Times of Tunbridge Wells 15th March 2023

Junior doctors strike in dispute over poor pay and conditions

By Lilly Croucher

JUNIOR doctors at Tunbridge Wells hospital will be walking out again today, March 15, in their third day of strikes over pay and working conditions.

The action is part of a 72-hour national strike by the British Medical Association (BMA) who are demanding a 35 per cent pay rise, which they hope will achieve full pay restoration to 2008/09 levels. Junior doctors have been on the picket lines outside Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone Hospitals since Monday, March 13, to campaign for better working conditions and salaries as they feel ‘underpaid and undervalued’.

Rao, a final-year junior doctor at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW), told the Times: “I am striking to show solidarity with my

Dr

colleagues who are not paid enough, supported by the government, or respected by the patients.

“I love working in emergency medicine

and MTW is the best A&E, but we are starting to feel the pressure from being short-staffed, inadequate equipment or it being in the wrong place, and working extra shifts and overtime.

“The pay is not fair for the job we do but it’s not just about the money; we want better support, time off and equipment.

“Doing medical on call, I was working 13-hour shifts, four nights in a row. I felt exhausted because we were constantly short-staffed, sometimes we would only have two doctors. We would often admit defeat before we went in that night.”

Ishani

‘The pay is not fair for the job we do but it’s not just about the money; we want better support, time off and equipment’

EDITOR

MICHELLE WOOD michelle.wood@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 240626

DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 576037

CHIEF REPORTER VICTORIA ROBERTS | 01892 779615

NEWS REPORTER

LILY CROUCHER | 01892 240626 newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uk

DESIGN/PRODUCTION

JASON STUBBS jason.stubbs@onemediauk.co.uk

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SKATE season could be cut short

By Lilly Croucher

THE face of SKATE Tunbridge Wells could change this year − if recommendations by the Council are made. The SKATE season could be cut down and more attractions added to the event – including a Ferris wheel, a carousel and other children’s rides.

On March 8, the Cabinet Advisory Board for Communities and Economic Development met to decide the future of the rink. A report by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) recommended that the festive event be ‘pared down’ by two weeks and to run only from

December 1 to January 1, instead of starting in November. In addition, it was also recommended that extra attractions be added. A final decision will be made by Cabinet on March 23. The meeting with the Board comes as the five-year deal with the ice rink, lighting, security, and concessions are ‘all up for renewal’. There are also questions around funds for the muchneeded replacement of the ‘shabby’ marquees and the cost of skates, at around £32,000.

Last year’s 2022/23 event made a loss due to rising costs for fuel and electricity, and the extra labour costs associated with antisocial behaviour in the park.

Dawn Gabriel, Operations Manager at the Assembly Hall Theatre, told the Advisory Board: “This is an event in the centre of town [that] attracts a lot of young adults, and last year we had more anti-social behaviour

than we had previously.

“We had to employ SIA security because the managers were spending an awful lot of time dealing with anti-social behaviour, not just on the rink but in and around the park.”

The Board also considered increasing the ticket prices to address the impact the cost-of-living crisis has had on fuel and electricity costs, as well as on tenders and staff contracts. However, as Ms Gabriel told councillors: “We will raise

ticket prices but there is a ceiling to how much you can raise them and still attract people.”

Other options considered by the Board included contracting out the ice rink (which could cost the council £475,000), providing the same event as last year, or not running the event at all.

The much-loved Christmas event has attracted over 400,000 visitors since it opened 12 years ago, with the 43,000 visitors to the rink last year benefiting the town and the local economy.

Doctors walk out for three days

Another junior doctor from MTW, who chose to remain anonymous, told the Times: “It’s more than just pay and working conditions, it’s a complicated issue. It’s about how we are treated as individuals, the rotational aspect of the job and the day-to-day challenges.

“You choose to do this job from when you are 16 and it is what you expect but what you’re not prepared for is how indispensable you feel.”

On the picket line at Tunbridge Wells hospital, members of the public came out in support of junior doctors.

Shocking

Steve Lane who has been having treatment at the hospital told the Times: When I came in one morning last week, I was greeted at the door by a triage nurse and a doctor and for various reasons I was there until late at night where the same people were behind reception and the same doctors, same nurses were there over 12 hours later, it was shocking.”

His partner, Lynne Lane also told the Times: “We want these people to get a decent wage, they are working 72 hours a week not getting paid properly and not working in good conditions and they are moving around the country for their training.

“I am concerned that the doctors who we are training are giving up and going abroad for better conditions and salaries.”

The BMA has said the lack of investment in wages has made the recruitment and retainment of doctors harder, putting pressures on the NHS to deliver care to the same professional standards.

According to a survey by the BMA, one in four doctors plan to leave the NHS once they have found a new job with a third planning to work as a doctor in another country with the most popular

destination being Australia. The strikes are expected to conclude tomorrow (March 16) at 7am, when junior doctors will resume attending shifts, but Kent and Medway NHS Trust have warned patients ‘use services wisely’ and to attend appointments unless told otherwise.

The Trust said: “Unfortunately, people can expect a significant impact to health services in Kent and Medway during industrial action planned by junior doctors.

will directly contact you to make alternative arrangements.”

NHS Kent and Medway’s Chief Medical Officer Kate Langford said: “We are working closely with our partners to make sure patients can access the care they need, in a safe environment, during industrial action by junior doctors.

Planning

“We anticipate and are planning for the action to have significant impact on services provided across all areas of the NHS, including our hospitals, accident and emergency departments, primary care (GP practices) and mental health services.

“All areas of the NHS are expected to be affected from 7am on Monday, 13 to 7am on Thursday, 16 March. Please use services wisely, we are working with partners to make sure patients receive care in a safe environment.

“People should use 111 online as the first port of call for health needs and only use 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency. Mental health crisis services can be accessed through normal routes.

“Our emergency departments continue to face high demand and we expect resources to be stretched further during this industrial action. Please only go to our emergency departments if you are facing life threatening injury or illness.

“Care is available across Kent and Medway through other NHS services, including urgent treatment centres and pharmacies. Please use these for less urgent health needs.

“Please go any planned appointment as normal unless you hear otherwise. If industrial action means your appointment has to be cancelled, your hospital, GP or other provider

“Regardless of any strike action taking place, it is important patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases – when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.’’

UPCOMING STRIKES

Junior doctors strike by the BMA being held today until March 16 at 7am which is expected to affect both Tunbridge wells and Maidstone NHS trust.

Teachers from the NEU national strike action held March 15 and 16 which is expected to affect most schools in Tunbridge Wells.

Network Rail workers from the RMT Union will be striking on March 16 and 18 and is expected to impact passengers using Southeastern railway. A limited service is expected to run but some routes will be closed with normal timetables expected to resume on March 17 at 7am.

‘I am concerned that the doctors who we are training are giving up and going abroad for better conditions and salaries.’

‘We had to employ SIA security because the managers were spending an awful lot of time dealing with anti-social behaviour’

ON THIN ICE :The festive rink could face a pared down season while gaining more attractions

NEWS IN BRIEF

BBC journalists to walk out over cuts

JOURNALISTS at BBC South East studios in Tunbridge Wells will be walking out today (March 15) in a 24-hour strike over cuts to local radio.

Members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) will be picketing outside the Mount Pleasant Studios from 11am following 83 per cent of balloted members voting in favour of action.

The broadcaster plans to cut services down to only 40 hours of guaranteed weekly programming, which would be replaced by county-wide programmes across multiple stations and platforms.

The union says it is ‘engaged’ in talks with the BBC, who they urge to ‘rethink’ their plans which will have a ‘damaging impact’ on their 5.7 million weekly listeners.

Residents on alert after man accosts local schoolgirls

KENT Police are calling for witnesses to a man acting suspiciously near local schools during the afternoon school run.

In one incident, a man reportedly talked to a number of unaccompanied schoolgirls on Linden Park Road at 3:45pm on March 1.

Two days later, at 3:15pm, a parent reported a similar incident on Saunders Road.

The suspect is described as white, over six foot tall, with dark-blonde hair cut in a ‘curtains’ style. He was wearing a black, hooded jumper with the hood up, dark-coloured jeans, and white trainers.

“The man spoke with a British accent and is believed to be between the ages of 30 and 40,” added Kent Police.

Anyone with information can contact the West Kent appeal line on 01622 604100, quoting crime reference 46/40276/23. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/ pre-form

Tables at the ready for Subbuteo tournament

Sporting officials were in Tunbridge Wells on Monday (March 13) to check arrangements for the 2024 Subbuteo World Cup.

The tournament is due to be held in the town in September next year, organised by the Federation of International Sports Table Football (FISTF).

The game was invented in 1946 by Tunbridge Wells resident Peter Adolph, and early production of Subbuteo also took place in the area.

It was originally sold by mail order from his mother’s house in Langton Green but went on to become popular in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) gave full support to the ESA bid to FISTF to host the 2024 event.

The Subuteo World Cup was last held in the UK in 2012, in Manchester.

Jeff Beck tribute to benefit charity

A CONCERT by Eric Clapton and others, in tribute to the late rock guitarist Jeff Beck, will benefit a local wildlife charity.

Mr Beck, who died earlier this year, lived in Wadhurst and had been a patron of the Folly Wildlife Rescue.

Two concerts will be held, on May 22-23, at the Royal Albert Hall, with surplus income from the concerts going to the rescue organisation, said Folly Wildlife Rescue.

Photo ID requirement could ‘exclude voters’

By Victoria Roberts

LOCAL elections on May 4 will be the first UK polls in which voters will need to show photo identification, but this requirement could end up excluding some people from the voting process – particularly the old and the young.

In a recent meeting held by Soroptimist International Tunbridge Wells & District, attendees highlighted several groups that could end up disenfranchised by the requirement to carry specific types of photographic identification.

Dr Amelia Dowler told the Times: “Specific concerns expressed for older voters include the lack of digital skills to apply for the Voter Authority Certificate provided by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC).

Options

“For younger voters, there are fewer options for suitable photo ID, and many will not have a driving licence or a passport,” she said.

In addition, some voters may not realise in time that their passports have expired.

“There is at present a ten-week processing time for anyone renewing a passport [which would leave them without a document during the wait],” Dowler warned.

Only certain types of ID will be accepted at a polling station:

• Passport (UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, British Overseas Territory, EEA state or Commonwealth country)

• Driving licence issued by any of the same authorities (except the Commonwealth). A provisional license is acceptable.

