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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

AT THE SCENE Officers outside the Mayfield house

Crowborough teenager appears in court to face murder charge A 17 YEAR-OLD boy from Crowborough has been charged with the murder of a man from Mayfield. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is accused of killing 52-year-old Paul Jefferies on Tuesday February 23. The boy appeared before Brighton Magistrates’ Court yesterday [Tuesday] for an initial hearing. He was remanded in custody, to appear before Lewes Crown Court tomorrow [March 3]. Mr Jefferies had been found dead by police who were called to his address in Coggins Mill Lane, at the edge of the village,

on the evening of Thursday February 25. Concerns had been expressed that he had not been seen for a few days. According to police, a post mortem at Tunbridge Wells Hospital found that Mr Jefferies had died from multiple injuries. There were further arrests in the case, including that of a 17-year-old girl from Eastbourne, a 16-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man, both from Crowborough. They were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, and have all been released on bail until April 21 for further enquiries.

Hospital struggling to cope Private patients earn Pembury millions while 350 NHS operations are cancelled Exclusive: Eileen Leahy

newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk TUNBRIDGE Wells Hospital is battling to deal with an ‘unprecedented’ demand for its services from NHS patients – hundreds of operations have been cancelled – while at the same time it is making more than a million pounds a year treating private patients. Overstretched resources mean that Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust is also paying for some NHS patients to have operations at ‘independent sector providers’. It has further reported a surge in the number of people attending A&E. The Trust has disclosed that it is charging millions of pounds to provide healthcare in its wing for private patients at Pembury.

According to recent figures, income from private patients rose by 81 per cent from £3.9million to £6.9million between 2010 and 2015. However, while it does not dispute the figures, the Trust argues that they must be viewed in context and deny the provision of private care has contributed to the cancellation of 350 operations at Pembury.

‘Private care is not taking priority over NHS care’ A spokeswoman said: “The figures are not a like for like comparison and are in no way indicative of private care taking priority over NHS care. “NHS patients will always take priority. The increase in income is a reflection of

private patients’ wishes to use the NHS when that is possible and at no time is this at the detriment of our NHS patients.” She explained that patient income was used to provide services which would otherwise be unaffordable with income derived solely from the NHS, but confirmed the hospital was under huge pressure. “Since the beginning of January 2016, unprecedented demand on our emergency services has resulted in around 400 patients for elective surgery being cancelled prior to their operation date across a number of specialities,” she said. Of these cancellations, 350 were at the Tunbridge Wells Hospital, with some operations being transferred to Maidstone Hospital or the private sector. In a statement, the Trust said it was ‘committed to run extra operating ses-

sions as soon as we can to bring patients in as quickly as possible’. It also confirmed the winter weather had led to an increase in the number of people, understood to be ‘very sick’, using A&E, with numbers jumping from an average of 320 to 370 a day. To deal with the capacity crunch, the hospital said it was opening a new 38-bed ward this month and that it remained ‘committed’ to the 18-week standard waiting time, adding: “The Trust is doing everything it can to return the elective service back to normal as soon as possible and minimise disruption for patients. “We apologise to all patients who have experienced cancellations, and would like to reassure them we are working hard to reschedule their procedures as quickly as we possibly can.”

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All the news that matters

Wednesday, March 2, 2016

INSIDE BUSINESS

How independents are fighting online shopping

PAGES 8-9

ENTERTAINMENT Funding shortfall sees cinema plans collapse

PAGE 5

EMPLOYMENT

Report reveals local women are highest earners in Kent

PAGES 6-7

PROPERTY

Tom Jones’ former home is yours for just £4.7million

SEE Property Section

2 � LOCAL NEWS

Weather Wednesday

Humidity: 70%

Sunrise: 06.40am

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Wind: 21mph

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OF TONBRID GE

PAPER

MARK CARNEY Dealer errors at bank revealed Pg 14

Pollution: Low

All the news that matters

Visibility: Good

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

00 n.c 73 ack3 so 75 nE-j4 2 bPinAsoG 73 @EroE 01ridge S

THE Times of Tunbridge Wells this week marks its first birthday with the news that we are publishing a sister paper in Tonbridge. It will be called the Times of Tonbridge and will be available every Wednesday free of charge starting March 23. The quality, upmarket paper will share the same core values as the Times of Tunbridge Wells,, focusing on local people and businesses. Through significant investment in circulation we intend to make it the biggest newspaper in town. Copies will be available at supermarkets, coffee shops and newsagents. The paper will be handed out from 6am at Tonbridge and Hildenborough railway stations and copies will be delivered to homes in the town centre. The move comes in response to advertis-

‘You have brought a considerable balance to the reporting of events’ G ? G KIN IN IN LL TH SE all C F O

Cold with scattered showers, heavy at times.

March 2, 2016 Tunbridge Wells

The Times is a year old and celebrates with the launch of another newspaper WHAT’S MISSING ON THE FOOD FRONT? Pg 54

FERNANDO ALONSO

SCHOOLS DRIVE LOCAL HOUSING MARKET

Medical means he misses Australian Grand Prix Pg 12

GOOD MORNING TONBRIDGE

Pg 20

INSIDE LEGAL

Court closure will deepen inequalities in justice system

PAGE 7

MUSIC

How singing can help your wellbeing and confidence

PAGE 76

HOUSING

Majority of new homes to be built will be affordable units

Business leaders and retailers welcom e the

LOREM ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Pellentesque dictum blandit malesuada. Duis sagittis ligula vel malesuada vehicula. Donec varius rhoncus hendrerit. Nullam non mattis urna. Nulla porttitor turpis a ornare cursus. Suspendisse et tellus non lacus placerat vehicula. Vestibulum vel dignissim justo. In hac habitasse platea dictumst. Quisque ut sagittis dui, non placerat neque. Aenean tempor id metus a consectetur. Pellentesque nisi felis, malesuada vel sagittis et, ullamcorper et eros. Praesent semper nisi porttitor felis cursus pretium. Integer lectus magna, ornare id purus eget, vulputate vestibulum lorem. Fusce accumsan nisl non libero scelerisque, in dignissim

launch of a new weekly paper

eros accumsan. Nam blandit bibendum dolor id congue. Donec risus sem, tempus eu sagittis id, blandit ac leo. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Cras euismod nisl ex, ac dapibus massa dictum id. Vestibulum pulvinar justo ex, in consectetur sem consequat eu. Cras feugiat nunc euismod orci ullamcorper, vulputate porta leo fermentum. Aliquam id orci faucibus, maximus lectus ac, ornare felis. Vivamus vestibulum eros eget elit dapibus luctus. In et eros vulputate, sollicitudin est nec, mattis sem. Aliquam facilisis metus eu velit porttitor interdum. Duis nisi massa, condimentum ut massa non, commodo pulvinar

metus. Maecenas elementum augue at vehicula dapibus. Nulla efficitur vestibulum pulvinar. Aliquam pellentesque urna sed condimentum placerat. Suspendisse potenti. Duis lectus nisi, vulputate non dignissim et, fringilla sed lorem. Nullam elementum purus eu metus iaculis mattis. Suspendisse volutpat varius lectus suscipit pulvinar. Vestibulum non turpis porttitor, luctus risus ut, vehicula turpis. Nam posuere leo lorem, nec imperdiet est dapibus in. Phasellus porta semper sapien, sit amet lacinia lacus egestas eget. Ut finibus, est at bibendum tempus, magna ex diablo viverra enim, quis asail demo lacinia augue nibh ac tellus. Turn to pages 6 and 7

PAGE 5

BUSINESS

EU worker arrived penniless and built £800,000 company

ers in and around Tonbridge asking for a similar media platform to that provided in Tunbridge wells. The launch also reflects the ongoing success of the Tunbridge Wells edition. In the last year we have covered more than 1,100 news stories, including 500 articles relating to business in the area – which remains at the core of the paper. During the past 12 months, the Times has led on some of the biggest stories impacting the town and it residents. From highlighting the challenges faced by the borough council as it deals with major funding cuts to reporting on the need for improving commuter services, plus news of multi-million plans for revamping Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, the Times has been there to record events that matter.

POLITICIANS AND BUSINESS LEADERS OFFER THEIR THOUGHTS ON A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF THE TIMES

Wellington Rocks at sunset sent in by Twitter user: @stroppylandlord Send your weather pictures into... newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES GEMMA HAK ghak@markerstudy.com | 01892 779624 GENERAL INQUIRIES newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timesoftunbridgewells timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timesoftw IF YOU HAVE A STORY WE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Contact details above

16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times of Tunbridge Wells we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU, or email newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.

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QUOTE UNQUOTE ‘Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.’ Groucho Marx

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Jo James, Chief Executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce: “Happy first birthday, and thanks for shining a spotlight on the local businesses and what they are doing to ensure the town and surrounding area has a vibrant economy. Proof positive that local journalism is alive and well in Tunbridge Wells.” Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark: “Congratulations to the Times of Tunbridge Wells on its first birthday – at a time when local newspapers are closing in other places, it goes to show that people in our town are avid readers of local news.” Alison Parmar, Development Manager for the Kent Federation of Small Businesses: “In an increasingly digital world, it is great to have a local newspaper on your doorstep. Since its launch, the Times of Tunbridge Wells has covered exciting local developments and issues for small businesses, as well as putting faces to names.” Matthew Sankey, Chairman of the Association of Pantiles Traders: “I love the paper. It offers local news and views and I genuinely read it every week. I like the fact the paper isn’t afraid to tell the truth on issues such as business rates.”

TWBC Council Leader David Jukes said: “You have brought a considerable amount of balance in the reporting of functions and events in the town and in particular at the Council.” Tunbridge Wells Mayor David Elliott: “I’ve found the Times of Tunbridge Wells very interesting. It has covered our mayoral events and gives intelligent coverage with its mix of local, national and inter-

national news. I look forward to picking a copy up every Wednesday.” Chair of Women in Business West Kent Emma Cox: “I get the paper delivered every week and I like the fact there’s a mix of local news and business in there, with a lot of people that are at my networking meetings appearing in there, so it’s nice to see their successes. I like the fact there are some bigger features as well.”

‘Local independent newspapers play a vital role in telling people what is happening in their area, without resorting to sensationalism or having to act as the mouthpiece of any political party. It was a bold move to set up the Times of Tunbridge Wells last year, at a time when unfortunately many local and national newspapers are struggling, so I’m pleased it has proved a success and I wish the paper all the best for the future’ Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Ann Barnes

WE COULD NOT HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU – THE READERS AND ADVERTISERS TWELVE months ago we took something of a leap of faith when we launched this newspaper. How can you possibly justify such a thing at a time when most towns are seeing their local newspaper close down? screamed the cynics. Print is dead, they declared. Everything now happens online! And to some extent they were right, which is why the launch attracted much media attention from both the industry press to national TV. It made good copy because it was a business decision that ran counter to market trends. But it was the right thing to do if you look at the rationale behind the launch. It was not about making big profits. Most local newspapers lose money, a few break even and

even fewer manage a small margin. In simple terms, it was about putting something back into the community. A phrase that is easily uttered and often misused by those who devalue its coinage. But the idea of giving back is precisely what drove the decision to publish the Times of Tunbridge Wells as an alternative media platform to what was already available in the town. And that alternative ‘upmarket’ option has worked! Feedback from our readers and advertisers has been incredible with more than 20,000 copies of the Times being picked up every week. Many outlets report being ‘sold out’ within a day.

As a free newspaper we rely absolutely on our advertisers – without them we could not publish. Happily they are finding use of the Times more than worthwhile. One restaurant placed an ad that resulted in bookings for 178 people. Another fish and chip shop ran a voucher that led to more than 250 extra sales. That’s why, as we celebrate our first birthday, the staff here at the Times want to say a big ‘thank you’ to the people who pick up and read a copy each week and to the advertisers who placed their faith, and invested their budgets, in this newspaper. Here’s to the next year…. Richard Moore, Editorial Director

LOCAL NEWS 

New director named for the town’s theatre

NEWS IN BRIEF

Pair on bail following attempted murder

JJ ALMOND ‘Exceptionally exciting times ahead’

STALLED Long queues on the A264

Roundabout relief for Pembury Road drivers THE Council-operated Assembly Hall Theatre has appointed a new director in John-Jackson (JJ) Almond. He replaces Brian McAteer, who left the post in November. JJ Almond has an extensive background in the performing arts with artistic and management experience. His career spans 20 years as a manager, freelance director, producer, artistic director and executive director. He is currently Executive Director at Park Theatre, London and will be joining the Assembly Hall in May. His appointment comes following major refurbishment at the theatre and as the Council embarks on a major project to replace the existing venue. Cabinet member for leisure Cllr Jane March said: “I look forward to the influence of his London theatre experience on the local cultural offer. I hope he finds it as culturally pleasing here as so many of our residents do.” JJ Almond said he looked forward to ‘what will be an exceptionally exciting time for the theatre and the wider cultural and creative industries in Tunbridge Wells’. At Park Theatre (Fringe Theatre of the year 2015) he oversaw the opening and operation of the new purpose-built theatre in Finsbury Park, London, for its first three years.

Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE nightmare journey for motorists coming into Tunbridge Wells on the Pembury Road is likely to be easier after the building of a £1.35million roundabout. Previous plans to improve the notorious bottleneck over the years have failed to deliver any discernable reduction in the long queues suffered by motorists during rush hours. Conditions were made worse after traffic lights were installed at the junction where the road meets Blackhurst Lane and Hall’s Hole Road as a planning condition of the expansion of the Skinners’ Kent Academy School in 2012. Hope that motorists will be afforded some relief came after the Borough Council revealed plans for a roundabout are in the pipeline. However, documents released by Kent County Council (KCC) state that ‘significant construction issues’ may hinder the delivery of the project in the 2016/17 financial year. Speaking at a meeting of the Council last Wednesday, Council Leader David Jukes said the money for the scheme had been found after another project had come in under budget. The proposal was described as ‘excellent news’

by Mayor David Elliott. Originally the Council had applied for £1.8million in funding through a partnership with KCC to implement the improvements due to be undertaken on London Road in Southborough. The money was provided following a successful bid to the Government’s Single Local Growth Fund in 2014, but the scheme proved considerably cheaper, costing £600,000. The remaining £1.2million has since been earmarked for installing a roundabout at Pembury Road, Hall’s Hole Road and Blackhurst Lane junction. Cllr Jukes said: “Being left with about £1.2million in change, we suggested building the roundabout. “Amazingly enough they agreed, to the point that Matthew Balfour phoned me up on a Sunday night and said ‘congratulations we are going ahead with this project’. “So it may take a bit of kicking and shoving and prodding but it is actually going to start sometime in the future and the money is there.” In total the scheme is expected to cost £1.35m, based on ‘very broad estimates’. However, Vicki Hubert, the strategic transport planner at Kent County Council, said it was ‘hoped’ the total cost can be brought within the allocation, adding; “Any shortfall could potentially be met through developer contributions.”

Company awarded ‘Best in Britain’ fourth year in a row MARKERSTUDY GROUP is celebrating its fourth year of success at the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For Awards. It beat off stiff competition to maintain its position in the top 100 as 29th ‘Best Company to Work For’ in Britain. The accolade was presented at an awards ceremony in London. Best Companies was established in 2001 to measure and acknowledge excellence in workplace engagement. A survey is sent to staff and the responses are collated and combined to produce an overall engagement score for each organisation.

Only the organisations with the highest level of overall employee engagement qualify for the awards. Markerstudy’s Director of HR and Talent Development, Tanya Gerrard-White said: “We’ve always worked on the basis that if you nurture and motivate your staff, the finances will look after themselves and 15 years down the line from when we first began, we’re thriving.” Markerstudy Group covers more than 80 brands including the hotel One Warwick Park, Salomons Estate, Bewl Water and this newspaper. With 540 local staff, it is the second largest employer in Tunbridge Wells.

POLICE are appealing for information following an attempted murder on the High Street which left the victim suffering a broken leg and injuries to the face. It happened on Sunday February 21 around 4.15am near the junction with South Grove, when a black Suzuki Swift was involved in a collision with a 24-year-old pedestrian. The incident is being treated as an attempted murder and two people, a man (26) and a woman (20), have been arrested and bailed until April 18. Anyone with information should call police on 01622 604100.

Southeastern showdown COMMUTERS will get the chance to vent their frustration at a public meeting this month after Southeastern and Network Rail agreed to sit down with passengers. It comes as a petition to remove the rail franchise from Southeastern passed the 17,000 signature mark. MP Greg Clark said recent rail performance failures had left him with no choice but to call the meeting. It will be held in the Town Hall at 8pm on March 17. To register for a free place, email: gregclarkmp@parliament.uk

Playing field security A FENCE is to be erected around football pitches in Southborough as part of the town council’s bid to prevent a repeat of last year’s incursion by travellers. The scheme, due to cost over £13,500, was announced by Council Chairman Glenn Lester who had pledged to ‘upgrade’ security around the playing fields adjacent to Ridgewaye.

Immigration increase KENT has seen the number of foreign born residents increase by 56,000 between 2004 and 2014 figures released by the Office for National Statistics have revealed. The rise marks the eighth largest for any region in the UK, with a total of 140,000 individuals born outside of Britain now residing in the county. In total, foreign born people now make up 13 per cent of the UK population, compared to 8.8 per cent a decade ago.

The Brazilian touch

Jonathan Austin (Best Companies CEO) with Markerstudy’s Tanya GerrardWhite (Director of HR) and Gary Humphreys (Group Underwriting Director)

PADDOCK Wood’s annual festival will be taking on a Brazilian theme this year in celebration of the upcoming Olympics. Hosted on St Andrew’s Field, the Rio Fiesta will be held on July 9 with a procession starting at noon on Eldon Way to the sounds of a samba band. The festival has been organised by the Paddock Wood Lions for the past 30 years.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

4 n LOCAL NEWS

Arrest warrant dropped in manslaughter case AN INTERNATIONAL arrest warrant against a Dr Nadeem Azeez, who was charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the death of Frances Cappuccini at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in 2012, has been cancelled. The 30-year-old teacher died of a heart attack following a Caesarean section. It was caused by high levels of acid in her blood due to a lack of oxygen. However, the case against Mr Azeez, who had fled to his country of birth, Pakistan, following the incident, has now been dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service. A spokesman for the CPS said there was ‘no realistic prospect’ of a conviction after the cases against his former colleague Dr Errol Cornish and his previous employer regarding the same incident collapsed.

First choice schools THE number of pupils receiving their preferred place at a school in Kent has reached its highest level on record. In total, Kent County Council said 13,159 pupils, making up 81.5 of the total, were successful, compared to 80 per cent in 2015, when 12,796 pupils got their first choice. The improving rate comes as the number of pupils applying rose by 600 to 18,797. In addition, the number of children who have not got a place at any of the schools they applied for has fallen this year to 428 from 621 the previous year.

3D model unveiled SHOPPERS are invited to view proposals for a £70m investment with the unveiling of a large-scale architectural model in Royal Victoria Place. The model has been developed following the submission of a planning application for a series of major improvements at the shopping centre, including a ‘state of the art’ cinema, larger stores and more restaurants.

New Hop Farm festival THE Hop Farm is due to host an awardwinning festival this summer known for appealing to ‘grown-up ex-clubbers and their kids’, it was announced. Chilled in a Field Festival is in its seventh year, having originally been established to cater for just 120 people in Hawkhurst. Its popularity means it has chosen to locate to the larger site. The festival will run from July 29 to 31.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Southborough gives the go ahead on controversial hub Decision taken ‘with a heavy heart’ to demolish the old hall By Neill Barston AFTER months of deliberation and controversy Southborough Town Council has voted to press ahead with plans for a multi-million pound community hub. Despite protests over the project – which involves selling the public playing fields directly behind the site and demolishing the historic Royal Victoria Hall theatre – council members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the plan. Council Chairman Glenn Lester called for a renewed sense of purpose among colleagues from opposing parties as concerns were once again raised over plans to raze the Royal Victoria Hall to the ground. Cllr Lester, who acknowledged that the hall had played a significant role in the community, felt it was the right time to progress a new scheme. He said: “We have all had different points of view on this over the years, but it is clear that residents have favoured a new building for this site. I think the consultation that was carried out was robust and I have every confidence in its findings.” The hub project, which includes new civic and medical centres, a library, and theatre, is a joint venture between Kent County Council, Southborough Town Council and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. The funding for it, thought to be around £30 million, will come from the much disputed sale of public playing fields at the rear of the hall. Concerned by plans to dispose of public green space, UKIP Tunbridge Wells County Councillor Chris Hoare staged a protest outside Thursday evening’s meeting in Southborough, believing the land in question should remain in public ownership. He said: “We are against building on public playing fields that are used by football teams and we don’t believe they should be sold off to developers. These fields are a much better community asset as they are now.” However, the majority of members agreed with a public consultation held over the past eight weeks, in which a total of 63 per cent of respondents wanted a completely new building for the Southborough site. There was a second option which involved part-retaining the 100 year-old hall – which is believed to be the first

municipal theatre in the country – but 15 out of 18 councillors voted against this. The remaining three abstained. Southborough residents had previously mounted a 5,000-strong petition to save the theatre, which the town council claimed was no longer financially viable, with its long-term maintenance running into hundreds of thousands of pounds. Speaking at the meeting, Kent County Council capital project officer Jonathan White said: “The biggest thing to have come from the consultation was that everyone wanted something moved forward. “There are a number of issues that remain including those around traffic and parking, which we would update in terms of the design of the sites, as well as needing to procure the land from Lloyds and Tesco.” Cllr Nicholas Blackwell said he was ‘extremely pleased’ that the hub was being taken forward, but added that an emotional family attachment to the now-closed theatre meant he would be unable to vote for the hall’s demolition. Similarly, Councillor Jason Reeves, who had

campaigned to retain the theatre, said he was voting in favour of the plans for redevelopment ‘with a heavy heart’ given that the building had been built thanks to a community donation of £3,000 by 19th-century Tunbridge Wells dignitary and former Lord Mayor of London David Salomons. The plans were due to be put before a meeting of the Southborough Hub Project Board yesterday. They were expected to be approved.

‘There are a number of issues that remain including those around traffic and parking, which we would update in terms of the design of the sites’

NEW COMMUNITY PROJECT An initial impression of what the new Southborough Hub could look like

IMAGE: Pick/Everard

NEWS IN BRIEF

LOCAL NEWS 

FUNDING SHORTFALL Much of The Corn Exchange stands empty

Question mark hangs over Exchange as cinema plans collapse

Setback for traders hoping cinemagoers would help boost business

Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk PLANS for a high-end cinema to be built in the Corn Exchange have been shelved because of rising costs. The announcement, by the proposed operator, Curzon Cinemas, will be seen as a major setback for The Pantiles where traders had hoped the three-screen site would help boost footfall and business. Blaming a ‘funding shortfall’ brought about by rising building and refit costs for their decision, Curzon said the project cannot proceed without some form of grant or subsidy. Large parts of the Corn Exchange have been empty since the historical attraction A Day at The Wells closed in 2004. The latest news leaves a question mark against the future of the site. Despite planning permission being granted in July last year, the lack of any visible progress led to speculation that Curzon was growing cautious after it was announced a new eight-screen multiplex was to be built at Royal Victoria Place. This was soon followed by speculation that

additional screens might also be part of any new development of the old cinema site in the town centre, adding further pressure on Curzon. A spokesman for Curzon denied there were question marks over the Lower Pantiles cinema when approached by the Times in December, claiming the development was at an ‘advanced stage’.

