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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
PHOTO: David Bartholomew
Former Lib Dem Mayor is backing Tory Greg Clark to keep his seat
BIRTHDAY GIRL: Polly Taylor emerged from a giant cake to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Pickering Cancer Drop in Centre. See pg 6-7
Hub finally gets underway with community hall and new theatre By Richard Williams A PROJECT beset with delays, political infighting, scaling down of the original plans and an eleventh hour threat from NHS bosses that it would withdraw funding, has finally gone ahead. Work began on the Southborough Hub yesterday afternoon [Tuesday], when the various stakeholders on the project, including Southborough Town Council, Kent County Council, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Tunbridge Wells Youth FC and St Andrew’s Medical Centre, were all on hand to see a start being made. The Hub, which is being constructed on London Road on the site of the old Southborough Town Council offices and Royal Victoria Hall, will be a mixed use development incorporating a community hall, theatre, library, football pavilion as well as a new medical centre. However, the £10million project, that
should take just over a year, has had a difficult genesis. Since plans for the Hub were first drafted in 2015, the development has been scaled down from its original £30million design to cut costs.
‘The Town Council is delighted to see that we are finally seeing real progress’ Cllr Nick Blackwell Southborough Town Council, which has spearheaded the project, has also been beset with political infighting over the development. Control of the council also switched to Labour this year, with many blaming the Conservatives’ handling of the Hub project as the cause for their defeat. In August, NHS bosses threatened to
pull £4.2million of funding for the project just one day before contracts were meant to be signed over a dispute about liabilities for the building. Greg Clark, MP at the time, managed to broker an eleventh hour deal, and the £10million contract with builders Baxall was finally signed last month. Leader of Southborough Town Council, Nick Blackwell, said: “The Town Council is delighted to see that we are finally seeing real progress with our new town centre and very pleased to be working with local company Baxall of Paddock Wood.” He added that the Council has ‘responded to the previous lack of public engagement by convening an independent Hub Advisory Group’ to respond to any concerns raised as they finalise the details of the Hub development.
Continued on page 4
A FORMER Liberal Democrat Mayor for Tunbridge Wells has come out in support of Conservative candidate Greg Clark at the General Election. Cllr David Neve, who has represented St James’ ward on the borough council for the last 33 years – making him the longest serving councillor in the borough – quit the Liberal Democrats earlier this year. At the time he said he was sick of all the infighting with local politics, and announced his intention to sit as an independent councillor on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.
Campaign Now Cllr Neve, who was Mayor in 2016 - 2017, has completely shunned his former Lib Dem council colleague, Ben Chapelard who is standing as the party’s parliamentary candidate for the General Election, and thrown his weight behind Conservative rival Greg Clark who has held the seat since 2005. The former mayor even appears on the prospective MP’s campaign literature, which is being dropped through people’s letterboxes this week. In it, he says: “Greg is a highly respected constituency MP. He fights for our area, he is immersed in our community and he gets things done for us.” COUNCILLOR David Neve
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Police morale at an all time low Council does a with one in ten wanting to quit U-turn on car By Richard Williams
AWARD WINNING: Dandara’s 1887 development on The Pantiles wins top architectural award p8 EDUCATING THE PRESENT GENERATION ABOUT THE PAST: A new Remembrance Garden at St Gregory’s pays tribute to the fallen p19 SHEER BLISS: Tunbridge Wells Hospital’s neonatal specialist unit recognised by UK’s leading premature and sick baby charity Bliss p13
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: This week’s top hot properties are featured in our special homes guide p23
ACCORDING to a new survey, police officers in Kent are unhappy with their pay and more than half say their morale is low. The Police Federation of England and Wales’ 2019 Pay and Morale survey, that was released yesterday [Tuesday], found 80 per cent of officers in the force surveyed said that they are dissatisfied with their pay. Morale in Kent Police is also at an all-time low, according to the survey, with 87 per cent of respondents saying it is low within the force while more than half [56 per cent] saying they personally suffered from low morale. And nearly one in ten officers said they intended to leave the force either within the next two years or as soon as possible.