• National identity card issued by an EEA state

• Biometric immigration document

• A Blue Badge

• Concessionary travel pass funded by HM Government or local authority, such as a Kent

County Council Bus Pass or Disabled Person’s Bus Pass

• Identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (a PASS card)

• Ministry of Defence Form 90 (Defence Identity Card)

• Anonymous Elector’s Document

If you don't have any of the accepted documents, you can apply for a free voter ID, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. To apply, you will need a recent digital photo of yourself and your National Insurance number (or if you do not have this, another proof of

identity, such as a birth certificate, bank statement or utility bill).

If you cannot apply for the Voter Authority Certificate online, you can make an appointment for a Council officer to help you make the application in person. The process will take place at The Amelia Scott, but an appointment is required. Contact 01892 554 024 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) or elections@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

If you cannot get to a polling station, you can apply for a proxy vote. The proxy voter will have to show their photo ID to vote on your behalf, but will not have to show your ID.

IMPORTANT DEADLINES

Register to vote by 11.59pm on Monday April 17 at: gov.uk/register-to-vote

Apply for a postal vote by 5pm on Tuesday April 18 at: electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/ voter/apply-vote-post

Apply for a Voter Authority Certificate by 5pm on Tuesday April 25 at: gov.uk/apply-forphoto-id-voter-authority-certificate

Apply for a proxy vote by 5pm on Tuesday April 25 at: electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/ voter/apply-vote-proxy

Kent Police pay out family of Matthew Mackell, 17, who died after 999 call

ALONG with a major, undisclosed settlement, an apology was issued to the family of the Tunbridge Wells teen who committed suicide after calling 999 for help.

Matthew Mackell, 17, had phoned the emergency number on May 6 2020. Despite the teen’s distress, no units or officers were dispatched to the scene. The teen’s body was found in Dunorlan Park the following morning.

Review

In the wake of Matthew’s death, Kent Police conducted an internal review that identified numerous things that the police ought to have done differently that night. These included faults in the training of Kent’s Police’s Control Room staff and in the use of a new, enhanced mapping software available to them.

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The software, which should have pinpointed the location of Matthew’s last call with a high degree of accuracy, had not been correctly set. Without that accurate data, a decision was then made to downgrade the priority of Matthew’s call and no patrol was sent out to search for him.

Kent Police said in a statement: “Every day Kent Police deals with a high volume of calls from and about members of the public whose lives are at risk, and successfully prioritises the deployment of limited police resources to manage those risks.

“It is a matter of deep regret to Kent Police that we fell short of the high standards to which we aspire in Matthew’s case. We offer Matthew’s family our sincere apologies."

It also acknowledged the way the teen's call to police was handled was “in violation of Matthew’s Article 2 ECHR rights and that following detailed and constructive discussions with Matthew’s father, Kent Police had embedded Matthew’s story into its training for staff.

“We hope that the actions of this settlement will help to honour Matthew’s memory.

“We will continue to work with Matthew’s family, who have shown an incredible dedication to suicide awareness, to improve Kent Police policies, procedures and training to ensure that something like this never happens again.”

Local Conservatives reject ‘unacceptable’ applicant

CONTROVERSIAL

By Victoria Roberts

TUNBRIDGE Wells Conservative Association

(TWCA) has rejected a membership application by a former United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) official following the emergence of his controversial social media comments and posts.

As the Times reported on March 8, TWCA issued a press release last week with the news that Alun Elder-Brown had resigned all his UKIP positions and membership and had applied to join the Conservatives.

Mr Elder-Brown had explained his desire to join the Conservatives as a desire to ‘unite the

Right’ rather than ‘split the vote, if not the country’.

He was previously UKIP South East Regional Chairman, Kent Secretary, National Executive Committee member, and listed at Companies House as a director for the UK Independence Party.

However, concerns have been raised about Mr Elder-Brown’s publicly-available social media activity, which includes comments about Muslims and pictures of himself with Tommy Robinson, founder of the English Defence League (EDL), whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.

The EDL is widely regarded as a far-right organisation.

The local Conservative Association has now

rejected Mr Elder Brown’s membership, TWCA Chairman Andrew Hobart told the Times

Mr Hobart said: “We took the view that these were clearly unacceptable. There is a centralised application procedure, but by the time that step had happened, we did have concerns.

“The officers (of the local Conservative Association) took a vote to accept or reject his application, and the officers were unanimous in rejecting it.

“Mr Elder-Brown will be written to by Conservative Central Office and told his application is rejected.”

Acknowledging that the rejection of an applicant was ‘not exactly common’, Mr Hobart said: “It is not unheard of. I am aware of previous applications to join the Tunbridge Wells Conservative Association which have been rejected.”

Although the Chairman cited Mr Elder-Brown’s ‘past pronouncements and historic publications on social media’ as the basis for their decision, he would not specify which posts had aroused most concern.

“I don’t want to draw attention to the detail.”

However, Mr Hobart stressed: “He did not bring

any of this to our attention. Perhaps if he had said: ‘I said this in the past and I regret it’ … but there was nothing like that.

“This is more than ‘distancing’ ourselves,” he said. “We have rejected his application to join.

“I perhaps naïvely took [the application] in good faith. The person who introduced him has apologised for doing so. The processes which are in place worked.”

Initially, Mr Elder-Brown was publicly defiant, posting on Facebook on Monday: “The Tory Party have declined my membership, apparently because of my ‘association with Tommy Robinson’ lol (more to follow).”

He added: “Apparently, it was because of a tweet and subsequent press article where I said ‘Pull down the statue of the convicted terrorist Nelson Mandela on Parliament Square and replace it with a homegrown national hero, namely Tommy Robinson, who has never even been charged with hate speech, let alone terrorism’ lol”.

However, speaking to the Times yesterday (March 14), Mr Elder-Brown said he had not yet received any message from the party headquarters, but was aware his application had been rejected.

And he called the Times’s article following his 2018 tweet about the statue of Mandela ‘clickbait’.

“I am very, very disappointed because I wanted to get back into politics,” he told the Times. “I’m dumbfounded.”

He said: “I did have a friendship with Tommy Robinson, but back in about 2018. I’ve not spoken to him in – what, five years?”

Asked whether resurrecting an old picture of himself with Tommy Robinson – a picture he reposted on Twitter on February 23 – might be something the local Conservatives want to avoid being associated with, he said: “That’s fair enough. That is up to them.”

The officers (of the local Conservative Association) took a vote to accept or reject his application, and the officers were unanimous in rejecting

it

Some of Mr Elder-Brown’s social media posts

Fly-tipping incidents drop, but prosecutions still down

By Lilly Croucher

INCIDENTS of fly-tipping in Tunbridge Wells have dropped over the past year, although prosecution is still proving difficult.

New figures have revealed that despite the lower numbers, only four fines were issued to offenders in Tunbridge Wells in 2022.

According to the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), 857 incidents were reported in Tunbridge Wells in 2021/22, compared to 926 in 2020/21. Of this total, 222 were on highways, 469 were on footpaths or bridlepaths and 94 were on Council land.

Dumped

Across the whole of the South East, a total of 102,916 fly-tipping incidents were recorded in 2021/22, making it the third-worst region in the country, behind the North West and London. However, this was down from 121,283 in the previous year.

The majority of items that are dumped comprise household waste, which made up 350 incidences in Tunbridge Wells last year, along with 78 reports of white goods, such as washing machines and fridges. Fly-tipping is a criminal offence and is punishable with fines of up to £50,000 and/or 12 months in prison.

Over the past year, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) has launched 435 investigative actions and has issued six warning letters. However, only four fines for fly-tipping were issued, totalling £3,200. Most of the amounts were between £201 and £500.

Fly-tipping can be costly to local authorities who pay an average of £1,000 to clear the rubbish, with larger incidents costing up to £10,000. In the South East, clearance costs amounted to £664,624.

An additional level of nuisance around the issue

of fly-topping revolves around who can remove the items, depending on where the waste is dumped.

If the waste is left on public land owned by the Council, then the local authority is required to clear it, but if fly-tipping occurs on private land, then it is the landowner’s responsibility. Councils that fail to clear up fly-tipping incidents could face prosecution, so when property boundaries are blurred, it becomes a legally contentious issue, too.

Councillor Luke Everitt, Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainability and Carbon Reduction at TWBC said: “Though I positively greet the news of a drop in the figure of reported fly-tips, the fight continues. It is disgusting that offenders continue to use our streets as their own personal tip, often for their own financial gain and at a cost to everyone else.

“Tunbridge Wells Borough Council uses a Hit Squad Team to remove reported fly-tips. Fly-tips are investigated for evidence of where they have

ENVIRONMENTAL VANDALISM

Very few fly-tippers in Tunbridge Wells are being prosecuted for their actions

come from, and where possible they will be followed up and legal action taken. “But this comes at a cost to residents. We pay our contractor an annual sum for providing us with a Hit Squad Team. We will continue to work with Kent Police and all other agencies to try to keep our streets clean and stop the public and private landowners from footing the bill for selfish fly-tippers, but it is often frustratingly difficult to prosecute, and uses already stretched resources.”

Every

Aldi renews call for second town store

By Victoria Roberts

TUNBRIDGE Wells is being prioritised for a new Aldi store.

The company has included Tunbridge Wells on its list of 30 ‘priority’ places in which it wishes to open, despite already having an out-of-town location on the North Farm Industrial Estate.

Demand

Giles Hurley, CEO of Aldi UK, said: “Demand for Aldi has never been higher, but there are still some towns and areas that either don’t have access to an Aldi or have capacity for additional stores.”

Aldi opened its first supermarket in Tunbridge Wells at the Great Lodge Retail Park in November

2019, and had planned to open a second store in Eridge Road.

However, the supermarket chain was forced to sell that plot in late 2021 when fellow German discounter Lidl opened a shop off Linden Park Road – about 100 yards away.

Following that setback, Aldi had said it would pay a ‘finder’s fee’ to anyone – staff or member of the public – who could find it a location to buy or lease.

According to the discount supermarket’s specifications, it will pay 1.5 per cent of the purchase price (if freehold) or a 10 per cent of the annual rent (if leasehold) finder’s fee if someone introduces the company to a ‘previously unknown’ site.

More details at: www.aldi.co.uk/about-aldi/ property/required-towns/south-east

Further Safe Space rolled out for Tunbridge Wells

Sarah Carter

“Although all stores support the campaign, certain Metro Bank stores would not have been able to offer a truly safe and confidential space for victims.”

