Times of Tunbridge Wells November 1 2023

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

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The much-criticised plans to close railway ticket offices would have made it far more difficult for disabled people to travel.

Anne Musker, Chair of Tunbridge Wells & Area Access Group told the Times she is ‘overjoyed’ at the announcement.

She said: “We are overjoyed at the news that plans to close the ticket offices have been scrapped, and the recognition that disabled people would be less able to travel. At a time of high job vacancies, it was clearly ridiculous to make it harder for disabled people to get out and about.

Many thanks to all the residents in the area, and to Greg Clark, for supporting this campaign.”

The public were overwhelmingly

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FOLLOWING yesterday’s news (October 31) that the planned widespread closure of railway station ticket offices in England has been shelved, campaigners are celebrating that two local train station ticket offices will now stay open.

Tunbridge Wells Station and High Brooms Station’s ticket offices will remain open to the public, as it was announced on October 31 that plans to close most station ticket offices in England, brought forward by train operators following pressure from the Government to save money, had been abandoned.

Greg Clark MP, who has campaigned to keep ticket offices opened, told the Times: “I am delighted by this decision

– which is the right one for passengers.

I met personally with both the Secretary of State for Transport and the Rail Minister to make clear my view that the train operating companies should not be allowed to close ticket offices in Tunbridge Wells, High Brooms and Paddock Wood.”

He added: “These ticket offices are important for people who have more complex journeys to discuss with an experienced member of staff and for those who may struggle to buy tickets online or with ticket vending machines.

“There are now further steps that I want Southeastern to take including bringing in Pay As You Go to our local stations so that – like in London – you can tap in and out with a credit or debit card without needing to buy a ticket.”

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Rail station ticket offices to remain open following industry U-turn

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BACK IN BUSINESS : This year’s group of winners celebrate at the Times Business Awards at Salomons Estate. The date for 2024 has just been announced. See page 7 for all the details

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

This week… Rail ticket office closures now shelved Continued from front page

SUPPORT LOCAL: Business entrepreneur Nat Sharp of Sharp Thinking chosen as Small Business Saturday finalist for 2023. P6

PITCH PERFECT: Noel Bradbury on the success of his men’s senior football initiative aimed at the over 40s. P8

against the proposal of closing ticket offices.

In a survey conducted by watchdogs London TravelWatch and Transport Focus, 99 per cent of responses opposed the plan.

Rob Mansfield, Chair of Tonbridge Line Commuters, a group who campaign for better rail services, is ‘delighted’ the Government has ‘seen sense and stopped these harmful cuts’.

He said: “They were an ill thought-out veil for staff cuts and risked leaving passengers stranded or ripped off. Our fare system is too complicated and is well overdue a radical simplification. The ticket office staff are well versed in the system and can help save money, provide information and assistance.

“Staff numbers have already been cut back and we see this at High Brooms, that is all too often abandoned. The ticket machine was vandalised

but there seems to be no urgency to repair it. We are increasingly seeing anti-social behaviour at stations, and it seems unlikely that having fewer staff will help this.

“It is time that the Government stopped using the railway as a political football and looks beyond their direct money in and direct money out spreadsheets to realise the indirect benefits that the railway brings. The railway offers us economic and social mobility and is much more environmentally friendly than using a car.”

U-turn Transport Secretary Mark Harper said the Government has asked the train operators representative body, the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) to withdraw their proposals, which were brought forward due to pressure from ministers.

This is in response to watchdogs Transport Focus

and London TravelWatch announcing they opposed every single planned closure due to issues such as the impact on accessibility.

Mr Harper said: “We have engaged with accessibility groups throughout this process and listened carefully to passengers as well as my colleagues in Parliament.

“The proposals that have resulted from this process do not meet the high thresholds set by ministers, and so the Government has asked train operators to withdraw their proposals.”

A train operator source told the media: “There is quiet fury in the rail industry about where we’ve got to. The plan was signed off by civil servants and ministers. They’ve U-turned.”

In September, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak suggested closing ticket offices was ‘the right thing for the British public and British taxpayers’ as ‘only one in 10 tickets are sold currently in ticket offices’.

Tunbridge Wells Post Office reopens on Grosvenor Road MAKE ROOM FOR THE MUSHROOMS: Local fungi expert Keith Palmer hosts a Fungal Foraging expedition around Dunorlan Park. P10

THE Post Office at Five Ways, formerly housed at 18 Grosvenor Road, has relocated to a larger unit at 35-37 Grosvenor Road following two periods of closure in November and December last year.

The new unit is now open to customers from 8am to 7pm Monday-Friday and 9am to 5pm on Saturdays, increasing its opening times by an extra ten hours per week. Postal services will be available from 9am until 5:30pm on weekdays and 9am until 1pm on Saturdays.

Accessibility

IT’S FULL STEAM AHEAD: Rose Hill pupils participate in a week-long educational journey of discovery with Greg Clark MP sitting in. P21

Services provided at the new store include Drop & Go and Parcelforce Express postal services, MoneyGram for money transfers, foreign currency, travel insurance and travel money cards, vehicle tax renewals and identity and license services for passports and other identification cards.

The store also sells stationery, cards, confectionary, drinks and tobacco, with brand new accessibility features such as low writing

desks and serving counters and an accessible entrance.

The corner unit where the Post Office used to be is now listed for rent by property consultants Cradick at £35,000 per annum, as well as the two office spaces above it, priced at £7,979 per annum each.

Meanwhile, in Tonbridge, the newly relocated Post Office will reopen in January 2024 following a campaign by residents to reinstate permanent postal services to the town.

Tom Tugendhat MP said: “We all know that this has taken much longer than anybody expected, however, I am pleased that we will finally have a permanent presence back in the centre of Tonbridge.

“I know that everybody would have loved this site to be open for Christmas. I have though received assurance from Matt Boughton, Leader of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council that they will continue to host the Post Office in its temporary form at the Castle until the permanent site opens.”

Borough Council puts surplus assets up for sale

CONTACTS EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 576037 NEWS REPORTER GRACE CORCORAN | 01892 240626 newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uk SUB EDITOR SIMON MUGFORD simon.mugford@onemediauk.co.uk

UP FOR SALE: The Decimus Burton building

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By Grace Corcoran

Russell & Bromley store announces its closure RUSSELL & Bromley on Mount Pleasant Road in Tunbridge Wells is set to close on 11th November, with potential job losses still unknown at the time of going to print.

The luxury shoe and bag retailer, which has occupied the unit at 42-44 Mount Pleasant Road for many years, is said to be looking for a new and improved location in the town.

Plans have already been submitted to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council by the owners of

the unit, Moreton Investments, to turn it into a ‘mixed use’ building with two flats on the second and third floors.

Located opposite Tunbridge Wells Railway Station, the store stocks women’s and men’s shoes, as well as children’s school shoes, and is conveniently located between the bustling High Street and Royal Victoria Place at the top of town.

The Times reached out to Russell & Bromley for comment.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Borough Council’s (TWBC) plans to sell ‘surplus’ assets has most recently seen a Decimus Burton building come on to the market.

The Grade II listed property, located at 9-10 Calverley Terrace, Crescent Road is now for sale. The building, along with its car park of 30 spaces, is located near to Hotel du Vin and Calverley Grounds, and is within walking distance to the train station.

As previously reported in the Times (February 23, 2023), the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society had their sights set on the building for a Decimus Burton museum however, the Council decided to list as a surplus asset.

The property, which is marketed as a ‘freehold development

opportunity’ currently provides a combination of offices and meeting rooms and was once a former residential dwelling.

The offices join the Mount Pleasant Avenue Car Park which has also been put up for sale

by TWBC. The site currently operates as a car park for nearby office workers during the week and is a public pay and display surface car park at weekends. In total there are 46 designated parking spaces.

The surplus assets are just two of 11 listed on the Councils’ Asset Management Plan (AMP) for 2023-2024.

Others include Great Hall car park, Meadow Road car park and 33-36 Crescent Road.

The AMP provides a management strategy for the Council’s property assets.

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

NEWS IN BRIEF

Appeal launched following stabbing

OFFICERS are appealing for witnesses following a report of a serious assault in Southborough, Tunbridge Wells.

The incident is reported to have taken place at around 11.40pm on Sunday October 29 in London Road near to the junction with Pennington Road.

The victim has been taken to a London hospital where he remains in a serious but stable condition.

Two men, aged 48 and 40, who were arrested at the scene in connection with the incident, have since been bailed pending further investigation and enquiries are ongoing.

Town’s biggest event returns

THE ANNUAL Dunorlan Park Fireworks will take place this Saturday November 4 at 7pm.

The event, which is put on by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Round Table, is the single biggest event in the town, attracting more than 10,000 visitors.

Last year, the display raised more than £30,000 for good causes and like previous years, proceeds from the event will go to local charities.

Tickets are still on sale for the display at rtwrt.org or can be bought on the gate.

Spa Valley drinks festival is a success

THOUSANDS of visitors descended upon the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells for the Real Ale and Cider Festival (October 19-22).

This year’s event was the most successful yet with 1,924 visitors enjoying the festival.

This helped the railway to raise essential funds to continue operating its heritage trains for all to enjoy.

NEWS

Park goers react to new Dunorlan parking charges

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TWGGS ‘Outstanding’ in Ofsted Inspection

Rusthall café under new ownership

DAILY Bread, a popular café on Rusthall High Street, will reopen tomorrow (Thursday November 2) under new owners.

Joe McElroy who has been at the helm of the popular food and coffee venue for 10 years handed over the keys to Joe and Rebecca Perry last weekend.

Mr McElroy said: “Thanks so much to all my amazing staff and all the customers over the years… couldn’t have done it without you.”

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BEFORE AND AFTER: Dunorlan car park pictured last week and this summer (inset)

By Alex Hakes THE controversial new parking charges in Dunorlan Park came into force on October 16 and a fortnight later park users have been reacting to the changes.

Friends of Dunorlan Chairman Peter Russell said of the noticeably emptier car parks: “I live just around the corner from the park and we’ve certainly seen a drop off in numbers. There has certainly been a change.”

But he added that it will be difficult to judge the full impact of the changes until the popular summer months.

Unpopular “In the summer people drive to Dunorlan Park, they bring a picnic, spend most of the day there and that’s now going to cost them an extra fiver.

It’s that type of user that will suffer.”

The Friends of Dunorlan, who voted to reject the plans for parking charges, also have concerns over the potential impact on the Dunorlan Park Boats, weekly Park Runs and the café. Peter Russell told the Times: “The café normally gets a very busy period immediately after the Park Run on Saturdays but we wonder whether people will stay for a coffee if they have to pay but we haven’t got evidence of that yet.”

Dunorlan café owner Ian West has a pragmatic view of the new charges: “It’s early days at the moment. The regular faces are still turning up.

Although I wasn’t in favour of it, ultimately wherever you go you have to pay to park.”

The decision by Council leaders not to grant a free first hour of parking has been widely

criticised by dogwalkers. Mandy Egerton of Wybourne Rise in Tunbridge Wells walks her rescue dog daily in Dunorlan and isn’t convinced the new charges will raise the intended amount.

“My dog’s too nervous to go on the road so we drive and it’s £1 a day. The car park is practically empty every day. It’s my car and one other.”

And while Mandy appreciates the charges have been introduced to tackle the Council’s £943,000 deficit for 2023/24, she suggests a better source of revenue would be a dog warden.

“They have to raise money but I don’t think this is the answer. Why not fine people for not picking up after their dogs and dogs not on their lead where they’re supposed to be? There are some serial offenders daily.”

Looking for an alternative to Ashdown Forest, after parking charges were introduced there in November 2022, Lauren Scarborow visited Dunorlan with her family from Crowborough.

She was surprised by the charges, having parked for free two weeks ago, and claimed the cost could dissuade her from returning.

If the unpopularity of the new charges continues to keep drivers away, Friends of Dunorlan Chairman Peter Russell is not convinced that the annual funds raised by the Council will reach the expected £95,000.