Dissatisfaction The annual survey was answered by more than 838 rank and file officers in Kent, representing around 23 per cent – more than the 16 per cent of officers that answered the survey nationally. The results show increases in dissatisfaction with pay and conditions in the force, with nearly two thirds of officers [63 per cent] saying they would not recommend the police as a career. “This year’s survey continues to be disappointing in respect of the concerns and worries our members have both nationally and here in Kent,” said Kent Police Federation Chairman Neil Mennie. “However, given the recent constraints and cuts it does not come as a surprise - I have always taken the view that policing is a vocation, and this is shared by many of our members. “In recent years, pay increases for officers have not kept pace with the cost of living and with a deterioration in the value of the South East Allowance have bitten into the wage packet.” Newly recruited constables at Kent Police currently
earn a starting salary of £20,880, which can rise to more than £40,000 depending on time served. The news was not welcomed by Kent PCC Matthew Scott, especially as more than two thirds of Kent Police officers surveyed said they felt worse off financially now than they did five years ago – before Mr Scott was elected to office. Yesterday [Tuesday], Mr Scott, who is standing again for PCC in May, said: “Kent Police’s officers and staff are its number one asset and it is vital they are well looked after. “I speak with representatives of the Police Federation and Unison regularly and I spend time out in the community engaging directly with officers and staff to hear what life is like for them on the frontline. “Pay is set nationally, and I will continue to lobby Government to argue that officers who put themselves in harm’s way to protect us deserve more.” Deputy Chief Constable of Kent Police Tony Blaker added: “Kent Police has invested heavily in support services for its officers and staff, with programs like ‘Live Well Feel Well’ focused on physical and mental wellbeing and the force’s strides in support for its employees has been recognised by the independent policing inspectorate when it graded Kent Police as ‘outstanding’ for the way it treats people, including officers and staff, for the last four years in a row. “Furthermore, uplifts in the council tax precept from the Police and Crime Commissioner over the last two years have allowed Kent Police to recruit an additional 450 officers and the recent national recruitment drive will see more constables joining the force and offer further support to existing officers.” However, the Federation’s Neil Mennie said: “Of course, we hope that the uplift of officers will help but this will take time and we also need to ensure we motivate our more experienced officers to guide Neil Mennie and lead them.”
Building work finally begins on Southborough Hub CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037
Continued from page 1 Cllr Blackwell continued: “We also been working with the Theatres Trust and will be taking on board their professional input into the project.”
He added: “We believe that Southborough deserves the opportunity to access theatre within our town and we want to ensure that what we build is wanted and supported by our local community.”
CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richardwilliams@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES GHak@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779650 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews
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CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times Local News we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TF, or email newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
DIGGING IT: From left to right – Southborough Mayor, ClAlain Lewis; St Andrew’s Medical Centre Manager, Tanya Shaw; TWBC Cllr Carol Mackonochie; and KCC Cabinet Member Mike Hill
park changes By Robert Forrester
THE Council has been forced to reverse changes it made to two town centre car parks following complaints from traders. As reported in the Times last week, retailers along Camden Road said changes made by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to Beech Street car park were a ‘kick in the teeth’. The Council wanted to move all permit parking to the one car park in Beech Street, freeing up Camden Road Car Park for pay and display users. A spokesperson said the decison was made by council officers in conjunction with the Cabinet. She added: “The intention was to make Beech Street a season ticketholders only car park, and make Camden Road the visitors and shoppers car park. We would then upgrade Camden Road with new signage, planters and payment machines, making it a more attractive location. “The decision to make Beech Street season tickets only was because Camden Road Car Park is larger and easier for motorists to negotiate.” She continued: “Beech Street has tight spaces and is accessed from a narrow residential road, whereas Camden Road Car Park is entered from the main road.”
