Times of Tonbridge 1st June 2016

Wednesday, June 1 2016

All the news that matters

Local, National and International

YOUR

w

OF TONBRIDGE

FREE

br

w. idg bk e es : 0 ta 1 te 73 ag 2 en 7 ts 71 .c om 61 6

w

Tonbridge Castle

m Wa ov n t C e h to on om ta ct e?

To n

PAPER

ATTRACTIVE AND AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS TEMPT ‘NEWBIES’ INTO TOWN Page 4

FORMER MP AND STRICTLY STAR ANN WIDDECOMBE RETURNS TO KENT Page 5

EX-LANDLORD CRITICISES THE NATIONAL TRUST OVER PUB CLOSURE Page 11

2,000 new homes on the map

NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS IN BATTLE WITH FACEBOOK Page 5

INSIDE MEN UNITED

These boots were made for walking in over-50s football

PAGE 5

PITCH INVASION

Tonbridge School to review security procedures

SITE MAP The green parts of the Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council map show where sites are ‘suitable and deliverable’ for development. But the TMBC website says it should be noted that the ‘call for sites’ exercise is not an assessment of whether sites will be allocated for future uses in the new Local Plan or developed either in whole or in part. It is a technical exercise that the Local Planning Authority is required to carry out by the Government.

By Neill Barston CONCERNS have been raised over the environmental impact of more than 2,000 homes earmarked for Tonbridge as the borough moves towards a new Local Plan. Mark Hood, of West Kent Green Party, said it was unacceptable that a number of greenfield locations had been identified for development – many of which are in areas known to be at heightened risk of flooding. The largest scheme within the town, revealed under Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s interim sites assessment, is at Grange Farm, off Higham Lane. According to the study this could hold up to 1,211 homes in a bid to meet the shortage of family properties. Mr Hood said: “It is unjustifiable to be building on greenfield sites when there are a number of urban locations that already have planning approval that have yet to be built. “It is also a shame there are proposals to build on

PAGE 5

CHILDREN’S A&E

Tunbridge Wells leads the way with new hospital unit

school playing fields off Dryhill Park Road, as we should be looking to preserve the green spaces.” Further potential locations include up to 332 homes on land at Manor Farm off Upper Haysden Lane, plus more than 300 at Coblands plant nursery in Trench Road. Land north of Lower Haysden Lane was also considered potentially suitable for up to 440 homes. In addition, Ridge View School’s plans for a new site at Upper Haysden Lane next year could lead to its present site becoming the location more than 70 properties. A similar total could be constructed on the playing fields on Dryhill Park Road linked to Hilden Grange Preparatory School. Also among the sites that are being considered is land near Tonbridge Football Club, which could house hundreds more homes. The council’s ‘call for sites’ document acknowledged that many areas of the potential development within Tonbridge were at risk of flooding. But it also identified that, as of 2011, the borough

required up to 13,000 homes over the next two decades – which the council said was likely to be reduced to fewer than 7,000 as a result of developments over the past five years. Under its call for sites, three major schemes emerged elsewhere in the borough. These include up to 5,000 homes on the site of the East Malling Research Centre, plus several thousand properties for an extension of Kings Hill. The sites will be put to public consultation this September. Cllr Howard Rogers, the borough’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure, said: “The Interim Sites Assessment is not any indication or guarantee that sites will be included in the Local Plan.” He added: “Sites having potential at this stage will be subject to public consultation and will be considered in more detail later in the process, when planning merit can be applied.” For a full list of the potential sites, visit www.tmbc.gov. uk/callforsites

PAGE 7

EDUCATION

Nursery celebrates ‘Outstanding’ status after Ofsted inspection

PAGE 23

BMWi

The Ultimate Driving Machine

THE PIONEERING BMW i8. BECOME ELECTRIC. The BMW i8 is a truly revolutionary vehicle - with its innovative construction, ground-breaking use of materials, aerodynamic design and wealth of intelligent BMW EfficientDynamics features, the i8 has everything that you might expect in a sports car and then some.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW i3: mpg N/A, C0 2 emiss ions Og/km, nominal power output (electric motor) 75/102 kW/hp at 4,800 rpm; peak power output (electric motor) 125/170 kW/hp, total average energy consumption per 62 miles/100 km (combined cycle) 12.9 kWh. Total range: 118 miles (combined cycle). Customer orientated range: up to 100 miles. Official fuel economy figures for the BMW i8: Weighted combined cycle: 134.5mpg (2 .1 1/100km), C0 2 emissions 49g/km , power output (engine) 170/231 kW/hp, power output (electric motor) 95/131 kW/hp, total average energy consumption per 62 miles/100 km (weighted combined cycle) 11.9 kWh, customer orientated total range up to 373 miles. Maximum electric range value 23 miles, common average electric range value (eDrive only) up to 23 miles. Figures may vary depending on different factors including but not limited to individual driving style, climatic conditions, route characteristics and preconditioning . T he BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) tha t req uires mains electricity for charging.

/\Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

THE BMW i3. THE ELECTRIC CAR THAT DRIVES LIKE A BMW. Ideal for city driving, the BMW i3 is the perfect combination of style and efficiency. Fitted with eDrive and driven by an emission-free electric motor, the i3 is able to accelerate at an impressive speed and also boasts a high-voltage lithium ion battery.

To find out more about the BMW i range, and to arrange your test drive/\, contact Cooper Tunbridge Wells on 01892 628 120. Cooper Tunbridge Wells Longfield Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UE 01892 628 120 www.coopertunbridgewellsbmw.co.uk

4 ■ LOCAL NEWS

Weather Wednesday

June 1, 2016

A dull and damp day, with cloudy skies and further isolated outbreaks of rain or drizzle.

12 C

Visibility: Moderate

Pollution: Low

Humidity: 97%

Sunrise: 04.48am

Sunset: 21.06pm

Wind: 12mph

º

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

16ºC

15ºC

19ºC

19ºC

20ºC

21ºC

GREY SKIES

There was something rather beautiful as well as menacing about this moody sky over West Kent College last week Photo by Sally Barnes

Home sweet home The latest apartment developments in Tonbridge have attracted new residents to the region. Times reporter Neill Barston spoke to some of them about why they have chosen to settle down in the town

GAINING an all-important foot on the housing ladder remains one of the biggest challenges for many young people living in West Kent. As Tonbridge continues to grow with new apartment-based developments, the landscape of the town continues to evolve. But with average house prices for a semidetached home in the town standing at around £377,000 according to property website Zoopla, renting remains the most viable option for many aspiring home-owners. Robert Gordon-James, director of estate agents Martin and Co, explains that although there is still a shortage of three-bedroom properties in the area, the rental market for flats is particularly strong in light of recent new builds in Tonbridge by developers such as Redrow. These apartments sell very quickly to first time buyers and buy-to-let landlords.

Send your weather pictures into... newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 EDITOR AT LARGE FRANK BALDWIN fbaldwin@markerstudy.com DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES GEMMA HAK ghak@markerstudy.com | 01892 779580 GENERAL INQUIRIES newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews IF YOU HAVE A STORY WE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Contact details above

STAYING PUT Karen and Joseph He said: “It has been encouraging to see businesses starting to set up in the area and the flats that have been built here in the past couple of years have brought new people to the town, which has been good for its economy. “It’s still an affordable place to live, with some fantastic schools, and we are seeing people are happy to move from London to Tonbridge as the commuter service here is good.” Karen Thomas, aged 37, a salon manager, rents a one-bedroom property at the Waterside Reach development in Sovereign Way, with her partner Joseph Auguste, 33.

SOFA SO GOOD Nick and John in their apartment She said: “I manage two salons in Chelsea and Belgravia and I was looking for somewhere that wasn’t London, but still had access to it, which is why I chose Tonbridge, as it’s just 40 minutes on the train. My partner Joseph has no commute at all as he works for a company in the High Street. “We were one of the first to move into our building last September and we love it here. We pay £845 rent a month, whereas when we were in Tunbridge Wells, the rent was £900 and the council tax was higher. We are hoping to start a family and we would definitely like to stay in the area for its location.” John Tresadern, aged 30, a freelance illustrator and sales assistant for food retailer Cook in Sevenoaks, previously lived in Maidstone, but is renting with partner Nick Bartlett, 30, who also works for Cook in London. They both agreed that finding somewhere comparatively affordable had been challenging, but have enjoyed the past year in their Sovereign Way apartment. John said: “It was quite difficult finding a place that we felt was right. We did a lot of searching on the internet and would call up about places only to find they had been snapped up really quickly. “When I first moved to Tonbridge there was not a lot going on, but the High Street improvements have made a big difference.” John and Nick would like to remain in the area and may consider buying a property, but they would be likely to require assistance from help-to-buy schemes.

Nick added: “There are lots of things to do here – like the festivals and food markets, which are great fun. There’s always something going on in town and we love it here. “The only thing that we don’t have is parking – which is something that only two-bedroom places get in our block.” Irena Pantou, aged 26, a gas and oil analyst, has also recently moved into Waterside Reach with her boyfriend Petros Karalis, 28. The couple, who are both originally from Greece, were previously renting in central London. But although they loved life in the city, it has proved far more economical for them to move down to Tonbridge. “We had been looking for somewhere to live all over Kent, particularly in Orpington, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells, but when we saw the development in Tonbridge we took the chance to move here last August and it’s gone really well,” said Irena. “In London we were paying £1,600 a month for a small flat. Here we are paying £1,000 for a two-bedroom place.

SAVING MONEY Irena and Petros at Angelfest in Tonbridge “The rail links make it very convenient for London and although we have train fares to pay, we are still saving between £200 and £300 a month, which goes a long way towards our monthly shopping bills. “Tonbridge is a really nice place with independent shops – we’re able to have a car here as well, which is something we could never do in London.”

16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times of Tonbridge 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 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU, or email newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.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.

PRINTED BY NEWBURY NEWS LTD Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury, Berkshire. RG14 2DW

QUOTE UNQUOTE ‘Life is too short for long-term grudges’

Elon Musk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

SOLD OUT Waterside Reach in Tonbridge

LOCAL NEWS 

All quiet on the Facebook front

Littergram creator is hoping ‘no news is good news’

HUGE SUPPORT Danny Lucas

By Neill Barston THE businessman behind the Littergram internet app, which gained global headlines when

Facebook threatened legal action over its name, has confirmed he plans to continue with his popular environmental initiative. Danny Lucas, who is based in Tonbridge, said he has received

huge support for his battle against the social media giant which, claimed the Littergram name was too close to that of its Instagram photo-sharing application. Facebook originally gave Mr Lucas until April 28 to change the name, but more than a month after the deadline passed, the Littergram creator has yet to receive any response to a personal plea he made to Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg. Mr Lucas said: “We haven’t heard back from Facebook directly. The only thing we have heard was the statement given to the BBC’s One Show a few weeks ago. “That essentially said they would not be doing anything. So we are taking a position of it being no news is good news.” He said the Littergram app, which was devised to teach young people the importance of a tidy environment through people reporting incidents of litter through location-tagged photo-sharing, had been successfully adopted by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council. Mr Lucas said: “We’ve had a lot of response from all the media coverage that there has been over this, with calls from India and America asking about Litter-

School takes action to stop pitch invasion by travellers A REVIEW of security procedures is to take place at Tonbridge School after a group of travellers set up camp and started hanging out washing on one of its sports pitches. Police were called to the scene last Tuesday evening when five caravans were towed through the Sports Centre gates on London Road, but no arrests were made. The group of travellers parked on the edge of one of cricket pitches close to the Sports Centre building, which has previously been used as a pre-Olympic training facility, and recently for the Tonbridge Triathlon. Tonbridge School Bursar Anthony Moore confirmed its security measures would be examined, but believed the incident had been handled appropriately.

He said: “A small group of travellers arrived on the school’s lower fields on the evening of May 24. “Following successful work between the school, its legal advisers and the police, the travellers left the site on Wednesday evening in an amicable fashion, and without causing any damage to the field. Mr Moore added: “The five caravans and other vehicles were parked on a cricket pitch at the far boundary of the school campus. “They were well away from the academic areas, and therefore caused no major disturbance to the running of the school during their brief stay. “The school will review its procedures in order to prevent access to our private land in future.”

CARRY ON CAMPING Travellers set up for the night on a Tonbridge School cricket pitch

gram, as well as other councils across the UK wanting to use it. “The great thing about our app is that it could be used anywhere in the world, but we can’t really focus on that until we have this sorted out with Facebook. “One of our main aims is to work with major brands on promoting being tidy,

‘We have had calls from India and America asking about Littergram’ because 33 per cent of all rubbish comes from packaging. “So if we can get these companies using our logo and promoting being tidy, then it will help improve the litter crisis that is costing us a billion pounds to clean up,” said the crusader. There has been an especially encouraging response from schools. As previously reported, after a successful event at Woodlands Junior School in Tonbridge, a letter was sent out to more than 5,000 UK headteachers, urging them to get involved with the Littergram initiative. ”

Over 50? Love football? You’ll never walk alone A TEAM of veteran soccer players who formed a ‘walking’ football team in Tonbridge are lining up today (Wednesday June 1) in a countywide tournament based on the growing phenomenon of the sport. The quirky take on the beautiful game, which penalises players if they run during matches, is aimed at people over 50 who have previously played at a younger age. Player Fred Long, a retired civil servant, says the recently formed Tonbridge team has proved a perfect social outlet for the group of veteran footballers. He added that the team, which presently trains weekly at Tonbridge School, is still in need of kit sponsorship for future fixtures and tournaments. The players have spent months training and are now ready WALK for the Kent DON’T County Football RUN AssociationFred Long backed festival in action

at Abbey School in Faversham, where they will take on teams from across the region. The event will also raise money for several causes including Demelza House children’s hospice, and is themed around the 1966 World Cup. Fred, who has been nominated for a Perry’s Exceptional Award for community services after his work with Building a Dementia Friendly Tonbridge, said: “I’ve been playing football since I was a kid growing up in Millwall nearly 40 years ago. “Having turned 50, I thought I’d probably end up taking up golf, as it’s something you can play into your 80s. “But then I saw that a Tonbridge walking football team had started up and it’s been really good playing six-a-side with people from all across the area. Anyone interested in sponsoring the walking football team should call Mr Long on 01732 506096.

5

NEWS IN BRIEF

Did you see cyclist and van collide? POLICE investigating a collision in Tonbridge between a van and a bicycle, which left the cyclist with a fractured back and a serious leg injury, are appealing for witnesses. The collision took place on the Shipbourne Road between Whistler Road and Higham Lane around 10pm on Tuesday May 24 and the van, possibly a white Ford Transit, may have sustained a damaged wing mirror and indicator. It is believed to have gone down Puttenden Lane towards Plaxtol. Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting 241381 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Band goes global THE Tonbridge indie group that represented the UK in a global ‘battle of the bands’ in Berlin finished second in a public vote. Guitarist Henry Every said: “After two days of driving, sleeping in a lay-by, and having never played an international gig before, an amp blowing out after five seconds of your first song isn’t the best start. “But even with technical problems, we were met with only positive reaction to our two songs. Coming second in the public vote is an amazing achievement for us among amazingly talented artists.”

Kwik Cricket festival PRIMARY schools in Tonbridge are taking part in this year’s Kwik Cricket Festival at Kings Hill Sports Park on June 14. The tournament is organised by the borough council in partnership with the Kent Cricket Board and is part of a national programme which is held every year to encourage primary schools to offer cricket as part of the PE curriculum. The winning team will go on to represent the Tonbridge & Malling district in the county final on July 12 in Canterbury.

Queen’s birthday tea ST PETER and St Paul Church in Tonbridge is inviting residents for an afternoon tea to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday on June 12 at 5.30pm. The refreshments will be followed by songs of praise as part of the festivities. All are welcome to attend the event at the parish church in Church Lane, Tonbridge.

An evening with Ann FORMER MP, novelist and star of Strictly Come Dancing, Ann Widdecombe, is returning to Kent for an ‘audience with’ evening in aid of Heart of Kent Hospice. She will be revealing stories, anecdotes and opinions from her life at the Hop Farm in Paddock Wood on Saturday June 11 from 7pm. Tickets are £30, call 01622 790195.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

6  LOCAL NEWS

Mayor makes a splash on his debut David Neve unveils £1.7million sports centre facelift during his first engagement as Mayor By Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

ON YOUR MARKS Mayor David Neve with Fusion’s Jason Reeves and two potential stars of the future

Wednesday 1st June 2016

MAYOR David Neve was quick to dive into his new role when he unveiled the revamped Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre on Friday. The reopening came after the centre had undergone a £1.7million facelift by leisure charity Fusion Lifestyle, which runs the facility alongside the Borough Council. A new, 70-plus station gym, a dedicated virtual indoor cycle studio, basketball courts, indoor tennis courts, three refurbished pools and a new health suite, café and softplay area were among the improvements. Speaking at the event, the new Mayor recalled that the likes of Wimbledon champion Virginia Wade and former England rugby captain Martin Corry had attended the nearby Tunbridge Wells Grammar Schools. He added: “I hope soon that Tunbridge Wells will have such greats, and with facilities like this I believe there is at least a sporting chance.” It was his first engagement but not his first pun in office, since he took up the mayoralty from Cllr David Elliott at a mayor-making ceremony two days prior. The ceremony gave those gathered a taste of what to expect from the Liberal Democrat Mayor Neve, who promised a year of puns and ‘groanable jokes’. As if to emphasise the point, he said his new

‘catchphrase’ while in office would be: “I shall be brief and some say for a mayor, that’s a relief.” He also promised to make it a ‘fun year’ and jokingly told councillors he would be keeping an eye on their leader David Jukes in order to ‘keep him under control’.

‘He promised a year of puns and groanable jokes’ Outgoing Mayor Councillor David Elliott congratulated Councillor Neve on his appointment and concluded his term of office by presenting a cheque for £26,000 to his chosen charity ellenor. For his part, Mayor Neve said he would be championing the charity Beat, which is the largest charity in the UK dedicated to helping those with eating disorders. Drawing on his own

experience as Deputy Mayor during the previous year, he said: “To witness how we affect people and charities has to be experienced to fully understand what it means to have the Mayor and Mayoress attend a function. “It raises their profile and they feel their efforts have been recognised. We think people should take on board how this role promotes the borough. “It is a priceless thing, despite what some people may think.” Councillor Julia Soyke, Conservative member for Speldhurst & Bidborough, was elected Deputy Mayor at the meeting, while wife Jill Neve will take on the role of Mayoress.

STAFF PARTY Mayor Neve has promised a ‘fun year’

LOCAL NEWS 

NEWS IN BRIEF

Michelin star caterer to expand business HATTONS of Royal Tunbridge Wells will be opening a new Lifestyle and Deli store in The Pantiles this month. The catering company has been run by Michelin star-winning chef and director Daniel Hatton, who has worked in some of Kent and London’s best restaurants. Mr Hatton has worked under Marco Pierre White and Gordon Ramsay. His Thackeray’s team were awarded a Michelin star in 2012.

Shop quits The Pantiles A POTTERY shop which has closed in Tunbridge Wells after three years has left a parting shot about the decline of The Pantiles. The owners of Polkadot Lane have returned to their shop in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, which has been refurbished after suffering flood damage last Christmas. A poster they stuck up in the shop window said Tunbridge Wells and The Pantiles have ‘lost their way’, while their heritage has been ‘forgotten and neglected’.

A point well made A TUNBRIDGE WELLS teacher has posted an examination answer by one of his pupils online because of its pointed criticism of Standard Assessment Tests. Having been asked to write a sentence using the word ‘point’ as a noun, the Year Six pupil answered: “I don’t see the point in Sats.” The riposte was published on Facebook by Damith Bandara with the comment: “An intelligent response I thought.”

County’s first A&E for children opened Tunbridge Wells leads the way with specialist unit KENT’S first specialist children’s A&E unit was opened last week at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, dedicated solely to providing emergency care to patients under the age of 16. The pioneering centre is situated near to the hospital’s main A&E department in Pembury and has seven bays, a waiting room and a breastfeeding room. A&E Matron Stella Davey said: “We hope this new facility will enhance and improve the services we currently provide for our younger patients and their families, and allow us to ensure they receive the best possible care in the most efficient way. “To help run the unit 24/7, we have additional paediatric-trained nurses, nursery nurses and consultant paediatricians.” The Tunbridge Wells Hospital League of Friends, local charity Emilia’s Little Heart and local company Neubies donated wall stickers, chairs and storage to the unit, to help make the environment more child-friendly. Staff in the A&E department are currently undertaking a number of

charity events to raise money for more distraction equipment and toys.

‘This facility will enhance and improve services’ Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust’s Chief Executive, Glenn Douglas, said: “I am very pleased that we have opened a dedicated A&E for children. DEDICATION Staff at the new children’s A&E

“It’s a much nicer environment for our younger patients to be treated in and will mean that we can provide the best possible service in the most efficient way. I would like to thank the staff that have worked tirelessly to get the unit up and running.” Last year, 14.1 per cent of all people seen at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust’s A&E departments were under the age of 16.

7

No reply to ambulance 999 calls RESIDENTS of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells are increasingly at risk of having their 999 emergency call unanswered as ambulance services across the nation are overwhelmed by surging demand. Almost 1,000 people in the area covered by the South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb) – which includes the whole of Kent and Sussex – had their calls unanswered during March, NHS figures revealed. The number of people abandoning their call before it is answered in order to get out of an automated queue and try again had increased by 358 per cent between April 2015 and March this year. A total of 984 people had their calls unanswered during March, up from 215 last April. Abandoned calls are defined by NHS England as those abandoned after ringing for at least five seconds. The increase in the number of abandoned calls comes as ambulance services and NHS trusts come under unprecedented pressure due to surging demand. A total of 63,546 emergency calls were made for an ambulance in March in the Secamb area, up from 48,795 in April 2015.  Chief Executive of Secamb, Paul Sutton, resigned after the service was criticised for its handling of 111 calls. See also page 16

Wednesday 1st June 2016

8  LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

World renowned TEDx is back to inspire the town By Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

A SELL-OUT Tunbridge Wells TEDx 2015

‘Over 150 people made submissions to speak at the event, which has risen in popularity across the globe’ “People still think of ‘disgusted of Tunbridge Wells’ but we are not like that any more,” said Nick Adams, who chairs the organisation committee for TEDx in the town.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Danny Kruger Chairman of Only Connect, London’s creative criminal justice charity. Graham Hadfield A Tunbridge Wells-based composer for film and television. Natalie Sisson Bestselling author of the Suitcase Entrepreneur. Amanda Dicker Founder and Concept Director at the multi-award – winning The Chapel hair salons.