‘This is not the end of the road for rejuvenation of The Pantiles’ However, Curzon Chief Executive Philip Knatchbull admitted on Friday that while the company was still ‘very keen’ to open a cinema in Tunbridge Wells a lack of funding means the current plans were ‘on hold’. He said: “We are prepared to invest a sevenfigure sum, but there remains a significant funding shortfall to finance a Curzon Cinema which will provide Tunbridge Wells with the latest film releases and other arts programming for which we are renowned. “We would like to thank [site owners] Lower Pantiles LLP for their commitment and efforts in attempting to find a viable scheme.

“But, despite our joint hard work, we have come to the conclusion that the increased costs means we are unable to move forwards at this time.” Lower Pantiles LLP, which owns the Corn Exchange and is headed by the Marquess of Abergavenny – whose family ties with the historical promenade stretch back generations – is said to be looking at other options for the future use of the building. A spokesman for Lower Pantiles LLP said the company was unable to make any further comment at this time. Despite the setback, Matthew Sankey, Chairman of the Association of Pantiles Traders, said it was ‘not the end of the road’ when it comes to the continued rejuvenation of the area. “I am disappointed but something else will go in there and I believe there are other options on the table. “The Pantiles is on the up and up and a cinema was not going to be the be all and end all. “Trade at my Pantiles restaurant was up 50 per cent on last year during the winter months, showing people are visiting the area and that it is no longer a white elephant.”

Pay and display parking to end at Royal Victoria Place

ONE of the busiest car parks in Tunbridge Wells at Royal Victoria Place is to be upgraded with a new digital system that will enable shoppers to pay on exit. Under the present scheme at RVP visitors have to pay for a set period on arrival. Members of the borough council’s cabinet voted in favour of extending an existing Post Payment scheme, which is now in place at Great Hall Car Park. Residents have lobbied the authority over the past three years, with a petition emerging calling for an end to much-criticised pay and display parking. Tunbridge Wells is reported to be one of the first local authorities in the UK to adopt the technology.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

6 � LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Entrepreneurs help push pay rates

Official report shows females earn above average

Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THERE’S no better place in the south east for women to do business and earn more money than Tunbridge Wells, according to a new report.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Women in the town take home more than their counterparts anywhere else in Kent and more than the national average, new figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveal. Average earnings for Tunbridge Wells women were £377.30 per week in 2015, totalling £19,619 per annum.

That is £70 a week more than the Kent average and also higher than the average in the rest of the south east, which stood at £345 per week. On a UK-wide comparison Tunbridge Wells women earned £32 more per week than the national average, says the ONS which is the UK’s largest independent producer of official statistics and the recognised national statistical institute of the UK. Emma Cox, who runs the organisation Women in Business West Kent, said the figures reflect the ‘entrepreneurial’ nature of the town. “Tunbridge Wells is great for people who want to start their own business. There is a lot of opportunity here and more and more women are setting up companies, some of which grow quite large,” she said. Much of this is down to the support networks in Tunbridge Wells which are absent in other parts of the region. “There are enough types of networking groups for anyone to benefit, which is especially important as many new businesses depend on referrals. “Tunbridge Wells has a lot of very creative people, so although there is always an element of competition, there is also a lot of collaboration.” Mrs Cox said the attractiveness of the town as a place to do business was self-fulfilling as it led to even more successful women choosing to locate here.

“There are lots of women who move down from London having already worked in highprofile jobs and who have the confidence and belief in themselves to set up a company.” Men working in Tunbridge Wells earn an average of £521 per week, £27,092 per year. While this is better than the Kent and UK averages, at £514 and £520 per week respectively, it is below the south east average at £552 per week.

Ability Recruitment expert Reece Singh, branch manager of Recruitment Solutions, believes the earning power of women working in Tunbridge Wells reflects a well-qualified female workforce. “It’s interesting to know that research and evidence from the ONS show women working in TW earn an average of £377 per week,” he said. “From our perspective we find the clients and companies we work with seek only to judge candidates and people who work for them on the basis of work experience and ability, never gender. “The research could be reflecting evidence of gender equality within the local workplace.” He added: “Working with both expanding companies and growing companies, we have often found that Tunbridge Wells baulks national trends given its forward-thinking approach to business.”

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS 

for women to the highest in region VIBRANT COMMUNITY Kelly Wilcox

TOWN IS BETTER FOR BUSINESS Kelly Wilcox, 37, Creative Director of BakerWilcox, St James’ Park Kelly set up her graphic design and branding business 11 years ago and has seen a steep rise in turnover ever since she moved to St James’ Park, Tunbridge Wells. Her local clients include Nikwax in Wadhurst. “We started in Edenbridge but Tunbridge Wells is just more buzzy, a lot more vibrant. “If you compare Tunbridge Wells with Sevenoaks, women there are more likely to stay at home and not set up businesses. Tonbridge is more of a commuter town where people disappear up to London. “You feel you want to stay in Tunbridge Wells. Women here are more likely to set up their own classes and all the mums I know have a good network. “It is more diverse here, so if you wanted to open a shop you would probably choose Camden Road because it would be cheaper than in the town centre. “I went to school in Tunbridge Wells and went to London for college. The schools are brilliant here and house prices are good. “We pick up enough business locally to stay rather than going up to London. There are lots of businesses here without us needing to go to London.”

IT’S A FEMALE DOMINATED PLACE Laura Parker, 35, established Freckles and Fire 18 months ago She has just launched her new creative workshop in the basement of the Fine Grind coffee bar in the High Street. It is aimed at parents and children as young as five and Laura hosts creative workshops, kids clubs and parties. “Tunbridge Wells is a really hard nut to crack. But once you’ve cracked it, it’s brilliant. I have a really loyal following and everybody chats here, which is really good if you are starting up. It’s not like London where people only chat about you if you have a bad reputation. “The reason women are doing well here is because it is a female dominated town, certainly during the week. I have always been in media and marketing and it has given me my identity back. And because of that it’s made me a better mum.”

LOYAL FOLLOWING Laura Parker

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

8  LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Online shopping battle How independent retailers are fighting back LAST week saw the oldest jewellers in Tunbridge Wells announce it was closing shop after 147 years trading on the High Street. Payne and Son sales consultant Jo Wicker cited several reasons why the shop was no longer deemed viable by its owner Francis Starkie.

She listed a decline in Christmas spending, a preference for people to park and shop under the same roof at Royal Victoria Place shopping centre and the unrelenting competition from online retailers. Payne and Son is far from alone in feeling the adverse effects an increasingly dominant online retail industry is having on independent retailers. Last year the Centre for Retail Research predicted £52.25billion would be spent

SPECIALIST DESIGNER Kitch is a specialist designer store which provides an ‘eclectic’ range of brands and was opened ten years ago by Charlotte Newman, who herself had previously spent 18 years in the fashion industry. Mrs Newman believes the key to survival on the high street is to provide a good shopping experience and gain the loyalty of customers. “Competing with online can be a problem, and it has affected us so I just make sure to work twice as hard in other areas. “We have set up our own website which grows every year, but there are a certain amount of customers who will never buy clothes on the internet. And it is a hassle sending things back.” “They want to feel the fabric, and many people are after the full shopping experience, which you do not get just from clicking a button.”

To make sure her customers keep coming back, Mrs Newman goes to great lengths to provide them with what they want. “I offer one-on-one service to my customers, some of which I have had for years. “This means I completely know their tastes and know exactly what they will want when I go to buy clothes in LA, Paris or Milan.” This effort means Mrs Newman’s product range of middle-market designer brands and high fashion is unique, always on trend and, importantly, hard to find online. “A lot of the brands I sell will not be found online or are too new for people to know what to google for. “What we are doing is going back to how it used to be and offering the level of service you just cannot get online.”

Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

‘UNIQUE’ Mr Goss

E-CIGARETTE RETAILER The Vapour Trail is an independent e-cigarette retailer with exclusive rights for the distribution of Totally Wicked e-cigarettes in the South East. However, despite online competition not having a significant impact on his business at the moment, co-founder Ian Rockingham believes ongoing developments mean this can change. He said: “Our biggest online competition is with our own supplier, Totally Wicked. “At the moment we are pretty

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

exclusive and not many people sell that brand and so online does not bother us for the moment. “There is also little difference in price between what we each offer. “However, the major brands, led by Totally Wicked, have formed a conglomerate called UKVB (UK Vapour Brands) and if they push online that could become a problem. “They could also end up opening their own shops nearby and as Totally Wicked is part of them it won’t be seen as a breach of our exclusive rights, and that would be problematic.”

online, representing 15 per cent of all retail sales in the UK. Online retailer Amazon in 2014 recorded sales of £5.3 billion. The dominance by the online giant was recently described as ‘absolutely heartbreaking’ and a ‘desperate state of affairs’ by former Number 10 advisor Rohan Silva. The Times talked to a cross-section of local retailers to find out how they’re taking on the online competition…

‘SERVICE’ Mrs Newman

ALTERNATIVE CLOTHING In Gear is an independent alternative clothing retailer based on Camden Road, which also provides a thriving T-shirt printing business. Employee Sam Goss said the store was not overly concerned by the threat of online retailers as the brands they stock are fairly unique and they cater to a niche customer base. Mr Goss explained: “We are a specialist shop and we are the only one around this part of Kent. “Our customers prefer shopping in a store and say it is a hassle to buy clothing online, if they mention going online at all, which the regulars don’t. “We also do not have to undercut online competition due to the uniqueness of our brands, which are hard to find elsewhere and are quite alternative.” In addition, the store has diversified, he said. “We have a lot of customers for print, especially the local schools who get their leavers’ hoodies done here. “We have also provided prints for local businesses such as The Black Dog café among others.”

‘EXCLUSIVE’ Mr Rockingham

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS 

THE MUSIC MAN The well-known Brittens store on the junction of Mount Pleasant and Grove Hill Road has occupied the location of music retailers for more than 100 years. Director Andrew Collins said the store has had to change the way it approaches business to compete online. “The game has changed and we had to change our service profile as now people ‘TEACHING’ are buying things Mr Collins online which they would have previously purchased here. “Now we offer one-to-one teaching, repairs and other services and unique products.

“I think those in this industry which have struggled are the ones who have failed to adapt.”

‘GROWING’ Mr Clayton

COFFEE AND TEA Perk & Pearl is an independent specialist coffee and tea retailer which was founded three years ago by Joe Lloyd, who himself has over 20 years of experience. Mr Lloyd believes that although buying various teas and coffees online is becoming more ‘HOLISTIC’ Mr Lloyd

ON YOUR BIKE Velocipede is an independent bike retailer on Camden Road run by Manager Simon Clayton. The store has weathered online competition by ensuring it offers a high level of service, with its current popularity meaning the retailer is about to undertake a complete refurbishment. “We are growing massive,” said Mr Clayton. “There is a lot of competition online offering our products for cheaper prices. “But because of the complex nature of the business, such as fitting and repairs, we find we are able to compete. “We find people shop online, get the wrong thing, and are then put off for life and that is because you cannot sell this type of service on the internet.”

common, with services available which send a new batch to the consumer on a regular basis, the market is also quite polarised. “If you are driven by price you will go online, but if you want expert advice or premium products you will come here. “What we offer is a holistic service, because if you want to do retail on the high street nowadays you have to provide an experience which cannot be given on the internet.” To this end, the store displays local art, plays music and ensures its product range is kept extensive, while only importing in small batches to ensure fresh stock. Mr Lloyd also believes business diversification is another important aspect of survival on the high street. “What you need is to have different income streams, which is why we do a bit of online ourselves but are also moving on to the wholesale business.”

Whether you are looking for kitchen, dining or living furniture, upholstery or accessories the showroom in Tonbridge has it all Located just oﬀ the High Street, opposite Waitrose car park

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

10 � LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

From fleeing war-torn Bosnia to owning a string of pizza outlets

The fascinating journey of one man who is living the British dream Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk AS THE merits of immigration take centre stage in the ongoing EU referendum debate, the Times talks to one individual whose journey from a war-torn country led him to start a new life as an entrepreneur in Britain. Edin Basic (50) is joint owner of Firezza, the chain of highly successful award-winning pizza takeaways which opened up its first store outside of London in Tunbridge Wells two years ago. It now has 17 outlets and an annual turnover of around £5million. Forced to flee his hometown of Mostar in 1992 as civil war raged in a crumbling Yugoslavia, Mr Basic had no idea where he would end up as he abandoned Bosnia and headed to the Croatian capital of Zagreb. He left his home with his girlfriend, asked a travel agent for two tickets to anywhere, and the next day the pair arrived in London. “I couldn’t speak English at the time,” said Mr Basic, who was penniless and forced to live on benefits for six months before work. “It was pretty grim, coming to somewhere you didn’t expect to end up and going through all the ups and downs. But the war was terrible.”

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Determined to carve out a future in this country, Mr Basic, who had trained to be a civil engineer in Bosnia, readily accepted a job as a kitchen porter in an Italian restaurant in Paddington. Already a reasonably good cook, he soon developed a flair for Italian dishes and became head chef at another restaurant, as well as gaining managerial and waiting skills elsewhere. In 2001, Mr Basic met a fellow citizen of his hometown who was also making his way in the food sector and together they decided to open their own chain of restaurants.

‘If you work hard you can definitely make something of yourself ’ “My business partner Adnan Medjedovic had moved here around the same time and we ended up working together, which led us to think we could go into business,” said Mr Basic. With barely enough money to launch their first branch, which was situated in Battersea, the pair were forced to rely on the help of their friends. But their determination to be as authentic as possible paid off, and the chain started to grow. “We saw the market for pizza delivery was huge so there was plenty of opportunity to get a slice of it, but we wanted to be different from our

rivals so we did our research for nine months. “This led us to going all the way to Naples, where the first pizza was invented, in order to find our first chef. “At first we had to source all the food ourselves as many authentic ingredients as possible, but now we have good suppliers.” By opening on average one new outlet a year, Mr Basic said they had intentionally taken a cautious approach to expansion and were keen to ensure they did not outgrow themselves. “We have raised money for growth twice and have investment from private equity, but we want to be sustainable and not a giant with glass legs which will collapse.” Mr Basic said it was the close proximity of Tunbridge Wells to London which led it to be their first site outside of the capital. “As there are many commuters we thought there would be some brand recognition which would help.” Although Mr Basic never wanted to leave his home country under such terrible circumstances, he has grown to love his adopted home. “I am really grateful for the opportunities I have been given here because even though I could have ended up somewhere else I do not think I would have been able to achieve what I have in other countries. “People talk about the American dream, but I believe there is definitely a British dream, too. If you choose to work hard you can definitely make something of yourself.”

Who is Edin Basic and what is Firezza? � Born in Sarajevo, Bosnia, in 1966. � Grew up in Mostar before moving to the

UK in 1992 to escape the war. � Trained as a civil engineer. � Founded Firezza in 2001 after working in numerous dining establishments throughout London. � There are now 17 stores operating under the name, with the first opening in Battersea. � Other locations include Islington, Docklands, Wandsworth, Chelsea and Notting Hill. � The Tunbridge Wells branch was the 16th to be opened and the only one outside of London. � The private company has a turnover of around £5million with profits over £1million. � In 2013 corporate finance advisers Alaris Capital valued the company at £6million, with Mr Basic and his business partner Adnan Medjedovic at the time owning a 54 per cent stake. � Firezza pizza is wood-fired, handmade and sold by the metre. � Buffalo mozzarella is flown from Italy every week and the dough for the bases is made fresh in the restaurants every day. � The average spend per JOINT OWNER order is around £20. Edin Basic

NATIONAL NEWS �

Watch out for Storm Jake WIND AND RAIN 50mph gusts expected

Osborne aims to avoid long, costly and messy EU divorce A COMPREHENSIVE economic analysis of Britain’s membership of the EU will be published by the Treasury ahead of the referendum on June 23, George Osborne has announced. The report will set out what reformed membership means for the UK as well as what the alternatives are and the risks associated with a Brexit. Mr Osborne made the announcement as he warned MPs that a vote to leave the EU would result in a “long, costly and messy divorce”. The Chancellor faced numerous attacks from Eurosceptic Tory MPs as tensions within the Conservative Party over the EU referendum bubbled to the surface during Treasury questions. Mr Osborne told the House: “My responsibility as Chancellor is for jobs, livelihoods and living standards. “It’s clear to me that a UK exit from the EU

would be a long, costly and messy divorce that would hurt all of those things. “We have already seen sterling fall and HSBC yesterday predicted a further 15 to 20% slump in the event of a vote to leave. “The finance ministers and central bank governors of the G20 concluded at the weekend that a British exit would cause an economic shock, not just to the UK but to Europe and the world. “What people are asking for in this referendum campaign is a serious, sober and principled assessment from the Government setting out the facts, and I can announce today that the Treasury will publish before the 23rd of June a comprehensive analysis of our membership of a reformed EU and the alternatives. “It will include the long term economic costs and benefits of EU membership and the risk associated with an exit.”

TEMPERATURES are set to plunge across the UK as Storm Jake sweeps in and although there could be snow showers, the South East looks as if it will escape the worst of the weather. The Met Office has issued yellow warnings of snow, ice and wind, with forecasters saying icy roads could lead to travel disruption during rush hour today (Wednesday). After what is expected to be the warmest winter on record, the arrival of meteorological spring is being marked by this wintry spell which is set to see as much as 10cm of snow on high ground and severe gales in some places. Met Eireann has issued a national warning for strong winds in Ireland through the night to Wednesday morning, and this meets the criteria for naming a storm - so Storm Jake has been born. In the UK, blustery weather is expected during Wednesday morning across south-west Wales and south-west England where isolated gusts of 70mph are possible around exposed coasts, with gusts of 50mph inland. There is a possibility of some snowfalls, but Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill said that even within the warning areas, some people may not see snow due to the nature of showers. Places likely to be hit include Lancashire, the Manchester area and the Peak District, and Mr Burkill said: “Even if the snowfall is not that great, we could see icy surfaces if surfaces are left untreated, so drivers should be aware that there could be some disruption to travel.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Bid to keep rare painting in UK A RARE watercolour of a lost Henry VIII palace could be exported from the UK unless a buyer is found to keep it in the country by matching the £1 million price tag. The painting by Flemish artist Joris Hoefnagel is the earliest depiction of Nonsuch Palace in Surrey and one of only six surviving pictures of the mansion, which was built in 1538 to mark Henry VIII’s 30th year on the throne and the birth of his son Edward. Culture Minister Ed Vaizey has put a temporary export bar on the painting leaving the UK in the hope that a British buyer can be found.

Murder case collapses BRICKLAYER Seamus Daly has been released from prison after his prosecution for the Omagh bomb attack collapsed before it reached trial. The 45 year-old had been on remand in prison since being charged with murdering 29 people in 1998 and a range of other terror offences in April 2014.

Firm wrapped up A PACKAGING firm claims the introduction of a 5p charge for plastic bags in England has caused it to go bust. Forty workers have lost their jobs at Nelson Packaging’s factory in Lancashire.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

12 � NATIONAL NEWS

Freedom of information remains intact after protest THERE will be no major changes to the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act following an outcry over potential curbs. There had been suggestions that fees would be introduced for putting in requests but the Government has now said this would be ‘inappropriate’ after an independent review found the legislation was ‘generally working well’. The Independent Commission’s report into the operation of FOI rules praised the legislation for enhancing openness and transparency, but suggested some changes were needed to improve clarity. A Commission statement said: “In some areas, the Commission is persuaded that the right of access should be increased. More generally, the Commission would like to see a significant reduction in the delays in the process whereby without good reason requests can go unresolved for several years. Downing Street denied the Government was still considering some legislative tweaks, even though it had rejected major reforms. “We are not seeking to change the legislation,” the Prime Minister’s spokeswoman said.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Air pollution causes 40,000 deaths a year

GREY DAY Smog hangs over London THE Government must take steps to tackle air pollution within days or face further legal action in the High Court, environmental law firm ClientEarth has warned. The firm, which won a ruling against the Government in the Supreme Court over its failures on air pollution last year, has sent a final warning letter to Environment Secretary Liz Truss, giving her 10 days to act ClientEarth claims the Environment Department’s (Defra) recently published plans to cut pollutants fall ‘woefully short’ of what the court ordered.

The threat of court action follows a report from the Royal College of Physicians and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health warned an estimated 40,000 people die early each year in the UK because of air pollution. European rules set limits for key pollutant nitrogen dioxide (NO2) which should have been met by 2010, but ClientEarth said the plans which the Government was ordered to produce by the Supreme Court do not see the UK meeting legal targets until 2025. The air quality plan published late last year focused on bringing in clean

air zones in five English cities by 2020, in which the most polluting buses, taxis, coaches and lorries will be charged to enter the centre. But the move does not cover private cars, which ClientEarth said are one of the biggest sources of poor air quality in cities. London, which breached its air pollution limits for NO2 for the whole of 2016 just a week into January, is set to introduce a ultra-low emission zone in London by 2020 which will cover all vehicles, but is not expected to meet legal levels until 2025. ClientEarth chief executive James Thornton said: “Despite an order from the UK’s highest court, despite tens of thousands of premature deaths in this country every year and despite clear evidence to show that air pollution has a terrible effect on the health of vulnerable groups like children, the Government has consistently ducked its responsibility to ensure our right to clean air.’ The law firm said it had asked the Government to produce new plans with a list of measures that will bring air pollution down to within legal limits in the shortest time possible and put the proposals out to consultation.

NEWS IN BRIEF

No reason to reopen Litvinenko inquest THE inquest into the death of former Russian agent Alexander Litvinenko will not be reopened, after the judge who led a public inquiry into the killing ruled there was ‘no sufficient reason’ to do so. An inquest was opened shortly after Mr Litvinenko’s death from radioactive polonium poisoning in 2006, but was put on hold in 2014 when Home Secretary Theresa May announced an inquiry chaired by Sir Robert Owen. Sir Robert’s 300-page report revealed in January this year that the former spy had been killed by the Russian FSB secret service, and possibly approved by President Vladimir Putin.

Huge blaze near M25 A WAREHOUSE was destroyed when a huge fire broke out in an industrial yard near the M25. The alarm was raised just after 2am yesterday and the blaze in Whitewebbs Lane in Enfield, north London, was tackled by 72 firefighters with 10 engines before it was brought under control shortly before 6am. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Doctors’ check-up PATIENTS who do not visit their GP for five years could be barred from their doctor’s surgery under plans being developed in the east of England.