Roadworks But traders criticised the move, arguing it made no sense to have Beech Street Car Park standing half empty throughout the day, while shoppers and visitors had to compete for the limited spaces at Camden Road. Jack Ward, owner of Velocipede bicycle shop, opposite Beech Street Car Park told the Times the change was the latest ‘kick in the teeth’ following weeks of roadworks that had already disrupted trade. He said: “My customers will end up going somewhere else where they can park.” He even warned the Council he would fight the move by starting a petition ‘among other things’. Last week, the Council decided to backtrack, reverting the two car parks to how they were, with permit holders and pay and display visitors able to use both car parks. A spokesperson said: “Clearly from the feedback we received, the decision was not well received and we are very sorry about that.” She continued: “Businesses pointed out that there were unused spaces in Beech Street which suggests that season ticket holders are not using the car park on a daily basis. “We have reversed the decision and both car parks are now operating exactly as they were previously.”
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Thieves use digger in Cranbrook ATM raid THIEVES have heavily damaged a supermarket in a Tunbridge Wells town by using a digger to wrench free the cash machine. The raid occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning last week [November 14], when thieves used the JCB to smash their way into the cash machine at the Co-op in Cranbrook High Street. Police say a large amount of money was stolen and they have identified a vehicle found near to the scene which they believe may have been used in the burglary.
Burrswood auction HEALTHCARE equipment, furniture and general furnishings from a Health and Well-being Centre that fell into administration earlier this year are being auctioned off. As reported in the Times in April, The Dorothy Kerin Trust, which ran the Health and Well-being centre at the Grade II listed Burrswood estate in Groombridge for 51 years, called in the administrators in April, blaming ‘considerable financial challenges’ for the centre’s collapse. Now administrators Mark Newman and Vincent Green from Tunbridge Wells-based Crowe UK are holding an online auction on December 5 to sell items including assisted baths, people hoists, electric standing aids and electric patient lifts, as well as commercial catering equipment. In addition, Swann Auctions will be selling the estate’s fine art and antiques on site on November 23.
Forest Live headliners WILL Young and James Morrison have announced co-headlining dates as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series presented by Forestry England. The pair will be performing at Bedgebury Pinetum on Sunday June 14. Will Young said: “Both James and I have fond memories of appearing as part of Forest Live as solo artists in the past. We love the work Forestry England does, so we are glad to be back again in what promises to be a fantastic double-header of a show.” Tickets go on sale at 9am Friday, November 22 priced at £49.50 [plus £5.95 booking fee] from forestryengland.uk/ music or by calling the box office: 03000 680400.
NICE ICE BABY: The Tunbridge Wells ice rink opened on Friday evening with entertainment from the Rock Choir and Silver Blades. It will be open until January 5 2020.
Liberal Democrats take Culverden while Alliance support dwindles By Richard Williams THE Liberal Democrats hailed their Culverden by-election result as a sign Tunbridge Wells will oust the Conservatives at the General Election. Justine Rutland, the Lib Dem candidate, romped home last Thursday as local residents went to the polls to choose a replacement for Ronen Basu, the Conservative Councillor who died in September. Ms Rutland secured 888 votes over former Conservative Mayor David Elliot’s 474. She told the Times she was ‘absolutely delighted’ by the result, adding: “I think I had a few advantages in this election as I grew up in the ward so know a lot of people here and I know a lot of people from church. “We [Liberal Democrats] also have a great network in Culverden, with a lot of members, so there were enough people to help.” The freelance copywriter said she was looking forward to working on behalf of residents in the ward and already had meetings lined up. She also said she would ‘rigorously’ defend the seat when it comes up for re-election next year. Meanwhile, the party set up to oppose the
Council’s now failed theatre project could only manage fourth in Culverden, with their candidate Rachel Daly securing just 180 votes. The Times revealed in September that the Alliance had set its sights on targeting the Liberal Democrats after winning five seats during May’s local elections.
Convincing But now the project has been scrapped, the party’s candidate not only lost out to the Lib Dems but also the Conservatives as well as the Women’s Equality Party’s Liz Orr, who secured third place with 193 votes. Labour had perhaps the worst result, with only 99 people of the wards near 6,000 voters bothering to turn out for David Adams. The Greens came last, with Aimee Taylor securing just 67 votes. The Lib Dems hailed the result as a sign voters would back them next month. Ben Chapelard, parliamentary candidate, said: “This convincing victory shows that we are now well on course to take the parliamentary seat from Greg Clark and put a Remain MP on the map on December 12.”
