minutes, scoring from a well-worked penalty corner. This actually settled Wells who then started to dominate possession as they won several penalty corners of their own.

Connor Poulain brought the sides level from one such corner before Wells deservedly took the lead through a fine poacher’s finish from Bailey Wright after a swift counter-attack. The lead was not to last long though as Woking fired into the top corner, Matt Upchurch’s deflection not quite enough to keep it out. The sides traded further penalty corner goals before the break, Poulain again on target for Wells, to leave the game level at 3-3 at half time.

It was the visitors who had the best of the early part of the second half, Sam George and Aaron Leadbeater bossing midfield with Poulain, while

Russell Self kept things marshalled at the back. This pressure was rewarded with a third goal for Poulain to give Wells a merited advantage.

Woking were not done, however, knowing that they had to win this game, and struck back with another penalty corner of their own to leave the scores level again. Wells missed the chance to regain and extend their lead as they struck the crossbar, failed to take advantage of a one on one with the home goalkeeper and then saw a penalty stroke saved in quick succession.

Persistence, and resistance to all the home side could throw at them finally paid off as a well worked move down the right saw Poulain collect the ball at the top of the circle and fire home the decisive goal with just five minutes left.

The result sees Wells stay well clear at the top of the league, albeit the sides behind them have games in hand to close the gap, but with five games to go matters remain in Wells’ own hands.

Next up is Canterbury 2s at Tonbridge this Saturday.

TW men’s 1XV suffer defeat in tightly fought fixture

Havant 1XV 34-28

HAVANT started the game very well, applying early pressure that resulted in the first of many penalties. A high tackle led to a Havant lineout just five metres from the try line. Despite a successful drive over, the subsequent kick was missed, leaving the score at 5-0. Another penalty shortly after the restart, coupled with a kick to the 22 and a clean lineout, allowed Havant to move the ball wide to the right. A second-phase play and a well-executed dummy by a forward led to a try scored out wide. This time, the kick was good, extending the lead to 12-0 within the first 10 minutes of the match.

Despite the early setbacks, Tunbridge Wells (TW) showed resilience at the restart. Sam Williams collected the ball, chipped, and swiftly moved within 10 yards of Havant’s line. However, yet another penalty provided relief for the home side. TW managed to steal the lineout, showcasing improved composure, but another penalty within Havant’s 22 for a breakdown infringement halted their progress.

On the 20-minute mark, TW secured a middle lineout just outside Havant’s 22. After several phases, the ball moved out to the left, and Tom Webster powered over just outside the left-hand

post, reducing the deficit to 12-7. The restart saw another penalty, allowing Havant to kick deep into the 22. A quick ball enabled the scrum half to score from close range, and the conversion made it 19-7.

Despite the challenges, TW fought back strongly, and a penalty from Havant’s prop for a ruck infringement on their 22 provided an opportunity. Jack Greig’s kick to halfway set the stage for a clean lineout and multiple phases, culminating in Webster scoring his second try.

An easy conversion brought the score to 19-14, and TW returned to full strength with no further scores in the last two minutes of the half.

Conversion

The second half began with TW seizing the initiative, earning a penalty in Havant’s 22, which they kicked to the corner. A successful lineout, front peel, and phases back infield saw Ben Whale touch down, and Jack’s conversion gave TW the lead at 19-21 within five minutes.

Havant responded by settling the game down, capitalizing on a scrum infringement at half-way. A kick to the corner set the stage for an attack

22. Despite strong defence, a penalty just five metres out allowed Havant to regain the lead at 22-21. With handling conditions deteriorating due to rain, errors crept into both sides’ play.

Havant increased their lead to 29-21 with a try from the centre, followed by a successful conversion. A well-spotted space by the Havant fly-half after the restart resulted in another try, though the conversion was missed, making the score 34-21 with 15 minutes remaining. Sam Crichton and Mylo Vanner-Mackew joined the field with Luke Hawkins and Tom Webster

making way.

As the rain continued to make constructive rugby challenging, TW remained focused on securing a try bonus point. Strong carries led to a penalty just 10 meters out, and Jay Smith managed to smuggle the ball over after a clean lineout and several phases.

Jack’s composed conversion brought the final score to 34-28, earning TW two bonus points and allowing Havant to reclaim the league’s top spot with 5 points.

On Saturday, Wells host CS Stags 1863 at St Marks.

deep inside TW’s

Tunbridge Wells 1XV

Rugby

Picture: Bruce Elliott

EVA

Kent men’s team return to Nevill Ground now deemed ‘unlikely’

THE much-anticipated return of the Kent Men’s First XI to the historic Nevill Ground has been deemed ‘unlikely’ by Kent County Cricket Club CEO, Simon Storey in his recent Spring Statement.

The Nevill Ground had been one of two local venues used to host county matches outside of the Spitfire Ground in Canterbury, along with the County Cricket Ground in Beckenham.