BUSINESS NEWS 

Hundreds of jobs axed by bakery firm GREGGS is to close three bakeries with the loss of 355 jobs as it reshapes the business. The company said it will close sites in Edinburgh, Twickenham in London and Sleaford in Lincolnshire as part of a £100million investment to upgrade its bakeries over the next five years. The group, which currently runs 12 bakeries and just under 1,700 shops, said the jobs will be axed as a result of the reorganisation. The group added that further improvements to its sandwich range and the addition of free-range egg omelettes to its breakfast menu saw pre-tax profits jump 25.4 per cent to £73million in the year to January 2 compared to 12 months ago. The retail chain opened 122 new shops last year and closed 74, as the business trims its high street presence in favour of more outlets in retail parks and motorway service stations. It also refurbished 202 shops in 2015, and upgraded 20 stores to cafe conversions. Chief Executive Roger Whiteside said: “In 2015 we delivered another excellent performance in the second year of our strategy to transform Greggs from a traditional bakery business into a modern, attractive food-on-the-go retailer.”

High streets are becoming saturated by charity shops BRITAIN is ‘increasingly becoming a nation of charity shopkeepers’ and the Government needs to act to address the unequal balance between charity shops and small retailers, said Conservative MP Mark Menzies during his Westminster Hall debate on the future of high streets. The Fylde MP queried whether high streets were ‘heading towards saturation’, adding that charity shops were ‘not a universally welcome institution either among shoppers or amongst fellow retailers who struggle to compete.’ He said: “Napoleon famously said that we were a nation of shopkeepers, I wish that we were. In recent years we have increasingly become a nation of charity shopkeepers. Their numbers are ever increasing and shoppers on our high street are suffering from a lack of variety as a result.” Mr Menzies stressed he recognised the value of charity shops, with thousands raised for good causes, and the filling of spaces that in some cases would otherwise go empty. But he added: “The problem is that we are not even allowing retail businesses to attempt to attract customers or to try to make a profit,

NEWS IN BRIEF

Barclays Bank shake-up after fall in annual profits BARCLAYS confirmed it awarded sacked Chief Executive Antony Jenkins a bonus of £505,000 in a total package worth £3.4million for 2015 in its annual report, which also revealed falling profits after more mis-selling charges. As a result, the bank has announced a major group-wide shake-up, which will see it split into two divisions – Barclays UK and Barclays Corporate and International. Mr Jenkins was fired last July after lacklustre revenue growth.

Manufacturing on brink

SHOP FRONT Charity challenge

in fact we are denying them from opening in the first place.” The challenges that high streets faced, he said, were many and varied including tough competition from online retailers and supermarkets, excessive parking restrictions and charges and the proliferation of tax breaks benefitting charity shops. He urged the reduction of

mandatory rate relief for charity shops from 80 per cent to 50 per cent and more effective monitoring and enforcement on the restrictions of the sale of new goods in charity shops. He also called for a reduction of business rates and a simplification of the system, which he said currently ‘unfairly punishes’ property-intensive industries.

BRITAIN’S manufacturing sector is teetering on the brink of stagnation after expanding at its slowest pace for nearly three years last month, according to the Markit/CIPS manufacturing purchasing managers’ index. The warning is tempered by recent falls in the value of the pound, which has raised hopes that manufacturing will get a muchneeded boost as it makes British goods more attractive to overseas buyers.

Stereotypes revealed GENDER divide is entrenched in apprenticeships in London, with men dominating positions in engineering and construction, while women take up most roles in health, education and retail. The divide was highlighted by a Labour Party report.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

14  INTERNATIONAL NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

Judge backs Apple in locked iPhone case THE Justice Department cannot use a 227-yearold law to force Apple to provide the FBI with access to locked iPhone data, a judge ruled. It dealt a blow to the Government in its battle with the company over privacy and public safety and gives support to Apple in its fight against a California judge’s order that it create specialised software to help the FBI hack into an iPhone linked to the San Bernardino terrorism investigation.

Russia delays vote on North Korea sanctions

Oscars numbers down THE number of people who watched the Academy Awards dipped to its lowest level since 2008 in a year when the movie industry was criticised for its inability to reflect the nation’s diversity. The Nielsen company said Monday’s preliminary estimates showed 34.3 million people watched Sunday night’s Oscars ceremony. Last year’s show was seen by 37.3 million people.

Body found in garden A GROUP of young people renting a luxury home in suburban Paris for the weekend through the Airbnb service discovered a badly decomposed body in the garden. The unidentified white woman in her early 40s was covered by tree branches that had been deliberately placed there, said the French authorities who were called in to investigate.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

MILITARY MIGHT North Korea faces further sanctions THE United States has asked the UN Security Council to hold a vote on a resolution that would impose tough new sanctions on North Korea in response to Pyongyang’s latest nuclear test and rocket launch. A vote on the resolution, drafted by the US and North Korea’s traditional ally China, has been held up for several days by Russia, which asked for more time to study the lengthy text and has reportedly suggested changes. The draft resolution would subject cargo ships leaving and entering North Korea to man-

datory inspections. It would also prohibit the sale of small arms and other conventional weapons to North Korea, closing a loophole in earlier resolutions. US Ambassador Samantha Power has said the sanctions would limit, and in some cases ban, exports of coal, iron gold titanium and rare earth minerals from North Korea, and would prohibit countries from supplying aviation fuel, including rocket fuel, to the country. But the draft resolution lets countries determine whether such exports are for military or

humanitarian purposes, which takes into account the bleak humanitarian situation of the majority of North Koreans. In addition, the draft resolution would impose financial sanctions targeting North Korean banks and assets and ban all dual-use nuclear and missile related items. North Korea started off the new year with what it claims was its first hydrogen bomb test on January 6 and followed up with the launch of a satellite on a rocket on February 7. It was condemned by much of the world as a test of banned missile technology. Over the past 20 years, North Korea has conducted four nuclear tests and launched six long-range rockets, all in violation of Security Council resolutions. The US, its Western allies and Japan have pressed for new sanctions that go beyond the North’s nuclear and missile programmes. But China, Pyongyang’s neighbour, is reluctant to impose measures that could threaten the stability of North Korea and cause its economy to collapse.

ROOFTOP PROTEST Calais stand-off

Woman slashes wrists during Calais protest AROUND two dozen migrants protesting against the demolition of the sprawling Jungle camp in Calais were surrounded by police yesterday [Tuesday] after they climbed on to the rooftops of some of the makeshift buildings. The slow tear-down of the encampment is continuing, angering migrants who live there in squalid conditions in the hope of reaching a better life in Britain. A man and a woman on a rooftop warned police not to come closer. But police moved in, and the woman reportedly cut her wrists. The man was beaten with batons and both were removed from the roof. French authorities are blaming the activist group No Borders for the ongoing unrest. Calais is temporary home to an estimated 4,000 migrants, down from 6,000 in December.

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Wednesday 2nd March 2016

16  PEOPLE

Separating fact from film fiction Former Foreign Office diplomat drove US Embassy staff to safety in Tehran siege By Neill Barston nbarston@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

SINGING with the Royal Tunbridge Wells Choral Society, Martin Williams seems perfectly at ease with retirement. However, the impeccably-mannered bass singer, who has performed with the group over the past five years, has a remarkable story to tell. During his Foreign Office career he, and his garishly-coloured Austin Maxi car, played a central role in rescuing US diplomats from the 1979 Embassy siege in the capital city of Tehran, which became one of the most dramatic incidents in modern political history. It threatened to utterly undermine already fragile relations between the Middle East and Western powers. The Iranian attack has since received the full Hollywood treatment from actor and director Ben Affleck in the award-winning movie Argo. However, the film controversially claims the British failed to assist six US diplomatic personnel who had escaped capture in the incident. Feeling compelled to set the record straight on events, Mr Williams, who now lives in Yalding, revealed that the airbrushed screen version of the siege could not be further from the truth, and he feels a sense of vindication that other more accurate accounts from people who were actually there have discredited the film’s interpretation. As a senior British Foreign Office representative, Mr Williams was posted to Tehran in 1977, where he initially found the country in a comparatively stable and prosperous state. He was involved with commercial export operations, and could scarcely have imagined becoming engulfed in such a crisis. The US embassy siege, which began on November 4, 1979, was to last an incredible 444 days. The six US diplomats all made it out alive, chiefly due to the initial rescue efforts by Mr Williams in his orange-coloured Austin Maxi, accompanied by a colleague, Gordon Pirie. The pair had been assigned the hazardous task of trying to find the US diplomats amid the chaos of a city experiencing revolution. “I just thought it would be wrong not to put the correct situation on record over what happened. “The Americans did acknowledge that we had given them help. One of the diplomats, Bob Anders, told the US press that the film was wrong, and that the British ‘had put their lives

MARTIN WILLIAMS Looking over press cuttings from his days in Iran

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

on the line for them’. It was generous of him to say that, but we had no doubt we needed to give assistance,” explained 74-year-old Mr Williams, who said the presentation of events in Argo had ‘bordered on slanderous’. Despite the severity of the siege, the British diplomat says it was remarkable there were no fatalities during more than a year of tense negotiations that left its American targets constantly fearing the worst. “All the Americans from the Embassy – around 50 staff – eventually got out safely, but there was certainly a risk of death, and lives could easily have been lost if things had gone wrong. They had a pretty awful time of it, and there were threats constantly uttered against them. They were in fear of their lives,” added Mr Williams. One group was eventually smuggled out of the highly volatile situation in Iran under the unlikely guise of pretending to be film production crew, but the CIA kept details of the mission to rescue the stranded diplomats secret for more than 17 years.

Martin Williams [pictured centre] will be giving a Royal Tunbridge Wells Choral Society talk on his other diplomatic role, as Governor of the Pitcairn Islands, on March 18 at St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells. For more information email: geraldchew@uclub.net The society will also be performing A Sea Symphony, by Ralph Vaughan Williams at Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall on April 23. Tickets £10-£24. Box office 01892 530613.

Attack Recalling the events in the build-up to the siege, Mr Williams said the situation had been deteriorating prior to the activists’ decision to lay siege to the US Embassy. It was claimed they did so in retaliation against American President Jimmy Carter’s decision to give Iran’s leader, the Shah, asylum at the height of the Iranian Revolution, which had begun in February that year, and which was marked by the return of exiled religious figurehead Ayahtollah Khomeini. Mr Williams recalled how the British Embassy had already suffered an attack in November 1978, with the site partially set on fire, rocks thrown through office windows, cars ablaze in the streets and demonstrators besieging the compound. In true British understated fashion, Mr Williams described the episode, which made global headlines, as having been ‘rather worrying.’ Unsurprisingly, the whirlwind chain of events of the November 4 is etched particularly strongly in his mind. They began with renewed Iranian demonstrations at the US Embassy. “We received a message saying there were diplomats who had escaped the siege who needed picking up. I was asked to go and find them using my car, a lurid coloured yellowish-orange Austin Maxi I had initially driven out to Iran in. I was out with colleague Gordon Pirie who took the Embassy Land Rover, though the directions weren’t clear and it took us some time to find them. “We eventually found them in a residential area that we were not familiar with. There were five diplomats, including accompanying wives who had also been working in the visa section of the diplomatic service. They were all very worried as they had only been in the country for a few months. We decided to take them to our place, which was in a residential compound near the city. “I phoned my wife Sue to say we were going to have guests to dinner. We brought the diplomats back and gave them a drink.” The Americans were soon moved on for their own safety to the Canadian Embassy, along with another diplomat who had escaped the

US EMBASSY SIEGE Fiction: Argo [above] and fact [right] US Embassy siege and had been hiding out elsewhere within Tehran. The group stayed with the Canadians for about two months and Mr Williams recalls how they were then given fake passports which had to be scrutinised by the Iranian Government to get approval. The ruse involved the Americans masquerading as a movie production crew scouting in Iran to find locations for a sciencefiction film. This formed a large basis of the movie Argo. He added: “This seemed pretty implausible, but it was something that had been worked out with the CIA. The Canadians looked after them, but there was a risk of them being found out. The Canadian Embassy closed down after that. We kept quiet about it as we didn’t want it to affect our work there.” Beyond the US Embassy siege, Mr Williams was also heavily involved in ensuring British nationals were able to exit Iran as conditions deteriorated further. He was later awarded an OBE. The extreme drama surrounding his posting in Iran continued after the Foreign Office was given a tip that the US Government intended to launch a rescue mission to free the remaining 50 embassy staff. The British diplomats were flown out just a day before what was to become an ill-fated mission. This highly emotive chapter in diplomatic history was among Mr Williams’ most eventful in what proved an especially distinguished career. He continued to work around the globe, including travelling across the other side of the world to become the British High Commissioner

to New Zealand, which itself brought with it a host of unexpected, yet rewarding challenges that have left him with some remarkable memories. *In next week’s Times of Tunbridge Wells, Martin Williams gives an insight into his time as Governor of the Pitcairn Islands.

LETTERS �

And another thing… The Times of Tunbridge Wells always wants 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 Sadness over store’s departure

I have never set foot in Payne & Sons and yet strangely I felt saddened to see [February 24] that the shop is closing down, especially as I had no idea they had been on the high street for so long. Seeing these well-established stores as you walk through town is like wearing a favourite old coat, it makes you feel safe and comfortable. I also noticed that in the photo of the shop you ran in your newspaper there was already a ‘To Let’ sign on the property next door. With more and more people turning to shopping on the internet, I hope we are not going to see too many similar signs in the future. Alan Wainwright Via email

Concerns over charity collection

Your front page story [February 24] about the bogus charity collector confirmed my fears that people who rattle tins and buckets under your nose in the high street are not always what they seem. I am always quite suspicious, especially when I have never heard of the charities they claim to be collecting for – although I note the man in your story was using the name of an existing organisation without their knowledge to con shoppers, which is really despicable. But on the other side of the coin, I hope the story does not put people off donating to reputable charities in this way as for some it is an important form of fundraising. Especially when the collectors are usually volunteers who often stand out in the cold and rain for hours to help raise cash for worthwhile causes. Can’t somebody come up with a way that would help us tell the difference between the honest volunteers and shameful con artists? Kathy Macarthy Via email

Greater charity control required

As a lifelong resident of Tunbridge Wells, I have greatly enjoyed shopping in town, which has remained one of the highlights of my week. However, I was not surprised to read your article on a bogus charity collector causing offence and disturbance in the high street, which I think is disgraceful. I’m quite happy to give money to charity where I am able to and I have supported collections for organisations like the British Red Cross, but there have been far too many people on our streets in recent years pressuring us for money and asking us to sign up direct debits for the latest cause of the moment. From reading your piece, it was interesting to note that Tunbridge Wells Borough Council says leaflet distributors don’t have to have a permit – why is the case? They are just as much of a nuisance in the main shopping areas of the town as those who

claim to be collecting cash. Apparently the Council presently allows charities to collect three days a week. Might I suggest that in light the of this police warning on bogus charities that it thinks again about such a policy, and let people just go about their business in town free from any interference. Mrs Joan Symonds, Tunbridge Wells

EU debate intensifies

It was good to see the EU referendum debate making the front page of the Times last week, as it’s such a huge issue it really does need to be given coverage. Wherever you stand on being in or outside of Europe, it’s something that really does affect everyone’s lives, as it relates to so many of the laws and regulations that have a direct impact on us all. While national have covered it seemingly to death at the expense of other global events, it is one of those rare topics which very much matters just as much locally as it does at Westminster, as we will all have our say this June on this historic vote. I was glad to see our MP Greg Clark speak out convincingly in favour of staying in the EU. I share his view that many businesses, including major firms within our town, have operational interests across Europe that would be best served staying in the EU. However, I ultimately remain undecided on which way to vote, given so much conflicting information on both sides in a campaign that is likely to become increasingly personal over the next four months. Mr Cameron himself has said that he has ‘no love of Brussels’ after securing a deal the other week, so it’s clear that we have an uneasy relationship with our Continental cousins. The TV debates on this major issue in June are certainly going to be interesting and may well help people make up their minds in what could be one of the most significant votes in a generation. Colin Matthews, Tunbridge Wells

No axe for AXA

Career orientated MP Greg Clark talks about having a serious referendum debate, but immediately indulges in scaremongering about AXA jobs in Tunbridge Wells. No one believes that French owned AXA will pull out if we vote to leave the EU. Its latest figures show a nice profit of £150 million from its UK operations. The greatest recent threat to AXA in Tunbridge Wells came in 2010 when the company threatened to move completely away from the town following a row with the Conservative-led Council. The greatest future threat comes from automation, not from leaving the EU. It’s estimated that 25 per cent of insurance jobs could go in the next decade. Interestingly, the head of AXA said that a divorce from the EU would cause the UK to become more like prosperous Switzerland. Vraiment? Allons! Terry Cload, Herons Way, Pembury

Ski store needed

Tunbridge Wells is one of the most affluent towns in the south east and I know that, this ski season, a pretty large proportion of the families head for the slopes of France, Italy and Austria. With my own trip to Les Gets in the French Alps imminent, I headed into town to find some new ski boots. We are blessed with plenty of outdoor shops stocking warm clothing and camping gear. But if you want to buy a set of skis, boots or a helmet, you’d better look elsewhere. Skis and boots aren’t the sort of things you can buy online because you need to try them on. So why don’t we have a ski shop? It can’t be because they don’t turn a profit. New ski boots cost £200-£250 a pair. Surely a firm such as Snow + Rock could find a home here? Or better still a non-chain, independent ski store. But it isn’t just ski shops that we are missing so much. Tunbridge Wells is full of yummy mummys so where is a branch Trotters? You’ll find the children’s store in London. We have a Morrisons that’s closing so where is Waitrose? Karen Roberts Via email

CCTV plans for park?

I am glad to see that plans for a new playground [February 24] on the former Calverley Grounds bowling green have gained the support of our local councillors, although it is a shame the Council says it can’t help out financially. I don’t think any final layout has been agreed yet, although I see an initial design of how it might look has been drawn up. I don’t want to sound like a doom and gloom merchant before the playground has even been built, but could some of the funds being raised be set aside for CCTV coverage to ensure that children can play there in safety. Plus CCTV may also deter other groups with mischief in mind after dark. Terence Mann, via email

Calverley CALVERLEY could not resist a chuckle this week when a press release dropped on his desk. It was notice of a visit to the town next Monday by Baroness Thornton, who is to be guest speaker at an event organised by Tunbridge Wells Labour Women’s Forum. The evening is being held to celebrate International Women’s Day, which started in 1911 as part of the fight to end discrimination. The irony is the event is ‘women only.’ Men banned then! Surely, that’s, erm, what do you call it… WALKING the corridors of power last week, this time at County Hall no less a palace. Sorry, no less a place. Words whispered into the ear to the effect some staff had an informal, between themselves, hands-up vote on which way they want the EU referendum to go. Most, apparently, want to pull up the drawbridge. Strange that. SURPRISING what you overhear on the train. Travelling between Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, Calverley listened with interest as a female student regaled her two friends with updates on how she had landed a great deal on some drugs ‘from a guy in Bromley’. The chat then turned to what they want to do when they leave college, to which said female student announced: ‘I want to join the police…’ You couldn’t make it up. CALVERLY never ceases to be amazed just how much people get to depend on technology. Last week himself was being wined and dined at the home of business folk. Relaxing afterwards with a snifter, talk for some reason turned to door knockers. Did the hosts have one on their front door? Neither partner knew. Did they jump up to check the front door? No. They grabbed nearby iPads and went on Google Earth to find out if they did in fact have a front door knocker. They didn’t. Incredible! QUZZING our man at Waitrose about why the upmarket chain doesn’t have a store in upmarket TW, he reveals that they ‘remain as keen as ever’ to open shop here. Apparently ‘the town is absolutely the right location’ for them. Hard to believe then, sir, that you can’t find the right site! You’re clearly not looking hard enough. Off to Aldi now (only joking). THROUGH the post bag comes the following description of an individual who recently featured in the pages of this newspaper… ‘a narcissistic egotist control freak’ . And that from ‘a family friend.’ Anyone recognise themselves?

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

18  EDUCATION

Dire shortage of school governors prompts urgent appeal for help… Charity surprised by lack of interest from people in Tunbridge Wells By Simon Holden SCHOOLS in Tunbridge Wells are desperately short of governors and an urgent campaign has been launched to recruit dozens of new ones. Now recruitment charity SGOSS – Governors’ for Schools has joined Kent County Council to boost numbers in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. Fifteen local state schools are looking for at least one governor and some need more, the charity said. Across Kent there is a 20 per cent shortfall with up to 200 places unfilled. Governors play a vital role in ensuring pupils get the best education. Being a governor allows parents to directly improve their children’s education. But far too few are coming forward. “One of the things putting people off in Tunbridge Wells is that they may work elsewhere and feel they are too busy to do it,” said Hannah Riley of SGOSS (School Governors’ One-Stop Shop). “I was surprised at the number of vacancies in Tunbridge Wells. People wrongly think they have to be a governor at their child’s school, but that’s not the case. You can be a governor elsewhere. “You give a lot back but you get a lot out of

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

PLENTY OF CHOICE You can be a governor at any school

it. Governors can really see the impact of what they are doing, and it’s good fun because you get invited to school events. “Being a school governor is a learn-on-the-job role, with free training provided where you will pick up skills that can be transferred back into your professional career. “The role of a school’s governing board is to

make sure that the school’s pupils receive the best education possible. Governing boards play a crucial part in raising school standards in three key capacities: Setting strategic direction, monitoring school performance and ensuring the school’s finances are accounted for.” Governors meetings take place once or twice a term and last about two hours.

So who makes a good governor? The main requirement is that a would-be governor is keen and committed to helping. Specialist skills are not always required. But some schools would benefit from governors with knowledge of finance, the law, construction, facilities management or education.