CULVERDEN BY-ELECTION RESULTS Justine Rutland, Liberal Democrat: 888 votes Elected David Elliot, Conservative, 474 votes Liz Orr, Women’s Equality Party, 193 votes Rachel Daly, Tunbridge Wells Alliance, 180 votes David Adams, Labour, 99 votes Aimiee Taylor, Green, 67 votes Turnout 1,903 [32.2 per cent]
VICTOR Newly elected Cllr Justine Rutland
Councils apologise for bin service that has ‘significantly fallen short’ of expectations THE two council officers in charge of bin collections in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge & Malling have written an open letter to apologise to residents in both boroughs. From September 30 the councils for both boroughs jointly launched a new household collection service to include food, glass, metal and plastics as well as paper and card for recycling. The scheme, worth a reported £3million a year to service provider Urbaser, has proved disappointing. As revealed in the Times earlier this month, four weeks into the new recycling collection service and one in 40 bins were still not being collected by the waste management company. Now, Robert Styles, Director of Street Scene, Leisure and Technical Services at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and Paul Taylor, Director of Change and Communities at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have written a joint letter apologising to residents in both boroughs. They said: “While any transition of this kind involving more than 100,000 homes will always present challenges, we recognise that in some cases our new service has fallen significantly short of the standard that residents are entitled to expect. “We would like to apologise to those who have experienced problems and thank them for their patience through this transition period. “We can also assure readers that everything possible is being done both to rectify the current problems and to deliver the high quality recycling service we are committed to offering every household.” To read the full open letter see ‘And another thing’ page 18.
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
By Jonathan Banks IT WAS a double celebration at the weekend for the volunteers, ‘clients’ and supporters of the Pickering Cancer Drop in Centre in Tunbridge Wells. The charity marked its 15th birthday along with the purchase of the terraced house in Monson Road that is its current home. More than 200 specially invited guests attended a gala dinner at the Spa Hotel where close to £70,000 was raised during an auction of donated prizes. The money will replace some of the £675,000 that Pickering last week paid Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for the centre which the charity had been renting from the authority. Since Pickering was launched 15 years ago it has become one of the
‘We can now leave behind a lasting legacy’ SUPPORTING ACT Blues Brothers’ Little Brother have been playing for the charity for many years free of charge
most popular charities in the town. Each year the centre, which has received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, helps some 3,000 people from across the region whose lives have been touched by cancer, including family and friends.
Amazing Everyone one at the centre is a volunteer and those who ‘drop- in’ receive help, advice and certain treatments, such as remedial massage, free of charge. Co-founder Polly Taylor, who was awarded the British Empire Medal for her work with the charity, said: “To have such an amazing evening with all our volunteers and friends on the Saturday and to have
PHOTO: David Barthol0mew
Pickering celebrates a ‘dream’ week with birthday gala night and buying own home
PURE GOLD Olympic medallist Dame Kelly Holmes and Polly Taylor with charity supporters Marc Matthews and wife Amanda
IN MEMORIAM Paying respects at Tonbridge Memorial Gardens [picture Kerry Barton]
HIGH NOTE Charlotte Bartholomew who has been singing for the charity for nine years
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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ON SONG Fagin portrayed by local music teacher Michael Smith
actually bought our very own home the day before, was just a dream come true. “Buying the centre means we can leave behind a lasting legacy that will continue to help people, many of them young children, for generations to come.”
Support Polly paid tribute to all those who have worked over the years to make the Pickering ‘dream’ come true including her ‘right hand’ at the centre Gaynor Ratcliffe. “It really has been a team effort,” she explained,” with tremendous support from the local business community, particularly our friends at the Markerstudy Group, who have never failed us
AN EVENING TO REMEMBER Guests enjoyed a gala dinner and entertainment
when we have reached out for their help.” The night of cabaret at the Spa Hotel was hosted by local businessman Anthony Gerrard–White, who kindly gave his time for free, and saw Polly popping out of a giant birthday cake. To round off the weekend celebrations some 60 people from ‘Pickering Families’ pulled on their skates at the council’s newly opened ice rink in Calverley Grounds. “They absolutely loved it,” said Polly. On Tuesday (November 26), the actual birthday, Pickering is staging an open house at the centre in Monson Road from 11am till 3pm. To find out more about Pickering visit pickeringcancercentre.org.uk
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
Bookmakers shut after fixed-odds clampdown
THE local branches of William Hill have closed due to changes in the law on fixed-odds betting terminals. The bookmaker warned in July that nearly a third of its high street branches would close after the government changed the law in April to reduce the maximum stake on fixed-odds terminals to £2.