Other Safe Spaces in and around Tunbridge Wells include Boots in Calverley Road, Crowborough High Street and Crowborough Beacon; HSBC in Mount Pleasant Road, and Morrisons in Crowborough.

For a full list of Safe Spaces, visit: uksaysnomore.org/safespaces

Shortlist announced for 2023 event

By Lilly Croucher

THE Times Business Awards 2023 has prompted a deluge of fantastic entrants from across Tunbridge Wells. In fact, in response to the quality of the entries and the range of businesses that applied, five of the categories have been expanded to include four finalists who will be in the running for the awards.

This year there are two new categories up for grabs: Charity of the Year and Green Business of the Year, and both have been exceptionally well received by companies and local charities.

Categories

Some businesses have been shortlisted in two categories: Funeral directors Welham Jones are finalists in the Best Business with 1-25 Employees and Outstanding Business.

Communications firm Sharp Minds is a finalist in the Outstanding Business category and the Creative Business category, while Asian fusion restaurant Kumquat is shortlisted for Family Business and Start-Up Business of The Year.

There are also some familiar faces, with previous winners TN card and Thomas Mansfield nominated again.

Previously scooping the award for Start-Up of the Year 2022, loyalty award scheme TN card is hoping to win big again in the Creative Business category, while local solicitors Thomas Mansfield have their eyes set on Outstanding Business of the Year after winning Best Business with 26+ Employees in 2022.

Congratulations to all of the finalists.

Best Business with 1-25 Employees 2023

Brittens Music

The Green Duck Emporium HR Revolution

Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials

Best Business with 26+ Employees 2023

CooperBurnett LLP

Cornerstone FS PLC

Loch Associates Group

Best in Food and Drink 2023

The Blue Anchor (Crowborough)

The George & Dragon (Speldhurst)

Pig & Porter

TN1 Bar & Kitchen

Charity of the Year 2023

Age UK Tunbridge Wells

Nourish Community Foodbank

Taylor Made Dreams

Green Business of the Year

Denton’s Art of Hair

Emily Brown Photography

Goupie

Creative Business of the Year 2023

Colley Raine & Associates

Sharp Minds Communications Ltd.

The TN card

Start-Up Business of the Year 2023

Claire Douglas Styling Kumquat

TN Lettings

Family

Fashion Carpets

Grovewood Wealth Management

KMJ Property

Kumquat

Entrepreneur of the Year 2023

Denise Airey

Gillian Palmer

Maryna Cole

Matt Elesmore

Outstanding Business of the Year 2023

NFU Mutual

Sharp Minds Communications Ltd.

Thomas Mansfield

Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials

Business of the Year 2023

Drinks reception sponsored by Brewin Dolphin

GREAT BRITISH HOST Michael Portillo presented the gala ceremony in 2018

An exceptional group of finalists is in the running to take this year’s honours

Researcher traces the family of shot-down New Zealand pilot

Post-pandemic fund boost for basketball

By Sarah Carter

BASKETBALL at the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre has received a boost, thanks to the post-pandemic Kent Reconnect funding scheme, which supports young people in resuming physical activity.

By Victoria Roberts

PLANS to erect a Battle of Britain memorial plaque in the heart of the Kent countryside received a boost recently when a researcher made contact with the family of one of the pilots shot down over Hadlow Estate.

Kate Teacher started her research into pilots shot down over the Kent countryside when she learnt of a German Messerschmitt 109 that had crashed at Bank Farm, Tudeley, in 1940.

Now she has made contact with the family of a New Zealand pilot who was downed on Hadlow Place Farm somewhere between the tail and the fuselage of his aircraft, which were found ten miles apart.

Memoir

Bob Spurdle was based at Biggin Hill and shot down on 22 October, 1940. Kate traced him through an article written by his grandson, James Russell, and then discovered more detail in Bob’s own memoir, ‘The Blue Arena’.

Spurdle’s Spitfire had disintegrated in mid-air during a dogfight with a Messerschmitt 109.

He was picked up by a farm labourer who had initially thought he might be an enemy pilot. Through his grandson, Kate made contact with Bob’s surviving children, John and Anne. She then spoke directly to Anne who, along with James, hope to make the 18,000-mile trip to Hadlow sometime in the future.

“It was fascinating to meet both James and Anne, and a privilege to be able to share with them the information I had gathered on the circumstances of Bob’s crash here at Hadlow,” said Kate.

“It would be fantastic if James was able to visit Kent. It would also give him the opportunity to see the wonderful Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne, on the Kent coast, and the Shoreham Aircraft Museum.”

Bob Spurdle survived the war and died in 1994. His is the first family with whom Kate has made contact, but she plans to follow up on at least one other RAF pilot, and the pilot of the German Messerschmitt came down on the estate during the Battle of Britain.

Hadlow Place Estate plans to erect a memorial plaque in the estate office on Battle of Britain Day in mid-September.

Tunbridge Wells man to run marathon for sepsis fund

A THIRD-year business student from Tunbridge Wells is taking on his first marathon this weekend to support treatment of a condition that has hit close to home.

Hugh Harman had always known about sepsis, which occurs when the body’s response to an infection rapidly spirals out of control, injuring its own tissues and organs.

His own grandfather had received swift treatment at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in 2016 for symptoms of sepsis following a urinary infection, and made a good recovery.

Devastating

However, when two close friends lost family members to sepsis recently, it cemented in his mind that sepsis was an issue for which he wanted to raise funds.

“The time it took for the lives of their loved ones to be taken away was truly devastating. It left little time for them to prepare and digest what was going on.

“The pain that it caused them and their families should not have to happen to anyone, especially

through something as awful as sepsis,” he stressed.

Now Harman will be running his very first marathon in Barcelona this Saturday (March 19), to raise funds for Sepsis Research FEAT – a charity that funds pioneering research. This includes the GenOMICC study, which is investigating the role genes play in determining patients’ outcomes from sepsis.

The five key symptoms of sepsis are confusion, passing less urine than normal, very high or low temperature, uncontrolled shivering and cold or blotchy arms and legs.

To support Hugh’s fundraiser, visit: justgiving. com/fundraising/Hugh-Harman-Barca-Marathon

Although Reconnect had been due to finish in August 2022, an underspend resulted in funding still being available. This meant that centre operator Fusion Lifestyle was able to install two brand-new portable hoops and offer reduced court hire fees to the B Ballin basketball club that operates from the centre.

Founded in 2019, the B Ballin basketball club has since grown from two players – the children of the founders – to 110 youth players, ranging from under-8s to under-16s.

Expecting that the funding will allow the club to expand, Coach and Co-Founder, Stephen said: “This funding is going to make a huge difference

to the club. We are a community basketball club and we are excited to be able to make our sport accessible to even more children in the area.”

Delighted

Gemma Carrick, Sports and Community Development Manager for Fusion Lifestyle in Tunbridge Wells said: “We are delighted to be able to help support the growth of grassroots basketball.

“The funding we have accessed is going to make a real difference to the club and the number of children who will have the opportunity to play the community.”

B Ballin sessions are held on Wednesday and Friday evenings and Saturday mornings at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre.

For more information, contact the club on 01892 540 744 or at: Bballinltd@gmail.com

Charity insurer offers prize pot

A CALL has gone out to Kent charities to apply for a UK-wide funding pot worth £25,000, to boost projects that benefit communities.

Initiated by Ansvar, a specialist charity and faith insurer, registered charities have until Monday April 17 to fill in an application form and explain in 500 words or fewer why their project deserves funding.

Projects

The judges will be looking for projects that are about to start, or are already running, which positively impact the local community.

Winners are set to be announced on Wednesday May 31, with one large grant of £15,000 and two smaller grants of £5,000 each.

Ansvar Managing Director Sarah Cox said: “These are tough times for many charities, so we’re delighted to announce our search for three registered charities to benefit from a £25,000 prize pot.

“We know how much that money will mean to projects being run across the country, and the judges are particularly keen to receive entries that provide a detailed outline of how the money would be spent.”

Ansvar is a not-for-profit company that specialises in charity and faith insurance. It previously focused on charities that educate children and young adults about the effects of drugs and alcohol.

Find the application form at: ansvar.fra1. qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9Ty8ZlDNAmkIRAa

PORTRAIT OF A PILOT Bob Spurdle (centre) pictured in the 1980s with his family

HOOP DREAMS The B Ballin club hopes to use the funds to expand

HUGH HARMAN

Reopened Penshurst store forges community links

By Victoria Roberts

A THREE-year revamp of a mechanic’s garage and filling station has left Penshurst with a community hub and shop that doubles as an outlet for local goods.

Originally the village smithy on the High Street, Forge Stores became a garage and filling station, with a Post Office and convenience store added later. However, when the mechanic decided to retire, the lease returned to Penshurst Place Estate, which undertook the redevelopment.

Artisan

At the opening event, Penshurst honey and honey soap were already on sale, with fruit, vegetables, drinks, meats, freshly-baked bread and other artisan products are being sourced from Kent and Sussex and wherever possible.

The Penshurst blacksmith has returned to the site of the old forge, although he will only be demonstrating his heritage tools rather than using them.

Speaking at last week’s opening, Tonbridge

MP Tom Tugendhat said: “Forge Stores is at the heart of the Penshurst community. It was there for us all during Covid and is essential to many of us for the Post Office, food, petrol and simple convenience of our village.

“I am delighted it’s back and open with the support of Penshurst Place Estate. I will be shopping here again, and look forward to seeing it serve our community for years to come.”

The heir to Penshurst Place, Dr The Hon Philip Sidney, said: “In tough times it is more vital than ever to make sure that rural communities can get hold of what they need locally – be it local produce, petrol or postage – and I know that the stores will be an asset to villagers and visitors alike.”

BACK TO THE FUTURE

The Forge Stores team at the official reopening

All photographs: Nick Webster

TIME TO SET UP A LIMITED COMPANY?

By Nusrat Qureishi, Senior Associate at CooperBurnett LLP

A friend of mine has worked as a mobile hairdresser for a number of years, which provided her with flexibility when her children were young. Now they are older – and with a loyal client base - she is looking to fulfil a long-held dream of owning her own salon and employing staff. Up until now, she has been a sole trader, so asked for some guidance on running her business as a limited company.

The biggest difference is that a sole trader is owned and controlled by one person who has unlimited personal liability for the business, whereas a limited company will have its ownership split into shares. The shareholders of a limited company have limited liability for the business, meaning there is less personal monetary risk involved.