20 � WEDDING FEATURE

Simple, elegant and personal For local married couple Rhiannon and Ashley Whybra, a DIY approach and the company of friends and family was all they needed to make their perfect wedding come true. Rhiannon tells the story of how she and Ashley met, and looks back on some of her favourite memories and highlights from the big day How did you and your husband meet? We started chatting through MySpace, an online music site that was quite popular in 2006. Initially we discussed our musical tastes, then moved on to family, people we both know etc. A few weeks later, Ash asked me to meet him in Tonbridge Park for a walk along the river. We met alongside the river, but our first date was spent sitting in a local pub chatting and getting to know each other. Tell us about the proposal It was on Mother’s Day weekend in 2014. We were lying on the sofa having a cuddle while our son Toby was playing, and I joked to Ashley that, seeing as it was Mother’s Day, could we possibly have a bit of

romance in the house? He took this as his cue, pulled a ring out of his jacket pocket and basically said he couldn’t get more romantic than proposing. The original plan was to propose the next day once Toby was in bed; I would have come down to candles and dinner, but he said that would have given it away, so he took his chance the day before. Where did you get married and how did you choose the venue? Both our parents married at the register Office in Tunbridge Wells, and we both agreed we didn’t want anything too lavish. The register Office was perfect; the room was beautiful and it met all our needs – simple, elegant and personal. Neither of us

WEDDING FAMILY L - R: Rhiannan, Megan, Toby and Ashley

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

wanted anything too fussy, and this venue was exactly what we wanted. What about the reception? We chose The Plough at Leigh due to its barn, as well as its great reputation. We had a rustic theme, which suited The Plough perfectly; oak beams, surrounded by countryside, daffodils in the garden and the ‘olde-worlde’ pub feel – very us and the ideal size. There was enough room for everyone to sit comfortably, and with the bar being in the barn itself, it meant that much We liked the guests weren’t separated too much. thought of everyone being together. The garden was perfect for photos and had a wells play area for the kids, along with wishing wells. The owners, Hazel and Mick, were very flexible and open to what we wanted. We could decorate the barn to our liking, and they really took their time to listen to our requests carefully and ensure every little detail was covered. Any key highlights from your big day? Having our nearest and dearest with us was a big highlight for us. Spending that time with our loved ones and seeing them excited for us was amazing. Having seen us together for eight years, they were itching to see us get hitched! Toby was the ring bearer, and to have him involved was great and hopefully something he will never forget. We hired a mint green and cream camper van called Marty from VW Brides, which matched our colour theme perfectly. This transported bride, father of the bride and bridesmaids to the register Office, then both of us, along with our son Toby and Ashley’s daughter Megan, to The Plough, a perfect 30 minutes to be together before the reception. Walking into the barn once everyone was seated was fantastic. We had decorated the day before with daffodils in jars, bunting and games on each table, such as after dinner trivia, noughts and crosses and jacks. To see

it all come together and everyone relaxed and enjoying it was brilliant. We appointed a games master on each table to ensure everyone had fun. At one point, Ashley went over to speak to one table, and they were so engrossed in their TV Trivia game they told him to go away! My bridesmaids had a great time and were smiling all day, which we loved. My sister Jo, two best friends Alison and Sabrina, and Megan were all dressed in mint green with gypsophelia bouquets. They were brilliant, helping with the kids’ games, passing round the guest book and making sure I was looking and feeling my best. We had afternoon tea instead of a sit-down meal, which was very relaxed and a bit different to weddings we have been to before. The evening was fun and everyone was up dancing; it helped that the dance floor was in front of the bar! We had a DJ who was happy to play a mix of songs/genres, which meant everyone had a little boogie. Our wedding table was full of goodies: Guess the number of sweets in the jar, silly photos of us, and a time capsule for people to write messages of love and luck to open on our five-year anniversary, along with a wheelbarrow full of sunflower seeds as the favours. How did you start your married life together on your honeymoon? We went to Rhodes for one week and stayed in an all-inclusive, five-star spa hotel, which was in an idyllic location. We chuckled reading through the guest book; some lovely messages with a few jokes for good measure. We lived together already, so married life started with saving for our next big event – buying a house, which we plan to do this year. Talk us briefly through some of your key suppliers and how they helped make the day special Elizabeth King in Hildenborough supplied my dress; she was superb, very personal and professional and certainly knew her stuff. Each appointment was an individual one, and she

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Wednesday 2nd March 2016

 PROPERTY SECTION

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

In my view… Rupert Connell Partner, Office Head Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells

Amazingly it is 83 months since the Bank of England reduced the Base Rate to 0.5 per cent where it has remained ever since and where it looks set to stay for the foreseeable future. This helps those home buyers needing a mortgage and provides a degree of stability which the property market relies on. Nothing is ever perfect, though, and periods of uncertainty take their toll on market activity. In 2015 we had the build-up to the General Election which caused a major slowdown. This year we anticipated a much smoother ride, however the impact of another change in Stamp Duty Liability Tax, which comes into effect on April 1, is bound to focus the minds of those looking to acquire a second home or an investment property. Inevitably it will cause a rush of transactions leading up to that date, however it remains to be seen what effect this increased tax will have after then. The next two hurdles we will have to contend with are the London Mayoral Election in May and the European Referendum in June. It seems highly unlikely that either of these events will have any lasting impact on the property market in the UK regardless of the result, but they will prove to be a distraction which will inevitably cause a drop in transactional activity. The fact still remains however, that whatever the state of the market there are always those who need / want to sell and those who need / want to buy. As a vendor, the secret to a successful transaction is to be realistic about your guide price. Remember the guide price is simply the ‘bait’ to attract a buyer, to view. The higher the price, the fewer buyers will want to see your property and the less chance you will have to sell it. Your agent needs to create a market around your property in order to establish the correct price and achieve the best possible result for you. Selling your house successfully involves so much more than simply setting an unrealistic asking price, posting the property on the internet and hoping for a ‘bite’.

Knight Frank 01892 310997 www.knightfrank.co.uk

newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

DO YOU HAVE A STORY? Wednesday 2nd March 2016

SOCKNERSH MANOR FONTRIDGE LANE, ETCHINGHAM

£4,750,000

Spectacular Sussex manor once owned by Tom Jones

ITTING in an elevated position overlooking a peaceful wooded valley, Socknersh Manor dates back to the 16th century. Grade II listed and of significant architectural and historic importance, the property has many fine features, most notably the gabled hood over the entrance supported by two male figures known as ‘baby eaters’. Character features also include doors, leaded light windows, wide oak floorboards, exposed timbers, wood panelling and fireplaces. Famously co-owned in the 1960s by singers Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck, the larger original estate was broken up but the manor still retains more than 56 acres. The house has been

restored recently, with a new Mark Wilkinson kitchen installed, and the extensive gardens have also been meticulously restored to their former glory. The ground floor comprises a large drawing room, a reception hall, study, dining room and family room. The well equipped kitchen/breakfast room has a utility room, chiller room and Aga. There is also a large shower room, laundry room and boot room with secondary access to the first floor. On the first floor there is a large landing which doubles as a sitting room, leading into the master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room. There are a further five good sized bedrooms, four of which have modern en-suite bathrooms.

A short distance from the house is a substantial coach house with a staff flat on the first floor and a games room, cinema and party room on the ground floor. Further outbuildings include a large stable block, substantial stone barn providing parking and large steel portal framed barn. There is also a four-bedroom stone cottage available as a second lot. Within the gardens is a superb swimming pool and spa, as well as a floodlit tennis court and a stunning lake which features a boathouse, a slipway and jetty, and a timber-framed pavilion with a log flume into the lake below. In all, the gardens, grounds, woodland and lake amount to 56.3 acres.

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PROPERTY SECTION 

AT A GLANCE � Grade II listed manor house � Set overlooking its own wooded valley � Excellent leisure facilities � Packed with character features � Reception hall � Drawing room

� Master bedroom with dressing room and bathroom � F ive further bedrooms, four en-suite � Two-storey coach house with games room, cinema, party room and staff flat above � Barn with garaging

� Study � Dining room

� Stable block and further outbuildings

� Family room

� Swimming pool

� Modern kitchen/breakfast room

� Tennis court

� Utility room

� Parklike grounds and woodland

� Boot room

� Private lake

� Shower room � Cellar

� Four-bed cottage as a second lot

� Landing/sitting area

� 56.3 acres in all

£4,750,000 For sale through Knight Frank 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk ·"""-·

THESUNDAYTIMES

THE . . .T IMES

Goudhurst £1,295,000 A charming 6 bedroom Grade II listed family home in a prominent position within this popular village. The property is full of character with period features including inglenook fireplace, exposed beams and brickwork as well as park-like gardens ofjust under an acre.

Nr Rotherfield £750,000 An attractive and very well presented detached house with superb outlooks, fantastic living accommodation including an excellent kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms and 3 bath/shower rooms. EPC: D

SALE AGREED

Crowborough £725,000 A well presented, modern detached house built in 2011 by award winning developers Millwood Designer Homes to an exacting standard and an individual design. Located in a delightful quiet lane on the south side of the town. EPC:C

Langton Green £695,000 An excellent 4 bedroom Georgian style detached family house with a well presented interior and attractive good size garden to the front and rear with current planning permission to extend further. EPC: E

Tunbridge Wells £575,000 A former late Victorian 4 bedroom townhouse, which has been refurbished to an exceptional standard throughout. It is situated in a convenient location for local transport links and numerous schools are also within close proximity. EPC:C

Matfield £535,000 A spacious and light, beautifully presented apartment over two floors and is understood to be the largest in this fine Edwardian country house, set in gardens and grounds, of about 5.25 acres off a country lane well away from traffic noise. EPC:E

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

Eridge Green, Tunbridge Wells

£1,200,000

This enchanting period house is believed to date from the Regency period, around 1820 or earlier, and then extended in keeping in more recent years. It was formerly an estate lodge set in beautiful parkland about half a mile along a forest drive enjoying attractive outlooks all round. There is Planning Consent to add a two storey extension to provide further reception/bedrooms. EPC:G

• Garden and Grounds over 2.5 Acres • Artist Studio • Double Garage • Tranquil Parkland Setting • Main line station 2.3 miles

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

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THESUNDAYTIMES

T-"!:AMPTONS

INTERNATIONAL

THE . . . .TIMES

Staplehurst £1800pcm This immaculately presented, detached Oast House is situated in a beautiful rural setting within approximately a 10 minute drive to Staplehurst with its local amenities and transport links to London. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells £2600pcm A stunning Grade II Listed town house in enviable town location within the conservation

Tunbridge Wells £1695pcm LET AGREED - SIMILAR WANTED This extremely well presented and deceptively spacious Victorian terraced house which is situated in the popular St Johns area. EPC: E

Tunbridge Wells £1450pcm LET AGREED - SIMILAR WANTED This well presented 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom split level apartment is situated within a superb converted school in central Tunbridge Wells location. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells Office

Lettings. 01892 597609

tunbridgewellslettings@hamptons-int.com

T-"!:AMPTONS

Beyond your expectations

www.hamptons.co.uk

路"""路

THESUNDAYTIMES

INTERNATIONAL

THE . . . .TIMES

SALE AGREED

Five Ashes, East Sussex With lovely views and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a fine contemporary counry house designed to reflect heritage architecuture and constructed with sustainability in mind.

Sevenoaks, Kent An extended, 6 bedroom, detached, family house set in a residential cul de sac with off-street parking, garage and garden within 0.8 miles of Sevenoaks mainline station.

In 2015 Londoners bought 63,000 homes outside of the capital, a two thirds increase on 2014 and the highest number in eight years.

SALE AGREED

With 33 London branches in our network, we can direct these buyers to your home.

Hartfield, East Sussex Surrounded by its own land and enjoying lovely far reaching views, a Listed 17th century Sussex style farmhouse with extensive outbuildings, ancillary accommodation, barns and stables all set within approximately 145 acres.

Knockholt, Kent A detached house with much character and potential located in a semi-rural location in a sought after village. Set in grounds of approximately 13 acres, the accommodation extends to 4247 sq. ft. (394.6m) including a two storey annexe.

Instruct us now to benefit from this surge in interest from London. Source Countryside data Otford, Kent A substantial double-fronted, five bedroom family house, located in a 'No Through Road' in a sought after and picturesque village.

Wadhurst, East Sussex Situated along a private no-through road on the edge of the village with far reaching southerly views, this is a very impressive 1930's house that has recently been substantially extended in keeping with the original character.

Tunbridge Wells Office: Sales. 01892 597607 I tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com Sevenoaks Office: Sales. 01732 423127 I sevenoaks@hamptons-int.com

2015

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

·"""·

THESUNDAYTIMES

T-"!:AMPTONS

INTERNATIONAL

THE . . . .TIMES

Maidstone Road, St. Mary's Platt Guide Price £875,000 Spacious detached 5 bedroom family home located in the popular village of St. Mary's Platt. Set off the main road, the house has generous entertaining space, swimming pool, garage and off street parking, on a plot that extends to approximately 1.48 acres, including a formal garden and woodland. EPC: D

London Road, Addington Guide Price £725,000 A spacious detached house with flexible accommodation and the benefit of an annexe that could be used for further living accommodation or as a home office. EPC: E

Sevenoaks Office

Sales. 01732 423127

sevenoaks@hamptons-int.com

Hills Lane, Knatt's Valley Guide Price £1,225,000 A unique detached 6 bedroom house, enjoying a fine elevated position and standing in gardens and grounds of approximately 3.75 acres. EPC: E

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PROPERTY SECTION �

What does your front door say about you?

When it comes to curb appeal it’s all about the first impression...

NEW HOME FINDER REVEALS ALL

The Black Front Door

HERE are few things quite as pleasing as decorating your brand new home. It is what makes a new build house feel like yours by reflecting your taste and your personality. However, we all know that it is the first impression that often counts the most, so forget your beautifully decorated interiors with carefully chosen furniture, because it could well be the colour of your front door that reveals most about you…

Black is the colour of sophistication. It is classic, authoritative and stylish. Painting your front door black makes a bold statement. It tells the world your home is a place of order and control. That means the person living behind the black front door is likely to have a place for everything and everything in its place. They are a strong, sophisticated person of substance and style.

The Red Front Door

Red is the colour of passion. It is vibrant, lively and exciting and so, too, is the person behind the door. People who choose to paint their front doors red are often some of the most welcoming and hospitable souls, delighting in entertaining and having guests. This explains why, traditionally, red has represented a hospitable home. A red door says ‘welcome’ and it means it.

The Orange Front Door

Orange is the colour of warmth. It is an expression of energy, happiness and confidence. A blend of the primary colours red and yellow, it represents a mixture of the qualities associated with each; the happiness of yellow and the boldness of red. People who paint their front doors orange are often social butterflies. They love to entertain and certainly don’t shy away from the challenge of playing host.

The Yellow Front Door

Yellow is the colour of logic. It represents the left side of the brain responsible for critical thinking and original thought. As the lightest colour in the spectrum, it also inspires feelings of cheerfulness, fun and positivity. The person living behind a yellow door is going to be both logical and lively with lots of vitality for life. Their positive attitude gives them the ‘get up and go’ attitude.

The Green Front Door

Green is the colour of health and wealth. It is tranquil and traditional. With the combined power of representing health and wealth, the

The Grey Front Door

Grey is the colour of contentment. It is calm, practical and reserved. Being a mix between black and white, grey can also be considered the colour of indecision and even indifference. The person who has a grey front door will be looking for a quiet life. They don’t like to stand out too much and are happy making the compromises often demanded by modern life, to ensure stability and balance in their lives.

individuals living behind the green doors are often successful and ambitious. They value the wellbeing of their families as well as working hard and self-improvement.

The Blue Front Door

Blue is the colour of peace. It is calming, relaxing and honest. The sound of the sea breeze and the ocean waves have often been used as examples of peace and relaxation, so it is no wonder that blue represents these qualities. Someone who chooses to paint their door blue will value the peace and tranquillity it brings and will view their home as a place of refuge from the pressures of the outside world. They will also be grounded, honest and true to themselves.

The Purple Front Door

Purple means extravagance. It reflects wealth, fantasy and risk. It is no surprise, then, that the person who picks purple is more than comfortable taking a risk or two. They will also enjoy the finer things in life, indulging in treats and pleasures wherever they can. More than that, though, the person

behind the purple door will dream big and even consider themselves free-spirited.

The Pink Front Door

Pink is the colour of love. A mix of red and white, it blends the qualities of these two colours. The passion and boldness of red is softened by the purity of white, making it romantic, loving and thoughtful. As you may well guess, then, the person living behind a pink door is the neighbourhood’s hopeless romantic! They will make a good partner and a great friend thanks to their caring nature and thoughtfulness.

The Brown Front Door

Brown is the colour of earth. It is warm, stable and organic. Whether painted brown or natural wood, the person behind this door will share the same characteristics as the colour. They will be grounded, down to earth, warm and friendly. However, should the shade of brown be on the darker side of the spectrum, it could reflect a more private soul, looking to avoid too much interaction with the outside world.

The White Front Door

White is the colour of perfection. It represents wholeness, equality and, perhaps surprisingly, creativity. White is the sum of all colours in equal measures and that’s why it has connotations of wholeness and equality. Like the colour, the person living behind the white door will be someone who is very fair. They will be open to all sides of an argument, carefully balancing each side to arrive at a fair resolution. They are also likely to be highly imaginative, able to fill the blankness of white with ideas and creativity.

The Glass Front Door

Last but by no means least, the glass door. Like the material itself, the person behind the glass door has nothing to hide. They are friendly, outgoing and open.

So, does your front door suit you or will you be making a change? New Home Finder provides everything you need to know about buying a new home. Visit www.newhomefinder.co.uk Wednesday 2nd March 2016

ďż˝ PROPERTY SECTION

Convenient six-bed home with stylish kitchen and bathrooms

FTON House is a fine Victorian property which has been fully refurbished by the current owners. The house, which is close to Sevenoaks Station, has many period features together with a stylish kitchen/breakfast room and modern bathroom suites. Of particular note is the superb orangery which was added last year and offers a charming outlook over the rear garden. The principal reception rooms provide areas for formal entertaining and comprise a drawing room with a bay window and a double aspect dining room. The sitting room provides informal living space

and features a fireplace with wood-burning stove and double doors opening to the rear terrace. The impressive orangery by Vale Garden Houses provides additional stylish reception space. The kitchen/ breakfast room is fitted with bespoke units by Rencraft and includes a range of quality integrated appliances. Completing the ground floor is a cloakroom. The basement comprises a wine cellar and boiler room with a butler sink and space for a washing machine and tumble dryer. On the first floor, the master suite includes a bedroom, en-suite

luxury bathroom and a dressing room which could be utilised as a separate bedroom. The guest bedroom on this floor also has an en-suite bathroom. The second floor has four more bedrooms, one with en-suite shower room, and a family shower room. Two of the bedrooms are currently being used as offices. The house is approached via electric gates over a gravel drive which leads to the garage. To the rear is a paved terrace providing an ideal area for al fresco entertaining. There is an area of lawn and an attractive ornamental pond with water feature.

AFTON HOUSE HITCHEN HATCH LANE, SEVENOAKS

ÂŁ2,350,000 Wednesday 2nd March 2016

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE

n Detached Victorian property n Close to mainline station n Period features n Refurbished n Arranged over three floors, plus a cellar n Entrance hall n Drawing room n Dining room n Sitting room n Cloakroom n Kitchen/breakfast room n Orangery n Cellar wine store and boiler/utility room n Master bedroom with luxury bathroom and dressing room/extra bedroom n Guest bedroom with bathroom n Four top floor bedrooms, one with en-suite shower room n Family shower room n Garage and driveway parking n Rear terrace and garden of around 0.3 of an acre

‘Of particular note is the superb orangery which offers a charming outlook over the rear garden’

£2,350,000 For sale through Savills 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Tunbridge Wells

£1,875,000

Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells

£1,850,000 - £1,950,000

An impressive and substantial detached 1930's property situated in an eleva ted position in a sought after and central location. Accommodation to include 8 Bedrooms, 4 Reception Rooms, 4 Bath/Shower Rooms, Large Games Room and Gym. Landscaped Gardens and Garaging. Option to create a Self-Contained Annexe.

An impressive and substantial detached Grade II listed Oast House set in a rural loca tion with stunning countryside views. 4 Reception Rooms, Kitchen Breakfast Room, 3 En Suite Bedrooms, 2 Further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Detached Garage, Superb Gardens and Paddock totalling circa 3.5 Acres.

Battle

Tunbridge Wells

£925,000 - £950,000

£850,000 - £950,000

An immaculately presented detached family home enjoying outstanding rural views within walking distance of central Battle. Accommodation includes 5 Reception Rooms, Downstairs Cloakroom, Kitchen Breakfast Room, 2 En Suite Double Bedrooms, 3 Further Double Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Large Garden, Rural Views, Raised Terrace Area, Driveway and Detached Double Garage.

A substantial (4,296 sq ft excluding outbuilding) detached Oast offering the flexibility to be arranged with independent ancillary/holiday cottage or as a large family home. The accommoda tion comprises five reception rooms, master bedroom with en suite, five further bedrooms, two bath/shower rooms. Gardens and grounds totalling circa 3 acres with countryside views. Quiet and tucked away rural location.

Cross In Hand, Heathfield

Wadhurst

£850,000

A spacious six bedroom family house with accommod ation over three floors, si tuated in a semi rural location within a short drive of the popular market town of Heathfield. The property benefits from a double garage with a studio above and delightful gardens of approximately 0.4 of an acre with stunning views towards the South Downs.

£825,000 - £850,000

A charming d etached, period family home (unlisted) with spacious accommod ation over two floors comprising sitting room with wood burning stove and double doors to the garden, dining room with open fireplace, TV room/snug, study, four bedrooms and family bathroom. Pretty Gardens, off road parking and garage.

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 615757 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

Wadhurst

£795,000 - £835,000

An architect designed detached family hom e with outstanding views, situated in a rural loca tion close to the popular village of Wadhurst. The accommodation comprises two reception rooms, master bedroom with en suite shower room, guest bedroom w ith en suite shower room, third bedroom and a family bathroom. The detached garage has been part converted to create a ground floor room w ith internal staircase to room above.

Horam, Heathfield

£775,000

Boreham Lane, Hailsham

£775,000

A beautiful d etached Sussex barn situated in an outstanding rural loca tion with fabulous countryside views. Well presented accommodation with lots of character comprising of 2/3 reception rooms, 3/4 bedrooms (3 w ith en suites), farmhouse style kitchen w ith AGA and separate utility room. Detached outbuilding currently used as lovely home. Private gardens totalling just over an acre with complete privacy.

Chiddingly

OIEO £750,000

An attractive 3/4 bedroom d etached property offering well presented accommod ation arranged over two floors w ith scope to be further extended and improved. The grounds and gardens are a very appealing fea ture to this property totalling just over 3 acres and provides ample off road parking available along with integral and detached garaging.

A Grad e II Listed Sussex cottage located in the heart of Muddles Green. Built approximately 250 years ago and then extended m ore recently in 2003, the property now fea tures three reception room s and four bedrooms. The property is approach ed over its own private driveway that leads to the d etached brick garage and parking for several vehicles. All set within gardens which extend to approximately a third of an acre.

Amberstone, Hailsham

Heathfield

£729,000

A substantial and well presented detached family house w ith circa 2.1 acres, separa te d etached annexe/rental cottage, stable block, outbuildings and commercial potential. Establish ed gardens and grounds offering excellent privacy with large duck pond, pony paddock and views over neighbouring farmland. Accommod ation includes four bedrooms, two bathrooms and three reception room s.

£725,000

A substantial d etached house built in the 1920's and situated in a convenient yet quiet location. The accommodation is well presented and offers excellent scope for extension and mod ernisation. The ground floor comprises three good size reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room w ith AGA, large utility room and cloakroom. The first floor provides five d ouble bedrooms, study, shower room and a fa mily bathroom.

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 615757 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

Tunbridge Wells

£500,000 - £525,000

Crowborough

£500,000 - £525,000

An exci ting new development from a highly regard ed local developer combining contemporary living with a very high internal specifica tion and fini sh. These two brand new three/four bedroom semi-detached houses are loca ted in a popular loca tion within close proximity to shops and amenities.

