Times of Tonbridge 4th May 2016

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

All the news that matters

Local, National and International Tonbridge Castle

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OF TONBRIDGE

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MARKET WATCH: ASSET MANAGER SCALES BACK ON UK INVESTMENTS Pages 8-9

HOMELESS CHARITY FEARS SHORTFALL IN FUNDING Page 2

David vs Goliath showdown with Facebook over litter app By Neill Barston A TONBRIDGE businessman has found himself in the global media spotlight after making a plea to Facebook’s creator Mark Zuckerberg not to force him to change the name of his app, which helps keeps Britain tidy. Danny Lucas developed Littergram, a social media app which identifies litter hot spots by getting users to send photos of problem locations. It has gained a phenomenal following from the public and the system’s potential was recognised by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, which became the first local authority in the country to sign up as a partner. However, Facebook, which recently bought Instagram, the internet’s popular photo-sharing application, claims Littergram is too close to the name of its acquisition and has demanded Littergram’s

own name is phased out within months. In response, developer Mr Lucas recorded a video appeal to the social media giant’s boss Mark Zuckerberg, asking him not to take legal action against his environmental campaign, which started last year and could potentially have worldwide impact. But he has yet to get a response. Mr Lucas, 48, said: “We have been doing so well with Littergram, and I just never imagined that Facebook would have a problem with us. I thought our name just represented a means of sending reports on litter.” Mr Lucas, who works for a construction company in Wrotham, explained the inspiration for his app naming and shaming problem litter spots came directly from identifying how waste within his own industry could be disposed of in a more environmentallyfriendly manner. He added: “There has just been a huge

response to this and I’ve appeared on CNN news in America. Plus, news organisations from Nigeria to Australia have been contacting me. I’ve also been asked to appear on the BBC’s One Show, which has all fuelled our momentum. There has been a lot of hard work on this, which would be undone if we had to change our name. We have been working with schools and now everyone knows us as Littergram. “We have been very concerned, as we don’t have the money to fight a legal case. We are just trying to help save the UK from a litter

crisis that costs around £1billion to deal with, which has meant we are now the third worst country in the world on this issue.” Mr Lucas revealed he had been served notice by Facebook to make changes to the disputed app name, but he is still hopeful the internet giant will see common sense. He is urging people to pledge their support by posting at: #savelittergram on Twitter. A spokesperson for Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council said that since February it’s received more than 150 reports of littering, and confirmed that it plans to continue using the app as CLEANING UP part of its overall Danny Lucas litter-picking operations.

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FACEBOOK TO SUE IF LITTER APP NAME IS NOT CHANGED

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BASEBALL CLUB READY TO SWING INTO NEW SEASON Page 2

INSIDE SCREEN TEAM

Angels heart campaign helps to save lives of young players

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CAMPUS CLOSES

Job losses feared as college plans move from North Farm

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FOOD & DRINK

Town festival offers a feast of tasty new experiences

Butcher’s pastie wins top industry award

A CUT ABOVE Ben Stoneley and Roger Plummer at Whites Butchers

WINNING four industry accolades has proved the perfect way for Whites Family Butchers in Tonbridge to mark its 15th anniversary. Owner Ben Stoneley picked up the honours at the National Meats Products Competition held at the Foodex, NEC Birmingham. His team, based in Martin Hardie Way, was up against a high level of competition from independent butchers and farm shops from across the UK. The awards include a Gold accolade for its West Country Pasties, silver

honours for the company’s Welsh Lamb Shank, Carrots and Peas Pie, and a bronze for its gourmet burger. Mr Stoneley said: “We’ve always believed in the taste and quality of our products to give the best to our customers. To have won these awards makes me even prouder to be a local independent butcher. “I think winning the awards will make a big difference in terms of sales and we’re really chuffed about it. We have won awards before, but that was quite a few years ago,” explained the owner, who said starting up the business with

his mother Vivienne 15 years ago had been a rewarding experience. He admitted it has been hard work maintaining the company against increasing supermarket competition, but believes the business is well supported locally because of its entirely free-range products. Mr Stoneley added: “I really like working in the area and being a part of the community here. It’s long hours and we all have to muck in with it together, but gaining these awards does make you realise that people appreciate what we are doing.”

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PROPERTY

Special section featuring the finest homes on the market

See property section

2 � LOCAL NEWS

Weather Wednesday Dry with bright or sunny periods.

May 4, 2016

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15 C

By Neill Barston

Visibility: Excellent

Pollution: Low

Humidity: 48%

Sunrise: 05.25am

Sunset: 20.27pm

Wind: 10mph

Thursday

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17ºC

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A gaggle of Canada geese chicks soak up the sun on the river near Haysden Photo by Percy Read

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

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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

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QUOTE UNQUOTE ‘I would challenge you to a battle of wits, but I see you are unarmed’

William Shakespeare

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Charity forced to sell property to keep going HOMELESS charity The Bridge Trust fears for its future, after being forced to sell one of its Shipbourne Road properties to help plug a funding shortfall. John Handley, Chief Executive of the Tonbridge-based organisation, admits the move had been necessary to cover the work it does to support vulnerable people in the area. He said the charity is unable to meet the growing demand for its services, underlined by an increased waiting list of applicants. Last year, 141 people from across West Kent sought its assistance, but its local properties are only able to support a total of 27 short-term residents. Mr Handley believes plans outlined in George Osborne’s recent budget could also have a potentially ‘devastating effect’ on its long-term finances. According to Mr Handley, the charity, based in Quarry Hill Road, which is marking its 25th anniversary this year, may lose up to 20 per cent of its income if Government plans are adopted. These could see not-for-profit accommodation providers’ status altered so they receive rents at a reduced Local Housing allowance rate. If implemented, this could be brought in from 2018 and affect The Bridge Trust’s long-term viability. Its annual running

costs are between £450,000 and £500,000. Mr Handley said: “This is a big concern for us. If the Government brings in the changes, it is very hard for small charities like us to absorb those losses.”

‘We would always welcome more volunteers’ He said there were further pressures on its budgets as other Local Housing Associations it works with are also being financially squeezed by the Government. They are being ordered to directly cut rents by one per cent each year for the next four years (having previously been allowed to modestly increase rents annually), meaning their own finances were stretched to ensure enough places for homeless people.

move its furniture storage warehouse at Cannon Lane, now being redeveloped by McDonald’s, to a more remote location at Paddock Wood. It has been renamed as Bridge Revivals Homestore, which is part of its wider retail rebranding as Bridge Revivals for its two charity shops in Tunbridge Wells. “We have found with our charity shops that we are just not getting the level of stock donated to us which is needed to generate sales, so everything is welcome and we would always welcome more people volunteering,” added Mr Handley, who said there had been strong support shown from organisations including the Tonbridge Old Fire Station, which had assisted in helping it host a charity quiz night towards its overall fundraising. For information on donating, visit: www. thebridgetrust.org.uk

The charity suffered another recent setback when it was forced to

FUTURE FEARS Bridge Trust Chief Executive John Handley

Baseball club swings into action AFTER a triumphant league-winning performance last season, Tonbridge Baseball Club is expanding with plans for a new youth team. The side, which was founded by Margaret Borley in the 1980’s, has produced a number of players who have gone on to represent Team GB. Margaret later received an MBE, the first baseball coach to be awarded the honour. Treasurer David Mote says the club has brought a colourful slice of US sporting action to Kent and has proved so popular that baseball is now on the curriculum at The Hayesbrook School. The club is now encouraging a squad of young hopefuls to join the two adult teams who will be competing in British Baseball Federation ‘Single A’ league this season. The Tonbridge Bobcats and Wildcats play at Deaconsfield in Tonbridge. Mr Mote said: “I used to play baseball a lot as a kid

growing up in Canada, where it’s the main summer sport. I didn’t play for many years after moving to the UK but started up again about ten years ago. “I’ve loved playing here. It’s really all about having some fun and getting people out having some exercise,” added the Treasurer, who said he has particularly enjoyed being involved with baseball coaching at The Hayesbrook School.

Beginners are welcome to join in with training sessions held each Wednesday at Deaconsfield from 6pm. For more information about the club go to: www.tonbridgebaseball.com

TEAM EFFORT David Mote (left) and the Tonbridge Baseball Club squad

LOCAL NEWS 

New state-of-the-art facility at college could mean job losses By Neill Barston STAFF from the Hadlow Group’s Tunbridge Wells campus are being relocated to the West Kent College site in Tonbridge as part of wider restructuring plans. The move has raised concerns that there will be job losses and, according to senior management, consultation has begun with 50 staff at its North Farm site. However, the group has confirmed it aims to minimise redundancies as it moves specialist construction sector and motor vehicle courses from Tunbridge Wells to Tonbridge. A recent review of the Hadlow Group by the Government Skills Funding Agency showed its West Kent and Ashford Colleges were rated as outstanding for their financial performance. But a senior spokesperson said the present Tunbridge Wells site was ‘not fit for purpose’ and closing it would pave the way for a planned new multi-million facility at its West Kent campus focused on construction industry and engineering teaching. He said: “When we took over K College in 2014 we made the decision to run all its provisions as they were for two years, and we would evaluate them after that. “We have identified that the courses at Tunbridge Wells will relocate to Tonbridge, where we have planning permission for a state-of-the-art facility there for construction and motor vehicles. “The site at Tunbridge Wells doesn’t belong to us and is something that we inherited – it is essentially just two industrial units – and we are having to bus in 40 per cent of a total of around 220

number of staff would be retained as part of the move. He added: “It is never an easy process over redundancies, but we have to prioritise investment in our colleges and our students. “We are consulting with staff and will be looking to relocate them within the business.” Mike Moran, regional official for the University and College Union, expressed concern about potential job losses as a result of the campus closure. He said: “UCU is concerned about the proposed site closure, which would have a major impact on both staff and the local community. We will be meeting urgently with the college to discuss the situation and will work to defend members’ jobs.”

Heart screening is a team effort CAMPAIGNERS have raised nearly £30,000 towards life-saving heart screening for football teams across the county, including Tonbridge Angels. The Football Fightback scheme was started in conjunction with The Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) charity following the death of 24-year-old Junior Dian, who suffered heart failure while playing for the Angels last summer. One of the screening project’s key supporters has been Roger Maddams, who lost his own son Jack seven years ago in a similar incident while in the Tonbridge squad. So far this year, the scheme has already screened 800 young players around the county. Mr Maddams said: “We feel that this campaign is vitally important, as it can save lives. From the hundreds of screenings that have been done in the past year, there have been a couple of cases where things were picked up and that would not have happened if they hadn’t had tests. “The tests themselves are very simple and only cost £35 each – but are not something that’s easy to have on the NHS. If you have them done privately

through medical insurance, it could cost hundreds.” He added that staff and fans of Tonbridge Angels had been ‘tremendously supportive’ of the screening initiative, which will continue on a rolling basis into next season. The last session at the team’s Longmead Stadium

SCREEN TEAM Dame Kelly Holmes and MP Tom Tugendhat line up with Football Fightback campaigners

NEWS IN BRIEF

Hildenborough Station death ‘not suspicious’ A WOMAN died after being struck by a train at Hildenborough Station on Monday evening. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 9.50pm, but were unable to save her. British Transport Police (BTP) said: “We were called to Hildenborough Station following reports of a person being struck by a train. “Officers from BTP, Kent Police and paramedics from the South East Coast Ambulance Service also attended, where a woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family have been informed of her death. “The incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the Coroner.”

Park life improvements

FUTURE PLANS West Kent College students there from Tonbridge. So from a business perspective and from a student experience point of view we have decided to relocate these courses,” explained the spokesperson, who confirmed the proposed move would take place from this September, which would enable the group to build on its stable financial foundations. He added that Hadlow remained in conversation with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council about potentially opening a future new campus within the town. On the issue of redundancies at its North Farm site, the spokesperson added that negotiations would be continuing over the next five weeks. But with many of the existing courses being transferred to Tonbridge, he believed that a

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was supported by double Olympic gold medal winner Dame Kelly Holmes and Tonbridge & Malling MP Tom Tugendhat. As well as the screening scheme, Mr Maddams has also contributed to Tonbridge Angels in helping lead a successful bid for £8,000 funding from Sport England towards setting up the club’s new ladies team, which is due to start its first league campaign this autumn. In terms of fundraising activities, Mr Maddams, said the club had been particularly proactive for Football Fightback, including staging events such as the annual AngelFest, which is now in its fifth year. It takes place between May 27 and 29, and features music, family entertainment and a wide selection of Kentish ale and cider. To donate towards Football Fightback, visit www.justgiving. com/footballfightback

GRANTS of more than £37,000 are helping to improve to the Barden Lake area of Haysden Country Park. Funding for the project has come from the Cory Environmental Trust and Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, with a further donation by the Tonbridge and District Angling and Fish Preservation Society. There are also plans for a new jetty overlooking the lake. Work is due to be completed this year before the start of the school summer holidays. It follows £50,000 funding from the SITA Trust that will broaden the range of play equipment at the site.

Vote for new crime boss RESIDENTS can cast their vote in the Kent Police and Crime Commissioner election tomorrow (Thursday, May 5). With present postholder Ann Barnes standing down, the six candidates are Henry Bolton (UKIP), David Sandru Naghi (Liberal Democrat), Tristan John Osborne (Labour), Matthew Richardson Scott (Conservative), Gurvinder Singh Sandher (Independent) and Steve Uncles (English Democrats). A seventh candidate, millionaire buy-tolet property magnate Fergus Wilson from Boughton Monchelsea, failed to overturn a High Court decision that his nomination papers were filed incorrectly. For details of polling stations, visit www.kentparo.org.uk

River rubbish removed MORE than 40 Environment Agency staff took on a litter-picking exercise of the Medway River, using canoes, between Tonbridge and Allington Locks. They collected a total of 50 bags of rubbish, with a wide assortment of waste being discovered that included items such as gas bottles, pallets, chairs and barbecues.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

4  LOCAL NEWS VANISHING? The old cinema site

projects in Manchester, while Mr Tillman was responsible for Argent’s first two City of London office buildings including one that was built on top of the old Roman Governor’s Palace near Cannon Street station. Last year the directors were joined by Nigel Robson, who was a founding partner of Resolution Property and head of its UK asset management and investment, having previously worked with the other directors at Argent.

BIRMINGHAM Here’s one they did earlier

They already have something similar in the pipeline

So just who are these people that want to rid our town of its biggest eyesore? ALTITUDE Real Estate Ltd is a private company based in Cheltenham specialising in office, residential and mixed-use development and “strategic land assembly”, which involves acquiring and holding properties. Established in 2011, it focuses on locations in London and major towns and cities that have a strong local economy and affluent demographics. The company was set up by Gary Taylor and Stephen Tillman, who had previously been joint managing directors at the property developers Argent. Both joined the company in 1994 and had been board directors for a decade, during which

2000

time they had been heavily involved in projects in Birmingham. The Birmingham Post described Mr Taylor, who is also a director of the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, as “one of the most influential characters in the transformation of Birmingham over the past two decades”. The pair completed an award-winning city centre regeneration at Brindleyplace, which cost £400million and covered over a million square feet. This diverse “city quarter” scheme involved retail and leisure outlets, serviced apartments, 11 office buildings, multi-storey car park, hotel and theatre

The Millennium dawns and the cinema shuts. Last film: Space Cowboys

2001

Wednesday 4th May 2016

2004

Site bought by local developer GLN

around Sir Norman Foster’s stunning National Sealife Centre. Then they decided to leave Argent, which was heavily involved in a massive development at King’s Cross in London, in order to concentrate their energies on another of their former company’s “city core” schemes in Birmingham. The ongoing Paradise Circus project covers a seven-acre office development costing £750million. They have been awarded £60m of Entreprise Zone funding from the government to help with work on infrastructure. Mr Taylor had also been involved in large-scale

GLN secures right to build shops, apartments and a nightclub. Site sold to Irish developer Rydell Properties

2008

Mr Robson has been responsible for a number of Resolution projects such as the development of Ocean Terminal on the waterfront in Edinburgh, and an ongoing project at Brewery Square in Dorchester, Dorset, which has seen innovative new architecture being incorporated alongside the town’s historic buildings. Altitude already have something similar to the old cinema site in the pipeline, at the District Centre in West Byfleet, Surrey. Late last month it was granted planning permission by Woking Borough Council after the site was bought for £10.5million in August 2015. The area includes the town’s main shopping centre 200 yards from the station, part of which consists of a seven-storey concrete “carbuncle” built in the 1960s called Sheer House. This has fallen into disuse apart from a parade of shops at ground level and a car park. The company is working in conjunction with the council on the project, which it aims to convert into a “vibrant mixed-use space that ties in with the area and provides the possibility of a large space for community activities and public focus”. The company’s ideas include a new square, to create a “core heart”. Director Stephen Tillman said of the Surrey site: “Fundamentally, the town has everything one would look for. We want to start from scratch and take a holistic approach to look at how people use the town centre.”

2010

Cinema still not demolished and surrounded by blue hoardings. Rydell puts it up for sale

Plans submitted for £50million project given go-ahead. Demolition scheduled for January. Completion predicted for Christmas 2010

LOCAL NEWS 

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Developer pledges to build project to make town proud Boutique cinema has not been ruled out if there is big enough demand By Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE PRIVATELY owned company that last week bought the old cinema site in Tunbridge Wells has moved to quell fears that it might prove to be another false dawn. Altitude UK told the Times that it ‘fully appreciates’ why residents might feel sceptical about anything actually being built on the site that became a major eyesore since being vacated nearly 16 years ago. The reassurance comes after the town’s MP warned that people’s patience with the long-running saga has been exhausted. Greg Clark said: “The old cinema site has been plagued with false starts so I won’t get my hopes up until I actually see work starting on the ground. “The new owners just need to get on with it – our patience has well and truly run out.” Altitude, which hopes to put shops and restaurants on the plot, has been working on the project and with the borough council for the last three months before the site was purchased on April 25. It is the fifth company to own the 1.3 acre plot since the cinema closed in 2000. The previous

2012 2011

owners, Carlyle Group, spent £10million on buying the land five years ago. The most recent purchase price has been described as ‘commercially sensitive’ and has not been disclosed. Numerous proposals for the site have been put forward over the years, including for a Waitrose, hotel and mixed-use schemes, although none of them has ever got beyond the drawing board. Altitude co-founder and director Stephen Tillman, who was born in Maidstone and is familiar with Tunbridge Wells, insisted his company fully intends to ‘build bridges’ with the local community. He added: “Knowing a bit about what has gone on with the site in the past, I can fully appreciate there is scepticism as people don’t know us from the next developer. “But we want to build up a relationship with the community and the council, both of whom we intend to consult as we go forward.” He stressed the company intends to deliver a project the town will be ‘proud of’ and was not put off by the failures of previous developers to make the LOCAL KNOWLEDGE site work. Stephen Tillman Mr Tillman said:

“Our background has been about delivering projects in complicated places and making something from them.” Altitude is fully aware of the issues surrounding

‘We have a long and exciting journey ahead of us’ the railway tunnel that runs under the plot and difficulties with access. Mr Tillman said that this development is of similar magnitude to one Altitude is currently undertaking in West Byfleet, which is also in its early stages. On its website the company states it is delivering the West Byfleet project while working alongside ‘Woking Council, occupiers and local groups’. But he stressed that each development was unique: “Every site has its challenges with regards to physical and social constraints and you have to make it work with the local environment.” Gaining planning permission for the intended mixed-use development should take between nine and 12 months, the developer suggested, folATTRACTIVE TOWN lowed by a further two Nigel Robson years for construction.

Owners’ planning application to be submitted within a ‘couple of months’ following growing anger over the eyesore

The Carlyle Group buys the site for £9.9million

2013

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However, he stressed they were eager to get ‘straight into delivery’. “For this reason we will probably submit a detailed plan rather than just go for outline planning permission,” Mr Tillman said, adding that the initial strategy for Altitude is to hold on to the freeholds – though this may change. He also hinted that going for another cinema screen was not off the table. “We are aware of the proposed cinema development in the shopping centre, but if there is shown to be demand and depth to the market I do not see why there couldn’t be something boutique on the site.” Mr Tillman said the company was very enthusiastic about working in the town: “Tunbridge Wells is a great place and we have a long and exciting journey ahead of us.” Fellow director Nigel Robson said: “Tunbridge Wells is an attractive town with an affluent catchment area and first-class connectivity to central London. He added: “We believe there is a significant untapped potential in the area for high-quality restaurants and residential development that will help boost the town’s day and nighttime economies.”