A limited company can offer increased liability protection and potential tax and cash flow benefits, especially if the aim is long term growth. In addition, the finances of the company will be separate from your own.

• As director of a limited company, you can choose how and when to pay yourself. With dividends having a lower tax threshold than salaried pay, this can mean you are much more tax-efficient than when just paying yourself a salary.

• All shareholders have a limited liability should your business incur losses or debt; it’s not your personal responsibility.

• Should you ever wish to leave your business, there are likely to be more opportunities for a clean break from a limited company.

Running a business with staff and premises will take more time and energy, while there will be an immediate capital expenditure needed for the business premises, equipment, insurance and staff costs. You will also be required to take out public and liability insurance.

Setting up as a company will afford you more protection and is fairly inexpensive (although more costly than being a sole trader). However, there may be more complex and time-consuming administrative and tax requirements. You can always start as a sole trader and establish a company once income grows but you will need to factor in the time, cost and energy to change bank accounts, business premises, websites etc at that point.

Please do not hesitate to contact Nusrat Qurieshi on email: NXQ@COOPERBURNETT.COM or tel: 01892 515022

WWW.COOPERBURNETT.COM

This blog is not intended as legal advice that can be relied upon and CooperBurnett LLP does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of its contents.

‘Work’ to be cornerstone of Jeremy Hunt’s Budget

INFLATION, pay and public finances are the pressing issues as Jeremy Hunt unveils his Budget today (March 15), but the Chancellor is expected to focus on measures to get various cohorts back to work as part of a wider push to boost growth.

The Budget comes in the wake of the autumn statement last November, which saw the Chancellor hike taxes as he and Rishi Sunak sought to restore UK financial credibility after Liz Truss’s short-lived premiership.

Payments

Efforts to encourage the over-50s, the long-term sick and disabled, and benefits claimants back into the workplace are likely to form a key plank of Mr Hunt’s plans.

Key details will include the axing of the system used to assess eligibility for sickness benefits, paying parents on Universal Credit childcare support upfront and increasing the amount they can claim by several hundred pounds.

The axing of the eligibility system will mark the biggest reform to the welfare system in a decade and will mean claimants can continue to receive the payments after they return to employment.

Mr Hunt is expected to cancel the planned £500 hike in average energy bills, which was due to come into force next month, in a move that would see bills for the average household staying at around £2,500, instead of £3,000 as was previously announced.

The Treasury has come under increasing pressure in recent weeks to cancel the rise, which was set to come into force from April 1.

On fuel duty, some Tory backbenchers have urged the Chancellor to act to support motorists facing a 12p-per-litre hike in fuel duty in March.

A 23% increase in the duty is due this month, but other hancellors have repeatedly frozen the levy. Mr Hunt has not yet said what he will do.

Action is also expected on prepayment meters, with the Chancellor set to end the so-called “prepayment premium” from July, something that the Treasury expects will save more than four million

households £45 a year on energy bills.

It has been reported that the Chancellor is considering raising the £40,000 cap on tax-free annual pensions contributions.

It could come among a a rise in the lifetime allowance (LTA) on tax-free pensions savings.

There have been reports, too, that the UK state pension age could rise to 68 sooner than h expected.

The Treasury has been under pressure for months to boost the defence budget, as the war in Ukraine continues.

Initiatives

The Prime Minister has promised an extra £5 billion for the military over two years, with an extra £1.98 billion this year and £2.97 billion next year f. According to Mr Sunak, the extra funding will take spending from 2% of GDP in 2020 to 2.25% in 2025.

Any indications from the Chancellor about the future trajectory of defence spending beyond this will likely be eagerly received by MPs.

After months of strikes across transport, the NHS and other sectors there has been some hope in recent weeks that rows over pay can be brought to an end.

Unions representing ambulance workers, physiotherapists, nurses and midwives remain locked in talks with the Department of Health but Mr Hunt could potentially use his Budget speech to offer details of some sort of pay settlement to end the industrial action. Among the measures to be announced will be plans to give the UK’s 363,000 international traders a more streamlined customs process. Conservative MPs have been pushing for tax cuts, and although Jeremy Hunt has so far appeared to be resistant to those calls, all eyes will be on him.

MPs told of bulk applications to force-fit pre-payment meters

A FORMER magistrate has told MPs he was dealing with a spreadsheet of 50-100 applications at a time for energy companies to force-fit prepayment meters in people’s homes.

The forced installation of expensive pre-payment meters in the homes of energy customers – and how this was allowed to happen – is being investigated by cross-party MPs in a joint Justice and Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Committee.

An investigation by The Times of London revealed how vulnerable customers – including disabled and mentally ill people – were being forced by British Gas on to the pay-as-you-go meters, or have their gas switched off.

Charges

Former magistrate Robin CantrillFenwick told the BEIS and Justice Committees: “In 2017, Ofgem published some statutory consultation outcomes in which they said that warrants were being used too readily, there were less

invasive alternatives, they were concerned about failures to identify vulnerable customers, that some vulnerable customers were going through traumatic experiences and some companies were applying excessively high charges.

“I think it’s important to understand that, because in 2019, despite all of those concerns, the process was changed such that the field was tilted even further in favour of the energy companies.

“We were required to take on, as magistrates, an almost entirely performative and uncritical role applying and approving these warrant applications in bulk. Much less judicial discretion in the current process.

“It’s a bulk process – rather than having individual warrants in front of us, there would be a spreadsheet. That spreadsheet would contain many more applications in a list. I now know that some of the courthouses are dealing with up to 1,000 – it was my experience that I was dealing with 50 to 100.

“The occupants don’t know when, where, what time the application is being dealt with, and there is much, much less information on the spreadsheet.”

The hearing was told that, between July 2021 and December 2022, magistrates granted a ‘staggering’ 536,139 warrants, refusing just 75.

Firms have been subsequently banned from installing prepayment energy meters under warrant. That moratorium is due to expire at the end of March.

JEREMY HUNT

FIRST CLASS Royal Mail issues the first stamps with the profile of King Charles III

Woman jailed after false grooming gang claims

A 22-YEAR-old woman has been jailed for eightand-a-half years after falsely claiming to have been the victim of an Asian grooming gang.

Eleanor Williams, of Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court on Tuesday after making a series of false rape allegations.

In a Facebook post in May 2020, which was shared more than 100,000 times, she described being beaten, abused and trafficked by Asian men.

She also posted pictures of her injuries, but the court heard that she had caused them to herself, using a hammer.

Fiction

In January, a jury found Williams guilty of eight counts of doing acts tending and intended to pervert the course of justice.

She pleaded guilty to a ninth count at an earlier hearing.

In sentencing remarks, which were broadcast on television, Honorary Recorder of Preston Judge Robert Altham said: “It is troubling to say the least that she shows no significant signs of remorse.”

He said there is no explanation for why the defendant made the allegations, which he described as “complete fiction”.

He added: “Unless and until the defendant chooses to say why she has told these lies we will not know.”

Williams looked straight ahead and thanked the judge after he sentenced her.

In statements read to the court on Monday, three of the men Williams had accused described attempts to take their own life following her allegations.

Mohammed Ramzan, a business owner who Williams alleged had trafficked her, told the court: “I have had countless death threats made over social media from people all over the world

because of what they thought I was involved in.”

Williams claimed Mr Ramzan, 43, had groomed her from the age of 12, put her to work in brothels in Amsterdam, and sold her at an auction there.

But the court heard that, at the time she was in the Netherlands, his bank card was being used at a B&Q in Barrow.

Williams also gave police an account of being taken to Blackpool, where she said Mr Ramzan threatened her, and she was taken to different addresses and forced to have sex with men.

When police made inquiries, they found she had travelled to the seaside resort alone and stayed in a hotel, where she bought a Pot Noodle from a nearby shop and then remained in her room watching YouTube on her phone.

Speaking outside court following the hearing, Mr Ramzan said: “There’s no winners here today, I feel no sense of triumph, only sadness.

Russia ready to extend Ukraine grain export deal

A RUSSIAN delegation at talks with senior UN officials has said Moscow is ready to accept an extension to a grain export deal that has helped bring down global food prices amid the war with Ukraine – but only for 60 days.

The United Nations stated it ‘notes’ the Russian announcement about the extension, and reaffirmed its support for the deal struck in July as ‘part of the global response to the most severe cost-of-living crisis in a generation’.

The UN and Turkey brokered the deal that allows Ukraine – one of the world’s key breadbaskets – to ship food and fertiliser from three of its Black Sea ports.

Suppliers

Jordan Trengove, who spent time in custody after being falsely accused of rape by Williams, told reporters he planned to take action against the police. He does not believe Williams has shown any remorse and said: “I don’t think the sentence is long enough.”

Supt Matthew Pearman, of Cumbria Police, said Williams’ allegations led to “public displays of mass anger” in Barrow, with protests held outside the police station and in a retail park. In the letter to the judge, she said: “I’m not saying I’m guilty but I know I have done wrong on some of this and I’m sorry.

“I’m devastated at the trouble that has been caused in Barrow. If I knew what consequences would have come from that status I never would have posted it.”

Louise Blackwell KC, defending Williams, said her client maintained the allegations were true.

The 120-day agreement, which helped take some of the sting out of rising global food prices, was renewed last November. That extension expires on Saturday, and another 120-day extension was on the table.

Ukraine and Russia are key global suppliers of wheat, barley, sunflower oil and other food to countries in Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia where millions of people do not have enough to eat.

Russia was also the world’s top exporter of fertiliser before the war.

The so-called Black Sea Grain Initiative involves seaborne checks of cargo by UN, Russian, Ukrainian and Turkish officials to ensure that only foodstuffs – not weapons – are being transported.

The amount of grain leaving Ukraine has dropped even as the deal works to keep food flowing.

Inspections of ships under the grain initiative have fallen sharply since they started in earnest in September 2022, and vessels have been backed up.

Screen grab taken from CCTV issued by Cumbria Police showing Eleanor Williams shopping in a Spar, at a time she claimed she was being trafficked.

Michael Calvert Green Party

A Green in the room will make the difference

CLIMATE breakdown is the most important challenge we will face in our lifetimes. It is a threat to our security and the very foundations of our society. Don’t take my word for it – David Attenborough warned recently: “If we continue on our current path, we will face the collapse of everything that gives us our security.”

We need local, as well as national, leadership that is up to the challenge.

