Times of Tonbridge 19th June 2019

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Improvement to train delay claims while franchise award drags on

IN FULL BLOOM: The Nepalese Community stage a display of traditional dance on Cannon Lawn during the Carnival. See page 2

‘Blight on most sensitive site’ – and no affordable housing

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk AN APPLICATION to build new apartment blocks on the site of the former CAB building by the Medway has been criticised by the town’s Civic Society.

And the viability assessment on the project has found that there is no scope for affordable housing.

That means it would fail to meet Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s [TMBC] stated aim in the new draft

Local Plan that all developments should be 40 per cent ‘affordable’.

The submission by OSP follows the announcement of the sale of Nos 1-4 River Walk in April depending on planning permission going through.

The transaction caused controversy because, like the former Teen & Twenty Club, it is a publicly owned asset that has been sold off by the council.

It also wants to sell River Lawn nearby for more residential homes to be built.

OSP are proposing to demolish the existing building at No 1 and construct

MONOLITHIC BLOCK: What the new flats on River Walk would look like MONOLITHIC BLOCK: What the new flats would look like

COMMUTERS and other rail users were celebrating last week after Southeastern agreed to implement an improved compensation scheme for delayed trains – but they will have to wait until the autumn for it to take effect.

The scheme, called Delay Repay 15, means passengers who are delayed by 15 minutes or more will get money back as compensation.

Currently it only applies to hold-ups of more than 30 minutes.

The company said it was going to be introduced as part of the next franchise but the awarding of the contract has itself been delayed.

Extension

36 apartments over four storeys. These would comprise 15 one-bedroom flats and 21 two-bed apartments, with parking provided at ground-floor level.

The Civic Society’s honorary secretary, Susan Bevan, wrote to Emma Keefe, TMBC’s development control manager, on June 13.

She said: “This is one of the most sensitive sites in Tonbridge.

“Whatever building is erected here will have a major impact on views of the most beautiful stretch of the river Medway. It will also look large in views from the castle.

“It is essential that any development is of the right scale and highest quality.”

The plan ‘falls far short of what is required. It is too massive and too high in relation to adjacent buildings’.

The former CAB office is ‘built in a Kentish vernacular style and makes an

Southeastern’s tenure is due to expire on Saturday [June 22] but Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling told Parliament in April that there would be a postponement ‘while we make a decision on the competition’.

The Department for Transport [DfT] negotiated an extension up to November 10 with Govia, which owns Southeastern.

That deal includes an option to stay on until April 2020 if the government is unable to find a suitable franchise-holder in time.

Southeastern will also be upgrading its online service to cut the number of steps needed to complete claim forms by using information on previous claims and regular journeys.

A new ‘Best Fare Finder’ feature will be launched on the company’s website to help passengers obtain the best value tickets.

Continued on page 2

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RIVER WALK: Continued from page 1 attractive contribution to the character of the Conservation Area’. She says its presence ‘is much better than another monolithic block of the kind which line the river to the east of the [Big] bridge’.

Calling it a ‘blight’, she adds: “The proposed design is entirely without aesthetic merit.

“It is just another bland block of flats of a kind which Tonbridge already has too many.”

A viability assessment by S106 Management has found that the costing of the plan means OSP is not able to offer any affordable housing.

Eleanor Hoyle, TMBC’s Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health said: “The current viability assessment that has been submitted with the application 19/01108/FL makes a case for the site not being viable with any affordable housing.

“As part of the usual consideration of the application, this will be scrutinised.

“We expect all applications to meet their full policy requirements or clearly demonstrate why this would not be completely achievable so that we can consider the most suitable approach.”

‘It is just another bland block of flats of a kind which Tonbridge already has too many’’ Meanwhile an appeal against a rejected planning application on Medway Wharf Road has been turned down by the government inspector.

The appeal was made by F Estates limited, who applied to build 71 studio flats in an extension to Bank House on what is currently its car park.

It was dismissed by R J Maile because it would result in an ‘overdevelopment…that would be harmful to the character and appearance of the surrounding area’.

Specifically he said it would have had an ‘unneighbourly relationship’ with the adjacent Tannery Trading Estate.

Jon Botten, the Conservative councillor for Medway, said: “We are pleased that the Planning Inspector agreed with the council that more flats in the car park at Bank House would be harmful to the character of the area.

“It shows that this council is willing to only approve development in the right areas.”

F Estates, which converted Bank House originally, also put in an application to build two skyscrapers, with 16 and nine storeys, to house a further 252 apartments. It was thrown out without going in front of a planning committee.

CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 REPORTER ANDY TONG andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com

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30th Carnival brings medley of music and dance THE annual Tonbridge Carnival and Fête on Sunday [June 16] featured a rich variety of music and dance to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

The event, organised by Tonbridge Lions Club, began with a parade of floats, bands, majorettes, dancers and walking groups, many embracing this year’s theme of Flower Power.

The procession also featured classic Minis to mark the car’s 60th birthday.

Then the Mayor of Tonbridge & Malling, Cllr Jill Anderson, and Lions President Tom Simmons presented the prizes to the parade winners.

Stocks Cage Green Primary School won the Walking Juniors prize with Sevington Playgroup second.

For the Walking Adults, Tonbridge Community Services (Aspens) took first prize with Nick Mantell of Sainsbury’s as runner-up.

In the Dancing, Bands and Clubs section, the winners were Bulgarian dance clubs Bulgarka and Pirina with Razzamataz in second place.

On Castle Lawn the crowds were entertained

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk A PUPIL from Hilden Oaks school has reached the finals of BBC Radio 2’s 500 Words short story competition for the second year running.

Gabriela Chimonides followed in the footsteps of Francesca Wade by being chosen as one of 28 finalists in the five to nine years age category.

Across the country there were 112,986 entries.

Gabriela ‘s highly topical story The Great British Marble Run tells the tale of a country divided by squabbling over Brexit but then coming together to construct an extraordinary feat of engineering.

She said: “My story was inspired by my love of

EXTRACT FROM THE GREAT BRITISH MARBLE RUN The people of Britain were squabbling over Brexit and could not come to an agreement.

Eventually Mrs May could bear no more arguments and debates. So, she stood up in parliament and announced, “All the people of Britain must work together as a team. We will build the longest marble run that Europe has ever seen!”

All around parliament there were disapproving mutterings about wasteful use of plastic.

“Order! Order!” cried the speaker, “Our prime minister must be heard!”

“This marble run should be eco-friendly and made of recycled materials,” Mrs May declared.

DELAY REPAY: Continued from page 1

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Tonbridge & Malling MP Tom Tugendhat said: “I am delighted that Southeastern have followed my suggestion to introduce Delay Repay 15 ahead of the new franchise being confirmed.

“This will give passengers well-deserved compensation, as I have repeatedly called for, including in the House of Commons just a couple of weeks ago.”

He added: “This week has shown why Delay Repay 15 is so urgently needed, with train delays causing havoc with journeys.

“It is particularly important in towns like Tonbridge, where journeys average around 45 minutes, so 15-minute delays are more common than half-an-hour delays.

“I’m glad that they have listened and recognise the intense frustration that any delay has on passengers.”

John Reynolds, Chairman of the pressure group Tonbridge Line Commuters, said: “We welcome

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times of Tonbridge we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections.

If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TF, or email newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.

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FLOWER OF TONBRIDGE: Cage Green Primary School pupils with Mayor Jill Anderson and Lions President Tom Simmons

by The Palms Trio, the 17th Tonbridge Scout & Guide Band, Cannon School of Irish Dancing, Showtime Theatre School, Stage Coach Theatre

School and drumming group Bloco Fogo.

Among a plethora of stalls and sideshows, the Soak Your Dad in the Stocks offering was a particular favourite for Father’s Day. All the money raised from the Carnival and Fête will go to local charities and good causes.

Mike Stout of the Lions Club said: “We are extremely pleased with the way the day turned out after setting up in the rain.

“Many participants entered into the spirit of this year’s theme Flower Power and we were particularly pleased to have the Nepalese Dancers and the Bacchus Wind Orchestra taking part this year.

“The response from the crowd indicated that we had achieved another successful carnival day for the enjoyment of the local community.”

Tonbridge Lions Club would like to thank everyone for their support especially Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, West Kent College who were the major sponsor of the event, Cooper Mini who sponsored the Carnival programme, the town’s Round Table, and Tonbridge Air Cadets for their help during the day.

Hilden Oaks produces another wordsmith who discovers a cure for Brexit squabbles

SALES ENQUIRIES GHak@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779650

David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TF

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

building big things and hearing all about Brexit debates every day.

“In my story, the people of Britain work together really well as a team, which stops all the arguments.

“It has a good ending, with everyone in Britain feeling happy to have helped build such an enormous, fantastic marble run.

“Her subject matter reflected the national mood, with Brexit being ‘children’s word of the year’ among all submitted stories, and plastic use also being a burning issue.

Hilden Oaks’ Headmistress Katy Joiner said: “We are extremely proud of Gabriela. What she has achieved is testament to her hard work and wonderfully creative mind, encouraged by our fantastic team of teachers.

“We are amazed and delighted that two of our pupils have reached the final in successive years.”

Francesca won the Bronze prize in the five-tonine section last year for her environmentally minded story about a ‘fatberg’, or build-up of fatty deposits blocking a sewage system.

Agent Ramsbottom and the Mysterious Fish and Chips was a humorous account of a police force staffed by babies enforcing healthy eating upon an obese society.

Mrs Joiner added: “We don’t think credit can be given to any one particular teacher – they are all fantastic.

“We believe our forward thinking curriculum, rich in opportunities, which includes current affairs Newsday Tuesday, is a contributing factor.”

The prep school’s burgeoning literary heritage this good news for Southeastern commuters, who have long deserved a better compensation deal.

“Tonbridge Line Commuters having been pushing for a long time for the Delay Repay threshold to be reduced to 15 minutes.

‘Long overdue improvements will inevitably be put back, resulting in Southeastern passengers having to suffer prolonged misery’ John Reynolds “The reduction to 15 minutes had already been stipulated as a requirement for the next franchise but, because the Department for Transport [DfT] has put off taking decisions, other promised benefits are being held up.”

But he warned there are major problems still to be addressed by Southeastern or its successor.

IN THE RUNNING Gabriela Chimonides with Radio 2’s Zoe Ball may be inspired by E M Forster, who used to live in the house now occupied by Hilden Oaks at 38 Dry Hill Park Road.

This year’s 500 Words final was broadcast live from Windsor Castle on BBC Radio 2’s Zoe Ball Breakfast Show on Friday [June 14].

To read the full story, visit bbc.co.uk and search for ‘500 words’.

“Extra services to increase capacity, faster journey times and replacement of old and unreliable stock are desperately needed for the Tonbridge line and we call for the DfT to make up its mind more quickly.”

“Long overdue improvements will inevitably be put back, resulting in Southeastern passengers having to suffer prolonged misery on ageing – and increasingly unreliable – rolling stock.

Mr Reynolds added: “At the same time, proposed housing developments further down the line will result in trains becoming more overcrowded with no hope of respite for Tonbridge area passengers.

“And there remains the threat of extra Orpington stops on peak hour trains from 2022.

That would mean more overcrowding – and possibly passengers for Tonbridge and beyond not even being able to board trains at Waterloo East or London Bridge.”

Comment, page 22

NEWS IN BRIEF

Tributes paid to former Cranbrook pupils killed TRIBUTES have been paid to two former Cranbrook School pupils who died while on a gap year in Bolivia.

Freddie McLennan and Joe Atkins, both 19, were driving across salt flats in the South American country when their 4x4 crashed earlier this month.

Local police are looking at the possibility that their 22-year-old Bolivian driver, who also died in the incident, was unlicensed.

On Tuesday night, councillors at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council held a minute’s silence, while their former headmaster, Dr John Weeds, said the school was ‘deeply saddened’ to learn of the boy’s deaths and paid tribute on the school website.

Giant hogweed warning A TUNBRIDGE WELLS gardener has warned of the dangers of giant hogweed after he suffered burns when he came into contact with the wild plant.

Oliver Fenton, 25, says he suffered terrible burns to his face and body after sap from the hogweed touched his skin.

“It’s as if you’ve been dancing in stinging nettles or something like that,” he said.

Experts explain that the plant, botanical name Heracleum mantegazzianum, has sap that contains toxins which react with light when it touches skin, making it among ‘the most dangerous plants in Britain’.

Arrest after house fire A TEENAGER has been arrested following a blaze at a bungalow in Tunbridge Wells.

Firefighters say they were called to the house in Bramble Walk at around 4.25pm Tuesday afternoon. An elderly man is believed to have been sleeping at the time but reportedly got out uninjured. A spokesman for Kent Police said the fire started when a wheelie bin was set alight.

He added: “An 18-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident, he is currently in custody.”

50th birthday party THE Sevington Playgroup in River Lawn Road, Tonbridge is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a party on Castle Lawn on Sunday June 30 from 12-2pm.

Former families and staff can go along with a picnic and share their memories.

There will be a bouncy castle, face painting and other entertainment.

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A wild time in the woods

By Eileen Leahy If you went down to the woods last weekend – specifically those at Bedgebury Pinetum – then you would have been one of the 13,000 people who enjoyed a brilliant bill of live music.

There was something for everyone to enjoy over the three day festival of Forest Live gigs which saw indie favourites Foals, club crossover collective Haçienda Classical and the legendary Paul Weller all take to the stage in the picturesque wooded surroundings of Bedgebury Pinetum.

Forest Live concerts have been running every summer for the past 19 years by Forestry Commission England and have seen the likes of Elbow and Paloma Faith perform.

Money raised from ticket sales helps to look after the nation’s forests for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.

Last Friday night saw headliners Foals deliver a magnificent set as the sun went down. Lead singer and guitarist Yannis Philippakis was on top form crowd surfing and belting out ‘bangers’ such as My

Number and Inhaler. New material from Foals’ recent fifth record Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost – Part 1 was also showcased with singles Exits and On the Luna going down a storm with the Friday night crowd.

Brilliant Despite the persistent rain on Saturday, fans of Manchester’s most famous club the Haçienda still flocked to see the city’s 90s dance mecca brought to life by one of its most famous DJs Graeme Park who, along with the Manchester Camerata orchestra and Happy Monday’s iconic dancer Bez and MC Tunes, pumped out a slew of dance favourites. Ride on Time and You Got The Love were just a few of the Haçienda Classical’s infectious set which also saw New Order’s former bassist and Haçienda Classical executive producer Peter Hook performing a brilliant version of his former band’s groundbreaking dance tune Blue Monday.

The final gig of the weekend was Paul Weller - AKA The Mod Father – who performed a string of his

IT’S GREAT OUTDOORS Forest Live performers Paul Weller (above) and Foals (below) at Bedgebury Pinetum

classic solo hits including the appropriately titled Wild Wood while the sun slowly set.

Although his onstage banter with the crowd was minimal, Weller was clearly enjoying himself, belting out tracks while hopping between keyboards and guitar.

PHOTOS: David Jenner & Matt Coates

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Many sonic gems from his Style Council days were given an airing and his former band The Jam’s back catalogue was also plundered with the Mod Father’s rousing rendition of That’s Entertainment perfectly summing up the spirit of Forest Live 2019.

Bid for village green status could stump plans for community centre

By Richard Williams CAMPAIGNERS opposed to the building of a new community centre on a Paddock Wood playing field have applied to have the land adopted as a village green.

Memorial Field is the planned site for the location of the town’s new £2.8million community centre, which has become the subject of strong opposition.

Campaigning group Friends of Memorial Field have been trying to stop the building of the multi-purpose venue since last year, arguing the green space should remain untouched.

They have also raised concerns about noise, lack of car parking spaces, flooding risks and a general lack of consultation.

Earlier this year, a parish poll was commissioned by the town council, which showed overwhelming opposition by the local people to the proposed community centre, but

Paddock Wood Town Council [PWTC] decided to press ahead with moving forward to finalise the planning process.

Now, in a move which the leader of PWTC says she has ‘no doubt’ is aimed at scuppering the plans for the community centre, campaigners have filed an application with Kent County Council [KCC] to change the status of the field to a village green.

Decision “I’ve no doubt why this has been done,” said PWTC Leader Cllr Meryl Flashman. “As yet, we do not know who has filed the application. All we know is that KCC has received it.”

Village Green status can often prevent developments being built on green space, unless they have been approved in advance.

Cllr Flashman admits no planning application for the Memorial Field Community Centre has yet

been submitted, as any such application will be made after the town council meets again to discuss the project in the coming months.

After the Commons Act 2006, which made it easier to register land as a green, it became commonplace for opponents of developments to use request the status to block projects on green space.

But the government introduced significant changes to prevent this in 2013, which has made it much more difficult to create new village greens. The ultimate decision will lie with Kent County Council.

A spokesman for KCC confirmed that they had received an application for turning Memorial Field into a village green. He said: “I can confirm that KCC has received the appropriate forms relating to this application and is now carrying out preliminary checks.”

Nobody was available from the Friends of Memorial Field to comment.

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Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Hospital Trust no longer the worst in the country for cancer waiting times

By Richard Williams THE hospital Trust that runs Tunbridge Wells Hospital has said it is no longer languishing at the bottom of cancer waiting list times.