Negotiations with Waitrose. Demolition begins and by October is complete

Still no planning application. Carlyle’s dealings with Waitrose stall. MP Greg Clark implores Carlyle to seek a new deal

2015

In April, Carlyle finally announce it wants to sell the site

Wednesday 4th May 2016

6  LOCAL NEWS

Minister believes living wage can make jobs more attractive

Market flooded by hard-working, low-paid workers from Eastern Europe POINT MADE Panel members with David Dimbleby

MP GREG Clark found himself pinned down on the subject of immigration and the European Union when he appeared on the panel of BBC1’s Question Time last week. A member of the audience had asked if Britain would be able to control economic migration if it chose to remain in the EU in next month’s referendum. The weekly topical debate, that attracts 2.7million viewers, was being recorded at Hull City Hall. A human resources worker, she described how the job market had been flooded by hard-working, low-paid workers from Eastern Europe, and how one worker had become depressed because no one else on his assembly line spoke any English during a 10-hour shift. “There are not an infinite number of jobs,” she said.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

“There isn’t infinite housing, infinite NHS.” It was claimed that the Conservative Government’s decision to introduce a higher minimum wage would only serve to lure more immigrants from Eastern Europe to this country in order to seek work. However, the Government Minister claimed that the creation of the National Living Wage of £7.20 an hour would mean that British workers would be more inclined to perform these menial jobs in which they had previously shown little interest. The Conservative Member for Tunbridge Wells was directly challenged by the host, David Dimbleby, to explain - in his capacity as Secretary of State for the Department for Communities and Local Government - how towns and cities would be able to cope with what was described as a ‘massive drain on our resources’ in schools and hospitals. “You’re the Communities Minister, what’s your answer?” the veteran presenter demanded. “First of all, we have for the first time the ability to require people to contribute to the benefit system before they can draw on it. This is a very significant change,” he replied. This claim was rejected by other panellists and members of the audience who said that the migrant workers from countries such as Romania did not come here simply to claim benefits but to find work, a point to which he referred in his next response.

He continued: “Secondly, people come from Eastern Europe to do jobs that other people from this country haven’t been doing. What we’ve had is the introduction of the National Living Wage, and the increased pay can help make those jobs more attractive to people here who haven’t been doing them in the past.” The debate alluded to the admission made by Home Secretary Theresa May that remaining in the EU would mean that the country would be less able to control the influx of migrant workers from other countries inside the union, even though she was a supporter of the Remain campaign. Mr Clark is an ardent supporter of remaining within the Union. CHALLENGED Immigration and the EU

Markerstudy celebrates 15 remarkable years… WEST KENT based Markerstudy Group is celebrating 15 years since it was founded in 2001 by Chief Executive Kevin Spencer and Underwriting Director Gary Humphreys. The pair set up the company with the hope of securing £10million in business in one year. Today it controls 55 brands including Zenith Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance, Auto Windscreens and One Media, which publishes this newspaper. It has a turnover of over £2billion and employs 4,000 staff across 95 properties. Since it was founded, the firm has also benefitted from a string of successive achievements and impressive accolades. These include 42 award wins in the last three years alone, a ‘Gold Standard’ tribute from Investors in People and ‘Extraordinary’ status in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For, for four consecutive years. Mr Humphreys said: “We simply cannot believe how far we have come in this relatively short time. We’ve already far exceeded our own expectations, and now enjoy raising our own bar. “Our success has been due to good instincts, tenacity, courage and a fair bit of luck. “But I must also extend a heartfelt thank you to our fantastic employees, brokers and insurer partners, without whom none of this would be possible. “All have played a considerable part in our exhilarating journey to date and we can’t wait to see where the next 15 years takes us.”

LOCAL NEWS 

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Residents to be given legal briefing on fight against Targetfollow’s ‘land tax’ Andrew Tong newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk PEOPLE living on Rusthall and Tunbridge Wells Commons are being invited to meetings later this month where they will receive legal advice in their ongoing battle with Targetfollow. The owners of Rusthall Manor sent out their latest letter, headed ‘Without prejudice save as to costs’, repeating details of how those who live on the commons may be liable to pay the company for access to their own properties and utilities. It stipulates an annual fee of £350 and a sign-up charge of £300 – in many cases simply to get in and out of houses by crossing a narrow strip of grass – and to use the gas, electricity and water

services provided across the common land. It is the third letter the company has sent. Two meetings will be held at the borough council offices at the instigation of Rusthall Parish Council to provide ‘reassurance’. Exact dates have yet to be confirmed. The meetings will be attended by Jill Thomas of Tunbridge Wells solicitors Thomas Haywood, who will be on hand to offer legal advice. Targetfollow has now openly recognised the right of ‘prescriptive easement’, when access is permitted because it is ‘legally established or accepted by long usage or the passage of time’ – the period being 20 years or more. This had not been mentioned in earlier letters. In the latest correspondence they specify that residents have ‘the opportunity’ to provide

LEGAL ANGLE Jill Thomas will attend the two residents’ meetings

documentation of any deed of easement or licence, after which ‘no further action will be taken’. If the rights have not been registered, Targetfollow offer to do so ‘for a one-off fee’. And if neither of those criteria is met, the company ‘will contact you to agree a licence to formalise rights that you require’, and negotiate the fees on a case-by-case basis. They add that they have found ‘there is no evidence of the existence’ of such prescriptive rights having been recorded with the Land Registry. But if freeholders satisfy the requirement of long usage, they are not under any obligation to register such rights. Jill Thomas tells the Times: “Some of the residents might choose to go through the process of registering in order to give themselves peace of mind. There can be no dispute if the residents do register. “But Targetfollow do not know who has done so and who hasn’t. Some are registered on their deeds, some have held licences in the past, and some have done nothing. The problem is that if one person gives in to Targetfollow, they will think they are on to something.” One of the meetings will be held during the day and the other in the evening to allow as many people as possible the chance to attend. Rusthall Parish Council has advised residents ‘not to respond or enter into any licence agreement’ with the Norwich-based property investment and development firm. The company has insisted that it is merely trying to formalise the position of residents in response to enquiries from the locals who are trying to sell their properties. However, far from helping with the sale, the succession of letters has hindered those who are attempting to move away because the correspondence appears on internet searches.

IGNORING LETTERS COULD LEAD TO DIFFICULTIES There are circumstances in which residents who have not registered any rights of access and refuse to pay for them after receiving a letter from Targetfollow could be landed in legal difficulties. Tunbridge Wells solicitor Jill Thomas said: “Ignoring the letters and doing nothing is not necessarily the solution. “They may have their claim to qualify for prescriptive easement denied by three factors which the law describes as ‘nec vi, nec clem, nec precario’, meaning ‘without force, without secrecy, without permission’. “So if the landowner has ever said to you in the past, ‘Oh yes, it’s fine for you to walk or drive over the common’, you might not be entitled to claim prescriptive rights as a matter of course. “Similarly, if someone who lived in your property before you moved in had been given permission, that might also invalidate your claim.” Though they are less likely scenarios, she added that the same could apply if you ‘break down some gates or decide to access the common in the dead of night’. Mrs Thomas warns: “If Targetfollow do choose to pursue some of the residents, their options are either to go to court to seek a declaration that they have recognised prescriptive easement or to seek to register prescriptive easements at the Land Registry. “But both of these courses of action would cost money,” she pointed out. “What might happen instead is that the residents could band together and make applications for a declaration to be heard together by the court.”

Gatwick campaigners say town’s voice must be heard AIR flight campaigners representing Tunbridge Wells have called on their MP, Greg Clark, to ensure the town is well represented in a new initiative to combat flight noise. The establishment of a Noise Management Board was one of the recommendations made in the recently published Arrivals Review, with an aim of fostering closer cooperation between Gatwick and surrounding communities. However, members of the Tunbridge Wells Anti Aircraft Noise Group

(TWAANG), which was established to give a voice to the town last year, are worried that one of the areas most affected by overhead flights will be ignored. One of the main problems of the new initiative, group Chair Dr Irene Fairburn believes, is the limited representation on offer for community groups affected by aircraft noise. Current plans for the board, which is to be inaugurated this summer, only allocate two places to community representatives, one east and the other west of Gatwick.

In a letter to Mr Clark, Dr Fairburn said: “The Tunbridge Wells conurbation is the biggest concentration of population in the area and it was reported to have been the main source of complaints following the 2013 changes to arrivals routes. “It would be totally wrong for this densely populated area to not have a representative alongside the more rural areas and we ask you to ensure this.” She goes on to suggest the number of community representatives is expanded to four, so the concerns

of both rural and more urban residents are voiced. The Noise Management Board has the long-term goal of influencing the next major shift in aircraft flight paths, which is scheduled to be implemented by 2022. However, despite being several years away, the process has already begun and Dr Fairburn said it was vital for the town to have its say. She added: “It is important for a town which relies very heavily on tourism and its general ambience to be heard.”

Wednesday 4th May 2016

8  LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Asset manager scales By Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BREXIT, extreme volatility, low growth and uncertainty – these are just a few of the challenges facing the financial sector, and those with exposure to the markets. Few people pay closer attention to these scenarios than those who work in asset management and are tasked with delivering a return on the investments they make on behalf of their clients. Among them is Pam Beith, who for the past 30 years has built a career in asset management and since 2009 has overseen the running of Brooks Macdonald in Tunbridge Wells as Senior Investment Director. With over £8 billion under management, the firm is not a titan of the sector, which is valued in trillions. However, unlike many of the big players who will only offer a limited range of modular managed options, its speciality in Tunbridge Wells is designing bespoke investment portfolios specific to each client with at least £200,000 to invest. This process requires a keen eye for investment and a thorough understating of economics. Explaining how these portfolios are created,

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Ms Beith said: “There is a very specific investment process in place, which all 90 investment managers in the firm have to adhere to. “If you don’t, you have 90 managers doing their own thing which is a massive business risk.” She added that to mitigate the risk, the firm puts together a ‘buy list’ of assets, across a range of classes including equities, cash, fixed income and property and more, which managers are allowed only limited deviation from. Each manager contributes to the ‘buy list’ with their own area of research into a specific sector, allowing them to pool their knowledge and experience. When building the portfolio the managers have the ability to go overweight or underweight on each asset class, within guidelines, in order to build a customised portfolio which deviates from a more traditional modular approach. At their client’s request, or with the manager’s discretion if they deem it appropriate, money can even be invested directly into stocks rather than use funds as intermediaries – a riskier option, but potentially more rewarding. “The portfolios are individually tailored to our clients’ needs rather than be a model whereby everyone who buys into a particular risk model

‘We are of the belief that although the bulk of our investors reside in the UK, you don’t necessarily have to have all your money invested in the UK’

has the same portfolio at the end of the day. “For us, someone wanting ‘medium risk’ would probably have an allocation of between just over half to three quarters in global equities, with the rest made up of different asset classes and different markets. “We are of the belief that although the

MEET THE MANAGER Pam Beith

baulk of our investors reside in the UK, you don’t necessarily have to have all your money invested in the UK.” She said that over the past year, the firm has been gradually reducing its clients’ exposure to the UK market as the referendum of Britain’s membership of the UK approaches.

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS 

9

PAM BEITH’S CAREER CV

back on UK investments And with trust in polling data at an all-time low following last year’s general election, there is still a great deal of uncertainty over which way it may swing. Instead, Ms Beith said many analysts are now looking at the book makers odds as a key indicator to how the population may vote. “Depending on the outcome, we expect volatility not just in the run up to the referendum but for a long time after too and the market hates uncertainty.” Company analysts believe the worst case scenario from the fallout of a Brexit would be the disintegration of the European Union, although this would be extreme. Ms Beith also thinks London will be able to maintain its prominent position as a leading financial centre, but could still take a knock if access to European markets becomes harder. “We have kept some exposure to the UK, because if we vote to stay in we believe the market will react positively to that, but we have been paring back in favour of other markets. “For example we are a bit more positive on Europe, although there are still unresolved issues which are yet to come back into play and there are uncertainties surrounding the impact of a Brexit. “So there are other areas which at some stage you need to start looking at again, markets in the Far East and Japan for example, which we are quite positive on.

“Typically the US market has in the past done particularly well during the year of a presidential election but we think this year might be slightly different because the candidates are a little more different than we have seen historically.” She said the company was currently ‘on the

‘The portfolios are individually tailored to our clients’ needs’ fence’ about China. “Their growth is still far in excess to what we are getting in the developed world but this does not necessarily translate into being a great economy to invest in. “But at some stage the entry point is going to look more attractive but there has been incredibly volatile conditions in this area which wouldn’t necessarily suit all investors.” For Ms Beith, 2016 has been the ‘most volatile’ start to a year she can remember, pointing out that proportionally the number of days in which the FTSE 100 has swung by more than 1 per cent either way is at record levels. “I have been doing this for 30 years and I have never known such a bad start to the year, it is not normal to see so many days with such marked movements either up or down. “The problem is there is just so much specu-

lation taking place that you have to sometimes ignore the noise and look at the fundamentals and make a decision.” However, she said the markets remained ‘fragile’ and the high level of volatility would be around for the foreseeable future. “Until we can actually truly believe we are in for a period of sustained and reasonable growth, and the headwinds we are currently facing are removed, it will remain like this. “But we are long term investors and so long as you make sure you have exposure to asset classes which are less affected by the peaks and troughs of equities - such as commercial property which can deliver attractive yields at the moment – then we can work towards preserving the portfolio’s capital. “And simply preserving the capital is our aim for a worst case scenario.”  Brooks Macdonald was founded in 1991 by Chris Macdonald, Jon Gumpel and Richard Spencer and became a publicly listed company when it floated on the Alternative Investment Market in 2005. Recent performance has been strong, and in the first quarter of the year added an additional £241m in discretionary funds under management, taking the total to over £8bn level. Last week, Mr Spencer old a 4.3% stake in the wealth firm worth just under £10 million.

With almost 30 years of experience, Pam Beith is a veteran of the industry. Born in England but educated in Scotland she had originally intended to go to Glasgow University after being accepted to study chemistry in 1978. However, she took up a summer job with the then named Commercial Union in Glasgow and five years later, found she was ‘still there.’ “By 1984 I had clearly made the decision that chemistry was not for me and looking for promotional opportunities moved down to Woking and two years later started working for a discretionary fund manager in Guildford, where I spent the next 12 years.” In 1998 Ms Beith was approached by a law firm who was setting up its own Discretionary Fund Management services and asked if she would head up the team there, an offer she accepted. In 2002 the company became part of Ashcourt Asset Management, where she stayed until December 2008. She was then recruited by Brooks Macdonald in January 2009 to head up their new South East branch which they had decided to locate in Tunbridge Wells. Accepting the job was a big decision, however: “At that stage I thought if I was going to make a move it will be the last move I make and hoped it would be where I would end up retiring at the end of the day.”

Wednesday 4th May 2016

10  LOCAL FEATURE

Colourful jumble or simple salvage? It’s here waiting for you This month the coveted Decorative Living Fair returns to Eridge Park and is being sponsored by the Times of Tunbridge Wells and sister publication So Tunbridge Wells. We take a look at what to expect from this year’s event… IT’S the fair that people talk about all year round, and the buzz about this event is one of the most satisfying rewards for organisers Caroline Zoob and Hetty Purbrick. “People telephone us to ask for the date months in advance so they don’t book holidays at the same time,” says Caroline. So what makes this fair so special?

‘Anyone who enjoys browsing antique and vintage treasure for their home and garden will feel as though they have fallen into paradise’ “The venue is spectacular,” says Hetty. “It’s such a lovely place to linger and spend the day. I think that because the exhibitors enjoy being there, they make a huge effort with their stands and the result is a very beautiful and inspiring fair.” The clue is in the name: the show is about making your home and garden beautiful, whether your idea of beautiful is pared back simplicity with one or two key salvaged pieces, or the colourful jumble of spongeware on a painted

Wednesday 4th May 2016

dresser. Anyone who enjoys browsing antique and vintage treasure for their home and garden will feel as though they have fallen into paradise. There really is something for everyone, with prices ranging from pence to thousands. While most of the stallholders are dealers in antiques and vintage, there is some fashion and jewellery, as well as a couple of exhibitors who sell contemporary homewares. “We are very keen on finding designer-makers whose work incorporates vintage or recycled materials, and we love to support brand new businesses such as Nancy Meiland Parfums and Bodie and the Nomad, both of which have launched at the fair,” says Hetty. How Green Nursery, suppliers of plants to many a Chelsea gold medallist, create a fabulous display of plants on the terrace – and many exhibitors sell garden pots and statues, as well as pretty French garden furniture. The Blackbird Café is renowned for delicious cakes and lunches, and if the weather is nice tables and chairs are set up on the lawns to enjoy the far reaching views. “People tend to stay for most of the day, alternating between shopping and browsing and exploring the gardens,” says Caroline. “It is great fun laying out the fair and creating a journey through the different stalls. “It’s hard work, but a couple of years ago I heard someone saying, ‘It’s the fair I look forward to all year’ and it gave me such a thrill!” The Decorative Living Fair comes to Eridge Park on May 13 and 14. www.decorativelivingfair.co.uk

SHOWING INTENT ‘The exhibitors enjoy being here so they make a huge effort’

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12  LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Injured athletes likely to benefit from new treatment first tested on horses Last April, the Times wrote about the growing use of electrotherapy to treat injured horses, a technology being pioneered by the Hawkhurst-based company Arc Equine. Adam Hignett finds out what’s happened since THE local firm Arc Equine has pushed the boundaries yet again with the launch of clinical trials for the first official version of the device for human use. Among those who have already benefitted are injured international rugby players and clients taking part in Olympic sports. It is hoped that the device will eventually help to reduce the dependency on drugs in treatment. Arc Equine was originally chosen as one of the 20 best inventions and innovations in The Gadget Show Live British Inventors’ Project and has been credited with some remarkable results. It appears to accelerate healing, reduce pain and remove scar tissue using a small electrical current, classed in the medical world as a ‘micro-current’, which replicates the one produced by every cell in the body. Ian Thirkell, who attended The Skinners’ School and worked in the police force for 30 years before setting up Arc

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Equine, admits when he first heard of electrotherapy he was sceptical. “I was told about this technology in 2002 and thought it was complete and utter witchcraft,” he said – but he decided to keep ‘an open mind’. He looked into the work of orthopaedic surgeon Robert Becker, who had conducted trials in the US during the 1950’s and ’60s and shown impressive results. “Exploring the boundaries of the clinical applications of this technology has driven me for the last 14 years,” he said. “I have seen everything which I read about in those books, and more.” NEW HORIZON He has been workArc Equine founder ing closely with Ian Thirkell Professor Gordon

Turnbull, a former medical officer in the RAF who specialises in traumatic stress. He said of the benefits of Microcurrent Treatment (MCT): “There is no doubt, following extensive research, of the effectiveness of MCT in promoting and accelerating healing of inflammation in body tissues.” Having been tested by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRS), the equine technology currently retails at £450. The human version will be known as Arc4Pain. It has already been widely used, especially in sport, where it helps athletes recover faster from injury. Mr Thirkell said some of his clients play international rugby and take part in Olympic sports. He estimates around 1500 people with a range of ailments have tried the technology in the last ten years. The currents are so small, to mimic those naturally found in the body, that they cannot be felt but act as a set of ‘jump leads’ to kick-start the body. “If there’s damage or trauma to a group of cells, it’s like a broken electric circuit. We introduce this same current from an external source and it reboots the body.” Mr Thirkell said the company would conduct rolling programmes of double blind and randomised clinical trials ahead of commercial production of the human therapy.

“Even though we are now authorised to market this for pain and muscle regeneration, we are not going to do anything without first conducting these trails,” he said. Different currents target various functions in the body, and the initial trials will be for those who suffer from migraines. Mr Thirkell believes the product will be on sale by the autumn at an estimated price of £300. However, he is not only motivated by personal gain. “I’ve been doing this for 13 years and it has cost me a fortune, but I’ve yet to make a penny from it. “Yes, I’d like to make money, but that’s not the driving force. That’s to have acceptance of the Arc as a mainstream alternative to drug dependency and drug use.”

PROFESSOR TURNBULL SAID: “Microcurrent Treatment (MCT) has become a major focus in psychiatry because of the discovery of neurogenesis, the capacity of the central nervous system to restore physiological function by the growth of new nerve cells and nerve pathways. This can also resolve problems involving psychological function such as behaviour, cognition and thought, as well as movement and sensation.”

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14 � NATIONAL NEWS

Supporter answers door legend holding Premier AS LEICESTER City fans poured out into the streets around the King Power stadium on Monday night to begin celebrating after their team secured the Premier League title, a smaller party was taking place a short distance away. Lifelong supporter Steve Worthy, who is the third generation of his family to follow the club, watched the crucial 2-2 draw between Chelsea and Tottenham, which handed the Foxes the title, on TV with his 98-year-old grandmother Gladys Kenney. She first saw them play in the 1949 FA Cup final. They were revelling in Leicester’s success when there was a knock at the door. Mr Worthy answered it to find former Leicester midfielder Muzzy Izzet carrying the Premier League trophy. He told Mr Worthy he had won the honour of handing the league trophy to club captain Wes Morgan after Leicester’s home game against Everton on Saturday. The 39 year-old said: “We didn’t know this was going to happen. “I answered the door and Muzzy Izzet was stood there with the Barclays Premier League trophy, so that was a brilliant thing.