Emergency

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council declared a Climate Emergency in 2019 and has adopted a target of reaching net zero carbon emissions for its own operations by 2030. Their recommended pathway required emissions to be reduced to around 2,500 tonnes by 2022, but according to their own report, emissions were at 3,700 tonnes, barely down from the do-nothing ‘business as usual’ position. Without more determined leadership, they are going to miss their net zero target by a very long way.

There is so much that could be done.

The Council’s Action Plan for 2021-22 discounted investing in large-scale renewable generation projects, like solar parks, partly because of the ‘low rating of political acceptability’. Other councils made more farsighted decisions:

Cambridgeshire County Council invested in a solar farm that is reducing its carbon footprint

and providing over £350,000 every year to support council services and keep Council Tax down. They are now looking at building a solar park with twice the capacity.

Why is TWBC so far behind the curve? This is not about party politics. In Cambridgeshire, the Conservatives are the largest party on the Council.

Matt Bailey Independent

It’s about a lack of vision and a lack of ambition. Planning powers should be used to the utmost to promote sustainable development. Incredibly, the Government has not made it a requirement for new developments to have solar panels on their roofs. But there is still much that councils can do. Bristol City Council, which now has 25 Green

councillors, makes clear to developers that it will assess their planning applications against sustainability criteria which include securing a 20 per cent saving in CO2 emissions from energy use through on-site generation of renewable energy. Our Council also needs to follow the example of Lewes District Council (8 Green councillors). They have teamed up with six other local councils in their area to create a programme for insulating and installing renewable energy for 40,000 social homes across the region, one of the largest retrofit programmes in the country. This uses the purchasing power of councils working together to achieve economies of scale to secure funding and commission work at favourable rates, while also generating local jobs.

Solutions

This is just scratching the surface. There is so much more that could be done.

Climate breakdown is not going to wait for us to get our act together. Now, more than ever, we need a Green in the room – a Green councillor to hold the Council to account for failing to meet its own targets, and a Green councillor to propose the solutions.

And now you have the opportunity to do something about it. For the first time, the Green party is putting up candidates in every ward in May’s elections. Together we can make it happen.

Rushing to sell prize Council assets could be a mistake

MARCH 11, 2023 was a day that Tunbridge Wells may come to regret. It was the day when the Liberal Democrat, Alliance and Labour coalition running TWBC declared 11 Council assets –including five town-centre car parks – as being ‘surplus to requirements’ and identified for potential sale.

As a representative of Paddock Wood, I am very unhappy that the Wesley Centre is on the list. This is an historic building used by the local community, including children’s groups and baby classes. The people of Paddock Wood have already let the Council know – in very clear terms – how much the Wesley Centre is valued, and any move to sell it will be fiercely resisted.

Portfolio

I was also shocked to see five Tunbridge Wells car parks on the disposal list. Historically, TWBC has charged one of the lowest Council Tax rates in Kent. But this was only possible due to revenues from a portfolio of town centre car parks left to us by previous generations.

This ‘family silver’ may soon be sold. The car parks deemed surplus are at the Great Hall (behind the BBC), Mount Pleasant Avenue (behind the Hotel du Vin), Meadow Road (opposite Fenwick), Torrington Road (by the

station) and Linden Road (near the Pantiles). What will become of these car parks if (or when) they’re sold?

I suspect the answer is retirement flats. The latest plan for the old cinema site is for an

The Wesley Centre in Paddock Wood

eight-storey building offering ‘care plus’ accommodation. This type of complex – where residents live independently but with access to on-site carers – typically attracts residents with an average age of 80.

With that plan already approved, there’s a high chance that the Great Hall and Mount Pleasant Avenue Car Park sites will go the same way. New developments on these sites could be eight storeys high (in line with the old cinema site plan) and, if so, will tower over Calverley Grounds.

Potential

The Meadow Road Car Park – also earmarked for disposal – is a superb town centre location with a great deal of potential. It could become a cinema complex, a theatre or a university building, all of which would breathe new life into our town centre. But developers will probably be more interested in retirement flats there, too.

This all feels like a big mistake. The Wesley Centre is a community asset that is most definitely not surplus to requirements. And selling our Tunbridge Wells car parks will lead to fewer visitors to the town centre and cut long-term revenues for the Council.

The new developments that come in their place will also change the character of Tunbridge Wells forever. I fear that we’ll be left with a collection of oversized tower blocks that we’ll never be able to remove.

Michael Calvert is a solicitor and lives in Culverden. He is standing as the Green Party candidate for the Ward in May’s local elections.

Cllr Matthew Bailey was first elected to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in 2019. He represents Paddock Wood West as an independent.

‘SURPLUS SITE’

And another thing…

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

Community café

An open letter to Miss Katie Neve at Speldhurst Parish Council:

I AM dismayed to learn that it has not been possible to renew the operating licence of the Pavilion Café at Langton Green. Emma is an inspiring example of a local woman and mother who has worked tirelessly over the last five years (despite the pandemic) to build a successful business.

She is a woman who employs five other local women, many of whom are single mothers, and provides a safe space for many more. I can personally recall what a lifeline the Pavilion was for me in the first few months of my son’s life when I could relax in a safe and friendly place whilst breastfeeding.

Now that my children are older and attend Langton School, we visit the café multiple times a week. Given the imminent closure of the Rusthall Children’s Centre, an environment like this is a rarity and must be protected.

You say you recognise the significant contributions the café has made to the local community but that terms could not be agreed. Perhaps you could provide some more clarity around this or publish the minutes of these meetings? As a Langton Green resident, I would

Taking Responsibility

I read with interest a reader’s letter about litter in Tunbridge Wells. Given the absolutely dreadful state of the A21 between Kipping’s Cross and Tunbridge Wells, with lay-bys on both sides of the road covered in litter and extensive fly-tipping on the southbound stretch, I spent hours trying to find out who was responsible for cleaning up the mess.

I finally spoke to TWBC, who told me that as the A21 is NOT classified as a major trunk road, TWBC are in fact responsible and not Highways. I have written to Greg Clark our MP, Ben Chapelard, Leader of TWBC, William Benson, CEO of TWBC, Gary Stevenson, the Head of Housing, Health and Environment at TWBC and only the MP has replied. Not one other person has seen fit to carry out their statutory duty.

My question to all of them was: Why is the road in such a terrible state and when will it be cleaned? Hardly contentious from a taxpayer.

Finally, your ‘Calverley’ comment journalist who has rightly condemned the litter, lays the blame at the feet of Highways, when in fact it is TWBC. This is because it is impossible to complain about the state of the A21 on the TWBC website, as it doesn’t recognise the A21. Come on TWBC! Have you cut the litter collections or is it just pure incompetence? You’re a new council whose members don’t respond to constituents. Hardly a good start.

Laura Collins Goudhurst

like to understand what consultation has been had with the local community, particularly mothers and the elderly, who are the main beneficiaries of Emma’s café.

In his statement from the LGCSA, Guy Lambert states that the café has expanded in a manner which limits other uses for the building, although no detail has been provided on what other uses he is referring to. The LGCSA, who benefit from funding and the support of the village, have an obligation to the wider community and not just those who enjoy the sporting facilities. Mr Lambert also recognises that many view ‘a café’ as central to village life at Langton, although I think many would agree it is this café specifically, the café environment forged by Emma, that many people view as central to village life. I believe the LGCSA are being rather optimistic in thinking that someone else will be able to replicate Emma’s success in building an

inclusive community hub. I sincerely doubt that another business would consider investing their time and money in these premises when there is a risk that it could simply become ‘unviable’ in the future.

I appreciate that the café’s remit grew during the pandemic but what has been created by Emma in difficult circumstances must be treasured. Reverting to the way things were before the pandemic isn’t necessarily in the best interests of the wider community. Closing the Pavilion Café to make way for ‘other uses’ of the building will have a negative effect on many and we are yet to have any clarity on the upside of this café’s closure.

I appreciate the opportunity to express my views on this issue and look forward to any further information you can provide.

BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION. That’s what Calverley has been accused of by his own lawyer who has sacked him as a client. Many will believe the claim to be true. (Is there no loyalty?) Calverley robustly refutes the allegation and offers his reader the truth and nothing but the truth…

… It all started when he sold a seaside apartment and his lawyer carried out a routine background check to ensure he was a regular chap and not involved in any nasty deeds. That check, however, indicated he was a Politically Exposed Person (PEP) at high risk of being involved in ‘bribery and corruption’. Now Calverley might be many things but an outright villain, a crook, a criminal – never. So he turned detective and found… …. that the background check confused him with a much younger, bald-headed, disbarred American lawyer with links to Moldova. Calverley has a full head of hair, is a journalist of some standing (oh yes, he is) and had to look up Moldova to find out where it is. Calverley’s ‘crime’ was to have the same first name, middle initial and surname as that US lawyer. And what was the reaction of his own UK lawyers?

They refused to review their decision to sack him and admitted that they did ‘not have the time or resources’ to process and check personal data. They also threatened ‘serious cost consequences’ when Calverley mentioned the words ‘defamation’ and court action. Watch this space. And look out for crowdfunding to pay legal bills.

Plane and True

It’s not a kind donation but a reflection of the ramifications of Gatwick Airport operating 24/7

The Gatwick Airport Community Trust fund may offer some benefits but, what is not being made clear is that the fundings are not kind donations from this commercial airport.

The fund reflects the impact of aircraft noise and the ramifications on the ground of having an airport that seeks to grow by rebuilding the emergency runway as a second runway. Sadly, Gatwick Airport presents the fund almost as a benefit for residents of Surrey and Sussex, a ‘good news PR story’ of having such an airport in West Sussex. The truth is that the fund reflects the suffering caused to millions of residents by its day-and-night operations – in no

way does it reflect the destructive impact such an airport has on the natural environment, both locally and across the planet.

Pre-Covid, Gatwick operated 285,000 flights a year – 11,200 during summer nights, when residents increasingly seek to have windows open as the temperature of our planet rises due to global heating. And 3,250-night flights in winter, with multiple dispensations for additional flights allowed by the Government.

The funding arrangements for the Gatwick Airport Community Trust are set out in the Legal Agreement (S106) between Gatwick Airport Limited, West Sussex County Council and Crawley Borough Council. The funding calculation links the level of annual funding to passenger numbers, ensuring that as passenger numbers grow, the amount of funds available to support local communities also increases. This commercial airport also pays into the Community Trust all revenue received for departure noise infringements by aircraft.