“We’ll certainly be interested to see what the footfall is over the winter and next year. Their revenue might not be as much as they anticipated if not so many people go there.”

The Times approached Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for comment on this issue and they responded saying: “Income for the two weeks since charges were introduced is £2,479. It is too early to say any more about the scheme, we need to allow people time to get used to it.’

TUNBRIDGE Wells Girls’ Grammar School (TWGGS) has been graded ‘Outstanding’ in every category of its recent Ofsted report, under the new Inspection Framework.

The inspections have moved away from data-heavy inspections and now includes a judgment based on quality of education. This includes the 3 I's; Intent (how the curricula is designed and sequenced), Implementation (how that curricula is taught) and Impact (the achievement of pupils) The TWGGS inspection, involving four inspectors from Ofsted, took place on September 19 and 20, and the findings were announced yesterday (Tuesday October 31).

A spokesperson for TWGGS said the inspection was ‘comprehensive and rigorous’ and that it was Ofsted’s first visit to the school which is located on Southfield Road in Tunbridge Wells since 2011.

Impressive “The result is an impressive report on the work of all areas of the school,” the spokesperson added.

Mrs Linda Wybar, Executive Headteacher, said: “I don’t think I have ever been more proud of our pupils and staff. TWGGS is an exceptional school because of the commitment, respect and love of learning that we all share.”

Associate Headteacher, Mrs Katie Marchant added: “The school community really rose to the occasion and demonstrated to all what we already knew: we are an outstanding school, with outstanding pupils and staff.”

The report describes the exceptionally high expectations at the school, where pupils keenly engage in challenging work and thrive in its inclusive, supportive community.

“Throughout the report, there is a focus on pupils, not only praising their academic excellence, but also recognising that pupil well-being is a high priority,” added the school’s spokesperson.

“As well as noting pupils’ exceptional behaviour and justifiable pride in their school, the report recognises the value that is placed in the individual, and that ‘pupils feel that their voice is heard and that they have a powerful say in their school community.”

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Wells Young Borough Council approves new plan Tunbridge Conservative speaks at to bring empty homes back into use Westminster event

Significant He said: “It is simply about the Council being more proactive and anticipating the potential of using empty homes, of which we have quite a significant number across the Borough to both bring them back into use and perhaps to ease our housing crisis ourselves.”

Cllr Pound added that there is still an outstanding item being discussed – whether the housing services team can engage with empty homeowners to see if they might consider a short-term let to bring them back into use, helping to ease the housing waiting list.

This would be one way of addressing the ‘intense housing pressure’ Tunbridge Wells sees itself under, due to high levels of demand and limited supply.

The policy seeks to address the shortage through several other objectives, too, including

PRESSURE: The policy aims to bring more rental properties to the market developing an approach to help identify and tackle empty homes and research solutions that work well in other areas.

Figures from the Empty Homes Policy 2023-2028 show the number of empty homes on July 13, 2023 was 571.

Of the 571 homes, 569 have been empty for more than six months, and of those 569 properties, 362 – some of which may have been inherited recently or are currently on the market – are eligible for the scheme. The remaining 207 homes are exempt for a multitude of reasons, including owners in hospital or care homes.

A ‘long-term empty’ is defined as a home that has been vacant for more than six months – these are the type of homes that the Council will be focusing on.

Properties that are only used occasionally, such as second homes and holiday lets, uninhabitable properties and empty commercial spaces such as those above shops are currently excluded.

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A REVIEW of the Empty Homes Policy 2023-2028 has been approved by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council at a Cabinet meeting on Thursday October 26 at Town Hall.

The policy aims to bring an empty home back into use, by making the best use of existing buildings to help address the housing crisis in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.

The modified policy has been revised to address empty homes across Tunbridge Wells ‘through more proactive management of data engagement and intervention.’

At the meeting, Cllr Hugo Pound (Labour), Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning said that the updated policy could potentially ‘ease our housing crisis’.

be empty, for example, the death of an owner, an owner waiting for the market to improve, or a major being refurbishment required.

Incentives to help tackle the problem include the ‘No Use Empty’ initiative, a Kent-wide scheme set up in 2005 that gives advice and guidance to owners, and works to bring empty properties back into use and create newbuild homes from derelict sites.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council can also provide financial assistance to assist owners with bringing long-term empty properties back into use.

During the period 2018-2023, the review states that ‘with direct involvement from the Council, 72 units of accommodation were provided from empty properties, including 25 units of affordable housing at Dowding House and six units at Crescent Road. Included in this total are No Use Empty loans and top-up loans from the Council which delivered 31 units back into use’.

The Covid pandemic and statutory work meant that the Council was unable to externally survey empty properties for more than two years.

The policy also states that any complaints received related to empty properties and to exempt properties or second homes.

Council Tax charges also act as a deterrent to empty homes. The Council adopts the national policy which states that properties that have been empty for more than two years attract a 100 per cent premium, those that have been empty for more than five years attract a premium of 200 per cent and properties that have been empty for more than ten years attract a 300 per cent premium.

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LOCAL Young Conservative Alex Puffette was invited to speak at a Westminster Foundation for Democracy event last Tuesday (October 24).

He addressed a delegation of acclaimed young leaders from ALEX PUFFETTE Malaysia who had gathered to hear more about opportunities to get involved in politics in the UK. Mr Puffette, who was the youngest person to stand as a candidate in Tunbridge Wells in this year’s May elections, currently serves as the Chairman of the Tunbridge Wells Young Conservatives and is the Young Conservatives Co-ordinator for Kent.

The UK-Malaysia Young Leaders’ Exchange, which aims to give young people in positions of leadership in Malaysia an insight into the workings of the UK parliament, brought together young people from the Conservative, Labour and SNP parties.

During the event, Alex was invited to speak to his fellow young leaders. He told the Times: “I was delighted to talk about my experience as a young person involved in politics, particularly my reflections on standing in an election for the first time.

Alex says he is passionate about getting more young people involved in local politics. “There is a need to ensure that young people still see the importance of traditional forms of political engagement like voting and running for office.

“Local politics desperately needs to attract more young people, and to achieve just that, events like this one are exactly what parties of all stripes should be involved in.”

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

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SOUTHERN Water officials marked Bewl Water reservoir’s 50th anniversary last week (October 25) at a press event, paying tribute to its history and impressive engineering.

The reservoir is southeast England’s largest span of open water and has the capacity to supply up to 150 litres of water a day for nearly 200 million people. It is situated in Lamberhurst, straddling the border of Kent and East Sussex.

The occasion marked the commencement of the man-made reservoir’s history, with the ambitious Bewl Valley project taking form in 1973 after securing Royal Assent from Queen Elizabeth II through the Medway Water Act. It was a response to the increasing water demands of growing towns, including Medway, Thanet, and Hastings.

Upon completion, the valley was transformed into an 800-acre reservoir, accommodating a staggering 31,000 million litres of water, equivalent to stacking six London buses on top of one another.

It boasts a 30-metre-high and 1,800-metrelong dam, constructed by excavating clay from the grounds to dam the valley. The venture came with an £11million price tag and required two years to complete.

Graham Setterfield, who served as the Deputy on-site Engineer in 1973, reminisced about the project’s early days.

He said: “I remember back then during the summer you could jump over the river Bewl. I was 26 years old when I started working with a team of around twenty designers, technicians, and inspectors, all having backgrounds in civil engineering or similar.”

Picture: Swoop Media

Bewl Water celebrates its 50th anniversary

BEWL WATER TODAY Graham recalls: “It was a three-year construction project for us and during the summer months the working day was about 18 hours, seven days a week. There was a lot of local interest from the community. We built a viewing car park for residents and visitors to

BEWL WATER UNDER CONSTRUCTION

watch our progress.”

Southern Water and South East Water, who work in partnership, currently use the reservoir to service customers in East Sussex and Kent and replenish the Medway.

Ashley Marshman, Head of Operational Customer Service at Southern Water said, “We’re delighted to be here today marking the 50th

anniversary of Bewl Water. It was a major engineering feat to build such a much-loved and integral reservoir. It is testament to the success of the forward-thinking of the time and it is a vital part of our water resources plan for the area of Kent and East Sussex.”

Nick Bell, South East Water’s Head of Operations for Kent said: “Bewl Water reservoir is a vital part of our future for water resources, and we are pleased to work in a successful partnership with Southern Water. It is also a much-loved amenity for the communities we serve, and we are proud to be part of that aspect too.”

Today, the grounds are leased to leisure company Bewl Water, which runs healthy outdoor activities on and off the reservoir.

The site is popular amongst families, fitness lovers and wildlife spotters.

Kevin Parker, Senior Operations Manager added: “As the occupier of Bewl Water, our responsibility is to protect its unique features.

We base all our actions on the principles of conservation and sustainability and maintain a close partnership with Southern Water. With a history spanning five decades, our commitment is to preserve this remarkable landscape for the next 50 years, ensuring it remains accessible to both locals and tourists while serving as crucial habitats for wildlife.”

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Turning an old-fashioned quiz into digital reality Local entrepreneur Adrian Conroy has recently launched a free daily online game. Named QIZU – the out of order quiz – follows the publication of his new quiz book, First Born.

Adrian teamed up with leading Tunbridge Wells digital marketing agency Bayhall to build QIZU. Adrian exclusively told the Times: “I’m really grateful to Jon Coupée at Bayhall for bringing the QIZU concept to digital reality. His creative and technical expertise was central to making the game intuitive and fun.”

QIZU – the out-of-order quiz is a free daily online game inspired by Adrian’s books ‘Chicken or Egg?’ and his latest book, ‘First Born’.

“QIZU challenges you to sort a list into the correct order, with a different themed question each day,” explains Adrian. “QIZU can be played on a smartphone, tablet or computer, letting you slide four items into (what you think is) the correct order. You can have as many attempts as you need, and QIZU will give you hints after a few goes.”

Challenge He adds that QIZU will ‘show how your score compares with all the other day’s players, and you can share your score via social media’.

“A group of players in Langton Green have been playing QIZU each day and posting their scores in a WhatsApp group – non-competitively, of course!”

Adrian says that QIZU brainteasers are perfect for those who like trivia and playing daily games like Wordle.

“It takes most players about 60-90 seconds to complete a QIZU challenge, with many playing every day. People play QIZU in a coffee break, on the train to work, or at the kitchen table with their other half. They love the variety of question topics and challenging friends to beat their score.

Give it a go!”

His latest book, ‘First Born’, follows in the footsteps of Adrian’s popular quiz book ‘Chicken or Egg?’ which he published last year. Both books challenge the reader to put themed lists into chronological order – a unique format that hadn’t been published before.

“First Born challenges you to sort themed groups of household names into birth order. It features actors, musicians, sport stars, TV personalities, the great and the

ADRIAN CONROY

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE Each month Thomson Snell & Passmore will be answering frequently asked questions from across the practice. If you have a legal question you would like featured in this monthly Q&A please submit it to info@ts-p.co.uk.

The shops are full of advent calendars and Christmas decorations and have been for weeks. Have you made your Christmas plans? If you’re separated, with children, Christmas arrangements can be a minefield. Helen Waite in the Family team answers your questions.

How can we agree what happens over Christmas?

good…” Adrian says.

“We all think we’re a good judge of other people’s ages, but it’s not as easy as you might think – there are plenty of surprises. And you’ll discover who is (pleasingly) older and (annoyingly) younger than you!”

Themed questions in Chicken or Egg? test the reader’s recall of news stories, iconic sporting moments and contemporary popular culture – everything from TV shows to cherished childhood toys and sweets.

Adrian told the Times of Tunbridge Wells what motivates his writing: “I enjoy creating quiz questions that gently challenge readers to get their own memories in order but also evoke nostalgia and fond recollections from their younger life. Readers tell me they enjoy playing the challenges with friends and family after a meal together.

The questions certainly spark some interesting conversations.”