“We got to take photos with Muzzy, who is a bit of a family legend, so that was magic. “I think I’m probably the first Leicester fan to touch the trophy, which is brilliant.” Following the final whistle at the King Power this Saturday, Mr Worthy will hand the silverware over watched by his grandmother, who has been given a pitch-side seat for the occasion. He said: “It’s brilliant, I cannot wait to give that trophy over, especially to Wes (Morgan). “I’ll try and take it all in, every moment,” he added. Leicester fans took the streets again on Tuesday when it was announced that members of the team were going for an Italian lunch together at the San Carlo Pizzeria in the city. Leicester boss Claudio Ranieri admitted he was almost overcome by emotion after winning the Barclays Premier League and insisted it can be the start of a new era for the club. He flew back from Italy after visiting his 96-year-old mother in Rome on Monday and landed at

‘The players have been fantastic. Their focus, their determination, their spirit has made this possible’ East Midlands airport in time to return home and watch Tottenham’s draw with Chelsea. The Italian manager, aged 64, who had never won a league title before, congratulated his players and fans. He said: “I’m so proud. I’m happy for my players, for the chairman, for the staff at Leicester City, all our fans and the Leicester community. It’s an amazing feeling and I’m so happy for everyone. “I never expected this when I arrived. I’m a pragmatic man, I just wanted to win match after match and help my players to improve week after week. Never did I think too much about where it would take us. “The players have been fantastic. Their focus, their determination, their spirit has made this possible. Every game they fight for each other and I love to see this in my players. They deserve to be champions.”

Expats fight for the right to vote in EU referendum BRITISH expats have won permission to launch an urgent appeal after losing their High Court battle for the right to vote in the European Union referendum on June 23. The appeal is being brought by 94-yearold Second World War veteran Harry Shindler, who lives in Italy, and lawyer and resident of Belgium, Jacquelyn MacLennan.

Two judges in London rejected their test case claim that Section 2 of the EU Referendum Act 2015 is incompatible with their right to freedom of movement under EU law because it excludes British citizens from voting if they have been living elsewhere in the EU for more than 15 years. Law firm Leigh Day, which is acting on behalf of Mr Shindler and Ms

MacLennan, announced on Tuesday that the High Court has given the pair permission to take their case to the Court of Appeal. The appeal judges will be told that the 15-year rule prevents many expats from participating in a democratic process which might deny them the very EU rights on which they rely in their everyday lives.

Report backs road tunnel plan at Stonehenge PUTTING a major road past Stonehenge into a tunnel could benefit the World Heritage Site if the scheme is well designed and constructed, an international report has concluded. Heritage bodies in England have welcomed the report by the International Council on Monuments and Sites and United Nations cultural body Unesco, which said there were positive impacts of building a 1.8 mile tunnel for the A303 past the stones. The study, made at the request of the Government, warned that the position and design of the tunnel entrances, embankments, entry and exit ramps and construction works had the potential to

Wednesday 4th May 2016

adversely affect the historic landscape. They would require rigorous investigation, evaluation, design and assessment, the report said – but with “good design and construction controls”, the tunnel should have a beneficial impact on the World Heritage Site. A scheme to tackle congestion on the A303 at Stonehenge – a notorious bottleneck on the route to the South West – including putting the road into dual carriageway tunnel past the stones, was announced by the Government in December 2014. As part of £2billion of works planned for the A303, the scheme – which would include the tunnel – is estimated to cost

between £275million and £1.32billion. Although the stones will no longer be visible to motorists driving past, the tunnel will reconnect Stonehenge with two-thirds of the World Heritage Site that lie to the south of the A303 and are currently cut off by it. Heritage groups which manage the area have said the tunnel would make the setting of the ancient stone circle more tranquil, give the public greater access to the wider prehistoric landscape and improve the environment for wildlife. English Heritage, the National Trust and Historic England backed the report, which pointed to the benefits of having closed the A344 next to the stones.

NATIONAL NEWS 

15

to find Leicester League trophy

LUNCH MEETING Fans surround the Leicester team coach outside the San Carlo Pizzeria

‘I’m listening’ says South Yorkshire police constable THE new interim chief constable of South Yorkshire Police has said he plans to listen to the families of those who died in the Hillsborough disaster as he starts work with the beleaguered force. Dave Jones, the current chief constable of North Yorkshire, has been appointed to run the force on a temporary basis, South Yorkshire’s police and crime commissioner (PCC) Alan Billings has announced. He was replaced last week on a temporary basis by his deputy Dawn Copley but she had to step down within a day after it emerged she was under investigation for alleged misconduct by her previous force. At a press conference in Sheffield, Mr Jones said he will be undertaking a fundamental review of the force but taking care to include the rank-and-file officers out on the streets. He said a senior officer from another force will also be brought in. The chief said he will be engaging with the Hillsborough families and also those associated with the ongoing controversy over the policing of the Orgreave pickets in the 1984 miners’ strike. He said: “I think I need to hear from the families of the Hillsborough disaster, the truth and justice committee for Orgreave and also the public of South Yorkshire about how they experience policing and what they think’s not working. “But crucially, I also think that the workforce need to be able to get a voice into that review to make sure we fully understand, warts and all, what we think is actually happening in policing.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Investigation awaits Sir Philip over BHS BUSINESSMAN Sir Philip Green has agreed to appear before two Parliamentary committees investigating the collapse of BHS. Sir Philip has come in for widespread criticism after the 90-year-old high street chain fell into administration just months after he sold it for £1, putting 11,000 jobs at risk and leaving a £571million pension fund deficit.

Westminster alert A MAN is being treated for head injuries after apparently falling from Westminster Bridge and landing on concrete steps by Speaker’s Green in the Houses of Parliament. The Palace of Westminster is on heightened security alert following recent terrorist attacks in Paris and Brussels. However, police quickly established the apparent fall was a medical situation and not a security one.

Rail jobs threat A FRESH dispute over cuts to railway ticket offices has emerged, with warnings of job losses. The Transport Salaried Staffs Association said 100 jobs were set to be axed at travel centres on Virgin’s East Coast line between London and Edinburgh. Unions are already in dispute with Govia Thameslink Railway over plans to close more than 80 ticket offices.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

16  BUSINESS NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

FOR SALE Port Talbot steel works

RMT vote on Tube strike

PHOTO: BEN WRIGHT/PA WIRE

AROUND 1,500 maintenance workers are to start voting on whether to go on strike over plans for a night Tube in London. Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union are being balloted in the next three weeks on whether to launch a campaign of industrial action.

HSBC pre-tax profits fall HSBC has posted a drop in profits for the first three months of the year after it was hit by ‘extreme levels of volatility’ in financial markets in January and February. The banking giant reported an 18 per cent fall in underlying pre-tax profits to $5.43billion (£3.7billion) for the first quarter. On a bottom-line basis, profits fell 14 per cent to $6.11billion (£4.2billion).

Somerfield stores sold THE Co-operative Group has agreed to sell 36 former Somerfield stores to the Food Retailer Group, an arm of business restructuring specialists Hilco Capital. It said the move would not lead to store closures or redundancies, with 920 staff moving over to the new company under a TUPE transfer agreement.

Water firms team up WATER firms United Utilities and Severn Trent have won approval from the Competition and Markets Authority to form a joint venture called Water Plus that will compete to supply water to businesses.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Another bid on the table for Tata Steel LIBERTY House has confirmed it is to put in a formal bid to buy Tata Steel’s UK assets. The commodities trading firm, headed by Sanjeev Gupta, was first to express an interest after the Indian conglomerate announced the decision to dispose of its loss-making UK business, including Britain’s biggest steel plant at Port Talbot in south Wales. A spokesman said Liberty is planning to submit a letter of intent to Tata and has put together an internal transaction team and team of external advisers to take the bid forward. A management buyout team is also planning to submit a bid under the name Excalibur Steel UK Limited. It has appointed investment banker Mark Rhydderch-Roberts as a non-executive director.

He joins Stuart Wilkie, head of Tata’s United Kingdom strip steel business, former Alcan senior executive and venture capitalist Roger Maggs, Simon Gibson, chief executive officer of Wesley Clover and company secretary Jon Fernandez Lewis on the board. The Government has pledged to support any buyer of the business by buying up to a quarter stake and making finance available. Tata has not publicly set a deadline for any deal but has made it clear that it cannot sustain the £1million a day losses indefinitely. A spokesman for Liberty said: “We can confirm that Liberty will submit a letter of intent to Tata Steel and has put in place a strong internal transaction steering committee and panel of leading external advisers to take the bid forward.”

Sainsbury’s steps up its online sales SAINSBURY’S is set to reveal lower profits today (Wednesday) after an eventful year that has seen the group return to sales growth and win a lengthy battle to take over Argos owner Home Retail Group. The Big Four grocer won a four-month takeover tussle in early April to snap up Home Retail for £1.4billion – a move the group said will create the UK’s largest non-food store, worth £6billion with around 2,000 stores, concessions and clickand-collect outlets. Sainsbury’s chief executive Mike Coupe, who took over from predecessor Justin King in July 2014, hopes the deal will help the chain counter the mounting threat from online retailer Amazon and German rivals Aldi and Lidl. The most recent industry data also shows Sainsbury’s to have notched up the highest sales growth of the Big Four. Figures from Kantar Worldpanel showed 1.2% sales growth for the chain in the 12 weeks to March 27, despite its decision in February to end multi-buy and buy-one-get-one-free promotions. Sainsbury’s is likewise stepping up its online business by doubling the number of stores offering a “drive thru” click and collect option for groceries. The service – which allows customers to order online before picking up their shopping from refrigerated vans in the supermarket car park – will increase from 100 to 200 stores within the next 12 months.

WORLD NEWS �

17

Spain faces another election SPANISH voters must go to the polls again after politicians missed the deadline to form a new government, following inconclusive elections. Since no political party had enough support to form a government and all parties failed to reach coalition agreements by the midnight Monday deadline, the stage is set for an unprecedented repeat of the general election, six months after the previous ballot ended Spain’s two-party system. Spain has been in a political stalemate, led by a caretaker government with Popular Party leader Mariano Rajoy as prime minister since December 20, when newcomer parties Podemos and

Ciudadanos upset the long-standing dominance of the Popular Party and Socialists. Spain’s king has signed a decree dissolving parliament and setting a new election for June 26 after legislators chosen in an inconclusive December vote failed to agree on the country’s next prime minister. King Felipe VI signed the order in the presence of parliamentary speaker Patxi Lopez after the midnight Monday deadline for installing a new government passed. Spain has never had to repeat elections since democracy was restored in 1978.

Eurovision to air in US – but without Romania THE Eurovision Song Contest is set to air live in the US for the first time in its 60-year history. The grand final on May 14 in Stockholm, Sweden will be broadcast on American TV after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) reached a deal with cable network Logo. Romania will not have an entry this year after being expelled from the contest because the country’s national broadcaster, Televiziunea Romana (TVR), has not paid debts totalling more than £11

million. The decision was taken after the Romanian government failed to meet a deadline of April 20. The EBU’s director-general, Ingrid Deltenre, said it was ‘regrettable’ that they had been forced to take such action. She said: “We are disappointed that all our attempts to resolve this matter have received no response from the Romanian government.” The theme for this year’s edition is ‘Come Together’.

EU economic recovery ‘remains uneven’ THE European Union has trimmed its economic growth forecasts for the 19 countries that share the Euro, saying the recovery could be held back by a likely rise in the price of oil. Although the eurozone economy saw high growth in the first quarter, the EU Commissioner Pierre Moscovici has warned that the recovery ‘remains uneven’. That is true not only between member states as

diverse as Germany and Greece, but also within countries between the wealthy and poor, he said. On the plus side, unemployment in the eurozone is expected to fall from 10.9 per cent in 2015 to 10.3 per cent this year and even dip into single digits, 9.9 per cent, in 2017. Huge differences within the currency bloc remain, with Greece expecting a rate of 24.7 per cent this year, Spain 20 per cent, and Germany 4.6 per cent.

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Wednesday 4th May 2016

18 � COUNCIL COMMENTARY

ADAM HIGNETT’S VIEW FROM THE GALLERY

If you’re planning to interfere with planning decisions then it’s a bad plan

N

OTHING is more contentious to a councillor than planning – especially if it seems their sound judgement on the matter will be under threat from officials telling them to ‘think again’. As the serial Conservative rebel Cllr Sean Holden (Benenden & Cranbrook) observed, our

‘Make sure rubbish is collected and deal with planning’ Cllr Sean Holden

Wednesday 4th May 2016

r­ epresentatives at a local level are elected to do two things, ‘make sure rubbish is collected and deal with planning’. Thus when either one looks set for an overhaul sparks are going to fly. And this is exactly what happened when the representatives from all four corners of the borough congregated for a full council meeting last month and came close to full scale rebellion. At stake were changes to the constitutional framework of the planning committee. Understandably this is as dry as sawdust to the casual observer, but not for those gathered in the chamber in what turned out to be a highly rancorous debate, pitting colleague against colleague, blue on blue. Perhaps sensing ‘Agenda Item Eight’ was going to be hard to sell, Cllr Alan McDermott (Brenchley & Horsmonden), Portfolio Holder for Planning, proposed each of the five suggested changes be debated individually.

‘Designated substitute’ is a meaningless phrase and should be withdrawn …‘Does this help?’ Mayor David Elliott

This way, perhaps, some of it might be salvable. But straight away, ‘proposed change three’ was jettisoned, for reasons which escaped this reporter, leaving just four contentious changes to be resolved. And it did not take long for the first proposal, to reduce the number of councillors represented on the committee from 16 to 14 and introduce a new category of ‘substitute’ member, to be challenged. “You can see the reasons why we want to do it, so I won’t bore you by explaining them again,” said Cllr McDermott, possibly in the belief that the reasons will not wash with some of the ­members regardless. And so it proved. Cllr Claire Stewart (Paddock Wood West) was the first to object, saying that the reasoning given for the reduction, ‘efficiency’, appeared more about ‘change for change’s sake’, which in her opinion was ‘pretty weak, to be honest’. Next up was Cllr Godfrey Bland (Hawkhurst & Sandhurst), who took issue with substitute ­members and who they will be substituting for.

“‘Designated substitute’ is a meaningless phrase and should be withdrawn,” he declared, before a very technical explanation was given in response as to what it actually meant. ‘Does this help?’ asked Mayor David Elliott, who has the unenviable role of chairing meetings of the full council. “No!” was the reply from several members, who by this time were getting restless and waiting to pile in, giving Cllr Julia Soyke (Speldhurst & Bidborough) the opportunity to try and scrap the idea of substitutes. “I would like to propose that we delete the whole paragraph on substitutes altogether,” she said, opening the amendment floodgates. It was the often passive Cllr Lawrence ­Heasman (Pantiles & St Mark’s), himself a member of the planning committee, who first spoke on the amendment: “This whole thing is seeking to fix a problem which doesn’t exist so I support Cllr Soyke and have good reason for doing so.” He said it was ‘ridiculous’ that these substitutes would have to fulfil all the functions of the full

‘This whole thing is seeking to fix a problem which doesn’t exist so I support Cllr Soyke ’ Cllr Lawrence Heasman

COUNCIL COMMENTARY 

‘I have been on planning for 14 years. I know when it works well’ Cllr Dr Linda Hall

members and not get a vote: “So I am totally against these changes, I am sorry to say, as I do not see the point in them.” His impassioned speech hit home. “I am willing to withdraw the proposed substitutes to save any argument,” said Cllr McDermott, giving the rebels their first victory with a unanimous vote to remove substitute members. “I don’t think anyone dared to stick their hand up against the amendment,” said the Mayor after the vote was counted. But this was just the beginning, as yet more councillors spoke up. “I have been on planning for 14 years and I know when it works well and when it doesn’t, and I see no need to reduce the number of members,” remarked Cllr Dr Linda Hall (Benenden & Cranbrook). She was joined by her comrade in arms and fellow ward member, Cllr Holden, who – perhaps because it was the evening before the Queen’s birthday – was particularly fired up to protect the notion of democracy from the unelected. The avowed republican (the Times understands) wanted to row back on every change ever made.

“If anything I would increase the numbers of the planning committee. Every ward should have a representative because the two most important things this body does is empty the rubbish and carry out planning. “It is important for democracy to avoid putting planning into the hands of a small number of people.” Local democracy enthusiast Cllr Edmund Hastie (Goudhurst & Lamberhurst) backed Cllr Holden, with an anecdote about his last parish meeting to discuss planning being so well attended he thought he had ‘gate-crashed a rave’ by mistake. “The three issues that all my constituents care about”, he said, “are planning, planning and planning.” Sticking his head above the parapet to back the changes was Cllr Bob Backhouse (Sherwood) who argued that less people meant ‘more efficient and consistent’ planning decisions.

He was joined by Council Leader David Jukes who, despite admitting he was no expert on the subject, reminded those present that the same fuss had been made in 2013 with previous changes and everyone lived to tell the tale.

‘It is important for democracy to avoid putting planning into the hands of a small number of people’ Cllr Edmund Hastie

19

Ultimately, the amended first proposal squeaked by with 20 votes in favour and 16 against with four abstentions, as did changes two and four, with equally small margins as Cllrs Holden and Hall kept up the rhetoric. “We are talking about planning here,” exclaimed Cllr Hall at one point, as if to highlight how high the stakes were. However, the debate ended in a draw when proposal number five, to give the unelected planning officers power to call for a ‘rethink’ if a decision doesn’t go their way, was scuppered. After a further speech on democracy by Cllr Holden which would have made Roman orator Cato proud, the Dear Leader had eventually had enough. “I think this item needs redrafting and it might seem odd but I am going to move for a deferral of this particular item,” he announced, to cheers, laughter and applause as the congenial atmosphere started to return. However, it was not all rancour and principled debate throughout the session. This reporter swears he overheard whispered snippets of conversation between Labour and Liberal Democrat members involving the words ‘school bus crash’ and ‘Putin strike’. Perhaps planning is not their thing (and they were fond of abstaining) or perhaps they were just happy to sit back and watch the theatre of the Tories doing what they do best nowadays: fight each other. We look forward to keeping you updated with the inner workings of our borough council and local democracy in action…

I L L U S T R AT I O N S : Becca Corney www.becillustration.com

Wednesday 4th May 2016

20  COMMENT

Greg Clark

MP for Tunbridge Wells

Greg Clark was elected to Parliament as a representative of Tunbridge Wells in 2005. The Conservative MP has since held a number of positions in government and currently sits as a member of the Cabinet in his capacity as Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government: www.gregclark.org

Your community needs you! IT HARDLY seems a year since General Election day – in which all of the pollsters were confounded by a result that none of them were expecting: A majority Conservative government. Last year’s was an exciting contest in which 66 per cent of the electorate cast their vote – the highest proportion since Tony Blair’s first landslide election in 1997. In fact, contrary to popular belief, turnout in General Elections has been rising steadily in each election since 2001 – a welcome development in our democracy. Yet not so many people vote in council elections. When this week’s elections were fought four years ago less than half the people voted as did in the General Election: 31 per cent, which was itself a drop from 35 per cent four years before that. As Secretary of State for Local Government, I have a particular interest in seeing good, strong councils. I want them to be performing at their best so I can transfer more power to them and to local people. I want them to be working together in new and creative ways to provide high quality services to residents – at a reasonable cost. I hope that more and more people will start to vote in council elections. Councils provide

Wednesday 4th May 2016

important – vital – services. Care for the elderly and children; homes for local people; protecting the natural environment; collecting refuse; providing leisure facilities, parks and gardens; providing highways and transport. In the past, services like these were provided by local councils but the money to pay for them

‘We’re working to put power back into the hands of local people’ came overwhelmingly from central government. We have been one of the most centralised countries on earth. When David Cameron became Prime Minister in 2010, nearly 80 per cent of money spent by councils came in the form of government grant. And since most of that money came with strings attached – detailed national rules on how it should be spent – many voters were canny in realising that, in the past, council elections mattered less for local services than who was in power in Westminster.

But that’s all changing. Since 2013 councils have been able to keep half of any growth in business rates. By 2020, they will keep 100 per cent of the revenue from business rates. This is a huge shift: Councils will be responsible not only for spending money, they will be responsible

for growing their own income through attracting more businesses. That puts a big premium on electing councils who can spend the money they raise wisely, and who can help attract new businesses, and encourage existing ones to expand – because more business will mean more income for your council and make for better services locally. And I have always believed that councils and local communities, who know their local areas best, should have more control over the decisions that affect them – which is why we’re working to put power and resources back into the hands of local people. The reasons for voting in local elections, as well as in national elections, are increasing all the time. And this week, as well as electing local councillors, we will be choosing a Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent – with the important task of setting the budget for policing in the county, and determining the priorities for its use. So whether it be policing or local services, tomorrow’s elections will have a big impact on our lives for the four years ahead – I hope that people will seize the chance to make their choice.

