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By Richard Williams TUNBRIDGE Wells’ Christmas lights were switched on at the weekend, with a new installation to give the town a festive boost this year. The team behind the town’s BID [Business Improvement District] said the old lights installed by the council had passed their use by date so this year BID took over management of the scheme. The lights, which were paid for by BID with a contribution by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, were turned on Sunday night, but lockdown prevented any official switching on ceremony.

BID spent £40,000 on the new lighting display with the Council contributing £15,000. The town’s festive lights have been criticised in the past for being fairly lacklustre, but Ross Feeney, Chief Executive of BID, says the new installation provides a great ‘starting point’ for increasing the number of lights in the town each year.

Additions He said: “We’re really delighted to see the new lights have been switched on. “We had a lot of feedback from local businesses about improving the lighting

scheme, and I hope we have met their expectations. “It’s a brand new scheme, with different types of lights in different parts of the town. “The most noticeable additions are lights on Cotswold’s columns and Mr Frosty our three metre high snowman by the clock tower. “We hope, once lockdown has ended, that people will be able to come into town and enjoy Tunbridge Wells illuminated for Christmas.”

For more pictures see page 8

SPECIAL EDITION NEXT WEEK WITH ALL ADVERTISEMENTS FREE OF CHARGE GOOD NEWS! This newspaper will after all be published next Wednesday [Nov 25]. Because lockdown brought a dip in ad revenue it was planned to print fortnightly. Now, though, we’ll be distributing a bumper edition where all 80 advertisements from our regular clients will be carried free of charge. The collective value of that support is

around £30,000. It’s our way of going the ‘extra mile’ to help boost local businesses and the community as we hopefully emerge from another lockdown. Even if you have never advertised with us we might still be able to print your ad for free particularly if you operate a smaller independent business. For more details

email rsinger@markerstudy.com. Next week’s paper will, as usual, have all the local and national news that matters along with the regular features including food and culture plus property. It will be available at the normal pickup points across Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.

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FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

this week… RAC criticises council as it hits

motorists with £200,000 in fines By Richard Williams

FRESH IDEAS: Town’s politicos suggest how Tunbridge Wells can claw back millions after developers pull out p6 SHARING IS CARING: Nourish Foodbank warns of dramatic rise in demand ahead of Christmas holidays p12

THE Borough Council has come under fire from the RAC for catching out drivers with ‘inadequate’ road signage that is putting the town’s ‘reputation at risk’. Since it pedestrianised a Tunbridge Wells town centre street, the council has been netting around £35,000 every week in fines. The running total stands at £204,000. More than 3,000 drivers have been handed a fine after restrictions were introduced at the top of Mount Pleasant, outside the Town Hall, and Monson Road. The changes, which prohibits vehicles from entering the roads between 9am and 6pm are catching out around 85 drivers a day since the Council began enforcement.

Arrangements NEVER FORGET: Schoolchildren pay tribute to the fallen of previous wars and conflicts with virtual service p20

ARTISTIC ENDEAVOUR: Kent Painters Group launch a month long online exhibition to raise funds for charity p34 CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richardwilliams@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES RSinger@markerstudy.com | 01892 739763 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

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CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times Local News we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TF, or email newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.

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Previously, the Council had been issuing warning notices to motorists it deemed were flouting the new restrictions. But since September it has been using its camera car to catch drivers using on the stretch of road during the restrictions and is issuing £60 penalty charge notices [PCN], although the amount can be reduced by 50 per cent for early payment. The Council says people have had enough time to get used to the road changes now, which have been designed to reduce traffic and be more pedestrian friendly. A spokesperson said: “Making changes to a town centre traffic scheme takes time as people need to get used to the new arrangements; much as we saw with the first phase of the scheme.

NO GO The area on Mount Pleasant now restricted to traffic “For this reason, we took an approach that allowed people time to adjust their journeys and get used to the new road layout by issuing information letters to those drivers not complying with the restrictions. “To ensure that the full benefits of the scheme are felt it is now time to reinforce the signs that are in place by carrying out enforcement.” But residents and traders in the town centre have argued the signage indicating the restrictions is inadequate, and motoring organisations say the Council is risking the town’s reputation with motorists with such

punitive measures. Steve Gooding, director of the RAC Foundation, said: “These numbers indicate a system that is failing rather than working. “It is inconceivable that more than eighty drivers per day are intentionally setting out to ignore the rules and get a fine, so it suggests road markings and signage are inadequate. “At a time when most towns in the South East are crying out for visitors and the trade they bring, Tunbridge Wells risks getting a reputation as a place where motorists are out of pocket before they’ve even parked.”

Trial into death of Crowborough baby ‘shaken to death’ collapses By Robert Forrester THE parents of a two-month old baby that suffered injuries consistent with ‘violent shaking’ face a retrial after the case against them collapsed this week. The jury at Lewes Crown Court, sitting at Hove Crown Court, has now been discharged, leaving mother, Tiffany Tate, 22, and the child’s father, Michael Roe, 33, facing a new trial over the death of their eight-week-old daughter. Holly Roe had been born prematurely in July and died when she was eight weeks old after suffering injuries at her home in Crowborough. Emergency services were called to the house in at Alderbrook Road during the early hours of Monday, September 10 after the couple reported two-month old Holly was not breathing.

killing her baby, and the judge directed the jury to find her not guilty. She was still facing charges of allowing the death of a child, however, and Holly’s father, Michael Roe, remained charged with murder. He had been alone with Holly when the eightweek-old had stopped breathing, the court had been told.

Both have denied the allegations. However, on Monday, the judge dismissed the jury and the trial was halted. It is unclear why the court case collapsed but both parents are expected to now face a retrial over baby Holly’s death. A court date is expected to be set in the New Year.

Murder She was rushed to Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury where she was later pronounced dead. Post-mortem examinations showed Holly had suffered head injuries on three different occasions before her death and 11 rib fractures. Forensic Pathologist Dr Charlotte Randall had told the court baby Holly’s head injuries were likely caused by ‘violent shaking’. Holly’s mother, Tiffany Tate, 22, who was described in court as having borderline learning difficulties, had been on trial for the murder of baby Holly, along with her former partner. But the prosecution said last week that it was offering no evidence against her in relation to

ACCUSED Tiffany Tate and Michael Roe with baby Holly

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

NEWS IN BRIEF

Ex-husband stabbed former wife at nail bar THE ex-husband of a Tonbridge nail bar owner tried to murder his former wife by stabbing her in the neck, a court has heard. Thuan Dinh, 52, is alleged to have armed himself with petrol before lying in wait for his ex-wife outside the VCC Boutique in Tonbridge High Street in March, a jury was told. Lien Dinh, 49, suffered near-fatal injuries when Dinh plunged a fruit knife into her neck, severing the carotid artery. The court heard Dinh had planned to kill his wife and then set fire to the nail bar wife after she had got a court to issue a restraining order against him. Dinh, of Rowan Mews, Tonbridge, has denied attempting to murder his former wife four years after they had divorced. The trial at Maidstone Crown Court continues.

Inquest into A21 fall A CORONER has heard how a 24-year-old law graduate died after falling 30 feet from a road bridge on the A21 near to Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge after her vehicle burst into flames. Azra Kemal, from London, was travelling home with a friend in the early hours of July 16 when the Ford Focus they were travelling in caught fire, forcing them to get out, the hearing was told. The pair escaped from the flaming, smoking car and crossed the road to seek help, the inquest heard, but Ms Kemal fell through a gap between the two sides of the carriageway and sustained fatal injuries. An inquest into her death at the Shepway Centre in Maidstone heard how Ms Kemal was found by emergency services having fallen about 30 feet from the carriageway above. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple severe injuries. The inquest continues.

A TONBRIDGE pub has been named West Kent Pub of the Year by the Campaign for Real Ale [CAMRA]. The Nelson Arms in Tonbridge was also named Cider Pub of The Year in the West Kent CAMRA Pub of the Year Award 2020. The West Kent branch of the Campaign for Real Ale also named The George in Tunbridge Wells as Pub of the Year runner-up.

NEWS

Alliance hopeful has Facebook group banned for offensive posts By Robert Forrester A Facebook group set up by businessman Matthew Sankey has been taken down by the social media platform after a stream of offensive and abusive posts. Using a different name Mr Sankey, who runs a pub and eatery in the town centre, launched a group called ‘What’s wrong with Tunbridge Wells, by a guy from Tunbridge Wells’. According to Mr Sankey the Facebook group ‘got out of hand’ after attracting 7,000 users over the years.

Aggresive It has also become a political platform, with many posts highly critical of the Council and its local Conservative members. It’s understood that Mr Sankey hopes to stand as a borough council candidate in Speldhurst & Bidborough ward for the Tunbridge Wells Alliance party at the May council elections. The Alliance party itself has been criticised for its aggressive and intimidating use of social media at a previous council election. It ran a high profile campaign that saw the end of plans for a theatre complex at a cost to local taxpayers of £11million. Mr Sankey says his original intention for the website group was to defend Tunbridge Wells businesses after a similar

site was set up by somebody not from the area. He told the Times: “A lot of what was on that site was not true, and there is actually not a lot wrong with Tunbridge Wells so I decided to set up my own, which is why it had the name ‘by a guy from Tunbridge Wells’. Over the years the group has courted controversy with a number of internet users complaining about bullying and the offensive nature of the group. After a raft of complaints about the group last month, the social media giant shut it down. Facebook says it deletes groups that violate its Terms of Service or Community Standards. The guidelines cite the promotion of violence, attacks on individuals or groups, nudity and

THE latest unemployment figures show that the number of people out of work in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge actually fell last month. Despite the prospect of the end of the Government’s Job Retention Scheme – before it was extended at the end of last month due to the introduction of a second lockdown – the number of people claiming unemployment benefits dropped in October, according to the Office of National Statistics. Jobless figures for Tunbridge Wells show that

drug-related, graphic or sexually suggestive content as the primary reasons for deletion. Mr Sankey, who set up the group under the name Matthew Guy Richard, admits it had ‘got out of hand’ due to the sheer volume of members. “I think it just became a victim of its own success,” he said. “While there was a couple of occasions where people were racist or really nasty, we took those posts down. “Yes, it was a lively platform and people got a bit sweary, but people were reporting it for lots of silly things. My view is if you do not like what is on the group you should leave.” Mr Sankey has since set up another Facebook Group entitled: ‘What’s wrong with Tunbridge Wells, by a guy from Tunbridge Wells 2’.

BARRED: Matthew Sankey, owner of Sankey’s pub, had his Facebook group banned

Towns buck national trend with unemployment falling By Richard Williams

Pub of the year

Local News

there were 105 fewer people claiming some form of out of work benefit last month, compared to September. In total, 3,140 were claiming benefits such as Universal Credit in October, compared to 3,425 in the previous month. A similar picture played out in Tonbridge, according the ONS, which saw 145 fewer claims for benefits.

Furlough In September, 3,540 people were claiming jobless benefits in Tonbridge & Malling,

compared to 3,245 last month. This was despite many businesses anticipating the end of the furlough scheme, which was scheduled to finish on October 31, before the chancellor agreed to extend it until March next year due to the introduction of a second lockdown. Nationally, unemployment has surged since the first lockdown was introduced in March. The UK unemployment rate rose to 4.8 per cent in October, with the number of workers on payrolls dropping by 782,000 between March and October, including a fall of 33,000 in last month alone, the ONS said. But despite both Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge bucking this national trend, both boroughs have seen a threefold increase in the number of people out of work since the pandemic began. This time last year just 1,040 people in Tunbridge Wells and 1,165 in Tonbridge & Malling were on out of work benefits.

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Tunbridge Wells remembers

Towns could emerge under different tiers TUNBRIDGE Wells and Tonbridge could emerge from the latest Covid lockdown under different tiers, due to differing coronavirus rates. Before the second nationwide lockdown was announced last month, the Director of Public Health at Kent County Council, Andrew ScottClark, was understood to be contemplating putting various boroughs and districts into separate Tiers. Mr Scott-Clark was said to be concerned about the rising rates of Covid in a number of areas of East Kent, including Swale, Thanet, Dartford and Gravesham.

By Richard Williams A SHORT commemoration service took place in Tunbridge Wells last week to mark Armistice Day. Victoria Cross Grove in Dunorlan Park was the setting for a short service on Wednesday November 11. The Royal British Legion’s chairman John Cohen stood by the Memorial Sculpture in the Grove and said a few words. This was followed by the Last Post, played by buglers Jon Vanns and Simon Taylor from TS Brilliant during which the RBL Standard was lowered by Standard Bearer Duncan Sage, before the two-minutes silence, after which Mayor Cllr Joy Podbury laid a wreath at the Memorial.