Adrian adds: “If you like a quiz you’ll enjoy my books. And if you’ve got a couple of decades on the clock and an ‘ology in chronology’, you’ll love them!”

For further details, visit: detailqizu.co.uk

Marketing strategist launches one-off free event to support local companies

The key is to start early, and try to talk to each other directly.

The more you can communicate with each other the better for everyone involved. It is also necessary to try and put your personal feelings aside. Christmas is an emotive time of year and not spending all of it with your children can seem heart-breaking and overwhelming, but the most important consideration is what is going to be best for the children?

What will they want and need over Christmas? How can they spend time with both parents and wider family, if that’s what they have always known? Sometimes it is just too emotive to be able to agree directly. In those circumstances it might be that mediation with a family lawyer or therapist trained in mediation, can help you to have those direct discussions and reach an agreement that everyone accepts.

What if we can’t agree what happens over Christmas?

If it’s not been possible to agree Christmas arrangements with the other parent, and mediation hasn’t been enough, then taking legal advice may be the next step. Again, doing so sooner, rather than later is key. Both parents could instruct collaborative lawyers and meet together as a four to try and reach an agreement with the lawyers helping. It allows that direct communication but both parties feel safe as they have legal advice throughout and the lawyers work together to help both parents to come to an agreement. If one parent is finding it hard to compromise, then it may be necessary to instruct a solicitor to negotiate on your behalf in letters or by way of a round table meeting. If none of the above options are possible then it may be necessary to make an application to the court.

It doesn’t mean that you can’t still reach an agreement, but it gives certainty that if you can’t, the family court will do so.

What if we have separated but still want to spend Christmas together?

That’s absolutely fine and if both parents agree, that can be the arrangement that works for your family unit. As long as spending time together is going to be calm and rewarding for the children, it can become a new tradition with the example set that although their parents aren’t together anymore they can still come together for important family events. Again communication is critical, agree what the arrangements are and understand them. It means they are more likely to go smoothly.

By Elena Percy AN award-winning marketing consultancy in Tunbridge Wells and SmallBiz100 finalist is launching an exciting event in preparation for Small Business Saturday.

Sharp Thinking Marketing is run by marketing strategist, Nat Sharp, who has worked with a number of small and medium-sized businesses across Kent, Sussex, Surrey and London and most recently provided strategic marketing training to the Financial Times’ events arm FT Live.

In celebration of being recognised by Small Business Saturday UK, a grassroots campaign which celebrates small business success, Nat is putting on the free event on December 1, at Sankey’s, Mount Ephraim, to support small businesses in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas in their growth and success.

Nat told the Times: "The Small Business Sessions are dedicated to providing essential advice to micro businesses in need, across key areas.

“By connecting entrepreneurs with experts, I aim to improve business practices, decision-making, and help overcome challenges such as rising costs and changing customer behaviour. This is an opportunity to give them a boost before the end of the year."

Throughout the day, business experts in accounting, mentoring, digital marketing, and marketing and sales strategy will be available to provide free 30-minute advice sessions. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to receive a professional business headshot.

With the guidance of local business experts, the Small Business Sessions aim to empower entrepreneurs, increase their knowledge, and aid in making informed decisions that will benefit their businesses. While booking in advance is

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

It’s my first Christmas and my children will be with the other parent, I’m not sure what to do?

NAT SHARP recommended, walk-ins are also welcome.

Nat, who has over 20 years of experience in marketing and has been chosen by Small Business Saturday as a SmallBiz100 finalist this year, is also offering additional online sessions for those who cannot attend the event at Sankey's.

Matthew Sankey, local councillor, small business champion, and restaurant owner, expressed his pride in hosting the event at Sankey's. He commented: “I understand the challenges faced by small businesses and see The Small Business Sessions as an opportunity for the community to unite and take advantage of free expertise from business experts.”

The Small Business Sessions will take place on December 1 from 11am-3pm at Sankeys, Mount Emphraim. To book a slot with a business expert at this one-off event go to: sharpthinkingmarketing.co.uk/smallbusinesssessions

The first Christmas without your children is hard, there’s a real sense of loss. Make plans, spend time with others, make alternative plans when the children are with you and start new traditions. Sometimes, particularly with younger children, Christmas Eve can be an equally magical day, with the anticipation of the next day. If that is the day the children are with you, start a new tradition, it doesn’t have to be costly, just something they will enjoy and remember and can be continued.

If you have any questions about this topic, please contact Helen Waite info@ts-p.co.uk

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Local News

BUSINESS

Times Business Awards are back for 2024 Biggest business event of the year returns with two new categories and public voting for the first time…

THE TIMES Business Awards is returning in 2024 to find the best businesses in and around Tunbridge Wells.

The seventh edition of the annual awards ceremony promises to be another showstopper, with two new categories, a celebrity host and the opportunity to network at one of the region’s biggest business events of the year.

Next year’s gala dinner will take place in the Victorian Theatre at Salomons Estate on Thursday March 14, 2024.

Insight Entries will be open from today (November 1) and will close on Thursday February 1, 2024.

The winners in most categories will be chosen by a panel of independent judges, but the general public will be able to have their say in two new awards.

The judges are drawn from a range of sectors, with each selected to bring their unique insight into not only what makes a good company, but also what makes business good for the local area.

Launching in 2016, the glitzy awards ceremony showcases the best businesses the area has to offer and welcomes over 200 guests to the gala evening. Over the years celebrity presenters have included former MPs Michael Portillo and

WHO IS COMING TO TOWN? Since the Times Business Awards were first launched in 2016, the event has been hosted by famous faces in politics, entertainment and broadcasting.

The first awards in 2016 were hosted by Edwina Currie.

Past presenters to have also taken to the stage include politician Michael Portillo, radio presenter Ken Bruce, Strictly judge Anton du Beke, TV presenter Eamonn Holmes and last year’s host LBC presenter Nick Ferrari.

Keep your eyes peeled for next week’s Times – out November 8 – when the presenter for the Times Business Awards 2024 will be revealed.

?

Edwina Currie, Radio DJ Ken Bruce and Strictly’s Anton du Beke have overseen the popular awards ceremony.

The 2024 Times Business Awards will see the introduction of two new categories, with both voted for by the general public for the first time.

Further details of these categories will be announced on December 1.

‘Retailer of the Year’ is a new category for 2024, recognising outstanding contributions made to the local area by a retailer.

Also new for next year is ‘Food and Drink Hero’. This category is for the best companies in food and drink, with a focus on those that source locally and sustainably.

Returning to the Times Business Awards is ‘Charity of the Year’, which will honour local charities and not-for-profit organisations that play a positive role in the life of our area.

In ‘Best Family Business of the Year’, judges will be acknowledging businesses that show how being a family business has had a positive impact on its achievements.

Other Times Business Awards celebrate environmental achievements, creativity, and businesses of varying sizes.

Picture: David Bartholomew

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN LOCAL BUSINESS Each category is available for sponsorship.

For details please contact Robin Singer at: robin.singer@onemediauk.co.uk START-UP BUSINESS OF THE YEAR This award recognises companies founded since January 2022, which have been attracting lots of attention.

CREATIVE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR This is a very strong sector for Tunbridge Wells, covering the creative, design, marketing and PR sectors which have made our town their home.

CHARITY OF THE YEAR For this category, judges will analyse the charities and not-for-profit organisations which play such a positive role in the life of our area.

GREEN BUSINESS OF THE YEAR This category will recognise companies for their commitment to the environment, whether through reducing energy usage, ‘localising’ their supply chains or any other green initiatives.

BEST FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR The judges will be looking for the business that best demonstrates how running a family business has added significantly to its competitive advantage. The winner will need to show how being a family business has had a positive impact on its achievements.

ambition and quality of management in the area. The ‘outstanding’ company has delivered on a compelling business strategy, while developing its employees’ skills and looking after staff.

BEST BUSINESS 1-25 EMPLOYEES This award is for companies with a workforce of up to 25 which have maintained consistent growth and strong financial performance, both meeting customer expectations and supporting employee welfare and growth.

RETAILER OF THE YEAR This new award, nominated by the general public, will recognise outstanding contributions made to the local area by a retailer. Open to retailers large or small, with a local or national presence.

BEST BUSINESS 26+ EMPLOYEES Consistent growth, financial performance and an engaged, positive workforce are just some of the criteria that set these companies apart from other medium to large businesses in the area.

FOOD AND DRINK HERO This new category, also voted for by the general public, is for local companies that produce or serve the very best in food and drink, especially those that source locally and sustainably. All kinds of establishments are eligible, from fine-dining restaurants to small-scale producers.

For more details, visit the dedicated website: timesbusinessawards.co.uk

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS OF THE YEAR This award will reveal which company demonstrates the best combination of growth,

TWO NEW CATEGORIES:

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8

COMMUNITY

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

‘Get your boots on!’ Local football club encourages men back into the game IS YOUR BUSINESS A FUN PLACE TO WORK?

SQUAD GOALS: TW Seniors and Roger Wood (front), with the Richard Powell Trophy

By Grace Corcoran A LOCAL football club is increasing participation in the sport among older men while creating a community where friendships are forged.

Coordinated by father-son duo Noel and Kody Bradbury, Tunbridge Wells Seniors Football is helping men dust off their boots and get back on the pitch.

Founded in 2018, with 12 men playing walking football, Assistant Headteacher and football coach Noel realised the group were incapable of ‘just walking’, so evolved a style of play to bridge the gap between full competitive football and walking football.

Now, TW Seniors has grown into a group of more than 60 players of mixed ability – from complete beginners to retired professionals – who congregate every Sunday at St Gregory’s Catholic School’s 3G pitch.

Noel told the Times: “TW Seniors meet each week for the pure enjoyment of football. It’s inspiring to see the game spark something inside them.”

The rules are simple – non-contact with the ball below head height to minimise injuries. The games are fast and flowing, with a lot of movement.

In the UK, half of those aged over 55 do no physical activity. TW Seniors encourages men to get back to playing no matter how old they are. The club places no limits on age, but is broadly aimed at men over 40 who have given

up regular football but are not quite ready for walking football.

Joe Neil, 72, who has been with TW Seniors for 18 months notes the ‘camaraderie’ and a ‘wonderful atmosphere of tolerance’ that has been cultivated at the club.

He said: “It is hugely therapeutic both physically and socially and for those of us that hate gyms or running, it is probably the only major exercise in the week – and it is a lot of fun.”

Positivity Neil Simmons, who has been playing football with TW Seniors for over five years, said: “When you first join, it’s highly likely that you don’t know many others but after just a few weeks, you gain 50-plus new friends.”

Jerry Milner, who joined the club three years ago said: “One of the highlights of the week now is waiting on a Saturday morning for the team sheets to be sent out so you can see who you are playing with and against… it makes you feel like a kid again!”

The values that are instilled by Noel and Kody build confidence in players and create an atmosphere of tolerance and good spirit. Sportsmanship, fair play, positivity and respect are embraced by the men.

Every few months, the group votes for a player who embodies these values, and they are awarded the Richard Powell

Trophy, dedicated to Richard Powell, a former TW Senior and football coach at Rusthall FC, who passed away in 2021.

Mat Swift, who had ‘hung up his boots’ for several years before signing up, told the Times he was ‘made to feel confident’ and ‘encouraged’ while he found his form again.

He added: “I’ve not only improved, I can even do things on the pitch that I thought had been lost with age!

“I can truly say I love playing football again and have never felt or been made to feel out of place. There’s an incredible sense of camaraderie.”

Currently, TW Seniors use threequarters of the 3G pitch at St Greg’s, but Noel says he would like to see the empty quarter filled.

“The only time there isn’t a game on is Christmas week. There is no pressure to come every week. We welcome players of all abilities – whether you’ve never played before or want to get your boots back on,” Noel said.

Mat added: “If you like football, want to keep fit and join a great bunch of ‘lads’, there is no better way to get back or simply keep on playing.