USE YOUR POWER Be sure to vote

Visit: www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/ council/voting-and-elections/ elections-5-may-2016

ADVERTISING FEATURE �

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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

A WHOLE NEW GROTSPOT? Morrisons after its closure

Morrisons: Don’t let it be an eyesore

The closure of Morrisons came as a sad blow for food and grocery shoppers in TW. Now the empty site has become a huge eyesore and all the windows have been boarded up with unpainted plain chipboard along with the rest of the former shop front. This, inevitably, will lead to unsightly vandalism by graffiti. Before it is too late, can TW Council look at the situation and see what can be done to improve the look of the abandoned site and avoid the fate that befell the former cinema site [which after 15 years has just been sold]. A professional evaluation of this prominent site and its possible future use is now a matter of urgency. Maybe you could run a competition for suggestions. My thoughts would be for a ten-pin bowling centre with a gymnasium or a roller skate rink. Whatever, I hope the Council gets its skates on! Christine Smith Via email

NHS: No fan of junior doctors

Dr Langhit Kurar [April 27] claims that ‘patient safety would never be jeopardised’ and, with staggering arrogance and no small amount of insensitivity, goes on to say that ‘the main casualties are the junior doctors themselves’. Does he believe that cancelled treatments do not put patients at risk? Or dragging out waiting lists does not debilitate further the health of patients who already have no certainty of their treatment dates? Dr Rahee Mapura, in the same article, states that she’s not read the proposed contract document – 80 pages long in full – and relied on the increasingly politicised BMA’s synopsis. Is it too long for her? Perhaps her time would have been better spent reading it in full rather than wasting it on the picket line. Whatever sympathisers the doctors have for their cause, this household cannot be counted among them. Hugh Masters Pembury

Facelift: Another dog’s breakfast

It’s with a terrible feeling of dread and that it will all go wrong when I read in last week’s Times of Tunbridge Wells [April 27] that more roads in Tunbridge Wells are to be turned into pedestrianonly thoroughfares. We’re still trying to put right the awful dog’s breakfast of the last adventure: Is it too much to expect that – in the over-used, cliche-ridden world of the politicians’ lexicon – ‘lessons have been learned’? Edward Baker Tunbridge Wells

EU: Un-elected bureaucrats

I take issue with the letter from Deborah Rees [April 13] who is accusing the Vote Leave campaign of being misleading. She states that 50 per cent of UK trade is with the EU with only ten per cent of EU trade being with the UK. Talking percentages is always a good trick for distorting facts and is just as misleading as what she is complaining about and is like comparing apples and pears. Assuming the UK population at a rather conservative 60m (allowing for all the holes that the EU policies have opened up) and say an overall population of 508m inhabitants across the whole EU, even my simple maths ability means that if we traded with ten per cent of the EU population, that is with 50.8m people and actually larger than the UK trade with the EU in only representing the equivalent of trading with 30m people. I recall, when growing up as a kid, my mum being dead against joining even the Common Market as it was then. Her argument was the UK has always been a great trading nation, already had the Commonwealth and should concentrate on that and the wider global trade rather than redirecting focus more towards Europe. Since then of course the Common Market has evolved into the EEC and eventually the EU with its much wider ‘project’ ambitions around political union. I don’t trust MPs in this country, but far less the extravagant unelected bureaucrats who run the EU today. T Beach Via email

Elections: Tackling the issues

May I congratulate you on your election coverage [April 20]. Everyone has been banging on about the EU and of course it’s important, but it’s like we’ve forgotten about the matters that really have an impact upon our lives – the police and the council budget. The referendum has conveniently allowed the Government to stop talking about the next round of sweeping cuts at local council level, and the reduction in the number of officers on the streets is one of the hidden scandals of our day. This is what we should be focused on in the next couple of

weeks. This is the age of austerity, and these days no one expects the full range of services that councils could once provide, let alone the friendly bobby on the beat – or the police being able to tackle burglaries, what a thought! But we still need to put pressure on our elected representatives to maintain levels of social care as our hospitals fill up to overflowing and vulnerable elderly patients, or ‘bed blockers’, are sent home. And then there’s always the spectre of violence on our streets, especially as people start to go out more in the evenings, and the victims who face additional suffering because they can’t get into Pembury’s overwhelmed A&E department. If Britain wants to put itself first, then let’s start by tackling the issues that really matter to us. Miranda Rawlings Via email

EU: Canardly credit his views

Pro EU correspondents (Magnus and Underhill) writing to Times of Tunbridge Wells should get their facts right before suggesting that EU lawmaking is anywhere near democratic. The EU Commission proposes laws, not the Parliament. If the Parliament seeks to amend a proposed law the Commission has to approve the amendment. The Commission also enforces EU law, meaning that effectively it is the EU Government. The EU Council invariably rubber stamps measures that often would be unacceptable to individual national parliaments. The Commission is made up of commissioners that are appointed not elected. They are therefore not accountable to the electorate. Messrs Kinnock and Mandelson were elected MPs but left Parliament to be appointed as commissioners. The present UK Commissioner, Baron Hill of Oareford, one of the Highgate metropolitan elite, is an appointed life peer. Just like his predecessor, Baroness Ashton of Upholland, he has never been elected by the general public to anything. He didn’t even want the job. When asked shortly before his appointment if he would accept the post of Commissioner, he retorted in his best French – Non, non, non! Mr Magnus’s contention that nobody would call our own Government undemocratic beggars belief, given that UKIP polled nearly four million votes at the last election but won only one seat in Parliament. In his argot you canardly credit his views on democracy! Terry Cload Pembury

Education: Teachers take a bow

It’s great to read good news about our schools given the pressures teachers face. Well done Bennett for staging a EU referendum debate and hosting Radio 4’s Any Questions? And Mead School, for their award-winning A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Roland Hawkins, Via email

We will always do our best to publish all letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter because of its length or content. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Calverley FORMER BHS boss Sir Philip Green is very much back in the news. He’s hitting the headlines over the way he sold the high street store for a £1 leaving a bit of a mess with the pension. The store is now sadly in administration. (Fingers crossed for those with jobs in the Tunbridge Wells store). Calverley is reminded of the time a colleague called Mr Green at home to talk about the sale. He was advised: “Please go away. It’s Sunday and I am watching football.” Actually, the language was slightly more colourful, but this is a family newspaper. Pity the journalists who call him now. NOT a lot of money to be made from running restaurants these days. Which is why canny owners often have a fallback business. Calverley hears that such is the case with one local restaurateur who, the tale goes, is the proud owner of a number of homes, some of them former council properties. When we say a ‘number’, we really mean around 600. Bit like owning a council estate. SPOOFING is a strange game. It’s where each player hides a number of coins in their hand and then has to guess the total round the table. And the reason for telling the tale? Well, it’s a popular game at that most excellent of St George’s Day lunches organised by the Exiles (that’s another story). Calverley watched the play the other day and could not but help notice a certain latitude with the rules. Cheating. The loser had to down a drink and one popular chappie had been targeted. Final result? Not a leg to stand on. THE St George’s Day lunch at the Spa Hotel gets ever more popular each year. And with good reason. Where else could the likes of Calverley sit sipping his port while watching eight people on the next table consume 22 bottles of wine, pints of lager plus spirits and then attempt to hold a conversation. Oh yes, the comedian was a fully-fledged Roman Catholic priest with a wife. He was given special dispensation from the Pope when he switched churches. Never dull. CALVERLEY is himself frequently asked to address august gatherings but declines. Himself, though, is not one for the limelight. However, he is seriously considering changing his stance after hearing some public speakers can command vast sums. One of those is no less a comedian than Al Murray, whose character The Pub Landord [the xenophobic publican] raises many a chuckle. His fee for half an hour at lunchtime? £38,000. Calverley needs an agent. Chin chin

Education in association with:

www.brightyoungthings.co.uk

EDUCATION �

Mayfield School is first past the post in show jumping… A TEAM of junior riders from Mayfield School are celebrating becoming the National Schools’ Equestrian Association County Champions after they beat 30 other regions last week at the Inter-County Show Jumping finals at Bury Farm in Buckinghamshire. The pupils, aged from 14 to 16, were representing East Sussex and rode exceptionally well to advance to both National County Champions at Intermediate level and Reserve Champions at Open level. The two teams were made up of Kitty Ashby, 13, Catherine Haurie Moss, 14, Scarlett Vereker, 16, Amy Whiffen, 16, and Molly Faulkner, who celebrated her 14th birthday on the day of the prestigious show jumping competition.

Quickest

BEST IN SHOW (L to R) Kitty Ashby, Molly Faulkner, Jill Barker, Catherine Haurie Moss and Amy Whiffen

The girls have been training for the event over the past year, dedicating many hours a week to riding after they have finished their studies. Jill Barker, Director of Riding at the independent all-girls’ school in Mayfield, said: “This emphatic win is such a fantastic result for our intermediate team. Not only were they the only team to have all four riders jumping double clear, but they were also the quickest by 17 seconds! “All of our riders followed the team plan and rode exceptionally well, and I am very proud of them.”

23

By Royal Appointment BENENDEN School has been given the very special honour of being included in the commemorative book which officially marks Her Majesty’s 90th birthday. The book, which will be given as a souvenir to dignitaries, heads of state and various other VIPs during a four-night extravaganza which takes place at Windsor Castle from May 12 to 15, celebrates The Queen’s life with chapters on her involvement with the Armed Forces, her dedication to the Commonwealth and also her love of horses. Another section is dedicated to education, which is why Benenden was asked to take part by the book’s publishers, St James’s House, as it is where Princess Anne went to school. “We are proud to have educated The Princess Royal, so it was wonderful to be approached by the publisher with an invitation to appear in the event’s commemorative album,” said Benenden School’s headmistress Samantha Price. Opened in 1923, the exclusive all girls’ boarding school near Cranbrook was home to The Queen’s only daughter from 1963 to 1968. She has been a strong supporter of her alma mater ever since. Richard Freed of St James’s House publishers said: “We were delighted when Benenden School agreed to help us mark this important milestone.”

BROUGHT TO BOOK Benenden will feature in the official tome celebrating The Queen’s 90th birthday

Wednesday 4th May 2016

24 � PEOPLE

Village’s star eventing team Today sees the start of The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials – the ‘FA Cup Final’ of eventing. Mayfield’s Tom Crisp is proud to be riding Irish gelding Coolys Luxury for Great Britain, and Hannah Patterson sits down with the 36 year old to find out what it’s like to go from local gymkhanas to international competitions THE substantial livery that is the headquarters of Tom Crisp’s Team Crisp Eventing is nestled away down a dirt road in Mayfield, East Sussex. It is so well hidden that you would have no idea it was there unless you looked for it – quite the achievement as the yard is extensive and covers over 60 acres of the surrounding countryside. It is here that Tom, his wife Sophie and their two young sons call home. The facility was originally owned by Sophie’s parents and together they all pooled their resources to run the business as it is today. When we ask Tom for the number of horses they have living with them, he laughs and says “Too many.” It’s one of these many horses in particular that we have come to talk about. The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials kick off today. The five-day equestrian extravaganza is one of only six four-star horse competitions in the world. “It’s the Formula One of eventing. Our Wimbledon or FA Cup final.” This year Tom returns to Badminton to compete

Wednesday 4th May 2016

with the 16.3hh bay gelding named Coolys Luxury, whom he lovingly refers to as Cooly, currently owned by The Swift Syndicate. Team Crisp has high hopes for Cooly this year, aiming for a top ten place at Badminton before competing in the Burghley Horse Trials. There is no naivety here, though. This is not his first visit to Badminton and competition is fierce. “It doesn’t take much to make an error when competing at this level,” he says. “These are some of the best horses and riders in the world.” So, what goes into selecting a horse to compete in events such as Badminton? “A lot of luck,” Tom says, “Good event horses come in all shapes and sizes but they have to be able to cope with immense amounts of pressure both mentally and physically. They must have the heart of a lion. No horse is the same and that is what has always kept me interested. “Cooly is a really wonderful horse. He’s exceptionally keen and loves his job. It is always such a pleasure to work with him.” Tom talks about horses in the same way a father

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Rupert Connell Partner, Office Head Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells

Two months out from the vote, the debate over the EU Referendum is gathering momentum and uncertainty surrounding the outcome will undoubtedly start to have some effect on the property market. Whilst this is likely to be more keenly felt in London, there is no doubt that any degree of uncertainty in the market can reduce activity levels. This being said, the fundamental demand and supply imbalance which characterises the whole UK market is unlikely to be altered whatever the outcome, although the market could be affected by any resultant slowdown in the UK economy. Despite the distracting referendum sideshow we are now entering the most active period of the calendar year for property transactions and, at Knight Frank, we have noticed a significant increase in the number of applicants registering, viewings across our portfolio of instructions and offers being submitted. We are also bringing more stock to the market as vendors realise that now is the best time to commit to sell their house. Realistic pricing is essential though and, all too often, we are seeing properties being launched to the market with over ambitious guide prices which inevitably leads to a long and fruitless marketing campaign. The market is becoming more polarised and it is now virtually impossible to attribute accurate price performance to a general area as specific geographical location and price band become key to determining price performance.

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Buyers are weary of overpricing which causes the market to slow as transaction levels drop as a result. For vendors serious about selling their property, now is a good time to take full advantage of the number of overpriced properties stagnating in the open market and launch at a realistic guide price. This will make them stand out from their competitors and will drive potential buyers towards them. If the appropriate number of viewings are generated, the market will dictate how well a property will perform and the best achievable price at that time will be achieved. The agent must drive the property to the market however, rather than wait for the market to come to them.

Knight Frank 01892 310997 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Wednesday 4th May 2016

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UNDER £350,000 A well-presented upper floor apartment in a purpose-built block with far-reaching views. There is an entrance hall, a generous reception room open-plan to the kitchen with

a good sized south-west facing balcony, two double bedrooms and a shower room. The apartment also benefits from stylish contemporary décor, communal gardens and an underground garage parking space. It is offered for sale leasehold, with a share of the freehold. CONTACT Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk

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great properties by price range… HERONS WAY, PEMBURY

£435,000

UNDER £450,000 A well-presented detached house in popular Pembury, close to the primary school. Recently extended to provide an entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, sun room and shower room/cloakroom on the ground floor and three bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor. Set at the head of a cul-de-sac, this family house also offers an attractive rear garden, off-road parking and an integral garage/store. CONTACT Barnes Kingsnorth Pembury 01892 822880 www.bkestateagents.com QUARRY BANK, TONBRIDGE

£795,000

UNDER £800,000 Modern detached house in walking distance of Tonbridge High Street and station. Recently adapted, it is very well presented. On the ground floor is an entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast/family room, cloakroom, conservatory and utility room. Upstairs there’s a master bedroom with en-suite, three further bedrooms and a bathroom, with two more bedrooms (one en-suite) on the top floor. It also has driveway parking, an integral garage and pretty gardens. CONTACT Barnes Kingsnorth Tonbridge 01732 771616 www.bkestateagents.com MAIDSTONE ROAD, ST MARY’S PLATT

RANTERS LANE GOUDHURST

£865,000

£575,000

UNDER £1MILLION

UNDER £600,000 A charming double-fronted semi-detached period property in a semi-rural location close to the edge of Kilndown. Extended and refurbished, and beautifully presented throughout, it offers a reception hall, sitting room, family room, kitchen/dining room, utility room and ground floor bedroom, with three bedrooms, one en-suite, and a

family bathroom on the first floor. It has lovely gardens with a useful outbuilding and studio, as well as off-road parking. CONTACT Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Part of a select modern development, the ground floor offers an entrance hall, study, cloakroom, dining room, sitting room, conservatory, kitchen/ breakfast room on the ground floor. Upstairs there’s a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, an en-suite guest bedroom, three more bedrooms and a bathroom. Plus a landscaped garden with woodland, a pitch and putt course, a swimming pool and a pool house. CONTACT Hamptons Sevenoaks 01732 280801 www.hamptons.co.uk

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Brenchley A wing of an attractive Edwardian family house Entrance hall, cloakroom, kitchen I breakfast room, sitting room, dining room, drawing room. Office, utility room, 2 storage rooms, play room. 5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bedroom 6 I study. Gardens and grounds. Paved terrace. Vegetable garden. Detached double garage with studio above. EPC rating G. In all about 0.84 acres.

Brenchley A substantial Edwardian family house on the edge of a popular village Entrance lobby, dining hall, cloakroom, inner hall, cellar, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room, drawing room, sitting room, oak-framed garden room. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom, shower room, study, office. Gardens and grounds. Paved terrace. Woodland. Tandem garage. Store room. Planning permission for ancillary accommodation. EPC rating E. In all about 6.37 acres.

Cowden A spacious family house in a beautiful setting and with huge potential Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, family room, kitchen, study, utility room, cloakroom, we. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 7 further bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, we. Extensive garaging. Outbuildings. Tennis court. Former swimming pool. EPe rating G. Garden and grounds extending to approximately 4.37 acres.

Blackham An attractive family house in a rural setting Entrance I dining hall, drawing room, sitting room, snug, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom suite, guest bedroom suite, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Double garage. Workshop. EPe rating D. Garden and land extending to approximately 11 acres.

Queens Road, Tunbridge Wells Attractive and substantial semi-detached Victorian villa Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room. Master bedroom suite with en suite shower room and nursery I study, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Integral garage. Off-street parking. Established rear garden. EPC rating F.

Manor Close, Tunbridge Wells A bright and spacious family home finished to an exceptional standard Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, garden room, utility room, cloakroom, boiler room. Master bedroom with en suite bath I shower room, 4 further bedrooms, family shower room, study. Established rear garden. Integral garage. EPC rating D. In all about 0.3 acres.

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Lovely rural outlook and landscaped gardens

AT A GLANCE LITTLE ACRES FORD LANE, TROTTISCLIFFE

T

HIS superb family house is set in the desirable village of Trottiscliffe, close to West Malling, and has the added benefit of excellent transport links. With delightful rural views, the detached property offers light and spacious accommodation. On the ground floor there is an entrance hall with a cloakroom, a double aspect sitting room, an additional family room with a wood-burning stove and a dining room. All of the rooms to the rear of the property give access, via double doors, to the rear terrace and garden. The kitchen/breakfast room has been recently refurbished by the current owners, with doors leading to a conservatory. A utility room and a cloakroom complete this floor. Upstairs, the double aspect master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and there is a further spacious bedroom suite with views over the rear garden. There are three further bedrooms, two of which have fitted wardrobes, and there is also a separate family bathroom. The property is approached from a lane via a shared driveway, leading to parking space and the integral double garage. The rear gardens have been beautifully landscaped, with a large expanse of lawn and an array of mature plants, shrubs and trees. There is a spacious terrace with a seating area and farreaching views across the Kent countryside.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

� Spacious family house � Desirable location � Rural views � Entrance hall � Cloakroom � Sitting room � Family room � Dining room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Conservatory � Utility room � Master bedroom with en-suite shower room � Guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom � Three further bedrooms � Family bathroom � Integral double garage and parking � Attractive rear garden

£995,000 For sale through Knight Frank Sevenoaks 01732 744477 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Crouch An attractive detached house with well-appointed accommodation Situated in a sought-after hamlet. Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom suite, 3 further double bedrooms, family bathroom. Established gardens. EPC rating E. In all about 0.12 acre.

St James's Road, Sevenoaks An excellent detached family house in excess of 2,800 sq ft Entrance hall, drawing room, sitting room, study, kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom suite, 3 first floor bedrooms, family bathroom, 2 second floor bedrooms, shower room. Attractive rear garden. EPC rating C. In all about 0.19 acre.

Within walking distance of the High Street, whilst effering a beautiful garden of o. 4 acres and rural views, this detached family home provides the best ef both worlds. Detached double garage and off road parking. Including a reception han kitchen, breakfast room, 4 receptions, study, laundry, cloak, 4 bedrooms, family bathroom and a shower room.

ÂŁ],650,00() Set back from the road and just 9.4 miles from the Ashford fast train. Extended and renovated to an immaculate standard. Period features and bespoke finishes. Handmade kitchen/breakfast room opens into a snug, reception han 3 receptions, bar, study, â&#x20AC;˘'- """ laundry, and 5 bedroom suites. In approx 2 .4 acres. __ ,- 'Outbuildings/garaging. Further 3.4 acres available.

Detached Grade ll Listed Farmhouse of some 3,759 sq. ft boasting a plethora of exposed timbers, Aga and good ceiling heights. 4 receptions with magnificent inglenooks, 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen/brealifast room, capacious cellarage and offices. Externally, mature gardens of approx. 1 .3 acres and 7. 7 acre paddock. Fabulous listed holiday cottage offering 867sqft, with kitchen/ brealifast room, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a shower room and a superbly presented open plan living area.