The news comes after figures released by the BBC showed the Trust was the worst in the country over the previous financial year.

As reported by the Times in April, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust [MTW] dropped to last place in a nationwide list of all NHS trusts when it came to cancer waiting times, ranking 131 out of 131 trusts.

Hospitals are meant to start treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral by a GP in 85 per cent of cases, but MTW saw fewer than 61 per cent between the end of March 2018 and the beginning of April 2019, according to the BBC data.

In total, 94 out of 131 cancer services in England failed to meet the 85 per cent target during 201819 - compared with 36 five years ago.

The Trust, which serves more than half a million people in West Kent, including the residents of Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, said they had experienced a surge in demand, above what other services had seen but had invested in extra staff and hoped to start hitting the target during the summer.

A spokesperson said the Trust was no longer at the bottom of the waiting time league table, having pulled themselves out of the top ten worst performing trusts.

“Since January we have reduced the number of patients who have waited more than 62 days for cancer treatment from 300 to under 100, as of this week,” the spokesman commented last week.

“We don’t want anyone to wait longer than they have to and we undertake additional clinical reviews of these patients to ensure they receive

‘Cancer rates in the region have increased, especially among young people’ appropriate and high standards of care during this period.”

She continued: “In line with national trends, we have seen a large increase in demand with 23 per cent more suspected cancer referrals now than this time last year.”

Cancer rates in the region have increased, especially among young people, which the MTW Trust says could be due to factors such as poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and drinking.

“We have been working hard over the past nine months to respond to this rise and ensure more of our cancer patients are being seen quicker,” added the Trust spokesperson.

She added: “We have made changes to our systems and processes as well as invested in additional staff and facilities to increase the number of patients we see, diagnose and treat.

“As a result, we have made significant improvements and are already in a much better place than the data published today shows.

“We are confident that we will hit the national 62 day wait cancer standard in the summer, in a sustainable way going forwards.”

Cancer charities, however, say long waits for treatment put patients at risk.

Moira Fraser-Pearce, of Macmillan Cancer Support, said it was clear the service was ‘too stretched’.

She added: “The longer people have to wait for diagnosis and get treatment, the longer it will impact them, their health and wellbeing and just getting through that experience.”

Overall, across England, more than 32,000 patients waited longer than 62 days for treatment to start.

NHS England said that despite the large number, cancer survival was at an ‘all time high’.

Training drill puts emergency services to the test A LIVE training exercise was conducted at Tunbridge Wells Hospital to simulate what would happen if an operating theatre caught fire.

The exercise conducted last Wednesday (June 12) included clinical teams and hospital staff working alongside Incident Commanders from South East Coast

Ambulance (SECAmb) Service, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS), Kent Police and the Trust’s own Incident Commanders.

To help make the conditions feel as real as possible, a smoke machine was used and the fire alarms activated in the areas surrounding the theatres.

Actors played the parts of patients and concerned relatives trying to gain information from staff as they tried to deal with the fire and ensure the safety of patients and other staff members.

Sean Briggs, MTW NHS Trust’s Chief Operating Officer, who is also the Board Lead for Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR), said

‘Emergency planning is critical to the Trust as it helps prepare for different emergency situations that may arise at any given time’

that emergency planning was critical to the Trust.

He explained: “It helps us to prepare for different emergency situations that may arise at any given time.

“The benefit of recreating some of those emergency scenarios is that it allows us to test our plans and train our staff on how to manage their colleagues and patients under challenging circumstances whilst also highlighting the importance of working with the other emergency services to ensure a safe outcome for everyone involved.”

Karen Pointer, KFRS Group Manager, added: “This co-ordinated response training allowed us to put crews’ skills to the test and validate that the service can deliver the best possible outcome for those involved in an emergency situation.

We’re extremely pleased with how everyone performed on the day.”

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Trial of drug gang does not mean the town has a cocaine problem

By Richard Williams THE high profile trial of an Albanian gang that sold £4.2million worth of cocaine in Tunbridge Wells in six months is ‘not indicative of a wider problem in the area’.

The District Commander, Chief Inspector Peter Steenhuis said yesterday [Tuesday] that the investigation that led to nine Albanian gang members receiving a combined sentence of more than 60 years was the result of ‘dedicated officers working in specialist roles who

proactively target these criminals’.

He said: “There is simply no place in Kent for people who choose to supply drugs.”

The Chief Inspector continued: “The recent prison sentences handed to nine Albanian gang members involved in the supply of cocaine in Tunbridge Wells, is a testament to the continuing effectiveness of these investigations and not indicative of a wider problem in the area.

“These offenders were part of a well-organised crime group, something that is not common in our area, and their successful prosecution shows

we have the resources and ability to target them and bring them to justice.

“My officers are committed to ensuring the town remains a safe place to live and work, and I would encourage anyone with concerns about drug dealing in their community to contact us on 101 or via the Kent Police website.”

The gang behind the multi-million pound cocaine ring used a single mobile phone to organise the supply of cocaine to users in Tunbridge Wells, from Surrey Quays in London.

Drug users ordering bags of cocaine would call

‘These offenders were part of a well-organised crime group, something that is not common in our area ’

STASH: Some of the drug and cash haul recovered by officers following the arrest of the ten Albanian gang members. It is believed ‘Freddy’ was the nickname of one of the men involved

the phone in London, while dealers in rented accommodation in Tunbridge Wells were called by the organisers and sent to the customer’s location.

Between May and October, 2018, it is estimated more than £4million of the drug was ordered and delivered to the people living in Tunbridge Wells.

Police say the drug ring was finally brought to book when they discovered that the Londonbased phone was topped up using vouchers bought at shops in Tunbridge Wells.

Detectives were then able to identify other members of the gang because they had purchased credit vouchers for the phone.

When officers swooped to arrest the gang members at various addresses across the South

BUNDLES Police recovered more than £20,000 worth of cash East, they found the mobile phones, more than £20,000 of cash as well as several quantities of cocaine.

Analysis of text messages on the seized mobile phones proved all those arrested were part of the same organised crime gang dealing Class A drugs in Kent, and they were all charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine.

In total ten men were convicted for supplying the Class-A substance to users in Tunbridge Wells, but one of the ten men received a suspended sentence.

Organiser of the supply network, Nelson Aliaj, 28, received 15 years in jail, while his ‘lieutenant’, Ervis Dervishi, 21, was sentenced to more than six years.

Seven other men received sentences between three and seven years.

JAILED: Ring leader Nelson Aliaj [left] was jailed for 15 years last week, while his ‘lieutenant’ Ervis Dervishi [right] received six years and nine months

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Revenues at Thomson Snell & Passmore up

New President chosen for Insurance Institute

LEGAL MOVE Senior Partner James Partridge

REPRIEVE: Topshop in RVP is safe thanks to the Arcadia Group deal

ONE of the South East’s leading law firms, Thomson Snell & Passmore, has announced a 5.9 per cent increase in fee revenue from the previous year.

The firm reported revenues from fees of £21.96million for the financial year ending June 5, 2019. The company says this strong financial result marks consistent growth for the law firm in a competitive legal market.

With its 450th anniversary approaching next year, the firm is currently planning for an upcoming office move from Lonsdale Gardens.

The new Vale Road location consists of a newly refurbished 28,000 sq ft, five-floor, open-plan office which will house all of the firm’s Tunbridge Wells staff.

Senior Partner James Partridge said: “Our new office in Tunbridge Wells is an example of how we, as a firm, want to build on our achievements to date.

“The move reinforces the firm’s heritage in Kent, where we continue to thrive and provide excellent service to our clients.”

On the latest figures, he added: “Our latest financial results cap what has been a significant year for Thomson Snell & Passmore.”

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Topshop in RVP saved by a last-minute deal

By Richard Williams TOPSHOP in Royal Victoria Place [RVP] faced closure last week as the group that owns the chain was on the brink of collapse.

Arcadia Group, run by controversial businessman Sir Philip Green, was saved at the 11th hour by a rescue deal that prevented it from falling into administration and putting 18,000 jobs at risk.

Landlords of Arcadia Group’s 570 UK standalone stores, which also include Dorothy Perkins, Topman, Wallis, Evans, Outfit and Miss Selfridge, approved a plan that will now see just 48 stores closing, putting around 1,000 people out of work, with rents slashed for the remaining outlets.

Topshop in RVP, which has its main storefront in the Calverley Road precinct, has not been earmarked for closure.

Under the terms of the deal, seven Company Voluntary Arrangements [CVAs] have been agreed by British Land, which owns RVP, and the other main landlords.

Sir Philip Green, who is currently facing allegations of sexual misconduct in the US, has had to promise to give landlords a 20 per cent stake in the business.

In addition, he has also had to invest an extra £50million in the stores as part of a £135million plan to help the group compete with rivals such as Asos, Zara and H&M. In return, landlords have agreed to reduce rents by up to 50 per cent.

The Arcadia Group launched the CVA process last month as it said it faced ‘significant financial difficulties’.

It had warned that if the deals were not approved then the company was ‘highly likely, either immediately or after a short time period, to enter into insolvent administration or liquidation’, which could have seen the closure of all its stores’.

As it stands, around 25 UK branches will close, including Miss Selfridge in Bluewater, as will 11 US Topshop stores and several of the group’s outlets in Ireland.

THE Insurance Institute of Royal Tunbridge Wells [IIRTW] has a new president.

Francesca Dulley takes over from Brian Bissell at the professional insurance body, which provides training, development, social and networking opportunities for individuals and firms within the local insurance and financial services community.

The IIRTW has around 900 members in the area and celebrates its 70th anniversary next year.

Ms Dulley has been in the insurance industry since 2010, when she joined AXA as one of their first Notification of Loss advisors. She subsequently pursued an underwriting career with Evolution Underwriting specialising in commercial insurance.

Outgoing President Brian Bissell said: “I would like to wish Francesca every success and good luck in her presidential year and to enjoy the experience, especially as she will be President when the local institute celebrates its 70th anniversary.

“I enjoyed my year and the opportunities and challenges which came with the office.”

IN WITH THE NEW: Ms Dulley with Brian Bissell

8

BUSINESS

Local News

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Women tell MP how they are making business their own

By Richard Williams A GROUP of Tunbridge Wells’ female entrepreneurs have told MP Greg Clark of the challenges women face in business, and how they overcame them, at the launch of a new networking event.

The local MP and Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy was at the launch of the Tunbridge Wells branch of the national, not-forprofit initiative Make It Your Business [MIYB], which aims to encourage more women to start their own companies.

Statistics show that around £180billion of extra revenue could be generated in the UK by 2025 if as many women ran their own businesses as men.

And while figures show two million women are currently thinking of starting their own business, more than a quarter say they don’t because they lack networking opportunities and confidence.

Launching the inaugural event at the Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells on June 7, the founder of Make It Your Business, entrepreneur, writer and broadcaster Alison Cork, told Mr Clark of the importance of networking for female entrepreneurs, who make up just 20 per cent of small business start-ups.

She commented: “The challenges facing women in business aren’t insurmountable. We can create this support network to help them succeed – and we know women are great at building networks.”

Several successful businesswomen told the MP and audience of female start-ups, business owners and those thinking of setting up their own company how they got started.

Deborah Richards, who left a successful career in banking to set up Maddisons Residential estate agents in 2012, explained how daunting it was to set up in real estate, where existing firms were ‘all headed by men and very traditional’.

“You’ve got to believe in what you want to do,” said Ms Richards, whose company now turns over £2million a year.

“I knew what I didn’t want to be as an estate agent. All the competitors are doing their thing, but you have to ignore it. It’s just noise. You have to switch it off and follow what you want to do.”

The audience also heard from Emily Brown, who launched Emily Brown Photography straight out of university.

DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES Local female entrepreneurs at the MIYB event

She emphasised the importance of networking, saying: “When I started, I put out 6,000 leaflets, and only got one phone call from it, which was for an invitation to a networking group. That now brings in 80 per cent of my work.”

Successful florist Sharon Wood, who runs the Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal-winning Colonnade Florist, told the attendees that she decided to set up on her own because she thought she knew more than the boss.

‘The challenges facing women in business aren’t insurmountable.

We can create this support network to help them succeed’ “But I hadn’t appreciated the amount of backroom stuff,” she admitted.

“Working with people who are good at that stuff has been key.

“Always get a business coach and mentor – you have to play to people’s strength and weaknesses.”

Finally, Victoria Usher, CEO & founder of GingerMay, one of the fastest-growing PR agencies in the UK and Europe, explained how she felt like an ‘accidental business owner’ and an ‘imposter’ when she first started.

She said: “I’d think everyone in the room was more qualified than me and

that I didn’t deserve to be there.

“They teach in schools nowadays that the word fail just means the First Attempt At Learning.

“You have to learn from your mistakes and think what you might do differently, but failure is a gift,” continued Victoria, whose award-winning PR company now employs 45 people.”

After the event, Business Minister Mr Clark explained how UK entrepreneurship was ‘under-represented’ by women.

He said: “Although things are moving in the right direction, there is more to be done, and events like Make It Your Business play a positive role in achieving this.

“Today’s panellists were incredibly inspiring, and it was a privilege to meet them and listen to their stories.”

Make It Your Business runs seminars across the country, providing opportunities for women to meet established local female entrepreneurs, learn from their experiences, and network with other local aspiring female entrepreneurs in a relaxed environment.

The next Make It Your Business event in Tunbridge Wells will be held next January.

Tickets, which cost £10 + VAT, guarantee lifetime membership to Make It Your Business, with a monthly newsletter full of business advice and tips, mentoring opportunities and networking socials.

More information on future events is available by emailing: communications@sharpminds.agency

SUCCESSFUL LINE-UP: [L-R] Victoria Usher, Sharon Wood, Siobhan Stirling, Greg Clark, Alison Cork, Deborah Richards, Emily Wood

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

10

NEWS

Local News

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Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Commuter ‘assaulted’ and sworn at by ticket officer after asking for first aid

PHOTO: Craig Matthews

ON YOUR BIKE Cyclist Tibi Moracvik refused to leave the station because he was bleeding

would begin filming the incident, but claimed this did little to calm the ticketing officer.

“I refused to leave the station because I was A COMMUTER was yelled and sworn at after bleeding so he assaulted me by pushing me out asking for a first aid kit at a Tunbridge Wells and swore again,” claimed Mr Moracvik. railway station.

Indeed, the video, which he posted to his Tibi Moracvik, 45, was on his way to London Facebook page, shows the when he fell off his bike Southeastern worker just outside High Brooms clearly shoving the injured station, so asked the commuter out of the ticketing officer if he had a station while swearing. first aid kit.

Mr Moracvik, who takes He explained: “I was the train from High bleeding, so I went in, Brooms to London at least asked for a ticket to London once every week, went on but said ‘do you have a first to say: “I have no idea why aid kit?’” he reacted like this. I was Mr Moracvik, who works polite throughout and just as both a massage therapist wanted help. I know and a doorman was told by sometimes they can be the Southeastern employee grumpy, but this was that the station did not completely uncalled for.” have a first aid kit on site.

He concluded: “It was “But I said ‘surely you ‘GRUMPY’ ridiculous.

There was a must have—isn’t it a legal The ticket officer who was requirement?’ but the man recorded swearing at Mr Moracvik defibrillator on the wall, so I’m sure they had a first said ‘no’,” added Mr aid kit. I just do not know Moracvik, who lives and ‘I’m sure they had a first aid why he would not help me. works in Tunbridge Wells. kit. I just do not know why It is just common decency.”

He continued: “The man Following the incident he said to me, ‘go to hospital if he would not help me’ says he complained to the you are hurt—why should I British Transport Police, help you?’ And I replied, who said they were investigating. ‘because you are a human being’.”

Southeastern said that while they cannot He says this was when things turned nasty. comment on staff matters they were “He swore at me, and then started calling me ‘investigating the incident as a matter an idiot,” he explained. of urgency’.

As things progressed, Mr Moracvik decided he

By Richard Williams

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Aldi agree a 20-year lease on Tunbridge Wells store

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NEWS

11

Fabian Society criticised after ‘anti-semitic’ peer is invited to local branch

FOR SALE Tunbridge Wells’ police station

GERMAN supermarket chain Aldi has agreed a 20-year lease on their new Tunbridge Wells outlet, which is planned for a November launch.

As revealed by the Times in April, the budget grocer is opening a new store on the site of the former Toys R Us superstore at the Great Lodge Retail Park in Longfield Road.

The company had been looking for a location in Tunbridge Wells for some time, with plans to open a branch off Eridge Road, near to supermarket rival Sainsbury’s, but this was scuppered by planning issues.

AN INDEPENDENT but affiliated branch of one of the UK’s oldest left-wing political think tanks has been criticised after the group hosted the peer Baroness Jenny Tonge earlier this year.

The Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Fabians invited the former peer to speak in March.

Baroness Tonge resigned from the Liberal Democrats in 2016 after she was suspended over alleged anti-semitic comments.

Israel

Optimal It finally settled on the Longfield Road site and details of the deal have just emerged.

Brokered by Commercial Property REIT (UKCM), which is managed and advised by Aberdeen Standard Investments, the supermarket chain agreed a 20-year lease on the space formerly occupied by Toys R Us, demonstrating a longterm commitment to Tunbridge Wells.