CAGNE Communities Against Gatwick Noise and Emissions

LITTER BUGS: PART TWO: Last week this column focused on the litter louts turning the garden of England into an eyesore. This week Calverley watched as three men threw food wrappers on to the ground as they climbed into their white van in a supermarket car park. When Calverley raised an eyebrow and started to walk over, they made certain gestures and roared off. Minutes later, Calverley found himself pulling up behind them at a nearby road junction. They noticed him, wound down their windows and threw out more litter before pulling away. The message was clear: We can do what we like. Sadly, that’s the truth. There’s little interest from police in burglaries, car thefts and antisocial behaviour. What chance of them or anyone else bothering with litter louts. Surely it’s time for zero tolerance.

WFH: Never a big fan of working from home, Calverley notes with dismay reports that some parents are now allowing their kids to take Fridays off school and join them on an early start to the weekend. That’ll give youngsters a real work ethic; letting them know they can dip out when they want. Shame on you. Just don’t moan when your kids are still living at home in their early 30s.

FINAL THOUGHT: With all of the continuing confusion in Scotland over gender identity, Calverley can’t but help wonder if it has anything to do with the wearing of the kilt? Possibly not.

Chin chin, dear reader...

Leila Simons Langton Green

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

pupils are inspired daily by the essence of the Scouting movement’

Pupils at one of Tunbridge Wells’ leading prep schools have marked the 166th birthday of Robert Baden-Powell, their noted former pupil who is famous for being the founder of the Scouting movement. Baden-Powell, whose birthday was on February 22, attended the school in the 1860s under Headmaster Thomas Allfree. He credited his time at Rose Hill, when he explored the nearby common and woods, with the creation of the Scouts many years later.

Happiness

His book ‘Scouting for Boys’ was the fourth-bestselling book of the twentieth century and sold 150 million copies. He kept in touch with the school until his death in Kenya in 1941.

In his final letter to the Scouts, Baden-Powell wished the Scouts a happy life: “One step towards happiness is to make yourself healthy and strong while you are a boy, so that you can be useful and so you can enjoy life when you are a man.”

It went on to say: “Try and leave this world a little better than you found it and when your turn comes to die, you can die happy in feeling that at any rate you have not wasted your time but have done your best. ‘Be prepared’ in this way, to live happy and to die happy – stick to your Scout Promise always – even after you

have ceased to be a boy – and God help you to do it.”

A spokesperson for the co-ed Rose Hill School, which accepts pupils aged 3 to 12, told the Times: “The school is very proud of its links with the founder of the Scouts and Girl Guides. Last year the school launched its own Scout troop to join the already thriving Cub, Brownie and Rainbow clubs.”

Philippa Lang, Scout Leader and Deputy

Head, added: “The Scouting movement is as important today as it was when it was founded in 1910.

Make your spare room work for you & earn an income from hosting European pupils on their school trips.

Make your spare room work for you & earn an income from home!

We welcome schools throughout the year including summer stays.The groups arrive on a Monday and stay 3 or 4 nights. Their busy schedules mean they are out all day from 7.30am – 7.00pm.

Hosting suits everyone; single people, couples with or without children & retired people.

Stephanie Heymer

BE PREPARED Scouting is part of school life at Rose Hill

“Our pupils face very different challenges, but the ambitions of the movement are still the same, which in essence is to be a good citizen. Our pupils spend time working as a team, as well as spending time outdoors, using their resilience to overcome challenges.”

If your child is interested in joining the Rose Hill Scouts, the troop is open to both girls and boys in Years 6 to 8. For information, contact: philippa.lang@rosehillschool.co.uk

Hosting suits everyone: single people, couples with or without children & retired people. We are seeking friendly and kind people who will provide the students with a warm, clean, safe and welcoming environment.

Groups arrive mid-week & stay 3-4 nights, leaving your weekends free!

Hosting with ISE is a wonderful and enriching way to give young people the opportunity of a lifetime and to create unforgettable memories.

Hosting fits around busy lives with early morning drop off & evening pick-up.

‘Our

Rose Hill pupils recently celebrated the birthday of former student and Scouts founder Robert Baden-Powell. The school reveals how it is motivated by his message…

‘The school is very proud of its links with the founder of the Scouts and Girl Guides’

Kent’s property sector optimistic about growth

WHY GOOD LANDLORDS HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR FROM NEW RENTERS’ RIGHTS

If you rent a property, you need to be aware of the changes the government is planning this year to improve conditions for private tenants. James Richards, Partner of award-winning Sales and Lettings Agent, Maddisons Residential, explains what they are and how they will affect you.

The changes aim to improve renting by giving private tenants the same guarantees of decent housing that tenants in public sector accommodation already enjoy.

They’re being brought in under the Renters’ Reform Bill (RRB), which was promised in 2019 and which campaigners say is long overdue. This will extend the terms of the Decent Homes Standards (DHS) from the public sector to the private rental sector.

This means that if you rent a property, your local authority will now have the power to inspect it to check that it:

• Is free from the most serious health and safety hazards, such as fall risks, fire risks or carbon monoxide poisoning

• Is warm and dry, meeting the minimum energy efficiency standards

• Is upgraded and does not fall into disrepair

• Has correctly located kitchen and bathrooms with decent noise insulation.

DESPITE the tough economic climate, Kent’s property sector predicts more than 70% growth over the next two years, a survey has revealed.

Industry leaders from across Kent’s property sector gathered in Faversham last month for the Property Outlook 2023 event, co-hosted by law firm Brachers, property consultants Caxtons and accountancy firm Crowe.

The event explored the opportunities and challenges faced by the sector through presentations by industry experts. This included a keynote speech from Bank of England Agent for South East and East Anglia Phil Eckersley.

Space

Despite tough economic conditions, more than 70 per cent of attendees predicted year-on-year growth in turnover and profit over the next two years. The main obstacles to growth were identified as challenges around the recruitment and retention of staff, as well as inflationary pressures (including wage increases and the rising cost of materials).

Sarah Gaines, Partner and Head of Commercial Property at Brachers, remarked: “With demand for office and industrial space still high, combined with the ongoing uptake at Kent’s science and business parks, there is a lot to feel positive

about.”

Since the pandemic, which prompted the hybrid-working revolution, many businesses have re-evaluated their office space. Over 80% of the businesses surveyed at the Property Outlook event operate a hybrid office/work-from-home mode. However, most businesses’ office space strategies have now been formulated, and few are intending to downsize in the near future.

Charlotte Laherty, Director, Head of Commercial Property Management & Investments at Caxtons, noted: “Most businesses (74%) who participated in the event survey did not expect to change their office footprint over the next two years.

“More than 64% of survey respondents have already, or expect to change, their interior office space layout to allow better for flexible working.”

Within the county, commercial property remains particularly attractive. As Laherty comments: “Expectations at the Property Outlook event were that the focus for property development investment across the next two years is likely to be in commercial property (44%) and residential (31%). According to Caxtons, the property consultants have seen signs of new requirements, which are on average, smaller than before, with newly-formed companies and smaller SMEs opting for serviced office space.

Cut the bills with energy efficiency in your home

By Lisa Salmon

AS MANY people struggle to pay their energy bills, a new study suggests two-thirds of Brits would introduce eco-friendly measures if it saved them money.

Research by the sustainability and money-saving platform

SaveMoneyCutCarbon found 66% of householders would implement more green behaviours to save money, while 45% said the next house they bought would be energy efficient.

While explaining how to save as much money as possible on home energy, sustainability guru Martin Evans, aka Mr Net Zero, estimates that energy-saving measures can cut power bills by as much as 90 per cent.

Cost-of-living

Evans, a civil engineer who specialises in low-energy housing and buildings, understands that, particularly during the current cost-of-living crisis, most people don’t have the money to invest large amounts in making their home super-

energy-efficient. So, what can financially-strapped homeowners do to ensure their energy costs are as low as possible?

Those planning to stay in their home long-term could benefit from a 10-year plan, suggests Evans. Raising capital by getting a lifetime mortgage, or a pension lump sum to invest in energy-saving measures, such as heat pumps, and/or solar energy generation would pay off in the long term.

“Otherwise, you’re left with trying to do minor things – the basics that everyone should be able to do.” These include…

1. Check and install loft insulation. Check how much loft insulation your house has, or get an expert to do this for you. “It doesn’t cost thousands, and it can improve energy efficiency,” says Evans.

2. Draughtproof. Feel where heat’s escaping through doors and windows, and block gaps. Draught excluders and heavy curtains can also help keep the heat in.

3. Use LED light bulbs.

The SaveMoneyCutCarbon research found 51% of householders want to swap all traditional light bulbs in their home for LED by the end of the year to reduce energy bills.

4. Reduce hot water circulation pump use. Evans says many houses have a hot water circulation pump, which runs continuously. He explains: “When they’re running, you’ve got heat losses from the pipework. ”He says it’s a good idea to only switch the pump on half an hour before it’s needed, and not to leave it on all the time.

5. Reduce water use with aerated showers and taps Evans points out that while showers use a lot less water than baths, aerated showers only use around a third of the water of a standard shower while feeling the same.

“All these things can make a significant difference – and they’re pretty simple to do, that’s the nice thing.”

If you keep your properties in good repair, this will make no difference. In fact, the government’s A Fairer Private Rented Sector White Paper last summer revealed that over 79% of the rental stock within the private rented sector would meet the standards set out by the DHS. But if your properties are among the 21% that currently fall short of these standards, you will need to bring them up to scratch or face a criminal prosecution.

Additionally, the RRB will:

• Scrap no fault evictions

• Create a register of landlords

• Introduce a private renters’ ombudsman to help enforce tenants’ rights

• Make it illegal for landlords to refuse to rent properties to people who receive benefits.

The RRB is expected to be debated and voted on within the next couple of months, so if you rent property, you’ll want to keep an eye on how this develops, but for landlords and agents who take pride in looking after their tenants, changes that introduce minimum standards across the sector can only be a good thing.

Despite tough economic times, property leaders in the region remain positive about the future

Life &Times

Portrait of a lady

Jade Tinkler’s ‘40 Over 40’ exhibition… Arts P22

1)Fragrance

Spend £80 or more on her favourite fragrance and receive this stunning Fragrance gift set free.

Fenwick, Royal Victoria Place

Monday – Saturday 9am – 5.30pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm

5)Children’s choice for Mummy

This incredible store literally has it all, a perfect place for the children to choose something special for their Mummy

Jeremy’s Home Store, Monson Road

Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

6)Accessorise every room in the house

If you are stuck for ideas, the team at Trevor Mottram will definitely be able to find something to suit your Mother’s tastes. From a wooden spoon to wonderful wall hangings, and much in between.