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A 16th-century former apple barn that beams with beauty

Wednesday 4th May 2016

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PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE THE BARN FEN POND ROAD, IGHTHAM � 16th-century barn conversion � Set in former grounds of Ightham Court � Character features � Lovely location � Vaulted reception hall � Dining hall � Kitchen/breakfast room � Utility room � Three ground floor bedrooms, one en-suite � Family bathroom � Galleried landing

T

HE BARN is an attractive character property believed to date from the 16th century. Once the apple store and piggery for the Ightham Court Estate, the property was converted to a residential home in 1993 and now provides well-proportioned accommodation. The established gardens and off-road position provide an attractive and private backdrop. Boasting a wealth of character features, including exposed timbers, stonework and vaulted ceilings, an oak front door flanked by a full-height window opens to the striking vaulted reception hall. Leading into the kitchen/breakfast room, with bespoke oak units by Chartwell and integrated appliances, the accommodation continues through to a dining room with a vaulted ceiling and York stone floor and doors to the garden. There are three bedrooms on the ground floor, comprising a guest room with en-suite shower room and two further

bedrooms served by a family bathroom. An attractive oak staircase rises to the galleried landing, which in turn leads to an impressive drawing room with a vaulted ceiling, brick hearth and wood-burning stove. The master bedroom is also on the first floor with bespoke fitted furniture and a modern en-suite shower room. The house is approached over a private driveway which leads through an electrically-operated gate. There is a parking area and detached garage with a home office above. The attractive gardens are mainly laid to lawn with well stocked beds and mature trees. A flagstone terrace is set to the rear of the house and provides an ideal area for al fresco entertaining. There is also a pond, vegetable garden, greenhouse and enclosed, part-walled garden. In all, The Barn lies in three quarters of an acre of land.

� First floor drawing room � Master bedroom with en-suite � Drive, parking area and detached double garage with home office over � Attractive private gardens � 0.7 of an acre

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

‘Once the apple store and piggery for the Ightham Court Estate’

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Goudhurst, Kent

Guide Price ÂŁ1.125m

Marden Station 5 miles, Paddock Wood station 7.5 miles, Cranbrook 6 miles, Tunbridge Wells 10 miles, Ashford International Station 23.5 miles. An attractive Grade II listed 16th Century village house with superb family accommodation Hall I Drawing room I Kitchen/dining room I Family/play room I Large walk-in pantry I Utility room I Boot room I Master bedroom with ensuite and dressing room Four further bedrooms Study I Family bathroom I Cellar I Off road parking I South facing rear garden.

Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker.corn

Kemsing, Kent

Guide price ÂŁ1. 775m

Otford station 2.4 miles, Sevenoaks 5.3 miles, Junction 3 M20/ M25/M26 3 miles A well-appointed country house situated in a glorious rural location in an elevated position enjoying far reaching southerly views and situated within magnificent gardens and grounds of 2 .2 acres Entrance hall I Reception hall I Drawing room I Dining room I Sitting room I Conservatory I Study I Kitchen/breakfast room I Utility room I Boot room I Cloakroom I Boiler room/rear lobby Seven bedrooms I Two en-suite bathrooms I Two family bathrooms I Substantial garage block providing parking for four cars with wine cellar and potential office over I Summer house

Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker.corn

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Converted stables lie in highly unusual hamlet

AT A GLANCE

SOUTH STABLES WICKHAM FARM, LEIGH � Pretty converted stables � Rarely found rural location � Set over a single storey � Character features � Superb views

S

ET in a charming elevated hamlet with farreaching rural views, this converted stable block is close to Leigh village and Hildenborough station. It boasts large gardens and beautifullypresented, bright accommodation This is a very special property in a rarely found setting – the hamlet of Wickhurst Farm is a community of houses that once formed a model farm in the Victorian era. Wickhurst Farm was sympathetically converted in the early 1990s and many of the residents have lived in the hamlet ever since, which is why homes here are not available very often. Other than the neighbours within the hamlet, the property is very secluded, surrounded by farmland and lovely countryside at the end of a long shared driveway. South Stables has an exceptional

Wednesday 4th May 2016

� Entrance hall with room for study area position within Wickhurst Farm. The house and main garden face south with stunning views. As a converted stables, it retains a huge amount of character, both inside and out. The single-storey property features a spacious entrance hall with room for a study area, a double aspect sitting/ dining room with an open fireplace, a bright kitchen/breakfast room, a utility room/cloakroom and a dual aspect master bedroom with a vaulted ceiling and French doors to the rear courtyard. There are also two further bedrooms and a family shower room. Each of the rooms benefits from spectacular views. The plot is approximately a third of an acre and has a pretty walled rear courtyard and a larger garden to the front, which is mainly laid to lawn. Additionally, there is a gravelled parking area and a wood store.

� Sitting/dining room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Utility room/cloakroom � Three bedrooms � Family shower room � Wood store � Gravel parking area

£900,000 For sale through Hamptons Sevenoaks 01732 280801 www.hamptons.co.uk

‘The property is very secluded, surrounded by farmland and lovely countryside’

we open doors for you ...

BarnesKingsnorth

NORTH TONBRIDGE

£750,000

SUPER FAMILY HOME WITH POTENTIAL. Ticking all the boxes this attractive detached house is located in a quiet cul-de-sac, close to delightful countryside yet within easy reach of local shops, schools and the MLS. The well planned accommodation offers 5 I 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms along with light & airy sitting room, spacious dining room and a stylish re-fitted kitchen/breakfast room. There is a utility room and integral double garage which could easily be adapted to provide further reception room, home office or even annexe accommodation. Outside there is a delightful, relaxing garden with plenty of space for children to play. NO CHAIN EPC: D Apply Tonbridge

CENTRAL TONBRIDGE

£280,000

CONTEMPORARY APARTMENT WITH RIVER VIEWS. Located just off the High Street this first floor apartment is ideal for the commuter being just a short walk from Tonbridge mainline station. The accommodation includes hall with useful storage cupboards, 2 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room along with the open plan, living room I kitchen area. The living room has a beautiful arched window, door to small balcony and the kitchen is fully fitted with integrated appliances. The property benefits from an allocated parking space, lift or stair access and entry phone system. NO CHAIN EPC: B Apply Tonbridge

PEMBURY

OIEO £385,000

CENTRAL VILLAGE LOCATION. A super Victorian family home with 3 bedrooms, period features and parking for several vehicles. Sitting room with fireplace opening to dining room, lovely kitchen/breakfast room overlooking the rear garden. Stylish family bathroom. NO CHAIN. EPC: D Apply Pembury

Q} Primelocatior

Residential

t i'rightmove.co.uk Sales & !Lettings

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

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Wadhurst £1,395,000 Situated along a private and highly regarded road with wonderful southerly views this well presented detached family house offers spacious accommodation and gardens of about0.75 acres. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells £1,395,000 A superb detached house situated at the head of a small cul-de-sac, adjoining and with views across fields with spacious accommodation including 6/7 bedrooms and a superb kitchen/breakfast room. EPC: C

Eridge Green £1,395,000 An outstanding Grade II Listed period farmhouse situated in a rural yet convenient location within about 0.25 miles ofEridge station with a spacious refurbished interior, stable block and about 4. 2 acres.

Wadhurst £975,000 An outstanding modern attached country house forming part of an attractive rural hamlet with light and spacious accommodation, wonderful gardens and use of a communal open meadow of about 2.5 acres. EPC: C

Bidborough £850,000 An individual detached house in a convenient location with views and well presented accommodation which includes a useful home office with an adjacent cloakroom, which could be converted to an annexe (subject to necessary consents). EPC D

Tunbridge Wells £795,000 An attractive detached period house situated along a popular residential road close to the grammar schools with 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, a garage and pretty gardens. EPC:E

Tunbridge Wells Office Sales. 01892 597607 I tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com

Mayfield ÂŁ895,000 A fine former Vicarage, probably dating from around 1910, situated towards the west side of this highly regarded and sought after historic village with both spacious and versatile accommodation which is now in need of some modernisation and wonderful private gardens. In all about 0. 7 acres. EPC: F

Heathfield ÂŁ1,250,000 A fine detached character house approached by a long private lane within wooded surroundings which has been substantially extended in keeping with the original style to provide superb accommodation in excess of 4,500 sq ft. In all about 0. 75 acres with a large area of woodland available by separate negotiation. EPC: E

Drl

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

KENT

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

KENT

Close to popular Pantiles area + 4 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + 2 reception rooms + study/ office + kitchen/breakfast room + driveway parking + Council Tax=G + EPC=E

Town centre location + 5 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + 2 reception rooms + courtyard garden + views of Grove Park + Council Tax=E + EPC=E

£6,500 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£3,000 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

HEATHFIELD,

WAD HURST,

EAST SUSSEX

EAST SUSSEX

Rural family home + 4 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms + kitchen/breakfast room + dining room + 2 bedroom annexe + swimming pool + jacuzzi + tennis court + Council Tax=G + EPC=D

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

£3,000 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£2,500 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

www.savills.eo.uk/fees.

SPELDHURST,

MATFIELD,

KENT

KENT

Barn conversion with annexe potential + 4 reception rooms + 3/4 bedrooms + 5 bath/shower rooms + garage + garden + paddocks + 3,084 sq ft + about 12.45 acres + EPC=D

Stylish home with 2 bed annexe + 4 reception rooms + kitchen/breakfast room + 5 bedrooms + garage + garden + 3,194 sq ft + about 1.60 acres + EPC: House=E, Annexe=G

Guide £1.5 million Freehold

Guide £1.395 million Freehold

FRANT,

Contact: Liz Devall

TICEHURST,

EAST SUSSEX

Contact: Liz Devall

EAST SUSSEX

First floor apartment in Grade II listed mansion + Frant MLS 1.8 miles + 2 reception rooms + 2 double bedrooms + garage + communal grounds + 1,241 sq ft

End-of-terrace over 55's bungalow + sought-after village + 2 reception rooms + 2 bedrooms + private terrace + communal gardens + en bloc garage + 926 sq ft + EPC=D

Guide £395,000 Leasehold

Guide £310,000 Leasehold

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

Moonlight Walk Remember • Celebrate • Donate

Contact: Becky Card

Contact: Becky Card

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AT A GLANCE

Enjoy a modern open-plan kitchen in a Victorian villa

FRANT ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Victorian villa n Sought-after location n Recently extended and refurbished n Period features n Contemporary styling n Beautifully presented n Entrance hall n Drawing room n Family room n Cloakroom n Impressive open-plan kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Cellar n Master suite with shower room n Four further bedrooms, one with en-suite bathroom n Family shower room n Off-road parking to the front n Deck, lawn and patio area to the rear n Summerhouse

T

HIS fine detached Victorian villa lies in the sought-after southern part of Tunbridge Wells and has been extended and refurbished to an exceptional standard while retaining much of its original character. A spacious and beautifully presented family home, it offers a delightful combination of traditional and contemporary styles. On the ground floor there is an entrance hall, a drawing room with bay window, a family room and a cloakroom. To the rear of the house is a superb open-plan kitchen/breakfast room with dining and sitting areas, ideal for modern family life. At one end there are wide sliding doors running the width of the room, and there is a lantern skylight above the kitchen area. The kitchen also has an extensive range of bespoke units with long marble work surfaces and a lengthy island unit, as well as a range of integrated appliances and a gas-fired Aga. A utility room completes the ground floor and there is a small cellar room below. Upstairs is an excellent principal bedroom suite with a wide bay window and a beautifully fitted shower room. Three further bedrooms are served by a second shower room, while bedroom five – which is set off bedroom four – has an en-suite bathroom and could make a perfect teenager’s suite. There is plenty of parking at the front of the house, and the rear has a wide decked terrace with steps to a lawn and paved patio. There’s also a summerhouse and it all lies in nearly a quarter of an acre.

n 0.25 of an acre

£1,699,900 For sale through Hamptons Tunbridge Wells 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

Wednesday 4th May 2016

‘A home with a delightful combination of traditional and contemporary styles’

Property

1

Independent Tunbridge Wells Your Property Specialists Newcomen Road

1 bedroom newly decorated apartment, Village location, shower room. Fees apply

£750pcm

Houses in the St James Area

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Mount Sion

2 bedroom top floor apartment in the town centre, ideal for sharers, fitted kitchen. Fees apply

Ground floor studio flat with private entrance, Village location. Fees apply

£950pcm

£550pcm

Molyneux Park Road

1 bedroom top floor flat in period building, kitchen/ breakfast room, residents' parking. Fees apply

Properties Needed!

In

Tunbridge Wells town centre

Coming Soon

www.tw-property.co.uk TW Property, 34 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1LU Sales: Tel 01892 530109 Lettings: Tel 01892 548049

e: sales@tw-property.co.uk e: lettings@tw-property.co.uk

1 bedroom ground floor apartment in the St Johns area, gas central heating. Fees apply

£675pcm Norman Road

1 bedroom split level flat, private entrance, gas central heating and double glazing. Fees apply

£695pcm

Glendale Court

1 bedroom purpose built flat in High Brooms, fitted kitchen, communal gardens. Fees apply

£650pcm

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The Old Dairy, Southborough, Kent Picture perfect Grade II listed detached house On one of Southborough's most sought after roads - sat proudly within its landscaped gardens occupying an idyllic rural position surrounded by rolling Kent countryside. An exceptionally picturesque outlook at the rear gives unspoilt far reaching views, over the weald, of the adjacent woodland and fields beyond as far as the eye can see. 17th Century period features• Four Double Bedrooms• Country kitchen • Separate Utility• Oak framed double garage• Pretty cottage garden and stunning views• Planning consent for single storey annex

Offers in Excess of £975,000 natalie@flyingfishproperties.co.uk 01892 514 189 I www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk

Applebrook, Collier Street, Kent Charming 4-bedroom period family home with 3 acres A delightful period family home set within a small hamlet. Arranged over 3 floors with 2,243 sq ft is brimming with character. Dating back to the 1640s the impressive inglenook fireplaces with an original bread oven gives nod to its probable origin as the Old Bakery. Four bedrooms• Two reception rooms with exposed brick inglenook fireplaces • Large double aspect kitchen/dining room • Master bedroom with oak fitted wardrobes • Double car port, garage and off street parking • Approx. 3 acres of mature gardens

Guide Price: £850,000 bradley@flyingfishproperties.co.uk 01892 514 189 I www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk

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PROPERTY SECTION �

Milk the views from adorable Old Dairy

AT A GLANCE

THE OLD DAIRY PENNINGTON ROAD, SOUTHBOROUGH � Beautiful Grade II listed detached house with 17th-century period features � Open plan sitting room/dining room � Country kitchen, utility room and cellar � Cloakroom

E

NJOY stunning views over the adjacent fields and woodland from The Old Dairy, a charming Grade II listed home which retains many 17th-century features and is located in one of Southborough’s most desirable roads. A canopied entrance door leads into a spacious double reception room with leaded windows and open fireplace with Jetmaster fire. Exposed beams separate the living and dining areas, with the latter having an inglenook fireplace and wood-burning stove. From here you enter the light, bright country kitchen which has double aspect windows, bespoke wooden cabinetry, a painted wooden central island, a gas Aga, electric oven, hob and a door to the courtyard. Next to this is a cloakroom and a large utility room with a butler sink and a cellar. The first floor has two large bedrooms

� 4 double bedrooms and additional room with fireplaces and beams, while a third bedroom, currently used as an office, could also be a nursery with its painted beams and sloping ceiling. There is a pretty bathroom and large shower room, which also has a wall of mirrored wardrobes and airing cupboard The second floor has sympathetically refurbished accommodation, with a fourth bedroom accessed through a room that could be a fifth bedroom or large dressing/storage area. Lovely landscaped gardens of around a quarter of an acre surround the house and include a York stone courtyard and wonderful working well. There is a detached outbuilding, an oak-framed double car port and off-road parking for at least three cars. Additionally, there is planning permission for a one-storey extension. Sale is subject to two small strips of land being sold off before completion.

� Shower room and separate bathroom � Cottage garden with far-reaching views � Double car port and off-road parking � Outbuilding and gardens of 1/4 acre � Planning consent for single storey annexe

Offers in excess of

£975,000 For sale through Flying Fish Properties, Southborough 01892 514189 www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk

‘The light, bright kitchen has bespoke wooden cabinetry and a painted wooden central island’ Wednesday 4th May 2016

Tunbridge Wells

Andrews >

andrewsonline.co.uk

Upper Grosvenor Road, TN1 2EJ Semi-detached period property already divided into three self-contained flats. offering two one bedroom flats and one studio. Energy Efficiency Rating: TBC

London Road, TN2 5BF Guide £300,000-£325,000 Looking to live in the heart of The Pantiles? Two bedroom apartment with open plan living and rooftop views. Notable features include en-suite bathroom with free standing bath, separate shower room and several storage areas. Energy Efficiency Rating: C

Linden Park Road, TN2 5QL Guide £365,000 Stroll to The Pantiles and enjoy the summer weather on the elevated veranda at this ground floor maisonette ... Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Upper Grosvenor Road, TN1 2DY £650pcm This one bedroom property is ideal for anyone working in the town centre or anyone who enjoys shopping with the Royal Victoria Shopping Centre being a mere 0.3 mile walk. Property benefits from double bedroom, kitchen with appliances and bathroom with shower over. The property is a 0.7 mile walk to the Royal Tunbridge Wells mainline station and if not commuting you can relax in Grosvenor Park only being 0.2 miles away. Energy Efficiency Rating: C

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

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/ Garden Road, Tonbridge

Guide Price £480,000 - £510,000 Cornwallis Avenue, Tonbridge

This charming and well presented three bedroom period built double fronted semi detached house is conveniently located for Tonbridge Station in a sought after road.

Hadlow Park, Hadlow

A charming four bedroom, three reception room, extended detached house located on the sought after Cornwallis Avenue located between Tonbridge and Hadlow.

Guide Price £850,000 - £900,000 Argyle Road, Southborough

Set within the grounds of the exclusive and private Hadlow Park is this superb detached family home which has the additional potential of a self-contained Annexe offering exceptionally flexible living accommodation for the growing family.

OIEO £700,000

Guide Price £400,00 - £425,000

Offering stunning views, character and warmth is this two bedroom apartment with garden, part of a conversion of this stunning period built property in a Cul-De-Sac location.

� PROPERTY SECTION

The former music museum Finchcocks could be yours

F

AMED as a highly regarded musical museum and considered to be one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Kent, magnificent Finchcocks, near Goudhurst, is being offered for sale. The Grade I listed property belongs to international concert pianist and historic keyboard collector Richard Burnett and his wife Katrina, who opened it to the public 40 years ago and are now retiring. The house is set deep within beautiful grounds and lies a mile from the road, approached over a long private lane flanked by rolling farmland. It has remained remarkably unchanged since it

Wednesday 4th May 2016

was built in the early 18th century and features elegant and spacious rooms, a self-contained three-bedroom staff flat and substantial barrelvaulted cellar used formally as the ‘Cellar Restaurant’. In all the internal accommodation amounts to about 16,800 sq ft. Period features include high ceilings, fine oak panelling, oak flooring, sash windows with working shutters and a number of impressive fireplaces. The grand central reception hall has oak doors with panelled wainscotting to either end, an outstanding fireplace and a sweeping staircase rising to a galleried first floor landing.

Four generously proportioned reception rooms all enjoy wonderful views over the gardens and parkland, and the substantial kitchen is equipped with an oil-fired Aga. There is also an adjacent catering kitchen, utility room and scullery. Principal and secondary staircases lead to the first floor where there are four bedrooms, a library and two cloakrooms. Over the second and third floors there are eight further bedrooms, two bathrooms, a sitting room, a further kitchen and a tank room. Within the grounds lie several Grade II listed buildings, including The Coach House, which

incorporates offices on the ground floor and a four-bedroom first floor flat, and The Barn, which provides an ample reception/music room, fully-fitted kitchen/breakfast room, two bedrooms and two bath/shower rooms. The glorious gardens and grounds extend to about 13 acres. Wide gravel paths wind through manicured lawns with an array of specimen trees, an avenue of ancient lime trees, deep borders and an orchard. A pathway skirts around the most prominent feature, a walled garden and ha-ha, both also having been designated a Grade II listing.