This five bedroom modern property which forms part of this exclusive gated development within easy access of the town centre and railway station. The property offers superb entertaining space including a stunning open plan kitchen breakfast room with bi fold doors and snug area. Arranged over three floors.

Tunbridge Wells

£325,000

£275,000 - £300,000

Two bedroom house situated in a very private loca tion in the desirable Hawkenbury area. The h ouse is in good condition throughout, the downstairs comprising of spacious living room with log burner, modern kitchen with space for dining. To the rear is a nice size garden. Viewing highly recommended.

Top floor two bedroom apartment which offers exceptional uninterrupted views of Tunbridge Wells and surrounding countryside. The building holds a pleasant position close to Dunorlan Park and within reach of the town centre. The property has use of communal gardens, a lift and its own garage en-bloc.

Tunbridge Wells

£300,000- £330,000

Ground floor one bedroom flat with it's own private entrance including no stairs situated within this prestige block built by Milward Homes. The property offers an open plan modern u shape kitchen with integra ted appliances, spacious lounge with bi fold doors on to the south facing garden, offering patio and !awned area.

£475,000 - £500,000

Extended three bedroom semi detached house which occupies an enviable position within the ca tchment area for the popular St James primary school. Both the Tunbridge wells and High Brooms railway stations are within reach, as is the beautiful Grosvenor and Hilbert park which has recently been redeveloped.

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 515300 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

Tunbridge Wells

£215,000

Tunbridge Wells

£225,000 - £250,000

Two bed room top floor apartment which occupies a convenient position close to the High Broom s mainline railway station and shopping parade. The apartment boasts plenty of storage, off road parking and communal gardens. The property still benefits from the rem ainder of an NHBC build m ark.

One bedroom garden apartment which occupies a fantastic central loca tion within a sh ort walk of the railway station and Victoria place sh opping centre. The property owns a sh are of the freeh old w ith further information available from our sales team.

Tunbridge Wells

£625,000 - £650,000

£425,000

This beautiful property which has been extended on the ground floor and now offers a stunning open plan kitch en/family/dining room w ith cloakroom and utility cupboard. There are two further bed rooms on this level and a bathroom/shower room. A staircase then lead s from the first floor to a converted attic room which is used as a second lounge/occasional bedroom .

We are d elighted to present this brand new three bedroom town house which form s part of this exciting select d evelopment of just three properties built by a reputable local developer. The property has been fini sh ed to a high specification and is presented over three floors, including off road parking.

Tunbridge Wells

£290,000 - £310,000

This attractive two bedroom terraced house loca ted in the very popular St James area, situated within close proximity to all the local amenities on Camden road and town centre. Offers spacious open living room w ith built in units, stunning mod em fitted kitchen and a m odem d ownstairs white suite bathroom.

£230,000

One bedroom apartment in the very d esirable Broadwater down. The property h as been renovated to a high standard by the current vendor combining period fea tures with contemporary style throughout. The flat comprises of mod em fitted kitch en and bathroom, spacious living room and double bedroom.

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 515300 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

DORMANS PARK,

EAST GRINSTEAD

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

KENT

Victorian family home + 6 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + 4 reception rooms + beautiful gardens + EPC=E + Council Tax=H

4 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + reception room + conservatory + dining room + kitchen + utility room + double garage + EPC=D + Council Tax=G

£5,250 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£2,200 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

LONDON ROAD,

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

KENT

Luxury apartment + 2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + 1 reception room + secure gated parking + spacious balcony + EPC=B + Council Tax=C

Warehouse apartment + 2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + open plan kitchen/reception room + balcony + central location + high specification + EPC=D + Council Tax= TBC

£1,800 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£1,200 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee and 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.

GROOMBRIDGE,

EAST SUSSEX

Tunbridge Wells 6 miles; Eridge MLS 1.5 miles, London Bridge from 55 minutes + 5 reception rooms + 6/ 7 bedrooms + tower rooms + roof terrace + park-like setting in an AONB with views + 7,785 sq ft + about 7.23 acres

Guide £1.85 million Freehold

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

Contact: Amanda Wyatt

KENT

Ground/first floor period apartment + tucked away in a private gated park + elegant drawing room + kitchen/ breakfast room + 2 bedrooms + 2 bath/shower rooms , 1 en suite + double garage + communal gym + communal gardens and grounds + 1,375 sq ft + EPC=D

Guide £750,000 Leasehold

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

Contact: Becky Card

KENT

Well appointed first floor apartment + tucked-away central location + 0.25 miles from town centre + open plan kitchen/ reception room + 2 bedrooms + 2 bath/ shower rooms + communal lift + residents' permit parking + 802 sq ft + EPC=B

Guide £305,000 Leasehold

Contact: Becky Card

Period features Private terrace

Grade 11 listed Attached cottage 2/3 bedrooms Period features Private garden

3 reception rooms 4 bedrooms Period features Large garden

Grade 11 listed 3,759 sq.ft 4/5 receptions 5 bedrooms 1 .3 acres of garden

Well presented 4 receptions 4 bedrooms Approx 6 acres

5 bed farmhouse 3 bed holiday let Total 5,493 sq.ft Approx 9.5 acres

ÂŁ385,000

Village location Impressive kitchen 2 reception rooms 3 bedrooms Garden and parking

21 st century home 5 receptions 5/6 bedrooms 3,100 sq.ft 4.5 acres of grounds

Country Country Country Country 5* Town

Property, Head Office: 01580 211888 All viewings conducted Equestrian Property: 01892 724949 www.countrypropertygroup.com Cottages: 01892 724488 Property Group, Park Lane: 020 7409 8348 & Country Residential Lettings: 01892 7 23456

Victims of our own success, we are desperately seeking more Country Cottages, Character Houses, Farms and Equestrian Properties for our selection of well placed buyers and fully referenced tenants.

Please call for a FREE MARKETING APPRAISAL

Andrews >

Tunbridge Wells andrewsonline.co.uk

Addison Road, TN2 3GG

Guide £170,000 - £180,000

One double bedroom second floor apartment with allocated parking. Entrance hall with room for coats and shoes, living area with defined area for dining and a Juliet balcony. The bedroom is a double size with space for a king size bed. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Colonels Way, TN4 OSZ

£600,000

Detached family home in cul-de-sac in Southborough. 3 reception rooms and conservatory, kitchen and utility room, downstairs cloakroom, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite, double garage. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

St. Andrews Park Road, TN4 ONL

Guide £575,000

Four bedroom semi-detached home with parking set in a cul-de-sac location in Southborough. The property is open plan and has kitchen, dining area and conservatory room leading to the enclosed rear garden. Family bathroom, ensuite and cloakroom. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Lansdowne Square, TN1 2NF

£1400pcm

This three bedroom house is set in a private road at the top of the town, only a quarter of a mile from the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre and half a mile to the mainline station. The property comprises lounge/dining room, fitted kitchen , downstairs we, three bedrooms with built in storage and a family bathroom with a shower over bath. There is also a private garden and off-street parking. Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Sherwood Road, TN2 3LQ

£895pcm

Two double bedroom property located near Greggs Wood School, property benefits from kitchen with appliances and a lounge with brown carpet. Upstairs there is two double bedrooms one with built in wardrobes, bathroom with a shower over and a separate we. In the rear garden you will notice the impressive views over High Brooms. To the front of the property there is a front garden with driveway for two cars. Energy Efficiency Rating: E

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

Dunstan Road, TN4 9NE

£575pcm

A Studio apartment with its own front door located 1.2 miles from Tunbridge Wells mainline train station and 0.7 miles from High Brooms train station. The entrance level accommodation comprises studio room with bay window and built-in storage, Shower room, kitchen with appliances including: inset gas hob, integrated oven, washing machine and fridge. The property also benefits from gas central heating. Energy Efficiency Rating: e

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

Tunbridge Wells • Semi Detached House • 3 Bedroo ms • Co nservatory

Speldhurst

£375,000 • We ll Prese nted • Off Road Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: C

£639,950

• Peri od Style Lodge Property • 3 Bedroo ms/3 Rece ptions • So ught After Village Locati on

Tunbridge Wells • Studio Apartm ent • Bea utiful Peri od Building • Town Ce ntre Location

• No Onwa rd Chain • ORP on Driveway • Energy Efficiency Rating: E

£149,995 • Modern Kitchen • Separate Bath roo m • Energy Efficiency Rating: G

Southborough • Peri od 3 Bed Apartm ent • Private Rea r Gard en • Lounge/Dining Rm with Open Fire

Tunbridge Wells • 4 BedroomTerraced House • 'Old Village' Locati on • 2 Reception Roo ms

£600,000 - £625,000 • Top of Chain • Integ ral Garage & ORP • Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Tunbridge Wells • One Bedro omApartm ent • Ce ntral Location • Ma inline Stati on 1 Mil e

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

£295,000 • Share of Free hold • On Road Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: E

NAEA

£169,995 • We ll Presented • Off Road Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: D

~ / \ The Property ~Ombudsman

(i)nTheMarket,om

woodandpilcher.co.uk

Crowborough • 5 Bedro oms • Doubl e Garage • Close To Town Ce ntre

£2,050 PCM • Ava ilabl e March • Energy Efficiency Rating: D • Age nt's Fees Apply

Tonbridge • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Rece ption Roo ms • Large Rear Garden

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

Tunbridge Wells • 2 Doubl e Bedrooms • En-Suite Bathroo m • Off Road Parking

£1,100 PCM • Ava ilabl e Ma rch • Energy Efficiency Rating: F • Agent's Fees Apply

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

Platt, Nr Sevenoaks A striking and highly versatile contemporary family house of 6,623 sq ft Reception hall, drawing room, dining hall, study, kitchen I breakfast I family room, utility room, cloakroom, cinema room, gym, wine store. Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedroom suites, self-contained one bedroom annexe, games room. Integral triple garage. EPC rating C. Garden and woodland. In all about 1.4 acres.

Underriver, Nr Sevenoaks A superbly renovated country house with detached cottage and stunning gardens Reception hall, sitting room, kitchen I dining room, utility room, study. Master bedroom suite, guest bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom. 2 bedroom cottage. Superb indoor swimming pool complex. Double Garage. Studio office with kitchen. EPC rating C. Stunning landscaped gardens and grounds. In all about 3 acres.

ADVERTISING FEATURE �

Thinking of moving home soon?

You’ve made the decision to move, found your dream home and your offer has been accepted. Feelings of excitement and apprehension set in and all you want is the whole process to end with you safely ensconced in your new home. So what steps can you take to ensure that the process will run smoothly and costly mistakes are avoided? Well, skimping on surveys and conveyancing can cost you dearly in the long run. So here are some top tips to help your move go as smoothly as possible. will not visit the property themselves, so should there be something you feel uncertain about bring it to their attention and they will provide you with the options available in order to try to resolve the issue.

REMEMBER TO ARRANGE BUILDING INSURANCE FROM THE DATE OF THE EXCHANGE OF CONTRACTS. From exchange of contracts you will be legally responsible for the structure of the property. This is often overlooked and can potentially have serious consequences. Make sure you have buildings insurance cover in place from this date. With this being said and the potential risks of buying a home with hidden problems amounting to thousands of pounds in potential outgoings, why would you cut corners for the sake of a few pounds when the risks are so large?

For your FREE copy of The Kent Guide to Buying and Selling your Home, or for further advice regarding your buying/selling experience, contact Max Barford Solicitors in Tunbridge Wells today and speak to one of my property team on 01892 539 379 or email times@maxbarford.co.uk

DECIDE WHETHER YOU ARE HAPPY TO RELY ON THE MORTGAGE LENDER’S VALUATION OR DO YOU REQUIRE A FULL SURVEY. A lender’s valuation is an assessment carried out by and for the benefit of the lender in order to check that the property presents adequate security for its loan should you default and the property has to be sold. However, it does not report on actual faults in the property. For many, a Home Buyer’s Report, which will expose problems such as damp, dry rot and subsidence, is adequate but if you are buying an older house or unusual home a full structural survey will be a wise investment. You wouldn’t buy a car without the

E ID EERS GU FRE MOVE

GET YOUR MORTGAGE AGREED FIRST Although borrowing from banks and building societies has improved recently, it is not a given. So to avoid disappointment, check you can get the mortgage you need before starting the process. You can get a mortgage agreement in principle secured first, but remember that this is an indication and not a legal agreement.

CHOOSE YOUR CONVEYANCING SOLICITORS WITH CARE For a free copy of the Kent Guide to Buying and Selling If you take the risk of buying without Your Home or for further advice regarding your home REMEMBER TO FACTOR IN the support and guidance of an buying/selling experience just complete and cut out this THE TRUE COST OF MOVING. expertly trained legal conveyancer, you coupon and post to the address below. Alternatively call Mortgage arrangement fees, run the risk of walking into a financial or email us today quoting reference MBRTO104 survey fees, legal costs and removal booby trap which can seriously hamper costs are all substantial costs of moving. your progression up the property Telephone 01892 539 379 However, the often overlooked but most ladder. You should also make sure or Email times@maxbarford.co.uk expensive cost is Stamp Duty Land Tax you know who you are instructing (SDLT) which varies dependent on the and that the firm is registered with a Name value of the property purchased. If you regulatory body such as the Solicitors purchase a property above £125,000 Regulation Authority. There are bogus Address SDLT becomes payable. Recent changes law firms out there who will take your to SDLT have been introduced to try money and then close up shop which to make the tax fairer. Under the old means you lose the money and your regime the SDLT percentage rates dream home. That is why it is essential increased at various thresholds. Under that you get the advice and guidance the old rules SDLT was payable at a you need every step of the way from single rate on the whole transaction a known reputable law firm. They are value. From 4th December 2014, SDLT there to help you avoid the pitfalls of is payable on a sliding scale depending what can be a murky area. on the portion of the purchase price The cheapest option may not always Tel.No that falls within each rate band. There prove to be the best. Remember, this is no doubt that the SDLT changes will may well be the biggest purchase you’ll Email be of benefit to many home buyers. For make and you want to be sure that you example, under the old regime, Stamp know what you are buying. You should Duty Land Tax payable on a purchase be able to contact your conveyancer Max Barford & Co price of £350,000 would be £10,500 and fully understand what is happening 16 Mount Pleasant Road and under the new regime it would at each step of the move. If you are Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QU be £7,500 - representing a saving not sure, ask! One further point to www.maxbarford.co.uk of £3,000. bear in mind is that your conveyancer Max Barford & Co. is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell. Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No. 71480 knowledge of a service history, so why would you run this financial risk when buying a house?

M HO

BY DEBORAH MILLER

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

LONDON ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£1,699,900

AT A GLANCE n Elegant 19th-century semi-detached house

n Dining room

n Overlooking the Common

n Shower room

n Arranged over four floors

n Further cloakroom

n Convenient for the town and station

n Storerooms

n Kitchen

n Period features

n First floor drawing room

n Entrance hall

n Three/four bedrooms, two en-suite

n Sitting room

n Family bathroom

n Morning room

n Annexe with a variety of uses

n Cloakroom

n Courtyard garden

n Conservatory

n Off-road parking

£1,699,900 For sale through Savills 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

Step back in time inside this grand town centre property

NJOYING a prime position overlooking Tunbridge Wells Common, this property is one of a pair of early 19th-century houses. With an elegant exterior and with accommodation arranged over four floors, the property benefits from high ceilings, decorative coving, tall timber sash windows, bow windows, shutters and striking marble fireplaces. Painstakingly restored and updated by the current owner, the extensive period detail has been enhanced and complemented by stylish kitchen and bathroom fittings. On the ground floor there is an impressive entrance hall

with limestone flooring and a balustrade staircase, as well as a sitting room, a morning room, a cloakroom and a conservatory with doors to the courtyard. On the lower ground floor there is a generous dining room, shower room, cloakroom and a kitchen with mosaic tiled floor. The drawing room is on the first floor and enjoys views across the Common towards Mount Ephraim. A bedroom, family bathroom and single bedroom/study can also be found on this floor. Finally, the top floor features a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and guest bedroom with en-suite shower room.

Converted a few years ago from a single-storey garage, the annexe provides three rooms, plus two potential bathrooms/cloakrooms over two floors, offering scope for a variety of uses. The property is set back from the road, accessed via a right of way over a driveway to the side of the property to a parking area in front of the house. A York Stone courtyard with feature fountain lies to the rear of the property, separating the main house from the annexe and offering an ideal sheltered space for outdoor entertaining.

‘The drawing room is on the first floor and enjoys views across the Common’

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

‘The private property is well screened from the road by mature shrubs and trees’

Space for a growing family in this bright and modern home

HIS attractive and well-appointed family house was built in 2002 and is set in the sought-after village of Kemsing. The accommodation is spacious and versatile, with a bright and airy feel throughout. The ground floor comprises an entrance hall, double aspect sitting room with French doors to the garden, feature fireplace and gas stove, as well as a study, conservatory, cloakroom and

utility room. The vendors have created an excellent open-plan kitchen/dining/family room with French doors to the side garden. The kitchen is fitted with a comprehensive range of attractive oak units with integrated appliances. Upstairs, the master bedroom has a large cupboard and a spacious en-suite bathroom. There is a guest bedroom to the rear, also with an en-suite bathroom, and there are three

further bedrooms and a family bathroom. The house is approached via an electric gate leading to a private driveway with parking. The private property is well screened from the road by mature shrubs and trees and there is an area of garden to the side. A gate leads to the rear garden, much of which is laid to lawn with a terrace and a further range of mature shrubs and trees.

AT A GLANCE WEST END KEMSING � Modern family home � Spacious and versatile � Sought-after village location � Entrance hall � Drawing room � Sitting room � Study � Conservatory � Cloakroom � Utility room � Open-plan kitchen/dining/family room � Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom � Guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom � Three further bedrooms � Family bathroom � Established gardens � Driveway and parking

£950,000 For sale through Knight Frank 01732 744477 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

Impressive designer house with rear garden ovelooking the rugby fields

ET in a small cul-de-sac in the popular Forest Road area of Tunbridge Wells, this impressive detached family home was built by Millwood Designer Homes in 2005. The property is very well presented throughout and offers generous accommodation over three floors. The house opens to a spacious reception hall with a shower room off it. Part-glazed double doors lead into an excellent triple aspect drawing room with large inglenook fireplace and French doors to the garden. There is a study and a dining room with outlooks to the rear and an underfloor heated conservatory with sliding doors to the garden. The extremely well-fitted kitchen/breakfast room was designed by Burnhill Kitchens with high quality

integrated appliances, and has a horseshoe central island with three induction hobs. There is an adjacent utility room and a personal door to the garage. On the first floor the principal bedroom has a lovely view to the rear, fitted wardrobes, an en-suite shower room and a dressing room. A guest bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and there are two further bedrooms which are well served by a family bathroom. The second floor has two further bedrooms with eaves storage and a shower room. The property is approached via a five-bar wooden gate and a brick-paved driveway provides parking for several cars along with a double garage. To the rear, an enclosed garden has a gate with direct access on to the adjoining rugby fields.

‘Double doors lead into an excellent triple aspect drawing room with large inglenook fireplace and French doors to the garden’

AT A GLANCE COPPERFIELDS TUNBRIDGE WELLS

n Modern kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Master bedroom with dressing room and shower room

n Spacious family home n Built 2005

n Guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom

n Popular area n Overlooking rugby fields n Entrance hall

n Two further first floor bedrooms

n Shower room

n Family bathroom

n Drawing room

n Two top floor bedrooms

n Dining room

n Family shower room

n Study

n Double garage and parking

n Conservatory

n Rear terrace and garden

£1,395,000 For sale through Hamptons 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

PROPERTY SECTION �

Additional Information

Kendal Drive, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1LZ Guide Price £675,000 - £715,000 Freehold Set in a delightful and highly desirable Cul-De-Sac in central Tonbridge, this property is ideally located for access to High Street, Station and Tonbridge's prestigious state and private schools.

Entrance Hall I Ground Floor Cloakroom/We I Lounge/Dining Room 'L' Shaped I Kitchen/ Breakfast Room I 4 Bedrooms I Front Garden I Rear Garden I Block paved driveway to front providing off street parking for two cars I Double Garage I EPC: C

Centred around a bustling high street with its imposing Norman castle, farmers' market and countryside backdrop, Tonbridge is a thriving commuter town. It's loved by families for its grammar schools, respected primaries and private educational facilities. Frequent travellers are equally as enchanted by the town, which benefits from a direct rail route to London mainline stations as well as to Sevenoaks, Redhill, East Croydon and the Kent coast. The M25, M20, A20 and A21 are also on the doorstep. Owner's Comments "We've enjoyed living here for over eight years since we moved out of London. Kendal Drive is an attractive and peaceful street, where neighbours look out for each other without being intrusive - indeed many of the neighbours have been here much longer than we have. As the nearest North Tonbridge Cul-De-Sac to the station, being able to get from home to my desk in the City in just over an hour is excellent."

A CHEERS FOR NEW ESTATE AGENT IN TONBRIDGE Robinson Jackson celebrated its arrival in Tonbridge High Street on Thursday 25th February with a drinks evening for local businesses and influential community figures. The Tonbridge branch is the 24th office for the leading estate agent, who is already active in South East London, North Kent and the Medway. Branch Manager, Spencer Humble, commented: "It was great to see so many business owners, town team members and the local media at our event. It's our firm intention to ingrain ourselves in the Tonbridge community. It's is a brilliant town and we look forward to helping people move with a refreshingly different estate agency style and level of service."

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

‘Surrounded by beautiful grounds and adjoining the Abergavenny Estate, the house boasts attractive period features’

Parkland lodge with permission to extend

OHEMIA Lodge is an enchanting period house believed to date from the Regency period, around 1820 or earlier, and then extended in more recent years. It was formerly an estate lodge and is set in Eridge Park, around half a mile along a forest drive. Surrounded by beautiful grounds and adjoining the Abergavenny Estate, the house boasts attractive period features and there is planning consent to add a two-storey extension to provide

further reception rooms and bedrooms. The ground floor is currently arranged with a spacious reception hall, and cloakroom off it, large dual aspect drawing room with a library area, impressive triple aspect kitchen/dining room and conservatory. On the first floor the three good sized bedrooms all enjoy delightful views over the parkland and there is a family bathroom. As well as consent to extend there is scope for some updating and improvement.

The gardens and grounds extend to more than 2.5 acres and are mainly laid to lawn around the house with a pond, specimen trees and shrubs. There is a wide terrace on the south-west side. To the front there is further lawn, parking for several vehicles and the estate drive, which continues through a five-bar gate into the park. There is a timber double garage set away from the house which is currently used for storage and there is a delightful detached studio with a veranda and far-reaching views.