Trevor Mottram, The Pantiles

Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5.30pm

Visit the brilliant team at The Cove for something special to give your mother on Sunday. Maybe some stunning hand-tied, fresh flowers or a beautiful dried-flower bouquet? They also have a wonderful range of gin, sparkling wine, candles and diffusers. Flowers start from £30, we recommend you order in advance at https://thecove.shop/.

The Cove, High Street

Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm

3)Hottest colours this Spring

A huge range of clothes, accessories and handbags in this season’s hottest colours – all the pinks, silver and emerald green.

R&B Accessories, Royal Victoria Place

Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4pm

7)Decorative and cosy treasures

Something for all budgets and tastes, an absolute treasure trove of gift ideas awaits…. From garden accessories to beautiful glasses, hand creams to baskets and much more.

Petit Jardin, Chapel Place

Monday – Saturday 10am – 5.30pm

4)Get Creative

Have fun and celebrate with your awesome mum from 12.30-2.30pm on Sunday, painting and making memories in the studio. Book in advance, £10 to secure your place at https://www.manicceramix.co.uk

Manic Ceramix Camden Road

12.30-2.30 Mothering Sunday special

S: @rtwtogether

W: www.rtwtogether.com

Address: 52 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XF

Mother's Day in Tunbridge Wells Don’t panic if you aren’t sorted yet, we have got you covered with ideas for Mother’s Day with a hand-picked selection suggested by some of your favourite Tunbridge Wells businesses …

Fenwick

Trevor Mottram

Jeremy's Home Store

Le Petit Jardin

The Cove

R & B Accessories

Manic Ceramix

8)Lose yourself in a book

A lovely range of gifts and cards to accompany a book by her favourite author, or introduce her to something new to discover.

Waterstones, Calverley Road

Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm

9)Say it with words

Sometimes a card can convey the message from our heart far better - one of the best ranges of cards available.

Zebra Cards, High Street Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5pm

11)Lunch on the High Weald Belle

Enjoy a steam train journey together with a tasty Mothering Sunday Lunch on board the High Weald Belle, travelling between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge. £60 per person and the train departs at 12.55pm. Booking is essential www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk.

Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Nevill Terrace

10)Chocolate indulgence

The clever team at Hotel Chocolat have created two tailor-made chocolate selections especially for Mother’s Day. Choose between the £14.95 or the £24.95, chocolate heaven.

Hotel Chocolat, Royal Victoria Place

Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5.30pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm

15)Sunday Roasts

12)Sparkles and bangles

Treat your Mother to some special jewellery with this brilliant offer from Seasalt, with an offer of 20% off all jewellery until Sunday Seasalt, High Street

Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5.30pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm

13)Afternoon Tea

Does your mother have a sweet tooth? Visit Ruby’s of London and select a gift box to go with her favourite cup-cakes or take her for afternoon tea.

Ruby’s of London, Monson Road

Tuesday – Sunday 9am – 5.30pm

14)All Day Brunch

Spend time together catching up in the cosy setting of Juliet’s Café and indulge your palate with a special All Day Brunch Menu. You must book in advance for tables of 2-10 people by calling 01892 522931. The upstairs drawing room is open for walk-ins throughout the day.

Juliet’s Café, High Street

Sunday 9am – 4.30pm (last orders 3.30pm)

There are so many great local restaurants to support, here are just a few suggestions:

TN1 Bar & Kitchen, Monson Road

To book visit www.tn1barkitchen.co.uk or call 01892 513900

The Tunbridge Wells Hotel, The Pantiles

To book visit www.thetunbridgewellshotel.com or call 01892 530501

The Guinea, Calverley Road

To book visit www.festandrevel.co.uk or call 01892 533978

White Bear, High Street

To book visit www.the-white-bear.co.uk or call 01892 318010

Framptons, The Pantiles

To book visit www.framptonsbar.co.uk or call 01892 530819

Zebra Cards

Ruby's of London

Juliets

Hotel Chocolat

want women to be celebrated, seen, heard and empowered’

Jade Tinkler, a professional photographer, is hosting a one-off exhibition of women’s portraits titled, ‘40 Over 40’. Here she tells Eileen Leahy about her inspiration for the show, which is on at Fordcombe Village Hall…

So Jade, how long have you been a professional photographer and how did you get started?

I’m just entering my 11th year as a professional. I got started as most do – it was a hobby that people started wanting to book me for, and one thing led to another!

How easy was it to get yourself up and running?

When my eldest was born, I discovered ‘newborn’ photography and so I started doing more of that. I absolutely adored it but what I didn’t like seeing was how the mums shied away from the camera – that really had an impact on me. Over the years of photographing new families, I realised there was always the familiar story of women not wanting to be photographed, of not feeling photogenic, of not wanting to be seen, and so I wanted to change that.

How did you help change the narrative around the issue of women feeling more positive about their self-image?

I decided that as a photographer, I wanted to help women to be seen, heard, celebrated and empowered – whether it’s in their personal lives, or for their business. Now I strive to help women exist in photographs, to create a legacy for future generations, to see themselves as worthy of being celebrated, and to see themselves as beautiful.

‘All those involved are just ordinary women. They’re not models and they haven’t been chosen based on their looks or extraordinary lives’

Do you work mainly locally, and if so who are your type of clients?

I create legacy portraits from my home studio in Langton Green for all sorts of women of different ages and for different reasons – women who want to celebrate a certain stage (or change) in their life, or those wanting to celebrate long-standing friendships or relationships.

I take photos of a lot of women in business and also have the honour of photographing ballet dancers who want to celebrate their journey through dance.

What gave you the idea of doing the ‘40 Over 40’ project?

The concept of photographing ‘40 over 40’ is actually a global movement within the photography industry to help women over the age of 40 feel seen and heard. When I learnt of it, it really resonated with me as I actually turned 40 myself during this time and so I felt that I wanted to help change the narrative surrounding women in their mid-lives. So many women feel lost and unrepresented by the media. It’s a pivotal stage in a woman’s life that should be embraced and celebrated.

Who are the women involved in your new show?

All the women involved are just ordinary

women. They’re not models and they haven’t been chosen based on their looks or extraordinary lives. Most were nervous about being photographed and have been united in their desire to celebrate (or for some, to challenge) themselves, to take themselves on a new journey and share their stories. Women have travelled from as far as Dorset, Suffolk, Herefordshire, as well as Kent and the surrounding counties, to be involved. Although I began this venture with the intention of photographing just 40 women, I plan to keep building on the collection of those involved, and therefore I feel the name of the project will have to change eventually…

What was your selection criteria for choosing these women – apart from the age?

This project was open for any women over the age of 40 – so I have women spanning two decades, and the average age of the women featured in the exhibition is 50. Aside from this, I didn’t have a selection criteria for the project and I certainly didn’t want to just choose women with extraordinary lives or those with a specific look. I have photographed women from all different walks of life, and many have experienced different

challenges and opportunities. Due to the nature of the portrait experience I provide, I do have to charge a session fee, which covers the hair and make-up stylist, and time and resources spent working with each client. But I wanted to keep the project as organic as possible.

What do you hope that this exhibition will achieve?

I believe this collection of beautiful portraits and honest stories is hugely powerful and the women involved have shared valuable advice that can benefit not only women of this demographic, but those approaching this milestone, as well as the girls and the young women of today. It will help other women to feel ‘normal’, to feel represented, seen, understood, celebrated and inspired. My aim is that this collection will be exhibited again in the future, to maximise reach and accessibility. I hope that it helps to disrupt the narrative that we’re so frequently subjected to, which is that youth equals beauty. And that only women under a certain age, and with a certain body type are worthy of being photographed. This is absolutely not the case, and I strive to show how beautiful and valuable older women, of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds, really are.

How long is the exhibition on for?

This exhibition event is only on March 18. However, I do hope to run the exhibition again in the future, for a longer duration, to make it more accessible. I strongly feel the message being shared with this collection should be seen by as many people as possible.

For more information, visit: 40over40.co.uk

The ‘40 Over 40’ exhibition by Jade Tinkler is on from 5pm to 6.30pm on Saturday March 18 at Fordcombe Village Hall. Entry is free but the recommended dress code is smart/glam because, as Jade says, “You are worthy of feeling special!” She adds: “ You will have a chance to walk the red carpet, take selfies against a beautiful flower wall, and browse the portraits and interviews.

“There will be a charity prize draw in support of Women’s Aid, a national charity that is working to end domestic abuse against woman and children. All prizes have been generously donated by amazing local women in business.”

Details at: jadetinklerphotography.co. uk/40o40-raffle-prizes/

‘I

40 OVER 40

FACE VALUE (clockwise from top left) Ann Marie, Sangeeta, Kate, Caroline

POWDERMILLS B A Country House Hotel

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A special offer for two people sharing an Executive/Balcony Double or Twin Room, including full English breakfast with Dinner for two from a special 3 course menu on one of the nights. Upgrade to a Junior Suite at £50 per night. Upgrade to full à la carte menu for £20pp. For stays up to 31st May 2023.

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Set in a beautiful 80 acre Sussex estate with gardens, lakes, woods and fields, PowderMills is a charming Georgian Grade II listed Country House Hotel. We’re dog friendly and there are lovely walks to be had within our grounds and surrounding countryside. Within walking distance of the medieval town of Battle and adjoining Battle Abbey, you can also enjoy glorious walks on the historic 1066 Battlefields from the grounds of the hotel. Our perfect location offers lots to do close by with Herstmonceux and Bodiam Castles, Seddlescombe Vineyards and Old Town Hastings and beach all on our doorstep. This Offer is subject to availability. Please see our website for Terms and Conditions.

Please Book Direct at www.powdermillshotel.com using Promo Code PM02

PowderMills Hotel, Powdermill Lane, Battle, East Sussex TN33 OSP Tel 01424 775511 reservations@powdermillshotel.com

Top ways to treat your mum this Mother’s Day

From stately homes and chic restaurants to rolling gardens, you’ll find

WHY NOT spoil the most important woman in your life this Mother’s Day? Here is a round-up of some of the most indulgent experiences for you to enjoy in the area.

Salomons Estate

A real hidden gem found in the heart of Kent’s picturesque countryside, Salomons Estate is offering the ultimate Mother’s Day experience for mums who long for the gift of quality time.