However, Kent have now not played men’s first-team cricket at the venue for four years following the pandemic’s cancellation of the annual Tunbridge Wells Festival in 2020.

The local festival, otherwise known as Tunbridge Wells Cricket Week, had been running for over 100 years – having first started in 1902 – and was a cherished annual event in the cricketing calendar for both locals and fans of Kent County Cricket Club.

In his Spring Statement shared on February 22, Mr Storey revealed that despite regular requests from supporters, a return of the Men’s First XI to the Nevill in 2024 is not currently on the schedule. However, he didn’t completely rule out a possible return to the venue in the future. He added: “We’ll continue to take significant Men’s Second XI and Kent Women’s fixtures to Tunbridge Wells this Summer and the door to an eventual return Men’s First XI remains open.”

While disappointment may ripple through the cricket community in Tunbridge Wells, the CEO

assures that the county club is committed to supporting the ‘excellent work that is going on locally’.

The decision not to return to the Nevill for the Men’s First XI stems from several considerations. Mr Storey explained: “Standards relating to the players’ and umpires’ facilities continue to rise and the quality of pitches remains key.

Challenges

“Whilst it’s increasingly difficult to see the return of First XI red-ball cricket to the Nevill, given the ever-rising requirements for first class venues, first-team white-ball cricket remains a possibility.”

Acknowledging the ‘considerable’ challenges, he suggested the need for a long-term plan to ensure the return to the venue was ‘financially sustainable’.

Tunbridge Wells Cricket Club Chair Mike Webb told the Times that Mr Storey remains ‘extremely positive about bringing first class cricket to the Nevill’, though in the form of one day matches rather than the County Championship matches that the venue previously held.

Mr Webb added: “As a club, we are focused on making improvements to the Nevill to ensure we are well placed to host first class matches as and when the opportunity arises.”

Dame Kelly Holmes visits the Tonbridge School Centre

EARLIER this month, Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes visited the Tonbridge School Centre. She was taking part in a photoshoot to promote her participation in a new photography exhibition being organised by the Sport and Recreation Alliance.

The exhibition, SportingQueer, will celebrate LGBTQ+ people in every kind of sport and activity, from grassroots to elite level, and will be travelling to many different events and

Young darts enthusiasts take aim in Pembury

A NEW free junior darts club opened earlier this month in Pembury.

The Pembury Junior Darts Club is held every Saturday at the King William IV pub on Hastings Road from midday til 2pm. Parents are asked to remain at the venue for the duration of the club.

The new club, for children aged 8 to 16, was launched by Dan Littlechild, Chairman of the Kent and Sussex Hospital Fund Darts League (KSHFDL). The KSHFDL has raised over £115,000 across the last 35 years to support Tunbridge Wells Hospital and the former Kent and Sussex Hospital.

Sessions

Following the success of 17-year-old darts player Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler at the 2023/24 PDC World Championships, several parents had got in contact with Dan asking if there were any junior darts clubs in the area and so he decided to enquire and set one up himself.

The club is sponsored by Dan’s employers Quensh Specialists Ltd (equipment) and the King William IV (venue), meaning that the sessions can remain free of charge and be as inclusive to as many people as possible.

The first few sessions have been popular with between 10 and 20 children attending each week. Some attendees have since set up darts boards at home in their garages so that they can practise further and play with their parents.

Dan commented, “It’s been really good so far. They are all really enjoying it. Not only is it keeping them off technology for two hours, but it’s teaching them to count without realising and they’re just having fun and getting

into the sport.”

He has hopes to grow the youth participation of the sport locally by encouraging some other clubs or members in the adult’s darts league to consider setting up junior sessions of their own so that they can eventually getting a mini league started in the local area.

However, Dan explained to the Times that the club’s main goal is to encourage the next generation into trying a new sport.

He added, “Everyone says ‘oh you might have the next Luke Littler’, but it’s not about finding the next Luke Littler really. It’s just about

getting them out there and doing something that they might enjoy.”

This Saturday (March 2), Dan is hosting a 12-hour darts marathon at the King William IV pub from 10am to 10pm to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK in support of dads everywhere.

The event is open to everyone to attend, with some of the members from the junior darts club and the adults league already signed up to play.

If your child is interested in joining the Pembury Junior Darts Club, contact Dan at 07947084266 for more information.

venues across the UK. A spokesperson for the exhibition said: “Dame Kelly is so inspirational, and an incredible role model for LGBTQ+ sports people at every level. We want the exhibition to be seen and enjoyed by as many as possible, to share a greater sense of understanding and community and to help more people feel confident to be ‘out and proud’ in sports and activities across the UK.”

PICK

Picture: The Tonbridge School Centre

THE NEVILL GROUND

DAME KELLY HOLMES

FLIGHT CLUB:

Young darts players at the King William IV