Increased It was the health chief’s intention to put the districts with the highest rates in Tier 2, while keeping the rest of the county in Tier 1 – the lowest level. When lockdown ends on December 2, Mr Scott Clark says different areas of Kent could still be separated into different Tiers. “There is a chance that may happen, yes,” he said. “But we are in constant discussion with central government, PHE [Public Health England] and our partners to ensure our plans safeguard the health and wellbeing of Kent residents.” Since lockdown was announced, rates of infectionhave increased dramatically in Tonbridge, which before lockdown had the lowest Covid numbers in the county. Unless the figures drop, this could see the borough earmarked for Tier 2.

Fallen About a dozen members of the public were in attendance. It followed a live streamed Remembrance Sunday Service on November 8. Despite the Council’s request for people to stay away and watch the ceremony online, there was still a small number of shoppers who stopped to pay their respects. They gathered near to where the ceremony was taking place in Civic Way, in a specially cordoned off area in order to observe the two minutes’ silence to honour the fallen from both World War Wars and other conflicts. The service, which began at 10.45am, was led by Reverend Lawrence Powell, vicar of King Charles the Martyr Church. He was assisted by Pastor Gareth Jones of The Pantiles Baptist Church and Imam Yasser Balesaria Tunbridge Wells from Tunbridge WE Islamic and Cultural Centre. Tunbridge Wells Royal British Legion, David Wakefield, laid a wreath at the war memorial on behalf of Tunbridge Wells Royal British Legion.

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

HOW THE TOWNS COMPARE...

TRIBUTE: Mayor Joy Podbury with members of the Royal British Legion remember the fallen last week

Village ‘poppy man’ vandalised

A MEMORIAL made entirely of poppies had to be removed after it was repeatedly vandalised. ‘Poppy man’ sits on a bench in Pembury village green each year to commemorate Armistice Day, but it has been targeted by vandals on three occasions this year. The first and second time the vandals removed the poppy man’s head and crushed his feet, but when they struck for the third time last week, binding the likeness’s head and hands with sticky tape, volunteers had to remove him. Last week, a sign was placed on the bench where the poppy man normally sat explaining that it was unable to keep repairing the memorial. Pembury parish councillor, Patrick Gillan, told the Times: “For the third time in as many weeks the much-loved poppy man on Pembury village green has been vandalised. “This memorial to our heroes who fought and died for their country is a welcome and sobering sight for everyone who lives in Pembury. “This last weekend however once again saw the memorial desecrated in the most vulgar manner. “As a parish councillor and resident of Pembury I am appalled that a small element in this

community are hell bent on causing damage to an exhibit created in love by the most dedicated band of volunteers. “My heart breaks for them and all in Pembury who feel there is nothing they can do to stop this mindless cruelty and dishonour to the young men who left this community to fight for our freedom and liberty from tyranny. “Someone must know who is responsible and I would urge them to contact the police.”

Official Public Health figures for the week ending November 12 showed there were 244 positive cases of coronavirus in Tonbridge & Malling, taking its rate per 100,000 people to 184.6. Rates in Tunbridge Wells have also risen past the 100 cases per 100,000 mark. Last week, 141 positive cases were recorded in the borough, taking the rate per 100,000 to 118.8. Swale has the highest rates in the county with 797 new cases last week, taking its rate per 100,000 to 531.0 – and the Kent town is onw now the tenth most infected area in England. Thanet has the highest rates in the county with 544 positive cases last week, taking its rate per 100,000 to 383.3. It is followed by Thanet with 481.3 per 100,000, Gravesham at 276.8 per 100,000, and Dartford 303.7 per 100,000. The average rate per 100,000 for England currently stands at 271.2.

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Parties outline ideas after town loses £300million in investments By Richard Williams OPPOSITION parties have laid out their ideas to bring investment to Tunbridge Wells after nearly £300million of developers’ cash has been withdrawn from the town over the last 12 months. This follows the Times’ disclosure that a number of developers have pulled out of Tunbridge Wells over the last 12 months, taking with them £283million worth of investment. These include the £80million retirement complex earmarked for the former ABC Cinema site, which developer Elysian Residences has back on the market.

Dealership Earlier in the year, British Land finished an £11million renovation to Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, after shelving a much bolder £70million upgrade proposed by former owners Hermes, which would have included a cinema. Last year, councillors voted to scrap the £108million Calverley Square theatre and civic centre, despite the Council having invested £11million in developing the project. And last month, councillors rejected planning permission for a £25million car dealership in Pembury. Hendy Group had wanted to build a ‘motor village’ and said the development would create 50 jobs and help retain 130 more. The Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has pinned the blame for developers pulling out of the town on opposition parties after they blocked the Calverley Square development last year. He said: “The election of May 2019 changed the

CANCELLED Calverley Square theatere project was cancelled last year political balance of the Borough Council. With the Conservative Group losing 13 seats and with many of the new Councillors against the Calverley Square project the decision was made at full Council not to go ahead. “Calverley Square would have brought up to £40 million a year into the town and was supported by many businesses including British Land who have subsequently stopped their £80million redevelopment, and the owners of the cinema site who are trying to sell.” Both Labour and the Liberal Democrats have outlined their ideas to the Times [see right] on how they would bring investment into Tunbridge Wells if they had more control of the Council. As with the other parties, the Tunbridge Wells Alliance were also approached for their ideas.

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

PARK AND RIDE SCHEME SHELVED A PARK and ride scheme that councillors used as the reason to reject the Hendy Motor Village last month, has been scrapped. During the planning meeting when councillors were discussing the Hendy dealership’s plan, the application was blocked as councillors said they would prefer the site be used for a park and ride scheme, already earmarked for the location. But Council leader Alan McDermott has said the Council has found scheme is not feasible. He said: “Evidence gathering for the Draft Local Plan included a study to explore park and ride feasibility for Tunbridge Wells. “The resulting report concluded that although potential park and ride sites in the town have been shown to be technically and operationally viable, none are financially feasible. “The report also illustrates that the benefits to park and ride users in terms of improved journey times are not great. As well as the site near Tesco, Pembury, two other sites were shortlisted to look at in terms of detailed feasibility studies, Mabledon and Eridge Road.” FOR SALE The Belvedere would have sat on Mount Pleasant Road

November 18 | News 2020 2Wednesday NEWS Local

REPURPOSE THE TOWN HALL Hugo Pound, Labour councillor for Sherwood “If we have more influence after the May elections, we will press for more social and genuinely affordable housing in the middle of town, not flats out of most people’s price range. “We will press for the repurposing and redevelopment of the Town Hall into a mix of retail, social and business pods. And next door a redeveloped Assembly Hall as a multipurpose entertainment space. “We will restrict traffic in the middle of town and consult on more pedestrianisation. We will engage with the public and experts on how to make the town a place people want to come to for work and pleasure, responding to the changing working patterns and landscape arising from Covid-19.”

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Councils battle to balance the books after Covid leaves debts of millions BOTH Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent County Council laid bare the black holes they are facing in their budgets for 2021 last week. At the Finance and Governance Cabinet Advisory Board meeting on November 10 at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, head of finance, Lee Colyer, presented his budget update for 2021 to councillors. In it, he said following the pandemic, the Council is facing a £3.5million shortfall in next year’s budget and suggests Council tax will have to rise next year. In order to balance its books for the 2021/2022 financial year, Mr Coyler told councillors that the Council would have to dip into its reserves – money reserved for emergencies and one-off payments.

CREATE AN ENTERPRISE ZONE Mark Ellis, Tunbridge Wells Liberal Democrats “Tunbridge Wells has one of the UK’s highest levels of start-up businesses. Converting underutilised parts of the Town Hall into a collaborative work hub would encourage new businesses and footfall into our town centre. “This enterprise zone should be managed by a CIC (community interest company) that would achieve social objectives as well as make commercial decisions. A progressive parking and transport strategy would attract more shoppers and visitors to Tunbridge Wells, creating a welcoming environment that would allow shops, restaurants and cultural venues to thrive.”

Wednesday 28 | 20207 Local News October NEWS

Reserves He later told the Times: “Whilst service efficiencies will be sought, the budget gap for 2021/22 of some £3.5million is such that to avoid drastic cuts to services at a time when residents are most reliant on them, it is proposed to temporarily use reserves to balance the budget. “This can be afforded in the short-term but when the Council is able to do so reserves should be replenished. “The Government needs to deliver on their promise to support councils. Fortunately, this Council entered the pandemic in a healthy position with a balanced budget, cash reserves and no external debt. “But the gravity of the situation is such that the pandemic is likely to make fundamental changes to the local economy and to the Council’s income streams. “This will require the Council to review which

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TOUGH DECISIONS County Hall is asking residents to prioritise services

services it can afford to deliver, how it works and the cost effectiveness of its property assets. The budget update presented to the Cabinet Advisory Board allows for the immediate attention to be focused on continuing to help the community and the economy through the pandemic.” He has told the Cabinet Advisory Board that councillors would be asked to agree to increase Council Tax by more than the usual 2 per cent to help shore up its finances before April 2021 – a month before next year’s local elections. HMeanwhile, Kent County Council (KCC) is also wrestling with an expected shortfall in its budget next year of between £62million and £143million for 2021-22, with the next government settlement to local authorities as yet unknown. It is asking residents – until 24 November – to outline their priorities for KCC to consider as it prepares its budget for the next financial year. Tunbridge Wells county councillor and KCC’s

Cabinet Member for Finance, Peter Oakford said: “Over the past 10 years, despite cuts in government funding and an increased demand for some of our services, we have managed to make savings of more than £710million. “But we now face an even bigger financial challenge. We are continuing to lobby the government for more funding, but we do not yet know how much we will receive, and we have to make plans now to balance next year’s budget. “We have to consider making some difficult decisions about where to reduce our spending.” KCC has also suggested that Council Tax will rise next year by at least 2 per cent, adding a further £24 on people’s bills. The news comes after Croydon Council effectively went bankrupt last week. KCC’s consultation runs until 24 November 2020 and the document and questionnaire can be found at www.kent.gov.uk/budget.

g l o o m y loc K- d ow n l it - u p f o r b ri ghte r t ime s ah e ad Tunbridge Wells Christmas lights are better than ever, thanks to festive funding from Royal Tunbridge Wells Together. From creative column uplighting illuminating our heritage buildings, to twinkling diamond lights lining the high street and some shimmering strings through famous thoroughfares. Families and friends will now be able to wander the bright streets late into the evening and say hello to Frosty too, a fantastic 3.3.m tall snowman standing proud by the clocktower at FiveWays. Discover just some of the terrific treats and trinkets on offer in our town safely online now at www.TWChristmas.shopping. But, as soon as our doors reopen, we warmly invite you to head into town to purchase the perfect gift for all on your list.

Ross Feeney, Chief Executive of Royal Tunbridge Wells Together said: ‘We wanted this year, more than ever, to provide some much-needed festive spirit and happiness. We hope our big, bold displays will shine a light on our town’s cracking character and community, whilst encouraging everyone back to our beautiful streets when they are able, to support our brilliant shops, eateries and more.” Have a BRIGHT and merry Christmas one and all.

imagES By RoSE BainBRiDgE

Begin browsing from the bottom of our town in the historic Pantiles, meander along the quirky cobbles of Chapel Place, onwards up the hill of our bustling High Street, through the bright lights of Royal Victoria Place and beyond. Stroll across the common to cosy park-side public houses, go ice skating at the infamous Calverley Park rink and discover all of our quirky independents dotted between.

find the ulti mate gi f t for those on your l i s t ... w ww.twchristma s.s hoppi ng

browse online shop i n store may your chri stmas be br i ght Promoted by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together on behalf of local businesses.

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Troubled colleges to lose nearly 100 staff as redundancies announced By Richard Williams AROUND 90 staff are expected to lose their jobs at Hadlow College and West Kent College, the group that took over the two campuses has confirmed. North Kent College (NKC) took over both colleges in August after previous owners Hadlow Group collapsed. Hadlow College was plunged into insolvency after running up £40million in debts, while sister site West Kent and Ashford College racked up over £100million. Both had to apply for emergency funding from the government and Hadlow Group became the first college group in the UK to go through educational administration.

THE two men in charge at Hadlow Group before its colleges plunged into administration are being investigated by the insolvency watchdog. The Government’s Insolvency Service has confirmed to educational journal FE Week that it is now making enquiries into the ‘conduct of relevant personnel in the period leading up to the onset of insolvency’. It is understood the investigation will focus on the conduct of deputy principal Mark Lumsdon-Taylor and principal Paul Hannan. Both men resigned just before Hadlow College and then West Kent College became the first colleges in the UK to enter Education Administration.