ONE of the world’s most renowned creative conferences will be making its way to Tunbridge Wells for the second time following its sell-out success last year. TEDx Tunbridge Wells aims to show the ‘hidden side’ of the community, with over 150 people making submissions to speak at the event, which has risen in popularity across the globe. On Saturday, nearly 300 people will gather at Trinity Theatre to hear 17 speakers talk on topics as diverse as being a war hero to film scores and the plight of refugees. The objective of the event is to ‘inspire’ people and help them to view the world in a different way. But it is also a way to showcase and celebrate some of the creative talent that can be found in abundance in Tunbridge Wells and help project a positive image of the town.

BRIGHT IDEA Organisers Dan Foreman (L) and Nick Adams (R)

KEY SPEAKERS

Dr Christine Bailey Marketing Director, EMEA & Russia at Cisco Systems. Hanna Sorrell Founder of the Wells Angels Women’s Institute Caner Veli Founder of award-winning product Liquiproof and winner of Dragons’ Den investment. Emily Raj Tunbridge Wells Year 12 student studying the International Baccalaureate Careers Programme. Edward Foreman Does what all ten-year-old boys do - plays games, sports, gets up to mischief.

“We want to show people that Tunbridge Wells is not disgusted, far from it.” Mr Adams works closely with Dan Foreman, who had secured a licence to run a TEDx event in the town from the main franchise. TED, which grants the licences, stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design. It was founded under the slogan, ‘Ideas Worth Spreading’, and has been running for 32 years. With an emphasis on creativity and technology, the organisation has strong links with Silicon Valley and people pay thousands of pounds to attend their major events. Speakers have included Bill Clinton, Al Gore, Gordon Brown, Richard Dawkins, Bill Gates, Bono, the founders of Google and several Nobel Prize winners. However, the TEDx franchise model allows anywhere which fulfils the right criteria to host their own events under the brand. Licences are free but the organisations must always be non-profit and are staffed and organised entirely by volunteers. “The purpose of these events is to encourage people to think a little differently,” Mr Adams says. “Hopefully people come away after listening to

the speakers feeling a little more inspired, a bit more professional at what they do and a more informed person.” The speakers at TEDx Tunbridge Wells are drawn from all over the world, with one individual making the journey from New Zeeland just to attend the event. However, around half are local, with the youngest speaker being just ten years old. The speeches from last year’s event have been viewed on YouTube more than 25,000 times. Mr Adams, who currently works at Yoyo Design, said he was drawn to supporting TEDx Tunbridge Wells due to his own background in the creative industries. “Before I came to Tunbridge Wells I worked in London, Leeds and abroad. TED has been a big influence on the industry. “There was one job where each Friday morning we would watch a TED conference video. “Tunbridge Wells will benefit, too, as it has one of the highest concentrations of creative industries per head in the country. “We want to bring the world to Tunbridge Wells but also to show the wider world what Tunbridge Wells is all about.”

Nick Hammond A Creativity Trainer, innovator and founder of The Creative Filter. Diane Young Co-founder and MD of The Drum, a magazine specializing in the marketing and media sector. Ringpullman Mysterious caped crusader who was seen gliding around the streets of town on an electric unicycle. Glenn Smith Has spent the last 20 years creating campaigns for some of the world’s best known brands. Simon Harmer A war hero and double amputee, Simon Harmer lost both legs on October 26, 2009 in Afghanistan. Rafael dos Santos Recently featured in the Sunday Times as one of the ‘Top 100 Most Inspiring Entrepreneurs in the UK’ Jaz O’Hara Quit her job to work full time in a humanitarian capacity after a visit to the Calais ‘Jungle’. Funke Abimbola Currently the most senior black lawyer working within the UK.

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS 

Flower power was all the fashion at summer show

9

BUSINESS IN BRIEF

Greg Clark praises local markets TUNBRIDGE Wells MP Greg Clark has hailed as a success this year’s Love Your Local Market fortnight, which comes to an end this week. Mr Clark highlighted the example of entrepreneurs such as Michael Marks or Alan Sugar to illustrate what people can achieve from setting up a stall whilst on a visit to the Tunbridge Wells Farmer’s Market. He added: “I would urge councils across the country to continue supporting the endeavours of these budding business owners, and communities to love their local markets so they can keep trading.”

Four decades at firm TWO leading partners at Britain’s oldest law firm are celebrating 40 years at the practice. Eddie Fardell, who heads the court of protection team, and Gilbert Green, a partner in the commercial property team, both joined Thomson Snell & Passmore in 1976. James Partridge, Senior Partner, said the firm was ‘extremely grateful’ for their dedicated service. R ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE was dressed to thrill for three days last week when it played host to the fashion show Style Your Summer from May 26-28. The 21 live catwalk events were based on three themes – The Garden Party, Festival Fever and Summer Prints – with summer brights, floral prints and 90’s retro cool.

RVP Marketing Manager Marc Burchett said: “Shoppers were definitely taking full advantage of the events and also the offers, with many retailers reporting items were selling out.” Shoppers were given free expert advice on buying new accessories at ‘Must-Have Demos’ with fashion style blogger Rhiannon Duffin.

New MD at SELEP THE South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) has appointed Adam Bryan as Managing Director. Mr Bryan, who has previously worked for Essex County Council, will be overseeing the economic development of Kent, East Sussex, Essex, Medway, Southend and Thurrock and their 344,000 businesses.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

10 � LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Flushed with success

Monita Cheung was named New Business of the Year at the Royal Tunbridge Wells Business Awards a fortnight ago. Adam Hignett talks to her about how she came to be a winner Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk IT WAS never Monita Cheung’s intention to work in interior design, but by ‘complete fluke’ her need for some work experience whilst at university led her down a career path that she has stayed on for the last nine years. “I was studying Product Design at Middlesex University and in order to gain credits for my course I had to do some work experience,” she explained. One of the only options available was working at the high-end bathroom company CP Hart at their flagship showroom in Waterloo, London. But it soon became apparent that she had considerable talent in the field, which did not go unnoticed by her employers. “I was initially only supposed to be there for eight weeks over the summer, but then they kept extending it,” she said. “Eventually I ended up staying for six years.” During this time she won a number of design awards, was featured in several magazine articles and was managing a team of designers. After a brief interlude working for a modern kitchen company called Krieder and offering freelance services, in 2014 Mrs Cheung took the decision to go into business for herself. However, despite excelling in her field, setting up her own company has been a steep learning curve.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

“It is extremely stressful and I have had to learn a lot of new things which I have never had to think about before, like building a website and branding. “I am just lucky to have a husband who helps with my admin as I think I would really struggle otherwise, and as I only employ myself and work from home my overheads are very low.” One of the main challenges has been dealing with the cyclical nature of the business. She said: “When I first started, I was really busy. Then by November into Christmas time I had hardly any clients as it was out of season. “That was not a great time, so I was constantly hunting for projects and advertising. “At one point I printed off several hundred leaflets and put them through the letter boxes of some of the more affluent households in town, and now I am very busy again.” Despite moving to Tunbridge Wells three

years ago, most of her clients are still based in London as there is a bigger demand for the sort of modern designs she specialises in. However, Mrs Cheung is thrilled to have won her category at the inaugural Times of Tunbridge Wells business awards. “It is such great brand awareness and PR. It feels really good to be recognised.” FORWARD PLANNING Monita Cheung specialises in modern designs

Award for company’s green move A WADHURST-based clothing company has been announced as the winner of the ‘Bold Move’ category in this year’s Guardian Sustainable Business Awards. Páramo, which produces highperformance outdoor clothing, won the award – presented by adventurer Ben Fogle – after becoming the first outdoor company to sign up to Greenpeace Detox commitment. Instead of using PFC-based water repellents in their clothing, Páramo waterproofs use an alternative fabric technology, Nikwax Analogy, developed by the company’s founder, Nick Brown. Unlike PFC-based water repellents, it does not break down to form toxic and persistent chemicals. The Guardian said: “Páramo is one of the few PFC-free outdoor brands currently on the market. “In a demonstration of industry leadership, the apparel company came out publicly this year to support Greenpeace’s call for an end to the use of this toxic chemical in outdoor gear.” Greenpeace’s Cecilia Preite Martinez said: “Páramo is setting the highest standard in the whole outdoor sector and this example should encourage bigger brands to take the lead for a toxic-free future.”

LOCAL NEWS ■

Shame on you, National Trust

Richard Henderson, the National Trust’s Assistant Director of Operations, who looks after Chiddingstone, commented:

Nigel Lucas, landlord of Chiddingstone’s Castle Inn for almost half a century, breaks his silence about the closure of the village’s iconic pub as reported by the Times I DID not intend to make any public comments about the closure of the Castle Inn. But, as the person named in your article May 18 as the previous tenant of the pub for 47 years, having arrived in April 1964, maybe I can help with a few facts. The National Trust were never the most generous landlords but that could be excused as they are a charity and bound to make best use of their funds. However, as the years went by, it became increasingly difficult to negotiate reasonable rents for what is in reality a small village pub without a car park. We were fortunate to have a true public bar – the hub of the building – as well as a separate saloon and an intimate restaurant Who remembers Felice, my first head waiter – now buried across the road in the churchyard – the only man I knew who could put a whoopee cushion on a seat as a lady sat down and get a kiss for it? He worked with Chris King for many years and he in turn assumed the responsibility of managing the restaurant for more than 20 years – although he only arrived for a week’s trial. He also assumed ‘ownership’ of the fabulous garden. God bless them and the many wonderful people

who worked so hard to care for our hundreds of loyal customers. Life was exhausting, the customers many and varied and totally classless – a tractor driver could drink a pint with a prince in the public bar – but it was also fun and so rewarding because of the customers.

‘The National Trust were never the most generous landlords’ As Philip Everest, a late church warden at St Mary’s, was once asked on BBC television: “What’s the centre of the village?” He replied: “It’s midway between the church and the Castle Inn. The landlord gives me my wine at Holy Communion and my first pint when the pub opens.” The National Trust raised the rent inexorably until they tried to increase it from £47,500 to £60,000, which for a small country pub was not feasible. When I tried to sell the remainder of the lease, everyone agreed it was a non-starter so I gave it away for £45,000. I heard the National Trust let it for £25,000 a year,

11

MEMORY LANE Former landlord Nigel Lucas outside his beloved pub, which closed on April 17 but that’s only a rumour! Perhaps someone knows. All things have to end but it didn’t need to end this way, with every stick of furniture, all the fixtures and fittings sold off in a mad scramble of a jumble sale. Everything I had held so dear

was piled into trailers on the backs of 4×4s to be scattered to the four winds like so much junk. Shame on you, National Trust, this is no way to treat one of your jewels. Everything has to come to an end, but it didn’t need to end like this. Nigel Lucas

“We received Mr Lucas’s letter and I have since spoken with him. I am now working to address his concerns. “We want the pub to be a success in the village and have in recent years made changes to the tenancy at the Castle Inn to ensure its long-term place in Chiddingstone. “We are now actively searching for a new tenant and are delighted to have had initial interest from several parties, which we will be following up. “As we’ve said before, we’re committed to finding the right conservationminded tenant to care for this historic pub, which takes time. “But we believe this care and attention is a vital part of our work to preserve its future in the village.”

OPENING PARTY (L-R) Caroline Smith, singer

Wednesday 1st June 2016

12 ■ EU DEBATE

What made Tunbridge Wells decide? PASSIONS ran high when more than 300 people gathered at the Assembly Hall last Wednesday to take part in one of the biggest, most controversial debates in the town’s history – sponsored by the Times of Tunbridge Wells. With the referendum on Britain’s EU membership just around the corner (June 23) the panellists in both the Remain in Europe and Brexit camps vied to win the audience across to their point of view. A panel of businessmen represented the local economy, and ITN’s 5 News Political Editor Andy Bell was in the Chair. There was everything to play for as a predebate vote by the audience revealed a near 50/50 split in those supporting ‘Remain’ and those favouring ‘Leave’, with the Remain camp maybe a fraction ahead. The three main themes were the economy, immigration and sovereignty and while there was inevitably some overlap, we have distilled the most salient points and arguments into these three categories.

DIFFERENCE OF OPINION Panellists gather around the host, Andy Bell (centre)

The Economy… Seen as the Remain campaign’s trump card, polling has consistently shown this to be one of the main concerns for the British public when it comes to making their decision. What did the panellists say? Opening for the Remain side, Ben Patterson, a former Conservative MEP, criticised the current national debate as two sides ‘hurling statistics’ at each other. He argued what was important was having a single regulatory framework in order to facilitate trade, adding: “The single market gives us enormous opportunities. It makes obvious sense, if you have goods moving around, to have only one set of regulations rather than 28 conflicting ones. “We need to be ‘at the table’ when these decisions which affect us are being made.” He said Britain had ‘benefitted hugely’ from its

Wednesday 1st June 2016

access to the market, and much of it was the result of British influence, adding: “The single market is our creation, why would we want to leave it?” His views were echoed by fellow Remain panellist Professor Philip Davis, a former Bank of England economist. Professor Davis said the UK’s future would be ‘extraordinarily bleak’ if there was a Brexit, adding: “It is young people who are most at risk.” He questioned what type of trade relationship Britain would have with Europe afterwards and accused those supporting an Out vote of not having any clarity on the issue. “Britain has benefitted from growth and inward investment brought about through the remarkable growth in trade we have experienced by being part of a single market with over 500 million consumers. Car plants have come here, the City (of London) has grown remarkably – those things are at risk.” Andy Bagnall, of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), highlighted the fact that 80 per cent of businesses belonging to the CBI wished to

stay within the EU, claiming they fear a ‘significant economic shock’ if Britain were to leave. He added: “Currently around 50 per cent of our trade is with the EU, whereas it is less than ten per cent the other way round. To say they need us more than we need them is not true.” Dr Gerard Lyons, an economist and former adviser to Boris Johnson, hit back for the Brexit campaign, arguing there was no need to be in the EU to trade with the bloc. “Thanks to globalisation, economics no longer knows borders. In contrast, the EU has become centralising, regulating and controlling. It is like walking on an escalator in the wrong direction and it is going to get worse. “The EU is the slowest-growing region in the world and at its core is the unstable euro. It is uncertain and dangerous. If we exit the EU we can trade freely under World Trade Organisation rules and trade with who we want.” Anna Firth, a lawyer and Conservative Party member campaigning for Out, highlighted the EU’s perceived inability to make any significant trade deals with growing economies as one reason why the UK should leave. “The EU has signed roughly ¤7trillion (£5.34trillion) worth of trade deals, whereas a country the size of Switzerland has managed to sign ¤40trillion. That is what we could do if we did it ourselves.” She added that while trading under WTO rules, any tariffs would be ‘wiped out’ and offset by a devaluation in the pound. In addition, she berated the CBI and other organisations making economic cases for Remain for being the same people who argued for Britain to join the euro: “And look at what would have happened if we had.” Lastly for Brexit was Brendan Chilton, of the Labour Leave campaign, who said remaining in the EU would mean workers were being undercut by cheap labour and seeing their wages squeezed. He also countered Mr Bagnall, stating: “Germany exports £11.5billion worth of cars to us every year, Italy sell us £360million worth of shoes and France £940million worth of wine. “Do you really think they are going to cut off their nose to spite their face? Of course they are not and it is nonsense to suggest so.”

EU DEBATE n

Immigration…

Sovereignty…

A hot topic, with recent studies showing net migration reaching an all-time high, with 330,000 more people entering the UK than leaving last year. This figure is driven by a record number of immigrants from the EU. The issue ties in with matters of security, national identity and economics. It is the main focus of the Out campaign so far.

The most abstract of the arguments due to the difficulty in quantifying it and the subjective nature of what constitutes sovereignty. Nonetheless, it is an emotive topic and one that is often the cause of the bitterest disputes.

What did the panellists say? Professor Davis, on the Remain panel, was the first person to speak on the issue. He said: “Freedom of movement is a fundamental part of the European Union and it is a two-way street. “Clearly there are about 3.3 million EU citizens in the UK, but there are about 2.2 million UK citizens who spend at least part of the year in the EU.” He added that concerns about job losses, wages and the capacity of the infrastructure were ‘misplaced’ because “Immigrants bring income, tax revenue and some set up firms, too, creating more jobs. “It is a failure of the British Government, not the EU, to not train people in this country to fill those roles.”

‘People should be allowed to come into this country based on their skills’ Mr Bagnall also supported the free movement of people, arguing they plug gaps where there is a skills shortage and actually increase job security. He said: “Having the free movement means firms can employ people without all the hassle of visas and any other admin to get the staff with the skills they require. Recalling the example of a company which makes specialist pumps for the North Sea, Mr Bagnall said without their access to foreign skilled labour the firm would go bust. “If you shut the border and prevented them from drawing on that wide pool of talent it is not protecting jobs here, it would cost jobs because it would go out of business and you would lose the jobs it supports here.” Mr Patterson received the biggest cheer of the night when he warned that far from seeing services under too much pressure, ‘the NHS would have collapsed if it were not for immigration’.

QUESTIONS Members of the audience have their say (here and below) There is an ‘awful lot of rubbish’ said about immigration, Mr Patterson believes, claiming that the majority of migrants are actually from ‘outside of the EU’ and many of them are students. Mrs Firth, speaking for Out, conceded there was a skills shortage in the UK, adding that these vacancies were being filled by people from the EU. She continued: “But in my opinion this is a question of fairness and a question of finances. Because the reality is, whether your firm needs them or not, the sheer number of people coming in is simply unsustainable.” She compared the influx to having to accommodate a town the size of Newcastle each year, saying: “People should be allowed to come into this country based on their skills, not their country of birth.” Mr Chilton spoke passionately on the topic, saying the EU was allowing the ‘exploitation’ of workers due to free movement. “What we actually have as members of the European Union is not free movement of people, but free movement of labour. “Companies have the ability to move cheap labour around the continent to suit the needs of profit. I believe we should be treating people fairly and decently but what we have seen across the EU is wages going down.” He flagged up a comment by Stuart Rose, the former Marks & Spencer Chief Executive – and advocate of a Remain vote – who ‘warned’ that if Britain left, wages would rise. “I don’t know about you,” he told the audience, “but I would quite like wages to go up in this country. Being in the EU is a drive to the bottom.”

What did the panellists say? Mr Chilton made an impassioned speech for why we should leave. “We are told the European Union is some benevolent institution that does us all good. Tell that to the millions unemployed in Greece that suffer austerity and the young people in Spain whose futures have been blighted. “Tell that to all those suffering and opposing the centralisation of power in this undemocratic union. The EU executive, the European Commission with people like (EC President JeanClaude) Juncker in it, is unaccountable and we cannot remove them. “Not one of them has faced the ballot box. You cannot put a price on democracy and the House of Commons had no right to surrender the sovereignty which it has without the consent of the British people. “We should vote for freedom and vote for the real progressive alternative – an independent Britain with the ability to govern itself and determine its own future.” Backing Mr Chilton’s point, Mrs Firth said: “When you take into account regulations from the Commission, combined with direct legislation, then 64 per cent of the rules we enforce come from Brussels.

13

“In other words, the majority of time now spent in government is doing things the Commission is asking us to do. “The minority of time is now spent on domestic UK business that we vote our politicians in to do. It is the wrong way round and the only way to reverse it is vote Leave. “Do we want to be a part of the United States of Europe, much like a state in America, or do we want to be more like Canada – to have a trade relationship while maintaining our sovereignty?” Mr Lyons suggested the ‘democratic deficit’ was part of the reason why Europe was now seeing a rise in extremist parties. He said: “It is amazing how much power has been ceded to the EU, how little influence we do have, which was shown by how the Prime Minister did not achieve any reform in his attempted renegotiation. “When the Prime Minister pushed for reform from the EU, he asked for little, he got even less.” Mr Bagnall retorted that most of the rules and regulations are so specific that they have little real impact on Britain, using an example of Danish fishery rules, which must be observed here in theory but do not affect the UK. He said: “They are using a number which creates

Wednesday 1st June 2016

14 ■ EU DEBATE

an impression of a dominance by the EU over issues discussed in Parliament. “But just look at the Queen’s Speech, there are a huge number of bills in there and hardly any of them are a direct result of the EU.” Professor Davis mocked the idea of Britain ever being truly liberated from outside influence stating: “Sovereignty is not an absolute concept – it is not like pregnancy, where you are either pregnant or you are not. Sovereignty is a relative concept. “You pool it in order to get control over things like cross-border pollution, financial regulation and other aspects that we need to control in terms of globalisation.” He pointed out that the country has signed 700 treaties with multilateral compromises: “Do you want to abrogate all of those? “If you want absolute sovereignty you can be

Roundup…

like North Korea, but I don’t think that is what people want. “We have influence in exchange for the sovereignty we have pooled. Britain is strong enough to lead in the European Union and that is what we should be doing.”

‘Is it all going to a single European state? That idea died a long time ago’ Mr Patterson, echoing Professor Davis, said: “The House of Commons has voluntarily surrendered certain aspects of our sovereignty for the greater good and in order to uphold our international treaty obligations.” He added: “The important thing is to be there when the decisions are taken rather than just leave it and let others make the decisions. Is it all going to a single European state? As far as I know, that idea died a long time ago.”

ENSURING FAIR PLAY Chairman Andy Bell

The vigorous debate clearly exposed a divided audience with the more impassioned rhetoric often bringing cheers from the supporters of each camp. Ultimately,

The Out panel… Dr Gerard Lyons (left) An economist who has repeatedly been awarded ‘top forecaster’ by The Sunday Times, he predicted in 1999 that the euro would run into trouble. Mr Lyons was also an adviser to Boris Johnson while he was the Mayor of London. Brendan Chilton (centre) The General Secretary of the Labour Leave campaign, he unsuccessfully stood as the Labour

however, the Out campaign had less success in winning over the undecided voters, resulting in a further shift towards Remain during the post-debate vote.

candidate for Ashford, Kent in the 2015 General Election. A local councillor for Ashford Borough Council, he is also director of the Swales Academies Trust in Sittingbourne. Anna Firth (right) A Conservative representative for Erith and Thamesmead and a lawyer by profession, Mrs Firth is a strong supporter of an Out vote in the upcoming European Referendum and focuses on encouraging women to support a Brexit.