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PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE � Magnificent Georgian manor house � Original period features � Grade I listed � Central reception hall � Drawing room � Garden room � South wing reception room � Dining room � Kitchen � Catering kitchen � Utility room � Scullery � Pantry � Two ground floor cloakrooms � Self-contained ground floor staff flat with three bedrooms � Galleried landing � Four first floor bedrooms � Library � Two first floor cloakrooms � Further eight bedrooms over the second and third floors � Two bathrooms � Second floor kitchen � Third floor sitting room � Superb vaulted cellars with wine cellar and bar area � Detached two-bed barn � Four-bed coach house flat � Formal gardens with Grade II listed walled garden and ha-ha � Grounds of 13 acres

In excess of £3,000,000 For sale through Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.co.uk

FINCHCOCKS GOUDHURST

IN EXCESS OF

£3,000,000 Wednesday 4th May 2016

DESPERATELY SEEKING PROPERTY We have the following clients who need to find property quickly as they are under offer. If you can help, please contact us for a free, no obligation market appraisal on your property. Sparrows Green • 2 Bedroom Detached House • Peaceful Location • Exce llent Prese ntation

MR&MRS M

£425,000

3 bedroom property in Tunbridge Wells up to £680,000

• Scope to Create Third Bed, STPP • Off Road Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Tunbridge Wells • 4 Bedro oms • 2 Bathroo ms • Low Ma intenance Garden

£2,600 PCM • Ava ilabl e July • Energy Efficiency Rating: D • Age nt's Fees Apply

MR & MRS B 3 bedroom property with off road parking and garden in Pembury/ Tunbridge Wells up to £475,000

MR& MRS P 4 bedroom property in Bidborough up to £650,000

MR&MRS M Tunbridge Wells • Exte nded 4 bed Semi Detached House • Loft Co nve rsion • GCH/Part Doubl e Gl az ing

£475,000 • GCH/Part Doubl e Glazing • On Street Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: E

4 bedroom property in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas up to£1.2m

Tunbridge Wells

MRSC

• 3 Bedrooms • Kitchen/ Dining Roo m • Good Sized Rea r Garde n

£1,600 PCM • Ava ilable July • Energy Efficiency Rating: D • Age nt's Fees Apply

2 bedroom flat in central Tunbridge Wells up to £340,000

MR&MRS M 3/4 bedroom house in central Tunbridge Wells up to £525,000

MRSR 1/2 bedroom garden apartment up to £300,000

Tunbridge Wells • 2 Bed Duplex Apartm ent • High Quality Refurbishm ent • New Kitchen & Bathroo ms

If you have already instructed an agent on a sole agency basis, please check the terms and conditions in order to avoid the potential liability of having to pay two sets of fees.

£269,995 • GFCH, Private Entrance • On Street Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: B

Tun bridge Wells Office I 01892 511211 tun bridgewel ls @wooda ndpi lcher.co.u k Southborough Office 01892 511311 south boroug h @woodandpilcher.co.u k

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Tunbridge Wells • Spacious Studi o • Close To Ma inline Stati on • So ught Afte r Location

£650 PCM • Ava ilabl e Now • Energy Efficiency Rating: D • Agent's Fees Apply

Other offices in Crowborough, Heathfield, Tonbridge & associated London Branch

Intermediate Cup Final Tunbridge Wells RFC v St Benedicts RUFC

TWICKENHAM 7th May 2016

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� PROPERTY SECTION

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Superb Edwardian family house with garden office

T

HE COACH HOUSE is a beautifully presented Edwardian family house understood to date from 1901 and offering light and versatile accommodation. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the property lies around one and a half miles north of popular Goudhurst. With plenty of period features, points of note include high ceilings to the majority of rooms, exposed wood flooring to the reception rooms, a bespoke Bath stone fireplace to the drawing

room, travertine flooring to the kitchen and stylishly appointed bathrooms with underfloor heating. The ground floor features a reception hall, a dining room, a family room, a double aspect drawing room, a utility room and a cloakroom. The kitchen/breakfast room is comprehensively fitted with hand-painted cupboards and integrated appliances, including an Aga. Five attractive first floor bedrooms are served by two stunning bathrooms refitted in 2012. Three of

the bedrooms enjoy views over the garden and the majority benefit from built-in wardrobe cupboards or eaves storage. The Coach House is approached over a shared driveway which leads to a paved courtyard with parking for a number of cars and access to an attached double garage. The garden lies to the rear, where a substantial terrace spans the length of the house. Steps lead to the expansive lawn with mature hedging to the perimeter and an excellent detached garden office.

AT A GLANCE

THE COACH HOUSE BALLARDS HILL, GOUDHURST � Beautifully presented Edwardian house � Reception hall � Drawing room � Dining room � Family room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Utility room � Cloakroom � Five bedrooms � Two bathrooms � Parking and double garage � Garden office � Attractive garden

£1,075,000 For sale through Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 4th May 2016

'Secret Agent' Carol Prier

Favourite local place? Surrounding orchard walks Tunbridge Wells Jazz evenings

What has been your favourite holiday? Taking a motor home across the Canadian Rockies

My daughters' weddings Hannah &

\

f

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BIG SMILES Mark Sparrow at the Tunbridge Wells branch

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61

Don’t ever break the chain It was all smiles at Wood & Pilcher after the independent estate agent successfully completed a three-property chain managed entirely by their offices in Tunbridge Wells, Southborough and Tonbridge. “It’s not impossible but it is extremely rare to have every property in a chain managed by the same agency,” says sales manager, Mark Sparrow. “This is a first for me here.” Wood & Pilcher first opened its doors in 1981 and quickly turned itself into a leading independent agent with offices in Tunbridge Wells, Southborough, Crowborough, Heathfield and Tonbridge covering both the major towns and surrounding villages. It is this coverage of Kent and East Sussex that Mr Sparrow believes contributed to forming a chain of buyers who all found their dream properties through Wood & Pilcher.

Showcase your home at the Spring Property Exhibition in London On 12th May Freeman Forman is exhibiting at the Spring Property Exhibition, at the Millennium Hotel, Mayfair, a one stop event for property buyers looking to move from London to the countryside.

of our local area and the community, discuss what property hunters can buy for their money, schooling, transport links as well as the local amenities and the lifestyle on offer.

The Spring Property Exhibition has been arranged by long established London and Country estate agent John D Wood & Co., with which Freeman Forman is associated and will be open from 12pm till 6pm.

Nicholas Taylor, Sales Director of John D Wood & Co. comments “This is an ideal opportunity to present your property to motivated London buyers actively looking to purchase in the country.

Freeman Forman will be one of 16 estate agents from different areas across the South of England present at the exhibition where a wide selection of properties from houses with excellent commuting links, cottages, farmhouses, town houses, conversions and country houses will be featured.

Many Londoners decide to swap their home in the Capital for one within an easy commute or further into the countryside for lifestyle change, to downsize, more closer to family and the holiday homes market is still active.

The event is being hosted for those thinking of moving to the country who wish to enquire about numerous regions in one place without having to commit to spending weekends exploring huge swathes of the country. The event is free to attend and there is no need to register. Our expert staff will be at the exhibition to explain the attractions

PROPERTY n

This exhibition is an ideal place for time-poor Londoners to focus their property search on a specific area and to forge a face to face relationship with local estate agents as well as for Freeman Forman to meet and register new motivated buyers”. For further information about the Spring Property Exhibition please contact Ed Rawson at Freeman Forman on 01892 615757.

Statistics have indicated that one in three chains break down. “A chain can break down for any number of reasons,” Mr Sparrow says, “A mortgage application may fall through, a buyer could lose interest or find another property, or the chain could be badly managed.” So, what is the secret that made this property chain so successful? “When an agent is managing every aspect of the same chain the experience improves for all involved. As an agent, when you are dealing with your own colleagues, there’s a pre-established trust meaning no politics, games or misleading information. It is that openness between agents that means a chain can be professionally and efficiently managed. Any issues can be identified and dealt with easily when you trust the other agents involved. Communication is key.”

Title held in local triathlon Another great success at the 42nd Sevenoaks Triathlon as George Berry, Knight Frank Sevenoaks Office Head, was delighted to be able to present one of his colleagues, Tom Wade, with the winner’s trophy for a second year in a row. Quite an achievement! Tom successfully defended his title in a time of 1 hour, 21 minutes and 15 seconds. He said, “It was certainly a bigger build up for me to this increasingly competitive, early season triathlon, that is incredibly well run and in such a beautiful setting. It was great to come away with the win but the real bonus was the fantastic weather”.

hour, 34 minutes and 37 seconds. Congratulations, also, to all at the Sevenoaks Tri-Club who organise and run this very popular event, where the places sell out within hours of entries opening, with great efficiency each year to make it a great success for all the competitors who take part. CHAMPION Knight Frank employee Tom Wade wins again

Also taking part on this perfect bright and sunny Sunday morning, with an improved time from last year, were Edward Rook and Tilly Wilson, who are based in the Sevenoaks office, and formed the Knight Frank All-Stars relay team as well as local girl Kate Horton, who competed individually to shave over 4 minutes off her previous record. No mean feat over an 800m swim, 25km bike ride and 8km run in the hilly Kent countryside. Knight Frank also presented a prize to the fastest local athletes, with Kirandeep Marsh just winning the fasted local female by a whisker (0.18 of a second) in a time of 1 hour, 45 minutes and 48 seconds and Hugh Gibbs winning the fastest local male event in a time of 1 hour, 30 minutes and 8 seconds. Hannah Ewens, who is a member of Crystal Palace Tri-Club, rose to the challenge by winning the women’s event in the commendable time of 1

Wednesday 4th May 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

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Charming listed Georgian ‘castle’ sited on Southborough Common

F

ORMING the major portion of a beautiful Georgian house built in the last years of the 18th century, Cats Castle presents in fine order throughout with elegant proportions and many features typical of the period. Occupying a wonderful position on Southborough Common, it overlooks the poular village cricket pitch to the front and woodland to the rear. The property has a fascinating history, with parts of it having been used as a carpentry workshop and a school over the years. One feature not typical of houses of the period, but nonetheless understood to be original, is the integral workshop, which is now used as a garage and utility area. The rest of the ground floor comprises an entrance hall, a cloakroom, a sitting room with bay window and fireplace, a dining room and an impressive kitchen/breakfast room. There are two staircases to the first floor. Upstairs, there are four good sized bedrooms, one with a shower, as well as a family bathroom and a fifth bedroom or family room. A study together with useful eaves storage lie on the second floor. Externally, there is a patio, terrace and private parking area.

AT A GLANCE

CATS CASTLE CHURCH ROAD, SOUTHBOROUGH � Grade II listed Georgian house � Major portion of a larger property � Outstanding position � Views across cricket pitch � Woodland to the rear � Fascinating history � Period features � Entrance hall � Cloakroom � Sitting room � Dining room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Integral garage/workshop/utility room � 4/5 bedrooms � Family bathroom � Terrace and patio

‘The property has a fascinating history, with parts of it having been used as a carpentry workshop as well as a school’ Wednesday 4th May 2016

� Private parking

£895,000 For sale through Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.com

LAND & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have identified the need to increase the amount of housing planned for its administrative area as commissioned in a recent report.

Sites exercise. Sites will be assessed for their suitability under a process known as Strategic Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (SH ELAA).

The requirement for 12,960 houses (648 per year) has been identified by The Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) in Tunbridge Wells between 2013-2033.

If you own land within the Borough and would be interested in having it promoted for potential development, please contact us. The deadline for submissions is 1 August 2016.

As a result of this housing need, Tunbridge Wells are now inviting submissions to identify sites within the Borough as part of a Call for

SALES & LETTINGS

jackson-stops.co. uk Jackson-Stops & Staff - - - - - -

Dormans Park A CLASSICALLY PROPORTIONED VICTORIAN HOME OF GREAT CHARACTER WITHIN A SOUGHT-AFTER PRIVATE ESTATE SET WITHIN SOUTH FACING ESTABLISHED MATURE GARDENS OF ABOUT 0.8 ACRES Entrance Porch, Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Drawing Room , Dining Room, Study, Family Room , Wonderful Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Utility Room & Pantry, Master Bedroom with Walk-In Wardrobe & Well Appointed En Suite Bathroom , Guest Bedroom with Jack & Jill Bathroom , 4 Further Bedrooms & 2 Further Bathrooms, Linen Room , Basement Rooms (currently a Gym), Detached Double Garage, Range of Timber & Brick Outbuildings, Secluded Gardens & Grounds totalling 0.8 of an acre. EPC Rating E Guide Price £1,950,000

Bough Beech A LUXURY 5 BEDROOM CHARACTER DETACHED FAMILY HOME AMIDST 17 ACRES WITH AN ADDITIONAL 5 ACRE PADDOCK Reception Hall, Drawing Room , Dining Room , Study, Bespoke Kitchen/Family Room, Utility Room , Cloakroom, Master Suite, 4 Further Bedrooms, 4 Further Bath/Shower Rooms (3 En Suite), Double Garage, Gardens and Grounds including Pond , Woodland and Field Extending to 6.7 acres. Ready For Occupation. Guide Price £1,750,000

People Property Places

Oxted 01883

712 375

oxted@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

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High quality Wealden home has hand-built kitchen

Wednesday 4th May 2016

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Tunbridge Wells £2,200 Stunning 3 bedroom garden apartment with a private terrace which has been recently developed and been finished to a high standard.

Penshurst £9,995 Set in the beautiful village of Penshurst, this characterful 10 bedroom country house offers expansive accommodation set amidst marvellous landscaped gardens and grounds together with swimming pool, tennis court and superb equestrian facilities.

Tunbridge Wells £3,250 A truly stunning 5 bedroom family home set over three floors and situated opposite the highly sought after Claremont Primary school, just a few minutes walk to the main line station and the town centre.

Tunbridge Wells £2,750 This excellent 4 bedroom detached family house, built by Millwood Designer Homes in 2004, has a well arranged interior layout that is light and spacious and well presented throughout.

Tunbridge Wells Office Lettings 01892 597609

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Available with a range of incentives* to help make your dream move happen Prices from ÂŁ999,995

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CALL 01892 628 676 CALA.CO.UK

TWT04MAY "Availability of other incentives/offers subject to lender's criteria and CALA's discretion. Our range of incentives are not all available in one purchase, they represent a choice of incentives and cannot be used in conjunction with each other and are available on selected plots only. Visit cala.co.uk/terms for full terms and conditions and purchasing criteria. Telephone calls within the British Isles will be charged at local rate. Telephone calls may divert to a mobile service in which case call charges may vary. Prices are accurate at time of going to print.

� PROPERTY SECTION

Luxurious new build in the heart of the Weald

WEALD HOUSE HEATHFIELD ROAD BURWASH WEALD

£780,000

W

EALD HOUSE is a most appealing detached residence – one of a pair of fabulous newly built properties in Burwash Weald, East Sussex. Constructed with partially-clad elevations under a pitched tiled roof, the property affords many low maintenance features and has Ecodan air-sourced central heating with individually zoned underfloor heating to the ground floor. The property has been finished to an extremely

Wednesday 4th May 2016

high standard with luxury sanitary ware and a hand-built kitchen. It features Amtico floor coverings and carpets throughout. The ground floor accommodation comprises a deep storm porch, a generous reception hall, a cloakroom, a sitting room with bay window and fireplace, and a dining room/study. There is an impressive kitchen/breakfast/family room with a high quality fitted kitchen including integrated Neff appliances and a central oak-topped island

unit. The open-plan vaulted family area is a great feature of the house and has a triple aspect with windows to the side, bifold doors to the rear and double doors accessing a paved area to the front. A utility room completes the ground floor. On the first floor, the master bedroom has a bay window to the front with fine views and a superb en-suite bathroom. The guest bedroom has an en-suite shower room and there are two further bedrooms on this floor, both served by a family

bathroom. The second floor has a spacious and attractive landing area and two further bedrooms, with Velux windows and eaves storage. To the front of the property is a detached double garage clad in timber. The house enjoys a generous area of south-facing lawn in the front which extends to the side, where there is also a large seating area paved in Indian stone. To the rear of the property there are further areas of lawn, raised beds and a seating area.

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

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PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE n Attractive new build family house n One of two n Semi-rural location with views n Finished to a high standard n Set over three floors n Air-sourced central heating n Storm porch n Entrance hall n Cloakroom n Sitting room n Dining room/study n Kitchen/breakfast/family room n Utility room n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom n Guest bedroom with en-suite shower n Four further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Detached double garage and parking area n Garden to front, side and rear with seating areas

£780,000 For sale through Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

‘The open-plan vaulted family area is a great feature… it has a triple aspect with windows to the side, bifold doors to the rear and double doors to the front’ Wednesday 4th May 2016

NEW VIEW HOME OPENING DAY 14TH MAY

JOIN US FOR THE LAUNCH OF OUR NEW VIEW HOME Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th May 10am to 5pm Two, three and four bedroom family homes in a woodland setting. Available now from £350,000. Knights Wood, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3UW

ONE HOUR PRE-LAUNCH EVENT • Play 'Street Cricket' with the Kent Spitfires • Meet the Team • Summer Refreshments • Preview the View Home

FRIDAY 13TH MAY 5PM TO 6PM 01892 800 580

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PEOPLE �

73

are bound for Badminton… would talk about his children. “By all accounts, they are upping COOLYS CATCH-UP There is a very genuine love their game there this year. The evident when you watch him cross-country course has certainly Breed: amongst them. It would be easy been developed technically from ISH, Ireland to assume that Tom had always what can be seen in the been around horses from the preparation videos. 16.3hh, bay, gelding day he was born. “But no matter what happens, it’s Age: 14 “Not at all,” he says. “We had truly an honour to be there and Sire: Olympic Lux no horses when I was very representing the country. Nothing Dam: Tell Me Sunshine young. The first we bought lived beats that feeling. (Glen Bar) in the bottom of our garden “It’s a lifelong dream to participate where we had one stable. I was and it’s thanks to everyone involved Owner: The Swift Syndicate, c/o always interested in these in Team Crisp Eventing, along with Team Crisp, Mayfield, East Sussex magnificent creatures. They have The Swift Syndicate, Swift Bedding, In 2013 Coolys completed his first had a significant relationship Ssanyong Motors UK, Baileys Horse four-star at Pau with Tom Crisp with us throughout history Feed and Voltaire Horse Saddles.” – from farming to war, they’ve The Badminton Horse Trials are always worked with us.” not all that await Team Crisp in 2016. Moving from an interest in horses to eventing was a Tom has every intention to return to Burghley with natural evolution for Tom, who is competitive by his Cooly to achieve yet another high rank on the own admission. He played rugby when he was young four-star eventing circuit. and competed in gymnastics from five to 13. It is “We’ll give Cooly a break first, of course. He’ll perfectly clear talking to him that he is a driven man. deserve a reward,” says Tom. After starting his eventing career participating in And how do you reward a horse that has just local gymkhanas with his father leading him around competed in one of the most prestigious horse trials the courses, Tom sometimes appears surprised that he in the world? is now representing Great Britain in four-star events. “Apples, carrots and some time in the fields. But But last year’s Badminton did not go to plan – either eventing horses are unlike any other. They’re eager to for him or Cooly. During the dressage it became work. If you leave them turned out for too long they evident that there was a problem, and after discovering become restless. an abscess in Cooly’s foot they had to withdraw from “So it’s a quick break then straight back to it.” the competition and save him for another day. Tom is not disheartened, even though Badminton The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials run has ‘beefed-up’ the courses this year in order to push from Wednesday May 4 to Sunday May 8. both the riders and their horses to the brink.

‘No matter what happens, it’s an honour to be there and representing the country. Nothing beats that feeling ’ HIGH HOPES Tom Crisp at Team Crisp Eventing in Mayfield

Wednesday 4th May 2016

74 � FOOD AND DRINK

Treat your tastebuds to a weekend of feasting and Tonbridge is hosting its first Food and Drink Festival later this month. Eileen Leahy spoke to its organiser about why now is the right time for the market town to showcase the many specialist producers it boasts, and previews the delicious delights visitors can sip and savour during the weekend of May 20 and 22 IN A COUPLE of weeks’ time Tonbridge will be transformed into a food lover’s paradise. Craft beer tents will be pitched and specialist stalls laid out with all manner of gourmet goodies in the grounds of the town’s historic 11th-century Castle. Proceedings kick off on Friday night at 5pm with a fiesta-style opening which includes live music and plenty of pop-up bars and cafés to quench thirsts and satisfy any hunger pangs. At 9am the following day the festival begins in earnest with a raft of independent producers showcasing their individual wares. Most are sourced from the local area, but there will be national and international offerings, too. From this corner of the country visitors can expect to savour anything from Traditional Kent Hog Roast Pulled Pork to pear ciders and homemade chutneys. But there will also be lots of other delicious bites from further afield, including slices of flaky Turkish baklava, piquant cured meats from Spain, indulgent American-style traybakes and fragrant Italian fruit liqueurs. The event’s organiser, Paul Kennedy from Marketsquare Group, says he chose Tonbridge for a number of reasons. “We ran a successful food market

Wednesday 4th May 2016

event in Sevenoaks and then one in The Pantiles and saw how great Kentish produce is,” says Paul who works all over the country. “Tonbridge is also a good location and it’s up and coming. It also has a strong community who were keen to work with us.” This was spearheaded by the collective known as Tonbridge Town Team. As soon as they heard Paul was eyeing up the market town as a possible venue they wanted to get on board – but on one condition. “The stipulation was that a good variety of local producers had to be represented,” Paul explains. “We have a number of people who tour with us around the UK to different locations, but the fact is we like to pick up on regional product wherever possible and Tonbridge seemed to have plenty of it.” Since its regular Farmers’ Markets started five years ago, Tonbridge has definitely become more foodie orientated with a number of cool eateries, artisan coffee shops and bakeries opening up on the high street, as well as a host of both traditional traders and independent ones cropping up in the area. This new home-grown gastro focus chimes perfectly with Paul’s food philosophy: “I always think it’s better to work at grass roots level.