“There are regular beer and curry evenings too!”

TW Seniors meet every Sunday, from 5pm to 6pm at St Gregory’s Catholic School, Tunbridge Wells. Membership is £14.50 per month.

If you would like to join, email Kody at: bsportscoms@yahoo.com

Guests dance the night away at charity ball

By Elena Percy

WEST END STAR: Aimie Atkinson

In the majority of small/ medium-sized businesses, the greatest success is achieved through building a positive culture of engaged staff within brilliant teams. Everyone in the business is part of forming the culture, however, it’s the Leadership that sets the tone.

You may have worked in a business with a toxic culture, where the Leadership aren’t respected or liked, or where managers don’t show trust in their staff. Hopefully you’ve worked in an environment where your voice was heard, nobody was looking over your shoulder, and you were inspired to try hard and help the business improve.

Would you say the culture in your business is positive, and do your colleagues share you view? Do you know, have you asked them? Do you think there may be things holding your culture back, but you’re either not sure what they are, or you’d like more evidence of them?

Employing 1-2-1 interviews, group sessions and surveys with leaders, managers, staff and internal/external stakeholders, Bold Biz Coaching can help you to measure your leadership, teams and culture.

Using an approach that is different to anything you’ll have seen before, you’ll be presented with a crystal-clear visual representation of the key people aspects of your business, comparing what the Leadership hopes for and observes to the lived experience of everyone else in the business.

You’ll be given a practical and realistic range of actions you could take to improve your business culture, as part of an action plan that will be programme managed to implementation.

Bold Biz Coaching offers a kit full of insightful, imaginative and impactful tools to help you measure your existing leadership, teams and culture, and to help you formulate and programme manage a development plan. (Email for a copy) Whether you are the boss of the business, a stakeholder or someone in the business who has some influence, if you know you’d like some help, or even if you’re not sure, please get in touch to arrange a FREE Initial Meeting

A CHARITY supporting people following the diagnosis of brain cancer has raised a record amount from its annual fundraising ball.

The ball, which was organised last month by Come Dance On The Hill for Brainstrust, saw 180 guests gather at Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells and raised over £21,000.

Record Event organiser Chris Park, said: “The 2023 Charity Ball was a roaring success, with a record amount raised.

The figure was just shy of £21,500 – almost £3,500 over the target and £6,000 more than 2022.”

Guests were treated to a variety of entertainment, including Tap Attack from Britain’s Got Talent, ballroom and Latin champion dancers, a fire performer, contortionist and West End star of SIX and Pretty Woman, Aimie Atkinson.

Mr Park added: “We also had the fantastic jazz duo Laura & Co perform

Meet the expert:

throughout the night, while the party band Beer Pressure had everyone dancing the night away. We are ready to go again for the 2024 Charity Ball.”

Michael Brittain, fundraiser and supporter said: “We were really pleased with the overall amount raised and a big thank you should go out to all the people and companies that donated

prizes to our big prize draw and auctions, as well as all of those who dug deep into their pockets on the night to raise such valuable funds for such a worthy charity. The amount raised will make such a difference to those people in need and their families.”

Next year’s Charity Ball will be held on October 12, 2024.

David Smith, Managing Director of Bold Biz Coaching has worked in industry for nearly 40 years, most of those in Leadership roles. He is bringing a fresh approach to business advice and consultancy to small/medium-sized enterprises; challenging you to be bold commercially, making serious business fun for you and all your staff, and tapping into your drive to succeed through change. Please get in touch to find out more.

www.boldbizcoaching.co.uk Telephone: 07956 045182 Email: sayhi@boldbizcoaching.co.uk

10

COMMUNITY

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Local charity awarded grant from Gatwick Foundation Fund ASPENS, a charity which supports people with autism and learning needs into paid employment both locally and elsewhere in Kent, announced last week that it has received a grant of £5,000 from London Gatwick’s Foundation Fund.

The charity provides quality care and support services, in Kent and across the South East, from its Pembury base near Tunbridge Wells.

Aspens believes that individuals with disabilities deserve equal opportunities when it comes to seeking gainful employment and works hard to ensure that every person, regardless of background or ability, can access the support needed to thrive in the job market.

Aspirations According to a spokesperson for London Gatwick Foundation Fund, grants are available for local projects that ‘support young people, improve health and wellbeing, tackle social isolation and disadvantage, or raise aspirations and employment opportunities’.

Robert Shanahan, CEO of Aspens, said: “We’d like to say a huge thanks to London Gatwick for its support. The grant will make a big difference to the lives of so many people and help us as we strive for a more inclusive society.”

At the heart of this initiative are employability sessions conducted at Aspens’ Day Opportunities Centre. These provide vital assistance to individuals in their quest for meaningful employment that aligns with their aspirations, interests and needs.

The grant will make a significant difference in the lives of those who aspire to take part in these transformative employability sessions and will ensure that those facing financial barriers or lacking the means to self-fund can now access these vital resources.

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Locals brave elements for fungal foraging day

QUALIFICATIONS: Aspens users receive City and Guilds certificates

The Aspens’ curriculum includes a City and Guilds Skills for Working Life qualification, coupled with hands-on job coaching.

Participants have the freedom to select units tailored to their desired career paths, covering diverse topics such as work preparation, animal care, horticulture, hospitality and retail, among others.

To further enhance employability prospects, Aspens offers an optional 30-week course called ‘My Employment Passport’. This specialised course is designed to support individuals on the autism spectrum or those with learning disabilities as they transition into the workforce.

The Aspens team collaborates closely with local businesses to provide practical opportunities, including job interviews and work experience.

Melanie Wrightson, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at London Gatwick, said: “It’s a privilege to be in a position to help worthy causes like Aspens.

“Hearing from the groups we support as part of the Gatwick Foundation Fund about how the money helps them to continue their vital work gives us so much joy, as we continue our work to support our local economy.”

MAGIC AFTERNOON: The Fungal Foragers in Dunorlan Park

By Archie Lawrence LAST Saturday, October 28, Keith Palmer hosted his annual Fungal Foray in Dunorlan Park. And although the wet weather meant lots of people stayed away from the event, six stalwarts braved the heavy showers to go mushroom hunting.

Varieties “Keith has been leading his Fungal Forays in Dunorlan for many years and never ceases to amaze thanks to his boundless knowledge of so many varieties of fungus, a lot of which are different on an annual basis,” commented one person at the event.

“Sadly, the weather was not really conducive for Keith’s foray but there was a lull in the

wind and rain so it could have been worse,” they added.

Those who did attend learned about some fascinating fungi, such as ‘The Miller’ – a white mushroom so named because it smells of flour.

Another attendee said: “Keith’s amazing knowledge on everything fungal came to the fore and a very interesting and informative time was had by all.”

Thomas Mansfield Solicitors strengthens its presence in Tunbridge Wells with a new office at 65 The High Street THOMAS Mansfield Solicitors, specialists in family law and wills and probate, is delighted to unveil their new office at 65 The High Street, Tunbridge Wells.

This latest expansion not only reinforces their physical presence in the heart of the town but also underlines their commitment to serving Tunbridge Wells' community. The new location complements their already established office on Mount Pleasant Road, ensuring clients have greater accessibility to their specialised services.

Reputation Having earned a reputation for their impeccable service and results-driven approach, Thomas Mansfield Solicitors has been the go-to firm for individuals and families in need of specialist legal guidance.

With family law matters, which involve deeply personal issues such as divorce, division of assets and arrangements for children, their team of solicitors approaches each case with sensitivity, understanding, and unparalleled professionalism. Additionally, in the intricate domain of wills and probate, their reputation for precision and meticulous care ensures that every client's wishes are both honoured and safeguarded.

“We are thrilled to reinforce our commitment to Tunbridge Wells with our second office, 65 The High Street,” said Neill Thomas, Managing Director at Thomas Mansfield Solicitors. He added, “With this new location, we're ensuring that more individuals can readily access our specialist services and expert advice. Tunbridge Wells, with its spirited community, deserves nothing less than our best."

Kate Rayner, Head of Family Law at Thomas

Mansfield Solicitors, said “Family matters touch the very heart of our lives and, as a Tunbridge Wells local, I deeply understand the nuances of our community." Kate added, "We’re here to guide, support, and stand by every individual navigating the often complex terrains of family law. Our doors, both old and new, are always open to those seeking expert counsel with a personal touch.”

The team at Thomas Mansfield Solicitors are looking forward to welcoming their clients and the wider community of Tunbridge Wells to 65 The High Street. A schedule of events is in production, but until then please feel free to drop in, meet the team and take a peek at their new space!

12

NEWS

National News

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Starmer calls for ‘humanitarian pause’ in Middle East conflict SIR Keir Starmer has said he understands calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, but argued it was not the ‘correct position’ at the moment.

The Labour leader was speaking in London, seeking to quell the growing tensions in his party over the conflict.

Mayors Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar and 15 frontbenchers are among those who have diverged from the official party line on the issue.

His comments came as a flurry of Israeli air strikes on a refugee camp near Gaza City levelled apartment buildings, leaving craters where they once stood, as ground troops battled Hamas militants across northern Gaza and attacked underground compounds.

Strikes Buoyed by the first successful rescue of a captive held by Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected calls for a ceasefire and again vowed to crush Hamas’s ability to govern Gaza or threaten Israel following its bloody October 7 rampage, which ignited the war.

Several hundred thousand Palestinians remain in the northern part of Gaza, where Israeli troops and tanks have reportedly advanced on several sides of Gaza City, the sprawling urban centre.

In the Jabaliya refugee camp on Gaza City’s outskirts, at least six air strikes destroyed a number of apartment blocks in a residential area, the Hamas-run Interior Ministry said.

It reported a large number of casualties but did not immediately provide details.

Footage of the scene from Al-Jazeera TV

NEWS IN BRIEF

XL bully dog ban Amber weather warnings as Storm Ciaran approaches

showed at least four large craters where buildings once stood, amid a large swathe of rubble surrounded by partially collapsed structures.

Dozens of rescue workers and bystanders dug through the wreckage, searching for survivors beneath the pancaked buildings.

A group of young men pulled two children from the upper floors of a damaged apartment block, cradling them as they climbed down.More than half the territory’s 2.3 million Palestinians have fled their homes, with hundreds of thousands sheltering in packed UN-run schools-turned-shelters or in hospitals alongside thousands of wounded patients.

Israeli strikes have hit closer to several northern hospitals in recent days, alarming medics.

Thousands of people broke into the UN’s aid warehouses over the weekend to take food, as supplies of basic goods have dwindled because of the Israeli siege.

There has been no central electricity in Gaza for weeks, and Israel has barred the entry of fuel needed to power emergency generators for hospitals and homes.

THE Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for much of the south coast of England on Thursday as Storm Ciaran threatens to batter parts of the country.

The forecaster warned that very strong northwesterly winds could disrupt travel and cause structural damage to buildings while flying debris could bring a danger to life.

Gusts are likely to reach 70mph-80mph in some areas and may exceed 85mph in a few of the most exposed English Channel coastal spots.Roads, bridges and railway lines may also close while trains and planes are at risk of delays.

The Met Office said there is also potential for large waves and beach material to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.

The amber weather warning for the South West of England and Pembrokeshire in Wales is in place from 3am to 1pm on Thursday. On the rest of the south coast of England, it is in place from 6am to 8pm on Thursday.

Yellow warnings for wind and rain are already in place across parts of the UK between Wednesday and Friday.

Met Office meteorologist Clare Nasir said Storm Ciaran was ‘likely to be a notch down’ in intensity from Storm Babet, but flooding could still occur because the ground is “so laden with water” and river levels “are at their highest”

American XL bully dogs will be banned from the end of the year, the Government has confirmed.

New rules due to come into force on December 31 will make it illegal to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, rehome, abandon or allow XL bully dogs to stray in England and Wales.

From New Year’s Eve, owners will also be required to muzzle the dogs under a law change laid in Parliament.