LEAVE (L-R) Dr Gerard Lyons, Brendan Chilton and Anna Firth

The In panel…

Ben Patterson (left) A former President of the West Kent European Movement and Conservative MEP, Mr Patterson is a writer with publications including The Conservative Party and Europe (2012) and most recently a book of science fiction short stories. Professor E Philip Davis (centre) Visiting Fellow of the National Institute of Economic and Social Research and Professor of Banking and Finance at Brunel University, Mr

REMAIN (L-R) Ben Patterson, Prof Philip Davis and Andy Bagnall

Davis has worked as an economist at the Bank of England, the Bank for International Settlements and the European Monetary Institute. Andy Bagnall (right) Director of Campaigns at the CBI, Mr Bagnall has a background in election organisation at local and national level including running the leadership campaign for David Miliband in 2010 as well as advising on state elections in Sydney, Australia.

Who were the business panel, what did they say and how would they vote? Andrew Osborne – MD Single Source Binding Machines (left) Owner of a binding machine company in Tunbridge Wells which sources most of its products from Germany, a known advocate of Brexit and on firstname terms with UKIP leader Nigel Farage. What he said: “If you look at the problems when you get a big bloc working together like the USA or the EU, we all sink if we are in it together. Look how long it takes to get a decision. We are missing out on so much.” Position before debate: Voting out Position after: Voting out Matthew Sankey – Owner of Sankeys chain (centre) Mr Sankey took over the management and majority

Wednesday 1st June 2016

ownership of Sankey’s seafood restaurant and bar on Mount Ephraim from his father, before expanding into wholesale, a fishmongers and an upmarket venue on The Pantiles. What he said: “If we come out of the EU we’d be able to alter VAT legislation, power and energy. The hospitality industry has been trying to lobby for reduced rates, we’re often told you can’t have that as you’re in the EU. France, Spain, Germany have got it, how would leaving change that?” Position before debate: Undecided Position after: Voting to remain Marcus Coles – Maviga plc (right) Based in Yalding, Mr Coles founded Maviga in 1994. The company trades globally in dried crops, pulses and other speciality crops,

LOCAL ECONOMY PANEL (L-R) Andrew Osborne, Matthew Sankey and Marcus Coles including sesame seeds. What he said: “The whole theme and colour of this is that we have a lot going for us right now, we’ve got a foot in Europe. What’s going to be so much

better about leaving it?” Position before debate: Voting to remain Position after: Voting to remain

NEWS ROUNDUP 

15

Unfest draws the crowds THOUSANDS of people flocked to the pubs, bars and music venues of Tunbridge Wells over the Bank Holiday weekend to celebrate one of the town’s largest musical events.

Unfest 2016 saw a dozen town venues – including the Tunbridge Wells Museum – host hundreds of acts, spanning across all four days of the extra-long weekend.

The free, not-for-profit festival is organised each year by Forum co-owners Jason Dormon and Richard Simm, alongside Forum PR Manager Carolyn Gray and numerous volunteers.

BIG WEEKEND Revellers soak up the atmosphere at The Forum

Starjumpz teams up with Tree of Hope THE Starjumpz Children’s Therapy Centre has relocated from Tunbridge Wells to Crowborough. Owned by the Tree of Hope charity, the new premises are at The Old Saw Mill at Ashdown Business Park. The two organisations will collaborate to make life-changing treatments and therapies more accessible to sick and disabled children from across the UK. For 27 years Starjumpz has provided pioneering services and treatments to children with learning, developmental,

motor and behavioural challenges. Jo Brett, the Chief Executive of Starjumpz, said: “We are thrilled to have found both the ultimate home for our services together with the opportunity to work with Tree of Hope, a highly regarded and inspirational UK charity.” Over the next few months free drop-in clinics will be offered with Dr Georgie Siggers, as well as a series of talks for parents and professionals. For more information, visit www.starjumpz.com

PASTURES NEW The Starjumpz team

Donation will help young sports stars THE Berkeley Foundation has made a £10,000 grant to The Number One Community Trust in Tunbridge Wells to help with the refurbishment of its community hall serving the Showfields and Ramslye estates. The money will be spent on improving sports facilities at the hall, which was secured by the Trust last summer.

The Trust’s new Chair, Janet Phythian, said: “This will enable us to develop our community hall for sports for young people and others in the community. “We will be able to resurface the floor, which is in great need of repair, provide protection for the lighting and paint sports lines for five-a-side football, badminton and other sports.”

It wasn’t just about the music either, with poetry sessions, artistic displays and a literary project called Fest Fiction also thrown into the mix. Mrs Gray said: “It was a very diverse festival and it went really well with no major hiccups. The weather was favourable which helped ensure lots of people were having a good time.” Mr Dormon added: “Unfest is always evolving and its success is based on the volunteers involved and we would like to make a toast and thank everyone that took part and who came with open minds to watch.” One post on Facebook appeared to sum up the general mood of all who had attended. Thomas Heasman wrote: “Such a good Bank Holiday weekend. Thank you organisers for putting on a totally FREE event making this town a better place to live.”

IN GEAR 76-year-old Colin Mildwater

Long trip down memory lane SEPTUAGENARIAN Colin Mildwater will start his epic challenge to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats tomorrow [Thursday]. The 76-year-old is undertaking the feat in memory of two of his children who died young. His son Andrew passed away an hour after being born and his daughter Laura was killed by a motorist at the age of six. A keen cyclist, Colin is raising money for Together for Short Lives, a charity for children with life-threatening and lifelimiting conditions. Colin has lived in Five Oak Green for 20 years and regularly pedals around the county with the San Fairy Ann Cycling Club. He said: “Losing a child is one of the most life-changing episodes that any parent can experience. The memory of that child is with you for the rest of your life. “I therefore think it very appropriate that as a long-distance cyclist I should do my last big ride to raise funds for Together for Short Lives. “When a child dies all you have is memories, and all I hope is that the money I raise will in some small way make those memories happier.” If you would like to support Colin, visit www.colincares.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

16  NATIONAL NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

100-year-old ‘enemies’ unite for Jutland memorial service

Marcus makes it into England Euro squad MANCHESTER United striker Marcus Rashford is heading to Euro 2016 after Roy Hodgson decided to cut Andros Townsend and Danny Drinkwater from the England squad. The 18 year old was initially named as part of the 26-strong provisional party on May 17, and survived the cut when the Three Lions boss had to whittle the squad down by three ahead of yesterday’s UEFA deadline. Manchester City’s Fabian Delph had already dropped out due to a groin injury.

Capital high on cocaine LONDON is the cocaine capital of Europe for the second year running, an official study of drug concentrations in sewage reveals. Analysis by the EU’s drug monitoring agency showed the average daily concentration of cocaine in London’s wastewater was 909mg per 1,000 people last year – up from 737mg in 2014. The Europe-wide study analysed wastewater in more than 60 European cities and towns to gain an insight into drug use. Cocaine is the most commonly used illicit stimulant drug in Europe, with an estimated 2.4 million young adults between 15 and 34 having taken the drug in the last year.

Twins for Ronnie Wood ROLLING Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood became a father again to twin girls just two days before his 69th birthday today (June 1). He and his wife Sally, 38, welcomed Gracie Jane (6lb) and Alice Rose (5.7lb) on May 30 at 10.30pm. The twins are his fifth and sixth children, but the first for him and his theatre producer wife.

Staff suffer from obesity AROUND 1,000 NHS workers have been injured while caring for obese patients over the last five years, Freedom of Information data shows. Injuries included sprained necks, hernias, kicks to the ribs, muscle tears, trapped fingers and slipped discs, the Sun newspaper reported.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

NAVAL SALUTE Prime Minister David Cameron (centre) stands alongside German President Joachim Gauck and the Princess Royal THE centenary of the biggest naval battle of the First World War was marked yesterday with a service at St Magnus Cathedral on Orkney, paying tribute to the thousands of sailors who lost their lives. David Cameron, Nicola Sturgeon and the Princess Royal – standing in

for her father, the Duke of Edinburgh, who was unable to attend because of illness – joined descendants of those who fought at the Battle of Jutland to remember the 8,648 seamen who died in the most decisive sea engagement of the war. German President Joachim Gauck

was also in attendance. It was 100 years to the day since British and German ships engaged in a 36-hour conflict off the coast of Denmark, which led to the devastating losses and changed the course of the war. Guests, naval officers and descendants passed a display of thousands of ceramic poppies installed in tribute to the war as they arrived at the UK’s most northerly cathedral in Kirkwall. A candle of remembrance was lit and wreaths were also laid at the cathedral, while a speciallycommissioned piece of music by the late composer and Orkney resident Sir Peter Maxwell Davies was performed. A second service will be held later at Lyness Cemetery on the island of Hoy – the final resting place for more

than 450 service personnel who died in the war, including sailors killed at Jutland. The cemetery stands close to Scapa Flow, from where the British Grand Fleet set out for the Jutland Bank to repel the German High Seas Fleet attempting to break a British blockade. Almost 250 ships took part, creating a scale of battle that has not been seen since. There will also be a remembrance service at sea where British and German naval representatives will scatter poppies and forget-me-nots – the German flower of remembrance – into the North Sea at Jutland Bank. Those gathered at the service heard gun salutes from HMS Kent and observed a two-minute silence before the ship’s bell of HMS Calliope was sounded.

Patients kept in the dark about ambulance delays THE Chief Executive of a scandal-hit ambulance trust, whose salary, pension and benefits package was worth more than £255,000 a year, has left his post. Paul Sutton, who led South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, has ‘left to pursue other interests’, the trust said in a statement. He had been on an agreed leave of absence after a damning report in March found there was a scheme to delay ambulances to patients. The secret project was labelled ‘high risk’ and did not have approval from board members, the 111 NHS helpline or commissioners. Up to 20,000 patients were affected. Mr Sutton’s departure follows the resignation of the trust’s Chairman, Tony Thorne, in March. The annual accounts for the trust in 2014/15 show Mr Sutton received a salary of £160,000 to £165,000, plus £4,900 in other benefits and more than £90,000 in pension-related benefits.

His total package for the year was worth £255,000 to £260,000. Mr Thorne was paid a salary of £40,000 to £45,000. The Deloitte review in March said there was a strong suggestion of an ‘intentional effort by members of the executive team’ to present their scheme in a positive light despite its governance failings and risks. Executives ran their project – without approval – to delay sending ambulances until advisers had time to assess some calls coming through the 111 telephone system. National rules say 75 per cent of Category A Red 2 calls should have an emergency response at the scene within eight minutes. These calls are for conditions regarded as serious, such as strokes or fits. Under the controversial scheme, the ambulance trust gave itself up to ten extra minutes to reassess what type of advice or treatment patients needed, and whether an ambulance was really necessary.

But patients were kept in the dark about the project, as were 111 call handlers and the trust’s board. The report said the Chief Executive made the ultimate decision to proceed with the pilot and played a critical leadership role throughout. It was Mr Sutton who drove forward the idea of Red 2 calls being put through the pilot. In one conference call chaired by Mr Sutton in which Red 2 calls were added to the project, objections were raised by senior managers but they were ultimately persuaded by the Chief Executive to include Red 2 calls in the pilot. The report said: “The CEO’s directive and persuasive management style, coupled with an impending restructure of the executive team, meant that the level of challenge over the pilot within the organisation was inhibited.” When interviewed, members of staff at the trust said the decision to reassess Red 2 calls ‘came from the top’ and Mr Sutton had given a ‘direct instruction’.

NATIONAL NEWS �

17

Coastline security faces threat from channel hoppers MIGRANTS are attempting to cross the Channel between France and England in boats because of improved security measures at the tunnel and ferry port in Calais. Immigration union officials have warned that Britain’s coast is now facing one of its greatest ever breaches from small vessels and dinghies carrying migrants. To combat this, Downing Street has confirmed that the coastline will be protected by the introduction of more vessels which will become operational in the coming months, although a full deployment of the new boats will not take place until the end of next year.

‘We take every necessary action to protect our border security and will continue to do so’ The announcement comes after an incident on Saturday in which 18 Albanians had to be rescued from an inflatable boat which was sinking off the Kent coast. “We take every necessary action to protect our border security and will continue to do so,” said a Downing Street spokesman. The important thing is that our approach is intelligence-based. “So we have worked with the French government at Calais to secure the border there and since

we put security measures in place we have seen a small number of migrants trying to use more dangerous routes to get to the UK.” Border Force is currently using a combination of its cutters, radar and aerial surveillance to detect and stop small craft approaching the UK. Fears have been raised about the possible tragic consequences of migrants attempting to cross one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. The Downing Street spokesman said: “We are always concerned about possible deaths, which is why, for example, there are naval vessels deployed in the Mediterranean to assist with the operations there.” New maritime powers came into effect yesterday (Tuesday) which will make it easier for Border Force officials to patrol the UK’s coastline and tackle the smuggling of illegal immigrants into the country. Border Force officers will have the power to board boats and arrest anyone who is facilitating illegal migration. On Monday, Lucy Moreton, the General Secretary of the Immigration Services Union, said that large stretches of Britain’s coastline are being left unpoliced and officials simply do not know how many people have sneaked into the country undetected. She said her ‘gut feeling’ and anecdotal evidence suggest Britain’s coasts are facing the biggest ever onslaught of people smugglers. COAST TO COAST New maritime powers have now come into force

Whether you are looking for kitchen, dining or living furniture, upholstery or accessories the showroom in Tonbridge has it all

easyJet gets tough on late arrivals BUDGET airline easyJet has introduced a crackdown on late passengers by stopping anyone going through airport security at London Gatwick if there are less than 30 minutes remaining until their flight. Customers have previously been allowed to make a dash for the plane even though gates officially close half an hour before take-off. But the new rule at the airport means boarding passes will not allow access to board a flight within 30 minutes of its departure. An easyJet spokeswoman said the policy was introduced to benefit travellers who arrive at the West Sussex airport on time. “Punctuality is important to our passengers and that is why we ask passengers to be at the gate no later than 30 minutes before the

flight departs,” she said. “This means that if passengers are still yet to clear security they will be unable to achieve this, particularly at larger airports like Gatwick when walks to some gates can take up to 20 minutes.” She added that the scheme would ‘eliminate unnecessary journeys’ for passengers who need to return landside after reaching the gate too late. British Airways runs a similar policy at Heathrow Terminal Five, where the limit is 35 minutes. easyJet customers are offered the chance to take out missed flight cover before the departure time for £7.50. In the event that they arrive too late to board their booked flight they are able to get a full refund or a seat on the next available flight. Those without cover are charged £80 to catch the next flight.

Located just off the High Street, opposite Waitrose car park

Wednesday 1st June 2016

6:9 Purt~ I

Join us for a FREE

I:

From Fillers to Facelifts, Breasts to Body Contouring, our Consultant Plastic Surgeons are here for you , , I felt in safe hands at all times and am delighted with the results , , -MsSG

BUSINESS NEWS �

19

DAMAGE LIMITATION Volkswagen set aside £12.7billion for its emissions recalls and costs

VW ‘satisfied’ despite drop in pre-tax profits VOLKSWAGEN has seen profits tumble by nearly a fifth since the start of 2016 as the company continues to grapple with the fall-out from its global emissions scandal. The group posted a 19.3 per cent drop in pre-tax profits to €3.2billion (£2.4billion) for the three months to the end of March, with revenues down 3.4 per cent. But chief executive Matthias Müller insists this is still a ‘respectable’ result, with operating profits edging 3.4 per cent higher to €3.4billion (£2.6billion) from €3.3billion (£2.5billion) a year earlier, boosted by one-off effects. He said: “In light of the wide range of challenges we are currently facing, we are satisfied overall with the start we have made to what will undoubtedly be a demanding fiscal year in 2016. “We once again managed to limit the economic effects of the diesel issue and achieve respectable results under difficult conditions.” Volkswagen faces heavy costs for recalls and fixes to cars with engine-control software that evaded emissions tests. It has earmarked £12.7billion to cover recalls and other costs for 11 million cars sold with the software globally.

The group’s operating profits have risen thanks in part to €300million (£229million) of currency gains on provisions that had been put by to pay for its diesel emissions scandal. Its first-quarter results revealed plummeting sales in Russia and Brazil due to economic downturns, with revenues down 35 per cent and 17 per cent respectively. Earnings slipped for its Audi brand to €1.3billion (£99million) from €1.4billion (£1.1billion) a year earlier, but its Porsche business delivered a 14 per cent rise in underlying operating profits to €895million (£683million). Volkswagen, which is based in Wolfsburg, Germany, has reached a tentative agreement over its emissions scandal in a federal court in San Francisco with US authorities to buy back or repair around 500,000 vehicles. The Volkswagen Group has a 12.3 per cent share of the world’s car market, with 12 brands from seven European countries. These include Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi, SEAT, Skoda, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Scania and MAN.

BUSINESS IN BRIEF

EU message on pub mats

Trade confidence sinks

PUB chain JD Wetherspoon is placing 200,000 beer mats in its 920 pubs across the UK in the run-up to the June 23 referendum with a message urging the UK to leave the European Union. The company’s plans were announced in the same week that 51 members of the European Round Table of Industrialists, including the bosses of Shell, Vodafone and Rolls-Royce, signed a letter in support of Britain’s membership of the European Union.

THE number of firms expecting trade to pick up over the coming year has fallen to its lowest level in three years, according to The Lloyds Bank Business Barometer in May. It found sentiment among firms in the consumer services sector fell by 14 points to 19 per cent, also the lowest level for more than three years. However, the industrial sector lifted by 16 points to 61 per cent, the highest level since last spring.

Time Out may float

Alliance merger talks

MEDIA group Time Out is considering a stock market flotation that is expected to value the firm at up to £225million. Time Out, which has transformed itself into a global digital media and e-commerce group in recent years, wants to raise £90million by selling new shares to fund expansion of its food markets business and pay down debt, according to reports.

SHARES in Alliance Trust surged 3.64 per cent this week after a company with links to the Rothschild banking dynasty confirmed it is in talks to potentially take over the Scottish investment firm. RIT Capital Partners, chaired by financier Jacob Rothschild, said on Tuesday that discussions over a £5billion merger with the company are at a ‘preliminary stage’.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

20  WORLD NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

Zoo is still safe place for tourists says boss CINCINNATI Zoo remains safe for its 1.6million annual visitors despite the drama in which a gorilla was fatally shot to protect a four-year-old boy who had entered its enclosure, says the US tourist attraction’s director Thane Maynard. However, a review is under way to determine any improvements that can make the zoo safer after the male western lowland gorilla named Harambe was killed by a special zoo response team who feared for the boy’s safety.

North Koreans attempt another missile launch TV COVERAGE Seoul reported on the failure of the North Korean missile

More lives lost at sea AT LEAST 880 lives have been lost because of capsized boats over the last week in the Mediterranean, according to accounts given to the UN refugee agency by survivors. UN spokesman William Spindler said this year is proving to be ‘particularly deadly’ with some 2,510 lives lost compared to 1,855 over the same period a year ago.

Brink of survival IN THE last three years, more than 1.2million Afghans have been forced to flee their homes due to violence caused by the Taliban waging war on the country’s government since their regime was toppled in the 2001 US invasion, claims Amnesty International. The numbers have grown as the war, now in its 15th year, intensifies, and Amnesty says many of the internally displaced ‘live in horrific conditions on the brink of survival’.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

NORTH Korea has again failed in its efforts to launch a powerful missile said to have the potential to reach US military bases in Asia and the Pacific. Tuesday’s experiment was the latest in a string of attempts that have raised concerns Pyongyang is pushing quickly towards its goal of a nucleartipped missile that can reach America’s mainland. South Korea’s Yonhap news agency said in an unsourced report that the missile was a powerful mid-range Musudan, which, if true, would make it the fourth failure by the North to conduct a successful test launch. Yonhap, citing an unidentified government source, said the missile exploded at a mobile launch pad as soon as a launch button was pressed. Other reports suggest the missile may have even failed to lift off. North Korea’s nuclear and missile activity this year includes a nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch in February that

outsiders see as a test of banned long-range missile technology. The most recent example follows South Korea’s rejection of recent Pyongyang overtures to talk, part of what some analysts see as an attempt by the North to win concessions from its rivals. In April, North Korea attempted unsuccessfully to launch three suspected powerful intermediaterange Musudan missiles, which all exploded in mid-air or crashed, according to South Korean defence officials. The officials in Seoul, South Korea’s capital, believe the missile launches follow an order from the country’s leader Kim Jong Un in March to conduct tests of a nuclear warhead and ballistic missiles that are capable of carrying such warheads. That order was thought to be part of Pyongyang’s reaction to annual South Korea-US military drills that it sees as an invasion rehearsal. Musudan missiles have a potential range of about 3,500 kilometers (2,180 miles), which would put US military bases in Guam within their striking distance. South Korea believes the North does not yet possess a missile capable of hitting the US mainland, but is working on the technology. Before April’s suspected launches, North Korea had never flight-tested a Musudan missile, though one was displayed during a military parade in 2010 in Pyongyang.

SPORT IN BRIEF

England players set new Test match firsts JAMES Anderson, aged 33, has jumped above his England pace partner Stuart Broad to the top of the International Cricket Council’s Test bowling rankings for the first time in his career. England’s all-time leading Test wickettaker took his tally beyond 450 this week in the series-sealing victory over Sri Lanka at Chester-le-Street – where he was named man of the match. His achievement came in the same match as his England colleague Alastair Cook, aged 31, became the first Englishman to reach 10,000 runs in Test cricket and youngest to achieve the feat worldwide.

Ford will bounce back FORMER Bath rugby coach Mike Ford believes his sacking has affected the form of his England fly-half son George, who was booed after missing six of his seven kicks at goal during Sunday’s 27-13 victory over Wales at Twickenham. Mr Ford believes his son has the mental strength to rebound from his poor performance and can lead the England line against the Wallabies in Brisbane on June 11.