Disqualify

Restructuring The original principal of both colleges, Paul Hannan, and his deputy principal, Mark Lumsdon-Taylor, both resigned before the collapse of Hadlow Group, as did the chairs of both colleges and several governors. After the High Court put the colleges in administration, FE [further education] Commissioner Richard Atkins recommended their assets be split between NKC, Capel Manor College, and East Kent College Group (EKC). After taking over the troubled Tonbridge and Hadlow campuses this year, NKC has said a voluntary redundancy scheme had been launched at the request of staff. But now NKC has confirmed that 90 staff are at risk of redundancy under further ‘restructuring plans’. North Kent principal David Gleed said: “When North Kent College acquired the elements of

FORMER COLLEGE BOSSES ARE UNDER INVESTIGATION

JOB CUTS West Kent College in Tonbridge Hadlow and West Kent College in the Summer, almost all of the back office staff from the much larger Hadlow Group transferred to North Kent College as part of the Education Administration process, despite North Kent College only taking on about 70 per cent of the income generating elements of the Hadlow Group. “Given the financial reasons that drove Hadlow into educational administration before the break-up, acquiring nearly 100 per cent of the costs and around 70 per cent of the income was never going to be sustainable without making cost reductions. “While we do face some very difficult decisions surrounding staffing, these reductions represent

small percentage of the college workforce and North Kent College will do all that it can to prevent compulsory redundancies.” The college has entered into a 30-day period of collective consultation with the University and College Union over the job losses. NKC inherited 630 staff, with 2,175 students at Hadlow and 2,611 students at Tonbridge. A National Audit Office report published in September said that the cost of the two educational insolvencies cost £26.6 million. Nearly a hundred local firms were left out of pocket following the collapse of Hadlow Group, with more than £5million owed to businesses in the area.

The chair of Hadlow College’s board at the time, Theresa Bruton, is also thought to be under investigation. A spokesperson said if there is evidence of misconduct, and it’s in the public interest, the Insolvency Service may pursue enforcement measures, such as director disqualification. The service has a three-year window from the date of insolvency ‘within which to issue disqualification proceedings should there be evidence of wrongdoing’. Hadlow College went into education administration in May last year, followed by its sister college West Kent and Ashford in August. FE Week has reported that the Insolvency Service can decide to seek to disqualify any of the governors; but Mr LumsdonTaylor and Mr Hannan could also be convicted of a criminal offence.

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Gym forced to close has turned to online fitness

HEALTHY BUSINESS Gym boss Charles Foulkes

By Robert Forrester A TUNBRIDGE Wells gym that had been forced to shut its doors has taken to offering online courses to keep people in shape during lockdown. High Brooms based énergie Fitness say that there is ‘very strong evidence’ that Covid is not being transmitted in gyms, and those who exercise regularly are less likely to get the worst symptoms even if they do catch it elsewhere. Despite this, as with all gyms, énergie was forced to shut on November 5 after the government introduced its second lockdown to combat rising infection rates of coronavirus.

Advantage But to recognise and reward the support that members have continued to give the gym through both lockdowns, the club management have put together a full range of online support to enable their members to keep fit. Members will be able to take advantage of online classes plus workshops and help covering everything from mental well-being to nutrition and social events. Owner Charlie Foulkes said: “As a locally owned business, but part of a national franchise network, we have been planning for this situation and have an amazing programme

ready to roll out. “We do not see this as a four-week holiday but are working harder than ever to keep our members active and well. “We are determined to repay the amazing loyalty and support our members have shown us this year and will be making sure that everyone stays at the top of their game, ready to pick up where they left off when we reopen.” Most of the online support is exclusive to members, but there are classes on the énergie Fitness Tunbridge Wells Facebook page that are open to all. Anyone who joins during lockdown will get access to all of it and pay nothing until 2021. As well as providing free online classes, énergie Fitness is also providing support to Nourish Community Foodbank and is seeking donations. Mr Foulkes added: “This situation has dragged many more ordinary people into a situation where they are struggling to feed their families – two to three times as many as before Covid hit. “So, we are asking for donations of nonperishable food to pass to Nourish, our local community foodbank. Every Friday, members and staff bring to the gym whatever they can afford to and we pick it up and get it to Nourish to distribute” If you would like to support the food donation programme, please contact énergie Fitness by emailing tunbridge.wells@energiefitness.com

NEWS IN BRIEF

Applications are open for new Covid support grants TUNBRIDGE Wells Borough Council has launched a new application process for businesses forced to shut down due to the new lockdown to apply for grants. Local Restrictions Support Grants may be available to those organisations registered for business rates in Tunbridge Wells that are required to close as part of the new national restrictions. Those businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or under, could be eligible for grants of £1,334 per month. Businesses in properties with a rateable value of between £15,000-£51,000 be eligible for grants of £2,000 per month. And businesses in properties with a rateable value over £51,000 could receive grants of up to £3,000 per month The Council has developed an online

application form to assist businesses in applying for the grants. The information and application form for the Local Restrictions Support Grants may be found at https://www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/ coronavirus/advice-and-support-forbusinesses

Citizen Advice Bureau’s annual general meeting THE Tunbridge Wells branch of the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is to hold its annual general meeting (AGM) next week, but due to the Covid pandemic it will be an online event. The service, which has recently been inundated with requests for help due to coronavirus restrictions is to hold its AGM inext Wednesday, November 25, at 6pm via Zoom. Those that are interested in attending should contact advice@catwd.org.uk

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Law firm recognised as among the best TUNBRIDGE Wells based Thomson Snell & Passmore has been recognised as one of the best law firms in the UK. The law firm, which this year celebrates its 450th anniversary – making it the oldest solicitors in the world, has been included in The Times Best Law Firms 2021. The family practice is commended as amongst the top in the country, and the only one in the county to be recognised. Only 200 of over 10,000 legal practices in England and Wales made the list, which has been compiled by national newspaper The Times as well as consumer marketing specialists Statista, and is based on the recommendations of solicitors and barristers. The rankings have been running for the past

three years, and Thomson Snell & Passmore’s family team has been commended each year. This year’s listing follows on from rankings for the firm in both The Legal 500 and Chambers UK. Thomson Snell & Passmore’s CEO, Sarah Henwood said: “This is an amazing achievement by the whole team and is especially significant as it is based on the opinions of our peers.

Pre-eminent “Recognition such as this helps to further cement our position as one of the pre-eminent law firms in the South East, and it is particularly special to once again be listed in our 450th anniversary year.”

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Foodbank expects a 200 per cent increase over Christmas By Lottie Bulmer

MANAGER Dawn Stanford

THE FOODBANK that serves Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge has seen a 100 per cent increase in demand during the Covid pandemic. Nourish Community Foodbank, predicts that this number will double during the Christmas period as Dawn Stanford, Operations Manager of the foodbank explains. She said: “We have seen an increase in demand for our services of over 100 per cent during the Covid-19 pandemic. “We have been blown away by the financial gifts and food donations that we have received from the local community to support those in need. “However, the sad reality is that numbers are rising week on week, and we are preparing to deal with a peak at Christmas where we may be delivering to around 150-200 per cent more people than an average week pre-Covid.”

Reality The foodbank has launched two campaigns to cope with the demand. The “Give £1 a day for the 12 days of Christmas” campaign gives school children the chance to collect as a class or family, where the Nourish Team will pick up their donations from schools to buy groceries for children. The second campaign encourages individuals, companies and groups who want to support those in need at Christmas in their local community. These campaigns have been designed in response to the pandemic and practice Covid safety. Dawn added: “In previous years, Nourish has run The Reverse Advent Calendar Christmas Campaign, encouraging supporters to purchase a food item a day from our most wanted list, and drop them to us to package up for people in need.

DONATIONS Some recent donations given to Nourish Community Foodbank “However, given the current restrictions, and to protect volunteers and supporters, we have made the decision not to have our usual pop-up shop. In addition, we have limited numbers of volunteers in our packing unit so we would

struggle to process all the donations in time for Christmas. “In launching these two campaigns, which are easy to get involved in, we hope that they will capture the hearts of our community, to help those less fortunate this Christmas. “Anyone interested in taking part can contact admin@ nourishcommunityfoodbank.org.uk.”

Charity workers are ‘Knock and Check’ unphased by Covid campaign success HOT FOOD remains available to the elderly in Tunbridge Wells via a charity delivery service despite the second lockdown. Age UK, Tunbridge Wells has continued to deliver hot lunch and dinner packs to elderly and vulnerable people, alongside all their usual services. They encouraged residents to keep an eye on others in the community during this particularly harsh winter

in a Facebook post. A spokesperson said: “We urge you to look out for older family and to remember older friends and neighbours who may not have this support. “We will continue to run all of our services, including our hot lunch and supper packs. “If you or someone you know could use our support then please get in touch on 01892 522 591”

Friends launch walk booklets VOLUNTEERS from a local museum have updated and reproduced a series of local walks booklets in order to fundraise for an exhibit in the museum. The Friends of Tunbridge Wells Museum have produced the book in order to raise money for the restoration of a Georgian court dress.

The books document a selection of U3A walks in the local area and cost £4.50 each.

Restoration Head over to The Friends of Tunbridge Wells Museum, Library and Art Gallery’s Facebook page for more information.

A LOCAL community foundation has launched its annual bid to help save lives this winter. With an average of 1600 avoidable deaths each year, Kent Community Foundation launched their yearly ‘Knock and Check’ campaign at the end of October to encourage people to check on their elderly neighbours and reduce this number. So far, the foundation has been overwhelmed by the positive response from local people as Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive, Kent Community Foundation, explained: “Kent Community Foundation is delighted with the overwhelming support we have received for the Knock and Check Campaign. “Our elderly neighbours were already facing a long, lonely winter but with lockdown they may become even more isolated and lonely as they are not able to see friends and family

or perhaps even leave their homes. She added the ways that people could help out those at risk: “Perhaps you could offer to do some shopping, share magazines or books, or give them something you have baked and as we approach Christmas, and many lunch clubs for the elderly will not be able to offer their usual lunches, why not cook enough for an extra plate and take a Christmas lunch to your neighbour. “And if you can’t join us to Knock and Check please consider donating to Kent Community Foundation.” There are an estimated 30,000 people in Kent aged over 65 who are suffering from acute loneliness and half a million older people go at least 5 or 6 days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone. To find out more about the Knock and Check campaign and to download the resource directory visit www.kentcf.org.uk/knockandcheck

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

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SMILES ALL ROUND Mayor Joy Podbury and Cllr David Scott with pupils from The Wells Free School in their new play area

Community clubs together for school By Millie Sanderson AN INDEPENDENT school has been the recipient of a new play area thanks to the generosity of the Tunbridge Wells community. The Wells Free School - located on the site of the old Kent and Sussex Hospital, lacked an inspiring play area until parents, teachers and local people joined forces to fundraise for a new space. Led by Maryna Cole, parent of a child at the school and Director of Atrium ECO – a sustainable building company with offices in Tunbridge Wells, the team of parents, teachers and local businesses completed the project in

the two weeks of half term in October. Mayor Joy Podbury was in attendance at the opening ceremony, on November 4, along with Councillor for Tunbridge Wells, David Scott and representatives from Atrium ECO.

‘It was really heartening seeing local people’s efforts’ Cllr David Scott explained the effects the new

play area is having on the children and the response from the community. He said: “Originally it was a very plain area with nothing inspiring at all. Now it’s finished it has even encouraged some really shy children to play. “The mean contribution was from the local businesses who put in time and effort with minimal costs. “It was really heartening to see the time and effort local people put in to finish the project.” The Wells Free school was set up in 2013 by a group of proposers in Tunbridge Wells in response to concerns of overcrowding in local schools.

Former local councillor volunteers skills in the battle against virus A FORMER Tunbridge Wells Borough Councillor has used his data analysis skills to aid the NHS in the fight against Covid-19. Edmund Hastie, who was Councillor for Goudhurst and Lamberhurst from 2011 to 2019 volunteered as soon as the call went out in the first wave. He said: “I volunteered to do anything I could to help. “That being said, I would struggle to know one end of a stethoscope from the other, but along with so many other people, just wanted to do something to help.” Now a financial advisor in London, Mr Hastie was appointed to join the Information Manoeuvre element in NHS Gold Command, using his experience of data analysis to help build graphs to plot the spread of Covid and spent 3 months volunteering at the service. “Using data to track an unknown virus was challenging, but as Covid mutates every 80 days, the challenge was even more pronounced. “We frequently hear that the Prime Minister should have ordered a lockdown one week

sooner. However, after the PM asked people to work from home, when possible, movement in the UK fell from 96 per cent to 60 per cent of normal, pre-Covid levels.

Challenging “This suggests there was a ‘voluntary lockdown’ the week before the first one was called. As such, this voluntary reduction in movement, helped contain the virus by reducing its spread and, as a result, helped ‘flatten the curve’ and ‘save lives’. He explained that his experience of the first lockdown has encouraged his passion for volunteering. He said: “I’ve volunteered to help out again in the second lockdown, in case I’m needed. “However, as the NHS is better prepared for a second wave than it was for the first, I suspect the need for volunteers will be greatly reduced.” During his eight-year tenure as councillor, Mr Hastie’s most notable impacts on the community included a charity fundraising bike ride every year.