The 27,000 sq ft former toy outlet is a partsurrender of B&Q’s lease at Great Lodge Retail Park, who have re-let the space to Aldi on a long index-linked lease. B&Q will continue to occupy the remaining 80,400 sq ft with nine years remaining under the existing rental terms.

UKCM say the letting increases the diversity of income from the Park, whilst ensuring that B&Q has an optimal unit for its space requirements.

Will Fulton, Lead Manager of UKCM at Aberdeen Standard Investments, said: “This letting demonstrates the demand for well-located retail space and is a major achievement for Great Lodge Retail Park following the departure of Toys R Us. “Aldi is a great brand and a high quality tenant that will further diversify income, extend the secure lease term, and reinvigorate the asset with a benefit to all our tenants with an expected boost to footfall.”

Local News

Council bids for police station

By Richard Williams THE COUNCIL have put in a bid for Tunbridge Wells police station, which has been put up for sale after the town’s policing presence was moved to Tonbridge last year.

As revealed in the Times last month, Kent Police and Crime Commissioner [PCC] Matthew Scott is selling off the unused police station as part of a money saving exercise and is now welcoming offers.

His office has confirmed that Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] has been offered ‘first refusal’ on the sale.

The 1930s art deco building on Crescent Road sits next to the Council-owned Assembly Hall Theatre.

If the Council’s offer is accepted or Mr Scott

sells the building to another party, it will leave the town without a police station for the first time in its history since 1864.

Kent’s PCC recently put up the police precept part of council tax from £169.15 for a Band D property to £193.15, adding an extra £1million to the council tax bills of Tunbridge Wells’ residents.

At the time Mr Scott said the rise was going to be used to fund 180 new rank and file officers, but he admitted that efficiency savings had to be made.

While it is not clear how much the Council has offered for the building, it is thought to be below market value.

A spokesperson for TWBC did not deny that the council had put in an offer for the police station, but refused to comment further.

She had said the blame for the mass shooting in Pittsburgh, in which a gunman murdered eleven members of a synagogue and injured seven others, lay with Israeli foreign policy, which she claimed caused a rise in anti-semitism that ultimately led to the killings.

She also hosted a House of Lords meeting at which Israel was compared to the Islamic State.

Euan Philipps, spokesperson for Labour Against Antisemitism, said that the baroness should not be given ‘any kind of platform’.

He told the Times: “Baroness Tonge has no place in any organisation committed to antiracism considering her well-reported history of reportedly anti-semitic comments.”

The UK Fabian Society said they were investigating the Tunbridge Wells branch, which has yet to comment on the invitation, but added that ‘the UK Fabian Society abhors anti-semitism and will never knowingly platform anti-semitic Baroness speakers.’

Jenny Tonge

12

NEWS

Community News

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Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Put the kettle on and help NHS charities THE Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust [MTW] is calling on schools, businesses and individuals to host a tea party in order to raise vital funds for Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

The NHS Big Tea, which runs from June 24 to July 7, wants people to come together to help support the work of MTW’s Charitable Fund while celebrating the Health Service’s 71st birthday on July 5.

Proceeds go towards enhancing the standard of care, services and facilities provided by the Trust to patients, relatives, visitors and staff.

LEADING ROLE: MP Greg Clark with volunteers at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, including Archie the Westie

Hospital celebrates its two hundred helpers in National Volunteer Week TO MARK National Volunteer Week from June 1-7, local MP Greg Clark paid a visit to Tunbridge Wells Hospital to meet a variety of people – and a dog – who give up their time to help patients feel comfortable.

They included volunteer receptionists, ward companions, radio staff and Archie the West Highland terrier, whose owner Susan works with the charity Pets as Therapy.

More than 200 local people help the hospital on a voluntary basis.

Mr Clark also visited the volunteers, staff and patients of Ward 20, which specialists in rehabilitation for older people.

He said: “Volunteers play a vital, if sometimes overlooked, role in our hospitals and the NHS as a whole.

“Although their dedication deserves recognition all year round, I am glad to have the opportunity to thank them myself during National Volunteer Week for their outstanding commitment and hard work.”

‘The humble cup of tea has a long and proud association with the NHS. It breaks down social boundaries’

HARD-EARNED BREAK Nikki Lewis, MTW Practice Development Nurse for medicine and emergency care, enjoys a cuppa

Laura Kennedy, Fundraising Manager for the Charitable Fund, said: “The humble cup of tea has a long and proud association with the NHS. “Originally served to patients in traditional fine cups with saucers and side spoon, tea was considered an important aspect of patient satisfaction and recovery.

“Tea brings us all together. It breaks down social boundaries and, like the NHS and NHS charities, it is a symbol of comfort and community.”

She added: “With that in mind, we couldn’t think of a better way for people living in Tunbridge Wells to toast our wonderful health service and staff, while raising funds for the NHS.” There are more than 250 NHS charities across the UK. Most of them focus on helping hospi-

tals to achieve more, while others support trusts involved in areas such as mental health, community health and ambulance services.

NHS charities have also funded major capital projects and pioneering research as well as medical equipment.

They play a key role in recruiting volunteers to support NHS staff, brightening wards and waiting areas with colourful and engaging art, and building an important link between hospitals and local communities.

To receive your free NHS Big Tea fundraising pack, call 01622 226428 or email: laura.kennedy8@nhs.net For more information about the NHS Big Tea, visit nhsbigtea.org.uk

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Community News

NEWS

13

Surprise tribute to D-Day veteran as he pays a visit to his wife in hospital

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk A BRITISH ARMY Major made a special visit to Tunbridge Wells Hospital on the 75th anniversary of D-Day to personally thank a veteran for his service in that campaign.

Frank Mordecai was visiting his poorly wife on one of the wards on June 6 when Major Simon Dean, OBE, arrived and presented him with a small token of appreciation from the Chairman of Kent County Council.

The 95 year old served in the Royal Navy aboard HMS Glenearn from 1942 to 1944 as a Convoy Escort.

On June 6, 1944, aged 20, Frank was serving as a Wireman aboard a Landing Craft Assault which was taking troops to land on Sword Beach in Normandy.

While talking to Major Dean and ward staff, Frank recalled the ramp of the craft jamming and him having to jump into the icy cold water up to his knees to help fix it.

He recalled wondering how the troops, who were up to their chests in the sea, were feeling.

After D-Day, Frank went on to serve in Asia, Japan and the Philippines, celebrating VJ-Day on board with a beer.

He joked about what he called his ‘crime’: He used to distribute rum rations to the American troops but, because they disliked the watereddown spirit, a lot of it went unused.

‘I said how lovely it would be if they could get a message to Frank. It was a touching gesture, and one which I know meant a lot to him’ It was supposed to be thrown overboard but, not wanting to see it go to waste, Frank took it back to his cabin where he and two colleagues ‘got sloshed’.

They were reprimanded for committing a criminal act, but after three days in the ship’s infirmary the captain felt they had been punished enough.

He confined them on board for two weeks but, as Frank pointed out, they were in the middle of the ocean anyway.

The visit was arranged after Judy Durrant, Deputy Chief Nurse for Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, attended a Kent County Council meeting.

There she heard of an event organised by the council for veterans who received France’s highest award, the Légion d’honneur.

Judy said: “I stopped and spoke to the organisers and mentioned how I’d had the pleasure of meeting a D-Day veteran earlier that day due to his wife being a patient on one of the wards at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, and said how lovely it would be if they could get a message to him.

“But KCC’s Civic Office team went one step further by approaching Major Simon Dean and asking him if he would visit Frank in person the following day and present him with a gift on behalf of the Chairman of Kent County Council, Mrs Ann Allen, MBE – a request that he kindly agreed to.

“It was a touching gesture, and one which I know meant a lot to Frank.”

Free Tai Chi and Pilates for over-55s FREE taster sessions for Tai Chi and Pilates are being held for local people aged 55 and over as part of the Royal Voluntary Service [RVS] First Time for Everything programme.

The projects, run in association with Prudential, are designed to give older people an opportunity to try something new in their local community.

Staying active and social have been proven to be important to keeping fit and well in older age.

Tai Chi is a low impact, slow-motion exercise that is good for posture, balance, core strength, coordination, relaxation and flexibility.

The class was led by Theresa Draper, a teacher from Telisa Tai Chi, at Camden Court in Pembury.

According to the NHS, Pilates aims to strengthen the body with an emphasis on core strength to improve general fitness and well-being.

Samantha Stevenson instructed the class, which was held at Harmer Court in Southborough.

The RVS found that two thirds of people aged 60 and over wanted to try a new activity, but 29 per cent felt there weren’t enough local opportunities.

Rose Ellison, RVS activity co-ordinator for Kent, said: “Attendees were interested to see what Tai Chi was. They enjoyed the morning and watching the trainer – one said ‘it’s like watching ballet’.

“Thanks to funding from Prudential, we have

SHAPING UP Theresa Draper demonstrates Tai Chi at Camden Court lots more exciting events coming up and hope that even more older people, their carers and families will come along. It’s never too late to try something for the first time.”

The two latest projects come after a yoga class was started in Paddock Wood by volunteer Penny Wang in March.

Rose added: “For anyone with a few hours to spare, volunteering is a great way to get involved

in the local community. Our volunteers are a wonderful bunch of people – many are aged 60 and over – and they really enjoy the buzz they get from helping others.”

For more information about the programme, contact Rose Ellison on 07876 484004 or email rosemary.ellison@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk To find out more about volunteering visit royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/volunteer

APPRECIATION Frank Mordecai with Major Simon Dean

Galapagos walk around Bewl Water in support of British Heart Foundation THE annual Bewl Water Walk organised by a team at a country pub in Cousley Wood raised £1,000 for the British Heart Foundation [BHF].

The 12-mile trek around the reservoir is organised by the Galapagos restaurant at the Old Vine.

Kate Edom, the restaurant’s director, said: “We are very pleased to support the British Heart Foundation as our chosen charity for this year.

“It is a personal cause for me, and the ninth year I have personally taken part.

“As well as it being great exercise, the walk meant we could raise vital funds for cardiovascular research that benefits everyone.”

She added: “This year’s event started and finished at the pub, and with over 25 participants we are delighted to have raised £1,000.

“I know that the money will go towards helping the thousands of people who suffer with heart disease every year.”

Kim Brophy, BHF’s Fundraising Manager, said: “We are really grateful to Kate and the Galapagos team for hosting the walk.

“It was a fantastic social event, raising a great amount and ending in a fabulous meal – a perfect part of a Bank Holiday weekend.”

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

NOTORIETY Paul Crowther leaves court

Milkshake man fined for ‘crass stupidity’ A MAN who threw a milkshake over Nigel Farage has been fined and ordered to pay the Brexit Party leader compensation following the ‘act of crass stupidity’.

District Judge Bernard Begley said Paul Crowther had been ‘motivated by political views’ and ‘some desire to gain some attention and notoriety’.

At North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court he ordered him to pay Mr Farage £350 in compensation as well as £170 in costs, and carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.

Consequences He said CCTV showed that Crowther found it funny and it happened during a busy lunchtime in full view of the media and public.

He added: “I am told you have lost your job [working for Sky] as a result and threats of one form or another have been directed to your family.

“Perhaps you should have thought about that possibility before you acted as you did, if not for yourself then for your family. Actions have consequences.”

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National News

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15

Raab knocked out of race in another big win for Johnson

It’s Brexit and bust, says survey of Tories – and farewell to UK

BORIS JOHNSON has confirmed his status as the favourite to be the next Prime Minister with a commanding victory in the second round of voting in the Tory leadership race.

Former Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab was eliminated from the race, while Home Secretary Sajid Javid survived by a single vote.

But there was another overwhelming victory for Mr Johnson, who secured 126 votes – 80 ahead of his nearest rival, Jeremy Hunt on 46.

Michael Gove was in third place on 41 votes, while Rory Stewart was on 37.

Candidates needed 33 votes to remain in the race – the exact number picked up by Mr Javid.

CONSERVATIVE Party members would be prepared to sacrifice the union, destroy their party or suffer economic damage to get the UK out of the European Union, a poll has suggested.

The YouGov survey of party members – who will decide the next party leader and therefore Prime Minister – suggests that almost half [46 per cent] would be happy to see the Brexit Party’s Nigel Farage as the leader.

Sixty-one per cent want Brexit to take place even if it caused ‘significant damage’ to the economy.

Only 39 per cent of respondents would want Brexit to take place if it meant Labour leader Mr Corbyn becoming the next prime minister, with 51 per cent saying they would rather the UK did not leave the EU in order to avoid that happening.

NOT TELLING Rory Stewart said if someone asked whether he was a spy, he would say no

‘I would love to go against Boris in order to give members the chance to choose whether they want Boris’s Brexit or mine’ Mr Raab’s hopes of replacing Theresa May in Downing Street were dashed after he secured just 30 votes.

The remaining candidates now face further votes by their fellow MPs today [Wednesday] and tomorrow, which will whittle the field down to a final two.

With Mr Johnson appearing certain of a place in the showdown, the contest has become a battle between the remaining five for a spot alongside him in the ballot of 160,000 Conservative party members who will choose the next party leader and Prime Minister.

Mr Stewart told BBC Radio 4 he has said he has ‘no problem’ being the ‘stop Boris’ candidate.

“I have no problem with that and I would love to go against him in the final two in order to give

Destroyed

members the chance to choose whether they want Boris’s Brexit or mine,” he told the Today programme.

The International Development Secretary also faced questions about his back story, amid reports that he allegedly worked as a spy.

Asked if former spies could, under the law, answer honestly whether they had ever worked for MI6, Mr Stewart said: “No, and in fact the law wouldn’t allow newspapers to reveal the identity of intelligence officers.

“I definitely would say I served my country and if somebody asked me whether I am a spy, I would say no.”

The survey found that 63 per cent of members would be prepared to see Brexit take place even if it meant Scotland leaving the UK. And 59 per cent would prioritise leaving the EU even if it meant Northern Ireland breaking away from the rest of the UK. More than half, 54 per cent, would accept the Conservative party being ‘destroyed’ in order to secure Brexit.

The survey also found 26 per cent would be happy to see Scotland leave the UK – and 20 per cent in the case of Northern Ireland – regardless of the Brexit issue.

YouGov’s Matthew Smith said: “Conservative members are not just ideologically committed to Brexit, they also genuinely believe that the failure to deliver on the result of the 2016 referendum will bring about the destruction of the party’s electoral chances.”

YouGov surveyed 892 Conservative Party members on June 11-14.

16

NEWS

National News

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Ex-BHS owner in court over yacht allegations FORMER BHS owner Dominic Chappell has appeared at the City of London Magistrates Court to face charges of a £500,000 tax fraud and allegedly buying two yachts to launder money.

Mr Chappell, 52, faces three charges of cheating the public revenue and two counts of money laundering in concealing, disguising, converting, transferring or removing criminal property relating to his bankrupt finance company Swiss Rock Limited.

The money-laundering claims relate to funds from the company being used to buy two yachts.

According to the charges, the first vessel, called Maverick 5, was bought for £182,500 in April 2015, just a month after the acquisition of BHS. Another £230,000 was allegedly used to buy a second yacht called Maverick 6 five months later.

Mr Chappell bought BHS from retail tycoon Sir Philip Green for £1, just over a year before it collapsed, causing the loss of 11,000 jobs.

Instagram boss: We can’t stop people being mean THE head of Instagram has said the social media platform cannot tackle the issue of bullying alone.

The Facebook-owned app has been under the spotlight over cyberbullying and images of self-harm across its network.

Adam Mosseri told BBC Radio 1’s Newsbeat that bullying is broader than its platform but admitted that public criticism the company receives is ‘healthy’ in order to tackle the issue.

“We definitely think about what Instagram might be like for the average man or woman,” he said.

“We don’t want people getting depressed on our platform but we can’t stop people from saying mean or nasty things sometimes so it’s a balance.

“Generally, we’re trying to figure out how to do more to nurture the positive uses.”

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

NEWS IN BRIEF

M25 under runway for Heathrow masterplan RIVERS and roads could be re-routed under a ‘masterplan’ to expand Heathrow Airport.

The 12-lane M25 would be realigned in a tunnel under a newly constructed runway within the next decade as part of the first phase of expansion.

A four-phase plan was released at the start of a 12-week public consultation on the proposals.

These include the completion of the third runway by around 2026.

Kyle turns down MPs TAKE THE REIGNS: The Queen arrives for the opening day of the Royal Ascot race meeting with the Duke of York, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and his wife Queen Maxima

FCA will investigate Woodford as Fidelity blocks second fund A FORMAL investigation has been launched by the City watchdog into Neil Woodford’s suspended equity income fund in the latest blow for the underpressure investment guru.

The Financial Conduct Authority [FCA] has previously said it would launch a formal investigation if it ‘believes there are circumstances suggesting serious misconduct or noncompliance with the rules’.

The probe is understood to be related to Guernsey-listed

assets. There were concerns the suspension was made to sidestep rules limiting the proportion of illiquid assets in the fund – those that are hard to trade, sell or value – to 10 per cent.

Precautionary The FCA revealed that at one stage the equity income fund had around 20 per cent invested in illiquid assets.

FCA chief executive Andrew Bailey said the regulator had

made contact with the fund’s authorised manager, Link Fund Solutions, relating to two breaches of the 10 per cent limit.