It will also be illegal to own an XL bully from February 1 2024 unless the animal is on an exempt list, called the Index of Exempted Dogs.

Firefighters to protest

Hundreds of firefighters and control staff will stage a protest today (Wednesday) amid warnings of the impact of spending cuts on jobs and response times.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) published a manifesto which calls for an ‘immediate injection of cash’ into the fire and rescue service.

The union said that as the country recovers from flooding and braces for the realities of climate change, politicians must listen to the voices of frontline firefighters if they want to avert ‘catastrophe’.

AI Word of the Year

The abbreviation of artificial intelligence (AI) has been named the Collins Word of the Year 2023.

The dictionary said AI, which it said means the “modelling of human mental functions by computer programs”, has become the dominant conversation of 2023.

Text generator ChatGPT was launched in November 2022 and there has been much debate about the use of the technology.

Come and join us for festive fun with your loved ones, friends & colleagues - we can cater for tables of two through to large group bookings.

Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday!

View our Christmas menus online or on our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages.

@TN1barkitchen T:01892 513900

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National News

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Cummings and Cain lay bare chaos of Tory Covid response TWO of Boris Johnson’s closest aides have laid bare the chaos and dysfunction in Government as coronavirus presented the biggest crisis the UK has seen since 1945.

Dominic Cummings told the official inquiry on Tuesday there was no shielding plan early in the pandemic and vulnerable groups were ‘appallingly neglected’ as a ‘fatalistic’ approach took hold.

Lee Cain, who was No 10’s director of communications, repeatedly cited Mr Johnson’s tendency to “oscillate” between decisions as delaying the response, which he said was the ‘wrong crisis’ for him to deal with as prime minister.

Erratic Mr Cummings, who was Mr Johnson’s top adviser, took aim at much of the Government during the “nightmare” of the pandemic as he gave evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.

Appearing in an unironed shirt, he had to apologise for calling ministers ‘useless f***pigs, morons, c****’ but said his language only ‘understated’ their competence.

He described the Cabinet Office as a ‘bomb site’ and a ‘dumpster fire’.

Mr Cain repeatedly cited Mr Johnson’s tendency to ‘oscillate’ between decisions as delaying the crisis response.

Top inquiry lawyer Hugo Keith KC asked Mr Cummings whether the trolley term was used to describe Mr Johnson’s propensity to change direction.

“Pretty much everyone called him a trolley, yeah,” Mr Cummings said.

Mr Cain, a long-term adviser to Mr Johnson who worked with him on the Brexit campaign, said his former boss’s erratic decision-making

REVEALING: Former chief adviser to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Dominic Cummings arrives to give a statement to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London Picture: James Manning/PA Wire was ‘rather exhausting’.

Messages between him and Mr Cummings showed them venting their frustrations on WhatsApp. ‘Get in here he’s melting down,’ Mr Cummings wrote on March 19 2020, days before the first lockdown, adding that Mr Johnson was ‘back to Jaws mode w***’.

Explaining the Jaws reference, Mr Cain told the inquiry that Mr Johnson would refer to the mayor from the Steven Spielberg film ‘who wanted to keep the beaches open’.

“I think he had a routine from previous in his career where he would use that as a joke from one of his after-dinner speeches,” he said.

“The mayor was right all along to keep the beaches open because it would have been a long-term harm to the community – so it’s a sort of sub-reference to that.”

Princess Leonor, Spain’s future queen, celebrated her 18th birthday yesterday by swearing an oath to the constitution at a formal ceremony in Madrid.

Picture: Casa de S.M el Rey – Palacio Real de Madrid, 31.10.2023

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We're thrilled to announce the opening of our second location in Tunbridge Wells at 65 The High Street.

With a reputation for impeccable service and a results-driven approach, we’re the first choice when it comes to sensitive family issues and complex wills and probate matters.

And we’re very excited to be strengthening our presence in the heart of town. Our new location focuses on client convenience and comes equipped with two comfortable and private consultation rooms.

65 The High Street sits perfectly alongside our existing office on Mount Pleasant Road, offering clients even more accessibility to our expert legal services.

Come and visit us!

We can’t wait to welcome you to 65 The High Street. We’re planning some special events in the coming weeks, but feel free to pop in anytime, meet the team and explore our new space.

Left to right: Kate Rayner - Head of Family Law, Neill Thomas - Managing Director and Angie Crush - Head of Employment Law.

Guiding you through life’s transitions with care and expertise.

01892 337540 | familylaw@thomasmansfield.co.uk | tmfamilylaw.co.uk

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COMMENT

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Mike Martin Liberal Democrats

Mike Martin is the prospective Liberal Democrat MP for the Tunbridge Wells constituency. He is a former army officer, a Senior Fellow at King’s College London, and the author of multiple books

The Tories damaged the NHS – the Lib Dems are ready to fix it I SPEND two days a week knocking on doors and listening to voters – by far the favourite part of my week, and one from which my wife says I come back energised and excited. Despite the long days – come rain or shine – it is an honour for people to share their hopes, dreams, fears and frustrations with me. This – literally – is what galvanises me and drives me to want to be an MP: to solve problems and make our country better.

these long-standing issues ahead of the next General Election.

Firstly, we would reform the NHS constitution to create a right to see your GP within seven days, or 24 hours if urgent, making it the responsibility of both the health service and Government to ensure this happens.

‘Overall, there are fewer GPs locally than in 2016 despite Conservative promises in 2019 to recruit more’

Incompetent Something that repeatedly comes up is getting a GP appointment. For some, desperate to see their doctor, the wait is long. Others give up entirely. For those who can afford it, they go private. None of these outcomes are satisfactory and it is a damning indictment of this incompetent and tired government that the basics don’t work.

Overall, there are fewer GPs locally than in 2016 despite Conservative promises in 2019 to recruit more. Because of that, local GPs are looking after 400 more patients than the average in England leading to the ratio of patients to GPs being among the highest in the country. So this is why people tell me it takes several weeks to get an appointment with their doctor.

At the other end of the healthcare system, there is a long-running crisis in social care, which the Conservatives have repeatedly failed

to tackle despite their 13 years in Government.

Our analysis indicates that there are more than 4,000 unfilled social care vacancies in Kent alone. Each individual case puts great strain on individuals and families, but in practical terms, many people are stuck in hospitals when they ought to be discharged and cared for at home.

It is clear to me that the Conservatives have done a great deal of damage to the NHS. These basics are so important to everyone’s ability to get on with their lives healthily, and economically and socially active.

The Liberal Democrats have already announced their main policies for tackling

Secondly, we would introduce free homebased care for all so that people who can be discharged from hospital, but still need some care, can be discharged. We would couple this with the introduction of a carer’s minimum wage – £2 on top of the national minimum wage – to increase the recruitment and retention of a skilled workforce. Both of these policies – fully costed in our manifesto when it comes out – will lead to enormous savings in NHS costs due to huge reductions in bed-blocking by people who would otherwise be discharged.

It is only by getting these basics right that we can ever hope to live in a better country.

A functioning healthcare system means more people in work contributing to the economy and to the country.

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18 LETTERS

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

And another thing…

Dear Editor...

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you.

You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or you can write to the Editor, Times of Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG

Pedestrians must have priority In your edition of October 18, John Pearce bemoans what he describes as TWBC's fixation on punishing the motorist. The fact is, though, that the council treats another group of road users rather worse, by neglect if not by design.

This is the group of pedestrians. (i) Brick pavements are an attractive feature of Tunbridge Wells. They must, however, be properly looked after. Because they are not maintained, there ar large numbers of uneven, broken and loose bricks. Uneven and broken bricks create a real trip hazard. Loose bricks allow accumulation of rainwater underneath so that stepping on them causes a jet of water to shoot up your leg. (ii) Drivers are allowed to park on the pavements obstucting them, a problem particularly for wheelchair users or anyone pushing a pram. (If I did not know better, I could deduce that there to be a new paragraph in the Highway Code obliging drivers to park on the pavement wherever there are double yellow lines.) Vehicles parked on the pavement, of course, cause even more damage to the bricks. (iii) Property owners, and this includes the council itself, get away with hedges and shrubs narrowing the pavement, sometimes to less than half its original width. Together with

vehicles or dustbins on the pavement, this often makes it necessary to walk in the roadway, an obviously dangerous practice. (iv) Inadequate road sweeping often results in streams a metre or more wide running down the road whenever it rains hard. This seems to encourage those poor punished motorists to drive through the stream at speed, creating a substantial bow wave to drench the unfortunate pedestrian.

I have had many conversations with local residents on this matter and have met with almost universal agreement. None of the issues I have raised would cost local Council Tax payers very much money. All of us use the pavements at some time and the council must recognise this and ensure that Tunbridge Wells is a pleasant and safe place to walk.

Ian White Tunbridge Wells

Government cuts

Mr Clark claims in his comment piece (25 October) credit for addressing the anti social behaviour problem generated by a relatively small number of young people.

The solution put forward by Mr Clark includes more police on patrol and action by the Council.

We used to have more police on patrol. Which government cut police funding, forcing the cuts in police numbers?

We used to have local authority funded youth clubs and other youth activities such as sports provision. Which government has cut local authority funding year on year so that LA’s now struggle to provide crumbling essential services, let alone take on new responsibilities?

Meanwhile we struggle to find NHS dental services and get medical appointments because of government unwillingness over the years to fund and manage these crucial services adequately.

John Telling

Reject personalised attacks – Do the best for RTW

Personalised attacks (such as by misters Hayward & Rands, Times of TW 25th Oct) are usually evoked when the writer has nothing useful to state about the subject and attack the person instead. It is hardly a way to encourage others to be involved with the Council or politics in general. Such attacks have purely a political aim and not one to do the best for our town and Borough.

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As with most things, ‘luck’ improves the harder one tries and establishes a firm basis – as has been done by previous Leaders in TWBC – quality staff, strong finances, freehold ownership of RVP, emphasis on improving footfall in RTW – the same as in the previous Calverley project. Providing strength and depth trying to do the best for our town.

During the four months I managed the Calverley project, I was primarily interested in getting clarity and dialogue through an independent group organised by the Town Forum. I also set up a cross-party group.

Purchased modern public engagement tools.

We found commercial companies willing to manage each component of the project. We also looked to break out each to simplify and evaluate them individually, potentially eliminating the contentious car park – with which I personally was most uncomfortable.

Firm quotes for construction materials and exceedingly low fixed interest rates were obtained and promised external financing.

However the political opposition, using scare tactics, demanded complete cancellation, not discussion – ‘throwing out the baby with the bath water’ – ignoring the potential of increasing the number of people who could be attracted to RTW to also use the many other businesses in our town and not addressing the inherent problems of the Assembly Hall.

These actions show professional capability, by me and others – but not in Mr Rand’s professional training in ‘enemy intelligence and deception’. All projects can always be ‘improved’ and risks reduced, particularly with hindsight.

Let’s stick to clear debate, discussion and engagement with residents about rejuvenating RTW and not playing politics.

David Scott Prev Deputy Leader

‘What do they know that British Land doesn’t?’

What concerns me about TWBC’s purchase of

LETTERS 19

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

the Royal Victoria Place shopping complex is that British Land, the immediate past owners and no slouches when it comes to having their finger on this particular pulse, are getting out, but the council, whose competence in land deals could be written on a postage stamp with an 8B pencil, sees an investment opportunity.

What do they know that British Land doesn’t?

Mike Pearson Tunbridge Wells

What’s the strategy for RVP?

The British Land website shows its strategy as concentrating on two key areas: Campuses and Retail & Fulfilment. Retail is further defined as being focused on retail parks which complement the growth of online. RVP does not appear to fit with this strategy.

In 2015, Hermes, the property subsidiary of the BT Pension Fund, owned the RVP leasehold and was proposing a big investment which included an eight screen cinema and various family friendly eateries. In early 2018, the Pension Fund needed cash and announced a new strategy which no longer included retail.