AT A GLANCE ERIDGE PARK ERIDGE GREEN � Pretty period home � Set within Eridge Park � Surrounded by beautiful grounds and adjoining parkland � Planning consent to extend � Scope to improve � Reception hall � Drawing room with library area � Cloakroom � Kitchen/dining room � Conservatory � Three bedrooms � Family bathroom � Detached double garage � Parking and drive � Studio with veranda � Attractive gardens and grounds � More than 2.5 acres in all

£1,200,000 For sale through Hamptons 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Tunbridge Wells £750,000 - £775,000 A detached extended family home, in need of some cosmetic updating, situated just a few hundred yards from Dunorlan Park. 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms. Integral garage, parking and gardens. EPC: E

Burwash Weald, Heathfield £765,000 A detached newly built family home situated within an exclusive cul-de-sac backing onto farmland and within 4.7 miles of Etchingham station. 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Gardens and detached double garage.

Southborough £550,000 - £580,000 An extended semi-detached house located on the edge of Southborough village and benefits from a superb open plan living space, 4 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms. Driveway parking, large studio in rear garden. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells £250,000 - £275,000 Occupying a pleasant elevated position within the High Brooms area, close to the mainline station, a refurbished semi-detached house. 2 reception rooms, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, upstairs bathroom. Enclosed rear garden. No onward chain. EPC: E

••• ••• •••

Tunbridge Wells Monthly Rental £2,200 An incredibly spacious Grade II Listed first floor maisonette ( 1668 sq.ft.) offering versatile accommodation with large hall, 2/3 reception rooms,% bedrooms (one en suite) and bathroom. Off road parking for 2/3 cars. Offers unfurnished and available now. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells Monthly Rental £950 An immaculate I bedroom ground floor apartment located off Mount Ephraim, recently redecorated and benefits from 24 hour CCTV monitoring of the ground floor, heating, water & sewerage included. Off road parking for I car. EPC: D

� PROPERTY SECTION

Period semi-detached house up the hill from Sevenoaks Station T HIS semi-detached Victorian house, set in a convenient location for Sevenoaks mainline station, offers spacious and versatile accommodation. With period features including fireplaces, sash windows and radiator covers, the property has been thoughtfully extended to make the most from its plot.

Ground floor accommodation comprises an entrance hall, cloakroom, drawing room with bay window and fireplace, family room, openplan dining/sitting rooms and kitchen. Both the sitting area and the kitchen feature glazed double doors opening out into the garden. Arranged on the first floor is the double aspect

BRADBOURNE ROAD SEVENOAKS

£875,000

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

master bedroom with accompanying en-suite shower room. There are three further bedrooms, one of which features a fireplace, and a wellappointed family bathroom completes the accommodation. The property is approached over a driveway providing ample off-road parking. There is a

raised flower bed to the front and there are steps leading up to the portico entrance of the house. The rear garden has been landscaped and features a paved terrace ideal for al fresco entertaining. The garden also benefits from a combined office and shed with decking to the front and a children’s Wendy house.

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE n Attractive Victorian semi-detached

n Open-plan sitting and dining areas

n Convenient location

n Open to the kitchen

n Period features

n Master bedroom with en-suite shower room

n Modernised throughout

n Three further bedrooms

n Entrance hall

n Family bathroom

n Cloakroom

n Garden store and office

n Drawing room

n Off-road parking

n Family room

n Landscaped gardens

£875,000 For sale through Savills 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

‘The garden benefits from an office and shed with decking and a Wendy house’

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

 PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment AT A GLANCE

PRINCES STREET

� Semi-detached Victorian property

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

� Beautifully modernised

£725,000

� Over three floors

� Period features � Entrance hall � Sitting room � Dining room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Cloakroom � Master bedroom with en-suite shower room � Further first floor bedroom � Two bedrooms on top floor � Family bathroom

£725,000 For sale through Hamptons 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

‘There is a further first floor bedroom to the rear and there are two more bedrooms with a lovely family bathroom on the top floor’

Highly desirable Victorian house over three floors

HIS spacious and well presented semi-detached Victorian house is situated in a convenient and popular central location in Tunbridge Wells. Beautifully modernised, with many period features throughout and fitted shutters, the property boasts a ground floor extension and bright, airy accommodation over three floors.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Entered from the side, there is an entrance hall with solid wood floor, cloakroom and understairs storage. At the front of the house is a sitting room that has a fireplace with wood-burning stove and built-in shelving and cupboards either side of the chimney breast. A dining room leads through to an excellent kitchen/breakfast room which is well fitted

with a range of units and has French doors opening on to the garden. The kitchen has excellent roof windows allowing natural light into the room. On the first floor, the principal bedroom has fitted cupboards, a feature fireplace and an en-suite shower room. There is a further first floor bedroom to the rear and there are

two more bedrooms with a lovely family bathroom on the top floor. Outside, a shared driveway leads from the pavement to the front door and provides potential off-street parking for a small car. To the rear, a timber decked terrace adjoins the house and the garden, which is south facing, is mainly laid to lawn with a timber shed.

ose

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Contact your local independent Estate Agent for expert help Tonbridge 01732 771616 Pembury 01892 822880

BarnesKingsnorth

••

•

iJl1iFLY PROPERTIES

BY CAROL PRIER

This attractive and surprisingly spacious detached family home with 3 double bedrooms has been well designed and tastefully decorated. Situated in a most popular residential area on the edge of Paddock Wood but still convenient for schools, a wide range of shops and Paddock Wood main line railway station. EPC: D

The Forge is simply stunning and we ll positioned with versatile accommodation comprising entrance hall, cloakroom, sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room and large dining/fa mily room. To the first floor, master bedroom with en su ite, 3 further bedrooms and family bathroom offering a 'Jack and Jill' combination to the guest bedroom. EPC: E

Nestled in the idyllic historic village of Bodiam, presented in the purest form for a Grade II listed period home, set out over three floors, offering a large inglenook fireplace with wood burning stove, farmhou se kitchen, small conservatory. The first floor offers a large landing area, two bedrooms and modern bathroom. To the second floor double bedroom with far reaching views. Beautiful gardens and ample parking to the front. NO CHAIN.

A beautifully located property in the favoured village of Matfield (Village of the Year) offering rural aspect to front and rear, stands in grounds in excess of two acres - accommodation comprising three receptions, four bedrooms to include master bedroom with en suite, attached triple garage which has potential, subject to planning, to convert to 'annex or workshop'. NO CHAIN EPC: F

Avery smart detached family home, light and airy accommodation comprising entrance hall, cloakroom, spacious sitting/dining room and kitchen. To the first floor, four bedrooms and a bathroom. Off road parking and detached garage. EPC: D

Extended and beautifully presented 3/4 bedroom se midetached famil y home situated on a corner plot with a charming garden, garage and driveway. The ve rsatile accommodation comprises entrance hall, cloakroom, study/ bedroom 4, sitting room, kitchen/dining room, 3 bedrooms, and bathroom. EPC: C

light and spacious one bedroom ground floor apartment within a converted Victorian chapel offering a small courtyard to the rear. Excellent room sizes · in need of updating. The main photo is the front of the property and the apartment is situated to the rea r. NO CHAIN EPC: D

Stunning 4 bedroom detached family home with spacious accommodation comprising entrance hall, cloakroom,superb family kitchen/breakfast room, separate dining room, large sitting room, master bedroom to first floor with en su ite and 2 further double bedrooms, family bathroom. To the second floor, guest bedroom suite with dressing room and en su ite shower. EPC: C

Chartfield was built circa 1969 commanding a large plot with far reaching views to the front out across the North Weald. The property has been cared for and maintained over recent years to provide excellent accommodation comprising entrance hall, large sitting room, separate dining room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom with separate WC, kitchen/breakfast room and utility which has been put on as an addition in recent years. EPC: E

Stunning 4 bedroom detached family home with an extensive ground floor extension of contemporary design 1,662 sq ft of accommodation, cloakroom, 3 receptions, 4/5 bedrooms, se parate utility and garage storage. Views to the front and good size garden to the rear. EPC: E

PROPERTY SECTION ďż˝

ON Loch Training's Hand on Heart Valentine's Day

to the Pantiles and Loch Training is providing free

event led to many people taking advantage of

training to ensure that staff from businesses in the

their expertise to learn how to save a life with free

Pantiles can help with any emergency . A big thank

CPR training. The event sponsored by Rentlocally

also to Sankey's Champagne and Seafood Bar for

and Loch Training was aimed at highlighting

hosting the event on Valentine's Day and to the

the importance of learning this vital life skill.

Tunbridge Wells Hotel who will be providing a home

Rentlocally has also kindly donated a Defibrillator

for the Defibrillator.

WHAT MAKES

OUR TRANSPARENT UNDERSTANDING WE l<NOW WHAT LANDLORDS WANT OUT OF THEIR

US BETTER?

PROPERTIES AND WHAT OUR TENANTS ARE LOOl<ING FOR IN A NEW HOME

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

SPEAK TO US DIRECT BY PHONE OR EMAIL:

www.rentlocally.co.uk

ka nds@rentlocally.co.u k 01892 841040

The Better Letting People

Description: Good use of underdeveloped land Type:

Any size and number of units

Location:

Anywhere in the South East

If you have been refused planning permission for what on the face of it would seem a reasonable application, SJD Projects may be able to assist. Through our network of developers and investors, we have been instrumental in achieving planning on sites that otherwise have not achieved their full potential. For a no obligation assessment please contact our offices on our freephone number 0845 456 8969.

Mobile: 0773 951 4350 Website: sjd-projects.com

LAND & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS

Freephone: 0845 456 8969 Email: steve@sjd-projects.com f

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

Your local independent Estate Agent

1kMJProperty

...contactable 7 days a week

NI TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£295,000 - £310,000

3 bedroom semi-detached house with driveway; Lounge with box bay window to front, open plan kitchen/ dining room , 3 bedrooms and a modern upstairs bathroom with bath and separate shower cubicle. Double glazing, gas fired heating and rear garden. EPC E.

2 bedroom end of terrace cottage in the popular St. John's area ofTunbridge Wells. Lounge, kitchen/ diner, two bedrooms and upstairs bathroom . The property also benefits from double glazing, gas fired heating , wood burner and gardens. EPC D

3 Bedroom detached house close to the Local amenities, two reception rooms plus conservatory, downstairs bathroom and upstairs W.C., EPC tbc.

2 bedroom end of terrace cottage in popular toad rock area with off road parking, requiring some updating, Lounge, kitchen/ dining room, downstairs bathroom and 2 bedrooms. Property also benefits from a rear garden, DG & GFH. EPC E

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THE LETTINGS & MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The perfect combination of village and country living The Old Vicarage is an impressive and very attractive Grade II* early Georgian House. The house is of red brick and has 3 bay windows with a hipped roof, and a doorway and windows with quoined surrounds. Located on the High Street and a short distance from Wadhurst Station, The Old Vicarage is ideally suited for all the convenience of modern living but also enjoys a wonderful rural outlook over its own land. This gives the property a peaceful and secluded setting whilst also being highly convenient. The house has the classic features of its era - wide floorboards, beautifully proportioned windows, excellent ceiling heights and original panelling to some rooms. The elegant yew staircase in the reception hall is in the Chinese Chippendale style. All the reception rooms are of impressive proportions for entertaining or family use. The bedroom accommodation is laid out with four bedrooms on the first floor as well as an elegant yew-panelled study with four more bedrooms and two bathrooms on the second floor. Leading from the double drawing room, a terrace leads to the walled garden with a swimming pool in the westerly corner adjacent to which is the pool house with changing rooms and a studio/office above. The walled garden is attractive with extensive lawns and borders and a pond with a fountain as well as an orchard. There is a superb view towards the church from the garden, and a pillared gate leading to a large field, over which the house enjoys a lovely outlook. To the northeast is another large field. In all about 9.27 acres. Available by separate negotiation is The Coach House which has sitting room, kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom, two garages and its own garden. LOCATION INFORMATION

Tunbridge Wells 7 miles, Central London 48 miles, Wadhurst station (1.3 miles) (all distances are approximate)

High Street, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 Guide Price ÂŁ2,850,000 8 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 4 bathrooms, 625.1 sqm, 6,728 sqft, Period, Garden, Land, Listed, Secondary accommodation, Swimming Pool, Private Parking, 9.27 acres (3.75 hectares) KnightFrank.co.uk/tunbridge-wells tunwells@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

Owning your first home should feel like a dream come true. Make sure it's somewhere you'll always look forward to coming home to by opting for the quality, comfort, and convenience of Knights Wood.

. . Knight ~ Frank

Knights Wood offers a variety of exceptional new homes in a peaceful woodland setting in Royal Tunbridge Wells. Our marketing suite is open daily from 1Oam to 5pm, so come and visit us to see for yourself the great choices on offer. Alternatively, call us on 01892 800580.

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

dandara

new homes

Shipbourne, Kent Borough Green station 4 miles, Hildenborough station 4 miles, Sevenoaks 8 miles, Tonbridge 4 miles

An attractive and well presented detached family house superbly situated within a totally private location in the centre of the village with wonderful garden and grounds and truly outstanding views Entrance hall I Draw ing room I Dining room I Study I Conservatory Garden room I Kitchen/breakfast room I Larder I Utility room Bathroom I Master suite and Guest Suite with en-suite and dressing room/study I Two further double bedrooms Cloakroom Large walk in attic space I Detached double garage I Brick stable block I Formal gardens and grounds

Guide Price ÂŁ1,350,000 Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker.com

Stansted, Kent Borough Green Station 4.3 miles, Ebbsfleet International Station 9.9 miles, Sevenoaks 7.7 miles, M20/M26 3.9 miles

An attractive period property in a picturesque rural location on the outskirts of a popular village. Entrance Porch I Dining Room I Kitchen/breakfast room I Utility Room I Cloakroom I Sitting Room I Family Bathroom I Master bedroom with en-suite I Double Bedroom I 2 further interlinking bedrooms I Box Room/Attic Store

Guide Price ÂŁ925,000 Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker.com

Sevenoaks, Kent Sevenoaks town 1.1 miles, Sevenoaks station 0.9 miles, Otford 2.4 miles, M25/A21 Interchange 2.5 miles,

A handsome Georgian townhouse within striking distance of Sevenoaks town and station with off-road parking, a secluded southfacing garden and planning permission for a kitchen extension. Entrance Hall I Sitting Room I Dining Room I Kitchen I Cellar Two double bedrooms I Family bathroom I Outside W/C I Two outhouses I Off street parking

Guide Price ÂŁ475,000 Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker. corn

Hawkhurst, Kent Tunbridge Wells 12 miles, Cranbrook 5 miles, Hawkhurst 1.5 miles, Staplehurst Station 10 miles, Etchingham Station 4 miles

A most attractive period cottage with a wealth of charm and character situated in a picturesque rural location within the catchment area of Cranbrook School. Entrance porch I Sitting/dining room I Kitchen/breakfast room Family bathroom I Family room I Study/bedroom 3 I Master bedroom with ensuite I Double bedroom I Studio/office I Single garage Workshop/store room

Guide Price ÂŁ525,000 Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker. corn

 PROPERTY SECTION

OLD VICARAGE RUSTHALL ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£2,650 PER MONTH

Spacious character home set back from Rusthall Common

HE Old Vicarage is a charming double fronted detached Victorian house located in a delightful position, set back from Rusthall Common within the conservation area. The property offers well presented and flexible accommodation arranged over three floors with period features in various rooms including sash windows, picture rails, dado rails, exposed wooden floorboards and cast iron fireplaces. Available to let unfurnished, the accommodation on the ground floor comprises an entrance hall, elegant drawing room with additional reception area, dining room and family room/study. Off the dining room is a good sized contemporary

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

kitchen/breakfast room. A useful utility room/cloakroom completes this floor. Upstairs, the principal bedroom has a dressing room and there are four further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. A second bathroom can be found on the lower ground floor. Wooden front gates open on to a paved driveway with off-road parking. A brick path leads to the side and on to the manageable rear garden, which is mainly laid to lawn with mature shrub borders and a shed. Two cellar storerooms on the lower ground floor, the loft and the garage are not included in the agreement.

‘Period features include sash windows, picture rails, wooden floorboards and cast iron fireplaces’

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE n Attractive period home

n Utility/cloakroom

n Lovely setting within a conservation area

n Cellar with second bathroom

n Close to schools n Entrance hall n Drawing room with additional reception area

n Master bedroom with dressing room n Four further double bedrooms n Family bathroom

n Family room/study

n Off-road parking

n Dining room

n Manageable rear garden

n Modern kitchen/breakfast room

n To let unfurnished

£2,650 per month To let through Savills Lettings 01892 507050 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

NEW HOMES AND LETTINGS MOVE I 1:1.m~~

WEDDING FEATURE �

JUST MARRIED Ashley and Rhiannan are showered with confetti

TOP TIPS FOR TYING THE KNOT RHIANNON OFFERS SOME HANDY ADVICE ON HOW TO BRING THE BIG DAY OF YOUR DREAMS TO LIFE Delegate where you can. Many a 1 long night can happen if you keep everything to yourself, especially if you are planning a DIY wedding like we did

Document the planning stages, and keep back one invite, one favour, appointment cards and RSVPs, etc, to look through in years to come

GOOD LUCK MUM Toby kisses the bride

Be clear with the bridal party about what you want them to help you with, and check with them that they are happy to do this and can allocate the time required. Ensure the people that really want to help do get involved – it means a lot to them and takes things off your to-do list

Involve the groom! Bizarrely, they like to be a part of certain things. Ashley was a whizz at making the wedding favours!

Vision boards are great; I had two flipchart sheets up on my bedroom door, and anytime I saw a photo or picture I would cut these out and pin them up. This suits people who don’t have the likes of Pinterest, etc, and like to see how everything comes together

BRIDAL PARTY Rhiannon (right) with bridesmaids Megan (left) and Joanna (centre)

added a few extra bits to my dress without any issue. As we wanted to make everything ourselves (where we could), we spent £80 on flowers from a florist in Tonbridge, and my nan and I made up the jars for the tables, full of daffs the day before. My nan also made the bouquets and my aunt made our wedding cake, so both very personal,

tying in perfectly with the theme. We had a naked cake covered in fruit and flowers, beautifully made by Diane. Ashley’s suit was from Moss Bros in Bluewater; a stunning blue, which was exactly what he wanted. We didn’t want to go down the top hat and tails route, so we told everyone in the bridal party they could wear what they wanted, apart from

the bridesmaids, who all wore dresses from BHS. This meant everyone was comfortable and unique; a big thing for us. Finally, describe your partner in five words Generous, selfless, thoughtful, family orientated, laid back.

WEDDING CAR Marty the VW campervan

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

70 � FOOD AND DRINK

A real hive of activity

Bees are in decline which means the honey industry is under huge threat. A local beekeeper tells us why he is determined to make a difference... CAUSING A BUZZ Fight to save the honey bee

Neill Barston nbarston@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

ID you know that around a third of our supermarket shelves would be empty were it not for the humble honey bee? From traditional runny honeys to lavender infused varieties, we Brits love our honey. Its production contributes a whopping £651 million to the UK’s economy but there is now serious concern over the dramatic decline of the 24 different varieties of UK bees that produce it. Environmentalists such as the Soil Association have warned that the use of agricultural pesticides such as neonicotinoid, coupled with the fact we have less wild flowers in our fields for bees to feed on and milder winters have placed huge strain on the population. Some bee and honey lovers are so concerned they have now taken it upon themselves to start keeping bees in order to combat the crisis. Local insurance firm AXA has commissioned bee hives for its employees’ while many residents of Tunbridge Wells are setting

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

up their own hives in their gardens. Yet despite these enthusiastic enterprises Peter Hutton, the President of the Tunbridge Wells branch of the Kent Beekeepers’ Association has warned there is still more to be done. He explained this year has been particularly difficult given the unseasonably mild weather which has threatened his colonies of bees. “We have seen some changes in the environment that I’ve never experienced before. In winter bees are supposed to have a period for a couple of months from around November when they are dormant, but it’s been so mild this has not happened so some of the worker bees have died.

Quality “I have had to do some supplementary feeding for them, but for those who are not experienced beekeepers, they may have lost bees through starvation because of the weather situation,” explained Mr Hutton. But for all its frustrations Mr Hutton admits it has been extremely rewarding to have kept bees for more than 50 years.

“Beekeeping in my family goes right back to my great grandfather on my maternal side. I’ve really enjoyed it, including teaching beginners for about 20 years and I got to a point where I had about 220 bee colonies.” Though he has now retired as a professional keeper, the 73 year-old still farms on a semi-commercial basis, selling a range of honeys including a Tunbridge Wells batch through the Hayesden Herb and Honey Farm near Tonbridge. Mr Hutton uses the British Apis mellifera mellifera bee species, though he believes there is a growing use of overseas bees from countries including Slovenia and Italy as a result of the decline of the British bee. “The honey that we have had from Tunbridge Wells over the past year has been high quality. It’s a clear honey from lime trees, which has a delicate flavour.” He also produces varieties from sweet chestnut trees and raspberry nectar. According to Mr Hutton, the 100-strong membership of the Tunbridge Wells bee keeping group consists of people from all backgrounds. They have used their gardens, farms and also the group’s dedicated apiary bee yard facilities in town to develop their bee-keeping skills. It costs around £200 to set up a hive and start your own colony but Mr Hutton warns that bee keeping isn’t going to secure you a personal fortune. “If I were a bank manager, I think the last person I would lend money to would be a bee keeper! I just about break even. There are so many factors you have to take into consideration.” Secretary of the group, John Farrow, shares Peter Hutton’s passion for the bee business but admits it has become increasingly tougher over the 15 years he has been involved. One of the most complex challenges over the past decade he says has been dealing with the

‘Beekeepers may have lost bees through starvation because of the weather situation’ CONCERNED Mr Hutton

FOOD AND DRINK �

How you can keep Britain Buzzing:  Bees rely on the nectar and pollen from flowers for their survival so make sure your garden is brimming with bee friendly flowers like alliums, bell heather, catmint, camellias, daffodils, dahlias, foxgloves and geraniums. For a full list of bee friendly flowers visit www.bumblebeeconservation. org  If you grow your own then remember chives, cherries, blackcurrants and apples are all loved by bees.  Buy wildlife-friendly organic food and farming through their everyday shopping choices. For more information and tips visit The Soil Association www. thesoilassociation.org

tiny varroa mite, which has decimated many bee colonies. “Another major problem is the loss of wild flower meadows and the accumulation of many systemic pesticides within the hive. “This is more prevalent in the countryside rather than urban bees. It has been shown that there is every class of pesticide, fungicide & herbicides in a colony and in one bee they have found 25 different agrochemicals. The comparison would be like us having a cold and then going down with another infection which would definitely reduce our enthusiasm to go out and forage for our own food.”

The publicity surrounding the decline of bees has definitely boosted the Tunbridge Wells Bee-keepers’ Association’s numbers though Mr Farrow admits that due to the difficult nature of maintaining colonies means that its members have to possess a particularly determined nature to persevere.

Colonies He also feels the spring will bring about a renewed growth in order to help maintain bee colony numbers. Yet despite his optimism, Mr Farrow admits there are a number of issues for the industry.