Confirmation of the probe comes after Fidelity Personal Investing blocked customers from putting cash into a second Woodford fund.

Fidelity said it was restricting new investments into the LF Woodford Income Focus Fund as a ‘temporary and precautionary measure’, although withdrawals are not affected.

JEREMY KYLE has turned down a request to appear before MPs investigating reality TV. ITV axed The Jeremy Kyle Show last month following the death of participant Steve Dymond. The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee then launched an inquiry into reality TV. Senior executives involved in the show will appear in front of MPs next week, but the star’s representatives told the committee he would not give evidence.

Troy comes to town THE British Museum has announced the first major exhibition about Troy in the UK. Troy: Myth And Reality will feature finds from archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann’s excavations at the site in the 1870s.

The exhibition in London ‘will tell the stories of Troy that have fascinated and inspired people for more than 3,000 years’.

A large number of Schliemann’s finds, including pottery and silver vessels, bronze weapons and stone sculptures, will go on show, loaned by the Berlin Museum.

18

BUSINESS

National News

Facebook set to launch cryptocurrency in 2020 FACEBOOK is to launch a cryptocurrency next year - backed by the likes of Mastercard, Visa and PayPal - which will allow people to move money from their smartphone.

The currency is known as Libra, which the social network says it has ‘no special role’ in governing and will manage the reserve equally with a group of big companies.

So far, it has enlisted 28 firms, including Spotify and Uber, who each had to invest a minimum of $10million [£8 million] to be a founding member of the Libra Association, an independent not-forprofit membership organisation.

It wants to attract 100 businesses in time for the launch – it is aiming for the first half of 2020.

Facebook will operate its own digital wallet for people to spend Libra, known as the Calibra Wallet, which will be available in WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and as a standalone app.

Sotheby’s sold for £3bn to media mogul Drahi AUCTION house Sotheby’s has announced it has signed an agreement to be purchased by FrenchIsraeli media mogul Patrick Drahi for £2.95billion.

The deal will see the 275-year-old Londonfounded company become a private entity after 31 years trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

“After more than 30 years as a public company, the time is right for Sotheby’s to return to private ownership to continue on a path of growth and success,” board chairman Domenico De Sole said.

Mr Drahi is the founder and controlling shareholder of French telecommunications firm Altice as well as companies in Israel, Portugal and the United States.

He said he was ‘honoured’ that Sotheby’s had recommended his offer, calling it ‘one of the most elegant and aspirational brands in the world’.

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Gatwick adds 1m passengers with Far East long-haul boost

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

NEWS IN BRIEF

New house builds rise to highest in nine years THE number of new house builds started has increased to a nine-year high, according to figures from Homes England.

In the 12 months from April 1 2018, there were 45,692 houses started on site under programmes managed by Homes England.

And 40,289 houses across England were completed – the highest for four years.

Two-thirds [67 per cent] or 30,563 of the starts on site were for affordable homes – a 10 per cent increase on the previous year.

TAKING OFF Long haul passengers are up 14.3 per cent

Solid growth at Ashtead GATWICK Airport has reported a 7.3 per cent hike in annual earnings as it saw rising long-haul demand boost passenger numbers.

Britain’s second biggest airport posted underlying earnings of £441.4million for the year to March 31.

It added 1.1million long-haul passengers, up 14.3 per cent on the previous year, helping overall passenger numbers swell to 46.4million.

Quieter It also stressed its so-called noise footprint was cut by 7 per cent over the year thanks to better operational procedures and quieter aircraft.

London Gatwick said the long-haul growth was driven by increased Far East connections, which jumped 45 per cent higher year-on-year.

One in five airport passengers now travel long haul to and from Gatwick – in which French construction and transport concession group Vinci recently bought a majority stake.

It also saw average income from each

passenger increase 4.5 per cent to £17.47, with total revenues lifting 6.1 per cent to £810.8million for the year.

And £249.3million of capital investment was made on improving passenger facilities and operational performance, as part of a £1.1 billion five-year spending programme to 2023.

Stewart Wingate, chief executive of Gatwick Airport, said: “Over the last year, we have achieved strong passenger growth matched by a reduction in our local noise footprint; robust financial results matched by record levels of investment back into the airport; and growing global connections fuelling increased trade and tourism opportunities.”

He added the group will unveil its ‘master plan’ later this year, setting out long-term growth and developments for the airport.

The figures come after Vinci last month completed its deal to buy a 50.01 per cent stake in Gatwick for £2.9billion.

Vinci is now the second largest airport operator, running 45 airports in 12 countries.

EQUIPMENT rental firm Ashtead Group has reported another quarter of solid growth, putting its annual profits and revenue well ahead of last year.

The FTSE 100 company said it had seen revenue rise 17 per cent in the three months to April 30, coming in at £1.1billion.

It rounded off a year of growth for Ashtead, with revenue for the full year 19 per cent higher at £4.5 billion. Pre-tax profits jumped 20 per cent to £1.06 billion.

Cardiff Kingsmill shuts AROUND 180 jobs are at risk at Allied Bakeries after the Kingsmill bread-maker revealed that it plans to stop production in Cardiff.

The group is set to halt bakery production at the Maes-y-Coed Road site, which has 360 staff, as part of a review of its operations after it lost a major own-label contract earlier this year.

Allied Bakeries said it will shift baking to other UK facilities but plans to keep running its transport logistics depot from Cardiff.

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NEWS

Letters

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG Stolen flowers? Tunbridge Wells Inner Wheel Club will not be moved

For many years, we at Tunbridge Wells Inner Wheel Club have planted up the Horse Trough on the corner of Lansdowne Road.

We do this as part of our work in the community, and to assist with the Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom competition.

Last week we planted it with geraniums and petunias, but sadly they have now all been taken out.

We find it hard to believe that anyone could have stooped so low as to have stolen these plants.

If they were taken out as an act of vandalism, then we find it equally contemptible.

However, we will not let the actions of one or two people spoil the enjoyment for others and will replant it again.

Christine Davies Secretary, The Inner Wheel Club of Tunbridge Wells PEAKS AND TROUGHS The club plants the stone feature every year

Realism ahead of personal interest

The message has been delivered

Clearly my comments relating to populism establishing itself in Tunbridge Wells have touched a nerve with some of your readers [June 5].

Ian Metcalfe falls into the classic trap of thinking anyone with a different view from his must by definition be part of the liberal elite.

The fact that I believe populism’s black and white views and uncompromising stance leads to a polarised society does not, in my mind, make me elitist. If anything, I consider myself a realist.

Separately, Cllr Nick Pope refers me to an earlier edition’s letter from Cllr Reilly. Perhaps the motivation for Cllr Reilly’s comments was the anxiety of reprisal for being seen to support the Civic Centre project and the fear of losing his seat in future elections.

The Tunbridge Wells Alliance ran a successful campaign despite having no policies (by their own admission) and having a fondness for misinformation.

Voting for them was clearly a protest against the Civic Centre premised on appeasing the disaffected in Park ward.

What residents need is a united and forwardthinking council working together for the future wellbeing of our town.

Decisions taken should be fact-based and not driven by personal interest.

Perhaps we can all agree on that.

Mark Casady Tunbridge Wells

Apparently, Conservative councillor Sarah Hamilton [June 12] and others ‘did not get the message across’ as to why Tunbridge Wells ‘needs’ the Calverley Square development, and so the ‘bullies’ took over and the voters got it wrong (again).

The project is being promoted on the basis of speculation, assumption and massive overoptimism, while the facts are that Calverley Grounds would be ruined by the development and the cost is totally unacceptable.

The real ‘message’ was delivered on May 2 Roy Haycock Via email

The future needs a clearer picture Come off it, Cllr Matthew Bailey, claiming that the recent local election results were not effectively a referendum on the Calverley Square project [June 5].

The Tunbridge Wells Alliance was formed solely to oppose this misguided project. It now has six councillors and has ousted Tracy Moore and holds all three seats in Park ward.

The other lead supporter, council Leader David Jukes, also lost his seat.

As the Conservative Councillor Bailey says, the council needs to look at Calverley Square with clear heads, otherwise there will be no Conservative councillors after the next election.

Peter Russell Tunbridge Wells

Balance is a matter of perspective I feel I must respond to two contributions in And Another Thing… of June 12.

Firstly, it would set context if those contributing were to nail their colours to a particular mast.

Messrs Learmouth and Hardy have overreacted to your – as usual – balanced reportage.

It is not outrageous to list all those clearly anti-Brexit parties and accumulate their votes.

After all, they are not reducing our politics and portraying a single issue agenda. I don’t think anyone, the Times included, is denying the Brexit Party their moment in the sun, but these results do not show an overwhelming sentiment for Brexit, as the Times rightly points out.

Secondly, within your item featuring Councillor Hamilton, she refers to her colleagues ‘running scared of the bullies’!

Now she may have got used to the Tory cabal at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council getting their own way, despite local public opinion, but she should quickly realise that these times are changing – and for the better.

If she is so concerned about the misspent £10million, she can only blame her colleagues who arrogantly ploughed ahead with a scheme unwanted by her electorate.

Martin Dawes Via email

Climate change reaction disingenuous The letter [June12] from Kent County Council’s [KCC] Tonbridge member Michael Payne, in relation to the climate emergency motion at County Hall, was disingenuous to say the least.

I am the Green Party KCC member who brought

the original motion, which called on the council to adopt a zero carbon target of 2030.

The Tory amendment was a blatant case of kicking the issue into the long grass. As I pointed out in my introductory speech to the motion, any Tory watering down would be to miss the whole point of the motion. The clue was in the word ‘emergency’.

The amendment was waffle: Setting ‘accelerated targets’ (without specifying them) and – incredibly – proposing that KCC produces a report. The time for report-writing is long gone. How much scientific evidence do you need before you actually do something?

The reaction of those from Extinction Rebellion, Friends of the Earth, Green Party branches and elsewhere who witnessed the fiasco on the day was telling – they staged a ‘die in’ outside County Hall to express their disgust at the turn of events.

Also telling is that, at the last count, KCC has released ten press releases since that full council meeting but has not deemed to do so for this hopeless amended motion.

Everyone needs to step up to fight the climate emergency, including local councils – ever more, including county councils, have done so, setting zero carbon targets of 2030 or 2025. KCC’s token gesture is woeful, which is why the Green Party and Lib Dems did not support it.

Cllr Martin Whybrow KCC Green Party member for Hythe West

Paving the way to a better precinct I am sure that the majority of Tunbridge Wells residents will be in complete agreement with Cllr Mark Ellis and Karen Pengelly in their desire to rid the Calverley Road shopping precinct of the unsightly and neglected BT phone booths [May 29].

Whilst they are about it, it would be greatly appreciated if they could get KCC Highways to replace their ugly black tarmac patches with the paving slabs that were originally there, and move the benches out from underneath the trees so that they cease to be covered in bird poo.

Then people will be able to sit on them, which was originally their intended purpose.

Victor Bethell Tunbridge Wells

Let’s not forget less visible veterans Marvellous and fitting to hear the leaders of the western world paying tribute to the veterans of D-Day on June 5-6.

Strange that they find it so easy to ignore those other, less photogenic, World War Two veterans; the frail, sick and confused, the ones suffering from Parkinson’s disease, dementia or another illness of old age. The ones who are suffering from slashed social care budgets, whose day care centres or care homes are closing, who are alone at home, or neglected in dreary and underfunded ‘care’. The ones stuck in hospital because there is no suitable placement for them to move to.

There is official disrespect for these elderly people, who gave six years of their youth to defend this country and fight for freedom for Europe.

Shameful then that politicians have repeatedly promised to reorganise the system of care for the elderly, and establish open and fair means of paying for it.

Every single promise has been abandoned, despite acknowledgement from all sides that ‘something must be done’.

Josephine Ellis Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

SWEET IRONY: Impossible to resist a chuckle at the news this week that TW Cllr Nick Pope is not allowed to vote on decisions about Calverley Square. He was the one who created the Alliance political party to fight the development. But when the council meets to talk it over, he’s been ordered to stay quiet and keep his distance. The fact his wife bought a flat next door to the planned site, which it seems is when he started vocally opposing the scheme, means he has a conflict of interest.

Unkind souls suggest it also means he can now be officially recognised as the town’s Number One NIMBY. How cruel.

PARKING FINES: Calverley is grateful to all his readers (admirers) who point out that for some time it has been the rule that having your vehicle wheels outside a parking bay in a multi-storey attracts a fine, and that Calverley should have known this. Calverley would point out that normally He has a driver for the Bentley. The driver would have known, but it was his day off.

YOU KNOW there’s no such thing as a free cup of coffee. And Calverley has the evidence.

Into His favourite (sometimes) supermarket Waitrose, and at the checkout the till pings and the kindly assistant says that there’s a free cup of coffee on offer because He has a store card. Splendid, so where is it? Assistant: “The coffee machine is in the corner, sir, but you will need one of our cups.” Where are the cups then? Assistant: “In that rack next to the cash machine.” True, they were – and they needed to be alongside the cash machine.

Cups cost £12 or £10. Cheaper ones had all gone. So was Calverley, out the door…

ANOTHER business to raise eyebrows last week was Enterprise car rentals in Uckfield.

They offer an amazing deal on pretty decent cars at just under £100 a week. Great.

Trouble is, when you turn up to get the vehicle they mention the possible need for extra insurance: “Of course, sir, insurance is included, but you have to pay the excess for any damage whatsoever to the vehicle.” And that excess is £1,000. So how much is the additional cover? Just under £30 a day. That’s more than the cost of hiring the car for the week. The word ‘ridiculous’ comes to mind.

Where’s the bus timetable?

Chin Chin, dear reader

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

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Education

EDUCATION Times

Pupils make a bee-line for World Environment Day Primary school children help to create a new nature area in support of this important day

YEAR 6 pupils from St John’s Primary School in Crowborough were asked to help build a bug hotel and sew ‘bee bombs’ of wild flowers into a new meadow at the town’s orthopaedic hospital The Horder Centre.

The scheme, which was timed to coincide with World Environment Day on June 5, has been created

for the benefit of the local environment, and also for the wellbeing of patients recovering from surgery at the hospital.

Staff at the The Horder Centre also joined in the fun by building raised flower, fruit and vegetables beds.

The plan is for fruit and vegetable produce to be incorporated into the

menus for patients and staff onsite.

St John’s had already set its pupils a challenge to design a sign for the bug hotel, which they had aptly named ‘Buggingham Palace’.

Four children were shortlisted as winners, and hospital staff thought they were so imaginative they decided to display all four designs.

Guy Heasman, Head of Corporate Support Services, said: “We are so grateful for all the help and enthusiasm from our helpers at St John’s School. We hope the new area will not only become a haven for wildlife, but will also create a therapeutic space for our patients, staff and visitors to enjoy.”

Swimming to success KENT COLLEGE at Pembury is celebrating a successful stint in the Independent Association of Prep Schools [IAPS] National Swimming Competition.

The independent girls’ school had five students taking part in the finals of the competition, which were held at the London Aquatics Centre – built for the London 2012 Olympic Games – earlier this month.

Gold Ellen Warman, Evie Armstrong, Jessica Gable, Maddie Hind and Millie Mercer all took part, with

Mille and Maddie both placed 7th (out of ten competitors) in their individual races.

The school’s Under-11 Medley Team, comprising of Ellen, Evie, Jessica and Millie, came third and were awarded bronze medals.

A spokesperson for Kent College told the Times: “The highlight of the day, however, was the success of Jessica Gable, who not only won gold in the 50-metre backstroke, but did so in a new IAPS record time of 32.55 seconds.

“Huge congratulations, not only to the girls, but also to Mrs Knight and Mr Killick our swim coaches.”

NEWS

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Show your support for learning disabilities THIS week is Learning Disability Week and there are a range of activities being organised to mark it.

On Monday [June 17], there was a Makaton signing flash mob in Tunbridge Wells in the pedestrianised part of Calverley Road near Fiveways.

Makaton is a language programme using signs and symbols to help people to communicate, and the event was led by a West Kent Speech and Language Team working alongside Kent County Council’s Inspiring Lives in order to raise awareness.

Other events taking place across the county for Learning Disability Week, which is run

by MENCAP and runs until June 23, include a big tea party, which takes place tomorrow [Thursday] at the St Faith’s Adult Education Centre in Maidstone from 12noon.

There will be information about learning disabilities, the risks of isolation, and information on clubs available.

The aim is to provide a safe space for people with learning disabilities to meet and socialise, with the opportunity for members of the public to go along to increase their understanding.

For further information on special events and the Learning Disability Service, please call 03000 410333.

Month of youth action

MAKING A BIG SPLASH: The Kent College girls

FOLLOWING World Environment Day, St Augustine’s Primary School in Tunbridge Wells has launched a whole Environmental Awareness Month.

Children are encouraged to do something to help make a small difference to the environment every day, and can then tick off their efforts on a special calendar.

As well as bringing in items for recycling, pupils are being asked to take part in a community litter pick on June 30 from 2-4pm on Southborough Common. Everyone is welcome – meet at St Peter’s Church car park.