Hence Hermes abandoned all thought of investment and had to secure a sale as quickly as possible.

Given its current strategy, one can understand that British Land would want to sell RVP. From reading the property pages of national newspapers it seems that property companies currently have no interest in purchasing in-town shopping malls. Hence British Land’s only realistic prospect of selling the leasehold was to the freeholder, TWBC. This put the council in a very strong negotiating position. I await with interest to learn how good a deal it was able to achieve.

Looking to the future, I hope TWBC has studied the financial newspapers and Private Eye so it does not make the disastrous property transactions that several other councils have achieved.

Brian Lippard Tunbridge Wells

PEPPY SAYS...

Attack on drivers

So the Liberal attack on drivers continues with the announcement of another car park being put up for sale; something which the Teal ‘Lib Dem’ Deputy Mayor has had a tendency to suggest was misinformation or a ‘conspiracy theory’, which is also his de facto response to anyone raising concerns regarding restricting motorists.

The ex-leader of the Alliance has also called it misinformation, but his new venture makes him surplus to requirement anyway.

Local Dom Pérignon socialist Hugo Pound also called Conservative Nasir Jamil a liar over this in his election.

I imagine the next step the Liberals and Teal Libs (yes, I lump the majority of the Alliance hence Teal in that category) will be to have every road in Tunbridge Wells permit holders only.

Aaron Brand (Conservative)

Penalty fares

One Saturday I stood outside of Cote at approx.

13.30 and in the space of 2 repeat 2 minutes I observed five cars turn from Church Rd and into MP road! Of the five cars two were being driven by seemingly OAPs and a third contained two young children. I almost felt like stepping into the road and pointing out the new restrictions (Unfortunately for them I didn’t).

I just wonder how they must feel when the

penalty notices drop into their letterboxes! The warning signs just do not appear to be at all clear and of course TWBC reaps in the rewards!

So sad for the drivers!!

J Knightingale Tunbridge Wells

Missed hospital appointments

Having been waiting for my latest Appliance department hospital appointment since June, imagine my surprise when I received a telephone call from the Appliance Department at MTW NHS Trust to ask whether I still want to be on their list as I failed to attend last week.

The reason I failed to attend was because I didn’t receive the letter informing me of my appointment.

Having spoken to the lady in the department it seems everyone booked for the clinic failed to attend as Royal Mail haven’t delivered the letters.

I spoke to a postman the other week and he said they only deliver to some roads in Tunbridge Wells about once or twice a week as it’s not worth their while.

Obviously the Universal Service is no longer valid How can people be expected to attend urgent appointments when those who are given the job to deliver such items aren’t able to understand the importance Chris Jeffery Tunbridge Wells

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Letters printed on these pages do not reflect the views of the Times of Tunbridge Wells. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter if too long.

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

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Local News

EDUCATION

Local MP judges heated AI debate during Tunbridge Wells school’s STEAM week

21

Rose Hill School welcomed a number of guests during its recent science, technology, engineering and maths week, including Greg Clark MP who witnessed pupils explore the world of artificial intelligence...

ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping the lives of children and, as part of their recent STEAM week, the pupils of Rose Hill School in Tunbridge Wells delved into all aspects of this transformative technology.

Throughout the week, pupils explored its diverse capabilities, from natural language processing to image and speech recognition.

Although the potential for AI to positively impact education became evident, pupils also contemplated ethical questions such as whether children should use AI for homework, the net impact of AI on society, and the prospect of AI replacing teachers.

FUTURE INTELLIGENCE: Greg Clark with pupils and staff at Rose Hill School

Concepts STEAM week is a popular whole-school affair.

Pre-Prep pupils created their own AI robots, exploring simple algorithms, and programming blue bots for various tasks. They also explored mathematical concepts of sequences, patterns, and algebra then delved into serialism and computer-generated music.

Meanwhile, pupils in the Prep School, assisted

by STEAM scholars, trained machine learning models to recognise text, numbers, and images.

The school welcomed inspiring guests to shed light on the role of AI beyond the classroom.

Dr Hajian, with over two decades of experience in designing solutions and platforms, offered insights into the inner workings of AI systems, comparing the human brain to its computational counterpart. He also fielded a barrage of questions from an

enthralled audience at his ‘AI drop-in clinic’.

Mrs Cradick, an award-winning senior communications professional, led workshops utilising Google Bard, showcasing the immediate impact of AI-driven creativity as pupils saw their story ideas materialise on screen within seconds.

The week culminated in a visit from another notable guest, local MP Greg Clark, who used his experience working within the Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee and years of heated exchanges in Parliament to judge the Inter-House debate.

His fellow judges were Nevil Phillips, a distinguished barrister and Chair of Governors,

‘We were delighted to have the Rt Hon Greg Clark visit Rose Hill School to support our AI Debating Competition. He used his experience of years of heated exchanges in Parliament to judge the debate’ and the Head, Emma Neville, who thanked Mr Clark for sharing his time and expertise.

“We were delighted to have the Rt Hon Greg

Clark visit Rose Hill School to support our AI Debating Competition. Pupils debated the potential for AI to become the next generation of educators, to engage in nuanced, structured discourse, pushing the boundaries of humanmachine collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

“Mr Clark spoke enthusiastically about the importance of AI and its role in society.”

An inspiring and engaging week gave all Rose Hill pupils an insight into how they can harness the power of AI but also how crucial the skills of creativity and critical thinking will be for them to thrive alongside Artificial Intelligence in future.

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

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Look ahead to a positive 2o24

Local News

PROPERTY

23

The local property market is bucking national trends and remains robust, says Suzanne Johnson of KMJ Property…

FLAWED PROBATE PROPERTY SALES SYSTEM NEEDS CHANGING

AT KMJ Property, we’ve always taken pride in serving the communities of Kent and East Sussex, offering high-level estate agency services in this lovely and highly desirable part of the country.

We understand that the property market may be experiencing a slight slowdown, but we believe it’s essential to maintain a positive perspective and provide you with an accurate picture of the local market dynamics.

In 2023, our region remains a coveted destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and modern convenience.

As we’ve discovered through our partnership with OnTheMarket.com, the demand for properties in Kent and East Sussex is still high, and while prices may have seen a minor dip, the overall market remains robust.

of our region. The stability of our area, combined with its attractive attributes, ensures that the decrease in property values has been limited.

As per OnTheMarket.com, prices have seen only a modest decrease, reflecting the overall confidence in the real estate market.

The steady demand for homes In spite of the somewhat slower pace in the property market, the demand for homes in our region has not wavered.

Data from OnTheMarket.com reveals that the number of registered buyers in Kent and East Sussex is still notable. The charm of our picturesque landscapes, vibrant communities, and excellent connectivity to London and beyond continues to attract prospective homeowners.

Celebrating success at KMJ Property In the midst of these market conditions, KMJ Property is delighted to share some exceptional news. We were recently honoured with the esteemed Gold award at the British Property Awards, marking the second year in a row that we’ve been recognised for our dedication and excellence in serving our community.

Additionally, we won the title of ‘Best in the Postcode’ at the ESTAs awards, which underscores our commitment to providing top-tier customer service. We are eagerly looking forward to attending the EA Masters event in November, where we anticipate further opportunities for growth and learning in the real estate industry. Our team continues to strive for excellence, focusing on innovative approaches and customer satisfaction.

Price resilience While it is true that the local property market has seen a slight reduction in prices, this drop is comparatively minimal, thanks to the enduring appeal

A positive outlook At KMJ Property, we firmly believe in the enduring appeal of Kent and East Sussex. Our commitment to serving our

community and our consistent industry recognition is a testament to our dedication to providing the best services for our clients. For those considering buying or selling property in this picturesque part of the country, now is a good time to make your move.

The market may be slower, but the foundations for success are still in place. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you achieve your property goals in our beautiful region.

In the face of changing market dynamics, KMJ Property continues to shine, and we’re excited to be part of the journey in Kent and East Sussex’s vibrant property landscape.

For further information, visit: kmjproperty.co.uk

COAC H TOU R TO S COTLAND

As a nation of homeowners, property is often included in an estate when someone sadly passes. Deborah Richards, Managing Partner of Maddisons Residential, argues that the probate system – the legal process to deal with the deceased’s assets – places stress on grieving families and raises tax implications that all homeowners should be aware of.

HMRC’s advice is that you should not sell such a property until probate is granted, as the courts oversee the process to ensure that the deceased person’s assets are distributed correctly, and this can take several months or even years, depending on the complexity of the estate.

However, waiting is not without implications. Many estates will have an inheritance tax liability which is due by the end of the sixth month after the person died. This can be paid over yearly instalments for certain assets that do take time to sell, like property; but when a property cannot be sold because probate has not yet been granted, this can put real pressure on the estate.

With such delays, buyers can be nervous of making an offer on a property in probate, uncertain on when the sale will be able to complete.

Equally, the property remains a further burden for the estate, which will need to maintain, heat, insure and care for it until it is passed to its new owners.

HMRC recently introduced a new computer system intended to streamline and expediate the probate process. However, recent feedback has been that unless an estate is very simple, it has actually caused greater delays.

There is no doubt in my mind that more needs to be done to speed up the process and change is needed to reduce the stress placed on a grieving family when inheritance tax must be paid, but hands are tied in being able to sell the assets. To me, it’s a flawed system that bereaved families need addressing.

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Arts

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

The stage is set for an eclectic mix of shows coming up at Trinity Theatre

This Friday (November 3) Trinity Theatre hosts composer Chris Green, who has created a spine-tingling sonic soundtrack to the classic silent movie masterpiece Nosferatu. The next day the arts venue welcomes comedian Simon Evans (November 4) when he brings his one-man stand-up show, Have We Met? to the stage. The Times finds out more about each event…

I

f you’re not done with spooks and ghouls quite yet, then how about heading over to Trinity Theatre this coming Friday, November 3, to hear a brand-new live score to the silent movie Nosferatu. It is widely believed that the film – made in 1922 – gave birth to the horror genre.

Notable as the first cinematic interpretation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Nosferatu’s combination of expressionistic acting and unforgettable images render it just as powerful and unsettling today as when it first thrilled cinemagoers 100 years ago.

HAUNTING: Chris Green has created a new soundtrack for Nosferatu

Iconic Chris Green’s new score was commissioned

by English Heritage for a live outdoor screening of the film at Dracula’s spiritual home of Whitby Abbey – and it promises to be just as spine-tingling in another holy setting: that of Trinity Theatre.

The music is a haunting blend of electronic and acoustic instruments, all of which will be performed live by the composer. And, combined with FW Murnau’s iconic images, this event is sure to make for a genuinely remarkable and unique cinematic experience.

Chris Green was born into a musical family in Coventry, and he began playing guitar at the

age of eight, and piano from the age of nine. He now plays most instruments boasting fretted strings or keys.

Largely self-taught, Chris has worked in a variety of musical genres including folk, theatre and early music. He’s a regular musician at Shakespeare’s Globe and was also one of the musicians on BBC’s Poldark, appearing in series 1 and 2. He also writes and composes, having adapted The Wind in the

Willows (2017) for GreenMatthews as well as A Christmas Carol: In Concert (2018), which London Theatre Reviews described as ‘A delightful show…a lively retelling’.

In 2018, he released his first solo album Switched-On Playford, which fuses 17th-century dance music with electronica, using a blend of early instruments, synths and loops.

It was described by fRoots magazine as:

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Two days later. on Saturday November 4, comedian Simon Evans arrives at Trinity Theatre with his Have We Met? show.

After finally solving the mystery of his existence and true identity in Work of the Devil, Simon finds that he has still not overcome the more daily challenges of remembering what he came upstairs for, who these grown-ups are that live with him (and what they have done with his children) and how can that footage be from 2009, when he only bought those shoes a few months ago?

“In Greek mythology, the Muses were the daughters of Mnemosyne, goddess of memory – though ironically, there is no easy way to remember her name,” explains Simon.