The ride helped to raise funds for vital community projects, including restoring Goudhurst war memorial and the weathervane on top of Goudhurst village hall, buying defibrillators for the villages in his ward and building a children’s playground in Lamberhurst. STEPPING UP Former councillor for Goudhurst and Lamberhurst, Edmund Hastie

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Scotland moves 11 areas into tougher restrictions

PM ‘TROUBLED’ BY SNP’S ATTEMPTS TO SPLIT UP UK A CABINET minister has denied that the Prime Minister considers devolution to have been ‘a disaster’, but stressed he was ‘very troubled’ by Scottish nationalists’ attempts to split up the United Kingdom. SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon seized on comments made by Boris Johnson after he told Conservative MPs that devolution had been “a disaster north of the border” and called it “Tony Blair’s biggest mistake”. Downing Street sources did not deny Mr Johnson made the comments, which were first reported by the Sun, during a discussion with the Northern Research Group of backbenchers on Monday. But Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick told Sky News that was ‘not what the Prime Minister was saying’.

Arguments

A TOTAL of 11 council areas are to be placed into Scotland’s highest tier of coronavirus restrictions later this week, Nicola Sturgeon has said. The Level 4 measures, similar to a full lockdown, will apply from 6pm on Friday in Glasgow, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, East Dunbartonshire, West Dunbartonshire, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire, East Ayrshire, South Ayrshire, Stirling and West Lothian. Level 4 is the highest in Scotland’s five-tier coronavirus restriction system, which came into force on November 2 Scotland’s First Minister announced the decision to MSPs in the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday at the weekly review of the Scottish Government’s coronavirus measures. She said the ‘stubbornly and worryingly high’ infection rates in these areas mean they will move from Level 3 into Level 4 of the five-tier system. Under the Level 4 restrictions, non-essential shops will be forced to shut, with bars, restaurants, gyms, hairdressers and visitor attractions also prohibited from opening – although schools will stay open. Non-essential travel into or out of the areas will be barred- a rule which will become law from Friday and also apply to Level 3.

Ms Sturgeon said East Lothian and Midlothian will move from Level 3 to Level 2 after “marked decline” in the prevalence of the virus. The remaining 19 council areas will not change level but from Thursday people in Level 1 areas will be able to meet outdoors with up to eight people from a maximum of three households. The First Minister told MSPs: “I know people are frustrated that other restrictions have remained in place longer than planned but Level 4 is intended to be short and sharp.

Celebrations “And in this situation, it is specifically intended to have an impact in advance of Christmas and the most challenging winter period. “Lifting the Level 4 restrictions then – as we will do – also means that they will not be in place for most of the Hanukkah period – so again, while celebrations may be different, there will be a greater degree of freedom.” She added: “We will assess nearer the time the level that will apply in each area when the Level 4 restrictions end on December 11.” The First Minister said she hopes affected areas will be able to move to Level 2 “much more quickly than would otherwise be the case”.

“The Prime Minister has always supported devolution but he is at heart a unionist and he is very troubled by the rise of nationalism and separatism,” he said. In a later interview on Tuesday, Mr Jenrick also had choice words for those pushing for another independence referendum for Scotland, following 2014’s No result. He told BBC Breakfast: “I also think, frankly, that any politician who wanted to hold a referendum on a topic like this at this moment in time…is frankly, mad. “We’re in the middle of a very serious health situation, a pandemic, and we’re also seeing massive disruption to people’s lives and livelihoods as a result of the economic disruption that’s flowed with it.” Mr Johnson’s reported comments, which come just a few months before the Scottish Parliament elections next year, have caused fresh controversy over the union, with the comments being used by nationalists to back up their arguments for full autonomy. In response to the remarks, which also included Mr Johnson saying he could not “see a case” for handing down more powers, Scotland’s First Minister suggested independence was the best answer for the devolved administration. Ms Sturgeon tweeted: “Worth bookmarking these PM comments for the next time Tories say they’re not a threat to the powers of the Scottish Parliament – or, even more incredibly, that they support devolving more powers. “The only way to protect and strengthen the Scottish Parliament is with independence.”

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Divorces rise at highest rate for nearly 50 years THE number of divorces in England and Wales has seen its largest annual percentage increase in 48 years, new data shows. Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) data, published on Tuesday, showed that divorces of heterosexual couples rose by 18.4% from 90,871 in 2018 to 107,599 last year – the highest number since 2014, when 111,169 divorces were granted in England and Wales. It was also the largest annual percentage increase in the number of divorces since 1972, following the introduction of the The Divorce Reform Act 1969 which made it easier for couples to divorce upon separation, the ONS said. Meanwhile, divorces among same-sex couples in England and Wales nearly doubled, from 428 in 2018 to 822 last year.

Completed Nearly three-quarters (72%) of these were between female couples. But the ONS added that the scale of the increases in both cases can partly be attributed to divorce centres processing a backlog of casework in 2018, which was likely to have translated into a higher number of completed divorces in 2019. It added: “The size of the increase can be partly attributed to a backlog of divorce petitions from 2017 that were processed by the Ministry of Justice in early 2018, some of which will have translated into decree absolutes (completed divorces) in 2019. “This is likely to have contributed to both the particularly low number of divorces in 2018 (the lowest since 1971) and the increase seen in 2019.” In 2019, the median duration of marriage at the time of divorce for heterosexual couples fell slightly from 12.5 years in 2018 to 12.3 years.

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

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300,000 tweets flagged for election disinformation TWITTER flagged 300,000 tweets as part of efforts to combat disinformation in the period around the 2020 US election between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, the social media site’s chief executive has said. Jack Dorsey and Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg are giving evidence at a Senate Judiciary

Committee hearing called to question their companies’ actions around the closely contested election. The senators are deeply divided by party over the integrity and results of the election itself. Prominent Republican senators – including Judiciary Committee chairman Senator Lindsey Graham –

have refused to knock down President Trump’s unfounded claims of voting irregularities and fraud, even as misinformation disputing Democrat Mr Biden’s victory has flourished online. Mr Graham, a close Trump ally, has publicly urged: “Do not concede, Mr President. Fight hard.” Mr Zuckerberg and Mr Dorsey

promised legislators last month that they would aggressively guard their platforms from being manipulated by foreign governments or used to incite violence around the election results – and they followed through with high-profile steps that angered Mr Trump and his supporters. Twitter and Facebook have both

slapped a misinformation label on some content from Mr Trump, most notably his assertions linking voting by mail to fraud. On Monday, Twitter flagged Mr Trump’s tweet proclaiming “I won the Election!” with this note: “Official sources called this election differently.”

Girl 8 was killed in high winds by falling branch AN EIGHT-year-old girl was killed by a falling branch while walking dogs with her grandparents, an inquest had heard. Maisy Mayne suffered ‘catastrophic’ injuries and died instantly after being struck on the head. She had been walking with her two young siblings, their grandparents and family dogs at a wooded spot in Bobbing, Kent, in August. Her sister also sustained serious injuries including a cut to her head and had to be airlifted to hospital. The hearing was told that Maisy had been on a walk with her maternal grandparents and her

grandmother’s sister, along with two younger siblings. The inquest heard, trees were buffeted by winds between 28mph and 31mph, with gusts as high as 40mph, when a large branch became detached from a tree and fell, trapping Maisy beneath it. Assistant coroner James Dillon said: “The fact of this inquest is it’s tragic, it’s an unforeseeable tragic circumstance that Maisy happened to be beneath the tree when the branch fell. “As another parent I understand the tragedy that has unfolded here.” He recorded a conclusion of accidental death.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Anti-Semitism not exaggerated admits Corbyn JEREMY Corbyn has acknowledged that concerns around antiSemitism in Labour were not ‘exaggerated’ just weeks after being suspended for saying the problem was ‘dramatically overstated’. The former Labour leader had the whip withdrawn and was suspended from the party over his response to a damning Equality and Human Rights Commission which found that the party had broken the law in its handling of anti-Semitism complaints. The former leader had claimed that while ‘one anti-Semite is one too many’ the ‘scale of the problem was also dramatically overstated for political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party, as well as by much of the media’. His suspension came after his successor as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that people who believed it was ‘exaggerated, or a factional attack’ were ‘part of the problem’ and “should be nowhere near the Labour Party either”. Mr Corbyn revealed what he had said to Labour in a statement aimed at clarifying his comments. He said: “To be clear, concerns about anti-Semitism are neither ‘exaggerated’ nor ‘overstated’. “The point I wished to make was that the vast majority of Labour Party members were and remain committed anti-racists deeply opposed to anti-Semitism.”

Eric Hall football agent dies at 73 ERIC Hall, the former showbiz and football agent, has died aged 73 after a short illness. Hall made his entry into the music business as a tea-boy alongside a young Elton John, and would later go on to represent some of the Premier League’s biggest names in the 1990s. His death was announced by the radio station where he worked, Time 107.5FM. Famed for a trademark cigar and ‘Monster, monster’ catchphrase, he made deals on behalf of household names Dennis Wise, Tim Sherwood and Neil Ruddock. Tributes to Hall have been paid by Sir Alan Sugar, who called him a ‘real character’, while Stan Collymore tweeted: “Larger than life, great, great fun, sad to think Eric Hall has passed.”

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Dolly Parton has donated $1million A ONE million US dollar donation by Dolly Parton appears to have helped fund the production of a promising new Covid vaccine. In April, the country singer announced she had donated the sum to Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville, Tennessee, for coronavirus research. This week, US company Moderna announced its coronavirus vaccine may be 94.5% effective against Covid-19, and Parton is namechecked in the preliminary report.

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HERE, WE LOOK AT FOUR WAYS TO RETHINK YOUR FINANCES AS YOU APPROACH RETIREMENT 1. LOOK AT YOUR INCOME OPTIONS You may have been furloughed, faced a salary cut, or lost your job entirely during the crisis. Meanwhile, any income stream from dividends may have ground to a halt. However, there may be other ways to produce an income. For example, you can earn up to £7,500 per year under the Rent a Room scheme by renting out a spare room, tax-free. Alternatively, you may be able to boost your income through part-time work, for example, into retirement. The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested. Opinions expressed in this document are not necessarily the views held throughout Brewin Dolphin Ltd. This information is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. No investment is suitable in all cases and if you have any doubts as to an investment’s suitability then you should contact us. The information contained in this document

CONTACT:

2. RETHINK FUTURE SPENDING The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has underlined the importance of having a source of easily accessible savings. It’s generally considered sensible to have a savings pot worth around six months’ income set aside. But you may want a bigger cash cushion. You could set up a direct debit, for example, to send 5% of your monthly income into a savings pot.

is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness. Please note that this document was prepared as a general guide only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. While we believe it to be correct at the time of writing, Brewin Dolphin is not a tax adviser and tax law is subject to frequent change. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances; therefore you should not rely on

3. REASSESS YOUR APPETITE FOR RISK The crisis may have prompted you to consider whether you are still comfortable with the level of risk in your investments, particularly as you approach retirement. However, beware of making any major decisions alone, without guidance. You may want to seek reassurance from a financial adviser to ensure your plan is on the right track.

this information without seeking professional advice from a qualified tax adviser. Brewin Dolphin Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange, and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register reference number: 124444). Registered office: 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD. Registered in England and Wales no. 2135876.

Graeme Hayden • Graeme.hayden@brewin.co.uk • Tel. 01892 739580 Louise Shaw • Louise.shaw@brewin.co.uk • Tel. 01892 739580

4. MAXIMISE TAX ALLOWANCES We each have a myriad of tax allowances to take advantage of. For example, if you are married or in a civil partnership, assets can be transferred to your partner so that both your annual capital gains tax (CGT) allowances (amounting to £12,300 in the 2020/21 tax year) are used.

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

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EasyJet nosedives £1.3bn into the red LOW-COST carrier easyJet has slumped to the first ever full-year loss in its 25-year history as the coronavirus crisis sent it nosediving into the red by £1.27billion. The group’s pre-tax loss for the year to September 30 comes after passenger numbers halved to 48.1 million as the pandemic crippled the aviation industry. It warned it expects to fly no more than around 20 per cent of planned services in the first quarter of its year to next September as a relentless second wave of the pandemic batters demand. EasyJet’s losses compare with profits of £430 million the previous year. On an underlying basis, easyJet reported pre-tax losses of £835 million against profits of £427 million the previous year, which was in line with expectations.

Demand The airline’s shares fell 3% in early trading. Johan Lundgren, easyJet chief executive, said the group had responded “robustly and decisively” to the virus crisis and cheered “welcome news” on a possible Covid-19 vaccine. He said: “While we expect to fly no more than 20% of planned capacity for the first quarter of 2021, maintaining our disciplined approach to cash generative flying over the winter, we retain the flexibility to rapidly ramp up when demand returns. “We know our customers want to fly with us and underlying demand is strong.” He added the group expected to ‘bounce back’. EasyJet’s capacity outlook for the quarter to the

end of December marks a downgrade on earlier forecasts, having previously expected to fly around 25% of planned services. It comes after the group flew just 38% of its planned capacity between July and September – normally the peak summer holiday season. EasyJet said there had been some recovery in demand over the summer, but that ‘widespread quarantine measures introduced in September once again eroded demand’. The Luton-based carrier saw a 10-fold increase in bookings for Canary Islands flights in the five days after the UK announced on October 23 it was lifting quarantine restrictions. It boosted its capacity by 180,000 seats within 24 hours to ‘harness the demand’. Overall bookings were up 50% last week following news of a major breakthrough in the search for a coronavirus vaccine. Passenger numbers in the year ending September 30 decreased by 50.0% to 48.1 million, compared with 96.1 million during the previous 12 months.