New United contract MANCHESTER United midfielder Michael Carrick, aged 34, whose contract with the club was set to end this summer after 10 successful seasons at Old Trafford, has signed a new deal, according to sources at the club.

HAPPY NATIONAL FISH AND CHIP DAY FRIDAY 3RD JUNE 2016 ~+~ TO CELEBRATE

ST JOHNS FISH BAR is giving away small cod and chips for only £4 TO ALL TUNBRIDGE WELLS TIMES READERS Collection only, only valid on the 3rd June 2016

22  LETTERS

And another thing… The Times of Tunbridge Wells and the Times of Tonbridge always want to hear your feedback, whether on reports we have printed or any other issues you think we should know about. Email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or write to the Editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU BRAIN WAVE Chiddingstone Primary School’s winning holiday plan

School holidays: Shorter terms are just the ticket

Thank you for publishing the story on Chiddingstone Primary school (May 25) which revealed it’s giving its pupils longer holidays in exchange for 20 minutes extra in school every day. As a working parent who, like so many others, is held to ransom by holiday companies due to them hiking their prices up every time a school break looms, I sincerely applaud this stance. By adding just 20 minutes extra on to the normal school day, pupils at Chiddingstone Primary

EU debate: Short memory

now get an extra week on the May and October half terms. I realise they are an academy but surely our local schools could consider a similar move? It would certainly please a lot of parents, pupils and more than likely a lot of teachers. Doing so would really be a small price to pay and mean that us parents don’t have to pay over the odds if we fancy taking our children away for a well-deserved break during the school holidays. At the moment prices for flights, ferries and accommodation jump to almost twice the price if you want to go away

Your correspondent John Ward Moorhouse (May 25) seems to have a very short memory for someone who is so keen to talk history. He claims that the EU can only have been trying to prevent wars since it received its latest title in 1993, while NATO has been doing so since 1949. In fact the Treaty of Paris, signed in 1951, saw the creation of the EU’s first incarnation, the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), which was tasked with reviving economies after the Second World War, preventing further conflict in Europe and bring about a ‘lasting peace’. Before then, Winston Churchill described ‘the tragedy of Europe’ at the University of Zurich in 1946 and called for a ‘kind of United States of Europe’, something he had already touted during the war. Two years later he was Chairman at the Congress of Europe in the Hague, when the first federal body was formed on the continent. And in London in 1949 the Treaty of London established the Council of Europe ‘to achieve a greater unity between its members for the purpose of safeguarding and realising the ideals and principles which are their common heritage and facilitating their economic and social progress’.

when school’s out for summer, winter or Easter. The travel companies should really be ashamed of themselves for making money out of us knowing full well most schools will fine us if we take our children out of school. I hope that our Local Education Authority will note this move by Chiddingstone Primary and act accordingly. If we want our future generations to thrive then surely giving them longer holidays in which to relax where their parents aren’t sacrificing too much financially makes perfect sense to me. Adding this extra time on to the school day is also a bonus for those working who struggle to pick up at the usual time of 3.25pm. It’s a win-win, children can learn more, we can put more time in at the office and we’ll be better off as holiday companies won’t be able to charge us ridiculous amounts of money – until they find out about it, but we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Rhiannon McAvoy Via email

Human rights, democracy and freedom were a crucial component of its mission. And by the way, I’m not sure it really matters that the Balkans, Georgia and the Ukraine were not EU members when war came to haunt them. The fact is that they are on the doorsteps of EU members. Employing Mr Moorhouse’s thinking, if we leave the EU and then get attacked, our former brothers in arms can just stand by and watch us get beaten up. So I think that F-minus for history is yours, not David Cameron’s. Pater Bayliss Via Email

EU debate: Turkish accession

“The reddest of red herrings,” said Harriet Baldwin, MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, today (May 23): “The issue is not even on the table.” What was she talking about? Turkish accession into the EU of course. This is another of the scare tactics used by the Out Campaign to obfuscate the argument. Turks have been living and working in the UK for decades. They have successful businesses here and are not the ‘murderers, thieves, cheats or terrorists’ that Brixiteers make them out to be. In fact, they find this highly insulting as you or I would if you were described as such as a foreigner

living in the EU or anywhere else in the world. However, this is part of the arsenal that Brexiteers hope will sway the voting public to their side. They have lost the economic argument and all they have left are insults, hyperbole or half-baked ideas. Marguerita Morton Secretary and Fundraising Chair Tunbridge Wells Liberal Democrats Via email

The council: Travelling expenses

I notice from an advert on page 21 (May 25) that Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Leader David Jukes has claimed over £2,600 in travelling and subsistence over the past year. If we had a leader who actually lived in Tunbridge Wells, rather than across the border in Crowborough, then it might well become both more democratic and accountable, as well as saving council taxpayers, money. Unfortunately he has just been re-elected as Leader to 2020, costing us a further £10,000 at least in travel expenses at the current rate of claims. Dr Alan Bullion Via email

Food: ‘Communist-socialist chic’

What on earth is ‘communist-socialist chic’? I only ask because when I was reading through the back pages of your publication (May 25) I came across an advertorial for a restaurant called The Warren and this was how they described their décor. In fact, if communist-socialist chic weren’t enigmatic enough, it is blended with ‘hints’ of Versailles country farmhouse and Bavarian hunting lodge. What does all this even mean? Now I am not an interior designer, and I suppose I am not at the avant-garde of fashion, but the whole thing comes across as a really interesting place – with a menu which also appears to be traditional English fare. The whole thing seems so Tunbridge Wells and you see why this town is often singled out for being just that little bit different. Christopher Jenkins Via email

Theatre: Really pleased

Thanks for the lovely article and coverage in The Times of Tonbridge/Tunbridge Wells (May 18). The youth theatre, wider Oast and I are all really pleased with it, with several of the youth parents contacting me to say how nice it was there was coverage of what we are doing. I also heard from quite a few people who used to be members who are pleased to see we are still going strong, and have had some enquiries from new members. We will be putting a copy up on the wall of our rehearsal room. Thanks again, Jason Lower Director Oast Youth Theatre

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

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Calverley BUILDING relationships with your staff can often be challenging. This particular boss was advised by business consultants to put some distance between himself and his workers. He’s a friendly type and some of them were taking advantage of his relaxed manner. All was going swimmingly and respect was being restored until a business trip where he ended up skinnydipping with seven of his staff. Two of them were women. WISE words from my dear friend Rosemary Shrager. She’ll be taking to the stage at the 50+ show at Olympia in July offering advice on life when you’re grown up. She shares with Calverley one of her favourite tips: “Grandchildren are an enduring delight – love every minute you spend with them, then give them back and have a G&T.” Knowing the celebrity chef that would, of course, be a large G&T. TRYING to impress her townie friends, the country woman sitting to the right of Calverley at a dinner the other night told them how much she enjoyed taking care of her one-acre ‘garden’ somewhere near Wadhurst. She rather spoiled the effect, though, when she declared: “Yes, I really enjoy hoovering the grass.” HIMSELF has never been a big fan of Twitter. (What can you say in 140 characters that’s meaningful?) The view was reinforced by this young man, who proudly announced on opening his account: “To all my fans I have arrived.” Not quite old chum. Last time Calverley checked you had 17 followers. DOCTORS are never off duty. This was evidenced when Calverley found himself sharing a glass of red at his favourite hostelry with a family GP. (Ironically, when on our second bottle, we were talking about how much alcohol it’s safe to drink.) Anyway, this chap saunters up, tells the doctor he has a few medical issues and asks if he can advise him. Without blinking the GP says: “Not a problem, just strip off and lay down on the bar so I can examine you.” Chin, chin readers

Education in association with:

www.brightyoungthings.co.uk

EDUCATION ■

23

EDUCATION Times WITH THE

Tunbridge Wells pre-school ranked in top tier of UK childcare providers ST GEORGE’S nursery is celebrating its ‘Outstanding’ status following a recent Ofsted inspection. The report also noted that the children there are ‘friendly, sociable and kind’ and that ‘all develop extraordinary maturity and confidence as they play and are exceptionally well-prepared for their future learning.’ Ofsted inspectors visited the nursery facility at the St George’s Community Children’s Project, which also offers a pre-school, after school and holiday club, in April and awarded it its highest rating. This now means that St George’s is in the top 17% of childcare providers in the UK. Over the past year it has undergone considerable structural improvements which has created a spacious and safe environment for children. These recent developments, as well as the organisational changes that have occurred to ensure the project is run more efficiently, were also noted by Ofsted’s repesentatives. Morgane Glew, Business Manager at St George’s, said: “Our fundamental goal is to ensure that we create the best possible environment in which children can flourish and naturally love learning for the rest of their life.”

EDUCATION IN BRIEF

Moonwalking marathon FIFTEEN staff from The Mead School in Tunbridge Wells completed the Moonwalk London 2016 charity walk last month. The team of teachers and school assistants pounded 26.5 miles of pavement in order to raise £3,500 for Walk The Walk’s various breast cancer charities.

By royal appointment THE headmaster of Bennett Memorial, Jon Sparke, and the school’s Duke of Edinburgh Award co-ordinator Nic Ramsden, were invited to Buckingham Palace last week to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of the scheme. Three former Bennett students, who left the school last year, were also present to receive their gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

Euros come to Bethany BRIGHT FUTURE St George’s pupils are ‘friendly, sociable and kind’ St George’s has been established since 1982, employs 52 staff and can provide for up to 90 children. It also operates as a charity which enables

it to extend its services and provide places for vulnerable children through a series of fundraising events and donations.

ACCORD Language schools have teamed up with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Academy to bring a flavour of French football to Bethany School in Goudhurst. It will host both residential and one-day courses for children aged 8-17 which will be taught by PSG coaches over the summer holidays.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

WEST KENT’S ULTIMATE PROPERTY GUIDE – FREE EVERY WEDNESDAY A MUST READ FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BUY, LET OR SELL

The Times is proud to work with:

WITH THE

Available in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks

Fabulous window on world

Gorgeous Georgian country house set in parkland

bracketts est.

Futuristic Warren on forest edge has cinema and gym

Rotherfield coach house is decked for extending

Modernised period property in leafy Broadwater Down

Wednesday 1st June 2016

 PROPERTY SECTION

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

In my view…

Your at-a-glance guide to

Rupert Connell Partner, Office Head Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells

While the rhetoric surrounding the EU Referendum heats up, the property market, which should be at its most active at this time of year, is frustratingly subdued. Once again, as with the General Election last year, it is the uncertainty surrounding the outcome which is causing the market to slow in anticipation. That being said, we are still experiencing good transaction levels and a high number of buyers registering on our database. These buyers emanate from the local area, London, the regions and some re-locating from abroad. Those buyers from overseas are predominantly ex-pats returning to the UK following a period abroad. Typically they are looking to buy in the South East, within easy commuting distance of The City and reasonable school run distance of good schools. The change in Stamp Duty, introducing the extra 3% payable for the purchase of additional homes with effect from 1st April this year, caused a rush of activity in March with transaction numbers reaching a record high that month. Things have normalised now and the ‘wait and see’ effect of the Referendum is undoubtedly making the market more challenging. The horizon period for low interest rates seems to be expanding, with some predicting that it will be 2020 before we see a rate rise, and this is helping to underpin property pricing, combined with the continued imbalance between supply and demand. Despite this, pricing is still critical to the successful sale of a property and there are too many good houses sitting unsold on the market because of overambitious prices driven by either the agent or the vendor. The market will dictate what any given property will sell for but there has to be the requisite exposure and correct marketing strategy to achieve this. Overpricing is a blunt tool that fails to achieve sales. Buyers are tired of it and ignore properties which are obviously priced above where the buying market feels they should be. There are enough buyers in the market at the moment that, with the right approach, competition can still be generated achieving the highest market price for the vendor.

Knight Frank 01892 310997 www.knightfrank.co.uk

GREENVIEW CRESCENT HILDENBOROUGH

£595,000

LAKE COURT, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£220,000 LEASEHOLD UNDER £250,000

newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

DO YOU HAVE A STORY? Wednesday 1st June 2016

A SMART second floor apartment in the popular Lake Court development. The accommodation includes a secure phone entry system, a communal entrance, a private entrance hall, an open-plan fitted kitchen and living room with

double glazed doors to a balcony with views over the lake, a master bedroom with en-suite shower room, a second bedroom and a family bathroom. The property comes with the benefit of gated residents parking. Available to investors only. CONTACT Martin & Co 01892 543856 www.martinco.com

WOODLANDS ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£339,950

UNDER £350,000 A HANDSOME Victorian semidetached home on the fringes of High Brooms. The property is very well presented and benefits from double glazing and gas central heating. On the ground floor there is

a sitting room, a dining room, a kitchen, a rear lobby and a downstairs bathroom, with three bedrooms upstairs. Externally there is a good size garden with terrace and lawn areas, as well as an integral garden storeroom. CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

PROPERTY SECTION 

great properties by price range… FERNDALE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£440,000

UNDER £450,000 A FANTASTIC detached bungalow in the popular Ferndale area of Tunbridge Wells with an integral double garage and a lift to the living accommodation. This spacious property comprises an entrance hall, a sitting/dining room, a kitchen, a utility room, the lift, three bedrooms (one en-suite) and a family bathroom. Externally there is a driveway with double garage and a private rear garden. This property comes with no onward chain. CONTACT Martin & Co 01892 543856 www.martinco.com LUCKS LANE, PADDOCK WOOD

£750,000

UNDER £800,000 A BEAUTIFUL Grade II listed, semidetached Georgian farmhouse in on the rural fringe of town. There is an entrance hall, a sitting room with an impressive fireplace, a dining room, a conservatory, a kitchen/breakfast room, a utility room and a ground floor bedroom/study with en-suite shower. On the first floor are three bedrooms, one with a dressing room, and a family bathroom, and there are two further bedrooms on the top floor. It also has private parking, a garage and a lovely rear garden of 0.5 of an acre. CONTACT Knight Frank Sevenoaks 01732 809390 www.knightfrank.co.uk MOOR HILL, HAWKHURST

£975,000

GREENVIEW CRESCENT HILDENBOROUGH

UNDER £1MILLION

£595,000 UNDER £600,000 A STUNNING detached bungalow much improved by the current owners. Well presented and with generous accommodation, it is set within a charming residential location. The property comprises an entrance hall, a living room open-plan to a kitchen/dining room, a snug, a utility room, a master bedroom with en-suite

and three further bedrooms. There is off-road parking and a large rear garden with patios and a summerhouse. CONTACT Robinson-Jackson 01732 757300 www.robinson-jackson.com

A DELIGHTFUL Grade II listed timber-framed home. The well-presented accommodation includes a reception hall, sitting room, dining room, games room, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, boot room, ground floor bedroom and bathroom, cellar with two storerooms, master suite with dressing room and en-suite, four further bedrooms, a family bathroom and a separate WC. It has off-road parking, a double garage with workshop, a heated outdoor pool and gardens of 0.9 of an acre. CONTACT Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Herstmonceux, East Sussex Grade II listed, Elizabethan country house set against a backdrop of rolling countryside. Resplendent with fine oak beams and inglenook fireplaces. Offering: an entrance hall, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, laundry & ironing rooms, A shower room with a sauna. Principal suite, a further 8 bedrooms set in 1.5 acres with outstanding views. The perfect place for privacy, position and panoramic views.

ÂŁ1,495,000

� PROPERTY SECTION

Hi-tech, extended and fabulous views across the Ashdown Forest… ‘The refurbishment has been carried out with an emphasis on luxury living, with everything at your fingertips’ Wednesday 1st June 2016

L

YING in the desirable Warren area of Crowborough, with an outlook over Ashdown Forest, this substantial detached family home was originally built by Connors in 1958 but has been superbly renovated and extended by the current owners. The refurbishment has been carried out with an emphasis on luxury living, with everything at your fingertips. Notable features include: A Smart House Control 4 system designed to give quick access to fully linked-up music, TV and lighting; electronic gates linked by TV camera to internal intercoms operated from anywhere in the house and ceiling speakers in multiple rooms.

The accommodation is arranged over three floors. The ground floor boasts an entrance hall, cloakroom and bright, triple-aspect drawing room. There is a superb kitchen/breakfast room, with fitted appliances and an adjacent utility/ boot room which is open-plan to a sensational living space currently separated into a dining/ sitting area, playroom and orangery/family room. Off this is a large cinema room, with fully integrated electronics, and stairs up to a gym. The master suite is on the first floor and features a vaulted ceiling, private balcony, dressing area and en-suite bathroom. There are two further bedrooms on this floor, one with a

balcony, as well as a family bathroom and an office/single bedroom. Two more bedrooms, one with an ensuite, can be found on the top floor. The property is well screened from the road and approached through automatic gates, with generous parking space. The low-maintenance, established rear gardens have been beautifully landscaped with terraces, lawns, mature trees, a summerhouse and a large pond with a child-safe covering.

PROPERTY SECTION �

FIR TREES RANNOCH ROAD, CROWBOROUGH

£1,299,000

AT A GLANCE n Refurbished and extended family house n Desirable location n Views over the Ashdown Forest n High spec n Open-plan living n Entrance hall n Drawing room n Cloakroom n Kitchen/breakfast room n Sitting/dining area n Playroom n Family room n Cinema room n Gym n Master bedroom with balcony, dressing area and en-suite n Four further bedrooms, one en-suite n Office/bedroom 6 n Family bathroom n Attractive gardens n Large parking area

£1,299,000 For sale through Hamptons Tunbridge Wells 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

London Road, Tunbridge Wells A fine Grade II Listed Georgian town house overlooking the common Entrance hall, dining room, sitting room, sun room, kitchen, cloakroom. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and balcony, 4 further bedrooms, family bath/ shower room. Cellar. Well-maintained garden. Off-street parking.

Hawkhurst An impressive Grade II Listed family residence within the Cranbrook School Catchment Area Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, music room, drawing room, conservatory, kitchen/ breakfast room, boot room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom suite with 'his and hers' dressing rooms and en-suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Attached 2 bedroom annexe. Triple open bay garage with storage space above. Stables and yard comprising 4 stables, tack room and feed room. Further outbuildings. Mature gardens and grounds. Heated swimming pool. Fenced paddocks and manege. In all about 10.47 acres.

CJ

A

D

...,._

Roedean Road, Tunbridge Wells A well-presented first floor apartment situated within a prestigious gated development The property is very well appointed and enjoys views over the well maintained communal gardens. 2 bedrooms, 1 reception room, 2 bathrooms. Communal gardens. Allocated parking. EPC rating B.

Mark Cross An attractive Victorian family house in 5.86 acres with huge potential Entrance hall, sitting room, study, dining room, conservatory, kitchen / breakfast room, utility room, office, cloakroom. Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Double garage. Pool house. Heated swimming pool. Tennis court. Former stable. EPC rating G. Garden and land extending to approximately 5.86 acres.

Hilden borough For Modernisation - an attractive Georgian semi-detached home Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility room. Master bedroom, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Driveway for several cars. Attractive gardens and grounds. EPC rating E. In all about 0.47 acre.

Hamptons, Nr Plaxtol A spacious and elegant second floor conversion apartment with delightful rural views Communal entrance hall, private entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room. Master bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, bathroom. Communal laundry room. Garage. Communal gardens and grounds in all about 0.67 acre.

PROPERTY SECTION ďż˝

Much improved chalet on rural border of town

O

AKWOOD is an attractive chaletstyle house in a sought-after lane on the rural edge of Tonbridge. The property has been substantially yet sympathetically extended and improved to now present excellent accommodation in a beautiful setting. The front door opens to an entrance hall with plenty of storage and a cloakroom, leading though to a spacious sitting room with two sets of bifold doors to the garden and a rooflight. A large, triple-aspect dining/ family room with vaulted ceiling and central fireplace is open-plan to an airy kitchen

with breakfast bar. Additionally, the ground floor has a bedroom, study and bathroom, adding a great deal of versatility to the accommodation. On the first floor is a master bedroom with balcony, en-suite shower room and eaves access. Two further bedrooms, also with access to the eaves, share the use of a family bathroom. Along with private driveway parking, the house benefits from a garage with a utility room and storeroom. There is also an appealing rear garden with far-reaching countryside views.

AT A GLANCE OAKWOOD HORNS LODGE, TONBRIDGE n Chalet-style period house n Rural setting close to Tonbridge n Extended and improved n Well presented n Entrance hall n Cloakroom n Sitting room n Dining/family room n Kitchen n Study n Ground floor bedroom n Ground floor bathroom n Master bedroom with balcony and en-suite shower room n Two further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Garage with utility room and storeroom n Driveway parking n Attractive rear garden

ÂŁ950,000 For sale through Knight Frank Sevenoaks 01732 809395 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

Converted character stable block overlooking the river

T

HE STABLES is a unique Grade II listed attached property which forms part of the beautifully restored Farningham Mill Estate. Originally the estate’s Georgian stable block, it has been meticulously designed to enhance the period features and individual character, while subtly combining these with a modern and stylish finish. Features include exposed timbers, part-vaulted ceilings and multi-paned windows, as well as natural slate and terracotta briquette flooring to the ground floor, vintage-style column radiators, traditional oak doors, and underfloor heating to the bathrooms.

A spacious entrance lobby includes a utility and a cloakroom, with double glass doors opening to the striking and versatile open-plan reception, currently divided into a sitting area, a study and a dining area. The kitchen is fitted with an attractive range of wall and base units, with granite work surfaces and integral appliances. On the first floor, the master bedroom benefits from a lovely outlook over the river and the convenience of fitted wardrobes. There is also a walk-in wardrobe and a well-appointed en-suite shower room. There are three further bedrooms, one with

another en-suite shower room, while the fourth bedroom is of generous proportions and is currently being used as an additional reception room. A family bathroom completes the accommodation. Farningham Mill Estate is approached via an electrically-operated gate over a shingle driveway which leads through the grounds. The Stables has a garage with a loft above, an allocated parking space and visitor parking. The property enjoys use of the landscaped communal grounds, which extend to about three acres. To the front there is the added bonus of the Darent River and a mill stream.