“The wild bee colonies have diminished dramatically and if we do not have bee keepers maintaining their own colony numbers by splitting them and producing new queen bees their numbers could be at crisis level. This has happened in the USA where they are having to import massive number of bees from Australia.” Though beekeeping clearly has plenty of tests for those involved with it, it seems there are certainly rewards for those who decide to stick with it. For information on upcoming courses, visit www.kentbee.com

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

72 n LIFE AND STYLE

LOCAL COMPANY FOR LOCAL CUSTOMERS In a world of big business and overseas suppliers, Tunbridge Wells Glass Works believes that customers want a more local service that benefits their own community and understands the job at hand.

TRUCKLOADS OF FAMILY FUN THIS EASTER

Most of our employees live in the area and have been with us for many years, and the majority of our suppliers are also based in the South East. Established in 1949, Tunbridge Wells Glass Works has grown in size and services ever since. Founded by Colin and Stella Hamilton, the company helped to repair the damage done by WW2 bombs in the South East and then adapted as the industry changed to be the more energy efficient and safety conscious industry that exists today. Since moving to Tunnel Road in the centre of town, under Ian and Fiona Hamilton, the company has continued to serve the construction industry and private clients with the same values since its founding. Their recent retirement has led to Rob Hamilton, the third generation of the family, taking over this year. The modern glass industry is a very different place today. An improvement in the strength, safety and efficiency of glass has made it commonplace in everyday life. Custom balustrades, shower screens and painted splashbacks that would once only be seen in shopping centres and hotels are now affordable to private customers. Windows and doors have seen also seen vast improvements in technology. Energy efficiency is a modern necessity, whilst their security has improved greatly. Coloured and woodgrain effects are now commonplace and help customers to choose a style in keeping with their house (or eccentricities!) We are happy to help if you have any enquiries so please find us at www.twgw.co.uk, contact us on 01892 522415 or visit us at our shop at 10-12 Tunnel Rd.

ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS WELCOMES CYCLESURGERY Since starting out as a small basement workshop in Islington, London, in 1992, CycleSurgery is proud to launch their 33rd nationwide bike store in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells on Friday 4th March. The Royal Tunbridge Wells store will provide riders of every discipline and experience level with a wide range of professional bike services, the latest products from the world’s leading cycling brands, expert guidance from their friendly and knowledgeable staff who know their bikes and their local area. CycleSurgery would like to welcome you to their official store launch with a 15% discount on all rides, clothing, accessories and components (excluding Brompton) until Monday 14th March 2016. There will also be an area where riders can get their bike fixed, as well as an opportunity to meet our friendly store staff, who can offer you advice on everything from choosing equipment and bike maintenance to training, racing and nutrition. The store will source and stock the most technically-advanced bikes, cutting-edge head protection and stylish, weather-beating clothing from brands such as Trek, Brompton, Kask, Lezyne, Gore, Endura, Giro, Shimano and Mavic. The in-store workshop will also be staffed by Cytech-qualified mechanics who can provide a broad range of services to keep your ride performing like new for longer with free bike health checks and comprehensive tune-ups that give you the ultimate advantage on the road, track or trail. CycleSurgery also provide their own Cycle to Work scheme, 0% Finance options and free Click+Collect delivery, to ensure that you get the best and most affordable deals and the quickest, most convenient customer service. Store launch: CycleSurgery Royal Tunbridge Wells, 95-97 Mount Pleasant Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1QG (9am-5:30pm).

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

A bumper weekend of Easter holiday fun is sure to entertain all of the family at Brands Hatch on 26-28 March, with the opening rounds of the British Truck Racing Championship the star attraction. The giants of motorsport will be in Kent with up to ten thrilling races for the 1,000 horsepower five-tonne beasts. It’s the opening rounds of their 2016 season, so expect to see duelling at up to 100mph and plenty of bumping and barging as the drivers fight for position! The event also includes a huge programme of support races, featuring the best of British motorsport, including a new series for aspiring British Touring Car stars, US-style Pickup Trucks, the Legends Cars Championship for miniature 1930s Hot Rod replicas, plus saloon car races. The excitement continues off the track with a feast of family entertainment set to appeal to all ages. The trucking theme includes a huge display of show trucks, which will also be taking part in a track parade and you can see the racing trucks close-up with a VIP-style gridwalk on Easter Monday. Adrenaline junkies will thrill at the sight of the Swamp Thing Monster Truck unleashing its power on Easter Monday or you can jump on board the Red Dragon Monster Truck for the ultimate joyride, whilst younger fans can take the wheel of the Mini Monster Truck Mania trucks around a dedicated course. There's even a chance to get in the thick of the racing action with go-karts, and there will also be an assortment of fairground rides. Younger racegoers can also enjoy the free Kidspace tent with children's entertainers and activities, including face painting in return for a £1 donation to Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust. There's also a soft play tent for the youngest fans, and an adventure playground will be open all weekend. Tickets to Easter Truck Racing at Brands Hatch are available from £19 with free entry to under-13s and a special teen rate for 13-15 year-olds. For more information call 0843 453 9000 or visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

WITH THE

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

FIRST DRIVE:

O F

T U N B R I D G E

W E L L S

KIA SPORTAGE 1.7 CRDI

By Ed Wiseman WHAT’S NEW? THE Kia Sportage arrived on our roads in 1993 as a boxy, unreliable, utilitarian style vacuum. Kia itself was a newcomer to Britain, peddling budget South Korean cars by the hundred rather than the thousand, and the brand was probably at the bottom of the desirability pile. Two decades later and the fourthgeneration Sportage shows how far the brand and the model have come. More Brits buy Sportages than almost any other SUV, making it one of the brand’s most important models, and Kia itself has worked hard to put the cheerful into cheap. LOOKS AND IMAGE Sophisticated looks aren’t this segment’s strong point, but there’s definitely a bit of Porsche Cayenne in the Sportage if it’s dark and you squint. Overall, it’s a good-looking car, though brown and gold colours give it a slightly reptilian edge. Inside, the Sportage feels more old fashioned. Hard plastics and very conventional design make the model feel unremarkable to occupants. Everything feels rugged but less exotic than the muchimproved exterior. SPACE AND PRACTICALITY The Sportage is roomy, robust and flexible – more so than some competitors – and it feels built to withstand the realities of family life. The back seats are comfy enough for a couple of large adults to travel in comfort and the huge flat-bottomed 491-litre boot would accommodate everyone’s clobber with ease. The Sportage offers more than a suggestion of off-road performance. Four-wheel drive

adds real practicality to this SUV, especially with the button that splits torque equally between the front and rear wheels. This ‘lock mode’, reminiscent of manual diff locks on much older cars, is effective at speeds of up to 25mph. Useful when everyone else at the party is playing muddy dodgems in their front-wheel drive SUVs. BEHIND THE WHEEL It even drives nicely. The 1.7-litre diesel feels like it has much more power than it really does, and the manual gearbox can be fun when you ask it to. Body roll is nicely contained and the ride is fine with all but the very largest alloys. The seven-speed dualclutch automatic gearbox is too

fluffy to express any real sense of urgency when pulling out at junctions. This is true of the 2.0-litre diesel, too, even in the pricey topspec First Edition model. It manages the car’s torque well at low speeds, though, and is at least quite quiet. VALUE FOR MONEY In fact, the pricing makes this a curious model. The car starts at around £18,000, which will buy you a very basic – but still perfectly adequate – SUV. At the other end of the scale, the £33,000 First Edition has all the bells and whistles (including the underwhelming auto ’box) but competes with badges like Land Rover and Audi. The ‘best’ Sportage is probably the manual 1.7-litre diesel in KX-4 trim, but at around £30,000 many will head in the direction of a premium competitor. In short, the mid-range Sportages are excellent value, while at the top and bottom ends of the pricing structure, buyers are starting to make compromises. WHO WOULD BUY ONE? This is a car for someone who isn’t bothered by brands. The Kia Sportage will be a hugely popular car, mainly among people who want to pay between £20,000 and £30,000 for a big, roomy, family barge. It’s hard to recommend the most expensive Sportages, as they’re up against some seriously good alternatives, but a mid-range four-wheel drive model will be all the car most families will ever need.

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD: Generalist. IF THIS CAR WAS A... pair of trousers it would be cheap beige chinos. Nothing fancy, but passable for most purposes.

FACTS AT A GLANCE PRICE: Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDi six-speed manual, from £19,745 ENGINE: 1.7-litre diesel producing 114bhp TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual

PERFORMANCE: Top speed 109mph, 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 61.4mpg combined EMISSIONS: 119g/km

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

74 n MOTORS

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CITROEN prefers TOTAL Offer applies to retail sales of qualifying models ordered & delivered 04/01-31/03/2016 or until such time as offers/prices may be withdrawn by Citroen at its complete discretion & include VAT, delivery to dealer & number plates, Government Registration Fee & 12 months' graduated vehicle excise duty. 'Citroen SimplyDrive 3 year Personal Contract Purchase offer available on a ll Citroen C1 models . A deposit is required followed by 35 monthly payments, with an optional final payment at the end of the contract. Excess mileage charges will apply if you exceed the agreed ann ual mileage. A guarantee may be required . Over 18s o nly. Finance provided by & written quotations available on request from PSA Finance UK limited [company registration number 01024322) t/a Citroen Financial Services, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1QA, UK. Citroen Financial Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Thames Motor Group (Tunbridge Wells) Ltd is acting as a credit broker & is not a lender. To finance you r purchase we will only introduce you to Citroen Financial Services, the exclusive provider of SimplyDrive. ooThe first year's Road Fund licence (RFL) is provided with the car. Vehicle tax is charged at a ra te of £0 for Citroen C1 as it falls within vehicle tax band A. The customer must apply for years 2 & 3 RFL. Citroen SimplyDrive is subject to status. +M inimum age 18, maximum age 75. DRIVERS ARE REQUIRED TO INSTALL THE TELEMATICS BOX & CONSENT TO DATA CAPTURE & TRANSMISSION TO QUALIFY FOR INSURANCE. All drivers must hold a full UK licence & meet eligibility criteria including limits on driving convictions & claims. INSURANCE SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION IF YOU RECEIVE FOUR WARNINGS FOR POOR DRIVING. Excesses apply. 3 years motor insurance is provided and underwritten by U K Insurance Limited , which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Payments will vary according to age, post code & annual mileage. The costs of insurance, servicing & Roadside Assistance a re included within the monthly cost of Citroen SimplyDrive but are provided on a monthly pay-as-you-go basis & can be cancelled at any time without penalty or affecting the remainder of the Citroen SimplyDrive contract . Routine servicing included, excludes wear parts. Offers & specification correct at time of going to press from participati ng Dealers . Terms & conditions apply. Please as k us for details. Subject to stock availability.

Official Government fuel consumption figures (Range): Urban cycle, Extra urban, Combined (litres per 100km/mpg) & C0 2 emissions (g/km); Highest: Citroen C1 PureTech 82 manual 5.4/52.3, 3.7/76.3, 4.3/65.7, 99. Lowest: Citroen C1 VTi 68 S&S manual 4 .5/62.8, 3.4/83 .1, 3.8/74.3, 88. MPG figures are achieved under official EU test conditions, intended as a guide for comparative purposes only, and may not reflect actual on-the-road driving conditions.

THAMES MOTOR GROUP 01892 549766 NORTH FARM INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT, TN2 3EY www.thamestunbridgewells.citroen.co.uk

Model shown New Jeep Cherokee 2.2 Night Eagle 4WD 9 Speed Automatic at £37,445 DTR including Metallic Paint OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE NEW JEEP® CHEROKEE DIESEL RANGE IN MPG [L/lOOKM): EXTRA URBAN 53.3 [5 .3) - 61.4 [4.6). URBAN 37.7 [7 .5) - 44.1 [6.4). COMBINED 46.3 [6 .1) - 53.3 [5.3). C01 EMISSIONS: 160 TD 139 G/KM. 'Customer deposit is £4,649. Jeep Deposit is £4000. Total Deposit is £8,649. Optional Final Payment is £11,863.ContractTerm is 48 months. Promotion available on new Cherokee 1.1 Night Eagle 4WD 9Speed Automatic registered by 31st March 1016. Jeep Deposit Contribution only available in conjunction with Jeep Horizon PCP. With Jeep Horizon you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage [a charge of 11p per mile for exceeding 10,000 miles per annum in this example] and being in good condition. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. Jeep Financial Services, PO Box 4465, Slough, Sll ORW. Jeep®is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

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FIAT DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION £500*

FIAT DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION £1,000*

FIAT DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION UP TO £2,000*

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

THAMES MOTOR GROUP TUNBRIDGE WELLS, LONGFIELD ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 3EV. TEL: 01892 256074 WWW.THAMESMOTORGROUP.CO.UK

5.9°/o APR

REPRESENTATIVE

Fuel consumption figures for new Fiat Range in mpg (11100km): Urban 29.7 (9.5)-68.9 (4.1); Extra Urban 46.3 (6.1)-97.4 (2.9); Combined 38.2 (7.4)83.1 (3.4). C02 emissions 171 - 88 g/km. Fuel consumption and co, figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Promotion available on new Fiat models registered from 15th February to 31 st March 2016. •£500 deposit contribution on New Fiat 500 Series 4 models, £1,000 deposit contribution on Fiat 500L models and up to £2000 deposit contribution on Fiat 500X models. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. Retail customers only. With Fiat i-Deal you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage and being in good condition. Deposit Contribution is only available in conjunction with 'Fiat i-Deal No Pay Drive Away'. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. At participating Dealers only. Fiat Financial Services, PO BOX 4465, Slough, SL1 ORW. All vehicle images are for illustration purposes only and may include options or body paint colours, which incur an additional cost. We work with a number of creditors including Fiat Financial Services.

76  MOTORING

The new Eagle has landed BRITISH car builder Eagle have announced a third model to join their range of E-Type based hand-built sports cars, called the Spyder GT. Joining the Eagle Speedster and the Low Drag GT, the Spyder GT incorporates elements of both to give the stunning drop-top looks of the Speedster, but with greater practicality, as well as a folding fabric roof for all-weather use. Each of the Spyder GT examples produced will be completely bespoke and to the customer’s exact requirements, including powertrain, suspension and interior finishes. Paul Brace, Design Director at Eagle

explained: “Development of the Spyder GT began soon after the launch of the Speedster in 2011 and, like everything we produce, we wanted to ensure that we got as close to perfection as humanly possible. “We’re renowned for being perfectionists and our clients are too – so we took the time to develop and deliver an

E-Type that stands proud alongside the Speedster and the Low Drag GT.” Eagle also buys and sells original E-Types, as well as offering comprehensively restored and upgraded original cars that are sold as Eagle E-Types. THE SPYDER GT The car will be completely bespoke

‘We wanted to ensure that we got as close to perfection as humanly possible’

Charity is child’s campaign play FORGET futuristic engines and big touch-screens; the ideal car should run on magic and contain a swimming pool, according to a sample of 6 to 12 year olds who were quizzed to mark the start of a new charity partnership - and a unique Bentley giveaway. A thousand children were asked what they felt their perfect car should be like, with almost 39% wanting it to fly, 16% requesting that it run on magic and 10% wanting power to come from hamsters running in wheels. One in five of the cheeky sample reckoned bean bags would make the best seats, while 18% opted for marshmallows instead. An optimistic 14% would like to sit on clouds. The silly survey marks the start of a charity partnership between Bentley and Care2Save, called the Bentley by Me campaign. UK residents have the chance to win a Bentley Continental GT V8 for donations as little as £1, but sadly, it won’t come with wings or marshmallow seats.

Instead, the winner will be able to customise their new hyper-luxury wheels from Bentley’s extensive palette of interior trim styles and exterior paint shades. Bentley by Me hopes to raise money to provide much-needed palliative care around the world, for people who couldn’t otherwise access it. Andrea Ladeira, the founder and CEO of the Care2Save Charitable Trust, said: “Although we had great fun asking children to describe their ideal vehicle and the campaign is a brilliant opportunity for someone to win their very own dream car, there is a very serious message behind all of this. “Each year, 40 million people of all ages around the world will need palliative care – but 34.4 million won’t receive the care they need. The Care2Save Trust and Bentley Motors have teamed up because we want to address this global issue and make a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people in need of help.” To find out more about how to donate and be in with a chance of winning a Bentley, visit www.care2save.co.uk/Bentley.

Custom design your beautiful new BMW M2 coupé with a range of accessories AERODYNAMIC Performanceenhancing elements can be added

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

‘The M2 coupé will be available in April this year’

BMW’S latest performance car hasn’t even reached the shelves yet, but the German manufacturer is already offering a series of upgrades for its newest offering. The M2 Coupe will reach the UK in April this year, but BMW has announced a range of M Performance accessories that can be specified and fitted direct from the dealer. Mechanical enhancements include a performance exhaust with a choice of carbon fibre or high-gloss finishes and a two-stage setting for even better sounds. Uprated brake pads for track work are also available, as are a set of optional coil springs that lower the car by as much as 20mm over standard. Outside there are a series of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) elements that can be added, including a front splitter, side skirts and a rear diffuser, all of which BMW says improves aerodynamic performance. Inside, you can specify elements like LED door inserts, steel pedal covers and M Performance floor mats, while you can also choose from two steering wheels, one of which includes a data screen at the top of the rim.

MOTORS n

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 , --~

with us

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

www.h-engineering.com

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km) for the all-new Mazda MX-5 range: Urban 30.4 (9.3) - 35.8 (7.9). Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) - 57.6 (4.9). Combined 40.9 (6.9) - 47.1 (6.0). COz emissions (g/km) 161 -139. Th e mpg figures quoted are sourced from off icial EU-regulated test results ob ta ined through laboratory testing. The se are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual dri vi ng results. Retail sales only, subject to vehicle avai lability for vehicles registered between 22.12.15 and 31.03.16 at participating dealers. T&C apply. *0% APR Mazda Conditional Sale available on all all-new Mazda MX-5 Spo rt Recaro models over 12, 24 or 36 months wi th 50% minimum deposit required. You will not own the vehicle until all payments are made. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee/indemnity may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH11SR. Model shown: all -new Mazda MX-5160ps Spo rt Recaro, OTR £24,295. Model shown features optional Ceramic Metallic paint. OTR pr ice includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months' road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warran t y and 3 years · European Roadside Assistance. Details correct at time of deployment. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Cambria automobiles pie, trading as lnvicta Mazda is a credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

78  TRAVEL EXOTIC ADVENTURES Travel in comfort to far-flung shores

Small ship discovery cruising VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY WHEN you choose to cruise with Voyages of Discovery you are choosing to discover the world your way and setting sail on the adventure of a lifetime. We have created journeys that you’ll never forget to incredible destinations all over the world, from exotic and tropical shores to ancient and historic ports. Wherever you go, our small ship Voyager takes you to the heart of your destination in comfort and stays in port longer so you can explore not only the iconic sites but also the treasures off the beaten track. On board

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

there’s a really relaxed atmosphere, with just 540 passengers joining you on your journey alongside our friendly crew’ for whom nothing’s too much trouble. You’ll find great facilities on board ‘too, including two restaurants serving fabulous food, four bars, a library, fitness centre, spa and much more. During days at sea you can do exactly what you want, whether that’s unwinding by the pool, learning a new skill in a creative class or listening to one of our Guest Speaker lectures – they are great characters who love to share their insights and adventures with you. In the evenings we host

deck parties, hold classical recitals and invite local musicians to come on board to entertain you, so there’s never a dull moment. When the ship arrives in port it’s still completely up to you what you do. Of course there’s always a carefully arranged choice of optional shore excursions for you to join if you like’ but if you want to head off and do your own thing or stay on board the decision is all yours – flexibility is the key to making your holiday perfect for you. Here at Voyages of Discovery we like to think that what we offer comes with surprisingly

good value. As well as all your meals and entertainment on board Voyager, also included are your fare are flights and overseas transfers, all your port and pre-paid airport taxes and onboard service charges, so there’s nothing to worry about. There are also plenty of optional extras that help to make your cruise even more special – a chauffeur service, port parking and the chance to tailor your cruise with a pre- or post-cruise extension’ to name but a few. With all this and more’ it’s so easy to discover the world your way – we are just here to help you to do it.

TRAVEL 

SWAN HELLENIC STIMULATING, informative, relaxing, sociable – just some of the words our passengers have used when describing the Swan Hellenic experience. A cruise aboard Minerva is like nothing else, with meticulous attention to the finest details and with a quality and charm that is simply unique. In the company of approachable and expert Guest Speakers, you travel to the world’s cultural an graphical highlights to truly uncover the soul of each destination. Minerva also calls at smaller and less visited ports, where you can stay longer and escape the crowds associated with larger vessels. Throughout your cruise, you can engage with likeminded fellow passengers, who share your thirst for knowledge and an appreciation of the finest standards of service. When you return home, you will be as fulfilled and rewarded as you are relaxed. In the style of a country house hotel, Minerva’s accommodations are elegant and understated with spacious lounges and comfortable bars. Long-serving, friendly staff look after your every need and ensure your cruise meets or surpasses every expectation.

Each Swan Hellenic cruise offers unrivalled value for money with so much included in your standard cruise fare.

ALL MEALS INCLUDED – OPEN SEAT DINING Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in a choice of two restaurants. Morning coffee and afternoon tea are served daily, while com plimentary tea and coffee will be available in the Veranda Restaurant daily from 6am-10pm.

FLIGHTS AND OVERSEAS AIRPORT TRANSFERS Economy flights (where applicable) and transfers to and from Minerva are included in your fare.

PORT TAXES AND VISAS Swan Hellenic pays all port taxes on your behalf. Visas, where applicable and arranged locally, are included, although there are some exceptions. See General Information for full visa details.

ON-BOARD ELEGANCE At a price where much is included

ALL GRATUITIES ON BOARD AND ASHORE

COMPLIMENTARY CHAUFFEUR SERVICE

No further tipping of waiters, stewardesses, hairdressers, porters, drivers and guides is expected or required. Swan Hellenic arranges all porterage of your luggage from the port to your cabin.

On all cruises, passengers booking selected cabins (category A-C) receive a complimentary return chauffeur service within 75 miles of Portsmouth or your departing UK airport (London or Manchester only). For passengers living further away, excess mileage charges will apply, please see our terms and conditions for further details.

CAPTAIN’S GALA NIGHTS

TIPS & TAXES, ALL TAKEN CARE OF

Two gala nights are held per 15-day cruise, including complimentary cocktail parties with the Captain, ship’s officers and Swan Hellenic staff. Complimentary wine is served with the á la carte menus on gala nights.

To make your trip as relaxed as possible, we take care of all your port and pre-paid airport taxes, including them in the price of your cruise. It also covers all your on-board service charges, so you don’t have to give them a second thought once we sail. There’s something very special about choosing a cruise. You’re not just escaping the everyday, or heading for places you’ve always wanted to eplore. It’s more than that. You’re choosing a ship to take you across oceans, broaden your horizons and be your perfect home from home. At Swan Hellenic we’re proud to take up that challenge, bringing you award-winning service at rather surprising prices. Join us in 2015, 2016 or 2017 for a cruise experience that has set Swan Hellenic apart for more than 60 years, and that continues to set the benchmark for those with a mind to travel.