Vape sales down but cigarette demand up TOBACCO giant Imperial Brands has revealed that sales lifted higher over the past year as solid demand for tobacco offset weakness in its e-cigarette operations. SMOKING SALES Tobacco sales have risen for Imperial

It reported that group revenue increased by 0.8% to £7.98 billion for the year to September 30, after tobacco revenues rose by 1.8%. Meanwhile, its Next Generation Products (NGP) business, which includes e-cigarettes and other products, saw sales slide by 27% after suffering a sharp decline in the first half of the year. Nevertheless, adjusted operating profits declined by 5.7% to £3.5 billion, as it was impacted by lower profit on tobacco due to “Covid-19 and regulatory costs”. The group told investors it expects to return to growth during the next financial year. Last month, the group also sold its premium cigar business for around 1.2 billion euros (£1.1 billion).

Woman takes Council to court over Gatwick drilling A WOMAN has begun a High Court fight over oil drilling near Gatwick and raised concern about the impact of greenhouse gas. Sarah Finch has challenged Surrey County Council’s decision to allow a well six miles from her home in Redhill, Surrey, to be extended. She has told a judge that council bosses failed to assess “the indirect greenhouse gas impacts” and did not take into account environmental protection objectives and the need to address the “climate crisis”. Council bosses, who gave Horse Hill Developments permission to extend drilling at

Horse Hill, Surrey, dispute her claim. Mr Justice Holgate began overseeing a remote High Court hearing on Tuesday. “In short, the claimant’s case is that the defendant wholly failed to assess the greenhouse impacts of the development arising from the combustion of the oil,” said Marc Willers QC, who is leading Ms Finch’s legal team. “The case thus concerns a patent defect in the environmental impact assessment.” Lawyers representing the council say Ms Finch’s approach to the interpretation of environmental impact requirements is ‘misguided’.

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Education

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EDUCATION Times

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

PAYING RESPECTS Wreaths were laid at the war memorial in Crowborough

We will remember them Beacon Academy commemorates Remembrance 2020 with a livestreamed virtual community celebration ON ARMISTICE DAY, students, staff and trustees from Beacon Academy in Crowborough joined together online with parents and carers, primary schools, community groups and members of the public to commemorate Remembrance 2020 with a livestream public event. The online event, broadcast via Microsoft Teams, followed a virtual school assembly led by Teacher of History, Alex Braidwood, and opened with an introduction from a Year 10 student, Sam, who is also a member of the RAF Air Cadets 1414 (Crowborough). Beacon Academy Headteacher, Anna Robinson, and Head of History, Cate Kennedy each gave a short presentation focusing on the importance of remembering and reflecting on the courage and sacrifice of those who served their countries. Mrs Kennedy conveyed moving and inspirational stories of two family members, stating: “You may not know anyone personally who has been a part of war, but remembering, researching and listening to stories will hopefully

your life.’ Anna Robinson welcomed parents and members of the local and wider community to the event, including the children and staff of Sir Henry Fermor CE Primary School, St Mary’s Catholic

“You may not know anyone who has been a part of war, but remembering and researching stories will widen your world a little bit.” LEST WE FORGET: Students from Beacon Academy in Crowborough took part in an online community Remembrance Service earlier this month widen your world a little bit.” Mrs Kennedy encouraged students to ‘Take this week to ask questions of relatives of their own experiences. Make remembrance an active part of

Primary School and St John’s CE Primary School. She also acknowledged the presence of members of Crowborough’s Royal British Legion, Air Cadets 1414 Crowborough Squadron, 1st Crowborough Scout Group and All Saints Church as well as Crowborough Town Council. Speaking about Remembrance and

the two-minute silence, Ms Robinson encouraged students to ‘think of it as an act of kindness,’ adding: “Giving our time, especially in the 21st century, is just as important as it has ever been. As future generations, we have a responsibility to work relentlessly for the peace that they fought so hard to achieve.” Members of the Student Leadership Team, Year 11 students, Charlie, Bethany and Ethan, performed a poignant reading of In Flanders Fields, by John McCrae, before a playing of The Last Post and the two-minute silence, which was accompanied by a display of images of war and remembranceinspired artworks created by students. Head of Personal Development at Beacon Academy, Lorna Miller, concluded the event with a recitation of the Kohima Epitaph and information about how it is possible

to support the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal this year, despite the restrictions due to the current pandemic: “We are so pleased that, whilst not physically together, we could gather virtually. Remembering those who we have sadly lost during the pandemic also plays a part this year, as we give thanks to the armed forces and NHS for protecting our national life. It feels even more important in 2020, and on Remembrance Day, to pay tribute to all those who risked their lives, and continue to do so, in the service of our country.” To watch the event recording visit: https://youtu.be/fTMOLN-E8wE If you would like to make a donation to the 2020 Poppy Appeal, visit https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/ get-involved/poppy-appeal.

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Letters

NEWS

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

The Lib Dems only know how to vote no Planning Committee voted against the I read with deep sadness [see below Nov 4–17] £25million motor village near the A21, putting about the £300million of investment our town the investment and local jobs at risk. has lost over the last year. They clearly know how to vote no. But what As the leader of the Council pointed out, the do the Lib Dems bring to the table? catalyst for the town’s downturn in fortunes The answer is not much. When the old was the local election in May 2019. New cinema site went back on the market, one Lib councillors were elected who know how to Dem Councillor suggested the plot be oppose but have no positive ideas of their own. I must single out the local Liberal Democrats permanently turned into a ‘meadow of wild flowers’. Another took to social media to for particular criticism. They shamelessly promote cycling. turned tail and opposed Calverley Square in This shows where their priorities lie. The search of a few extra votes. local Liberal Democrats are interested in As well as killing off that project, they tried butterflies and bicycles - but couldn’t care less to remove Council support for the Assembly about the local economy. Hall and Trinity Theatres, putting both at risk Cllr Matthew Bailey of permanent closure. FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Conservative councillor Tunbridge Wells And Lib Dem councillors on the Council’s 4 all NEWS Local News

Town loses out on £300million of investments in 12 months By Richard Williams THE total amount of development investments lost to Tunbridge Wells in just over a year, now totals more than a quarter of a billion pounds. Last week councillors rejected planning permission for a £25million car dealership in Pembury. Hendy Group had wanted to build a ‘motor village’ and said the development would create 50 jobs and help retain 130 more. They also believed it would bring around £500,000 of economic benefits to the town each year.

articles specifically covering Tunbridge Wells on this issue since 2018. Lance Goodship, Tunbridge Wells

Masks should be compulsory It needs to be said that shops, offices, cafes, bars, restaurants, shopping centres etc are private premises, the public is there as a guest, under sufferance and subject to the constraints the premises’ owners may choose to impose (reasonable, of course). So if said premises state ‘wear masks’, ‘use hand-sanitiser’, we must do so or face eviction. If said premises are enacting strict rules laid down by the government then it behoves everybody to follow those rules, ignoring them places an invidious and unfair burden on the staff of these places. People who ignore the rules deserve the greatest censure. November 4 | government 2020 OnWednesday this theme: the is spending a vast amount of taxpayers’ money on advertising have either been scrapped, postponed, or telling usover to 12wear downgraded in a little months.masks; it’s a good idea and A number of projects are continuing in the known to be effective, why not make wearing borough, including the £19million Amelia Scott culturalthem hub in the town centre, along with compulsory, both indoors and out? similar community hubs in Southborough, If they’re waiting for everyone to ‘do the right Paddock Wood and Cranbrook. Dandara’s residential development the site that gets us. They thing’ we’ve seen atwhere of the former Union House by The Pantiles is also ongoing. should make it compulsory and save the money, or shut up and save the money. Central Ralph Steerpike, Tunbridge Wells But the fate of £200million Kingstanding Business Park on 30 acres of Green Belt in Colebrook Lakes in the North Farm area of Tunbridge Wells is yet to be decided. The development, if approved, could create up to 4,000 jobs for the Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge regions and attract businesses into the area. The business park would also secure the future of Childrensalon in the town, one of Tunbridge Wells’ largest employers, who may decide to move elsewhere if the business park plans are shelved, taking 500 jobs with them. The Kingstanding development is also central to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s commitment in its draft Local Plan to grow jobs and the economy. The decision to grant planning permission will hinge on whether developers U & I Group, can satisfy an objection by Kent Highways and Highways England on the impact the park will have on the road network around the junction to the A21. If the project fails to get approval, it will mean close to £500,000,000 of investment in Tunbridge Wells will have been lost since 2019.

Our election system is fair

Blocked Residents should steer developments

councillors who voted against the proposed But last Wednesday [October 28], councillors scheme, and hope that future council planning Councillor McDermott seems voted by eight votes to three to reject theunable to dealership’s plans, were earmarked a residents and decisions will reflect our need for clean comprehend thatwhich it must be forforthe DOWNGRADE site near to Tesco. British Land infrastructure and active travel. businesses of this to isadvise the council The decision to rejectBorough the motor village only invested just the latest in a number of investments that have Adrian Thorne on the direction vis-à-vis £11million in RVP either been blockedof or travel pulled from Tunbridge the Wells in a littleof over 12 months. Tunbridge Wells Friends of the Earth development our town and its surrounds. And last year, at the end of October, units and restaurant. At the end of September this year, Elysian From before thetoCalverley Square councillors voted to scrap the £108million Earlier and in the year, British Land finished an Residences decided put the site of the former fiasco Calverley Square theatre and civic centre, £11million renovation to Royal Victoria Place ABC Cinema on Mount Pleasant Road back on morethe recently, there has been scant consultation No amention of party’s anti-Semitism despite the Council having invested £11million shopping centre, after shelving much bolder market. in developing the project. Party’s Mike by former owners Theyelectorate had been planning £80million with the onanhow they want£70million this upgrade proposed I was surprised that the Labour In total, £283million worth of developments retirement complex complete with cinema, retail Hermes, which would have included a cinema. community to develop and yet there seems to be Tapp missed the opportunity to address the an air of surprise and disappointment from the crisis within hisCOUNCILLORS party in last hisweek Weekly Comment Group, said: “We are disappointed that the voted to block the village denied in favour of Park and Ride planned £25million motor village in Pembury. Planning Committee has failed to listen to the currentMotor leader of our Council. piece. The committee heard that the Council had recommendation of its planning officers and So, when I wonder, will he and his team bring Only a few days earlier, the Equalities and received around 550 official objections to the rejected our proposals to invest £25million in REJECTED development, mainly from Pembury residents the borough and play our part in sustaining the The Pembury Motor Village about this consultation which could bring a raft Human Rights Commission (EHRC) had who feared the plans will only add traffic to the local economy. already congested of ideas and enable future planning policy to published a damning reportA264. into anti-Semitism They were also concerned the site had Committed coincide with the will of the people, or is that during the Jeremy Corbyn era. It for found the previously been earmarked a Park and Ride in Tunbridge Wells. “At a time when unemployment in the borough taking democracy too far? Labour Party and its agents had engaged in After nearly four hours, the committee decided has risen by 975 to 3,310 people in the last year to reject the application following a proposal by and the country faces economic uncertainty it is Martin Dawes, Tunbridge Wells unlawful discrimination and harassment against Labour’s Sherwood councillor, Hugo Pound. frankly disappointing to see the councillors Jewish members He that breached Equality asked the committee the to refuse planning Actreject the creation of 50 new jobs in the town, permission based on the ‘balance that the and strengthen the 130-strong Hendy team. 2010. We’re glad dealership was blocked social, economic and environmental benefits “We are absolutely committed to preserving were not investigation, achieved and that thereand were not Despite a 17-month despitethe employment of all of our colleagues in the Tunbridge Wells Friends of the Earth group exceptional grounds which warranted borough and will continue to fight for their similar whistle-blower from within the would like to express their support at the refusal overturning claims the current allocation of the site as a futures. potential Park and Ride location’. will now consider our options, and should party, Jeremy Corbyn carried on claiming the we“We by Tunbridge Wells Council of planning Hendy Group has said they were now decide to appeal we are confident that we considering their but “dramatically have not ruled out would win.” anti-Semitism problem hadoptions been permission for a new ‘motor village’ in Pembury. an appeal. For more on motor village plans, see And suspended from the partyAnother Thing … page 21. The Pembury Rd area is already congested, and overstated” and was Paul Hendy, Managing Director of Hendy he’d led only 6 months earlier. the health of residents and the many children This was all happening as Mr Tapp penned his who travel to school in the area should be given priority. It is vital that we work towards reducing article. Perhaps in their next Weekly Comment piece, the Tunbridge Wells Labour Party can let our emissions and pollution - the fight against owners of RVP] who have subsequently stopped THE Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council their £80million and thewhere owners they stand on anti-Semitism, and has pinned the blame for developers pullingCOVID19 out us know the virulent respiratory disease only redevelopment, cinema site who are trying to sell.” of the town to the cancellation of the Calverley underlines our need for clean air. ofHetheadded that the latest whether decision not tothey grant fully and unequivocally accept the Square development. motorfindings village Alan McDermott sayspublicly a number of projects in all planning EHRC’s given the number of press We would like to thank thosepermission for Hendy’s has put at risk £800,000 of community the town have been abandoned following the