For further information, visit st-augustines.kent.sch.uk

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Weekly Comment

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Tom Tugendhat MP for Tonbridge & Malling

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Tom Tugendhat, MBE, left the British Army in July 2013 after a career in which he served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and as the military assistant to the Chief of the Defence Staff. As a Territorial Army officer, he worked on everything from those ops to establishing the Armed Forces Muslim Association, and also worked for the Foreign Office. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2015, and was elected Chair of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in July 2017.

They’re not a luxury—we need the trains to work WHAT could you do with 15 minutes? Boil a few eggs? Bath the children? Start the dinner? As we all fill our lives more and more, those minutes matter. Sadly, too often, they are wasted by events we can’t control. Like delays.

For those of us who travel by train, they’re all too common. That’s why I’m pleased that even though the new franchise isn’t starting yet, we’re getting the Delay Repay 15 brought in.

That will help many of us and, I hope, focus minds in our rail companies. Because we need the trains to work. They’re not a luxury, and though they’ve got better in recent years - on some lines - they aren’t exactly how I would choose to spend my mornings and evenings.

Instead they are simply the quickest, or only, way of getting to work.

But they’re not cheap. Costing a small fortune, they eat into our budget and our lives. That’s why we need them to be on time. Southeastern, sadly, has too many services delayed or cancelled every day.

Recently it looked like there was a ray of sunshine, as the new franchise should have started, but just like with the weather recently, our hopes were dashed, and the rain came back.

To my frustration, the Transport Minister has still not decided which company to award this

to. They should have started last year, but we still don’t know who it will be.

But this change in the delay repay scheme is welcome. Before now, it has been a 30-minute cut off, but that wasn’t great for us in Tonbridge.

With average commuter train times for London around 43 minutes, 30 minutes almost doubled the journey time, more often, delays were of 15 or 20 minutes but they didn’t count.

investment in our railways and a commitment to cooperation so that we improve all our transport, not just the trains. But there is no

quick fix. So, in the meantime, I hope that the introduction of the 15-minute delay repay will make a big difference to commuters.

Commitment That is why I asked the Rail Minister to change the policy and start the 15-minute compensation scheme now, instead of when the new franchise began. I am delighted he has done it, and the scheme will now begin in autumn. So, by the time the leaves start to fall and delays become more common, we will have a scheme that works for us, the passengers.

We will also get compensation when there are widespread issues along the track, like flooding experienced last week in Orpington, which meant that trains were delayed outside of Southeastern’s control.

In a perfect world trains wouldn’t be delayed at all and we wouldn’t need to change the policy.

And this policy won’t work alone. We need

Bob Atwood Chairman of the Tunbridge Wells Alliance

BACK ON TRACK The 15 minute rail compensation scheme works for passengers

Bob Atwood is the Chair of Tunbridge Wells Alliance, and was a Tunbridge Wells Borough Councillor from 2008 to 2012. He became Leader of the Council in 2010. Born in Sevenoaks, Bob is a chartered accountant by profession and now lives in Langton Green. He has a wife and two sons, one of whom is a councillor for the Tunbridge Wells Alliance.

Councillors are elected to represent voters but they should not assume they always know best ON MONDAY night, Tunbridge Wells Councillors finally voted to halt expenditure on the much reviled Calverley Square project, and agreed to a complete review of the project and alternative proposals. The voice of the people through the Tunbridge Wells Alliance and others had at last been heard. There is a way to go yet, but it is a start.

Since its formation in March last year, the Tunbridge Wells Alliance has often been accused of being only a ‘single issue’ Party. It is, of course, true that we emerged from a loosely organised group of anti – Calverley Square protesters, but we are in fact so much more than that.

Over the last couple of years, we have been aware of an increasing clamour of dissatisfaction with politics and politicians.

This, of course, stems partly from the Brexit debacle, but also from a more general perception of malaise, spreading from National to Local government.

If you look around you, you will be able to see that there are more and more local authorities whose elected membership comprise Independent Councillors or Councillors with no

national political party allegiances, who in a way, are starting to represent a type of resurgance that is happening all over the Country.

No longer is the public content to see ‘career’ politicians win seats, or the same old faces appearing in their newspapers. There is an increasing desire to return to the times when people put themselves forward for these positions in order to perform a selfless public service rather than for personal gain or status.

This is not to say that all local Councillors are tarred with the same brush. There are many who genuinely wish to benefit their local communities. However, there are also those, who by virtue of being part of large majorities, or through complacency or laziness, no longer deserve the respect of the public, and it is these people who are now in the process of being weeded out.

In Tunbridge Wells the Alliance Party gained six seats within just over a year from its formation. Other opposition parties gained seats also, so that the losses experienced by the majority Conservatives were undoubtedly exacerbated by the public’s desire to see

fundamental change.

Councillors are elected to represent their voters, and cannot be expected to consult them before tasking every decision that confronts them. However, this does not give such representatives the right to ignore their voters’ wishes altogether, especially about major issues that impact the lives of many of their residents,

nor the right to assume that they always know best.

Our councillors need to drop their attitudes of superiority and complacency. They need to treat the public with respect and act with humility. If they do not do this, the public will flex its muscles and replace them with representatives who will.

VOICING DISCONTENT Through the Tunbridge Wells Alliance the people have at last been heard

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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AVAILABLE EVER Y WEDNESDAY – A MUST-READ

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PROPERTY, IN TERIORS & TOP TRENDS

INSPIRATION FOR MOVING AND IMPROVING timeslocalnews.co.uk

27

AN EXECUTIVE HOME WITH CHARACTER

Plenty of pride in the home of Jane Austen’s ancestors Page 25

31

WHY A ROOF GARDEN IS A TOP IDEA!

24

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Best property buys for...

We all love to see homes with the ‘wow’ factor – which could apply to the kitchen, reception room, garden, or something else. Sarah Bond homes in on specific aspects that make these properties well worth a look…

The FURTHER POTENTIAL…

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Thorford Hall Farm

Goudhurst Road, Staplehurst GUIDE PRICE FOR THE WHOLE

£1,650,000

GUIDE PRICE FOR SECTION WITH PLANNING FOR A NEW HOME

£595,000

CONTACT • Savills, Cranbrook • 01580 720161 • savills.co.uk A former farmstead featuring a delightful Grade II-listed farmhouse, coach house annexe and 18th-century barn. It also offers the opportunity of building an additional contemporary new home, with full planning permission for an impressive two-storey passivhaus. A real gem.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST FARMHOUSE n Refurbished with a wealth of period features n Drawing room with wood-burning stove n Sitting room with French doors to terrace n Open-plan kitchen/dining room with wood-burning stove and walk-in larder n 4 bedrooms n Shower room and bathroom COACH HOUSE ANNEXE

n Sitting room n Bedroom with en-suite shower room PROPOSED EXTRA PASSIVHAUS An artist’s impression

OUTSIDE

n Garden with south-facing terrace n Oak-framed 5-bay garage with storeroom n Planning permission for substantial passivhaus n 18th-century barn with lapsed planning to link to farmhouse

n In excess of 9 acres n Cranbrook school catchment (2019)

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

The HISTORY…

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The PRICE…

Rochdale Road Tunbridge Wells

GUIDE PRICE

£365,000 CONTACT Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk

A lovely late Victorian terraced house overlooking Grosvenor Park at the rear.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n 2 ground floor reception rooms n Lower ground floor kitchen with door to garden n Spacious lower ground floor bathroom n Walk-in store n 2 first floor bedrooms n Garden with lawn and decked areas

Grovehurst Horsmonden

GUIDE PRICE

£1,695,000 CONTACT • Knight Frank, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 515035 • knightfrank.co.uk A gorgeous Grade II*-listed manor house that was home to seven generations of Jane Austen’s forebears. The earliest part is thought to date back to 1215 and it’s full of character features, including priest holes and apotropaic marks carved into a beam to avert evil influences or bad luck!

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Drawing room n Dining room with stained glass window and 17th-century fireplace

Whitefield Road Tunbridge Wells

Guide price

£575,000-£595,000 CONTACT • Jackson-Stops, Tunbridge Wells 01892 521700 • jackson-stops.co.uk

n Library with large Elizabethan fireplace

A spacious semi-detached Victorian house in the St John’s area of the town, within striking distance of excellent schools.

n Beautiful wood-panelled study

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Kitchen/breakfast room n 3 staircases

n Sitting room with bay window, polished wood floor and open fireplace

n 5-6 bedrooms (one with dressing room)

n Dining room with fireplace

n 2 bathrooms

n Kitchen/breakfast room with door to garden

n Various storerooms and an extensive cellar n Formal lawned gardens including smoke house, pond, wooded area and paddock

n Impressive master bedroom n 4 further bedrooms, 3 with fireplaces

n Tennis court in need of restoration

n Bathroom and separate shower room

n Detached double garage, plus further stores

n Garden with artificial turf, 2 decked seating areas and a shed

n In all about 3.8 acres

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Maple House

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AT A GLANCE MAPLE HOUSE SHIPBOURNE ROAD, TONBRIDGE n Under same ownership since new n Wood front door with leaded light glass windows n Sitting room with large brick inglenook fireplace and bressumer beam, plus doors to conservatory n Dining room with doors to conservatory n Light, bright study with bay window overlooking front garden n Kitchen/breakfast room with views of garden n Utility room and pantry n Cloakroom n Large conservatory with underfloor heating and 2 sets of double doors to terrace n Galleried landing

‘The location is fabulous.

My usual walks, runs and bike rides are up the private lane opposite, which leads through the countryside in various directions’ CURRENT OWNER

Excellent executive home well placed for Tonbridge schools

n Master bedroom with bay window and en-suite shower n 4 further bedrooms (2 en suite) n Family bathroom with sunken bath under an arch and ‘His and Hers’ double wash basins n Double garage with shelving, power and light n Garden with stone terrace wrapping around conservatory, plus lawn and circular rose garden

£1,195,000 CONTACT • Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 701900 • fineandcountry.com

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Property Focus

ARCHITECTURE

Blue sky thinking…

RAISING THE ROOF How an imaginative roof garden could look from inside and (below) outside your home

Architecture

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park, a nearby beach, or to a friend’s house, what alternatives are there if you want to enjoy the sunshine but don’t have a garden?

Our clients found their dream home in the top half of a Victorian terraced house which offered the location and living space they needed, but didn’t have the outside area they craved.

We were tasked with creating a design solution that resolved this.

Constructing an outside space at the roof level offers a very exciting opportunity to create an elevated and private garden area.

Here, we have vaulted the internal roof space and cut the terrace back into this vault. This creates not only a dynamic ‘loft’-style internal open-plan and double-height living space, but also a wonderful roof-level terrace.

We propose large glass panels to be set into the rear wall of the terrace, which will bring light flooding into the living space.

WITH THE

Times 31

John Bullock

Architectural services Having studied at Edinburgh College of Art and The Royal Academy of The Hague, John Bullock launched John Bullock Design in 2003. With offices in Tunbridge Wells High Street, John has won awards for his work, and is committed to delivering the best outcomes for clients

Trained areas of pleached planting against the glass screens soften the glazed element and offer the sense of a connection between the inside and outside spaces, which are connected by a secret staircase which further offers intrigue to the spacial relationship.

Planning for this type of development is key.

Before you start considering designs for your roof terrace, you need to determine whether your walls and roof can take the weight.

After all, a roof terrace alone adds additional weight, and this is increased significantly once furnishings and fittings have been added and people are walking around on it. A structural surveyor will be able to take a look for you to advise you on what can and can’t be done.

Neighbours

ITH property prices putting house ownership out of reach for millions of people across the country, it’s no surprise that buyers are turning to apartments as a more affordable option.

In London, 43% of people live in flats – the most of any region in the UK. More local to home, flats make up 19.1% of Kent dwellings.

Our case study this month looks at a project for clients who were keen to invest in a long-term London home which had the space for a growing family, but was also well located for their work commute. One additional wish high on their list was for an outside area for entertaining – a rare luxury in central London.

While some apartments come with outside space, owners of those without can be left feeling as though they are missing out on opportunities to make the most of the weather when the sun shines. Other than going to a local

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You will almost certainly require planning permission. That’s because adding a roof terrace will involve some major alterations to the look of your house, plus the terrace will overlook neighbouring properties. Simply contact your local planning authority for initial advice.

You should also consult a conveyancing solicitor to check that the lease specifically ‘demises’ or grants the space to you. Often the lease will specifically state the full extent of the property to be owned by you (this can usually be found in the part of the lease that defines the property).

For example, the roof space above a top floor flat.

We would also recommend you seek advice from a party wall expert, who will be able to advise whether a party wall agreement is required.

It is also good to discuss your plans with the people who live near you. It’s a simple gesture of goodwill that could prevent any complaints in the future. Your new roof terrace may overlook their property and impact their privacy, and during the building work there is likely to be some noise and disruption.

Being open and honest with your neighbours will stand you in good stead going forward.

THE PROS AND CONS OF A ROOF TERRACE PROS • One of the main advantages of having a roof terrace is that it adds additional seasonal living space • It also offers additional space for entertaining • It provides homeowners with outstanding views • Having a terrace built on a flat roof gives it fire resistance and high-quality thermal performance. This type of deck also provides your roofing system with sound, structural support • It creates a slope for improved wind-uplift performance and a slope for drainage • Rooftop decks offer a large space for growing vegetables and plants in container gardens. Consider that vegetation grown in large planters can take advantage of full-sun exposure in open areas • A deck on your roof can add personality to your house, making it stand out in your neighbourhood. What’s more, you can increase the value of your home CONS • The structure and weight of a roof garden can cause problems – advice must be taken from relevant experts • A water source may be required, and this brings the inevitable risk of leaks • Insurance companies may charge a higher premium for such completed works • Safety must be a consideration, especially with younger children John Bullock Design is a multi-awardwinning architectural design consultants, and the proud winner of the Times of Tunbridge Wells ‘Best Business 1-25 Employees’ Award 2018. For further information, call 01892 525732, or visit johnbullockdesign.com

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Staging a comeback The Black Deer Festival returns to Eridge Park this weekend Page 44

GO WILD IN BOTSWANA

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A little bit of southern comfort…

The Black Deer festival rocks up to the glorious grounds of Eridge Park once again this weekend. After the huge success of last year’s inaugural event, Eileen Leahy previews what this celebration of all things Americana and country music has on the bill for 2019

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ESPITE being just a year old, the locallystaged Black Deer festival has already established itself as one of the leading music events in the UK. Founded by Gill Tee and Deb Shilling, who were responsible for bringing the likes of Bob Dylan and Neil Young to The Hop Farm, this musical and cultural celebration of all things Country and Americana takes place over this coming weekend [June 21-23].

So what inspired Gill and Deb to create the Black Deer festival?

“We are incredibly passionate about Americana, there’s just something very real about it,” they explain. “We have a lifelong love of great country, blues and folk, and grew up listening to the sounds of Kris Kristofferson, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Cat Stevens and Glen Campbell.

“It’s great music that speaks from the heart, whether it’s foot-stomping bluegrass, rockabilly, heavy blues, gospel, folk, rock or heartbreaking country, we just love it.”

This year, visitors to the three-day event can expect to see the likes of

traditional country and folk stars like Kris Kristofferson and Billy Bragg alongside more contemporary turns, including The Staves, The Magic Numbers, Alabama 3, Larkin Poe, The Shires, and actress and singer Jessie Buckley all taking to the stage.

It’s certainly an impressive line-up, and made all the more special because if you want to be part of it you won’t have to get on a train or go

‘We are incredibly passionate about Americana, there’s just something very real about it’ on a long car journey to enjoy seeing these acts, as they’ll be right on our doorstep playing live at Eridge Park – Black Deer’s HQ for the weekend.

So what made Gill and Deb pick this particular location?

“We felt the time was right to launch a great Americana and Country festival in a beautiful setting. Using our knowledge and experience, we were able to bring

Black Deer to reality and create an incredible experience enjoyed by everyone in the stunning surroundings of Eridge Park.”

As well as the main stage, there will also be a number of other places on site to see live music, including The Ridge, The Roadhouse, The Supajam stage and Haleys Bar. There will also be great local music talent performing, and areas specifically for buskers.

One of the most anticipated bands to see this year at Black Deer is The Wandering Hearts, a three-piece from London who played last year and have since gone on to enjoy huge success on the Americana and country music scene, both here and in the US. The band, which got together four years ago, is made up of singer Tara Wilcox, Francessca ‘Chess’ Whiffin and AJ Dean. All three sing lead vocals, and Chess and AJ also play the mandolin and guitar respectively.

Each of them grew up on a fairly varied sonic diet, but they admit that their collective love of country and folk is what united them.

“We all loved The Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, Van Morrison, James Taylor and Fleetwood Mac, and then PARK LIFE Eridge-style, chilling out to music in the shade

HEY, Y’ALL, COME ON IN… Festival founders Deb Shilling and Gill Tee at the gates

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Arts & Culture

THE WANDERING HEARTS One of the stars of this year’s festival

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SOME OF THE KEY ACTS TO SEE AT THE BLACK DEER FESTIVAL 2019 Kris Kristofferson: A country legend ALABAMA 3 Despite the name they are an English band

started getting into contemporary country acts like Carey Underwood and Shania Twain,” Chess, who is from Cranbrook, exclusively told me.

“We got together through mutual friends. We’d heard about each other in passing and we somehow all ended up in a room together. It was just the weirdest moment because we started singing and playing together and it was like we’d been doing it for years.