“But Memory was thus clearly regarded by the ancient Greeks as the mother of the arts, wellspring of inspiration, the compost in which imagination takes roots.

“Our last defence against tyranny, the consolation of the just and the seat of the soul.

Without memory, the illusion of self crumbles.

Mine, however, is shot. So where does that leave me?” To find out make sure you book your tickets for Saturday…

For further information and tickets for these events, visit: trinitytheatre.net

Arts

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Putting a creative spin on retail…

Picture: Phil Wey Photography

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

25

expanded further. In June 2023 it decided to set up an un-associated Company – the TWells Creative Arts Collective – and held its first AGM and voted in its members. Public Liability Insurance has since been taken out as a group and every member has a role and duties to perform– from marketing and finance, to rota management and interior design.

Clare Summons Glass

Jewels of the Sea

A new arts collective will be showcasing its creative endeavours at Royal Victoria Place in the lead-up to Christmas. The Times finds out more about this pop-up, which organisers say will be very popular THREE Years ago, Nicky Blanchard CEO at Royal Victoria Place (RVP) offered a group of local artists a spacious unit in Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells for six weeks over the run-up to Christmas.

The idea was to create a space for artists of all mediums to showcase their work. In addition to exhibiting aesthetic items including ceramics, jewellery, paintings and photography, there was

also fused glass and textiles on display, too.

And, despite Covid and the recession, the group had two successful Christmas periods.

“Customers want something different and being produced locally by the people who can explain their process is an added bonus,” said Suzy Phillips who has been involved in the collective’s journey from the start.

Fast forward three years and the group has

Wes Grove Raku Ceramics

The new collective will open its next Pop-Up shop on Saturday November 11 in Royal Victoria Place. The site of the shop will be on the second floor.

“Everything on sale will have been made by the 14 members who will be present, sharing the manning of the shop and they will be available to talk about their work to customers,” explained Suzy.

“Shoppers have already been asking RVP staff if we are returning as we have proved to be a great addition and a real help sourcing gifts!”

TWells Creative Arts will be open daily from November 11 to December 23 in line with RVP opening hours.

“Our lovely venue will showcase a fabulous range of artwork including ceramics, fused glass, silver, gold and natural stone jewellery, paintings, photography and textiles.

“And the unit will be dressed for Christmas adding a little extra sparkle to RVP’s own Christmas décor,” Suzy added.

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Food & Drink

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

The dos and don’ts of decanting wine Have you ever wondered when you should – or shouldn’t – decant wine? Local wine retailer Paul Adams of Fine Wines of Mayfield, who also has a new shop located in Royal Victoria Place, helps you navigate the rules of pouring…

T

here are four key benefits to decanting wine, so let’s have a little look at something that is far more than just a ritual.

The extent to which you should decant a wine depends on the type of wine, its age, and personal preferences. Young, bold red wines might benefit from more aeration, while delicate or older wines should be decanted more gently to avoid disturbing the sediment.

1. Aeration: It allows the wine to come into contact with oxygen, which can help it open up and develop its aromas and flavours, especially in younger wines. This process is often called ‘letting the wine breathe’. The physical action of pouring the wine from the bottle to the decanter exposes the wine to the air and the decanter

Flavours

‘The extent to which you should decant a wine depends on the type of wine, its age, and personal preferences’ should have a greater surface area than the neck of the original bottle all of which allows for the wine and oxygen to interact. But, too much oxygen can be the enemy of wine so don’t decant too early and leave it exposed for too long. From 20 minutes to two hours for reds depending on the wine, and up to 30 minutes for white and rose wines 2. Separation: Decanting can help separate the wine from any sediment that may have formed in the bottle, especially in older red wines. This ensures a clearer and more pleasant drinking experience. So always decant the wine steadily

and carefully so as not to disturb the sediment.

3. Temperature: It can bring the wine to the ideal serving temperature, as the wine in the bottle may be slightly cooler than the room temperature. If the wine has come straight from

a cool cellar or equivalent, the barrier of the cool glass of the bottle will slow the warming.

4. Presentation: Decanting wine is often done for the aesthetic appeal, enhancing the visual experience of wine tasting.

All reds will benefit from decanting so just try it and see if you agree. Whereas decanting white wines is less common, typically you might consider decanting for aged whites, oaked whites which can benefit from aeration to soften and intense oak influences or complex whites, where the aromas and flavours may benefit from decanting to release their full potential.

When decanting white wine it should be done gently to avoid excessive aeration.

Double Decanting is an interesting refinement to serving wine where you decant the wine swill the original bottle out to get rid of the sediment and then pour the wine back into the bottle. The double pouring will aerate the wine more immediately and thus sitting in the bottle with a narrow neck is quite appropriate.

This allows the wine to be served in its original bottle so everyone can see what is being served, or as I’ve sometimes suspected, it might encourage the unscrupulous to keep old bottles so they can to pretend that they are serving Chateau Petrus when they are not! pauladamsfinewines.co.uk

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Food & Drink

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Reduce menopause symptoms by eating healthily and exercising regularly to achieve a happier you

M

ost women don’t even know the symptoms they are experiencing are menopause symptoms, even after going to their GP about it.

Only just last month did research show that in a group of 2,000 women, only 12 per cent were diagnosed as being in perimenopause by a health professional – and most of the rest had to self-diagnose themselves with the condition.

With such a vast array of possible symptoms, usually starting in your early forties (sometimes late thirties) it is not uncommon for women to just ‘get on with it’, not really knowing why they feel the way they do whether it’s physically, mentally, emotionally, or all three.

So what are the symptoms to look out for and why do they happen?

Perimenopause is not linear, the shifts in hormones over this period of (usually) around 10 years can be quite erratic – especially from our good friend oestrogen. While progesterone and testosterone start to decline steadily, oestrogen tends to jump around, one minute being sky high and the next being rock bottom. It is a combination of these patterns of hormone imbalance that can cause unwanted symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, heavy periods, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, trouble sleeping, headaches/migraines, depression, low libido, joint pain, itchy skin… Unfortunately, the list goes on.

What about weight gain, and why is it around the middle section?

One of the biggest concerns I hear from women is the weight gain around the abdominal section, and a loss in muscle mass. The weight gain tends to be very stubborn and may not respond to diets and exercise like it may have done in their twenties and thirties. This can be very upsetting

‘One of the biggest concerns I hear from women is weight gain around the abdominal section, but the important thing to understand is that it can be improved’ and can feel like an impossible feat to get rid of it.

The important thing to understand is that it can be improved, but it needs to be tackled in the right way. The reason this extra weight often appears on the mid-section is due to the decline in sex hormones impacting other hormones which help regulate energy usage. Two of the main hormones in question here are insulin and cortisol.

Reduced oestrogen can lead to insulin resistance, meaning more sugar in the bloodstream, which can cause weight gain.

Oestrogen also helps regulate cortisol levels, so

Picture: Ursula Armstrong

Daisy Tappenden of Tap Into Your Health is a registered nutritional therapist and personal trainer from Tunbridge Wells. Here, she offers expert advice on how to nourish yourself through the menopause and suggests handy tips on how to minimise common symptoms…

when oestrogen starts to lower, cortisol starts to rise. This rise in cortisol causes the body to release glucose for energy, but when this energy isn’t used it is laid down as fat.

So how can menopause symptoms be reduced?

There are so many ways to reduce menopause symptoms, here are a few recommendations…

Eat protein with every meal/snack. Protein helps stabilise blood sugar by blunting the absorption of carbohydrates/sugars. Protein breaks down into glucose more slowly than carbohydrate so the effect of protein on blood glucose and insulin levels can occur gradually.

Cruciferous vegetables. When chewed or cut, a compound called indole-3-carbinol is released from crucifers which binds to oestrogen metabolites and aids their excretion from the body.

Eliminate/reduce alcohol. Research shows women who do not drink alcohol have much fewer menopause symptoms, and have much less

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For general enquiries call Polly on: 07824 359169 Clive Attrell is Kent County Council Trading Standards Approved: Reg No 15618

TAP INTO YOUR HEALTH: Daisy Tappenden, nutritional therapist, personal trainer, and founder of Tap Into Your Health. After experiencing her own hormonal imbalance, Daisy specialises in nutrition and lifestyle for hormonal conditions, including menopause, fertility, PCOS, menstrual irregularities and weight loss. tapintoyour.health Info@tapintoyour.health @tapintoyourhealth

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risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, liver disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer.

SIT training. You may have heard of HIIT, but even better for perimenopause is SIT (sprint interval training) – this means very short, sharp 10- to 30-second exercise at max effort with short breaks. SIT provides metabolic stimulus to trigger changes in body composition by reducing fat and increasing lean muscle. Women aged 47 to 59 who did 20 minutes of SIT training three times a week for eight weeks lost fat, regained muscle and increased aerobic fitness by 12 per cent.

Weight training. Everyone loses muscle as they age, however due to oestrogen loss, women need to pay even closer attention to picking up the weights to increase bone mineral density. When oestrogen is less, the ability to regenerate muscle stem cells can drop 30 to 60 per cent, and bone mineral density reduces by around 10 per cent in menopause.

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30

Health & Wellbeing

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

The art of letting go In her regular feature, Times wellbeing guide Lucy Parker, from Flow Tunbridge Wells shares some wisdom about how and why we should learn to let go…

A

utumn is the perfect time to take a leaf out of nature’s book and begin to let go of things that no longer serve you. The saying, ‘the trees are showing us just how beautiful it is to let go’ is an interesting change of perspective from the old adage that ‘letting go is hard to do’.

So, just why and what would we want to let go of and how?

Let’s face it, we all hold on to things that we either overtly know we no longer need, or we simply can’t bear the idea of not holding on to.

That might be something as simple as that designer handbag you treasured in your twenties or your very first tailored suit. It might be tangible ‘stuff’ that’s cluttering up your house, full of nostalgia but very little else. Sometimes, these things can be hard to discard, even if they no longer fit you or are using up a vast amount of storage space.

Other things we hold onto can be harder to shed. They might be thoughts, feelings, or

EXTRACT FROM THE POEM ‘SHE LET GO’ BY SAFIRE ROSE She let go of all of the memories that held her back.

She let go of all of the anxiety that kept her from moving forward.

She let go of the planning and all of the calculations about how to do it just right.

internal dialogues. Let’s take a grudge for example. If you were wronged, hurt, or wounded you’re most likely holding onto that memory, perhaps from decades ago. I wonder how that baggage feels to carry around with you? Are you even aware you’re doing it and what advantage does it offer you? Yes, I mean that, what does scratching that wound do for you? We’re all hard-wired for survival so sometimes we unconsciously hold onto some of our most painful memories just to keep us vigilant, to stay alert. Makes sense, and yet that holding on also takes its toll and there’s wisdom and growth in forgiveness.

Habits can be wonderfully powerful in their ability to build and then stay put. A habit, whether healing or wounding, can be tricky to shift because it’s so familiar. We begin to befriend our habits just because they stick around and it’s easier to embrace than question.

Take a moment to make a short list of some of your habits. This might be harder than you think as often our habits lurk in our subconscious and try to stay there. Let’s take your morning routine, do you drink your tea out of the same mug, sitting on the same chair, while listening to your favourite radio station? Maybe so, and that may be a conscious choice, to enhance your sense of well-being and calm. What if we flip that to the evening routine, the same bottle of wine, watching the same TV show, with that familiar sense of exhaustion and lethargy? Now the habit is less healthy and perhaps it’s time to address

that and free yourself a little from its grip.

Much of the work around the art of letting go begins with recognising when we’re plugged into the autopilot part of our brain. Here we can stay stuck in old, unhelpful, or potentially destructive patterns. Learning to see the wood for the trees is a hugely rewarding and valuable practice and one we’re going to explore next time when I share the joy of ‘R.A.I.N.’ Lucy Parker, Coach, Counsellor, and Senior Yoga Teacher Flow Tunbridge Wells flowtunbridgewells.com

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Wednesday November 1 | 2023

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FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…

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our November edition of take place in the upper town and SO magazine is out now!