AT A GLANCE THE STABLES HIGH STREET, FARNINGHAM n Part of the exclusive Farningham Mill Estate n Converted former stable block n High spec n Character features n Stylish design n Views of Darent river and mill stream n Entrance lobby n Utility room n Cloakroom n Impressive open-plan reception divided into sitting area, dining area and study n Kitchen n First floor reception room (or large bedroom) n Master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and en-suite n Guest bedroom with en-suite n Further bedroom n Family bathroom n Garage n Allocated parking space n Visitor parking n Communal gardens of three acres

£895,000 For sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Tunbridge Wells

I

Edenbridge

I

Lewes

I

Associated London Office

Zoopla

EDJllDII! ~

� PROPERTY SECTION

Fabulous former coach house has further planning in place

R

UGGLES FARM is an enchanting family home which retains much of the charm of its period coach house origins, and is set on a large plot in a semi-rural location. The property has been extended and updated over the years to create a comfortable home with a flexible layout well suited to the needs of the modern family. Also offering uninterrupted views and a lovely walled courtyard which is superb for outdoor entertaining, it combines period features with contemporary styling. Entering the house, the spacious reception hall is full character with a beamed ceiling, slate flooring and a horse stall divider forming an attractive balustrade at the bottom of the stairs. The ground floor has a large drawing room with a fireplace and a vaulted ceiling, as well as a stylish kitchen/breakfast room with underfloor heating, an island unit/breakfast bar, integrated appliances and a bespoke walk-in larder. The sitting/dining room is partly open-plan to the kitchen/breakfast room and offers a versatile living space, with no fewer than three sets of

Wednesday 1st June 2016

French doors leading to the garden terrace. Also on the ground floor is a double guest bedroom and a ‘Jack and Jill’ bathroom shared with a further bedroom/study. A cloakroom and a utility room complete the accommodation on this level. Upstairs is a light and spacious master suite offering a spacious bedroom, a walk-in wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom. In the eaves are two further double bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. The gardens and grounds extend to about two and three-quarter acres with areas of lawn to the front and side of the house. A south-facing courtyard, largely enclosed by a high garden wall, lies to the side with a generous decked area for outdoor entertaining. There is a tennis court, a paddock, a parking area and a three-bay garage, as well as a barn with planning permission to convert to ancillary accommodation. Planning permission also exists for a two-storey extension to the main house.

PROPERTY SECTION �

RUGGLES FARM BICYCLE ARMS ROAD, ROTHERFIELD

£1,295,000

AT A GLANCE � Character period property � Stunning setting with views � Stylish interior � Reception hall � Drawing room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Sitting/dining room � Utility room � Cloakroom � Ground floor bedroom � Ground floor bathroom � Study/bedroom 5 � Master suite with bedroom, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite � Two further en-suite bedrooms � Detached triple garage and parking � Brick-built barn with plans to convert � Walled courtyard with deck � Paddock � Tennis court � Gardens and grounds of 2.45 acres � Planning for two-storey extension

£1,295,000 For sale through Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

KENT

ROTHERFIELD,

EAST SUSSEX

Substantial Victorian villa + 6 bedrooms + 7 bathrooms + 3 reception rooms + cinema room + swimming pool + steam room + garage and carport + Council Tax=H + EPC=E

Set within a 9 hole private golf course + 8 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + 4 reception rooms + garage + unique location + lovely gardens + Counci Tax=H + EPC=F

£8,995 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£4,250 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

FRANT,

WAD HURST,

KENT

EAST SUSSEX

Peaceful rural setting + 5 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + 4 reception rooms + kitchen/breakfast room + lovely gardens + triple garage + Council Tax=H + EPC=E

Edwardian country property + 4 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + reception room + kitchen/ breakfast room + communal gardens + double garage + Council Tax=G + EPC=F

£3,750 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£2,250 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/o ccupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check o ut fee - charged at the end of o r early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished / unfurnished. For more details including example inventory fee, visit

{!

J:} J:} {!

**

J:} J:}

{!

*

J:}

{! {!

Moonlight Walk Remember • Celebrate • Donate

www.savills.eo.uk/fees.

GROOMBRIDGE,

HIGH HURSTWOOD,

EAST SUSSEX

EAST SUSSEX

Immaculate family home + 2 reception rooms + kitchen/ living room + 5 bedrooms + second floor bedroom/games room + 3,642 sq ft + about 0.99 acres + EPC=B

2.5 miles Buxted MLS + 3 reception rooms + 4 bedrooms + 527 sq ft detached studio + gardens and field + 2,614 sq ft + about 2.93 acres + house: EPC=D studio: EPC=F

Guide £1.225 million Freehold

Guide £1.15 million Freehold

BIDBOROUGH,

Contact: Liz Devall

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

KENT

Contact: Liz Devall

KENT

Grade II listed cottage with rural views + 2 reception rooms + kitchen/ breakfast room + 4 bedrooms + garden + off-street parking + 1787 sq ft + about 0.27 acres

Ground floor apartment in a central location + sitting room + kitchen/d ining room + 2 double bedrooms + 2 bath/shower rooms + secure underground parking + 94 7 sq ft + EPC=C

Guide £940,000 Freehold

Guide £465,000 Leasehold

* ** * *** {r*{r {r {r{r

Moonlight Walk Remember • Celebrate • Donate

Contact: Becky Card

Contact: Becky Card

TRUSTED TO AC RESULTS FOR 0

Robinson Jackson has over 50 years experience as a leading High Street estate ager and London. Our reputation has been built on our ability to achieve the best results to suit their plans. Whether it's an apartment or family home, contact us today for a advice about the Tonbridge property market.

01732 757300 Available until late, even on Sundays

HIEVE THE BEST UR CLIENTS

SQLDsTc

1t - with 24 branches in Kent for our clients in a timescale free valuation or for general

ROBINSON路JACKilN Our service will move you

24 Branches in Kent & London 119 High Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1DL

� PROPERTY SECTION

The old and the new mix in stylish fashion in desirable Broadwater Down

T

HIS detached former Victorian coach house has been imaginatively converted to an exceptionally high standard, creating a spacious family house in a desirable part of Tunbridge Wells. Throughout, many outstanding features recreate the original period character but at the same time incorporate design elements for modern-day living. The excellent accommodation includes an entrance hall, impressive drawing room with wide bifold doors to the terrace and garden, a sitting room, family room, cloakroom and utility room. The kitchen/dining room also has bifold doors to the garden, while the kitchen itself is beautifully fitted with a long matching island unit and range cooker. On the first floor, the delightful master suite has a dual-aspect bedroom, a beautifully fitted bathroom and two dressing rooms. There are three further bedrooms, two of which have attractive bay windows with plantation shutters, all served by a family bathroom and a shower room. Usefully, a study completes this floor. The house is approached through a five-bar gate and a wide parking and turning area which leads to the integral garage, all well-screened by mature trees and shrubs. The rear garden has a wide terrace with original cobblestones and an area of lawn.

‘Outstanding features recreate the original period character but at the same time incorporate designs for modern-day living’ Wednesday 1st June 2016

AT A GLANCE THE OLD STABLES BROADWATER DOWN, TUNBRIDGE WELLS � Converted Victorian coach house � Period features � Modern design � Desirable location � Entrance hall � Cloakroom � Kitchen/dining room � Utility room � Drawing room � Sitting room � Family room � Master suite with bedroom, bathroom and two dressing rooms � Three further double bedrooms � Study � Family bathroom � Shower room � Integral garage and driveway � Attractive rear gardens

£1,385,000 For sale through Hamptons Tunbridge Wells 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

Be with Belvoir! ' '

Personally, we would never use any other lettings agent to manage our property portfolio and I cannot recommend them highly enough ' ' - Mr F- Tunbridge Wells Landlord

' ' Belvoir have an acute understanding of their clients' needs and requirements and, in my opinion, deliver l 00% ' ' - Mrs L- Tunbridge Wells Landlord

01892 615333

I

www.belvoir.eo.uk/tunbridgewells

I

OOQ

72 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl 2QP

Unique four bedroomed converted church, set on a large plot in the village of Marsh Green. Equestrian potential can be explored with a further I 0.33 acres and stable block also available by separate negotiation. No Onward Chain . EPC - D64

EDENBRIDGE, KENT

ÂŁ400,000 FREEHOLD

A beautiful three bedroom Grade II Listed cottage situated in the heart of Edenbridge Town and very close to Edenbridge Town Mainline Station. Perfect home for someone wanting to downsize , Beautiful garden with large vegetable patch , Secure parking, Walking distance to all the essential amenities including the doctors, opticians and dentist, Opportunity to develop the old bakery subject to planning.

CRANBROOK HOUSE, KENT

f. I 200 pcm fees apply

A beautifully presented three bedroom apartment in a sought after location with easy access to shops, restaurants and pubs. Being only a very short walk from Edenbridge Town mainline line station, this property would certainly suit a professional couple who want fast and easy access to London or a young family wanting accommodation close the town centre, leisure facilities and primary school. EPC - E47

(~ RICS

~ cou

TRY LIFE

u

rightmove.oo.tA< Ttt. UK.. ~tw ont ~ - - ~

Spacious 5 Bedroom Chalet Bungalow in a stunning location with far reaching views of the surrounding countryside . Fantastic rural location, Large gardens to the front and rear of the property, Driveway with parking for several vehicles, Garage, Bright and spacious accommodation throughout. EPC - D56

l SALISBURY HOUSE, KENT

ÂŁ375,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

A delightful conversion apartment on two levels within an imposing Victorian house with private garden and parking space in one of the most favoured villages between Forest Row and Tunbridge Wells. Entrance Porch , First Floor - Library Area , Sitting Room , Dining Room, Kitchen, 2 Bedrooms, Family Bathroom , Allocated Car Parking Space, Shared Private Garden . EPC - D63

WITHYHAM, SUSSEX

f. I 8SOPCM Fees Apply

Beautifully presented three bedroom house situated in a rural location close to Withyham with stunning views of the surrounding countryside . Withyham is set in attractive farmland and countryside, in easy reach of the Ashdown Forest and countryside walks. Within the village are opportunities for many hobbies and activities from Art Groups to badminton societies . EPC - E49.

t6 Primelocation.corn

11 High Street, Edenbridge, KentTN8 SAB

Tunbridge Wells

Andrews >

andrewsonline.co.uk

Western Road, TN1 2JJ £349,950 With entrance lobby, bay fronted living room with double aspect and wood burner, kitchen/diner, downstairs cloakroom. Upstairs there are two double bedrooms both with feature fireplaces. The main bathroom has a bath with shower over and plenty of built in storage. Front garden with side access to a decked rear garden. Energy Efficiency Rating: F

Woodland Road, TN4 9HW £215,000 to £225,000 With its own entrance and set over two floors this maisonette has the feeling much like a house and with the share of the freehold too. The open plan kitchen/living area is bright thanks to three windows, the bedrooms are both a good size, the smaller bedroom has a built in cupboard and the main is on the same level as the bathroom. The hallway is well lit with a Velux window giving more natural light. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Bells Yew Green, TN3 9AF

Post Office Square, TN11BQ £985,000 Luxury garden apartment set in this iconic building which is only a few minutes from Tunbridge Wells train station and the historic Pantiles. With entrance hall, central lobby, spacious living room with fireplace, master bedroom (with dressing room, en-suite shower room and access to a balcony), bedroom 2 with en-suite, bedroom three, shower room and storage cupboard. No Chain! Energy Efficiency Rating: C

£1,900 pcm

This detached property is located in the corner plot of Broomfield development and benefits from being split over 3 floors. Upon entering the property you will notice that the flooring is real oak throughout except the stairs which is carpeted. The spacious living room has a working wood burner with patio doors leading out onto the garden. The kitchen comes with appliances, just of this there is access to a downstairs toilet and a door leading into the double garage. The dining room is towards the top end of the kitchen with a conservatory and patio doors leading out onto the garden. The second floor landing has four of the five bedrooms on, with two benefitting from in built wardrobes and one with an en-suite shower room. The family bathroom is also on this floor. The main bedroom is set over the top floor with plenty of storage and a fully equipped en-suite with a bath and walk in shower. The property has allocated parking for four cars. Energy Efficiency Rating: C

Tunbridge Wells Sales 01892 515 11+'+ Tunbridge Wells Lettings 01892 525 551

To view more properties available from all 85 of our offices, visit andrewsonline.co.uk

Your local independent Estate Agent ... contactable 7 days a week

1-kMJProperty

www.kmjproperty.co.uk a:I

Find us on

111111 Facebook

01892 515188 <i)nTheMarketcom

sales@kmjproperty.co.uk

we open doors for you ...

Q} Primelocatior

Residential

â&#x20AC;˘ t hightmove.co.uk Sales & !Lettings

BarnesKingsnorth

Pembury: 01892 822880

Tonbridge: 01732 771616

Lettings: 01732 771616

e.pembury@bkea.co.uk

e.tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

e. Lettings@bkea.co.uk

www.l,kestatea1ents.com

� PROPERTY SECTION

Georgian grandeur nestled in convenient Loose Valley W

OODLAWN PARK is a superb Georgian country house believed to date from around 1820 and occupying a lovely setting, being surrounded by park-like grounds approaching six acres. The immaculately-presented internal accommodation amounts to over 6,800 sq ft with elegant and beautifully proportioned rooms on two floors, including an indoor swimming pool and gym. Located in the idyllic Loose Valley, it is also well placed for access to mainline stations at Marden, Staplehurst and Maidstone. The striking period features include impressive sash windows – some with working shutters – as well as deep skirtings and high ceilings with decorative mouldings. Having been updated and improved in recent years, it also boasts travertine flooring to the kitchen and breakfast room, with underfloor heating, CAT 5 wiring and a satellite network system. Accommodation on the ground floor comprises an entrance vestibule, reception hall, study, dining room, cloakroom and a stunning drawing room with tripartite windows.

The kitchen, designed by Howard Robinson, is extensively fitted with a range of hand-painted cupboards and integrated appliances. Also on the ground floor is a superb indoor swimming pool with gym and WC. A sweeping elliptical staircase rises to the first floor, where there are a total of four attractive bedrooms which are served by three bath/ shower rooms and a shower/steam room – three being en-suite. The master bedroom enjoys views over the grounds and benefits from an excellent dressing room. Also on the first floor is a 37ft recreation room which can accommodate a full-size snooker table. Woodlawn Park is approached via electronic gates which open to a gravel drive and parking area. The park-like gardens and grounds have been landscaped and feature a delightful formal terrace with curved balustrade, an orchard and a charming part-walled garden incorporating the kitchen garden. There is a brick outbuilding which is utilised as a workshop/potting shed and a polytunnel. Adding to the charm, a pathway meanders through to a wooded area, leading over a bridge and stream.

‘Striking period features include impressive sash windows – some with working shutters – as well as deep skirtings and high ceilings with decorative mouldings’

Wednesday 1st June 2016

PROPERTY SECTION �

WOODLAWN PARK LOOSE VALLEY, NEAR MAIDSTONE

£2,695,000

AT A GLANCE � Grade II listed Georgian country house � Set in the stunning Loose Valley � Park-like grounds � Period features � Immaculate throughout � Cellar and wine stores � Entrance vestibule � Reception hall � Drawing room � Dining room � Study � Kitchen � Breakfast room � Utility room � Indoor swimming pool � Gym � Cloakroom � Master suite with bedroom, bathroom and extensive dressing room � Three further bedrooms, two en-suite � Family bathroom � Large first floor recreation room � Kitchen garden � Orchard � Workshop � Tractor store � Grounds of nearly 6 acres

£2,695,000 For sale through Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

t

Tunbridge Wells Truly stunning semi-detached house, with contemporary living accommodation, situated in the popular Claremont area. Reception room, superb kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom. Magnificent garden, off road parking and garage. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells £499,950 Immaculately presented detached home, in excellent decorative order, situated in the popular St Peter's area. Reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bedrooms (one en suite), family bathroom. Low maintenance garden and parking area. EPC: C.

Tunbridge Wells £379,500 Occupying a convenient and sought-after position within the St John's area, a terraced late Victorian house with well appointed accommodation over 3 floors. 2 reception rooms, kitchen, cloakroom, 2 bedrooms, bathroom. EPC: D

Rusthall £265,000 Newly renovated and spacious upper maisonette overlooking Rusthall Common and within a few hundred yards of the villages' varied amenities. Private front door, bay front reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells Monthly Rental £1,595 A stunning & very spacious 2 bed apartment within a converted mansion house located along the desirable Broadwater Down. Modern kitchen, large living room, 2 double bedrooms, family bathroom, cellar. Garage, garden & parking.Available early July. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells Monthly Rental Of£ I, 150 A newly converted warehouse-style 2 bedroom apartment located in the centre of town. Split level entrance hall, high spec fully integrated kitchen, open plan living room, 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Luxurious fixtures & fittings. Permit parking.Available now. EPC: D

____________ffi.....__________ WOOD & PILCHER

Lamberhurst

£850,000 - £900,000

Tunbridge Wells

£790,000

Situated close to Bayham Abbey is this individual 4 bedroom detached property with large gardens containing a studio. there is PP to extend further. EPC: E

A truly substantial three storey late Victorian town house with versatile accommodation located in an excellent residential area close to three grammar schools and good primary schools. EPC: F

Frant

Tonbridge

£699,950

Offer Over £425,000

The old police house is an especially well presented detached 7 bedroom property across from the green in the permanently popular village of Frant. EPC: D

Bright spacious contemporary home situated in "The Slade". walk to town. station and an outstanding primary school with well-proportioned rooms, bathroom. en-suite. downstairs cloakroom. allocated parking, town garden. EPC: C.

Tunbridge Wells

Sevenoaks

OIRO: £485,000

Situated in the sought after St James area of Tunbridge Wells this 3 bedroom Victorian semi detached home situated towards the end of a no through road with off road parking for 2 vehicles. EPC: E

Three bedroom semi detached with a garage, plenty of parking and lovely gardens set in the ever-popular Bradbourne Lakes area and just under a mile from Sevenoaks station with planning permission to extend. EPC: E

Tunbridge Wells Office I 01892 511211 tunbridgew ells@w oodandpilcher.co.uk Southborough Office I 01892 511311 southborough@woodandpilcher.co.uk Tonbridge I 01732 351135 tonbri dge@w ooda ndpil cher. co. u k

(i)nTheMarketoom

Offer Over £550,000

woodandpilcher.co. uk

r•M

Other offices in Crowborough, Heathfield & associated London Branch

ďż˝ PROPERTY SECTION

Field-fresh living in Hadlow with own pool and paddock

Wednesday 1st June 2016

PROPERTY SECTION �

F

IELD HOUSE is an impressive and stylish modern family home, set within a private gated road on the outskirts of Hadlow. The accommodation is immaculately presented throughout with well-proportioned rooms arranged over two floors. The ground floor has a double-aspect drawing room with a stone fireplace and double doors to the rear terrace, a dining room, a double-aspect family room and a study. The spacious kitchen/breakfast room has a comprehensive range of units, a breakfast bar, fitted appliances and double doors to the terrace. An adjoining utility room and a cloakroom completes this floor. Stairs rise to a galleried landing which has an outlook to the front. The master suite comprises a bedroom with fitted wardrobes, a dressing room and a stylish en-suite bathroom. The guest suite also has a bedroom and dressing area, with a well appointed en-suite shower. There are three further double bedrooms, one of which has an en-suite shower room, and a family bathroom. The house is approached over a driveway which provides parking for a number of cars and leads to a detached garage. The gardens are an attractive feature of the property, with large areas of lawn and wellstocked beds and borders. To one side is a generous raised terrace surrounding a swimming pool, with a summerhouse and plant room. As well as the garden, there is an adjoining paddock, which is fenced, and has separate road access. In all, the plot totals about one and three-quarter acres.

‘The spacious kitchen has a comprehensive range of units, a breakfast bar, fitted appliances and double doors to the terrace’ AT A GLANCE � Attractive modern family house � Outskirts of popular Hadlow � Private gated road � Reception hall � Drawing room � Dining room � Family room � Study � Kitchen/breakfast room � Utility room � Cloakroom � Master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite � Guest bedroom with dressing area and en-suite � Three further bedrooms, one en-suite

FIELD HOUSE GROVE CLOSE, HADLOW

£1,250,000

� Family bathroom � Detached double garage � Swimming pool � Attractive gardens � Paddock � 1.7 acres in all

£1,250,000 For sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Tonbridge 4 Bedroom Detached House - £579,500 FREEHOLD

Tonbridge, 2 bedroom duplex apartment - £250,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

Set in a quiet cul-de-sac and within walking distance of the High Street and mainline station.

Conveniently situated 2 bedroom duplex apartment that is within walking distance of the High Street

Situated on a good size plot, this light and spacious property has an inglenook fireplace, a

and mainline station. This apartment has the benefit of a garage and communal garden.

large master bedroom with en-suite shower room, a landscaped garden, garage and off-street

EPC applied for.

parking for 7-8 cars. EPC D

Tonbridge 5 bedroom Semi Detached House- Guide Price £525,000-£575,000 FREEHOLD

Tonbridge 2 Bedroom Apartment - Offers in Excess of £280,000 LEASEHOLD

Situated in the ever-popular Meadow Lawn area within 10 minutes walk to the mainline station

A well presented second floor apartment that is within walking distance to the mainline station

and High Street, this spacious and versatile house is set over 3 floors and has 5 double bedrooms

and High Street. The accommodation comprises a spacious reception room with large window

and 2 large reception rooms. A well presented and substantial property even has the possibility to

and balcony, a kitchen off the reception room, two double bedrooms, en-suite shower room to

extend (subject to planning approval) to provide a large kitchen family room. EPC E.

master bedroom and a bathroom. Allocated parking and communal garden. EPC B

Tonbridge 2 Bedroom Semi Detached Cottage - £385,000 FREEHOLD

Tonbridge 2 Bedroom Apartment- GUIDE PRICE £250,000-£275,000

Rare opportunity to own a period property within easy walking distance of the High Street

NO ONWARD CHAI NI A well presented top floor apartment located in the popular Slade

and mainline station. This grade II listed cottage has a wealth of period features and has been

area ofTonbridge, within easy walking distance to the mainline station and High Street. The

sympathetically refurbished, retaining exposed beams and stripped wooden floors, a lounge boasts

accommodation comprises open plan kitchen/living area with Juliet balcony, master bedroom

an inglenook fireplace and a kitchen/breakfast room has a vaulted ceiling. EPC G.

with en suite shower room and a further bedroom and bathroom. Allocated parking space. EPC C.

e

l

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

TO PROMOTE YOUR PROPERTY CONTACT RAJ'SY I<ELLY

PKelly@markerstudy.com I 01892 i74781

... USE A

DIFFERENT

IF YOUR PROPERTY REQUIRES:

WE OFFER:

• • • • •

• • • • •

REDECORATION REFURBISHMENT RENOVATION REPLACEMENT REDEVELOPMENT

KIND OF AGENT.