“We were immediately in each other’s heads, and we’ve never really lost that feeling. We had an immediate connection.”

As well as some incredible music to enjoy over the weekend, there’s a host of other entertainment to soak up.

“Black Deer offers Americana culture at its most visceral, and stays true to the communities and cultures

that inhabit this indefinable world,” Gill and Deb add.

“It’s about authenticity, craft, storytellers and kindness. We’ve moved a few things around and added new elements for this year, but our original ethos is still there.”

As well as a brilliant kids zone – described as a ‘festival within a festival’ where younger Black Deer visitors can do everything from explore the adventure playground to den building and participating in forest school – there’s also the Live Fire foodie area. Packed full of pop-ups and

bars, it’s a ‘celebration of cooking outdoors and the lifestyle that accompanies it’, according to its brainchild chefs, Ben Merrington and Jon Finch.

“Cooking over fire has always been a celebration,” they say. “For thousands of years it’s been a way to bring communities together.

Live Fire at Black Deer continues this tradition, bringing friends together to feast and celebrate the age-old art of cooking over the flames.

“We’re bringing the very best outdoor cooking and demos all wrapped around great Southern-style food, drink and hospitality.

Expect expert masterclasses on foraging, butchery and charcoal-making from master craftsmen, through to the very best authentic low ’n’ slow American BBQ and live-fire cooking from industryleading chefs.”

Sounds like the perfect accompaniment to what’s shaping up to be a fantastic weekend of live music.

THE SHIRES are ready for the festival fun

Larkin Poe: A bit punky, a bit rocky, but really blues and rootsy The Staves: Three talented sisters who’ve toured with First Aid Kit and Bon Iver Band of Horses: Cool alt-country cerebrals not to be missed Jessie Buckley: The Irish actress and singer will be doing songs from her film Wild Rose Neko Case: A songwriter and performer lauded by the likes of KD Lang and Elvis Costello Jerron Blind Boy Paxton: Is a startlingly original musician in the vein of Fats Waller and ‘Blind’ Lemon Jefferson Fantastic Negrito: A Grammy Awardwinning contemporary blues hero who comes alive on stage Ryan Bingham: New Mexico-born-Texasraised troubadour with a bit of Bob Dylan For more information and tickets, visit blackdeerfestival.com

THE STAVES: Sisters Jessica, Emily and Camilla

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Why we will always love Dolly Parton On Saturday June 29, Trinity Theatre welcomes The Dolly Parton Story, a musical tribute to the Queen of Country. Here, Rob Picazo of Night Owl Shows, the theatre company behind it, tells us more…

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HE DOLLY PARTON STORY takes audiences on a journey through the life and career of the Queen of Country, riding the highs and lows and highlighting the vulnerability and skill that characterises her classic compositions, which include Jolene, Coat of Many Colours and I Will Always Love You. The production follows the groundbreaking ‘showumentary’ format that Night Owl Shows first premiered with The James Taylor Story back in 2016, and makes use of the exceptional talents of Hannah Richards on vocals and Alex Beharrell on guitar and backing vocals.

The show’s conception dates back to Night Owl’s first run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017, when Hannah and Alex were assistants for the company’s first productions. Along with The James Taylor Story, these included shows on the lives of both Carole King

WELL HELLO, DOLLY! The Dolly Parton Show is set to hit town

‘Dolly Parton’s compelling rags to riches story, and the depth of her legacy, made her the ideal singer-songwriter to cover’ and Joni Mitchell. Upon hearing Hannah and Alex perform, Night Owl’s founder (and titular performer in The James Taylor Story) Dan Clews resolved to create a show that would highlight the duo’s talents.

Dolly Parton’s compelling rags to riches story, and the depth of her legacy, made her the ideal singersongwriter to cover, whilst Hannah’s background in musical theatre allowed her to deliver impassioned monologues and perform Dolly’s classic songs with great authenticity.

Additionally, whilst existing productions about her life had taken a lighter and more comedic route, Night Owl saw the potential for exploring Dolly’s early years, focusing on her prowess and credibility as a songwriter.

It would appear that this more serious approach to telling Dolly’s story would strike a chord with audiences, as the show’s opening night proved to be a huge success. Soon after, the show joined Night Owl’s

ever-expanding catalogue and hit the ground running at the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, selling out to audiences and receiving glowing reviews from critics and standing ovations.

The triumphant story of Dolly’s rise to country stardom never fails to entice audiences, whilst Hannah and Alex’s faithful yet fresh renditions of classic hits like Jolene, 9 to 5,

and I will Always Love You always get audiences on their feet. With the show coming to Trinity Theatre on Saturday June 29, there’s no doubt that Tunbridge Wells is in for an unforgettable evening.

For tickets and timings see trinitytheatre.net

‘We’re committed to exceeding audience expectations’ Local theatre company Get Out Of My Space will be hosting a special piece of work from tonight [Wednesday] until Friday at Kingdom café in Penshurst. Here, Artistic Director Tobias Cornwell explains all about it, and the next show…

LIVING THE DREAM Tobias Cornwell outside Kingdom in Penshurst

GET OUT OF MY SPACE was founded in 2014 and is a company ‘committed to exceeding audience expectations’.

Having previously created two sell-out shows in Tunbridge Wells – ‘Boys’ by Ella Hickson and ‘Hymns’

by Chris O’Connell – followed by two sell-out immersive shows in the south-west, we are delighted to be returning to Kent with our new season of work for 2019.

Striking We start with our version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream this evening [Wednesday] at Kingdom café in Grove Road, Penshurst. It will be an immersive dining experience set in visually striking surroundings, and will run until Friday [June 21].

We then stage our version of the fast-paced comedy The 39 Steps at The Beacon, in their newly built amphitheatre from July 9-13.

Our interpretation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream will combine stunning performances and award-winning food from local restaurant group I’ll Be Mother as

actors perform amongst diners between courses, weaving the meal and performance together in a carefully crafted experience.

The food served will be working hand in hand with the narrative of the story to help immerse you, not only visually and aurally like a classic play, but through smells and taste, too. You will sit within the woods as the action unravels all around you, creating a tactile reality for you to be in, allowing you to experience the story through all five senses.

On the final night, we’ll be fundraising for the Hospice in the Weald. All the proceeds of that evening will go to the charity, and there will be also be a raffle with wonderful prizes.

But if you can’t make it down to see us for A Midsummer Night’s Dream, then make sure you catch our equally unique performance of The 39 Steps at The Beacon in July.

We look forward to welcoming you into our space…

For details, tickets and timings see gooms.co.uk

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goingout 7 days of activities

By Jerome Bowman SPIN BACK IN TIME At Hever’s Home Front

WEDNESDAY If you’ve ever eaten a meal where you felt needed more, theatre company Get Out Of My Space have you covered. Their production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is brought to you as you eat, with the actors performing amongst the tables and between the courses. The immersive performance will be hosted at the Kingdom café in Penshurst and starts at 7.30pm. For more information and to book, you can go their website at gooms.co.uk See also our feature on page 46

THURSDAY Curious House in Stonegate have another creative course on today. Painting in the Garden is hosted by Jane McCall. Jane’s iconic ceramics are a collectors’ favourite, but she is now interested in landscape painting and will be encouraging free and expressive painting of the flowers in situ.

The day-long course costs £95, plus £18 for materials. Numbers are limited so to book, go online to curioushouse.net

FRIDAY Tonbridge Comedy Night is back at the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge at 7.30pm. Local favourite Russell Hicks will be joined by Jonny Awsum, who will be bringing the charming brand of musical amusement that made him a favourite on TV’s Britain’s Got Talent. Tickets cost £13. To book, visit emftheatre.com This is your last chance to go with your father for the Father’s Day Offer Week at the West Kent Shooting School in Brenchley. If you are new to shooting, you can book an hour lesson for you and your father for £99 that includes 50 clays, cartridges, gun hire and insurance.

For those who fancy becoming destroyers of discs, practice prices are halved. The school has over 100 different combination targets for beginners and experts alike. To book tickets or for more information, visit westkentshooting.co.uk SATURDAY The Speldhurst Village Fete will be on today from 11am till 4.30pm. The day will include a barbecue, live music and an evening party. There will be plenty of activities for the children, including a Nerf gun area.

The Royal National Life Boat Association will be selling a range of souvenirs and gifts and will be happy to talk about all things lifeboat-related.

For more information, find @speldhurstfete on Facebook or for the RNLI, visit rnli.org Have a swig and a swing on The Pantiles today and tomorrow JUST AWSUM Comic Jonny in Tonbridge

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

SPOT ALIENS At the Uckfield Picture House

[Sunday] at the Gin & Jazz Festival. It’s on from 11am till 6pm both days and will feature more than 30 artisan gin producers as well as street food and, of course, plenty of jazz.

Attendance is free, but for more information go to thepantiles.com Once again, Hever Castle have opened a rift in space and time – in this case taking us back to 1940s’ Britain. Hever’s Home Front is a celebration of our wartime heritage, and will be on both today and tomorrow [Sunday]. Tap your toes to some swing in the tea dance tent, browse the vintage stalls, compete in the vintage dress-up competition, or even experience some authentic period cooking. There will also be a life-sized Spitfire model on display, together with historical re-enactments featuring British and US military forces.

For today only, there will be veterans of the Second World War in attendance who will recount their experiences in battle.

Standard admission rates apply. For more details, go to hevercastle.co.uk

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SUNDAY This is the last day that Scotney Castle, near Lamberhurst, is celebrating previous owner Betty Hussey’s love of blooms. For Betty’s Flower Festival, the house will be decorated with floral displays and the gardens will be also be open.

There will also be a chance to see talks, and even to take part in some spring photography workshops. Standard admission fees apply. See more at nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle As part of their Cinephile Sundays season, The Picture House in Uckfield will be screening the extended cut of James Cameron’s classic action film Aliens tonight at 7.30pm. Sigourney Weaver reprises her role as the reluctant hero Ripley, who accompanies a group of burly marines to finally wipe out the H.R. Giger-monsters infesting a mining colony. Tickets cost £9.50 and can be booked online at picturehouseuckfield.com A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM at the Kingdom café, Penshurst

SCOTNEY CASTLE Pays tribute to a former owner

MONDAY There is a serial killer at The Oast Theatre in Tonbridge at 8pm tonight, but don’t worry it’s all pretend. Mind Game, written by crime writer and

Going Out

children’s author Anthony Horowitz (Foyle’s War), is a darkly comic thriller full of twists and turns.

The story begins when Mark Styler, a true crime writer, tries to get an interview with a notorious serial killer, and quickly discovers that nothing at the asylum where he is locked up is what it seems. This production is directed by Chris Howland. Tickets cost £11 for non-members. To book seats, visit oasttheatre.com

PICK OF THE WEEK: The Merry Wives of Windsor – Live Screening

Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells Tuesday June 20, 7.20pm

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TUESDAY The Fairfax Gallery’s Summer Exhibition features new work from gallery favourites as well as new artists, and offers a relaxed environment in which to view and even purchase a wide range of contemporary art.

The gallery is open seven days a week and is free to enter. To check the gallery’s opening times, visit fairfaxgallery.com

Shakespeare’s much-loved comedy about marriage, wealth, jealousy and lies (not connected with the current royals!) will be screened live from the London’s atmospheric Globe Theatre – a reconstruction of an open-air Elizabethan playhouse. Expect doublemeanings, disguises and some dirty laundry. Tickets cost £20 and can be booked online at trinitytheatre.net

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live music With Paul Dunton

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ENOWNED blues musician Adam Karch will be at The Anchor Inn, Sevenoaks tonight [Wednesday, and local singer-songwriters Jack Burns, Saiichi Sugiyama and Milly Rusling are at The Grey Lady.

On Thursday, you can enjoy Dave Ital & Friends at Jazz on The Pantiles.

Another fine option is one of Kent’s best kept secrets – Folking in the Strawberries at beautiful Stonepitts Farm near Sevenoaks, with Alex Beharrell, Hannah Richards, The Orange Circus Band and Dan Clews.

Friday brings Jason Lines at The Bedford Vault and folk artist Hannah Scott at the St Edith Hall in Kemsing.

Saturday has Gez Gold at The Beau Nash, The Damfinos at The Royal Oak, The Martyn James Expression

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

at The Bedford and the popular ‘Boogie Nights’ at The Forum. Local & Live sessions returns to Trinity Theatre with two of the local area’s up-and-coming acts – Infrared and Katy Virgoe. And The Kent Police Band will be performing an array of music from the stage and screen at St Andrew’s Church, Paddock Wood.

Saturday also marks the start of The Sevenoaks Summer Festival, which runs until July 7. There is amazing music on show throughout the fortnight, but my top pick is the incredible Elektra Violin Duo this Saturday at Kippington St Mary’s.

And a big mention goes to this weekend’s Black Deer festival at Eridge Park, with Americana and Country music from all over the globe. See page 44-45 for details

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles, Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Jack Burns, Saiichi Sugiyama, Milly Rusling Friday Soul Kitchen , Saturday Studio 54 Sunday Alana Hazzard, Rachael Stalker, Emanuel Fanthome – Hodgson

idyllic setting provided the perfect setting for the Americana and country/ folk vibes. The 2019 festival promises to be even better. See also page 44-45

THE ANCHOR INN London Road, Sevenoaks Music from 8pm till late Wednesday Blues with Bottle presents: Adam Karch

THE BEDFORD PUB 2 High Street Friday Jason Lines at The Vault Saturday The Martyn James Expression

JAZZ ON THE PANTILES The Bandstand Music from 7.30pm (donations welcome) Thursday Dave Ital & Friends FOLKING IN THE STRAWBERRIES Stonepitts Farm, Seal Music from 6pm-9.30pm. Price is per car Thursday Alex Beharrell, Hannah Richards, The Orange Circus Band, Dan Clews MUSICSTATION Bank Street, Tonbridge To book, telephone 01732 350629 Thursday & Friday 8pm-9.30pm Play it Again. Adult band workshop, all levels welcome. Booking essential.

THE BLACK DEER FESTIVAL Eridge Park All the latest details, and tickets, can be found at blackdeerfestival.com Friday-Sunday Black Deer takes place in the sweeping grounds of Eridge Park on the border of Kent and East Sussex.

Founders Gill Tee and Deborah Shilling launched the first festival in 2018 to great acclaim, picking up several international awards in the process! The

THE STAG THEATRE Sevenoaks Tickets available at stagsevenoaks.co.uk Friday The Nashville Story

ST EDITH FOLK CLUB St Edith Hall, Kemsing Details and tickets at stedithfolk.co.uk Friday Hannah Scott SEVENOAKS SUMMER FESTIVAL Kippington St Mary’s Full event programme at sevenoaksfestival.org.uk Saturday Elektra Violin Duo live PADDOCK WOOD CHORAL SOCIETY St Andrew’s Church, Maidstone Road Tickets: £10 (under-19s free) online from paddockwood-choral.org.uk Box Office: 01892 836250 Email:

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

tickets@paddockwood-choral.org.uk Saturday Music from Stage and Screen, featuring the Kent Police Band THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM The Common Event information at twforum.co.uk Saturday Boogie Nights THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Saturday Gez Gold TRINITY THEATRE Church Road Tickets at trinitytheatre.net Saturday Local & Live Sessions: Infrared, Katy Virgoe Band THE ROYAL OAK PUB Prospect Road Saturday The Damfinos VERDIGRIS Tonbridge High Street Event details at verdigris-tonbridge.com Sunday Jade & Peter THE PUNCH & JUDY PUB St Stephens Road, Tonbridge Tuesday The Oakland Brothers Band of Horses

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ON A ROLL Upgrade your picnic sandwiches

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Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Pick the perfect picnic National Picnic Week runs from June 21 to 30 so what better time to grab your blankets and stock up your hamper or cool box with some delicious treats? Eileen Leahy discovers how you can swap soggy sandwiches and calorific crisps for a more luxurious spread this summer

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t’s fair to say that the humble picnic has certainly come on over the past few years. Once upon a time it was nothing more than a few Tupperware boxes filled with soggy sandwiches, scotch eggs and a bottle of tepid pop.

These days it’s a far grander, more considered affair with sandwiches being upgraded to fancier snacks such as the lobster roll pictured here and with the traditional fare of pork pies and cocktail

sausages swapped for a more artisan take on things – beet and blue cheese filo pastry anyone?

So with the picnic progressing in recent times – and the fact it’s National Picnic Week from June 21-30 - it’s time to up your game and get a little bit more creative in the kitchen. Here are a few recipes to inspire you. Just don’t forget to pop a bottle of chilled fizz in to make sure your posh picnic really does go with a bang…

The Lobster BLT Serves: 2 For the lobster: Ingredients: n 330 g/11 oz. lobster meat (1 large rock lobster tail is best) n 1 bay leaf n a twist of lemon peel For the sandwich: n 6 rashers/slices streaky/fatty bacon n 2 tablespoons mayonnaise n 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon,

roughly chopped n freshly squeezed juice and finely

grated zest of 1 lemon n 1 beef tomato, sliced n 1 baby gem/romaine lettuce, washed n 2 bread rolls (toasted brioche rolls

work well, as do soft white rolls) n sea salt and ground black pepper

Method: If you need to cook the lobster tail, simply cut down each side of the shell and peel it back to reveal the meat. Put 500 ml water in a large saucepan and bring to a simmer. Add the bay leaf,

salt and pepper and a twist of lemon peel. Gently place the lobster tail in the water and cook over a low heat for 5–8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it and when the meat turns from translucent to opaque it is cooked. Remove the lobster from the water and leave to cool.