PORTERAGE OF LUGGAGE

A SELECTION OF ENGAGING ONBOARD ACTIVITIES Depending on the individual cruise itinerary, on-board activities might include art, bridge or choral workshops, photography, yoga or tai chi classes. In the evenings, enjoy a carefully selected programme of refined entertainment before and after dinner.

GUEST SPEAKERS Enjoy excellent company as you travel with our expert Guest Speakers ‘who give fascinating insights into the essence of each destination.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

80 � RECRUITMENT

WITH THE

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

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND SEVENOAKS

RECRUITMENT �

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

Fill your vacancy now in print or online For more information contact

Jordanne Reville jreville@markerstudy.com 01892 576049

Term Time Teachers • Teachers, TAs & support staff required for

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND SEVENOAKS

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

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

Experienced Brand Ambassadors/Promotional Models Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, Kent £10 p/h We are looking for stars to join our team One Media and Creative UK Ltd are an exciting, innovative, creative publishing company based in Tunbridge Wells. We are looking for experienced, enthusiastic, hard-working and intelligent promotional people to join our team as Brand Ambassadors and Promoters. The job will involve engaging with the public in a confident and comfortable manner, you will need to embody our corporate identity in appearance, demeanour, values and ethics.

The requirements for the role are: • Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills • Enjoy early mornings • Confident and likeable personality • Willing to travel • Enthusiastic and energetic • Comfortable working outside • Able to interact and engage with people • Well spoken

• Punctual and reliable • Smart and well presented (branded jackets provided) Regular weekly hours/projects available along with additional hours at short notice. If you feel you have the right attributes to become an addition to our team, then please apply now by sending a covering letter, as well as your CV to info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Receptionist - BMW

BMW Motorcycle (Motorrad) Technician - Tunbridge Wells

Product Genius

Vehicle Technician

Role Requirements

To be a success in this role, you will have:

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal • IT literacy • Incredible customer service skills • The ability to multi task and work under pressure • A friendly and approachable manner. This is a Full Time position, based on 40 hours per week. The hours of work would be Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm.

• The knowledge to use modern diagnostic equipment • The capability of working to the highest quality standards • Great team player and communication skills • Maintain high standards of housekeeping • Prior experience of working to efficiency targets • A full UK driving license • Main dealer experience preferable but not essential • Experience in the brand would be an advantage • VOSA approved MOT tester also an advantage but not essential • Time served or hold NVQ qualifications to Level 3

• Enthusiasm for excellent customer service. • Passion for automotive technology. • Strong presentation skills. • Ability to work autonomously. • Team orientated personality. • Excellent communication skills. • Keen to keep-up-to-date with innovations and complex/ technical/product information. • Strong organisational and prioritisation skills. • Always willing to help and support to others. • Good knowledge of computer applications (MS Office).

Gareth Cornell / Head of Business | Tel: 01892 548877 | Gareth.Cornell@inchcape.co.uk If you are looking to work in schools in Kent, East/West Sussex, we would like to hear from you. email office@termtimeteachers.co.uk or call 01892 676076 Wednesday 2nd March 2016

FOOD AND DRINK 

Living the dream at Casa Da Claudia Situated in the cobbled Castle Street at the bottom of the town, Casa Da Claudia offers a range of mouth-watering paninis and flavoursome coffee. Owner Claudia Marta explains how she’s made the area her home, and talks about some favourite dishes and suppliers that make her menu shine Tell us how Casa Da Claudia got started I used to be a teaching assistant at Meadows School in Southborough, and my partner said there was this space in Tunbridge Wells for sale, so we came and saw it and I fell in love with it. This is my dream and has been for many, many years.

Do you use local suppliers? I’ve got Speldhurst sausages and I’m getting Speldhurst bacon. My bread comes from Beckenham because that’s where my husband works in a bakery, but mostly everything is local from the suppliers around here.

You opened in December last year – how has business been since then? It varies; Mondays tend to be very quiet, but then Wednesdays are very busy and I get a full house upstairs and downstairs. I also get lots of takeaway orders, or people will ring to order and come in and collect.

With so many coffee shops in the town, is there room for all of them? I think everybody’s doing fantastically, and there’s enough for everyone. There’s enough for everybody and there’s enough for me; I’m not taking anything from anyone and no one’s taking anything from me. I love feeding and talking to people, and believe there’s enough for everybody.

What appealed to you about the area? Castle Street reminds me of places like Portugal, Italy and Spain. I come from the south of Portugal in the countryside just towards Spain, where the streets are like this, so it’s perfect for me and reminds me of my town. I like it here and love this street. Have you got to know other traders? They’re really friendly. When I first got here, Skinners of Tunbridge Wells was the first to come and welcome me to the lane, and Cassidy’s are really lovely; they keep sending their customers here to eat, and I keep sending mine there to drink! They’re really lovely people around here. Any customer favourites on the menu? A big seller is my panini, called the Claudia Special, which is chicken and crispy bacon. I live in Beckenham and get here at about six in the morning, so by 6.15 I’m making my dishes. I leave at about 6pm and went for seven weeks without having a day off, but I don’t need one because I’m doing something I love.

Why do you think coffee culture is such big business around here? I think Tunbridge Wells has got taste in food and coffee. I’ve realised that and believe Tunbridge Wells people will come and find you if they know where you are, because they’ve got a passion for food and coffee especially. Where would you like to see things go in the future? I’ve fallen in love with this place, so it’s very hard for me to start thinking about expanding. I want to stay here and don’t want to expand. I like it here and just want to do well and for people to enjoy my food, because that’s what I like to do.

CASA DA CLAUDIA

QUEEN OF CAKES Owner Claudia Marta

5 Castle street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1XJ 01892 533 988 Twitter: @casadaclaudia5 Instagram: @casa_da_claudia www.facebook.com/casada.claudia

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

84 � ARTS & CULTURE

As an audience, listeners

MUSIC MAKERS Head engineer Ricky Beetlestone (right) and assistant Ben Shorten

Situated on the former site of unStudios, The Clubhouse at The Forum is Tunbridge Wells’ latest professional recording studio for local bands and artists. Head engineer Ricky Beetlestone tells Fred Latty about the importance of supporting emerging acts and finding the perfect sound for his clients TELL US HOW THE CLUBHOUSE GOT STARTED

I had my own recording studio in Chatham in Medway, which was in my parents’ back garden. I was doing that for eight years, and in that time I recorded so many bands. The Forum then offered me an upgrade with this new studio, so I moved all my stuff over here. It’s really nice to work out of The Forum because it’s such a nice little community, whereas before I was just on my own. THE PLACE USED TO BE CALLED UNSTUDIOS – WHAT CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE SINCE THE REBRAND?

unStudios didn’t really use a mixing desk as much, so I’ve brought in quite a lot of analogue gear, which means it’s not so digital. I use a

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

MASTER MIXER The Midar 1,000 mixing desk

‘No one really wants to buy a CD anymore; as an audio lover, I like a hardcopy, but these days it’s all completely digital’

Midas 1,000 desk, which was used for front of house at The Forum before they upgraded to a digital desk. We track everything out on the stage, so we can speak to the bands when they’re out there through headphones and they can hear everything we’re doing here. A service we’re trying to get going is recording live sets onstage. WOULD YOU SAY THE FORUM’S A CONDUCIVE SETTING FOR A GREAT SOUND?

Out onstage, drums especially sound amazing because they sound so big. We close-mic all the drums so that they’re not so ambient, and then we put two microphones out on the floor to give it that natural reverb. I didn’t have that before at

ARTS & CULTURE 

are used to a certain sound my old studio, because it was quite a small live room, but since I’ve been here, it’s been perfect. It’s quite unique to have a live room as a venue. WHAT KINDS OF ACTS DO YOU TEND TO WORK WITH?

I generally like to associate myself with subgenres of mainstream stuff, like punk, rock and emo. I’ve worked with bands like Moose Blood and a local band called Weak Nerves, who are grungy and Nirvana-esque and have the potential to do great stuff. I’ve worked with quite an extensive amount of bands, who come from all over the place, like Ipswich, Canterbury and Wales. I recorded Moose Blood about three or four years ago, and they’ve blown up quite a bit now; they’re doing really quite well and are fantastic and really nice guys. ARE YOU QUITE HANDS-ON IN SHAPING THE SOUND OF A RECORDING?

Most definitely. That’s the thing I try to do the most; I like to get involved and make it a recording experience. I don’t want to change their songs, I just want to tweak them a bit, even down to the use of different microphones.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECORD AN ALBUM OR EP?

you want to give it away for free, you can.

It really depends. If it’s a trashy punk band that just wants quick, live songs, we get five or six done in a day, but if they’re going for that nice, polished sound, I’d say a day and a half per song, then it takes around a day and a half to mix.

DO YOU THINK LOCAL BANDS ARE THRIVING AT THE MOMENT?

IS HAVING A SOLID RECORDING ESSENTIAL FOR NEW BANDS TO PROMOTE THEIR WORK?

If you’re going to start a band, there’s no point just doing a quick demo. If you’re serious about it, go and get a great recording, because without that, people are just going to turn their noses up at you. As an audience, listeners are used to a certain sound and a certain quality of recording, so that they can actually enjoy the song. If you don’t record it well and have something that portrays that, then people don’t pay as much attention. Everyone now wants to get their music out there, but at the same time, they hear so many decently produced records that they want it to sound as good as that.

Yeah, I do – in their own little niches, they are. The thing is, these little niche bands aren’t going to get anywhere without people going out to watch them. People need to, because they’re great; if you’re in two minds about whether it’s worth going out for, or if they’re going to be any good, just take a chance, because some of these up-and-coming bands are great. BBC Introducing puts out a lot of great up-and-coming bands, and

those two-piece niches like Slaves really hit at the right time, which is great for Tunbridge Wells and The Forum as well, because they’re local. There’s a lot of great up-and-coming music that just needs to be explored. The Clubhouse Recording Studio Tunbridge Wells Forum, The Common, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8YU 07539 430 027 www.theclubhousestudios.co.uk info@theclubhousestudios.co.uk

HAS THE DIGITALISATION OF MUSIC MADE HARDCOPIES REDUNDANT?

No one really wants to buy a CD anymore; as an audio lover, I like a hardcopy, but these days it’s all completely digital. You’re not going to get much turnover selling CDs if you’re an up-andcoming band rather than Rihanna or Beyoncé! I think vinyl is a big thing at the moment – people like vinyl records as a collectors’ item, but no one sees a CD like that. WITH SO MUCH MUSIC AVAILABLE TO STREAM OR DOWNLOAD FOR FREE NOW, IS IT HARDER TO MAKE A LIVING FROM MUSIC?

MIC CHECK Ricky prepares for a recording

I think everyone knows the answer is ‘yes’. If you’re a musician, sometimes you just have passion and don’t want money, but as a whole, it’s going to affect things. People are cracking down on illegal downloads, so if people do want to get their tracks out for free, it gives great exposure. It’s almost like a trade-off; everything digitally being more accessible through all these brilliant websites like Spotify, iTunes and Bandcamp is fantastic for exposure, but the trade-off is that, once it’s on the internet, people can get hold of it and it’s not so much of a commodity. Bandcamp has got it right because, if

SOUND HUB The Clubhouse at The Forum music venue

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

86 � WHAT’S ON A ROUND-UP OF THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Paul Dunton Live music It’s another bumper packed week of superb live music and my top recommendations are as follows: PICK OF THE WEEK… For jazz and blues lovers and everything in between, the excellent Paul Malsom & The Nocasters are at the Cross Keys pub this Wednesday evening. For anyone wanting to don their rock/pop dancing shoes this Friday evening, The Pulse are at Cassidy’s Bar and White Coast Rebels are at No.9 Smokehouse. Mesmerising alternative folk outfit Keston Cobblers Club are at The Forum this Saturday. Classical music lovers are in for a treat this Sunday afternoon with soloist Alexandra Wood performing a fantastic repertoire comprised from Elgar, Mozart and Brahms alongside the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra at the Assembly Hall. For acoustic fans, guitar virtuoso, Sean de Burca will be headlining The Grey Lady this Sunday evening with support from Martin Stenning, Theresa Draper and Michael Wood. Another great option for Sunday evening is Pete & Del of The Harveys who are performing an acoustic set at the Royal Oak.

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

Wood, Sean de Burca TUESDAY – Jack Leon Mackey, Rachael Stalker The Ackerleys, Lily Denning (full band) WEDNESDAY – Gronk, Lucy Jarrett, Alice Rose, Rob Picazo THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

Doors 7.30pm, entry price variable, event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk THURSDAY – Press to MECO, Allusondrugs, Max Raptor FRIDAY – Creeper, Grader SATURDAY – Keston Cobblers Club THE BEAU NASH

Mount Ephraim | Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday – James Kirby THE BEDFORD PUB

2 High Street | Open all day, free entry music from 8.30pm till late SATURDAY – Atlas

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE

NO.9 SMOKEHOUSE

The Pantiles | Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7, websites www. pdag.co.uk + www.thegreylady.co.uk WEDNESDAY – Charlotte Tingley, Leo Snook, Lorin Jane Forster, Josh Renton FRIDAY – (9.30pm till late) Studio 54 SATURDAY – (closed for private party) SUNDAY – Martin Stenning, Theresa Draper, Michael

9 Nevill Street | Open all day, free entry music from 8.30pm till late FRIDAY – White Coast Rebels THE CROSS KEYS

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

WEDNESDAY – Sonny’s Jazz: Paul & The Nocasters + Guests FRIDAY – Blues with Bottle Club: Rag Mama Rag MONDAY – TWUNTS: Ukulele Night Thing WEDNESDAY – Sonny’s Jazz: visit venue website (see above) THE ROYAL OAK

Prospect Road | Open all day, free entry, music from mid afternoon onwards. SATURDAY – Between Giants SUNDAY – Pete & Del (acoustic duo set) MONDAY – Open Mic/Jam Session

THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE

Crescent Rd | Show times & ticket prices vary, visit www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk for more information SUNDAY – (3pm) RTWSO with soloist Alexandra Wood. Music Programme: Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro Overture Brahms: Violin Concerto + Elgar: Symphony No.1 WEDNESDAY - The Hollies

SEVEN DAYS OF EVENTS AT A GLANCE

Dave Barnett of TW events Here are my picks for the week. This is just a small selection of events available in and around Tunbridge Wells. For more details visit the website or follow me on Twitter or Facebook. >> WEDNESDAY Annie, the popular musical, started at the Assembly Hall last night. It stars Lesley Joseph, from Birds of a Feather fame, as Miss Hannigan and looks to be a good show. It runs until Saturday night. That cheeky chappie, Tom Carradine, returns to the Scallywag Cafe for another cockney knees-up and to help you sing the songs you didn’t know you knew. Always fun, everyone should go at least once. The Uckfield Picture House has an ‘encore’ screening of the Pearl Fishers, by Georges Bizet, from New York’s Met Opera. First performed in 1863, it tells the eternal love triangle story as two pearl fishermen fall for the same woman. Fans of Cirque Du Soleil will want to head to Trinity tonight as Grazing the Sky tells the story of several performers at the modern circus from an insider’s point of view. Filmed in eleven countries and in three languages. From what I’ve seen it all looks pretty scary! >> THURSDAY The week’s big culture on screen production is the National Theatre’s Hangmen, showing at several locations including the Odeon, the Stag, the Hawkhurst Kino and the Uckfield Picture House. On the day the death penalty is abolished, retired hangman and local celebrity Harry Wade (played by David Morrissey) is holding court in his local pub... It’s had great reviews and has been described as both the best new play and the funniest show in London. So despite it's uninspiring premise it could be worth going. As is usually the case with these theatre screenings, it will be repeated over the next few weeks just as As You Like It, also from the National Theatre, is being repeated at Trinity and the EM Forster theatre in Tonbridge tonight. If you just want to get your hands dirty you’ve got two chances today. Kent High Weald volunteers will be working at Southborough Common and the Grosvenor Park team will be undertaking a spring clean. I know they would like your help. >> FRIDAY It’s only two months to the Grovesnor and Hilbert Park officially reopens following it’s major, lottery-funded, overhaul. They don’t pay for everything though, so the volunteers are out again cleaning up some graffiti on the railway bridge. Go and help if you can. And as it’s Clean for The Queen weekend, you'll be doing it for your country! The monthly TW Jazz Club is at the Masonic Hall in St John’s Road tonight where the Adrian Cox Quartet, which features four of the UK’s finest jazz musicians, will play a mix of hard jazz and swing. Comedian Tom Stade is performing his show You're Welcome! at Trinity tonight. Expect humour, mischief and improvisation from this rising star from Canada.

Wednesday 2nd March 2016

THE MASONIC CENTRE

St John’s Road | For show times & ticket prices visit www.twjazzclub.co.uk FRIDAY – TW Jazz Club: The Adrian Cox Quartet

A selection of events in Tunbridge Wells. For more details visit: www.tunbridgewellsevents. co.uk/thisweek

>> SATURDAY There’s an interesting looking Papercuts Workshop inspired by the current Wycinanki exhibition at the Museum this afternoon. It’s aimed at older children (11 to 18) and it’s free so just drop in. And there’s another chance to get involved with the Kent High Weald Partnership – today they are at Sherwood Lake where they will be building nest boxes as well as Cleaning for The Queen. Like old books? Then you get a chance to buy some at the regular Tunbridge Wells Book Fair at the King Charles the Martyr Church Hall in Warwick Park. In another culture screening, the Odeon and the Uckfield Picture House are showing the Met Opera’s Manon Lescaut, a rags to riches story from Puccini and one of his first major operatic successes. The Spa Valley Railway is holding one of it’s regular Murder Mystery, Fish and Chips Suppers this evening. Act out your inner Hercule Poirot as you steam up the line to Groombridge. These sell well so you may need to look for future dates to get a ticket. >> SUNDAY It’s Mothering Sunday today so there are loads of special events taking place across the region. These often include food, like the afternoon tea at Chiddingstone Castle or on the two railways, or a special lunch such as at Salomons. As I said on Valentine’s Day, if you’re reading this on Wednesday and it’s reminded you to sort something out, you can thank me later. The Assembly Hall has two events today. This afternoon it’s the monthly concert from the RTW Symphony Orchestra where today's soloist is rising star of the violin world Alexandra Wood. Music from Mozart, Brahms and Elgar. After a quick break the doors open again in the evening for Ed Byrne, the Irish comedian from Mock The Week, the hairy one! Merry Opera’s short tour of La Boheme, another oprea by Puccini, continues with a performance at St Mildred’s Church in Tenterden. >> MONDAY Unusually it’s busy for a Monday. It’s mostly about pubs as the Sussex Arms is hosting one of it’s occasional video games nights; tonight’s Inset Disc XI features Street Fighter 4. The Cross Keys will host the Ukuleles of TWUNTS and at the Foresters Arms duo Skinner and T’witch will be entertaining the Tonbridge Folk Club with their harmonies and driving rhythmic guitar. The Picture House in Uckfield has a screening of The Car Man from Sadler’s Wells. This award-winning modern dance thriller is based on Bizet’s opera of the same (well similar) name. It’s on again next Monday but as I’ve not seen it anywhere else it could be a rare chance to see this show from last year. >> TUESDAY Fancy a film to finish off the week? Trinity is showing Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro in Joy several times today.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS �

Kent Barker Country matters

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

The right Royal conundrum

HE invitation, when it arrived, posed something of a dilemma. Of course I’m delighted to see our new batch of Housing Association homes completed and ready for occupation. It’s been several years since we found the land for them. A village trust administered by the Parish Council owned a field that had been let out for grazing. In an ideal world it would have remained for agriculture, but affordable housing is urgently needed and we felt the proposal for three homes and a couple of flats was a reasonable one. Not all the nearby residents agreed and there was a stormy public meeting at which several vented their spleen. Anyway, here we are with the houses built and just some landscaping to do before the grand opening ceremony. I’m not quite sure why there needs to be a grand opening ceremony but the Housing Association wants one, and so sent out invitations to village worthies and to me as a parish councillor. As a local politician – albeit on the very bottom rung of the administrative ladder – I feel it’s good to attend these sorts of gatherings whenever possible, so I was about accept when I noticed who was to be the guest of honour. It was the Housing Association’s

patron, the Princess Royal, or as I remember her, Princess Anne. A quick check shows that the first Princess Royal in Britain was Maria, daughter of Charles I and his French wife Henrietta Maria, who wanted to import the Gallic custom of calling their eldest daughter ‘Madame Royale’. Though perhaps they felt that title suffered in translation and sounded, to English ears, a tad too close to the keeper of a bawdy house. However, I suppose the monarchical title might have provided some fig-leaf of respectability. Anyway, I fear we are diverting down dangerous by ways here. The point is, or was, whether I

‘We look round the world and lecture others on the need for free elections and decry one-party states or dictatorships’

should attend a function at which a member of the royal family was to be present. Let me make it clear, I have nothing against any of them personally. It’s the institution I have a problem with. Put me on the rack (and expressing such views in times gone by might well have resulted in me being put on a rack) I would probably admit pretty quickly that I was, at heart, a republican. Actually, come to think about it, I’d admit to almost anything in the face of even the most gentle torture.Personally I just can’t see the point of submitting to the pain. So beware, any friends or relatives, if I’m carted off to the torture chamber, head for the hills because I am most unlikely to keep your secrets. But back to the question of whether, in the 21st century, it’s in any way acceptable for a head of state to hold the post solely because they happen to have been born into the aristocracy? We in Britain pride ourselves on being a bastion of democracy. We characterise the Westminster model as the mother of Parliaments. We look round the world and lecture others on the need for free elections and decry one-party states or dictatorships. And yet… our upper

chamber in Parliament is wholly UN-elected, likewise our constitutional head of state. Now, if we ignore a few peccadillos of her children or grandchildren, I’ll own that the current Queen has done a pretty decent job. And it’s not a job I’d take on for all her money. But on one level it’s her wealth that is part of the problem. How can you persuade Google or Starbucks, or even the bloke next door, to pay their taxes if your head of state only does so on a voluntary basis, and sometimes not at all when it comes to inheritance tax? OK, I know all the arguments about the value of the Monarchy to our tourist income, but surely there’s a principle at stake here, isn’t there? So by now you should be asking: ‘Is he going to put his principles before the chance of hobnobbing with the Princess?’ Well as I said it’s a dilemma. I’ve met Princess Anne before, when I was a junior reporter in local radio in the North East at a Riding for the Disabled charity event. I’ve even met The Queen. Well, when I say met, she passed by me in a reception line at a gala theatrical first night to which, as a teenager, I’d gone with my father. I had no idea she’d be there and recall being embarrassed I’d failed to polish my shoes. I doubt she noticed. Eventually I decided to accept the invite on your behalf. I’ll be your eyes and ears and tell you all about it in a future column. You may call it a copout. I justify it as journalism!

Wednesday 2nd March 2016