NO FEE - WE CHARGE THE BUYER A LARGE DATABASE OF DEVELOPERS AND INVESTORS PREDOMINATELY CHAIN FREE+ CASH FUNDED BUYERS A HIGHLY BESPOKE SERVICE PROFESSIONAL+ EXPERIENCED STAFF

~

Pentland Homes

/

1

SISSINGHURST VILLAGE - CHURCH MEWS A select development of mews houses and school house conversions. Showhome open to view Saturday and Sunday. Weekday by appointment only. 1 bedroom school house conversions from 3 bedroom mews houses priced from Prices with Help to Buy* start from just

£374,995 £509,995 £299,996

Backed by

HM Government

A Pentland Homes initiative

*Incentives available on selected plots only. Subject to agreement. Tenns and conditions apply.

Church Mews The Street Sissinghurst TN17 2JG For more information or to book a viewing call 07889 810482

Also building at: Folkestone Scholars Village Hawkinge Terlingham Retirement Village

Coming soon to: CANTERBURY NEW ROMNEY

KENT'S

PREMIER

NEW HOME BUILDER

Discover the difference at...

www.pentlandhomes.co.uk

� PROPERTY SECTION

Charming Victorian home to let in Tunbridge Wells town centre YORK ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£2,400

Wednesday 1st June 2016

PER MONTH

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE n Victorian terraced house n Convenient town centre location n Arranged over four floors n Well presented n Entrance hall n Sitting/dining room n Kitchen n Lower ground floor cinema room n Master bedroom with en-suite n Three further bedrooms, one used as study n Family bathroom n Off-road parking for two cars n Courtyard garden n To let unfurnished n Available beginning of July

£2,400 per month To let through Hamptons Lettings 01892 313000 www.hamptons.co.uk

T

HIS well-presented terraced house, set in very heart of Tunbridge Wells, retains fine Victorian features including high skirting boards, tall ceilings, sash windows and decorative plasterwork. The internal layout of the house is well arranged over four floors, while outside there is valuable off-road parking and a courtyard garden. The ground floor has an entrance hall and an elegant sitting room with bay window, shutters and fireplace which is open-plan to a dining room. This leads through to a kitchen with white goods, a range cooker and doors leading out to the enclosed rear courtyard. The cellar has been converted to create a fabulous room with underfloor heating and a storage

cupboard and is currently used as an occasional bedroom or cinema room. On the first floor, the principal bedroom has a large window to the front and a superb en-suite shower room. There are two further bedrooms on this floor, one currently used as an office, and a family bathroom, with a fourth bedroom on the top floor. The house is situated in a pretty and popular one-way street convenient for the station and shops, and with a path to Trinity Theatre and its garden. To the front of the house there is a driveway offering space for two cars, and to the rear is a south-facing courtyard garden which has been decked to create a lovely entertaining space.

‘The cellar has been converted to create a fabulous room and is currently used as an occasional bedroom or cinema room’

Wednesday 1st June 2016

With its peaceful woodland ambience, you'd be forgiven for thinking Knights Wood was miles from anywhere. Not so. With two railway stations nearby and the M25 within easy reach, getting to work on time is a cinch.

Knights Wood offers a variety of exceptional new homes in a woodland setting in Royal Tunbridge Wells. Our marketing suite is open daily from 10am to 5pm, so come and visit us to see for yourself what makes Knights Wood so special. Alternatively, call us on 01892 800580.

Two, three and four bedroom homes available now with prices from ÂŁ350,000. Knights Wood, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3UW Journey times are approximate

. . Knight ~Frank

dandara

new homes

ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL

On the menu at...

66 ď Ž FOOD AND DRINK Espresso Martini

Patatas bravas

Pescado frito mixto

Vacuno en la cherveza

Berengena gratinata

Soprano Royal

Gin cocktail

Paella Soprano

JamĂłn serrano con aceite de oliva y queso

Soprano Tapas & Wine Bar, 56 High St, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1XF | 01892 535 842 | www.sopranowinebar.co.uk

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Extravaganza Evenings! TUESDAY NIGHT BEER & BURGER FOR ONLY £12.00 A Choice Of 5 Different Toppings, All Served With Chips from 5.00pm. Includes A Free Pint Of Beer Or A Free Glass Of Wine.

Come and celebrate the

Queen's Birthday on Saturday 11 th June with live music fiom Sweetheart Swing

WEDNESDAY NIGHT ALL YOU CAN EAT MOULES NIGHT FOR ONLY £14.95 Choose Between A La Creme, Cider & Bacon, Thai Or Provern;al, All Served With Crusty Bread & Fries From 5.00pm

THURSDAY NIGHT ALL YOU CAN EAT SEAFOOD PAELLA FOR ONLY £14.95 Seafood Paella Served With Fresh Bread & Aioli From 5.00pm

Full menu also available on these nights.

AWARD WINNING CASK ALES

•

Introducing Curious Brew from Chapel Down Brewery, along with a large selection of premium Lagers

w.:ww.abergavennY,arms.co. UK

www.sweetheartswing.co. uk

68 ■ FOOD AND DRINK

Get fired up this summer It’s officially National BBQ Week so it’s time to dust off your outdoor grill, sweep up your patio and get ready to dine alfresco. Here are some smokin’ recipes for you to cook and savour in the sizzle of the seasonal sunshine DESPITE our unpredictable weather we Brits love a barbecue. Whether we griddle, smoke, char or roast, there’s something about firing up a feast in the great outdoors that we just can’t seem to resist. According to Brian George, founder of the National BBQ Week campaign, which is now in its 20th year, this particular foodie market has gone from being worth £150million in 1997 to a staggering £1.3billion in 2016, which just goes to prove how popular it has become in the UK.

‘Barbecuing is now an established part of our summer lifestyles’ “Barbecuing is now an established part of our summer lifestyles,” says Brian. “And whether it’s gastro grilling or just throwing a few bangers on, we all love to get out there and go for the grill!” Although many of us still stick to cooking traditional fare like sausages and burgers on our barbecues, there’s plenty more you can do to upgrade your external eating experience. Here are a few delicious ideas to try out with friends and family this summer – just add a splash of sunshine…

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Cool Coriander and Ginger Lamb Chops Serves: 2 What you need: 6 best-end lamb chops (bone in) 50g ginger, grated 1 ripe papaya, peeled and rough chopped 30g bunch of fresh coriander, finely chopped 50ml extra virgin olive oil 2 or 3 hot green chillies, finely chopped and deseeded 100ml thick plain yoghurt 30g unsalted butter

What you do: Mix ginger, papaya, oil and coriander in liquidiser, mix in the chillies and yoghurt. Remove fat/meat from top two inches of chop and flatten out meat, removing any extra fat. Coat the chops with marinade and refrigerate in sealed bag for at least four hours. Sear on high heat, then grill for around ten minutes on medium heat and then a further five minutes on low. Keep turning to prevent burning and baste with melted butter. Season with salt and pepper and leave to rest for a few minutes before serving.

FLAMING TASTY Try exotic seasoning on your lamb

FOOD AND DRINK 

TOP TIPS FOR A BETTER BBQ

Heavenly Honey ’n’ Cream Grill-Glazed Nectarines Serves: 4 What you need: Nectarines halved and stoned x 4 20ml honey – runny 10ml black treacle 5g ground cinnamon 50gl vanilla ice cream 20g clotted cream

WRAP STARS Give strips of beef a Mexican twist

69

Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing food, after touching raw meat and before serving and eating. ■ Always ensure that frozen food is defrosted so that it cooks evenly. ■ Keep raw and cooked meats separate and uncooked meat, fish and vegetables away from each other when preparing. ■ In hot weather, throw away cooked barbecued food left out for more than an hour. ■ Burgers, sausages and chicken should be checked with a meat thermometer or cut open and visually checked. ■ To light charcoal, always use proper BBQ lighter fuel. Never use petrol or other highly inflammable liquids. ■ If using charcoal ensure they are greying in colour and not flame red before you put anything on to cook, otherwise your meat will instantly burn and not cook through. ■ If using gas ensure that the grill lights immediately. ■ If the grill fails to light at second attempt, turn off gas immediately, leave for a few minutes then turn on and retry. ■ Position BBQs on level ground, well away from fences, hedges, trees, any over-hanging foliage or indeed anything that could catch fire! ■ Ensure the charcoal is cold and/or the gas has been securely turned off or disconnected after cooking. Recipes and pictures courtesy of National BBQ Week. For more information on the event, which runs until June 5, visit nationalbbqweek.co.uk or tweet using #NatBBQWeek #GetTheGrillOn

■

What you do: Mix honey and black treacle and brush over cut surface of nectarines. Grill cut-face down on medium grill for five minutes, or until warmed through. Serve with scoop of ice cream and smaller scoop of cream on top.

Brilliant Beef and Guacamole Foodie Fajitas Serves: 2 What you need: 500g rump steak sliced thinly 4 flour tortillas 2 medium avocados, skinned, stoned and finely chopped 2 hot green chillies, deseeded and finely chopped Juice of one lime 2 tsps chopped coriander 50ml crème fraiche 30g grated hard cheese, such as pecorino 2 crushed garlic cloves 1 tsp crushed chilli flakes 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp allspice 20ml Mexican lager 10ml olive oil Handful of shredded lettuce Sea salt and black pepper to taste

What you do: Mix garlic, chilli flakes, cumin, oregano and allspice with beer and oil. Add sliced steak and coat all over, cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. Mix avocado, coriander, green chillies and lime juice, add salt and pepper to taste and refrigerate. Grill marinated steak strips on medium heat, on foil tray – two minutes per side. Toast tortillas on low heat until warm through. Transfer steak to centre of tortilla add layer of guacamole and crème fraiche , sprinkle cheese and shredded lettuce over and wrap, briefly return to grill. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

70  TRAVEL

Blanc’s taste of Paris By Ella Walker

W

HEN I last visited Paris, I was a gangly 16-year-old on a school trip, and what to have for dinner was a source of constant argument. We wanted McDonald’s, our teachers wanted (and got) steak frites. But we did agree on breakfast: Baguettes slathered in butter, delicate pastries and thick, sweet hot chocolate. So it’s both nostalgic and comforting when Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc orders rich, dark hot chocolate as we sit down for breakfast at his favourite Parisian hotel, Le Bristol. He even lets a spoonful of chocolate pour back into his cup to show me how silky smooth it is, and later I spy him put away no fewer than five bread rolls. “It is a weakness, for us all – non?” he says with a grin. This is what Oxford-based Blanc does when he’s in Paris – he eats, and he eats well. So, when the Paris terror attacks devastated the city last November, his first instinct was to come here and eat. “The day after, I cancelled everything. I went for

two days to eat in Paris. I was so, so angry, and I wanted to show that I love Paris. I wanted to show support to my friends,” he remembers with passion. “The response from the people was so powerful, so unified. “But the city was shaken, the level of aggression was so hard. But the French are tough, remember.” he says with a shake of his head and a wry smile. “You try and touch institutions such as freedom and democracy – oh no, the French are at the forefront – you don’t touch it, so be warned!” Seven months later, he says the capital ‘is already taking back confidence’, and you can feel a sense of positivity building. I am here to discover the Paris Blanc – who is culinary director of Eurostar – adores, exploring his favourite districts, food spots and museums. The city is beginning to unfurl, as it always does in springtime, but this year, in the wake of such atrocities, perhaps even more so than usual. The horse chestnut trees lining the ChampsElysées are frothy with pea-green leaves, and Le Marché des Enfants Rouges, the city’s oldest covered food market where we spend a lazy Saturday lunchtime, heaves with spears of plump asparagus, knobbly pods of broad

CORNERING THE MARKET Fresh produce at Le Marché des Enfants Rouges

FEELING PENSIVE Rodin’s The Thinker

Wednesday 1st June 2016

STREET LIFE The Champs-Elysées in Paris beans, shards of pink rhubarb and artichoke bulbs – their deep purple colouring peeking through spiky leaves. They are the vegetables that crop up in almost every meal I eat during my three-day stay; white asparagus becomes a velvety soup at three Michelin-starred restaurant Pierre Gagnaire; roasted artichoke and pink garlic crisps are headily beautiful at Le Bristol’s Epicure restaurant; and at Le Chiberta, run by chef Guy Savoy, poached swirls of rhubarb top delicate raspberry jellies. For Blanc, the markets – particularly Le Marché des Enfants Rouges in the historic Marais district where he loves to ‘lose’ himself, and the nearby open-air President Wilson market – are all-consuming. Author Emile Zola, he

says, captures them best: “You can hear the wheels on the cobbles, and then he describes the food – oh my gosh!” It’s hard not to touch everything, but I just about manage to drag myself away from wedges of mushroom quiche and bouquets of late tulips to wander Le Marais’ narrow alleys. The sills of almost every balcony flutter with red and pink geraniums, and pavements are fringed with cafés where people taking a break from food shopping along Rue de Bretagne sit and sip coffee. While sampling chunks of mellow comté, Blanc’s old friend, celebrated cheesemonger Laurent Dubois, tells me it’s typical in Parisian culture for streets to have a fromagerie, fishmonger, butcher, grocer, boulangerie and florist, all squashed together, side-by-side. In one fell swoop you can pick up everything you need without setting foot in a plastic, claustrophobic supermarket – although those are handy

TRAVEL 

when nothing will do except bags of chewy Carambars. The French know how to do their candy. Blanc’s protégé, patissier and chocolatier Laurent Duchêne is an expert, feeding us eclairs with strawberries and basil-scented cream, and fudgy macarons as bright and colourful as buttons. There would have been fig tarts – Blanc’s favourite – had the fruit been in season. Duchêne sells 600-700 pastries and 800 baguettes a day to the people living in the streets around his bakery, and he seems to know every customer by name. Of course, Paris is not just a place to graze, although it is perfectly possible to explore the city by simply following the smell of baking bread. On a grey Sunday afternoon, I give my stomach a rest and walk to the Musée

Rodin (“Ohh la laa,” sighs Blanc at its beauty) in the 7th Arrondissement, disentangling myself from the giddy tourists and selfie-stick sellers milling at the base of the Eiffel Tower, and passing the gold-crested Hôtel des Invalides along the way. Following renovations, the museum reopened in November at the height of France’s security fears, and the garden, dotted with Auguste Rodin’s muscular bronze sculptures, is a calm refuge after Gustave Eiffel’s overcrowded wrought iron showstopper. Blanc was born near Besançon, at the foot of the ragged Jura Mountains, and spent his childhood tickling trout and gathering honeycombed morels. Like me, he didn’t visit Paris until he was 16. “Paris was the end of the world, almost,” he says, remembering how

utterly dazzled he was the first time he came here. “What I love the most is the Basilique of the Sacré Coeur on the top of Montmartre,” he adds, describing his favourite view of the city. “You look at Paris at your feet. It’s this extraordinary expanse of life. That’s the place you must go and discover at two o’clock in the morning, when Paris is waking up!” Recalling his words, I set out early on our final morning, meandering along the banks of the Seine and the wide, open boulevards leading to Place de la Concorde, its big wheel glinting in the sharp, lemony sunlight. It’s not quite the smooth white steps of the Sacré Coeur, and it is not 2am, but drunk on hot chocolate I reel at the city around me. Defiant and unafraid, Paris is wide awake and ready for business.

71

TRAVEL FACTS Ella Walker was a guest of Eurostar (www.eurostar.com; 03432 186 186) which operates up to 21 daily services from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord with one-way fares starting from £29 (based on a return journey). Business Premier Eurostar customers can enjoy fully flexible tickets, tenminute express check-in, exclusive lounge access, along with menus designed by Business Premier culinary director Raymond Blanc served at their seat. Fares start from £245 one-way, based on a return journey. Doubles at Le Bristol start from 950 Euros per night, room only. (www.lebristolparis.com)

PARIS MATCH The city’s most famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower

Wednesday 1st June 2016

72 � LIFE AND STYLE CATCHPOLE AND RYE LTD OFFICIAL OPENING 1ST JUNE 2016 – NEW TUNBRIDGE WELLS SHOWROOM Catchpole & Rye Limited is pleased to announce the opening of its new showroom in Tunbridge Wells, with the newly elected Town Mayor officially opening the doors on Wednesday 1st June. Headed up by Founder and Managing Director, Tony O’Donnell and his expert team of bathroom consultants, the new showroom represents yet another milestone in the companies continued expansion. With a large Flagship showroom in London and another in Pluckley Kent, the 3,500 square foot showroom is set over two floors and showcases their exclusive collections of luxury freestanding baths as well as their full range of ceramic and marble washbasins, bathroom taps, thermostatic showers and bespoke cisterns. As well as beautiful bathroom collections, Catchpole & Rye offer a full bathroom design service, as well as site visits to ensure perfect product placement. They also offer the personalisation of any artwork on all of their cast-iron baths and cisterns, allowing customers the opportunity of a completely bespoke design service. With a long standing reputation for British manufacturing, exceptional quality and personal service, Catchpole and Rye Limited expects its third and largest showroom to date, to provide a valuable service to their existing clients, as well as the opportunity for new specifiers and residential customers to view their offerings first hand. Catchpole and Rye Ltd, 70 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN1 2UJ. Tel 01892 526996 www.catchpoleandrye.com Head Office: Saracens Dairy, Pluckley Road, Pluckley, Kent. TN27 0SA. Tel: 01233 840840

SWEETWOODS PARK CELEBRATES 22 YEARS WITH ANNIVERSARY CUP Who doesn’t love a good party? Even better when the party is hosted in The Wealden Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty… Sweetwoods Park Golf Club celebrated their 22nd birthday in style on Monday 30th May, with a fun filled day of golf, food, live music and entertainment for the kids. In fact, it’s a celebration that the club insists on having every year, exclusively for their members to enjoy with their families. The big day now follows a traditional format with a Members Team Stableford Waltz, prizes for the longest drive and nearest the pin, followed by complimentary food for all members and live music from the Snow band. General Manager of Sweetwoods Park, Andrew Salter, said “It is always a pleasure to organise and host the Anniversary Cup as a celebration of Sweetwoods Park. We value our members hugely, many who have been part of the club for numerous years, and it’s great to have them as part of our celebrations. We look forward to many more to come!” The weather held out for the event and over 120 members enjoyed this complimentary event as a celebration of 22 years of being a much-loved golf club. If you’d like to join them for their 23rd birthday celebration next year, why not consider membership, which are still available for 2016/2017 and details can be found at sweetwoodspark.com. Alternatively call Vicky Fearn, Membership Administrator at Sweetwoods Park on 01342 850729 Ext 2. As well as looking after their members; visitors are also warmly welcomed at Sweetwoods Park. Pay a visit and take advantage of the summer golfing offer - 2 for £55 during the week and 2 for £65 at the weekends with promo code ‘SUMMER’. To get in touch visit www.sweetwoodspark.com, email golf@sweetwoodspark.com or call 01342 850729.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

THE WARREN The best of local, brought from farm to table ‘The Warren’ restaurant can be found in the heart of Tunbridge Wells at the iconic site formerly occupied by ‘Signor Franco’. Here Kentish and Sussex produce, taken from the farm to the table, can be enjoyed in rooms with unique décor and where the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. The restaurant was opened on 20th March 2016 after a complete refurbishment. The Warren Estate, from which the restaurant has taken its name, is situated on the edge of the Ashdown Forest. Our owners Martin and Chris have chosen traditional British breeds of livestock which are raised specifically for the restaurant allowing our Head Chef Jonnie Forbes and his team to work with our produce in order to maximise its potential. The menu is ever evolving; produce is prepared with classic techniques; style does not take preference over substance. Our dedicated front of house staff, led by Restaurant Manager Magdalena, have carefully selected a range of beverages to suit all palates and the cocktail menu has been created by our mixologist and sommelier Olivier who also looks after the Havana cigars. In fine weather you can enjoy our terrace overlooking the historic High Street; in cold weather the fire pit helps to keep you warm. We also have a resident pianist Caroline James playing music in a variety of styles on our baby grand piano on Friday and Saturday evenings. We are serving lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday and traditional roast on Sundays. Please come along and enjoy our hospitality. The Warren Restaurant 5A High St, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UL 01892 328191 | contact@warren.restaurant

GET HANDS ON WITH HISTORY AT PENSHURST PLACE Farming Through the Years – There & Back Again Visitors to Penshurst Place and Gardens will have the opportunity to travel back in time with Hands on History over the weekend of 4th and 5th June, providing a captivating day out for all ages. Hourly interactive talks and demonstrations will cover farming through the ages and the natural history of the Weald. Younger visitors will have the chance to mill their own flour, see skins and skulls of native Wealden animals, and hold farming tools or a hunting bow from years gone by. Two educational and entertaining sessions will be alternating hourly throughout the weekend, with the experts from Hands on History bringing the past to life through presentations and activities. One session will focus on how the Penshurst estate would have been farmed throughout history, providing food and other naturally growing resources. The other will take visitors back to a time when the 2,500 acre estate was part of a dense forest, populated by native Wealden animals including deer and boar – both of which are still living around Penshurst Place today. Other activities at Penshurst Place over the coming few weeks include an opportunity for children to learn about native animals and how to attract them into our gardens on the British Mammals Spring Trail from 28th May until 5th June. Glorious Gardens runs from 5th to 12th June, a week-long celebration of the grade I listed grounds with adult crafts, photography workshop, guided garden tours, folk music and Morris dancing. On 19th June Hands on History return for Father’s Day to give families the opportunity to challenge Dad in a mini crossbow tournament and get dressed up in hunting apparel of bygone years, ready for a keepsake photo to take home. To find out more, visit www.penshurstplace.com

WITH THE

THE TOWN’S TOP MOTORING GUIDE – FROM EVERYDAY DRIVES TO LUXURY SUPERCARS

FIRST DRIVE

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

VOLVO XC90 T8 MOMENTUM

‘A plug-in hybrid that has the potential to deliver some impressive performance and economy figures’ navigation on the large nine-inch touchscreen, powered leather seats, aluminium trim, 19-inch alloy wheels and a power tailgate to name just a few of the features.