Heat a grill and cook the bacon until crisp and golden. Leave to cool. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the tarragon and lemon juice and zest. When the lobster meat is at room temperature, roughly chop it and mix it into the mayonnaise, reserving a little mayo to spread on the rolls.

Split your rolls and toast the inside, then gently spread a little of the reserved lemon mayo over the toasted surfaces, as if you were buttering.

Take the bottom halves of the rolls and start layering up the sandwiches, first adding lettuce leaves, then tomato slices (sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the tomato for seasoning). Spoon half of the lobster mayonnaise into each roll and lay 3 slices of bacon on top. Pop the top half of the roll on and devour.

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Heavenly Gingerbread Cake Serves: 8 Ingredients: n 90 g salted butter n 90 g caster sugar n a pinch of salt n 250 g plain flour n 1 teaspoon baking powder n ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda n 1½ teaspoons ground ginger n 150 g candied ginger pieces n 110 g treacle n 110 g golden syrup n 200 ml boiling water To decorate: n 150 g icing sugar n 45 ml ginger wine (or hot water) n 2 balls stem ginger, chopped into thin slices (optional) n a 900 g/2 lb. loaf pan

Recipes and pictures from A Perfect Day for a Picnic

by Tori finch, published by Ryland Peters & Small (£9.99) Photography © Ryland Peters & Small

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) Gas 4.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar and salt with an electric hand whisk until light and fluffy. Sift over the flour, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda and mix well again. Add the ground ginger, candied ginger pieces, treacle and golden syrup, then stir the boiling water into the cake mix. Using the hand whisk on a low speed, slowly combine the ingredients together until smooth and gloopy.

Pour the batter straight into the prepared loaf pan and spread out evenly, then pop it in the preheated oven to bake for 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Make the icing by combining the icing sugar with the ginger wine and mixing well to remove any lumps. Drizzle the icing over the top of the cake, then sprinkle over the stem ginger slices, if using. When the icing is set, slice into wedges and pack into your picnic basket.

Times reader offer: Readers can buy a copy of A Perfect Day for a Picnic for the special price of £6 (RRP £9.99). To order go to rylandpeters.com and use code PICNIC6 at checkout. Offer valid until July 31st 2019. (p&p charges may apply)

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Uncork a taste of summer Our drinks expert James Viner picks juicy, crowd-pleasing, refreshing bottles for alfresco enjoyment. Don’t forget the corkscrew!

1) MIDDLE LOIRE SAUVIGNON BLANC STEAL Famille Bougrier Touraine Sauvignon Blanc ‘Les Hauts Lieux’ 2018, Loire, France (£8.25, The Wine Society, Alc 12.5%) A grassy zephyr of a Loire sauvignon with riffs of blackcurrant leaf and stone fruit, the smell of passionfruit and a dash of kiwi. Chill for fresh tomato, goat’s cheese and pasta salads, cold meats, mackerel pâté, smoked salmon, brie and camembert. A cracking buy.

2) OWN-LABEL PROVENÇAL ROSÉ Berry Bros. & Rudd Château la Mascaronne Côtes de Provence Rosé 2018, France (£14.95, BBR, Alc 13.5%) Not cheap (’18 was a small harvest), but this dry, finely woven, sophisticated cocktail of juicy red berry fruit, peach, spice and lemon verbena is definitely worth trying. With heady aromas of cultivated and wild flowers on a cloudless spring day, plus a whiff of salt, it’s divine with

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Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine savoury snacks, including olives, spreads and dips like hummus and tapenade, salade niçoise, ratatouille, or salmon with potatoes/simple salad. Highquality rosé from organic grapes.

3) SAPPY PICNIC RED FROM KENT FOR IMMEDIATE QUAFFING Biddenden Gamay Noir 2018, Kent (£15.50, Biddenden, Alc 12.5%) Made from a plot of ten rows of 30+ year-old vines, this supremely easy-drinking, light-bodied/low-tannin Gamay Noir is summer in a

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glass with crunchy, glossy flavours of cherry, plum and a hint of pepper, all the right levers pulled in the vinification process. Open a lightly chilled bottle with your next picnic.

Take a bow, Biddenden Vineyards, now part of The Wine Garden of England linking seven of Kent’s finest producers to create a world-class wine trail and visitor experience. Just 2800 bottles produced so don’t miss out.

4) SPLASH-OUT LUXURY PICNIC ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE Bollinger Brut Rosé NV Champagne, France (25% off/£37.49 £49.99, Waitrose; £24 for a half-bottle, Alc 12%) Every indulgent picnic hamper ought to contain a bottle of stunning quality rosé fizz for a well-deserved aperitif, and Bollinger is right up there with the best. A blend of over 85% Grands Crus and 1er Crus with a light dosage of around 8g/L, this spellbinding, full-bodied Champagne is creamy with scents and flavours of summer berries, plum and patisserie, plus hints of brioche and buttered toast. Compelling Waitrose offer. Yes!

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Travel

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Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Botswana, beauty awaits!

Could Botswana be Africa’s best kept secret? With a population of just over two million in a country the size of Spain, it is blessed with beautiful scenery, prolific wildlife (including the ‘Big Five’ animals) and an abundance of experiences – so it makes for a memorable Safari trip, offering a true diversity of landscape and game. Baldwins Travel Manager Kim Lacey recently returned from an action-packed Africa Collection trip, combining Victoria Falls and Botswana, for a very special African adventure…

GREAT start to any Botswana trip is a few nights stay at Victoria Falls, and Kim’s trip did exactly that. Perhaps stay at Elephant Camp or Old Drift Lodge on the Zimbabwe side of the mighty Zambezi River. Both properties offer luxurious tented accommodation complete with air-conditioning and views over the Zambezi.

The all-inclusive programmes include delicious dining, a large selection of drinks, all laundry, plus an array of exciting activities. These include guided walks of Victoria Falls, so follow in the

CAMP OKAVANGO Come for the fishing, stay for the views

steps of explorer David Livingstone to see the spectacular falls in all their glory, and even feel the spray of what is the largest sheet of falling water in the world.

There are also walking safaris and, depending on which property you choose to stay at, a zip line canopy tour whizzing you over the gorges and game drives with a plentiful range of game, including elephants, buffalo, rhino, leopard, lion and antelope. Cycling trips, river safaris, a village tour, and meet the elephants or birdlife experiences are all also included.

You’ll even be able to experience the game up BUFFALO SOLDIERS See them on the Game Drive safari

‘Activities include game drives and exploring the surrounding channels and lagoons by boat, plus plenty of bird-spotting opportunities in both activities’ front and personal, with wildlife trails passing through these camps as the animals make their way to the river.

Following that incredible start, a twohour drive from Victoria Falls and you’ll arrive in Chobe, Northern Botswana.

This is a popular starting point for any Botswana trip, with Chobe National Park being the country’s second largest park and renowned for its year-round game viewing.

In fact, it’s best known as the home of Africa’s largest elephant population, plus a diverse eco system.

With eight lodges (seven in Botswana plus one just across the border in Namibia), Desert & Delta Safaris offer an excellent standard of accommodation with stunning properties and very friendly staff. All include superb food and drink, laundry and, above all,

fantastic experiences with their inclusive activities.

Depending how long you want to stay, the recommendation would be to include at least three lodges/camps in your plans. With their ‘Best of Desert & Delta Safaris’ packages combining stays at multiple lodges and camps, the longer you stay the better the nightly rate will be, so there are great savings to be had, too!

Desert & Delta’s Chobe Game Lodge is the only permanent lodge in the National Park, ans all 44 air-conditioned rooms face the Chobe River. Their included activities are Game Drives and Chobe River Safari Cruises, plus Eco tours for a behind-the-scenes experience of sustainable tourism in action, and for stays of four nights or more a fascinating cultural day trip to a nearby community.

The safari activities are unique, with allwomen guides. The electric fleet of vehicles and boats, offer an especially quiet opportunity to view the abundance of elephants, as well as buffalo, giraffe, hippo, antelope and, of course, predators such as lion, wild dog and leopard.

Savute Safari Lodge is on the western edge of Chobe, so again there are amazing game sightings, including from the lodge’s own viewing deck overlooking the Savute Channel.

They have beautiful thatch and local timber chalets, including a family chalet with two double bedrooms for children aged six and above.

Further South is the Okavango Delta, which is a must-see experience. Desert & Delta Safaris have four further camps.

Xugana Island Lodge is very much a waterborne haven with motorised boat safaris, mokoro (canoe) excursions and seasonal bream fishing all available. Plus guided bush walks, bird watching and game drives, including night drives, are all possible here. As an optional extra, a helicopter flight over the Delta can be arranged for a truly memorable and scenic game experience. Summer is especially good to see the migrating birds arrive for breeding.

Camp Okavango is a more traditional camp with rooms built on wooden platforms and connected by wooden walkways. Motorised boat safaris, mokoro and seasonal bream fishing plus guided bush walks are all included, and as an optional extra the scenic helicopter flights are also possible. This is a hidden treasure offering a year-round water wilderness experience.

Moving to the east but still in the Delta, lies Moremi Game Reserve. Thanks to the recent reintroduction of black and white rhinos, this is a ‘Big Five’ sighting opportunity, with the other four being the elephant, buffalo, leopard and lion. Desert & Delta Safari have two further camps here.

Camp Moremi is a classic-styled tented safari experience but with those luxurious touches. Activities include game drives and exploring the surrounding channels and lagoons by boat, plus plenty of bird-spotting Kim Lacey opportunities in both.

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

SOMETHING TO TRUMPET ABOUT… An elephant at the Savute Safari Lodge

Adjacent is the recently upgraded Camp Xakanaxa, with luxurious safari tents for another classic tented camp experience. Game drives, motorised boat safaris and bird watching are all included year-round activities.

Further south lies the Makgadikgadi National Park, where Desert & Delta Safaris have their Leroo La Tau lodge. This thatched and glassfronted chalet lodge is located on a prime position facing east on the edge of the Boteti River, and game drives here include following the wide riverbanks to witness herds of elephant and journeys of giraffe climbing these steep banks as they seek water.

You can see large populations of zebra, wildebeest, kudu and impala – in fact it’s an ideal place to witness Africa’s second largest migration of zebra and wildebeest. Also, hippo, rhino, flamingo, meerkat and big cats.

Game drives and motorised boat safaris are all included activities, as is a cultural experience to a local village to experience community life.

Getting between the camps and lodges is an experience in itself! This is by light aircraft, and these low-flying transfers allow you to truly

marvel at the scenery and game life below.

These are mostly operated by Desert & Delta Safari’s own airline, Safari Air, with a 5-10 passenger capacity. A strict 20kg small, soft luggage restriction applies, but with laundry included at all camps this is not an issue.

There are clearly a lot of choices here, so contact Baldwins Travel to discuss this in further detail. They’ll be only too happy to discuss your

Travel

requirements and advise the best time to travel and the best combinations, and they can also offer you great general advice on how to make the best of your time.

If Botswana is not for you this time, ask Baldwins Travel about the other destinations that the Africa Collection and Indian Ocean Collection can offer.

Thinking about South Africa? How about a stay in Cape Town with a Garden Route trip followed by a malarial-free Eastern Cape safari?

For another incredible safari experience option, what about a stay in Kruger?

Or take advantage of the non-stop flights to Durban for a moving battlefields tour and trip through the beautiful Drakensberg mountains.

Take in a safari and finish back on the Indian Ocean coast.

Other amazing trips and countries are available, too – Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Uganda and Rwanda.

All are available in the new brochure, which also includes the new Indian Ocean Collection, covering such island gems as Mauritius, Reunion, Rodrigues, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Mafia & Fanjove, Mozambique and Madagascar & Mayotte.

All are available as amazing single-stay destination experiences or combinable as twin and multi-centre stays.

DONT FORGET YOUR TRUNKS Poolside at Savute

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55

BALDWINS TRAVEL MANAGER KIM LACEY’S TESTIMONIAL I have been selling holidays for 44 years and I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to many continents. Africa is one of my favourites.

I visited Botswana for the first time in March; it is a land of many contrasts, and in my opinion it has some of the best game viewing due to the diversity and density of wildlife. With such a variety of areas within Botswana that one can visit and experience, I had many different memorable moments.

Here are a few of my favourites…

■ A cruise down the Chobe River, watching herds of elephant crossing from one side to the other with the babies holding on to their mothers’ tails.

■ Flying low and witnessing the magical scenery from a light aircraft when transferring from camp to camp was just breathtaking.

Encounters ■ At night, relaxing around a boma (a small fire), enjoying pre-dinner drinks with fellow travellers and discussing the various up-close and exciting animal encounters. Here, one can pick out the stars from the amazingly clear skies and listen to the noises of the wild.

■ Embarking on a scenic helicopter trip, dipping and diving like a bird, whilst hippopotamuses and crocodiles go about their daily activities below in the labyrinthine waterways and lagoons.

■ Close your eyes for a moment and imagine you are moving along the river in a mokoro, a dugout canoe in the Okavango Delta. Listen to the birds singing and see the rippling water and swishing rushes as you pass by.

Open your eyes and there, in the middle of the low river, sits a table with drinks and canapés with several smiling rangers waiting to serve you while the sun is setting.

This is why I love Africa.

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Books

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

The bookcase…

This week’s bookcase includes reviews of Diary Of Somebody by Brian Bilston and The Whisper Man by Alex North

BOOK OF THE WEEK

Diary Of Somebody

by Brian Bilston

Published in in hardback by Picador, priced £14.99 (ebook £12.99) Failing at his dead-end job and dealing with the breakdown of his relationship, Brian Bilston challenges himself to write a poem every day while he attempts to patch his life back together.

What follows is a diary and collection of around 150 poems that develop into a tale of murder mystery. You don’t have to be a fan of poetry to enjoy this book – in fact, Bilston pokes fun at rambling and esoteric poets in the form of his pretentious rival, Toby Salt. His daily musings are simple, clever and accessible. In a similar way to Morrissey and John Cooper Clarke, he has the ability to make the mundane both funny and beautiful – whether that’s taking out the bins or procrastinating on Twitter. I devoured it from start to finish.

A must-read for anyone who is a fan of wordplay, puns, The Smiths and custard creams.

(Review by Liz Connor)

9/10

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

The Whisper Man

by Alex North

Published in hardback by Michael Joseph, priced £12.99 (ebook £7.99) It has twice been my misfortune to live in an area with a homicidal maniac on the loose.

The second time I watched from my bedroom window as grim-faced police officers searched the hedgerows behind my house. Alex North’s tightly plotted crime thriller presses all the right buttons for the genre: A world-weary detective with a failed marriage and a drink problem, an ambitious younger officer, departmental politics within the force. And it’s all set in an Anytown (in this case, it’s called Featherbank) that could be anywhere in England. In this highly structured environment, we find the courage to look upon evil. Yet knowing how abruptly a real community goes into self-imposed lockdown once a body is discovered, I was not entirely convinced by a novel that depends in places for its chill factor upon the protagonist’s inability to remember if he has locked the front door.

(Review by Liz Ryan)

6/10

8/10

The Body Lies by Jo Baker

Published in hardback by Doubleday, priced £12.99 (ebook £7.99) A random act of city violence on a pregnant woman by a stranger opens this sinister tale. From then on, death stalks its pages. In an attempt to escape the reminders of her assault in London, a young novelist moves north with her son to take up a creative writing university post. Eager to please and overworked, she finds herself in the thrall of a mysterious student who claims to only write the truth. But as their lives entwine, she realises there may be a more troubling reality lurking within his fiction that could lead her into further danger. This is a book that asks questions about the role of art, and the terrifying consequences when you become the subject of somebody else’s imagination. What could be seen as a slight over-fixation on the craft of writing can be overlooked in a read as thrilling as this.

(Review by Jemma Crew)

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk NON-FICTION

Apollo 11: The Inside Story by David Whitehouse

6/10

Published in paperback by Icon Books, priced £15.75 (ebook £7.91) In Apollo 11, former BBC Science Correspondent Daniel Whitehouse presents a sober retelling of the events that led humankind to put a man on the Moon. Whitehouse attempts to recapture some of the heady paranoia and intense competition of the Cold War by switching between the American and Soviet CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW

The Paper And Hearts Society

by Lucy Powrie

Published in in paperback

by Hodder Children’s Books, priced £7.99 (ebook £4.99) Based around a group of friends, The Paper And Hearts Society is a more literary-style, modern Famous Five book. Blogger and booktuber Lucy Powrie introduces her characters in this fabulous series opener with hero Tabby, who isn’t like everyone else, and she knows it. Her constant self-talk and checking to make sure she fits in is bringing her down. The one place she feels herself is when she is hunkered down with a good book. While staying with her gran, Tabby goes to a new book club meeting. Fellow members Olivia, Cassie, Ed and Henry

Books

perspectives. However, the book is at its most successful when Whitehouse gets out of the way of its protagonists, letting the astronauts and cosmonauts offer their own verbatim accounts of their often perilous – and occasionally fatal – missions. The real strength of this book is its tribute to the human qualities of pioneers who were willing to sacrifice so much. The tragedy is that for the politicians who encouraged these missions the space race was little more than a propaganda exercise.