Choose from a mouth-watering Sunday lunch in the cosy, pub-inspired restaurant, a delightful afternoon tea in the conservatory, or a countryside escape in one of the beautifully refurbished cottages.

‘Mother and Me’ afternoon tea from £22.50 (17 March 2023)

Sunday lunch: Two courses £27.50, or three

courses for £31.50

Countryside escapes: From £150 per night

Vouchers are also available to purchase as gift experiences.

One Warwick Park Hotel

Treat mum to a spot of luxury at the awardwinning One Warwick Park hotel. Nestled alongside The Pantiles, this lavish landmark is known for its divine dining and sumptuous suites. This Mother’s Day, guests can spoil their mum with a host of unique and spectacular celebrations.

Enjoy an indulgent two- or three-course

Sunday lunch cooked to perfection at The Brasserie, a blissful afternoon tea of bubbles and treats, or a relaxing overnight stay in one of the 39 beautifully designed hotel suites.

Mother’s Day afternoon tea: From £27.50

Sunday lunch: Two courses £27.50, or three courses for £32.50

Hotel suites and homestays: From £104 per night

Vouchers are also available to purchase as gift experiences.

Bewl Water

Combining beautiful meadows, native wildlife, and nature-rich woodlands, family walks at Bewl Water make for the perfect pastime this Mother’s Day. The self-guided routes explore the highlights of the High Weald, one of England’s most precious green spaces, that surround the reservoir famously known as South East England’s largest lake.

There are walking trails fit for all ages, and maps can be collected from the Waterfront Café, where mums will receive a free chocolate treat and special gift voucher.

Clockwise from top: Fred Yates, Figures on a woodland path – £3,600 + fees. Cressida Campbell, Jacaranda in full blossom – Est: £120,000 - £160,000. Platinum and seven stone diamond ring – £1,800 + fees. After Lord Frederick Leighton, bronze, The Sluggard – £10,000 + fees. Chinese Imperial blue glazed ritual offering vessel and cover– £11,500 + fees.

an experience to suit your tastes right on your doorstep…

BEWL WATER

ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL

Four Beak Brewery beers that perfectly fit the bill

In his regular column for the Times, Alex Greig from Fuggles Beer Café shines a spotlight on the Lewes-based Beak Brewery, who happen to be one of Alex’s favourite craft ale suppliers…

Several years ago I was contacted by a chap called Danny. He was setting up a new brewery and was also cuckoo brewing at a few places around the country. If you’re not familiar with the term ‘cuckoo brewing’, then essentially it means using other breweries’ spare space to produce beers under an individual’s or micro brewer’s own name.

It’s not unusual for us to be contacted by new breweries, it happens all the time. But this particular one stood out a bit more as the aforementioned Danny had some strong pedigree in the Food and Drink industry. Not only is he an award-winning journalist, he’s also the author of ‘Food Unwrapped’. He was also developing his beers with some of the country’s best breweries, learning and developing his recipes along the way. So when we took some beer in, it was duly delivered by the man himself in his VW estate – proper ‘craft graft’!

Talented

Time went on and news came through that Danny and his small team had found a site in Lewes, under the cliffs and named themselves Beak Brewery. They’d ordered their own brewing kit and hired themselves a rather talented brewer in Robyn Head-Fourman, who had just spent four years working nearby at another of my favourite places: Burning Sky Brewery.

Beak has never locked itself into a set range of beers. Instead it chooses to primarily focus on producing some of the UK’s best hop-forward pales and IPAs, alongside a smattering of stouts and porter, and some mixed fermentation brews. Over the last couple of years Beak has become a

firm favourite with us here at Fuggles – and you, it seems – as its beers regularly fly out of our pubs, which is no surprise considering the quality.

Watch out for an exciting Beak cask release at Fuggles’ pubs over the coming weeks, as well as some amazing collaborations with a few of the US East Coast’s finest brewers.

Oh, and also do check out ‘These Hills’ –Beak’s summer beer festival in Lewes – as it features lots of our favourite breweries across one great weekend.

Our latest drop at Fuggles features five beers that really define who Beak are right now for me.

I believe that the brewery is in the UK’s top three or so producers of hoppy pales and IPAs right now. Let’s start with ‘Parade’ – a 6% IPA and one of the very few beers regularly available from Beak, which is great as it’s one of my favourites! Brewed with Citra, Mosaic and Idaho 7, it’s loaded with ripe, juicy mango notes, orange and pineapple. It’s soft and juicy but has enough bitterness to send you straight back in for another glug.

‘Lome’ features an as yet unnamed hop variety we know as HBC 585. This one, also at 6%, is like an all-grown-up tropical fruit juice. Passion fruit, mango and guava all come through

aplenty in this juicy IPA.

Stepping things up slightly is ‘Pillo’, a 7% IPA – brewed with Idaho 7, Vic Secret and Mosaic hops. Stone fruits, pineapple and a touch of piney bitterness lead the way with some juicy passionfruit on the finish.

To finish things off, there’s an 8% double IPA called ‘Sappp’. It’s got lots of oats and wheat to help soften the beer and carry through the big hop charge courtesy of oodles of Simcoe and Citra hops. Lemon, mango, melon and orange instantly hit you on the nose and again when you taste. It’s a big beer that doesn’t drink its ABV but packs a lot in when it comes to flavour.

Motoring News

VW updates ID.3 with a new look, more tech and upgraded interior

VOLKSWAGEN has unveiled its refreshed ID.3, bringing a range of enhancements to the compact electric car.

First introduced back in 2019, the ID.3 was the first Volkswagen vehicle to enter into a new ‘ID’ range of electric vehicles. Now, it has been given a ‘comprehensive revamp’, according to Volkswagen, with changes made to the exterior, interior and on-board technology.

Movement

The outside of the new ID.3 closely resembles that of the original, though the front bumper has been slightly redesigned and new air intakes help to optimise the movement of air over the front wheels. Around the back there are two-part red-illuminated lights, while the section of tail light located in the boot lid is also lit up. All versions get LED headlights as standard, though Volkswagen’s more powerful ‘IQ. Light’ LED matrix headlights will be available as an option. VW has designed the ID.3’s headlights to resemble eyes. When the driver approaches, these ‘eyes’ appear to wake up and open. Inside, the doors have been remodelled to include larger handrests, while everything inside

the car is completely animal-free. The seats, for instance, are trimmed in Artvelour Eco, which is made from 71 per cent recyclate, which is a secondary raw material gathered by recycling plastic waste that has been previously disposed of ‘at least once’.

The new ID.3 follows the same basic layout for the major controls, with a new 12-inch central display being fitted. However, UK versions won’t get this upgrade just yet, with an even larger 12.4-inch display said to come into play in the middle of 2024, instead.

A new augmented reality head-up display features in the new ID.3, too, bringing ‘dynamic navigation instructions’, which are reflected on to the windscreen. A We Connect Plus system allows drivers to connect their smartphone to the car, too, allowing them to remotely control the charging process, as well as activate the air conditioning or check the battery’s state of charge.

Underneath, the ID.3 remains available with either 58 or 77kWh batteries, delivering up to 329 miles of range – the same as the current car. The smaller battery option should return up to 264 miles from a charge, too.

It’s expected that Volkswagen will release full UK pricing for the new ID.3 shortly.

Hyundai launches new Kona Electric with 304-mile range

HYUNDAI has revealed new details about its radical new Kona Electric, which gains a longer range and raft of new technology.

While it was revealed just before Christmas 2022, Hyundai released minimal details about its new second-generation crossover at the time. Like its predecessor, the Kona will be offered as an EV, as well as with hybrid and regular combustion engines. However, unlike the previous car, this new Kona has been designed first and foremost for the all-electric version.

Styling

The new model gets a radical look compared to the previous Kona, with an angular design clearly inspired by that of the Tucson. Key styling details include a full LED front light bar that runs across the width of the bonnet, as well as various ‘parametric’ hidden lights.

The new Kona has grown in size, being more than 15cm longer than the previous car, with much of this going into creating a roomier cabin. Boot space increases from 332 to 456 litres, too. There are two 12.3-inch digital displays for the

instrument cluster and main touchscreen, which come together to give a very modern look. There’s more room in the centre console thanks to a new ‘shift-by-wire’ gear selector, too. Other technology innovations include a large 12-inch head-up display, while the integration of ‘Vehicle-to-Load’ charging for the first time means the Kona’s battery can be used to charge other electrical equipment using a special adaptor. Owners will be able to use their smartphone or smartwatch to unlock the car using the ‘Digital Key 2 Touch’ feature, while driver assistance technology has been enhanced with a blind spot view monitor, which is able to alert and display if a driver tries to change lanes when something is in a blind spot.

Hyundai has tweaked the powertrains in the Kona too, with a choice of a ‘Standard Range’ and ‘Long Range’ model, which are equipped with 48.4kWh and 65.4kWh batteries respectively, with Hyundai promising a range of 304 miles with the latter.

The Kona is expected to go on sale in the spring, with prices and specifications to be announced closer to that time.

Mini confirms electric Countryman is on the way

MINI has announced that it will be creating a fully electric version of its Countryman SUV. Due to be built ‘entirely in Germany’, the electric Countryman – which is set to enter production this year – will be made at BMW’s Leipzig plant alongside BMW models like the 2 Series Active Tourer and 1 Series.

Power

Previously, the Countryman has been available with both petrol and plug-in hybrid power, but it’s expected that this new version will ditch the latter in favour of the fully electric set-up. A standard petrol version, however, is predicted to maintain a place in the line-up.

Up until this point, Mini has only offered its electric hatch as a battery-powered option in its range, while an extremely limited run of convertible versions was recently introduced.

“We are delighted to be able to hand over the first Mini ‘Made in Germany’ to our customers in a CO2-neutral manner, thanks to the plant’s sustainable energy supply. In this way, the new all-electric MINI Countryman demonstrates what the brand stands for: electrified go-kart feeling and a strong focus on a minimal environmental footprint,” said Stefanie Wurst, Head of Mini.

BMW Group will be expanding its electrical component production at Leipzig through 800million euros (circa £708m) of investment, with a future production area of 150,000sqm being used solely for the production of electric vehicle components. It also uses wind power – generated by four turbines – to help sustainably drive the plant, while since 2017, the electricity created can be temporarily stored in a battery storage farm using batteries from old BMW i3 models.

UNDER WRAPS

A camouflaged prototype of the electric Mini Countryman