WHO WOULD BUY ONE? If you have almost any combination of kids and adults, the XC90 T8 can cope with it, making it a superb family vehicle. On the other hand, if you have to commute into a city, having that saved electric mode is a handy bonus, especially as you can relax in the sumptuous cabin while you do it. It’s a luxury car for sure, but one that justifies the expense.

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD: Capable.

By Matt Joy WHAT’S NEW? VOLVO’S XC90 has been around for a little over a year, but in that time it has already secured a stack of awards and is proving hugely popular with buyers, too. It mixes sensible design with attractive looks and is even more spacious and practical than the old car. Now the crowning glory of the XC90 range has arrived in the shape of the T8 model. Combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine that is both turbo-charged and supercharged, with an electric motor and battery pack, makes the T8 a plug-in hybrid, and one that has the potential to deliver some impressive performance and economy figures.

LOOKS AND IMAGE

BEHIND THE WHEEL

Only the keenest of eyes will be able to distinguish the T8 from its conventional siblings. Chiefly, it is the discreet badges front and rear that are the most obvious changes, but also the additional filler flap on the front wing which gives access to the charging connections. This car then doesn’t make a fuss about its capabilities; it is as discreetly handsome as all the other XC90s you can buy. That’s no doubt part of the reason why it holds so much kerb appeal. Where much of the competition has decided that bold or even brash is the way to design a large SUV, the more subtle Volvo approach is welcome.

Once installed in that attractive cabin, there is little to tell you that the XC90 T8 has a significantly different powertrain. It has four modes to marshal what’s available; hybrid, where the car sorts out the best use of energy for itself, pure, which uses electric only, power mode, where both petrol engine and electric motor work at the same time to give four-wheel-drive, and finally save mode, where the battery’s charge is maintained until you choose to use it. In hybrid mode, the petrol engine is dormant at low speeds and while the battery is charged, but should you prod the accelerator hard enough it chimes in seamlessly. As with a regular hybrid you can add charge back into the battery by careful use of the brakes, helping it to reach the claimed electric-only range of 27 miles. On the flip side, in power mode the T8 is something of subtle rocket ship. There’s 401bhp available with both engine and motor combined, enough to propel it to 62mph from rest in only 5.6 seconds. Using it this way means higher fuel consumption of course, but the official NEDC combined figure of 134.5mpg and 49g/km of CO2 means it qualifies for the government grant.

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY It’s not just a pretty face, however, as the XC90 is even more of a family wagon than before. Up front there’s acres of space, even with the wide transmission tunnel, the second row is comfortable and spacious, while the third row is one of the more useful in the class and is also easy to access. The boot is useful in seven-seat mode and huge in fiveseat configuration, and plumping for the air suspension means you can raise and lower the rear end for easier loading.

VALUE FOR MONEY There’s no doubt the T8 is a relatively expensive car – £60,455 in Momentum guise as tested here – but if it suits the way you need to use your car, it also has the potential to be very cheap to run. The specification is also quite lavish; satellite

IF THIS CAR WAS A... a stereo, it would be tasteful, capable of incredible sounds, but also smart enough to cut your electricity bills at the same time.

FACTS AT A GLANCE PRICE: £60,455 ENGINE: 2.0-litre petrol unit and electric motor producing 401bhp and 472lb.ft of torque TRANSMISSION: Eight-speed automatic

PERFORMANCE: Top speed 140mph, 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds ECONOMY: 134.5mpg combined EMISSIONS: 49g/km of CO2

Wednesday 1st June 2016

74 n MOTORING

EXCEPTIONAL OFFERS ON SERIOUS FUN 0% APR* REPRESENTATIVE

lt4azDa3 36 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF £119 PER MONTH

36 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF £189 PER MONTH

WITH A £500, MAZDA DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION CUSTOMER DEPOSIT £3,474.62 OPTIONAL FINAL PAYMENT £4,596.38

WITH A £750, MAZDA DEPOSIT CONTR IBUTION CUSTOMER DEPOSIT £4,085.00 OPTIONAL FINAL PAYMENT £6,426.00

INVICTA MAZDA TUNBRIDGE WELLS Tunbrid ge Wells Business Park, Dowding Way, Tunbri dge Wells, Kent TN 2 3DS 01892 597726 www.invicta-mazda.co.uk

ZOOll7-ZOOll7

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg ( 1/lOOkm) for the Mazda Range: Urban 30.4 (9.3) - 74.3 (3.8). Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) - 88.3 (3.2). Combined 40.9 (6.9) - 83.1 (3.4). C02 emissions (g/km) 161 - 89. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving resul t s. Retail sales only, subject to availability for vehicles registered between 01.04.16 and 30.06.16 at participating dealers. T&C apply. ' 0% APR Mazda Personal Contract Purchase available on all Mazda2 and Mazda3 models. ,£500 Mazda2 petrol models and El,250 Mazda2 diesel models. £750 Mazda3 hatchback models and El,000 Mazda3 fastback models. Excludes Sport Black. At the end of the agreement there are 3 options: (i) Part exchange the vehicle. (ii) Pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) Return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Based on 9,000 miles per annum; excess mileage charge of 14.9p per mile applies. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Mazda Financial Services RHl lSR. Models shown: Mazda2 75ps SE, OTR from £12,195. Mazda3 120ps SE, OTR from £17,395. Models shown feature optional Soul Red Metallic paint (Mazda2 £660 and Mazda3 £670). OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months' road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years' European Roadside Assistance. Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to print. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Cambria automobiles pie, trading as lnvicta Mazda is a credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

INTRODUCING THE NEW FORD EDGE Sitting at the pinnacle of our SUV range, the New Ford Edge is the epitome of modern refinement.

FORD EDGE AWD SDR 2.0 180PS DIESEL

- £199* PER MONTH

- £500 DEPOSIT ALLOWANCE

Lifesty/~ord Your journey storts here

V

www.titestytetord.co.uk

Tunbridge Wells 01892 739131

Tonbridge 01732 758 726

KentTN48AG

Kent TN9 lTN

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (11100km) for the Ford Edge range: urban 43.5 (6.5) - 44.l (6.4), extra urban 51.4 (5.5) - 52.3 (5.4), combined 47.9 (5.9) - 48.7 (5.8). Official CO, emissions 152-149g/km. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Based on limited stock vehicles only and must be ordered and registered between 01.04.16 and 30.06.16. *Finance example shown available over a finance period of 25 months with £7,692.15 customer deposit, £500 deposit allowance, £8,192.15 total deposit. Amount of credit £21,802.85. Charge for credit £321.15. Finance Facility fee £10. Purchase Fee £10. Total amount payable £30,336.15. Optional final payment £17,348. O.SO/o APR, 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charged at Bp per mile. When financed with Ford Credit. Finance subject to status. Other charges for metallic paint and extra factory options. Must be over 18 and a full UK resident. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. Freepost Ford Credit. Prices correct at time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability at Lifestyle Ford. Lifestyle Ford reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time and without notice. Lifestyle Ford Head Office 3 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 SAG. Images for Illustration purposes only, metallic paint available at an extra cost.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

MOTORING n

75

21 MAY-30 JUNE

r

mm:::~.~-~·:::.:::::.:'1~

ZERO PAY

DRIVE anr ,.,.....AWAY ···;·:~ £0 DEPOSIT* £0 FOR3 MTHS FIAT DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION £750*

FIAT DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION £1,000*

THE FIAT SALES EVENT. ANY CAR IN THE RANGE. ANY NEW CAR IN THE DEALERSHIP. ANY QUESTIONS?

FIAT DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION £1,000*

THAMES MOTOR GROUP TUNBRIDGE WELLS, LONGFIELD ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 3EY. TEL: 01892 549766 WWW.THAMESMOTORGROUP.CO.UK

5.9°/o APR

REPRESENTATIVE

Fuel consumption figures for new Fiat Range in mpg Of100km): Urban 29.7 (9.5) - 68.9 (4.1); Extra Urban 46.3 (6.1) - 97.4 (2.9); Combined 38.2 (7.4) - 83.1 (3.4). C02 emissions 171 - 88 g/km. Fuel con sumption and co, figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Promotion available on new Fiat models registered from 21 st May to 30th June 2016. · £750 deposit contribution on New Fiat 500 Series 4 models, £1 ,000 deposit contribution on Fiat 500L models and £1000 deposit contribution on Fiat 500X MY16 models. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. Retail customers only. With Fiat i-Deal you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage and being in good condition. Deposit Contribution is only available in conjunction with 'Fiat i-Deal No Pay Drive Away'. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. At participating Dealers only. Fiat Financial Services, PO BOX 4465 , Slough, SL1 ORW. All vehicle images are for illustration purposes only and may include options or body paint colours, which incur an additional cost. We work with a number of creditors including Fiat Financial Services.

Model shown Jeep Renegade 2.0 MULTIJET 140hp Longitude 4WD at £24.495 including Special Pastel Paint at £600. OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JEEP RENEGADE RANGE MPG [L/lOOKM] : EXTRA URBAN 47.9 [5.9] 70.6 [4.0]. URBAN 32.5 [8.7]-55.4 [5.1]. COMBINED 40.9 [6.9]-64.2 [4.4]. C01 EMISSIONS: 160-115 G/KM.FuelconsumptionandCO , figures areobtainedforcomparativepurposes inaccordancewithECdirectives/regulations andmaynotberepresentativeofreal-lifedrivingconditions ' Customer deposit is £4,455. Jeep Deposit is £1.500. Total Deposit £5.955. Optional Final Payment is £11.573 . Contract Term is 14 months. Promotion available on Jeep Renegade 1.0MultiJet 140hp Longitude 4WO at £14,495 including Special Pastel Paint registered between 4th May and 30th June 1016. Selected stock only. Participating dealers only. Jeep Deposit Contribution only available in conjunction with Jeep Horizon PCP. With Jeep Horizon you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment. subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage [a charge of 9p per mile for exceeding 10.000 miles per annum in this example] and being in good condition. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. We work with a number of creditors including Jeep Financial Services. Jeep Financial Services. PO Box 4465. Slough. Sll ORW. Jeep ®is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

76  ADVERTORIAL

A hybrid black to make you The BMW i8 is a work of art - a sports supercar that builds from silence to a turbo-charged growl

‘First impression is of a pure stunning beauty in terms of the flowing aerodynamic lines that would seem to cheat the wind out of any form of resistance to its inevitable forward progress’

Wednesday 1st June 2016

ADVERTORIAL 

beast purr…

By David Thacke BMW can be relied upon to be innovative when it comes to the design and manufacture of new products, but on paper this brief must have looked very daunting indeed. A hybrid eco-friendly sports car with a near quarter ton battery pack and potential for 130+ mpg would require extreme lateral thinking. So when the opportunity arose to experience the finished article I was more than a little interested in how well this all came together. First impression is of a pure stunning beauty in terms of the flowing aerodynamic lines that would seem to cheat the wind out of any form of resistance to its inevitable forward progress; a mythical black beast sitting on its rear haunches ready to pounce, the Transformeresque dihedral doors taking door opening to a new level (literally) completing the image. The quality interior is roomy and thoughtful ergonomics are apparent. Once you’ve slid down into the seat, it fits to your body like pulling on socks. With smaller seats in the rear, it is in practical terms a two seater. The briefing on all the equipment seems totally overwhelming and to be honest, a little frightening. hat if I turn that knob that way and press this button, might I find myself fired up through the roof and stuck on the showroom ceiling? With the door closed and ready to go it all becomes very intuitive - press that button, move a lever and like any other automatic car you’re off, only in stealth mode! No vibration, no noise, only the most relaxing sensation of progress; you really do feel like you’re wearing it, not sitting in it. Driving through town silently in the i8 is about as stress free as it comes in this day

77

and age. Press the throttle a little more and imperceptibly the petrol engine comes to life like a well-trained functionary just taking care of business. Comfort mode is relaxing, smooth, almost silent with just the occasional chirp from the three-cylinder petrol engine to give assurance it’s still on duty. Looking around at the hand-stitched leather interior you get a sense of well being. Then upon reaching the motorway and moving the gear lever to sports mode, all the instrumentation turns from relaxing pale blue to dark red and those rear haunches are ready to bound you forward. The engine barks out a synthetic growl. A turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine teams with two electric motors for a combined 362 hp and will deliver 0-62 in just 4.4 seconds, and with a restricted top speed of 155mph, it’s now a 911 beater, a Ferrari chaser. With precise handling it feels a lot lighter than its one and half tons might suggest and explains its arrowstraight stability at speed. The chassis is truly superb with 50/50 weight distribution, low centre of gravity and no chassis flex, giving an abundance of mechanical grip, making the most of its weight for true downforce. On deceleration the kinetic energy is harvesting power to the batteries ready to meter out for extra power when needed, instead of producing wasted heat in the braking system through friction. The seamless synergy is truly breathtaking. The BMW i8 is justly in the supercar division using Formula One technology, the pinnacle of engineering, to produce a stunning automotive work of art. The i8 would compare favourably with a 911 Porsche on most levels, but with a saving at the thick end of £46,000 and certainly more exclusive, it has to be on your shopping list.

FACTS AT A GLANCE PRICE: On the road price (including Plug in Car Grant) £99540.00 SYSTEM OUTPUT in kW (hp) 266 (362) ELECTRIC MOTOR: Output in kW 96 ELECTRIC MOTOR: Max. torque in Nm 250 INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE: Cylinders/valves 3/4 INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE: Capacity in ccm 1,499 INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE: max. output in kW (hp) at 1/min 170 (231)/5,800 COMBINED CO, EMISSIONS: 49/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 134.5 mpg TOP SPEED: 155 mph

ALL GEARED UP An east switch from stealth to sports mode

Wednesday 1st June 2016

MASERATI GHIBLI DIESEL. FROM £399 A MONTH +VAT.* You kno w you ha ve always wanted to own a Maserati. Now there is absolutely nothing to hold you back. The Ghibli Diesel is every inch a Maserati, featuring a gorgeous, coupe-like silhouette, luxury leather interior and with its economical yet potent diesel engine, 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, there are also plent y of rational reasons to justify your decision.

MASE RAT I

MOTORLINE MASERATI MAIDSTONE BIR CHOLT ROAD, MAID STONE, ME15 9XY Phone : 0162 2 616 LQL,

I

Web : www. motorline .eo .uk / ma s erati

www. ma s erati .co .uk

Offi cial fuel cons umpti on fi gur es for t he Mase rati Gh ibl i Di esel in mpg llitres/100 km] : Urban 36 .7 17.71, Extr a Urban 57.6 li.j .9], Comb ined l.j7_9 15.91. C0 2 em iss ions on comb ined cycle : 158 g/km . Fuel consumption and CO, figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. *BUSINESS USERS ONLY. Model shown is Maserati Ghibli Diesel MY16 V6d ljdr Auto. Contract Hire payment profile of £/j,788 +VAT in advance, followed by 35 monthly rentals of £399 +VAT. Rentals shown above exclude maintenance and are based on 8,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charge apply. Finance subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required, we work with a number creditors including Maserati Financial Services. Vehicles must be registered with FCA Fleet Services UK Ltd by 30th June 2016. PO Box lj590, Slough, Berkshire SU OWU.

PUZZLES 

DOUBLE CROSSWORD

WORD SPIRAL Starting from 1, fill in the grid clockwise with four-letter words. The last letter of each word becomes the first letter of the next to reveal the key word in the shaded boxes.

22. National team not seen in town (11)

hundred belonging to us all round (6) 16. Give succour to a ship before it’s broken up (6) 18. Puts one’s name down to be engaged (5,2) 19. Vessel looking the same both ways (5) 20. Nigeria to begin a new arrangement (9) 21 & 9Ac. The fellow needs a long time to run the firm (6)

Down 2. It’s the custom among industrious employees (3) 3. I’m kept inside illuminated boundary (5) 4. What metal-workers do in a fit of rage (6) 5. Incursions in Greek island, we hear (7) 6. Well-bred state, yet tiling is badly broken up (9) 7. Model exhibition (7,4) 8. Father in establishing a claim is most careful (11) 12. Cognition affected by disguised identity (9) 15. U.S.S.R. in a suitably descriptive rearrangement (7) 17. Not just taking the top off the amusement park (6) QUICK CLUES: 19. Parts of vessels having Across elegant lines when reversed (5) 1. Upkeep (11) 21. Mother, being upset, 9. Newt (3) becomes deranged (3) 10. Shyness (9) Scribble pad 11. Chosen (5) 13. Gourmet (7) 14. Rural (6) 16. Dread (6) 18. Stress (7) 19. Deserve (5) 20. Exercise (9) 21. Pale (3) 22. Self-possessed (5-6)

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 3

4

14

15

16

17

A

3 10

14

15

8

11

4

16 13

12

7

Down 2. Perform (3) 3. Courage (5) 4. Regard (6) 5. Attribute (7) 6. Victor (9) 7. Festivity (11) 8. Entering (11) 12. Deceitful (9) 15. Copy (7) 17. Embellish (6) 19. Madness (5) 21. Sorrow (3)

6

5

1. Snake’s sound 9. Therefore 2. Smoke and fog 10. Celebrity 3. Network 11. Surprise attack 4. Grime 12. Podium 5. Cash register 13. Went quickly 6. Remaining 14. Sketch 7. Sepulchre 15. Magician’s rod 8. Defeat 16. Mend with stitches Keyword clue: A boy’s name

SUDOKU

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

R

1. Which new sportsbased ITV1 entertainment show is hosted by Holly Willoughby and has Frank Lampard and Bradley Walsh as team captains? 2. Which Downton Abbey actor shared his appreciation for the King of Skiffle in the recent ITV1 documentary Lonnie Donegan and Me? 3. What was the title of Kevin Simm’s first single after winning The Voice UK 2016? 4. Which actor plays salesman Alan Clay, who seeks to build a complex in the Saudi desert in the new film A Hologram for the King? 5. Which actress played Nellie Pledge in the 1960s and 70s TV sitcom Nearest and Dearest? 6. What is the title of the new album from recently re-formed girl group All Saints? 7. Which actor played android Andrew Martin, the titular character in the 1999 film Bicentennial Man?

8. Which new US drama on Fox stars James Franco as a time-travelling English teacher, and is based on the Stephen King novel of the same name? 9. Which alternative rock group’s hits of the 1980s included The Killing Moon and The Cutter?

SOLUTIONS

10. What is the title of the latest film in the X-Men franchise, whose stars include Jennifer Lawrence and Sophie Turner? 11. Which comedian is being celebrated in a new six-part Comedy Shuffle on BBC1? 12. Late Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb had a Number 2 solo hit with which single in July 1969? 13. Which actor plays Christian, who returns home to find a long-buried family secret in new film The Daughter? 14. Which new BBC1 sitcom stars Ben Miller as Murray, whose wife decides to leave him on her 40th birthday? 15. Which US singer had his only UK Number One hit with Spirit in the Sky in April 1970?

14 Draw; 15 Wand; 16 Darn. Keyword: BERNARD CODEWORD: 1=F, 2=J, 3=O, 4=N, 5=T, 6=W, 7=K, 8=S, 9=Z, 10=Y, 11=C, 12=L, 13=E, 14=V, 15=B, 16=P, 17=A, 18=G, 19=D, 20=X, 21=I, 22=Q, 23=R, 24=U, 25=M, 26=H ENTERTAINMENT QUIZ: 1 Play to the Whistle; 2 Jim Carter; 3 All You Good Friends; 4 Tom Hanks; 5 Hylda Baker; 6 Red Flag; 7 Robin Williams; 8 11.22.63; 9 Echo and the Bunnymen; 10 X-Men: Apocalypse; 11 Peter Kay; 12 Saved By the Bell; 13 Paul Schneider; 14 I Want My Wife Back; 15 Norman Greenbaum SUDOKU:

Codeword is the crossword puzzle with no clues. The number in each square corresponds to a letter. Work out the words in the grid using the letters provided. Fill in these known letters first, then use skill and judgement to work out the others.

2

2 9

ENTERTAINMENT QUIZ

CODEWORD

1

1

DOUBLE CROSSWORD: Cryptic: Across: 1 Pull strings; 9 Age; 10 Memoranda; 11 Hoist; 13 Elation; 14 Occurs; 16 Assist; 18 Signs on; 19 Kayak; 20 Originate; 21 Man; 22 Countryside. Down: 2 Use; 3 Limit; 4 Temper; 5 Inroads; 6 Gentility; 7 Fashion show; 8 Painstaking; 12 Incognito; 15 Russian; 17 Unfair; 19 Keels; 21 Mad. Quick: Across: 1 Maintenance; 9 Eft; 10 Reticence; 11 Elite; 13 Epicure; 14 Rustic; 16 Terror; 18 Tension; 19 Merit; 20 Operation; 21 Wan; 22 Level-headed. Down: 2 Act; 3 Nerve; 4 Esteem; 5 Ascribe; 6 Conqueror; 7 Celebration; 8 Penetrating; 12 Insincere; 15 Imitate; 17 Enrich; 19 Mania; 21 Woe. WORD SPIRAL: 1 Hiss; 2 Smog; 3 Grid; 4 Dirt; 5 Till; 6 Left; 7 Tomb; 8 Beat; 9 Thus; 10 Star; 11 Raid; 12 Dais; 13 Sped;

CRYPTIC CLUES: Across 1. Use some influence, as puppeteers do (4,7) 9. See 21 Across 10. Norma made a variety of notes (9) 11. Give a lift to one in the army (5) 13. High glee will make one of the family lose his head (7) 14. Happens to be a couple of

79

Wednesday 1st June 2016

80 � RECRUITMENT

WITH THE

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Accounts Administrator We are looking for an experienced Accounts and Payroll Administrator to join our creative design agency, in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. Knowledge of Payroll rules and legislation, accounting software packages (we use QuickBooks) and VAT are all essential. Start Date: Immediate. Salary: Negotiable, dependent on experience. For a full job description, or to apply (we use QuickBooks) please send a CV and brief covering letter to the email below.