I will not compliment your writer I note that the new homes in Westbury House [October 28] will compliment (sic) the busy lifestyle of the town. ‘Well, you look very smart.” “Why thank you, you look pretty good yourself.” I’m sure your writer meant complement, but homophones can be confusing – aisle sight sum examples if ewe like. Edward Baker, Tunbridge Wells

Why are we doing Council’s work On parking my car in the John Street car park this morning (Friday) I noticed that two ladies, each with two large refuse sacks (one for recyclable waste), were picking up the cans, cartons, bottles and other pieces of discarded debris that littered the area. They are local residents who like most of us care about the appearance of our town and in particular that part in which we live. They do not get paid for doing this just as we do not get paid for keeping our pavements swept and cleared of weeds. It seems anomalous therefore that our County Councillors expect to carry on being paid by us when they are no longer in office while essential services are steadily reduced due to lack of funds. Victor Bethell, Tunbridge Wells

CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)

I recommend that those such as Martin Dawes, who criticise our electoral system, watch the three series of the Danish political drama ‘Borgen’. This is well written, with an excellent cast, sympathetic characters, and with compelling storylines, but for those with an interest in politics, it explodes the myth that proportional representation somehow achieves a fairer result. Once the elections are over the plethora of small parties indulge in horse trading, in order to arrive at a majority government, seeking policy compromises, and political appointments,

thus undermining the very platforms upon which they stood. The result is that, for example, one might vote for a Centre Left party, only to see it support right wing policies so that its elected representatives might enjoy some of the fruits of power. There is no perfect system, but ‘first past the post’ usually results in a stronger government, while it should be recognised that the main parties of right and left do generally represent a coalition of ideas, within a philosophical framework clearly understood by electorates. Colin Bullen, Tonbridge

Voting down of theatre project led to developers withdrawing decision to cancel the £108million theatre and civic centre project last October. The project was scrapped at a cost of £11million.

improvements, which would have been paid by the developers under Section 106 rules.

He said: “Hendy’s £25million investment had a However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words We do our best to publish letters in full.

Decision Cllr McDermott told the Times: “The election of May 2019 changed the political balance of the Borough Council. With the Conservative Group losing 13 seats and with many of the new Councillors against the Calverley Square project the decision was made at full Council not to go ahead. “Calverley Square would have brought up to £40million a year into the town and was supported by many businesses including British Land [the

considerable number of vocal locals against it, but it would have secured 150 jobs and brought a further 30 jobs and apprenticeships into the Borough at a time when unemployment is rising particularly in the young. “The planning decision to turn down the application puts at risk the £800,000 of local improvements, with no guarantee that we will receive it if there is an appeal and the Planning Inspector approves the planning application. “In the future, as in the past, as a Council we are still determined to remain a destination town and support developers and local businesses.”

THE PIANO SHOP GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Calverley Square would have generated £40million

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James Rands

Liberal Democrat councillor for Culverden

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

James Rands was born in Pembury and educated at the Skinners’ School prior to reading for a first degree at King’s and joining the Army. He moved back to Tunbridge Wells in 2018 and won Culverden ward for the Liberal Democrats in May 2020. He is now the chairman of the local party.

The Calverley Square project needs to be buried for good AT THE end of 2019 the accelerating costs of the Tories’ Calverley Square (building offices and a theatre in Calverley Grounds) meant the full council were forced to vote to approve or cancel the scheme and we chose the latter. We all expected some kick back but assumed it would be short-lived. One opposition councillor half-joked everyone would have forgotten about the whole thing by next election and that was to the Tories’ benefit. But the Tories can’t leave it alone. During lockdown it was tentatively put forward as a ‘shovel ready’ project. This week we’ve had the leader of the Council assert without evidence that developers have backed off from the Old Cinema Site, because Calverley Square didn’t go ahead. At a recent briefing on the Old Cinema Site Conservative councillors implored us to read the Calverley Square documents to understand why developing the Old Cinema Site would be so problematic. Everyone else wants to move on and had assumed this was a dead issue. Yet we keep having to come back to it. The problem with Calverley Square was it was a daft idea; building a theatre to host ‘West End Shows’ which was too small for big productions

and opposite the station that takes you directly into the actual West End. We should consider novel ideas, but reading the documents strongly suggests people got wedded to a bad idea and tried to make reality fit their scheme and not vice versa. Besides the £11 million spent, it was a colossal waste of time and energy. There’s a lot of good things going on in Tunbridge Wells, which the council is either the lead for or could assist with.

Lessons Whilst the council fixated on a bad scheme, they neglected the Sherwood BMX track, the farmers’ market was told to close as no space was available (space was subsequently found), the Amelia Scott’s cost has spiralled, that sort-of pedestrianisation of the area in front of the War Memorial was and remains a mess. It’s hard not to conclude that focussing on one big project was to the detriment of everything else. Yes, we should learn the lessons (the correct lessons) from a failed project. But we need to move on. The town and borough face real challenges, which won’t be fixed by continually fighting yesterday’s battles.

Matthew Scott Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent

SCRAPPED The failed theatre and civic centre project

Matthew Scott was elected the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent in 2016. He sets policing priorities, commissions services to support victims, sets the council tax precept, manages the force’s budget, and holds the Chief Constable to account. He serves as the national PCC lead for Mental Health, and is chair of the board for the BlueLight Commercial organisation.

Charities working in the pandemic deserve thanks I BELIEVE that the role of Police and Crime Commissioner is to be a voice for local residents, victims of crime and our neighbourhood and community groups in policing and criminal justice. Our work with victims of crime has become even more important during the pandemic, ensuring that people have access to the support they need whether they report crime to the police or not. This has been the case especially with domestic abuse, where we have seen a rise in the number of incidents reported to the police. I have secured a significant amount of extra money from the Government in order to support the policing response to the pandemic and provide extra services to victims of crime. This has been mainly focused on helping victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence. Local charities have done an excellent job in responding to the challenges of helping vulnerable people since the lockdown started in March. DAVSS, based in Tunbridge Wells, has seen an increase in the number of hours volunteered to help victims, an outstanding response to deal with the increase in calls they’ve received. And Rubicon Cares saw an increase in referrals too – and have been very successful in helping people with their mental health.

These charities, and the others who have been delivering for victims during the pandemic deserve our thanks for what they continue to do. And as we’re now in another lockdown, it’s important to highlight the good work that Kent Police have been doing. The teams that contribute towards recruitment and training have been brilliant, and I’m pleased to report that Kent now has more Police Officers than ever before – and more still being recruited.

Vulnerable The Crime Squad has secured more arrests, charges and convictions of burglars, robbers and thieves, making our county safer by bringing these offenders to justice. The County Line and Gang Team has shut down a number of county lines operating in Kent, taking drugs and weapons off of our streets. Local teams continue to be proactive in your local neighbourhood, tackling antisocial behaviour, improving road safety, helping vulnerable people and remaining out on the beat. Officers, staff and volunteers deserve our thanks too. Their response to the pandemic itself remains the same as it has been throughout. Continuing the job of policing through the pandemic and

working with the public to keep them safe. And when it comes to the guidelines, their approach will be the same too – engaging with those suspected of breaching the rules, educating them and encouraging them to comply, and if it is then necessary, enforcement. I believe this is the right way.

Kent Police remains open for recruitment, with vacancies for Police Officers, PCSOs and other staff roles. Visit www.kent.police.uk to find out more. And remember – if you or someone you know needs help, it is available. Call Victim Support Kent on 0808 168 9276. HELPING HAND DAVSS has seen an increase in cases [DAVSS Chief Executive Henu Cummins pictured]

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Interiors

Delights of Downsizing

Why this local couple chose to remain close to the town Page 24

Snuggle up

How to make your home a haven of heat this winter Page 26

Homes & Interiors

Property Focus NEW S

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Why retired businessman is to move into Dandara’s jewel in the crown Former Tunbridge Wells jeweller, Richard Burrell tells the Times why he’s decided to buy one of the new developments on The Pantiles By Lottie Bulmer RETIRED jeweller, Richard Burrell and his family have run Burrells Jewellers in the town for nearly 60 years. With a previous branch in Royal Victoria Place and later a Chapel Place shop, the family are stalwarts of the town’s local business community. After retiring in September and passing the baton of their remaining branch, Gabriella, over to daughter, Gabby, Richard and his wife Caroline were looking to downsize for their retirement. He said: “After having lived in some of the best addresses in Tunbridge Wells for over 25 years including Calverley Park, Hungershall Park and most recently Nevill Park, we knew as soon as we saw the Dandara development that it would be perfect for our next move. We hadn’t seen any other development like it before.

Downsize “We wanted to downsize but only for something that would provide us with a high-quality build. “The penthouse we chose at 1887 The Pantiles gave us exactly that. We loved that it also had outdoor space, we chose one with a huge terrace and the best view in the development overlooking The Pantiles. “We always knew we wanted to stay in Tunbridge Wells and The Pantiles is such a beautiful and special place to live in the heart of the town. It has a huge array of thriving eateries and an eclectic range of chic and independent shops. “I have been in the jewellery industry for almost 60 years and had my shop Burrells in Tunbridge Wells for 25 years. Although my daughter has now taken over the ownership, it is still nice to be in the area

HIDDEN GEMS: Retired jeweller, Richard Burrell and his wife Caroline have downsized

where we have the shop. “The location of the penthouse is perfect for what we want and need now, and we see ourselves living here hassle free for a long time. It is ideal for us not having to drive as all the amenities are on our doorstep. If we do need to travel further afield, a five-minute walk takes you to Tunbridge Wells station.” The new 1887 development is situated on the site of ‘The Pump Room’ – a 19th Century live music hall and jazz club, which was once the centre of the spa town’s cultural scene. The development is due to be completed this winter and aims to honour the site’s history by using its purpose designed

A FAMILY AFFAIR: Richard with daughter Gabby Taylor who took over management of the shop in Chapel Place

outdoor cultural space where residents can come together to enjoy live performances and events. Associate Sales & Marketing Director at Dandara South East, Louise Norman, explained: “Once the epicentre of fashion, the site for our 1887 The Pantiles development is set for a revival, and will serve the community as a home, cultural centre, and meeting place. “It is no wonder that it attracts local downsizers like Richard and Caroline, looking to be a part of this fashionable buzzing new community. “Whilst this landmark development has been inspired by the past, it is designed for the future.”

Kent buyers favour New homes must remain size over location adaptable to the future ALMOST a fifth of people in Kent would compromise on distance from work for more space when buying a new home. Eighteen per cent of those living in Kent said they would compromise on a longer commute for more space when they bought a new property because they expect to continue working from home. This comes from new research from Barratt Homes and GoodMore Global. Twenty-one per cent of people who work from home three days a week, would make the compromise, rising to 25 per cent of those working from five days a week. A third (29 per cent) of people from Kent are expecting to continue working from home post-lockdown. Those who think they’ll work from home more are most likely to be looking to move home with a third of those expecting to work from home three or more days a week

declare themselves more likely to move house than before the pandemic Natalie Perry, Sales and Marketing Director for Barratt Kent, explained the reasons behind these figures. She said: “Lockdown has clearly been a massive change for most companies with the decanting of offices in towns and cities as people increasingly work remotely. “This is changing people’s views on how and where they want to live by not being tied to their office. “Those who’ve been on the fence about leaving a big town or city may take this second announcement as the push they need to make their move. “The survey results show there is a desire to move and combined with current stamp duty savings available, it’s helping to keep the housing market buoyant even in the midst of a second lockdown.”

NEW residential developments face a future of challenges new research has shown. According to a report by Savills, which has offices in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks, the new build sector has recovered well from the initial slowdown at the beginning of the year but still faces many challenges.

Worries Savills estimates that 212,000 homes will be built in the year to March 2021, down 17 per cent than in the previous 12 months. But with starts running at just 47 per cent of pre-Covid levels, there is a significant risk to 2021-2022 delivery unless house builder

BUILDING UP: Developments in Tunbridge Wells must be adaptable to the upcoming challenges in the market confidence improves. Worries stem from the withdrawal of the government’s Help to Buy scheme in 2023 and the constant uncertainty Covid brings, as Ian Fowler, Head of Development in the South East explains.

He said: “The development industry faces three major challenges: meeting buyers’ evolving priorities, adapting to changes to Help to Buy and ensuring that supply is not adversely disrupted by Covid-19 and the resulting economic challenges.