MARKET VALUE There will be plenty of quality produce on offer

A SLICE OF HISTORY Tonbridge Castle

FOOD AND DRINK 

75

wonderful fine wine

Savour the handmade deli delights “I’m more interested in what’s going on with the restaurant scene somewhere rather than drafting in a lot of celebrity chefs to help promote an event. “As an events group we offer a few incentives for people to be there that will improve their

business prospects. That could be a reduced stall price or helping out with additional equipment. “For us it’s far preferable to help those who are rearing their own animals or farming organically than it is to aid someone who has bought all their items wholesale. “You make independents feel wanted, give good prices and if you feel their product is worth having but they don’t have the experience or the resources we can support them. You certainly won’t see any burger vans or candy floss stalls at our markets.” What you will see over the weekend of May 20 to 22 is over 50 stalls selling delicious indigenous Kentish food, beers and fresh seasonal goodies plus a variety of global inspired cuisine. There will also be cooking demonstrations to enjoy, and to complete the fabulous foodie experience people will have the chance to browse stalls selling kitchen equipment and cool condiments, too. So how many people are expected to visit Tonbridge’s inaugural Food and Drink Festival? “Numbers are always weather dependent but we’re aiming for at least 5,000 people over the weekend,” confirms Paul.

Indulge in some freshly baked bread

Visitors can pick and mix produce

‘Tonbridge is a good location and it’s up and coming. It also has a strong community who were keen to work with us’ He hopes the event will bring in people from across the district and even the capital. “Tonbridge is within striking distance of London, so visitors should come along from there,” he says. “There is an active element to Tonbridge,” Paul concludes. “Its people are good at getting involved, and coupled with the fact the area has some wonderful produce and the location for the market is in the perfect setting of an historical castle, we’ll put on a really good show and give visitors a great day out.”

Olives are a taste sensation

Wednesday 4th May 2016

ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL

An exciting new addition to Tunbridge Wells,

One Warwick Park is set to open this summer! Having undergone an extensive redevelopment this contemporary venue promises to be Royal Tunbridge Wells' most luxurious hotel.

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You could be ONE of the first to stay at One Warwick Park Hotel Not only will you stay overnight in one of our beautiful, individually styled suites, but the prize also includes an evening meal for two in our brand new restaurant, L'AMORE, a bottle of our house champagne Louis Roederer, a delicious cooked breakfast the following morning plus Temple Spa amenities .

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Contact us on: 0 I 892 552 590 I info@onewarwickpark.co.uk www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

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

WITH THE

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

NO place like home? From the challenges of the school run to the long haul of the summer holidays, the large family car must cater for all your needs – whether it’s a 4x4, people carrier or hybrid. We’re talking more than just a way to get around, it’s a way of life, your home on wheels. We look at the leaders in a competitive market place…

 ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA 

Alfa Romeo has a long and proud lineage, based on the Italian sense of style in design and innovative engineering. The new Giulietta carries on that baton successfully PAGE 79

 AUDI A4 ALLROAD 

The four-wheel drive transmission has been radically altered to make the car lighter, more fuel efficient, and friendlier to the environment. PAGE 83

Wednesday 4th May 2015

78 n MOTORING

Model shown is New Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB 120 hp at £18,975 OTR incl. Stromboli Grey Special Paint at £525. Range of official fuel consumption figures for the Alfa Giulietta range: Urban 29.7 - 60.1 mpg (9.5 - 4.7 lj100km); Extra Urban 54.3-88.3 mpg (5.2 - 3.2 l/100km); Combined 41.5 - 74.3 mpg (6.8 - 3.31/100km). C0 2 emissions 157- 99 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO, figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real -life driving conditions. 'Customer deposit is £1,559. Optional Final Payment is £5,593. Contract Term is 48 months. Promotion available on New Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB 120 hp at £18,975 OTR registered between 1st April and 30th June 2016. Alfa Deposit Contribution only available in conjunction with Alfa Romeo Preferenza PCP. With Alfa Romeo Preferenza 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 6p per mile for exceeding 6,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. At participating Dealers only. Alfa Romeo Financial Services, PO BOX 4465, Slough, SL! ORW. We work with a number of creditors including Alfa Romeo Financial Services.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

MOTORING 

FIRST DRIVE

79

ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA

FACTS AT A GLANCE PRICE: £22,300 (optional Lusso pack £2,650)

PERFORMANCE: Top speed 121mph, 0-62mph – 10.2secs

ENGINE: 1598 cc

ECONOMY: Combined 74.3 mpg

TRANSMISSION: Semi-automatic

By David Thacker WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT? Alfa Romeo has a long and proud lineage, based on the Italian sense of style in design and innovative engineering. The new Giulietta carries on that baton successfully and with a model range of 16 it has most bases covered from price point to greenest and on to fastest.

LOOKS AND PRACTICALITY My model for the day is the TCT Super with the 1.6 diesel engine producing 120hp coupled to Alfa DNA transmission. This gives a choice of three driving modes: D (dynamic for optimum performance), N (natural for greater fuel economy) and A (all-weather), which will make you look as if you know what you’re doing in snowy and slippery conditions. Visually, the front is functional and distinctive, with two swage lines over the bonnet to the top of the triangular grille casting beautiful shadow lines that only serve to fashion the sporting heritage. This model has the Lusso pack, basically an upgraded

interior, but what an upgrade! The most stunning hand-stitched red leather seats – these cows must have been pampered to be this luxurious. The rear seating is a little tight for legroom so not suited for six-footers, but ideal for a young family. The boot is a useful size – it’s large enough for a pushchair or set of suitcases and moving the seat backs (which have 60/40 split) forward is easy; just a pull of the handle at the top of the seat and the swab stays in place, leaving a reasonably long area with raised, sloping section to increase the boot capacity.

BEHIND THE WHEEL So off we go in N mode; it’s surprisingly sprightly, although you do get the feeling there is a little old lady passing petrol tokens from her purse to the engine one at a time, and when stopped at lights she takes over and turns off the engine for fuel economy. But in D mode she leaves you to it – there is a sense of joie de vivre. It becomes eager and more responsive. Combined with the semi-automatic paddle shift gearbox it’s much more fun to drive. Its cornering is truly

amazing –it reacts as if on rails. It has so much grip it’s like trying to drag a cat over a carpet, but the cat just hangs on and on and won’t let go. In actual fact, the electronics have it all under control so don’t fight it. At motorway speeds the stability and sure-footedness belie its light weight (only 1300kg) and I am surprised at how relaxed the journey has become. The little 1.6 diesel has a bunch of torque in the lower rev range where you need it, making for a relaxed engine and not at all buzzy, coupled with sensible gear ratios to make motorway journeys more pleasurable. Excellent fuel economy (74.3 combined mpg) and CO2 emissions low enough to escape road tax altogether makes this a friend of your wallet as well as the planet.

EMISSIONS: 99 (g/km)

‘Alfa Romeo has a long, proud lineage… the new Giulietta carries on that baton successfully’

VERDICT To my mind the Giulietta is a beautiful little car – fresh up to the minute Italian styling, a well thought out power train together with fantastic handling. This is no Italian Lothario but a young lively Italian mistress full of life – and is definitely worth getting to know a little better.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

80 n MOTORING Our premises are lacated at Kingstanding Way Business Park in Tunbridge Wells. We invite all new and seasoned enthusiasts to visit us today to find out more about our classic car restoration services. We will use our experience to advise you on the best way to restore your classic, vintage or collectible car, and help you to revive its past glories.

• Fram full graund up restaratian ta summer check aver • Specialist mig and tig welding Full engine and gearbax rebuilds • We can lacate hard ta find parts, • In hause machining facilities • Vapaur blasting • Everything yau need ta care far yaur classic car ... • Baak yaur mDT anline ,--~

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Contact details: H-Engineering Unit 12, 2, Kingstanding Way, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UP 01892 549 042

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INTRODUCING THE FORD ECOSPORT A dynamic SUV featuring many advanced technologies

FORDECOSPORTZETEC SOR 1.0 ECOBOOST

- £235* PER MONTH - £235 DEPOSIT TO INCLUDE - AUPGRADE WINTER PACK - £199 Lifesty/;(ciord Your journey starts here

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Offi cia l f ue l consumpti o n fi gures in mpg (11100km) for t he Ford Kuga range: urban 30.4 (9.3) - 52.3 (5.4 ), extra urban 45.6 (6.2) - 65.7 (4.3), combined 38.2 (7.4) - 60.l (4.7) . Offi cia l CO, em issio ns 17l-l 22g/km . The mpg f igures 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 f inance period of 37 months with £235 customer deposit, £400 deposit allowance, £635 total deposit. Amount of credit £14,360. Charge for credit £919.47. Fi nance Facility fee £10. Purchase Fee £10. Total amount payable £15,934.47. Optional f inal payment £6,819.47. 2.9% APR, 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charged at 6p per mile. When f inanced 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.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

MOTORING �

81

INVICTA HONDA Tun bri dge Well s Business Park , Dowd ing Way, Tun bri dge Well s, Kent TN2 3DS Call 01892 598875 or visit www.tunbri dgewell s-honda.co .uk Fuel consumption figures for the Civic Tourer SE Plus 1.6 i-DTEC Manual in mpg (11100km): Urban 67.3 (4.2), Extra Urban 78.5 (3.6), Combined 74.3 (3.8). C0 2 emissions: 99g/km. Fuel consumption figures sourced from official EU-regulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience. Mod el Shown: Civic Tourer SE Plus 1.6 i-DTEC Manual in Crystal Black Pearl at £22,265 On The Road (OTR). Term s and Conditions: New retail Civic Tourer ordered from 01 April 2016 to 30 June 2016 and registered by 30 June 2016. Subject to model and colour availability. Offers applicable at participating dealers and are at the promoter's absolute discretion. Not to be used along with any other offers currently available. *Honda Depos it contribution: £2,000 Honda deposit contribution on Civic Tourer Diesel models purchased through Honda Aspirations. Honda As piration s (PCP): Minimum customer deposit 0%, maximum customer deposit 30%. You do not have to pay the Final Payment if you return the car at the end of the agreement and you have paid all other amounts due, the vehicle is in good condition and has been serviced in accordance with the Honda service book and the maximum annual mileage has not been exceeded. Indemnities may be required in certain circumstances. Finance is only available to persons aged 18 or over, subject to status. All figures are correct at time of publication but may be subject to change. lnvict a Motors (Maid stone) Limited are credit brokers , not lenders . Credit provided by Honda Finance Europe Pie. Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HL. Honda Finance Europe pie is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register number 312541. **5 Years Servicing include s : All scheduled servicing, as detailed in the vehicles service book, will be covered for 5 years or 62,500 miles, whichever comes first. 5 Years Servicing is optional. It is being offered for £555 including VAT (usual value £1,430 including VAT, resulting in a £875 saving for the customer) and is available to finance or non-finance customers. Please note, should you sell the vehicle during the period of cover, the package remains with the vehicle.

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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.

MASERATI

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.

MOTORING 

FIRST DRIVE

83

AUDI A4 ALLROAD

FACTS AT A GLANCE ENGINE: 2.0-litre TDI producing 190PS and 400Nm of torque

PERFORMANCE: Top speed 136mph, 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds ECONOMY: 57.7mpg combined

TRANSMISSION: 7-speed S tronic automatic gearbox

four blokes in comfort could look elsewhere in Audi’s range. An optional load-securing kit, electric boot lid with foot-gesture opening and an innovative trailer reversing system (which allows easier control of the pivot between you and your horsebox) are all practical additions, but will come at a price – Audi’s options list is never cheap.

EMISSIONS: 128g/km

shape of the car (especially when compared to taller SUVs) and Audi’s effective range of engines, this could be the most efficient premium 4x4 on sale. Audi residuals should be high, thanks to the perennial popularity of Audi’s 4x4 estate range. Servicing could cost more than similar cars, and it’ll certainly cost more to buy.

BEHIND THE WHEEL

By Ed Wiseman WHAT’S NEW? Audi has stuck to its winning formula: Take a smart premium estate, add its class-leading fourwheel drive system, and then sell it to people who want a normal-shaped car that won’t get stuck in wet grass. To date, the result has always been superb. This time, the four-wheel drive transmission has been radically altered to make the car lighter, more fuel efficient, and friendlier to the environment. Using what Audi calls ‘Ultra’ technology (their badge for anything vaguely ‘green’) the rally-born Quattro system has been brought into the 21st century.

LOOKS AND IMAGE The differences between the vanilla A4 and the A4 Allroad are more subtle than they ever have been. That’s partly because the A4 is, overall, a more aggressive-looking car than it once was, with that distinctive gaping front grille full of angry vertical bars. The flared wheel arches

have grown into themselves and look far more upmarket when colour-matched than as matte plastic panels. The inside remains the same as the standard car – comfortable, well-constructed and generally pleasing. Audi is the most upmarket mainstream Volkswagen Group brand and has always produced very desirable cars. While the other VW brands produce similar soft-roader estates – the Seat Leon XPerience, the VW Passat Alltrack and the Skoda Octavia Scout – the A4 Allroad is the top of the pile. It’s also the most technologically accomplished, thanks to its clever Quattro transmission.

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY Estate cars are functional vehicles, designed to carry more passengers and luggage than hatchbacks and saloons. The A4 Allroad has a 505-litre boot, which is capacious enough to carry dogs or large suitcases, expanding to 1,510 with the rear seats folded down. Those rear seats can feel cramped for taller adults, though, as the chunky back supports of the front seats encroach on rear legroom. Buyers looking to regularly carry

Interestingly, Audi has been keen to downplay the off-road capabilities of the new A4 Allroad. It’s true that the extra 34mm of ground clearance you get is unlikely to be enough for any serious mud-plugging, and this model’s affluent customer base can afford to buy a Range Rover or more serious Audi off-roader if it wanted to. But most of them know that a sophisticated fourwheel drive estate is enough to get them through a British winter, without the need for something as gauche as an SUV. And this four-wheel drive system is certainly sophisticated. Unlike the primitive, permanent allwheel drive systems that made the Quattro name in the 1980s, and distinct from the systems found in other jacked-up estates, the Ultra system uses a powerful computer to evaluate road conditions and engage the rear axle at least half a second before it’s needed. What’s more, a special system will disconnect any unused components of the drivetrain when they’re not in use, saving you fuel. The A4 Allroad feels as much at home on the German autobahn as it does around town. Only occasionally will the automatic gearbox feel sluggish or needlessly fidgety, and the drive modes – ranging from ‘comfort’ to ‘dynamic’ – help you configure the car to your whims. ‘Comfort’ mode turns the A4 Allroad into a wafty wagon, while ‘dynamic’ will firm up the suspension to force the auto ‘box to cling on to gears.

VALUE FOR MONEY No official figures have been released as to how much fuel the ‘Quattro with Ultra’ system saves, but it’s clear that driving the new A4 Allroad – and many other Quattro models to follow – will be more efficient and environmentally-friendly than ever before. Combined with the aerodynamic

‘The rally-born Quattro system has been brought into the 21st century’ WHO WOULD BUY ONE? Affluent rural families who need all the practicality of a 4x4, but aren’t fussed by the image of a big SUV, should take one of these for a test drive. The mannerisms of this premium estate car are hard to fault, and the clever allwheel drive system is at the top of its game. But all of this comes at a price – the A4 Allroad is not a cheap option.

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD: Different.

IF THIS CAR WAS A... film character it would be Michael Caine as Alfred Pennyworth, discreet and unwaveringly loyal butler to Bruce Wayne. “Haven’t given up on me yet?” asks Bruce. “Never,” replies Alfred.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

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FUEL consUMPTIOn MPG (L/lOOl<M) FOR HYUnDAI RAnGE: URBAn 18.0 (15.7) - 80.7 (3.5), EXTRA URBAn 32.8 (8.6) - 94.2 (3.0), COMBlnED 25.2 (11.2) -88.3 (3.2), CO, EMISSIOns 261 -84G/l<M. FUEL consUMPTIOn: FIGURES SHOWn ARE BASED on OFFICIAL EU TEST FIGURES. THESE ARE TO BE USED AS A GUIDE FOR COMPARATIVE PURPOSES Ano MAY noT REFLECT ALL DRIVlnG RESULTS. *2 YEARS FREE SERVIClnG onLY TO BE VALID AT TUnBRIDGE WELLS OR MEDWAY HYUnDAI. i10 S 1.0, 42 monthly payments of £152.94, Customer deposit £151.00, Hyundai deposit contribution Total £151.00, Cash price of vehicle £7,995.00, Total amount of credit £6,423.48, Interest charges £1,286.73, Total amount payable £9,281.73, Optional final payment £2,707.25, Duration of agreement 42 months, Fixed rate of interest per year 3.55% Mileage per annum 10,000 Representative 6.9% APR. New i20 S 1.2, 42 monthly payments of £162.84, Customer deposit £162.00, Hyundai manufactures deposit £1,000 , Total £1,162.00, Cash price of vehicle £9,995.00, Total amount of credit £8,833.00, Interest charges £1499.78, Total amount payable £11,494.78, Optional final payment £3493.50, Duration of agreement 42 months, Rate of interest% (fixed) 3.55% p.a. Estimated annual mileage 10,000. Excess mileage charge per mile 14.9p per mile 6.9% APR. Tucson 1.7 CRDI 116PS Blue Drive, 42 Monthly payments of £209.00, Customer deposit of £2,500.00, Hyundai deposit contribution of £1,500, Total £4,000, Cash price of Vehicle £17,720.00, Total amount of credit £13,720.00, Interest charges £2,568.50, Total amount payable £20,288.50, Optional final payment £7,510.50, Duration of agreement 42 months, APR % 6.9% p.a, Excess mileage 14.9p, Estimated annual mileage. Terms and conditions apply.

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86  TRAVEL

Sailing into a speedy Greek island odyssey

By Keeley Bolger THERE’S no mistaking the destination of my cruise. From the blue and white flags, lunchtime language masterclasses, daily dances, mounds of feta cheese at the buffet, bottles of ouzo behind the bar and even the odd ancient poem on the wall, it’s clear from the moment we get on board that we’re heading to Greece. Our whistle-stop three-day voyage will take us to the eternally popular Greek islands Mykonos, Santorini and Patmos, as well as a quick trip to Kusadasi in Turkey. For a first-time cruise passenger and a newcomer to Greece, this is an ideal way to gain my sea legs. Packing in as much as possible during the day while travelling at night also means we don’t compromise on sightseeing. After a frantic first day in steamy Athens, spent trekking up to the Acropolis in the mid-afternoon heat and examining artefacts at the blissfully airconditioned museum, basking in the shade on deck is just what the doctor ordered. We slump down with our plates piled high with stuffed vine leaves and Greek salads from the buffet, and eat while watching the white churches

Wednesday 4th May 2016

and pretty homes of Mykonos come into focus. Bar-hoppers trail between taverns dotted along the coast, while those with Euros to burn head to the eclectic boutiques in the cobbled alleys, stocking up on one-off jewellery and designer handbags. Neither big partygoers nor enthusiastic shoppers, my husband and I instead order reviving takeaway frappes and stroll around the chapels and lanes. But as cooling as the icy coffees are, we can’t resist braving the rocky entry to the sea and diving into the water for a quick pre-dinner dip. After a seafood feast, we toast the day and head off for one last walk, before trotting back to the ship as everyone else on the island gears up for a big night. There are no lie-ins for us the next day, but with a full weekend of exploring on the agenda rising early isn’t a hardship. First up is a guided walking tour of the ancient metropolis of Ephesus, built in the 10th century BC. We linger underneath the Library of Celsus, built to honour the Roman Governor, and admire the ruined temples. We’re distracted temporarily by a string of stray cats prowling the site of antiquity, before we climb the steps of the amphitheatre to soak up the view.