Fill your vacancy now in print or online. For more information contact Jordanne Reville at jreville@markerstudy.com or call 01892 576049

NOT REALLY FITTING IN? SOMETIMES YOUR CURRENT POSITION JUST DOESN’T FEEL RIGHT... FIND YOUR DREAM JOB WITH THE TIMES Wednesday 1st June 2016

RECRUITMENT n

81

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PLACE AN ADVERT CONTACT OUR SALES DEPARTMENT ON 01892 779624

Wednesday 1st June 2016

82  WHAT’S ON SEVEN DAYS OF SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AT A GLANCE

WHATS ON WITH THE

Eileen Leahy

Local events >> WEDNESDAY The Beautiful Burrswood art exhibition launches today with a private view happening from 6.30 to 8.30pm in the Orangery. Pop along, enjoy a glass of fizz and some canapés and browse the paintings and photos which depict Burrswood’s scenic beauty through the seasons. Tickets for this exclusive event cost £20 and the exhibition, which is free from tomorrow, runs until June 30. For more information visit www.burrswood.org.uk Just started at the Trinity theatre gallery is a show entitled A Tunbridge Wells Trio in Paint and Print. As its name suggests, the exhibition features three local artists who have collaborated in order to showcase a variety of work inspired by local landscapes which ranges from oil paintings to linoprints. There will be a special Q&A with the artists next Tuesday from 5.30pm. For more information visit www.trinitytheatre.net BRANCHING OUT A print from Trinity’s new art show

>> THURSDAY The Calverley Adventure Grounds (CAG) is running its Jam Jar Challenge for children throughout June. To get involved, find a jam jar and think of ways you can raise money to fill it. Spare jam jars and information sheets can be collected from Perk & Pearl café. Today both Caffe Nero branches

Wednesday 1st June 2016

If you would like to see your events featured in our weekly What’s On pages please email info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

in Tunbridge Wells are holding a fundraising day where children can decorate their jam jars from 10 to 4pm. For more information visit www. calverleyadventuregrounds.co.uk or follow on Facebook at Calverley Adventure Grounds.

TWO’S COMPANY Follow Penshurst’s British Mammals trail Penshurst Place continues its British Mammals trail all this week. On until Saturday June 4, it helps children learn all about wildlife and how to make your garden a friendly space for bugs, birds and bees to frequent. The trails run from 10.30am to 5pm and there are special crafting sessions from noon until 4pm at The Old Coach House. This evening at Trinity there will be a film about the intriguing history of the Teatro Alla Scala in Milan. The Temple of Wonders charts the impressive history of this 238-year-old opera house, which has seen composing greats including Verdi and Rossini and operatic stars like Maria Callas perform there. It also reflects upon the many social and political events which occurred at La Scala. Jazz on The Pantiles continues its summer run this evening with the Trudy Kerr Quartet playing. If you want a lively evening of fine music and lots of great atmosphere then this is the place to be. >> FRIDAY If you’re nuts about knitting then Rusthall’s Knit

and Natter group is for you. Today and the next two Fridays it’s hosting three special sessions where members can make a royal-themed creation to commemorate The Queen’s 90th birthday. The group, which is free to attend, meets at Rusthall library from 2-4pm every Friday. This weekend and next Badsell Park Farm will be holding an exhibition of work done by a group of seven artists based at the historic farm’s studios in Paddock Wood as part of the South East Open Studios project. The show is free but proceeds from the sale of any artwork will go to the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance. There will be a variety of paintings, drawings and ceramics to browse and buy. The event runs from 10am to 5pm. For more information on South East Open Studios visit www.seos-art.org >> SATURDAY If you want to get fit for summer then don’t forget about the free 5k park run that happens every Saturday at 9am in Dunorlan Park. Arrive ten minutes earlier to register your details if you haven’t taken part before. The Tonbridge baseball team will be in action every Saturday at midday as they fight to retain their National A Championship title. You can watch them at their Deaconsfield ground in The Slade. Sussex Country Gardener will be hosting a fun afternoon for little ones in Mark Cross from 11am to 3pm. As well as face painting, crafting and a petting farm, there will also be a Tractor Ted bouncy castle, falconry demonstrations and a BBQ. Tickets cost £5 for children, adults go free. For more details visit www. sussexcountrygardener.co.uk >> SUNDAY At 3pm there will be a musical recital in the Arts Centre Theatre at Rose Hill School. Sarah Bennett will be playing the flute and Daniel King-Smith will be on the piano. For ticket details visit www. rosehillschool.co.uk Foodies should head to

THEATRE OF DREAMS Milan’s La Scala the picturesque Saint Clere estate in Kemsing today for their annual Food Festival. With lots of specialist stalls, local producers and unique gourmet offerings there will be something to suit all tastes. For more details visit www.stclere.co.uk Today the Unfest Sunday Sessions kick off at The Forum. Expect plenty of live music, DJs, spoken word, table tennis, and art workshops. www.unfest.org >> MONDAY Tonight singer Richard Grainger will be performing at Tonbridge Folk Club. Hosted at Ye Olde Chequers Inn on the High Street, the event starts at 8pm and finishes at 11pm. Fellow singers and musicians are all welcome. >> TUESDAY The late Alan Rickman’s final film Eye in the Sky is on at Trinity today. It focuses on the complications that arise when a planned drone missile attack on a group of terrorists is DOWN ON THE FARM Tractor Ted comes to Mark Cross

WHAT’S ON 

A ROUND-UP OF THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS stalled due to a nine-year-old girl entering the kill zone. Alan Rickman plays Lieutenant General Frank Benson while Helen Mirren stars as his boss Colonel Katherine Powell. Showings are at 11am, 2pm and 8pm. At 5pm there will be another wildlife event put on by the park rangers at the Grosvenor and Hilbert Park. This evening it’s a Walk and Talk About Bees and local expert Dr Ian Beavis will be on hand to answer questions relating to them after a stroll around the grounds. Booking is required, visit www.fogh.org.uk

PICK OF THE WEEK The Carnival of the Animals

Paul Dunton

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

Doors 7.30pm, entry price variable, event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk

FRIDAY Leefest launch party details at www.leefest.org SATURDAY Boogie Nights SUNDAY Unfest Sunday Sessions TUESDAY Beach Slang, Weaves and Muncie Girls WEDNESDAY Slaves THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE

The Pantiles. Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7, websites www.pdag.co.uk + www.thegreylady.co.uk

Kidenza presents The Carnival of the Animals at the EM Forster theatre in Tonbridge on Sunday at 3pm. Composed by Camille SaintSaens, this famous piece will be performed by an orchestra of young musicians and further enhanced by Kidenza’s colourful digital animation. There are two shows: 1.30 and 3.30pm and tickets cost £9 per person and children under two go free. For further information go to www.kidenza.co.uk

THE BEDFORD PUB

2 High Street. Open all day, free entry music from 8.30pm till late

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

Live music I highly recommend the Never Landing Festival – a wonderful up-and-coming event organised by local musician Kyla Stroud. The festival is a charitable event which raises money for two very worthwhile causes – Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy and the local charity Abigail’s Footsteps. The majority of artists will be the best of our local Kent and Sussex talent including Jamie Johnson, who found fame as a finalist on BBC One’s The Voice, and Annaca, who recently supported Jools Holland. It kicks off at 2pm and continues into the night with lots of fabulous entertainment, plenty of food and drink and inflatables for the young (and young at heart!) Camping is available on site if you want to make more of the weekend. For more information on the event, visit www.neverlandingfestival.co.uk

83

IN GOOD VOICE Jamie Johnson

SCALLYWAG

45 Mount Ephraim. Open all day, music from 7.30pm, entry charge for music may apply, more information at www.scallywagcafe.co.uk

WEDNESDAY Tom Carradine Cockney Sing-a-long FRIDAY Ed Watts (Jazz Piano) THE ROYAL OAK

Prospect Road. Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm onwards

SATURDAY No Strings Attached MONDAY Open Mic/Jam Session THE BEAU NASH INN

Mount Ephraim. Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late

SATURDAY Total Recall JAZZ ON THE PANTILES NO.9 SMOKEHOUSE

9 Nevill Street. Open all day, free entry music from 8.30pm till late

FRIDAY The Dave Jackson Band SATURDAY Salsadelic THE CROSS KEYS

St John’s Road. Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm, website www.crosskeystw.co.uk

8-10pm. Live music on The Bandstand, free to attend, donations welcomed

THURSDAY Trudy Kerr Quartet TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB

Ye Olde Chequers Inn, 122 High Street, Tonbridge. Free entry music 8-11pm Hat collection (£7 recommended Full details at www.tonbridgefolkclub.org

MONDAY Richard Grainger

WEDNESDAY Sonny’s Jazz, Paul & the Nocasters with guests FRIDAY Rykmead & The London Blues Machine MONDAY TWURPS Ukulele beginners’ session WEDNESDAY Sonny’s Jazz THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE

WEDNESDAY No show FRIDAY Breezers Blues Band SATURDAY Unit 7 SUNDAY Alex Beharrell, Adam Cooney, Nick Stephens, Tom Harvey TUESDAY Caleb Howard-Almond, Lindsay Field & Mick Rose, Quentin Holway WEDNESDAY Stuart Evans, Andy Twyman and Mystery Clarke Band

Crescent Road. Show times & ticket prices vary, visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk for more details

THE PUNCH & JUDY

11 St Stephens Street, Tonbridge

Castle Street. Open all day, free entry, music from 9pm till late

TUESDAY We Ghosts

FRIDAY Soul Hounds

FRIDAY Killer Queen (Queen tribute) TRINITY THEATRE

Church Road. Show times & ticket prices vary, visit www.trinitytheatre.net for more details

SUNDAY Rave On: A Tribute to Buddy Holly CASSIDY’S SPORTS BAR

Wednesday 1st June 2016

84 n ARTS & CULTURE

History in the making Before Fiona Bruce and her team of experts from the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow descend on Ightham Mote, near Sevenoaks, on June 16 she tells Eileen Leahy what makes the much-loved Sunday teatime show a success and reveals why thousands of people queue for hours to have a chance to appear on it. She also talks about how she unearthed a baroque masterpiece, her love of French literature and why she ended up sleeping in a castle… Have you always loved Antiques Roadshow? Yes, I used to enjoy watching it with my parents and then again in the years before I was asked to present it. It was definitely a fixture of my Sunday evenings. Do you have any special antiques at home which you are fond of? I don’t have any valuable antiques, but I do collect samplers. They are pieces of skilfully stitched embroidery and I have a late 18th century one portraying a map of Britain of which I’m particularly fond. The colours are jewel-bright and it’s in excellent condition. You’ve been presenting Antiques Roadshow since 2008, what do you enjoy most about it? I love working on it for so many reasons. I’m with a great bunch of people, some of whom are now close friends. I very much enjoy meeting the people who come along to the show and talking to them about their objects and their stories. I relish the challenge of making television with no script, just spontaneity. And I am lucky enough to visit some of the most beautiful places in the country – who wouldn’t love a job like that? What has been the most extraordinary or touching find you have come across since your time on the show? By a country mile the most extraordinary thing has to be an Anthony van Dyck painting that I was fortunate enough to spot. And the most touching? Well, there have been so many. The coat buttons that were really gold coins stitched into a coat by an anxious mother for her daughter at the outbreak of World War Two was special. They were Jews living in Austria and the mother sent her teenage daughter into the unknown with only the secret coin coat and the hospitality of strangers to survive. She did, but sadly her mother didn’t. Were you surprised when you started on the programme at how early people start queuing and by what they bring? I am constantly taken aback by the amount of time people queue for and by the variety of items the public take to the shows – and how they do so. One couple turned up with a painting in a rowing boat, which is why we put that sequence into the opening titles. Where is the most interesting Antiques Roadshow venue you have visited? They have all been fascinating in different ways, but perhaps the most fabulous venue was Leeds Castle in Kent. After the show we were given the keys to the castle and were able to stay in it that night. Usually we have to stay in a cheap hotel by the motorway! Do you have any memorable tales of unique finds by members of the general public? Someone brought along a chamber pot dating from World War Two. It had a picture of Hitler on the bottom of it and also played a patriotic tune. It was surprisingly valuable.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

PERSONAL TIMELINE Fiona Bruce has presented Antiques Roadshow since 2008

ARTS & CULTURE �

85

STAR OF THE SHOW Ightham Mote will host Antiques Roadshow on June 16

How many different locations have you visited during your time on the show? I would estimate it at well over a hundred. Have you visited Ightham Mote before? No, but I am very much looking forward to it. There are a lot of literary finds that are featured on the show. Do you have any favourite authors? I read a lot but I don’t have a particular favourite. I’d say a truly great book is Eugenie Grandet by Honoré de Balzac. It is a work of understated brilliance. After a busy filming schedule how do you unwind? By being outdoors – on horseback ideally, or even just walking the dog. I used to run quite a bit but I have injured my foot and I can’t do it any more. What kind of response do you get from the public when you’re out and about? Sometimes people think they know me when they don’t. One woman insisted I was in her swimming group, despite my protestations to the contrary. Your career has brought you a lot of success. Do you give back by supporting any charities? Yes I do: Refuge and Women’s Aid. Domestic violence is a depressingly recurrent feature of our society. Why some men think it’s OK

‘I enjoy meeting people who come to the show and talking about their objects and the stories’ to hit or intimidate a woman escapes me but it continues to happen, with often horrifying consequences for the woman and her children. What are your ambitions for the next few years? Are there any places that you would like to visit? I’d love to go to Australia – I bet there are some great Pom antiques out there! Antiques Roadshow will be filming at Ightham Mote on Thursday June 16 from 9.30am-4.30pm. Entrance is free and everyone is welcome to come along. You don’t need tickets or to pre-register, just turn up on the day with your car boot sale finds and family treasures. For more information on attending Antiques Roadshow go to www.bbc.co.uk/ antiquesroadshow or follow them on Twitter @BBC_ARoadshow and Facebook. #AntiquesRoadshow trends every Sunday when the programme transmits.

FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT ANTIQUES ROADSHOW n

It began as a pilot show about a London auction house in 1977 before being officially commissioned as a series in 1979.

n

Antiques Roadshow has consistently been in the BBC’s Top Ten Factual programmes since it was first shown on television.

n

The programme’s first presenters were Bruce Parker and Arthur Negus, followed by Hugh Scully, Michael Aspel and Fiona Bruce, who joined the programme in 2008.

n

The show has been exported all round the world – to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada and countries throughout Europe, South America and East Africa.

n

The show’s famous theme tune is an extract from Brandenburg’s Concerto No 3 in G major.

n

In 2015 the highest number of people – 35,000 – attended an Antiques Roadshow filming day when it was held at Walmer Castle in Deal, Kent. Fascinating objects which came to light on the day included a leather jacket belonging to former US President John F Kennedy, which was given a six-figure valuation.

n

The programme is regularly watched by more than six million viewers.

n

A gold-plated Leica Luxus II camera – one of just four ever made – was discovered 12 years ago and valued at between £500,000 and £800,000.

n

A model of Antony Gormley’s Angel of the North statue became the first seven-figure valuation – £1,000,000 – in Antiques Roadshow history in 2008.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

86 ■ THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Kent Barker Country matters

After taking a leap from London, the plan was to start a new life in the countryside and a career as a famous author. Instead I acquired a dog and part-time work managing a community orchard. You can read these experiences on my blog: www.kentcountrymatters.blogspot.co.uk

Smurfs stay triumphant as French flics trump Belgians

I

WAS chatting to a Belgian policeman in the pub the other evening. Sadly he didn’t look anything like my image of a Belgian police officer – which is to say he was not a jot like Hercule Poirot. But what, you may reasonably ask, did Hercule Poirot actually look like, being, as he was, a fictional character? Well, the answer’s obvious of course, he looked the spitting image of actor David Suchet, who played him over the course of 24 years. During that time Suchet represented him in all 33 of the novels as well as many of the 50 short stories that Agatha Christie had written. Just think about it. Thirty-three novels with the same lead character. I’ve tried, and largely failed, to put my fictional hero, Keith Barclay, into two novels. By halfway through the second I was getting a bit bored with him and thought it time to invent someone new. But Christie went on churning out Poirot stories over the course of more than half a century. Mind you, her tally is trumped by Georges Simenon, who wrote no fewer than 75 novels featuring his Gallic detective Jules Maigret – though he only managed a paltry 28 short stories. Can anyone tell me what the record is for the largest number of novels with the same protagonist? I couldn’t easily turn up anything on the net. Perhaps I needed a copy of the Guinness Book of Records. Gosh, that brings back memories of Christmases past. The excitement of opening the latest volume to find out what, for instance, was the largest number of people ever assembled dressed as Smurfs? (The answer, in case you are interested, is 1,253 and was achieved by the Muckno Mania Festival in Castleblayney, Co Monaghan, Ireland). Now, as I’m sure you know, The Smurfs – or more properly Les Schtroumpfs – are characters created by the Belgian comic artist Peyo. Which rather neatly returns us to the pub on Friday night and the conversation with my Belgian policeman, who – as far as I know – has never featured in anybody’s novel or series of novels being, as he is, not a glamorous murder squad detective but rather a lowly traffic cop.

Wednesday 1st June 2016

Mind you, as he says, mopping up the mess of a four-car pile up on the motorway is not a terribly glamorous job. Which made him seem quite human. The thing is I’m of the generation that

‘What, for instance, was the largest number of people ever assembled dressed as Smurfs?’

take a hand off the bars to salute a senior officer, constables were permitted to nod to them instead). Anyway, it transpired that my new ‘quite human’ police friend was over here to seek out old vinyl records, while his wife was mainly interested in books on flowers. So he had to traipse unwillingly round Sissinghurst and Great Dixter, while she had to kick her heels as he toured dusty shops in Hastings and Rye to rifle through stacks of ancient albums (some quite possibly on the Stax label!) They weren’t the only Europeans in the Woodcock that evening. There was a family from Luxembourg, too (plus, I suppose, all the Brits who, for the moment at least, can still term themselves European). And of course when we fell to discussing the referendum they – the continentals – said they thought we must be quite bonkers to even contemplate withdrawal. However, either way, it seems unlikely to stop them wanting to come over here and raid our National Trust gift shops or antique record emporia. While we’re verging on the xenophobic, why not take the test and name at least ten famous Belgians? And it’s no use including Hercule Poirot or Tintin – they’re not real!

regarded policemen not as your friend, but as agents of the state who were out to oppress you. It was a view that was perhaps informed by the baton charges of the Paris Riots of 1968 and the shooting of the Kent State students in Ohio two years later (though this was actually the National Guard rather than the police). But the constabulary in this country didn’t seem much better with their attack on working people at Orgreave during the miners’ strike and, as we now know, a massive cover-up over the Hillsborough stadium deaths. Looking back, it’s curious how this bifurcated view of the police should have come about. I was instructed from an early age, should I ever get lost, to ask a policeman for directions. I was brought up watching that nice PC Dixon on the beat at Dock Green, and there was our real-life avuncular village bobby, PC Lambert, who rode round on a police ‘Noddy’ bike – a Velocette LE 200. (A quick diversion here – the first motorbike I owned was an ex-police Velocette LE and I discovered COMIC WINNERS The Belgian Smurfs they were called Noddy bikes because, unable to

Time to get your garden ready for the summer… THE frosts have gone and summer is virtually here, it’s time to get your garden ready for a summer outside. We’re all starting to envisage balmy evenings sat in the garden; the wafts of rich floral scent you get at this time are lovely as certain plants do their best to attract the evening nectarseeking moths. It’s worth planting a few night-scented plants around your patio area to create this wonderful fragrant sensation. Some to consider are Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Verbena Bonariensis, Tobacco Plant (Nicotiana), Evening Primrose and Night-Scented Stock. When you’ve got friends coming round and an instant garden makeover is needed, there’s an easy solution. Give the grass a mow and tidy up your lawn edges with an edging knife. This will give you a clean, sharp, well-kept look that will just need a quick snip every now and then through summer to maintain. The garden is transformed and eyes are distracted from the weeds you’ve not got round to clearing. Fill gaps in your borders with annual bedding plants such as Cosmos, Salvias, Calendula (Pot Marigolds), Cornflowers and Zinnias. All have an extended flowering season if you deadhead, preventing the plant from going to seed and letting it think it’s done its job. All of these also make excellent cut flowers, so bring the garden inside in a vase. It’s not too late to sow some runner and French bean seeds for an autumn crop. Just pop the seeds in the soil at twice their depth, water and give them something to climb up. They’ll germinate in no time at all. Also sow small amounts of cut and come again salad leaf seed every few weeks – you’ll get to enjoy freshly picked salad until the first frosts, without the need to buy in bags of shop salad. JO MANSER www.producefromthegarden.co.uk

Lifestyl@ord

TONBRIDGE - 01732 758726 • TUNBRIDGE WELLS - 01892 739131 WWW.LIFESTYLEFORD.CO.UK

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/lOOkm) for the Ford Edge range: urban 43.5 (6.5) - 44.l (6.4), extra urban 51.4 (5.5) - 52.3 (5.4), combined 47.9 (5.9) - 48.7 (5.8). Official C02 emissions 152-149g/km. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Based on limited stock vehicles only and must be ordered and registered between 01.04.16 and 30.06.16. *Finance example shown available over a finance period of 25 months with £7,692.15 customer deposit, £500 deposit allowance, £8,192.15 total deposit. Amount of credit £21,802.85. Charge for credit £321.15. Finance Facility fee £10. Purchase Fee £10. Total amount payable £30,336.15. Optional final payment £17,348. 0.8% APR, 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charged at Bp per mile. When financed with Ford Credit. Finance subject to status. Other charges for metallic paint and extra factory options. Must be over 18 and a full UK resident. Guarantees/indemnities may be required . Freepost Ford Credit. Prices correct at time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability at Lifestyle Ford. Lifestyle Ford reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time and without notice. Lifestyle Ford Head Office 3 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 BAG. Images for illustration purposes only, metallic paint available at an extra cost.