“In the private sales market the mix and design of what is built will need to adapt to meet changing preferences and budgets, and appeal to a broader range of buyers while retaining existing buyer groups. “To meet targets, delivery of all tenures will need to increase, including affordable, forward-funded build to rent and homes for the over-55s.” Help to Buy has contributed to significantly boosting new build’s share of all home sales, from 10 per cent between 2010 and 2012 to 15 per cent in 2019, allowing many people to get on to the housing ladder or buy a larger property than they might have bought in the second hand market.

The one where the tenant leaves early... Change is a constant! Tenants find a property to buy, outgrow a flat, get a job in another town, need to move nearer family etc. and request an early end to their tenancy. Landlords are often concerned but at Belvoir we know that when managed well it can be favourable to both landlord and tenant. A fixed term tenancy agreement provides security to tenants and, importantly to landlords, it provides security of rental income and when to expect a break/plan maintenance or a refurbishment. So when a tenant asks to leave their tenancy early, a landlord has a right to say no but there is no need to do this and sour the relationship with the tenant for the remainder of the term.

2. The tenant has to pay the landlord ‘fair costs’: pro-rata the costs that the landlord incurs in having to manage a new tenancy e.g. the letting fee and the inventory. Fees that would normally be all down to the landlord.

procedures to manage a request for early release, including making sure the request comes from all tenants so we don’t end up with a tenant returning from overseas to find someone else in their living room!

3. Void periods between tenancies can be costly for landlords. In the case of tenants leaving early, they are invested in finding their replacement so should be accommodating on viewings. Managed effectively, the current tenant can move out and be replaced by a new tenant in few days.

We are currently offering a 3 months free trial of our full management service for landlords! Trial our excellent customer service and see if you are ready to move your property to a ‘safe pair of hands’ who will take on the pressure of all the legislative changes, inspections, handle tenant changes and on-going property maintenance management. Simply drop us an email on tunbridgewells@belvoir.co.uk or call the office on 01892 615333.

5 REASONS WHY WE CONSIDER IT ADVISABLE TO LET A TENANT LEAVE EARLY:

5. Early termination leaves an opportunity for a Landlord to review the rent charged. It may be possible to increase the rent earlier than anticipated depending on the state of the market and any property improvements undertaken.

1. Tenants are liable for rent and utility bills until a replacement tenant can be found or the end of their tenancy, whichever is sooner so a landlord can’t be out of pocket.

4. It’s most unlikely that your tenant will want to leave immediately so there is usually plenty of time for Belvoir to find a suitable new tenant and allow the current tenant to be released.

At Belvoir we have a tried and tested set of

Belvoir! Case Study

One tenant asked if he could be released from his tenancy early following a change in his circumstances, related to Covid-19. The landlord agreed and we immediately started marketing (at a slightly increased rent). A suitable new tenant was found and moved in within a month of the tenant asking to be released. The landlord was able to recoup some of his costs, had no void period and is now receiving a higher monthly rent. He said “It was quite involved to have our tenant leave “mid-term”, but hopefully we now have a reliable tenant who will stay with us for a while. With repeated thanks for all your help and guidance”

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

How to cosy up your home during winter

As if 2020 wasn’t tricky enough, it’s about to get rather chilly, says Luke Rix-Standing

will be letting heat out as well as letting cold in, and driving up your heating bill. Silicone sealant or self-adhesive strips can easily plug slits and unsightly gaps around your windows, and are straightforward to apply. Full-blown cracks in the masonry can be filled with dollops of cement or hard-setting filler, but you may wish to call in a professional to find out what caused the rupture. If in doubt, ask your local hardware store what product suits your needs. Remember not to block intentional ventilation designed to let air out of your home, such as extractor fans, designated wall vents, and underfloor grilles. Doors are harder to seal, for obvious reasons, but a simple draught excluder (or even a well-rolled towel) can block breezes blowing beneath them. A metal keyhole cover can close another common crevice, as can a letterbox brush. If you have a chimney you do not use, it’s easy access for chills. Chimney draught excluders start at around £15 – exactly the amount the Energy Saving Trust estimate the device could cut from your heating bill every year.

Smart heating If you do still regularly leave home, a smart thermostat can target your heating to ensure you’re only using (and paying for) what you need. An early standard bearer for the smart revolution, these gadgets will connect your heating system to an app on your smartphone, allowing you to schedule your heating to come on ahead of time, or simply turn it on when you’re heading home. Many modern models can heat room-by-room, and it’s remarkable to think that a mere decade ago, these go-to gizmos were seen as the peak of domestic tech.

‘The oldest route to warmth by some margin, there’s no beating the primal pleasures of a roaring hearth’

F THERE’S one positive of winter lockdown, it’s that we’re not missing much in the weather department. Outside our four walls, the sky is turning a miserable shade of grey, while darkness falls before the end of most working days. All the more reason, therefore, to make sure our homes are ready to fight the elements, and reduce your bills and carbon emissions at the same time. Here’s how to stay snug, without a bug, but still in a rug, during a winter that’s even more indoor than usual…

Spread the soft furnishings We’ve all felt the short, sharp shock of walking on a cold morning floor, and rugs are particularly effective at snugging up your surfaces. The material acts as an effective extra layer of insulation, and keeps your toes toasty at any time of day. Tapestries and wall hangings behave like rugs for your walls, limiting conductive heat loss through poorly-insulated masonry. The thicker and heavier the material, the more effective it will be, and a woven quilt will keep you far cosier than a poster or print. If you think warmer, you’ll probably feel warmer, and a fresh lick of paint in a bright, vibrant colour can work wonders – all the better if you illuminate it with warm, yellow light.

Dress your windows Just as furry fabrics can cold-proof floors and walls, so too can it shore up your windows. A

Friendly fire simple set of curtains form an added layer of heat retention, while blinds and sealed shutters are almost as effective at stopping draughts. For the best results, pick up curtains with specific thermal linings – often filled with high-density foam or wool. If you are willing to embark on structural changes, double or triple glazing are obvious options for a more temperate front room. This is not a DIY job, but the extra glass spares you unwanted noise too, and the work should pay for itself in reduced energy bills within a few years. The exact numbers vary by dwelling, but the Energy Saving Trust estimates that double glazing bags annual savings of £100-£115 for a detached house, £70-£85 for a semi, and £30-£40 for a mid-floor flat.

Embrace insulation Proper wall insulation is quite an undertaking, and would likely mean getting the builders in, but poorly insulated brickwork spends the long winter evenings absolutely haemorrhaging heat. In an uninsulated home, approximately 25% of heat loss takes place through the roof, and a thick layer of mineral wool in your loft should last a good four decades and pay for itself many times over. Though perfectly possible, DIY loft insulation is for experienced home improvers only, and if you wouldn’t know where to begin, you probably shouldn’t. If your attic is suffering from damp, or the

joists aren’t easily accessible, we strongly recommend calling in the pros. Your walls can be similarly streamlined, though how much you stand to gain depends on the structure of your home. Homes built after the 1920s probably come with cavity walls – two layers of material with air in between – and insulation installation should pay for itself in five years or less. Older homes likely sport solid walls, which benefit just as much from insulation, but are trickier and less lucrative. If you have chilly feet and deep pockets, you could even install underfloor heating. We’re not even going to touch on the process – just call a builder.

Close up the cracks If a windy day is accompanied by whistling sounds, or the regular chill of a draught, there are probably holes in your home exterior that

The oldest route to warmth by some margin, there’s no beating the primal pleasures of a roaring hearth. As common in medieval banqueting halls as modern living rooms, wood fires are easy on the eyes and the ears, but require you to buy and ignite your own logs, and can clog the chimney with soot. A compromise between warmth and low maintenance, gas fires spent years at the head of the pack, though they do require annual check-ups and professional installation. Electric fires can’t compete for heat, but are cleaner and usually more eco-friendly. Finally, there are biofuel fires – restrained flames that run on denatured alcohol. Energyefficient, dramatic, and mobile, they lack the raw force of an open blaze, and should be bought as secondary heat sources only. As ever, the more effectively you insulate the rest of your home, the more it will retain heat, and the more effective your fireplace will be.

EASTERLING MARSH PARTNERSHIP Offering a comprehensive range of professional surveying services RESIDENTIAL SURVEYS Our professional, comprehensive residential surveys give home buyers peace of mind. Comprehensive home surveys We are regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and undertake the full range of RICS Home Surveys, as follows: n Condition Report - survey level one n HomeBuyer (Survey) Report - survey level two n HomeBuyer (Survey & Valuation) Report - survey level two n Building Survey (formerly called a Structural Survey) - survey level three n Market Valuation The RICS HomeBuyer (Survey & Valuation) Report includes a market valuation and a reinstatement calculation for buildings insurance purposes as standard. However, we can offer both these services under a separate contract if required.

PERIOD AND LISTED HOMES Period and listed homes need extra TLC - which means specialist expertise. Fortunately, we have this! If you’re thinking about buying a period or listed property, we can help you identify whether repairs and maintenance have been carried out appropriately, recommending suitable remedial action where necessary. If you’re already the proud owner of a period or listed home, we can help you plan and carry out works to make sure you maintain its integrity while securing its future. SURVEY FEES Our fees for undertaking surveys are tailored to the age, size and complexity of the property. They will also depend on the type of survey required. Please

Which report is right for you? To help you choose the most appropriate survey, please contact our team who would be happy to discuss the most appropriate level of survey for your proposed purchase. Understanding your report We pride ourselves on writing reports that are easy to understand, but we also know that buying a property is a major investment that most people don’t do very often. We want you to have complete confidence about your decisions, so we are happy to discuss in person any concerns or queries you may have following receipt of our survey report.

For more information please contact: Andrew Marsh BSc (Hons) MRICS - Managing Partner Easterling Marsh Partnership 7 Linden Close, Eridge Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HH Tel: 01892 577578 • Website: www.empsurveyors.com

do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your individual requirements. AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY Where appropriate, we use drone technology in our surveys, enabling us to inspect closely all areas of chimney stacks, roof coverings, rainwater pipes and gutters and main walls, which traditionally would be limited to a visual inspection using binoculars from ground level. (Please note that the use of aerial photography is subject to the property’s location, weather conditions and obtaining the owner’s permission.) Alternatively, lightweight pole cameras are used for roof inspections. These provide equally meticulous photographs and are very sturdy even in windy conditions.

Homes & Interiors

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

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Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Food & Culture

Lockdown and update

One hotel’s redesign story

Page 36

Electrifying

Land Rover updates the Discovery

Page 38

The show must go on

How a 30–year–old art show is changing with the times Page 34

Food & Culture

arts

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Finding creative ways of staging a virtual version of a much-loved art exhibition

Like most events this year, the Kent Painters Group annual exhibition had to cancel its physical show and instead it is running a virtual one online until the end of this month. Here committee member and participating painter Debra Barr-Smith tells Eileen Leahy all about why this 30-year-old show must go on...

ENT Painters Group (KPG) is a not-for-profit organisation started by a group of friends 30 years ago to raise money for local mental health charities

ARTIST’S RESIDENCE Debra Barr-Smith in her studio

in Kent. Members are made up of local artists living in the county as well as those creatives who have connections to Kent. Over the past three decades KPG’s annual art exhibition and sale has become one of the must-sees of the season and to date has raised over £330,000 for the various mental health charities it supports locally. These include Sevenoaks Mencap, Rethink Mental Illness and The Friends of

A KALEIDOSCOPE OF COLOUR: Teacup by Gilly Lovegrove

Dartford Road. And according to one of KPG’s committee members and regular participating painters, Debra Barr-Smith, the reason mental health charities were originally chosen is because three of the group’s founding members had children with mental health issues. “They decided on a fund-raising event towards the charities which had provided support for their families, she explains. “In its launch year of 1990 I believe the first exhibition was held as a drinks party in the elegant drawing room of one of the

founder members, but now it has evolved to be the well-known and much-admired weekend exhibition held annually at Sevenoaks School.”