Camden Road from 4.30pm til 7pm And as the festive season and then on November 17 it will be will soon be upon us, we the High Street and Chapel Place’s thought we’d shine a turn followed by The Pantiles’ on spotlight on what is going on for November 18.

Christmas here in Tunbridge Wells.

So why not give our local With the support of RTW Together retailers and restaurateurs the best BID the magazine will focus on Christmas present by supporting ‘What’s On’ for the holiday season them this festive season? but when you pick up your free Talking of Christmas, elsewhere copy you will see it’s been done so in the November issue we have in a fun way another courtesy of the fabulous gift ‘In your November beautiful Advent guide which edition you have the style calendar features a that RTW number of local chance to give your Together has independent favourite local retailers retailers, plus created especially lots of mouthand restaurateurs the for 2023. best Christmas present watering In it, you will menus to by supporting them this peruse in case get a sneak peek at the various you’re looking festive season’ spots around to get out of town that are your kitchen putting on festive events and the when getting together with friends establishments that have created and family over the festive season. delicious seasonal menus for With a look ahead to what’s on at November and December. some of our brilliant local events There’s also lots of info on The spaces for the month ahead plus Big Reveal, which has tripled in all your favourite local experts on size for this year. Described by RTW health, lifestyle and wellbeing, we Together as ‘the ultimate Christmas think you’ll agree this month’s event’ it offers fun-filled early edition is another great read! evening events for the whole family SO magazine is available at to enjoy. Expect carols, live music, various pick-up points in a visit from Santa Claus, special Tunbridge Wells and also guests, festive food and drink as online at: well as multiple light switch-ons and the biggest window reveal ever! timeslocalnews.co.uk/ On November 16 the event will so-magazine-digital

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34

Antiques

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

Lots to admire at our November auction This month’s sale at Bentley’s features a world of exotic treasures says Nick Hall…

ONE of the great joys of being an auctioneer and valuer is the fascinating and eclectic diversity of the wonderous objects and collections I come across for our auctions – and this month hasn’t disappointed.

We have just taken delivery of a shipment from Switzerland – a lifetime collection of African art with in excess of 150 items. Objects range from a 5-foot high bronze figure seated on a throne to smaller wooden figures and masks you could hold in one hand. The market for African tribal art is global, with the main centres being London, New York and Paris – and now Cranbrook!

OUT OF AFRICA: Nick with a selection of African tribal art

Flavian ‘Mambo’ Demarigny (b.1969), a beautifully-crafted Queen Anne walnut bureau, (c.1710). We also have some 18th- and 19th-century walnut, mahogany and pine furniture to give your home a warm country house feeling, as well as a very cool and collectable 20th-century leather sofa by De Sede, and other ‘on trend’ mid-century furniture.

For ceramics enthusiasts there’s a Meissen porcelain model of Greyhounds by Otto Pilz, and a huge single-owner collection of 18th- and 19th-century English porcelain, including a large quantity of New Hall pieces. There are also two, finely-painted 19th-century Russian icons, a private collection of jewellery, lots of silver, and all manner of rare, collectable, decorative and quirky items for you to marvel over and bid on.

The auction in Cranbrook is this Saturday (November 4). See you there!

The online catalogue is available to view at: bentleysfineartauctioneers.co.uk

International Prices will start at under a hundred pounds for some of the later, minor pieces, while rarer pieces in the collection are expected to reach greater heights once the live international internet bidders start flexing their muscles.

As far as I am aware, the current world record for a piece of African tribal art at auction is the Senufo female figure carved by the ‘Master of Sikasso’, an anonymous artist working in Burkina Faso at the end of the 19th century and into the early 20th century, which sold for a staggering $12million in 2014, I’m keeping my fingers crossed we’ve got the pair to it...

Other items of interest in this sale of 800-900 lots, is a fine and highly desirable Chinese silk robe from the late-18th/early-19th century, a rare piece of Chinese modern art by Hu Yongkai (Chinese, b.1945) bought in a Singapore gallery’s selling exhibition and complete with the original catalogue and invoice. There are also some fine 18th- and 19th-century British and European paintings from local country houses, a collection of modern art by the Chilean-French artist

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Travel

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

37

A world of discovery for the year ahead From undiscovered beaches and bargain luxury breaks, to the latest foodie hot spots, Imy Brighty-Potts looks at what’s trending in travel for 2024…

W

Water-centric travel From beaches and rivers to lakes and hot springs, being by the water will be important for 2024’s travellers.

Almost three-quarters of UK travellers (74 per cent) of travellers agree that being close to water instantly makes them feel more relaxed, according to the report.

This could make destinations like Albania’s Balkan coast and the onsen (hot springs) of Japan hugely popular over the next year.

sunshine and beaches, but 43 per cent of travellers want to use their trips to enjoy cooler climes in 2024. Chilly city breaks could become far more popular with the UK’s travellers – looking to cool off as we become used to temperatures climbing at home.

Destinations like Valkenburg in the Netherlands are perfect for a winter break, as are spots like Chemnitz, Germany and Salzburg, Austria.

All pictures: Alamy/PA

ith 2024 fast approaching, some exciting changes to the way we travel could be on the horizon.

Looking back to 2023, Ryan Pearson, Booking.com’s Regional Manager, said the biggest trend was the ‘return of travel’.

“While the cost of living and budgets were front of mind for many, travellers continued to prioritise their trips, whether that was to truly relax in nature with an ‘off-grid’ getaway, or a luxury wellness retreat to recentre the mind,” he told the PA news agency.

Despite the cost-of-living crisis, it would seem like people are still desperate to see the world, as revealed in a new report from Booking.com.

“Almost three-quarters (71 per cent) of holidaymakers from the UK told us that they feel more alive than ever when on vacation, with 65 per cent wanting to be more like the version they see of themselves on holiday, in their day-to-day life back home,” Pearson said.

Here are some of the top travel trends that Booking.com predicts will be on the rise in 2024…

Albania Luxe-for-less Many people may want a stunning, luxury Maldives escape, but with the current economic climate leaving us with less in the bank, it’s not always possible.

The report suggests 43 per cent of UK travellers will be searching for luxe-for-less copycat holidays to reduce costs in 2024.

Ways to bring down holiday costs could include paying for a day pass to use the amenities at a five-star hotel – rather than actually staying there – and 48 per cent of parents say they are planning to take their kids out of school to travel outside of peak season.

Foodie city breaks In 2024, people could plan their holidays predominantly around food.

Over half (52 per cent) of UK travellers are more interested in learning about the origins of ‘must-eat’ delicacies on holiday than they were in the past. This could see a boom in trips to foodie cities, such as Merida in Mexico.

Merida, Mexico

Cooler climes Holidays might traditionally evoke images of

PUBLIC NOTICE

Licensing Act 2003 -

Application for the grant of a Premises Licence An application has been made by: Miss Charlotte Moore For the premises: Charlie’s Angels Kitchens, 86 Camden Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2QP On the date of: 19/10/2023 Summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: Sale of alcohol: Mon - Sat – 08:00 to 23:00, Sun – 08:00 to 22:00 (On Sales only) Opening hours: Mon - Sat – 08:00 to 23:00, Sun – 08:00 to 22:30 Any person wishing to view details of an application may contact the Licensing Partnership on 01732 227004 Any person wishing to make representation about the application should make them in writing on or before the 15/11/2023 Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is Unlimited.

38

Motors

Wednesday November 1 | 2023

DS pilots ChatGPT function in its cars DS is piloting the use of the artificial intelligence service ChatGPT in its cars to provide a ‘conversational experience’ to drivers.

Available during a pilot phase to 20,000 DS 3, DS 4, DS 7 and DS 9 owners – who can activate the feature for free if they take out a subscription between October 19 and February 29 – the feature can be instantly equipped remotely through the DS Services store.

Once in place, the system can be accessed via the car’s infotainment system and gives access to a variety of functions via speech recognition.

For example, it can be used to ‘invent a quiz on your favourite subject’, according to DS, or even ‘create a children’s story’ while on the road.

Olivier François, head of DS Automobiles, said: “Our mission at DS is to provide our customers with a unique onboard experience. As pioneers in the integration of ChatGPT into the automotive world, we are making a generative artificial intelligence that is fluid, intuitive, immersive and

accessible, transforming every trip into a unique journey. It is a high-tech revolution with unlimited potential that is part of one of the greatest 21st-century societal transformations.”

Drivers only need to say ‘OK Iris’ – referring to the car’s DS Iris infotainment – to activate the system, or they can press a button on the steering wheel to do the same. The voice control system then activates, allowing the person driving to submit a variety of requests without taking their eyes away from the road.

Focus Yves Bonnefont, Stellantis’ Chief Software Officer, said: “Since ChatGPT has been available, we’ve worked to integrate it into our own systems. And we are pleased to be the first to offer this innovation in Europe. This development is part of Stellantis’ strategic focus, within the Dare Forward 2030 strategy.”

Picture: DS

Updated Peugeot 208 now available to order PEUGEOT has announced that a refreshed version of its 208 supermini is now available to order.

The 208 was Europe’s most popular car in 2021 and 2022, and gains a number of key upgrades as part of this mid-life update. Some of the most notable are under the surface, with the electric e-208 now using a new powertrain.

Range Pairing a slightly larger 51kWh battery with a more powerful 154bhp electric motor, it increases the claimed range from 225 miles to 248 miles. With 100kW rapid charging capability, the battery can be charged from 20 to 80 per cent in ‘less than 30 minutes’.

Peugeot is also introducing two new mildhybrid versions of the 208, using a 1.2-litre petrol engine paired to a new six-speed dualclutch automatic gearbox. Outputs of 99bhp and 134bhp are available, with Peugeot claiming they can reduce fuel consumption by 15 per cent.

Standard 1.2-litre petrol versions remain available, with a 74bhp naturally-aspirated model available alongside a turbocharged 99bhp unit. Both of these are offered only with manual gearboxes.

Other changes for the 208 include a new ‘three claw’ lighting signature, while higher-spec cars

Picture: Peugeot

feature a body-colour patterned grille. Selenium Grey and Agueda Yellow are two new colours available as well. Inside, a 10-inch touchscreen is now provided as standard, along with a new 3D digital instrument panel.

Prices for the refreshed 208 start from £20,400 for the petrol model, £23,300 for the hybrid and £32,400 for the electric e-208.

Standard equipment on the Active includes a 10-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and LED lights. The mid-range Allure model brings front and rear parking sensors and navigation, while the top-spec GT adds larger 17-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera and keyless entry.

Orders are now open for the new Peugeot 208, with first deliveries expected in early 2024.

Road trip by Sam & Jessie.

Car Insurance that went the extra mile by Mitesh and his team.

Toyota hints at potential new electric Land Cruiser TOYOTA could be set to introduce a new electric version of its Land Cruiser four-wheel-drive.

The Japanese firm has already revealed a new incarnation of its famous off-roader, but while that version will use reasonably traditional engine setups, this concept – called Land Cruiser Se – will adopt a fully electric powertrain instead.

It also shuns the more retro-inspired design of

Picture: Toyota

the diesel-powered model in favour of a far more futuristic aesthetic. With crisp lines and a sharp, upright look it appears closer in design to many of the current crop of electric-powered SUVs. It also has a full-width light bar at the rear, which is a common feature among many of the latest EVs. It also incorporates three rows of seating offering space for up to seven people, while the electric motor’s quietness ‘helps create a comfortable cabin space when driving in urban areas and other on-road situations’, according to Toyota. It also uses a monocoque design – rather than the traditional ladder chassis of the upcoming diesel version – which would point towards a more road-comfort-focused setup.

Toyota has yet to give any full details about the Se’s range or performance but has stated that it’ll measure in at 5,150mm long and 1,990m wide, putting it close in size to the ‘regular’ Land Cruiser which is currently on sale in many parts of the world.

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