(Review by Rachel Farrow) have been friends for a long time and Tabby holds herself back. Why doesn’t she feel worthy of being with them, and what is she hiding from them and herself? A cracking book featuring many problems faced by today’s teens.

(Review by Rachel Howdle)

8/10

Life&Times

57

BOOK CHARTS HARDBACKS 1. Pinch Of Nom by Kate Allinson and Kay Featherstone 2. Those Who Are Loved by Victoria Hislop 3. Normandy ’44: D-Day and the Battle for France by James Holland 4. Fing by David Walliams 5. Bedlam: Skulduggery Pleasant

by Derek Landy 6. Ghosts of the Shadow Market by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, Maureen Johnson, Robin Wasserman and Kelly Link 7. Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson’s Journal by Jeff Kinney 8. Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing by Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse 9. The Quick Roasting Tin by Rukmini Iyer 10. Greenfeast by Nigel Slater PAPERBACKS 1. How To Be Right… in a world gone wrong

by James O’Brien 2. No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

by Greta Thunberg 3. Now We Shall Be Entirely Free

by Andrew Miller 4. A Long Night In Paris by Dov Alfron 5. Normal People by Sally Rooney 6. Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett 7. In A House of Lies by Ian Rankin 8. The Umbrella Mouse by Anna Fargher 9. The American Marriage by Tayari Jones 10. The Silence Of The Girls by Pat Barker (Compiled by Waterstones) TOP FIVE EBOOKS 1. Engleby By Sebastian Faulks 2. The Forgotten Village by Lorna Cook 3. The Promise by Teresa Driscoll 4. Rachel’s Holiday by Marian Keyes 5. Penshaw by LJ Ross (Compiled by Amazon)

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Motoring

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Motoring News SPINNING INTO ACTION The ideal car for two-wheel fans even includes a washing machine

Skoda Karoq Velo is the concept car for cyclists SKODA has unveiled a new concept designed specifically for cyclists.

The Karoq Velo is a compact SUV fitted with a host of features designed to help it become the ‘ultimate support car’ for fans of two wheels.

The design has been led by a UK survey of over 1,500 cyclists about what would make their ideal cycling vehicle.

Because 27% of respondents said that returning to their car with damp clothing was one of the biggest downsides of cycling, Skoda has integrated a fully operational washing machine.

It means that riders can put their clothes in to be cleaned as soon as

they finish a ride. A pressure washer means the bike can be cleaned, too.

Of the cyclists surveyed, 31% said mechanical issues were also a major issue. In response, Skoda installed a full tool kit and equipment set to help with rapid puncture repairs. The car also features built-in LED lights to help with late-night repairs.

A roof rack can carry two bicycles and you can store one inside, with still enough space for three people.

Though there are no plans to put the car into production, the one-off concept will be used throughout the summer to help professional cyclists.

This week…  A cyclist’s dream  Aston excitement  New e-sounds law

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

New EVs must emit noise to keep pedestrians safe

The DB4 Zagato returns, as part of a racy Continuation revival…

ASTON MARTIN has revealed the first example of its reborn DB4 GT Zagato model, which made its public debut at the Le Mans endurance race at the weekend.

Earlier this year, the luxury carmaker announced that its heritage division would be building 19 examples of the classic racer using a mix of period-correct and modern building techniques.

The exterior body panels have been hand beaten into shape using 1.2mm-thick sheets of aluminium, and the red paint has been matched to the original shade. Inside, black leather upholstery covers the carbonfibre bucket seats, while an FIAapproved roll cage is also present.

The 4.7-litre engine is a larger version of the straight-six-cylinder petrol engine used in the DB4 GT Continuation, which was the first ‘reborn’ Aston Martin handled by the Heritage Division.

It makes 390bhp, which is fed to the rear wheels through a fourspeed manual transmission.

Aston Martin Lagonda President and CEO Andy Palmer said: “The development and successful creation of this latest Continuation car is an achievement that should not be underestimated. Indeed, it could well be argued that we are making history with these new cars.

“Celebrating our brand’s deep and enduring partnership with Zagato in this, their landmark year, by launching the DBZ Centenary Collection has been a mammoth undertaking, and I’m personally extremely proud of the results in the shape of this new DB4 GT Zagato.”

The original models were built in collaboration with famed design house Zagato in the 1960s to try to take down Ferrari’s motorsport dominance of the era.

ALL new electrified vehicles must emit a noise at low speeds to warn pedestrians of their presence under a new EU law.

The ruling applies at all four-wheeled fully electric and hybrid vehicles that go on sale from July 1.

Under the EU Regulation on the Sound Level of Motor Vehicles and EU Requirement ECE R138, electrified vehicles must have an Acoustic Vehicle Alert System [AVAS] that activates at speeds below 20kph (12mph), and be at a minimum noise level of 56dB. According to noise control experts IAC Acoustics, 60dB would be the equivalent of conversation in an office, or standing 100ft from an air-conditioning unit, and about half as loud as a vacuum cleaner.

The regulation states that the AVAS should emit a noise that is ‘a continuous one providing the vehicle driving behaviour to other road users and pedestrians’.

This means the sound level should increase and decrease in relation to the vehicle’s speed to convey whether it’s accelerating, decelerating or travelling at a consistent speed.

Some car manufacturers already have AVAS fitted to their vehicles, such as Jaguar with its I-Pace, which emits a science-fiction UFO-like warble below 12mph. And in March, audio firm Harman revealed its experiments with AVAS, demonstrating a Tesla Model S that could emit the sound of a V8 petrol engine.

60

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Recruitment

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Wednesday June 19 | 2019

WITH THE

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

Fill your vacancy now in print or online

From just £99 For more information contact our commercial team on 01892 779650

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

CODEWORD 4

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Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

5 6

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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

7 5

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★✩✩

CLASSIFIEDS

Life&Times

Puzzles

In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply.

Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.

Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue

I N D E P T H V E I N S

D E A S K E V I I I A G R AM D O N E UMO N I U O O A R S E H C S J A T O V E R U L W R A Q I I N R N S T Y L I S H

E L I Z A B E T H

P F O R O L I S X H

E A R S U R I O N EW

I T H N Y M C E AM O R D E E S T L Y

Sudoku:

9 1 3 7 6 4 8 2 5

2 8 5 9 3 1 6 7 4

6 4 7 5 2 8 1 9 3

1 2 8 6 9 3 4 5 7

5 6 4 2 8 7 3 1 9

3 7 9 4 1 5 2 6 8

4 9 1 8 5 6 7 3 2

8 5 6 3 7 2 9 4 1

7 3 2 1 4 9 5 8 6

2 1 8 9 6 5 4 7 3

4 6 9 2 3 7 5 8 1

3 8 7 5 9 2 1 4 6

5 4 2 8 7 1 6 3 9

1 9 3 6 5 4 8 2 7

Jigsaw Sudoku:

9 2 6 7 4 8 3 1 5

8 3 5 4 1 6 7 9 2

6 7 1 3 8 9 2 5 4

7 5 4 1 2 3 9 6 8

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

62

Life&Times

Sport

FORsports EVENstories MORE to: NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Please send newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

Cowdreys caught in the new nets at Swanmead CRICKET: KENT captain Sam Billings, former skipper Chris Cowdrey and his son Fabian unveiled new double-bay cricket nets at Swanmead on Monday (June 17).

The club, formerly known as Tonbridge Printers, changed their name in honour of Chris’s father Colin, the legendary England batsman.

He attended Tonbridge School - as did both his descendants - and was later appointed Lord Cowdrey of Tonbridge.

Delighted The club’s President Bill Warner wrote to him asking if they could rename the club and he responded to say he would be delighted.

The new facilities cost £50,000 and the club are seeking sponsorship. For more information contact chairman Darren Apps on 07952 908716 or vice chairman Glen Warner on 07732 100245.

On Saturday Cowdrey were once again frustrated by the weather, which has made their campaign in Kent League Division Three a stop-start affair following their promotion.

Catford Wanderers won the toss at Swanmead

PLAY TIME Sam Billings and Chris and Fabian Cowdrey open the new nets

and elected to bat. Remi Chea, who made 56 with six fours and six, made a steady start.

But the home side’s quartet of pace bowlers kept Catford in check and at the halfway stage they had reached 103 for 2.

The introduction of Sri Lankan off-spinner Minhaj Jalill (2 for 37) and Richard Marsh (2 for 25) sparked a middle-order collapse after Shavawn Cunningham fell for 32.

The tall and fiery Nick Farr then returned to polish off the innings, picking up 3 for 28, while Jason Carver ran out Menesh Gunalan (33) to end his resistance.

Cowdrey’s chase got off to a bad start as they lost both openers with 13 on the board, but they were rescued by a gritty, unbeaten 19 off 64 balls

by Carver and a sublime 54 not out from allrounder Jalill off just 46 balls.

With Cowdrey well on top needing 103 off 28 overs the rains came and the match had to be abandoned.

The 10 points take the Tonbridge team up to fourth place, having lost only once in six games.

Cowdrey now host Catford & Cyphers on Saturday (June 22).

English title for Taylor as West is in time for Worlds ATHLETICS: TONBRIDGE Athletic Club’s Nicole Taylor won the national 10,000m title in a thrilling race at Walthamstow.

In a stiff wind on a rainy Friday event, Taylor set the early pace alongside Team GB marathon runner Tracy Barlow of Thames Valley.

The pair slowly pulled away from the chasing racers as they passed two miles, a third of the way through the race, in 10min 45sec.

But when they reached the halfway point of

IN THE RUNNING: James West is vying for a place at the World Championships

the 25 laps, Taylor went to the front and she would never surrender the lead.

By the time she reached four miles in 21:40, her lead had built to 30 metres. The gap grew to 200m and she stopped the clock at 33:31.35, a personal best and beating the Tonbridge club record by 22 seconds.

“It’s such a surprise,” she said. “I was aiming to go for something around 34 minutes, so I was planning to just go with the pacer and see what happens. I’m so happy.”

Tonbridge’s cross country manager Mark Hookway said: “Nicole has been running with the club for 10 years now and has made steady progress into the senior ranks.

“She is probably in the best form of her life now, having run 15min 57sec for 5km on the road recently and then 33:31 for 10km on the track to win the England Championship.

“She is very dedicated and has a strong relationship with her coach Richard Owen. That has helped ensure consistency in her training.”

James West set a new Tonbridge Athletic Club 1500 metres record competing in the United States at the Brooks PR Invitational meeting.

His time of 3min 35.74sec improved on Olympian Andy Graffin’s previous best, set in 2001, and was inside the World Championships qualifying time.

The race in Seattle was won by Scotland’s Josh

SHOW YOUR METTLE Nicole Taylor (centre) runs in the England 10,000m and (below) with her gold medal Kerr, who recorded 3:33.60 to break Steve Cram’s British under-23 age group record. The times put both Kerr and West at the top of the UK rankings and inside the world top 15.

Hookway said: “James has bounced back to top form after a difficult few months.

Having suffered an Achilles injury, he struggled at the end of the indoor season and was disqualified for a false start at the outdoor Regional Championships.

“However, getting the

qualifying time for the World Championships in Doha in September, might be the easiest part of the selection process, as Great Britain is currently blessed with 1500m runners who challenge on the world stage.”

The British trials will be held at the end of August. The team can include three competitors for any event, with the first two at the trials gaining automatic selection provided they have achieved the necessary standard.

Royal performance as Paling takes third at Windsor

By Adam Dennis TRIATHLON: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Triathlon Club member Grant Paling produced a stunning personal best to claim third place in the famous Windsor Triathlon out of 932 competitors.

The event is held in the stunning surroundings of Windsor Castle and the Long Walk.

Paling (M40-44) had previously completed this race in 2016 in two hours 38 minutes and was determined to break 150 minutes.

He started the swim strongly and used the current well. He followed up with a bike ride that was four minutes quicker than his previous attempt and a run that was eight minutes faster.

Paling was astounded to see that he had finished in a time of 2hr 12min 23sec, coming first in his age group.

He had doubts about the accuracy of the swim time but given the improvements in the other disciplines he is confident that he would have

still broken the 2:30 barrier.

Suzanna Kinsella (F45-49) also took part and put together a consistent race, recording a time of 2:57.08 to finish eighth in her section despite forgetting where she had put her run shoes in the second transition.

At last weekend’s Eastbourne triathlon there were four club athletes competing in the sprint distance (750m swim, 18.3km bike, 5km run).

Iconic Starting from the lifeguard’s beach, the triathletes took on an iconic route, swimming against the backdrop of the historic Eastbourne pier, cycling the roads through the South Downs National Park via Beachy Head and running on the promenade to Holywell, before finishing on the Western Lawns.

In the sprint distance, first home for the club was Richard Bysouth (M40+) in 1:12.40, finishing

an impressive 15th out of 134 competitors and fourth in his age group.

Nik Austen produced a superb sprint finish to take ninth in age group (M40+) in 1:19.19, narrowly missing a photographer and barrier.

Graham Hubbard (M40+) managed a time of 1:24.37 followed shortly afterwards by Mark Poulton (M40+) in 1:26.58.

Julian Ward (M40+) took on the longer Olympic distance (1500m swim, 41.5km bike, 10km run) and finished in 3:00.23, 25th in the age group.

The following day, two Tunbridge Wells triathletes were competing in the Sussex Sprint Triathlon held at Ashburnham Place in Battle.

This race consists of a 750m lake swim, 20km challenging rural bike course and 5km run within the grounds of Ashburham Place.

Matthew Usher (M45-49) came fourth overall and first in his age group in 1:15.38, just three seconds off a podium place. George Woodhouse (M40-44) was third in his category in 1:28.08.

FATHER’S DAY Grant Paling with his daughter Aurelia at Windsor

Wednesday June 19 | 2019

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Sport

Life&Times

63

Tunbridge Wells boys’ grammar reach record two national finals FOOTBALL: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Grammar School for Boys [TWGSB] has become the first school in Kent to reach two National Cup finals in the same season – in the 98-year history of the Kent Schools Football Association.

The Under-13 B team won through to the final of the English Schools Football Association [ESFA] National Cup for B teams, out of 107 teams from all over the country.

The match was played at The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion, against Thomas Telford, a strong football school in Shropshire.

It was a very exciting contest with TWGSB suffering a narrow 4-3 defeat. The goals were scored by George Rayner, a wonderful volley by Titomi Olofin and a smart finish by Raphi Simmonds-Dance.

Twenty years ago, Head of Football Drew Menzies played at the same stadium in the ESFA Under-18 National Cup final.

He said: “The team has been excellent this season, winning six matches to reach the final.

“Finishing the season as National Cup runners-up is a great achievement by the boys and we are very proud of them.

“Despite the narrow defeat the players and supporters all had a fantastic day at such an impressive stadium.”

The Under-13 Bs had won 5-2 against Oakwood Park GS, 6-0 versus Maidstone GS, 4-0 against Dover GS, 10-0 versus St George from Southampton, 3-2 after extra-time against Ivybridge from Devon in the quarter-final, and 3-2 – again after extra-time – versus Kingsdale from South London in the semi-final.

The TWGSB Under-15 Futsal team also reached the National Cup final at St George’s Park, the National Football Centre in Staffordshire, taking

on Van Dyke from Bedfordshire.

Futsal is a small-sided format played on a hard court smaller than a football pitch.

TWGSB were 1-0 up at half-time and increased the lead early in the second half.

However, they conceded twice and the match went into extra-time.

Proud The Tunbridge Wells side took the lead again to make the score 3-2.

But they were pegged back again with two minutes remaining in extra-time, having hit the woodwork four times during the match.

A best-of-three penalty shootout was required to separate the evenly matched teams, which TWGSB lost.

Mr Menzies added: “We are really proud of the

boys for what they achieved this year. To never be behind in the National Cup final, hit the woodwork four times and lose in a best-of-three penalty shootout was particularly disappointing.”

To reach the Grand Final the team won 12-8 against St Gregory’s, 14-6 versus Dover GS and 11-10 in the Kent Cup Final away at Dane Court GS in Broadstairs.

They went on to qualify from the South East England Futsal finals in Bedford, and then topped the group at the national semi-finals in Birmingham.

The school experienced further success this season with the Under-19s First XI runners-up in the Kent Cup while the Second XI won the county final.

The Under-17s also won the Kent Cup following a 0-0 draw against Leigh Academy at Maidstone United FC, which meant the trophy was shared.

TWGSB: A SEASON TO REMEMBER Under-19 1st XI Kent Cup runners-up Under-19 2nd XI Kent Cup winners Under-17 Kent Cup winners Under-16 Kent Cup semi-finalists Under-15 Futsal National Cup runners-up Under-15 Futsal Kent Cup winners Under-15 West Kent runners-up Under-14 National Cup last 32 out of 626 teams Under-13 A Elite National Cup semi-finalists Under-13 A National Cup last 16 out of 670 teams Under-13 A Kent Cup semi-finalists Under-13 A West Kent winners Under-13 B National Cup runners-up Under-12 National Cup last 32 out of 624 teams

FIELD OF DREAMS: The Under-13 B team (above and right) at West Brom’s Hawthorns stadium