THE ACROPOLIS Two kinds of air conditioning

LITTLE VENICE The waters lap Mykonos

TRAVEL 

87

SERENE SANTORINI Churches and multi-coloured cliffs

‘For our final afternoon, we head back to the ship and sail towards Santorini, one of the Cyclades islands’

With a couple of hours to spare, I take advantage of the ship’s spa and have my muscles’ kinks and knots kneaded out with a relaxing massage. And the relaxing vibe continues once we arrive in Patmos. Smaller and less bustling than the other islands we visit, the pretty town boasts the

WATCH THE BIRDIE The tourists’ pet – the Mykonos pelican

sacred grotto where St John the Evangelist lived and wrote the Book Of Revelation. We paddle in the bathtub-warm sea, cooling off at one of the friendly coffee shops before tucking into some fresh seafood and vowing we’ll definitely come back again. Our last day sees us docking in Heraklion, Crete, to spend the morning at Knossos, the impressive Bronze Age archaeological site and the capital of Minoan Crete. Although busy here, the guides are slick, moving clusters of visitors around each artefact ensuring very little overcrowding. For our final afternoon, we head back to the ship and sail towards Santorini, one of the Cyclades islands. Like us, many passengers come out on deck to marvel at the multi-coloured cliffs as we approach. Once the site of a huge volcanic eruption, Santorini is now a tourist hot spot, attracting backpackers, honeymooners, young families and cruise passengers alike. As sunset beckons, we duck away from the competing selfie sticks and settle down on a bench with a cold can of Mythos beer, wowed by the colour of the sea and the sky, as the light disappears. We deliberate over whether we should stock up on souvenirs, pay our respects at the church or pore over goodies at the archaeological museum. But with the call of the ship in mind, we opt for a juicy kebab at a nearby shack and watch the world go by. As holidays go, this is a busy one, but in three days we manage to dip our toes into more Greek islands than we could have done alone, and we leave with a real appetite for seeing more of the country.

LIBRARY OF CELSUS At Ephesus, Turkey

TRAVEL FACTS Keeley Bolger was a guest of Cosmos Tours & Cruises (0800 440 2797; www. cosmostoursandcruises.co.uk), who offer the five-night ‘Athens and Iconic Aegean Cruise’ aboard the Celestyal Olympia, including two nights’ hotel accommodation on a B&B basis, before sailing around the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Patmos, Crete and Santorini, as well as Kusadasi in Turkey. Prices from £799 per person for a October 19 departure. Includes return flights from Heathrow, three nights’ full board cruise, an Athens City Tour and all overseas transfers.

Wednesday 4th May 2016

88 � RECRUITMENT

WITH THE

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND SEVENOAKS

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

School Crossing Patrol Officer, Housekeeper & Playground Assistant Post/s to start as soon as possible These roles could be interwoven to suit a couple or joined up for one person. Please contact Rebecca Hall, Bursar: 01892 525837 or manager@themeadschool.co.uk for details and an application form. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. Closing date for applications: 16th May 2016 The Mead School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Belvoir Tunbridge Wells are looking for a Trainee Sales and Lettings Negotiator who wants to become part of a growing estate agency in the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells. As part of an experienced team of dedicated staff you would learn the day to day running’s of a busy agency with an established managed portfolio. This role requires the applicant to possess the following attributes;

KEY STAGE 1 TEACHER (Maternity cover) AND TEACHING ASSISTANT (Reception)

· EXCELLENT COMMUNICATOR · IMPRESSIVE WRITTEN SKILLS · TEAM PLAYER · ADMINISTRATION SKILLS · WELL ORGANISED

· SMART PERSONAL APPEARANCE · GOOD TIME KEEPING AND ABILITY TO PRIORITISE · KEEN TO LEARN AND ABLE TO FOLLOW PROCESSES CAREFULLY.

For more details and to apply for this exciting role, please contact John Haynes on : john.a.haynes@belvoir.co.uk

Required for September 2016 Please contact Ann Green, Headmaster’s Secretary for further details Closing date for applications Monday, 16 May Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN4 9SY Tel: 01892 525591 www.rosehillschool.co.uk admissions@rosehillschool.co.uk Rose Hill is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children Registered Charity No. 270158

Wednesday 4th May 2016

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

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the waterfront at bewl water

bewl water

90 n ARTS & CULTURE

A true work of art in Rusthall Village At the end of this month a new festival gets underway for a weekend of inspiring, community-led workshops and creative demonstrations. Eileen Leahy previews the unique events visitors can enjoy over the Bank Holiday and a few beforehand too… RUSTHALL is clearly a thriving hub of artistic talent. As well as writers and painters, there are sculptors, seamstresses and musicians all residing in this small enclave just two miles outside Tunbridge Wells. To celebrate their impressive collective skills the creative community in Rusthall is putting on its first Arts Festival. Their aim is not only to showcase their talents but to encourage people to come along, be inspired and get stuck in, too. Although the inaugural festival takes place on the final Bank Holiday weekend in May, there are a variety of workshops already up and running in order to help

Wednesday 4th May 2016

publicise the event and organisers are hoping residents in the area will get involved. Keen crafters have been feverishly sewing all manner of materials together at C&H Fabrics in Tunbridge Wells with the local Knit & Natter group. They will use the result as a fun ‘yarn bomb’ which will be revealed at a special location – still to be confirmed – during the festival. They have also begun work on creating their official mascot. The final session for putting the finishing touches to the soon to be unveiled ‘Iron Maiden’ takes place this Saturday, May 14, from 12-3pm at C&H Fabrics, so if

you’re interested in putting your haberdashery skills into practice pop along. Other interesting workshops taking place in the lead up to the Rusthall Arts Festival include an exciting literary event happening this Saturday, May 7, and the following one, from 10am-12noon. Led by local writer Charlie Bell and starting from the Daily Bread bakery in Rusthall, participants of all ages are encouraged to walk around the village and be inspired to write about what they see using the ancient Japanese poetry form known as Haiku. Just turn up at 10am on the day to find out more. There will also be storytelling

DOWN TO A FINE ART Rusthall residents get into the festival spirit

ARTS & CULTURE �

91

A dream ticket

Trinity Theatre hosts a world premiere piece of dance theatre this Saturday evening that will have its audience entranced PLANNING AHEAD Festival organisers deep in discussion

‘The first Rusthall Arts Festival promises to be a dynamic occasion that will not only culturally enrich but also prove just how talented our town is’ workshops led by Jessica Pointon at Rusthall Library each Saturday from May 14 to May 28 from 10am12noon. Participants can then put their newly acquired – or deftly honed – tale-telling skills to the test at a unique event happening at Toad Rock on the first day of the festival at 2pm. As well as fun, family orientated activities over the weekend such as land art making sessions using natural finds from Rusthall Common, there will be interesting installations by sculptors, ceramic demonstrations and plenty of

photographic exhibitions, live music, good food and lashings of community spirit. But whether you participate in a poetry reading, sketching workshop, music concert – or simply go along to observe and absorb – it’s clear that the first Rusthall Arts Festival promises to be a dynamic occasion that will not only culturally enrich but also prove just how talented our town is. For more information on the Rusthall Arts Festival visit www.raft16.org

THE acclaimed Company of Dreams comes to Tunbridge Wells this weekend with a special performance of Scheherazade And The 1001 Nights. This mythical tale promises to be nothing short of spectacular, taking the audience through every kind of emotion – from passion and desire to hatred, anger and betrayal, as it FULL CIRCLE retells the life of the Company of Dreams brave Scheherazade through the medium of dance. Legend has it she saved the life of every woman in the land after offering herself up to be married to a hateful king – despite knowing he had killed many before her. Scheherazade also knew that, if betrothed, she too could face execution the morning after her marriage. The Company of Dreams troupe acts out this classic story, which sees Scheherazade telling the king a host of beguiling

stories night after night, in order to keep herself alive, through a series of different dance genres including jazz, Latin and even some exotic belly dancing. As well as this stunning array of mesmerising routines, there is also a fabulous soundtrack plus plenty of powerful props, amazing costumes and impressive visual effects to make this classic tale come alive on stage. So if you go along, expect fire-eating, sword fighting, genies and demons – and to be on the edge of your seat throughout this magical performance. Company of Dreams perform ‘Scheherazade And The 1001 Nights’ on Saturday 7 May at 7.30pm at Trinity Theatre. Ticket price: £16, concessions £14. For more information visit www.trinitytheatre.net

Wednesday 4th May 2016

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

WHATS ON WITH THE

Eileen Leahy

Local events

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

BLOW IT The Clefhangers perform Saturday

Hole Park, Rolvenden

>> WEDNESDAY The National Gardens Scheme (NGS) gives exclusive access to a number of both public and privately owned gardens. There will be plenty of their events happening in the area over the summer but today Hole Park in Rolvenden is open especially for NGS supporters. So why not pay it a visit and marvel at its stunning parkland, specimen trees and beautiful mixed borders. For more information visit www.ngs.org.uk Tonight and tomorrow night at the Moonlight drive in cinema at the Hop Farm you can catch My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2. Showing at 8.30pm and starring John Corbett and Nia Vardalos it sees the Portokalos family reunited with more hilarious consequences. Tickets cost £20 per vehicle in advance and £25 on the gate. For more details visit www.moonlightcinema.com Scallywag’s Café hosts another of its Carradine’s Cockney Singalong starting at 8pm. Tickets cost £5 on the door. >> THURSDAY Find out more about the rich history of Tunbridge Wells by participating in The Pantiles guided walking tour. Starting at 10.30am at the Tourist Information office in the Corn Exchange, it lasts one hour and takes in historic sites such as the Chalybeate Spring and King Charles the Martyr Church. Tickets cost £5 and are available from the tourist office. This morning from 10am until midday the poetry reading group Roundel meets at St Peter & St Paul’s Sarah Savoy

Wednesday 4th May 2016

Church in Tonbridge. To find out more about the event visit www.roundelpoetrytonbridge.com Every Thursday in May Scotney Castle will host a series of special Rhododendron walks. Starting at 11am, one of the estate’s guides will walk visitors around the grounds pointing out the different varieties in bloom and general tips on how to keep them in tip top condition. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle >> FRIDAY Head along to Frant Memorial Hall for A Murder Mystery Evening this Friday and Saturday night at 7.30pm. Tickets, which are available from Frant Post Office and Stores, cost £15 and include a three course meal. All proceeds go to Frant CEP school. For further information visit www.frant-drama.org Stand-up comedian Shazia Mirza comes to Trinity tonight with her critically acclaimed Edinburgh 2015 Fringe show The Kardashians Made Me Do It. Expect controversy and cutting edge humour. Performance starts at 8pm and tickets cost £17. www.trinitytheatre.net If you’re in Tonbridge and love live music then make sure you see the Absolute Gospel Company’s production of The Day It Rained In Colours. It’s on at the EM Forster Theatre today and tomorrow at 7.30pm with a special matinée on Saturday at 3pm. For tickets visit www.tonbridgearts.com >> SATURDAY The Pantiles Market takes place today and tomorrow so make sure you pop along to stock up on all your seasonal foodie treats and locally brewed craft beers. The Pestalozzi charity, based in Sedlescombe, launches its Big Ladybird Bake Sale today. So get together with your coffee morning pals or organise a special event in your community this May in order to contribute to Pestalozzi’s vital work which helps give children from developing countries a proper education. For more information on how to set up a cake sale visit www.pestalozzi.org.uk Musician Sarah Savoy performs at 2pm today at the King Charles Hall in Tunbridge Wells. Her blend of French Cajun inspired musical entertainment sees her playing guitar, accordion and singing. Prepare for a Mardi Gras style party! Tickets cost £10 on the door. The Clefhangers Big Band Sinatra tribute evening is on at The Angel Centre’s Medway Hall Theatre at 7.30pm tonight. Tickets are only available from 01580 893313 or by visiting www.theclefhangers.com

>> SUNDAY Today there will be a Farmers’ Market in Tonbridge. Held every second Sunday of the month from 9.30am to 1.30pm in Sovereign Way there are over 70 specialist stalls selling their gourmet treats and seasonal offerings. The annual Speldhurst pram race takes place today in order to raise money for the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance and Speldhurst primary school. Registration is open from 11am with the race starting at midday. For more information visit www.speldhurst.org/pramrace If you haven’t already visited the Pacific Northwest Coast photography exhibition at Bedgebury Pinetum there’s still time to catch it. The show is a result of a three week seed collecting project which took samples from some of the world’s oldest, rarest and tallest trees dotted along the Pacific Northwest coast as part of Bedgebury’s international tree conservation programme. Usual vehicle admission fees apply. For further details go to www.bedgeburypinetum.org.uk Stone Cross House in Crowborough is another local property which will be opening to the public as part of the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) today. Situated in nine stunning acres, NGS supporters will be treated to a majestic array of seasonal floral splendour including azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons. >> MONDAY Knole will be hosting a special historical lecture today entitled Coach and Horse: From Kent to Moscow in the 16th and 17th century which reveals the links between the Jacobean heritage of Knole House and a Russian coach which went on to change the way people travel and became a status symbol. www.nationaltrust.org/knole Continuing the celebrations for Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary the Kino cinema in Hawkhurst will be showing a special screening of Globe on Screen’s Measure for Measure at 7.45pm. The Bard’s lesser known work focuses on the issues of corruption, morality and innocence and is beautifully brought to life by esteemed director Dominic Dromgoole in his last production for The Globe. www.kinodigital.co.uk

centres around the diaries, photographs and recipes her great aunt Clarice Spratling kept while she was a voluntary aid detachment nurse in France during the first world war. A stellar cast including Cate Blanchett and Robert Redford star in the political film Truth which is showing at Trinity today at 11am, 2pm and 8pm. Centring around a US political scandal where TV channel CBS accused President George W Bush of having a questionable military background, it’s both powerful and gripping.

PICK OF THE WEEK Jazz on The Pantiles

This popular musical event, now sponsored by Tunbridge Wells’ new hotel One Warwick Park kicks off its summer run this evening and will be on every Thursday until September 29. The live music begins at 7pm at the bandstand with the Carey Williams Trigwell Trio so make sure you’re there.

>> TUESDAY A new exhibition entitled Theatre of War runs until May 28 at Trinity. The work by Kent artist Dawn Cole Measure for Measure

LIST YOUR EVENT… If you’d like to see your event featured in our What’s On pages you can email the details to info@ timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or post to The Times 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NU Event’s name Date and time Ticket cost Contact information

WHAT’S ON 

A ROUND-UP OF THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Paul Dunton

93

The Harveys

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

Live music MY TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK ARE AS FOLLOWS: There is plenty to choose from once again this week when it comes to live music events and my top recommendations are below. Jazz on the Pantiles returns this Thursday with the excellent Carey Trio opening proceedings. As always the event is free to attend, but donations are welcomed to help the organisers with costs. The Jazz continues this Friday with The excellent ‘Old Green River Band’ at The Masonic Centre. For pop/rock fans there are two great bands on show this Friday night with Kolo at Cassidy’s and and Triple Chicked Combo at The Smokehouse. Saturday night offers some excellent gigs with The Harveys at The Royal Oak, Nigel Bagge at The Beau Nash and Groove Agents at The Grey Lady. For acoustic fans and local musicians, make sure you check out the Tarc Open mic at The Cross Keys this Sunday evening and Logan Wilson headlines The Grey Lady this Sunday with support from Michael Wood. THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM Doors 7.30pm, entry price variable, event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk FRIDAY Milk Teeth, Black Foxxes, Eat Me SATURDAY Boy Jumps Ship + Cheap Meat WEDNESDAY Benjamin Francis Leftwich THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7, websites www.pdag. co.uk + www.thegreylady.co.uk WEDNESDAY Gronk, Bison (duo set), MODL, Matthew Hovenden FRIDAY One Jump Ahead SATURDAY Groove Agents SUNDAY Riverhead, Michael Wood, Logan Wilson TUESDAY Harry Witty, Caleb Howard Almond, Rob Picazo

JAZZ ON THE PANTILES 8pm - 10pm live music on The Bandstand, free to attend, donations welcomed THURSDAY The Carey Williams Trigwell Trio KING CHARLES HALL Warwick Park Road Tickets £10 Bring your own drinks and glasses. Tea, coffee and cakes on sale SATURDAY Sarah Savoy’s Cajun Band (2pm) More information at www.marrowmedia.co.uk/ cajunbarn THE VELO HOUSE 5 St John’s Road WEDNESDAY (11) Velo House Music Club: Jim Cregan and Ben Mills For tickets and show times visit www.thevelohouse.com or contact direct on 01892 554 500 shop@thevelohouse.com MASONIC CENTRE St Johns’s Road FRIDAY TW Jazz Club: The Old Green River Band for tickets and show times visit www.twjazzclub. co.uk NO.9 SMOKEHOUSE 9 Nevill Street Open all day, free entry music from 8.30pm till late FRIDAY Triple Chicked Combo

THE CROSS KEYS St Johns Road Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm, website www.crosskeystw.co.uk WEDNESDAY Sonny’s Jazz Paul & the Nocasters with guests FRIDAY Sonny’s Blues SUNDAY TARC Open Mic MONDAY TWURPS Ukulele Beginners Session WEDNESDAY Sonny’s Jazz CASSIDY’S SPORTS BAR Castle Street Open all day, free entry, music from 9pm till late FRIDAY Kolo THE BEAU NASH INN Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late SATURDAY Nigel Bagge Band

SCALLYWAG 45 Mount Ephraim Open all day, music from 7.30pm, entry charge for music may apply WEDNESDAY Carradine’s Cockney Singalong FRIDAY Ed Watts Jazz Piano THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Crescent Road Show times & ticket prices vary, visit www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk for more details WEDNESDAY 11th Otis Reading Jnr THE PUNCH & JUDY 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm TUESDAY The Steve Eggs Band

THE ROYAL OAK Prospect Road Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm onwards SATURDAY The Harveys MONDAY Open Mic & Jam Session

Logan Wilson

Wednesday 4th May 2016

94 � THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Kent Barker Country matters

Forgive them that trespass on subsidised land T HERE’S a small wood behind my house that has the most stunning display of bluebells. Every spring Myrtle and I bound up there to have a look. Actually, she seems oblivious to the luxurious, iridescent, carpet of flowers and runs hither and thither following the scent of a pheasant. She caught one the other day. Instead of flying off into the distance leaving the dog looking forlornly after it, the stupid bird ran headlong into a fence. By the time I called Myrtle off she had a mouthful of feathers, but other than dented pride the pheasant seemed fine… Now this little wood is owned by the extended farming family which has squillions of acres of arable land round here and is renowned for being either uncommunicative or even actively uncooperative with local people. I’ve always been

Wednesday 4th May 2016

OK with them. As a boy I used to wave as they drove their tractors down the lane at harvest time. One always had his dog, a little terrier, on his lap in front of him. Of course that was in the days before tractors had safety cabs so it was easy to call out a cheery greeting. It seems to have paid dividends because when I got my hound a few years back I sought, and received, permission to walk her across their fields and into the wood. This was in stark contrast to a larger area of woodland down the valley in the other direction. For a boy this was an altogether more exciting prospect to explore, and I’d run round it, playing ‘war games in the woods’ with imaginary Indian friends. But, a couple of years back, I was walking the dog there when a man approached me with a shotgun. This wasn’t your normal double-

barrelled farmer’s affair, but some fancy-looking to be managed and that farmers would be cross if automatic weapon which he waved around while their crops were trampled or their livestock asking me what I thought I was doing trespassing frightened. But loads of agricultural land has public in ‘his’ woods. I explained pleasantly I’d been footpaths across it. Why not make it a condition walking in these woods for nigh on 50 years and that if you receive any portion of the £2.6billion trusted that he didn’t mind. But he did. As he (yes, that’s right BILLION) UK farm subsidies you explained at some length. MUST open up your land to the public – perhaps by How would I like it if he came and walked round creating more permissive footpaths over the fields my back garden, he asked? Since, as I later and woods. After all, it’s our money you’re getting discovered, he lived in south London, referring to and I rather resent the idea that the ‘Keep Out’ 20 acres of woodland in the middle of Kent as his notice you are nailing to your gate has been ‘back garden’ seemed a bit preposterous. But I sponsored by me. merely answered that he’d be welcome to come Of course, it doesn’t take one long, when and stroll round the field behind my house if he so considering those massive subsidies, to wonder wished. When he made it abundantly clear that he what’s gone wrong with the ‘market’. If it costs £x didn’t, I made a semi-dignified, but decidedly to produce a bushel of corn, then it should surely hasty, retreat. Myrtle, it seemed had already done be sold for £x + a small profit. Instead of which so. Rather than stay to protect her ‘master’, she’d the supermarkets buy it for far less than that and run back to the house with her tail between her public money is used to keep the farmers in legs. Well, I didn’t like the horrid man either, but business. So we’re not only subsidising farmers to she was completely spooked by him. keep people barred from the land, but we’re So we don’t go there any more. But as we have effectively subsidising the supermarkets, too. permission to walk in the other copse, we do so at Something would seem to me to be rather amiss this time of year with a sense of wonder at the with the system. display of bluebells. But it does seem rather sad that FOR WHOM THE BLUEBELLS TOLL only Myrtle and I get to enjoy Freedom to walk in the woods them. I don’t think anyone else ever visits. They’d have to go across a couple of fields and there are almost certainly ‘Keep Out’ notices on the gates. Which got me thinking. If landowners and farmers are getting paid subsidies out of my taxes, wouldn’t it be a reasonable quid pro quo for them to allow me access to their land? A sort of general ‘right to roam’ if grants have been paid. I see that it would have

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