Support Due to Covid-19 however, the group - like so many others - can’t hold its usual exhibition. So as a result it is running a virtual one instead all this month (until November 30) at the KPG website www. kentpaintersgroup.co.uk

“We still wanted to continue to support not only our acclaimed artists and sculptors but also our three mental health charities by moving our exhibition to a virtual forum,” continues Debra. She goes on to say that prior to Covid-19, every year a variety of painters, sculptors, fine jewellery makers, glass artists and ceramists would exhibit in the show and so popular has it become that both the number of exhibiting artists and supporters has grown year on year. Debra explains that being one of the latter

Food & Culture

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

POLLY HOSP

county. Secondly all of the artists are not painters, there are also sculptors, glass workers, ceramicists and fine art jewellers. Thirdly, we are not really a group as such, in that we do not meet as a group except at the annual exhibition.” One thing that is certain is that the annual KPG show has grown every year and now boasts

“I was dazzled by the artistic talent I saw when I attended my first Kent Painters Group exhibition back in 2000” was how she got so involved with KPG. “I was dazzled by the artistic talent I saw when I attended my first Kent Painters Group exhibition back in 2000 which that year was at the magnificent Combe Bank School in Sundridge,” Debra states. “From then I looked forward to my annual visit to view the stunning artwork and I made it a personal goal that one day my paintings would be selected by KPG.” Debra says that she submitted her work to the KPG selection committee for several years running: “Each year I was gently denied, but always with helpful guidance until one day once my painting had started to evolve I was chosen. “I was delighted to be exhibiting with top artists from around Kent and to also be supporting the worthwhile cause of local mental health charities.” Yet although the creative collective is called the Kent Painters Group, Debra says this is ‘slight misnomer’ as not all artists are based in the county and not all are painters or indeed a group that meets on a regular basis. “The name is a slight misnomer because firstly all of the artists are not necessarily based in Kent, they do however have links with the

some 50 to 60 artists exhibiting. Locally they include Elaine Gill, Lucy Clayton and Frances Featherstone. Given that the pandemic has put paid to this year’s show at Sevenoaks School Debra says the committee had to think about how they would still manage to put a show on. “Back in April at the planning meeting it was decided that the exhibition could simply not go

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LUCY CLAYTON

on in its usual format, but the committee was determined not to cancel entirely. “Facing government cuts and curtailment of their own usual fundraising activities, our charities are needing our support more than ever this year.” “So, the committee set to work to plan a transfer to an online exhibition. Many hours have been spent redesigning the website, accepting artist images, sorting a fundraising page and organising a social media campaign. “The enthusiastic and committed crew have worked their socks off, and now look forward with high hopes to online sales of artwork.” At the time of our interview, Debra says that the exhibition had reached the end of its first week and that sales so far have been OK. “Sales have been encouraging, however, we are not near the £23,000 mark which we normally achieve over our usual opening KPG show weekend.” Having said that KPG realises that not everyone can put their hand in their pocket for a piece of unique artwork – especially during these turbulent times - so it has created a donations link on its website for people to leave a charitable donation to one of the three charities it is supporting. KPG has also taken on board that due to the ongoing coronavirus restrictions it is somewhat of a challenge to persuade people to view and then buy items online. “We have been hit with a double whammy after the second lockdown was enforced a mere six days after we went live with this year’s exhibition but the committee has faced this challenge with enthusiasm and imagination,” adds Debra. “Interested buyers will have the opportunity to ‘chat’ via email or phone the artist directly. It is even possible that viewing arrangements might be made for after the second lockdown finishes on December 2.” For more information on the exhibition which runs until November 30, or the Kent Painters Group visit http://www.kentpaintersgroup.co.uk

ARTISTIC ENDEAVOURS WHICH TUNBRIDGE WELLS ARTISTS ARE TAKING PART IN THE KENT PAINTERS GROUP SHOW? Six Tunbridge Wells based artists are taking part: n Lucy Clayton n Frances Featherstone n Elaine Gill n Libbi Gooch n Rebecca Ritchie n Gilly Lovegrove

Any artist wishing to take part in next year’s KPG exhibition should contact Dani Meharg on 07786 010225. To make a donation to KPG’s chosen charities, please visit https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/ donation/kentpaintersgroup

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Food & Culture

food

Hotel takes time to take a fresh look during lockdown

Making the most of the circuit breaker, One Warwick Park has taken the time to reimagine itself with a brand new bar and a revamped sister restaurant – STEAK – while staying true to its roots with traditional Sunday roasts, as Lottie Bulmer finds out

CUISINIER Head Chef Andre Woodward

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

TUNBRIDGE Wells boutique hotel has used the pandemic to reimagine itself and is opening a new bar–The Warehouse and new sister restaurant– STEAK. The Warehouse Bar, aimed at the town’s younger residents,is attached to One Warwick Park in a new extension, and combines industrial

chic and urban design. The bar uses reclaimed materials and boast a distinctive industrial, edgy style, dreamt up by local graffiti artist and Skinners alumni, Hugh Whittaker. He told the Times: “The bar is amazing and has this great industrial style aimed at a younger crowd. “The brief was very detailed and they asked me to reflect Tunbridge

REVAMP One Warwick park has reimagined itself during lockdown

‘It highlights many of the facets that make Tunbridge Wells what it is’ Wells life in 2020, so I’ve included the ABC Cinema site that has been empty for so long, flooding on The Pantiles as well as to touch on the Covid pandemic.” Hugh also designed the Tunbridge Wells hoarding outside the former BHS premises in Royal Victoria place.

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Food & Culture

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

VISIONARY Skinners alumni and artist, Hugh Whittaker

INDUSTRIAL CHIC One Warwick Park’s new bar - The Warehouse

Martin Garner Operations Director at One Warwick Park said: “We want to create a place for younger people so decided to commission Hugh to create a piece of work that would give The Warehouse a distinctive look. “We think he has done a fantastic job not just reflecting the atmosphere we wanted to create in The Warehouse but also in highlighting many of the facets that make Tunbridge Wells what it is.” Also being introduced is STEAK, One Warwick Park’s new sister restaurant where Sunday roasts will continue to be the star of the menu. Head Chef – Andre Woodward, told the Times what makes a roast dinner at One Warwick Park so special. He said: “We know a roast dinner creates an atmosphere, especially when it’s cold outside. “Every family has their own special version of a Sunday roast so at One Warwick Park, we don’t mess with it too much. We just try and do simple things really well - we make a home cooked meal with finesse.

“We prepare for it all week - it’s not a lastminute thing for us and we very much stick to the traditional.

‘All the components are important, but the gravy really ties it together’ “I’ve eaten at some places that try to make the roast too pretty, but I think you’re messing too much with something that doesn’t need to be messed with. “I think all the components are really important, but the gravy really ties it together because everything gets coated.” He added the importance of a Sunday lunch for family time. He said: “If I’m not working, Sundays are all about the family. My wife makes an amazing roast and it’s one of my childrens’ favourite meals.”

STEAK is a cut above Reborn as STEAK, One Warwick Park’s sister restaurant based in Chapel Place is set to open on December 3. Following a facelift to the old interior, the building has been reimagined to entice families and couples alike. A casual and friendly atmosphere, STEAK offers lunch and dinner throughout the week. The restaurant will boast meat from local butchers and produce from local suppliers, steaks are cooked to order with other lighter options for lunch available. The restaurant will be open from Wednesday to Sunday and lunchtimes Friday to Sunday. Covid safety will remain a priority, with the restaurant adhering to safety and social distancing rules.

Adopting a fresh approach to eating out in Tunbridge Wells, STEAK will be the first of its kind in the town.

Facelift In advance of launching, the team will be hiding inflatable cows around the town centre and lucky finders have the opportunity to win some fantastic prizes to be redeemed at STEAK, which will be revealed in the coming weeks. Follow STEAK on social media for more information on how to win these great prizes. Table bookings for STEAK can be made by logging on to www.steaktunbridgewells. com and bookings for The Warehouse can be made by calling 01892 520587 or emailing reservations@onewarwickpark.co.uk

Motoring News

Wednesday November 18 | 2020

Motoring News

This week… Discovery’s updates n New HQ for GMG n

n Prius upgrades

Land Rover updates the Discovery with styling changes and new technology

Toyota announces upgraded safety system for the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid PLUG-IN The Prius’ upgrades are safety focused

DYNAMIC The new Land Rover Discovery has been updated for 2020 TOYOTA has upgraded the specification of its popular Prius plug-in hybrid to include better safety and connectivity equipment. The Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes the firm’s suite of active driver assistance features, has been upgraded to include Lane Trace Assist. This works with adaptive cruise control to keep the car in its lane automatically. Other functions of this package include pre-collision warning, lane departure alerts, adaptive high beam and rear cross-traffic alert, as well as a part-automated parking assistant on the Excel trim. THE LAND ROVER Discovery has been on sale for more than 30 years, bridging the gap between the hardcore off-roader Defender and the premium urban-focused Range Rover. The latest model has been given an update for 2020, bringing new technology, more efficient engines with some electrification, and subtle styling tweaks. The cabin has been updated to introduce the firm’s fantastic Pivi Pro infotainment system, which totally overhauls the 4×4’s infotainment experience with an 11.4-inch curved screen, alongside a 12.3-inch instrument display. Useful for families, there are 14 storage

locations around the vehicle totalling almost 42 litres. Meanwhile cargo capacity is 258 litres with all seven seats in place, 1,231 litres with five seats, and 2,485 litres with two seats up. You can fold the seats through a menu in the touchscreen, too.

Electrification There are three new straight-six-cylinder engines available featuring mild-hybrid technology. All are 3.0-litre units, with one petrol making 355bhp and two diesels making 246 and 296bhp. The entry-level engine is a four-cylinder petrol with no electrification.

There are four trim levels available too, called S, SE, HSE and sporty R-Dynamic. A Commercial vehicle will also be offered, with a 2,024-litre cargo space with additional underfloor storage. Despite bridging the gap between the off-road and urban models, the Discovery still has excellent off-roading capabilities thanks to the standard Terrain Response system, which can be upgraded to Terrain Response 2 for even better ability over difficult surfaces. Meanwhile, Land Rover says the Discovery’s towing capacity exceeds the legal maximum in every market it is sold. Prices for the new Land Rover Discovery will start at £53,050.

Gordon Murray Group plan new £50m HQ

Analyse The Prius PHEV has also been given an updated multimedia package that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It means drivers can plug their phone in and control it through the infotainment screen, including maps and audio. The Toyota MyT app now works with the car, offering features such as ‘find my car’, service alerts, journey planning and eco driving coaching. Drivers can also analyse data from previous trips. The Prius plug-in hybrid uses a petrolelectric powertrain that offers up to 34 miles of electric-only driving. It has a total power output of 120bhp and cango from 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds. Official figures show its fuel economy at 188.32-235.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 28-34g/km. The updated Prius Plug-in Hybrid is on sale now, with prices starting at £32,645 for the Business Edition, rising to £34,745 for the Excel.

CLASSIFIEDS

HEADQUARTERS Gordon Murray Group’s new headquarters are in Surrey GORDON MURRAY GROUP has announced that it will be creating a new £50m global headquarters and technology campus in Windlesham, Surrey. Following on from the introduction of the T.50 supercar, the announcement will see a 130,000 square foot development built over three buildings, creating more than 100 new jobs within the next three years. Initial construction will create a vehicle manufacturing centre, customer sales centre and a Gordon Murray Group heritage collection area. It’s set to be completed by the end of 2024. Professor Gordon Murray, chairman of the Gordon Murray Group, said: “This new technology campus and global headquarters is a major investment and a huge step forward for the Gordon Murray Group, as we gather momentum for the next phase of our business and our brands, spearheaded by the all-new T.50 supercar.

“Our innovative new technology campus is a fantastic new home and will give us world-class facilities that have been designed with a lot of attention to communication, workflow and social interaction – which will bring new levels of productivity to our already very efficient team.

Historic “This new HQ is a significant investment and will create high value-added new jobs. We’re also proud to be already making significant contributions to UK exports, and helping secure the vital UK automotive supply chain. Over 90% of the content of the new T.50 comes from UK supplies, which is something that we specified from the start. It is designed, engineered and manufactured from world-class British components in Britain.

The group will be working alongside Surrey Heath Borough Council to make sure that any buildings created are sympathetically integrated into the existing historic site. All parkland surrounding the area will be retained, too. A prototyping area of the main engineering facility will be where the group’s vehicles are developed. Individual build bays will facilitate prototype vehicles placed adjacent to their respective design team. Michael Gove MP, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Member of Parliament for Surrey Heath, said: “We are delighted that the Gordon Murray Group has announced moving into the Surrey Heath constituency. It is a highly respected business, globally renowned for design and technology. I am especially pleased that this will bring a number of highly-skilled new jobs to Windlesham.”

England Lockdown November 2020 Update * WE ARE OPEN *

SERVICE & REPAIR CENTRES BOOKINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY BUT REST ASSURED WE ARE FULLY OPERATIONAL

PAR TS CLICK & COLLECT AVAILABLE

SALES SHOWROOMS Closed to customers inline with government guidelines. Handover/vehicle collections available, by appointment only.

OUR SALES TEAMS ARE STILL HERE TO ASSIST YOU BY EMAIL, PHONE & ONLINE For your safety, we are operating an appointment-based system to manage the number of people on site at any one time. We are adhering to government guidelines on social distancing and sanitation practises, so you can visit us with total peace of mind.

V O LV O C A R S T O N B R I D G E

MCNAUGHTON ROSS

Vale Rise, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1TB 01732 832424 sales.tonbridge@hsfgroup.co.uk service.tonbridge@hsfgroup.co.uk

High Street, Ticehurst, East Sussex, TN5 7BE 01580 200354 sales.ticehurst@hsfgroup.co.uk aftersales.ticehurst@hsfgroup.co.uk