Gambling The fruit machine-style machines used to have a maximum stake of £100, but rules were changed following concerns that people with gambling problems could lose large sums of money too rapidly on the terminals. Since the move, William Hill says it has seen a ‘significant fall’ in gaming machine revenue, with betting shop
sales down around £100million. It warned that 700 of its 2,300 stores would close, and around 4,500 jobs would go, more than a third of its 12,500-strong workforce. Now it appears the Mount Pleasant and Grosvenor Road branches have become casualties of the restructuring, which also saw the resignation of William Hill’s Chief Executive, Philp Bowcock, last month. A spokesman said: “In July, William Hill announced that we had entered into a consultation process with retail colleagues over plans to close around 700 licensed betting offices. “It follows the Government’s decision to reduce the maximum stake on B2 gaming products to £2 on 1 April 2019. We are utilising redeployment and voluntary redundancy where possible.”
BUILDING SUCCESS The team at Dandara
Pantiles development is named South-East’s best By Richard Williams
PIC: Colin Walton
NO MORE BETS The Mount Pleasant shop has closed
THE new development being built at the bottom of The Pantiles has won a top architectural award. 1887 The Pantiles is being constructed by Dandara, which emerged as the big winner at the 2019 UK Property Awards, scooping a total of ten accolades for developments across the country at a ceremony held at The Royal Lancaster London Hotel this month. Consisting of one, two and threebedroom apartments as well as contemporary two-bedroom mews homes, 1887 The Pantiles was crowned Best Architecture Multiple Residence in the South East. Named after the date when Tunbridge
Wells’ most famous location offically took its current name, 1887 The Pantiles has also been put forward as the Regional Nominee for the International rounds in December to compete for the ‘World’s Best’ title.
Variety Dandara also won an award for Park House, a two-bedroom apartment in Knights Wood, the Tunbridge Wells housing development recently crowned ‘Best New Housing Development’ at the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society’s 41st Annual Awards. At the time, Dr David Wright, Chairman of the society’s Awards Panel, said they liked the variety of housing
at Knights Wood, as well as the design of the new Skinners’ Kent Primary School nearby. In particular, he said they liked the fact that Knights Wood provided a wide range of homes. Louise Norman, Head of Sales and Marketing at Dandara, said: “I am absolutely thrilled with all of Dandara’s recent successes. “We work tirelessly to create homes that offer real value for money, without compromising on design, durability or quality. “For so many of our developments to be successful is extremely satisfying and clearly highlights the very high standards that set Dandara apart from the competition.”
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South-East housing market is ‘subdued’ – but Tunbridge Wells is ‘bucking the trend’ SELLING WELL The local housing market remains buoyant
By Richard Williams A FIFTH of estate agents in the South East have reported a fall in new buyer enquiries as house buyers adopt a ‘wait and see’ attitude over Brexit and the General Election. According to the latest monthly RICS [Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors] UK Residential Market Survey, the South East continues to show a subdued housing sales market with a lack of newly agreed purchases and new buyer enquiries. During the month of October, 21 per cent of agents in the region reported a fall in new buyer enquiries, with newly agreed sales remaining negative for the third month in a row.
Dipped Across the UK, sales dipped across virtually all parts of the country apart from Northern Ireland, where there was a reported marginal increase. Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief
Economist, said the latest survey suggests both buyer and seller activity remains in a holding pattern, ‘hampered by political and economic uncertainty’. He said: “Given the upcoming General Election next month, it appears unlikely that these trends will pick up to any meaningful extent over the remainder of this year.” However, a Tunbridge Wells property lawyer says the royal town is ‘bucking the trend’ and the local housing market continues to be upbeat. Jennifer Irving, Head of Residential Property at CooperBurnett, said: “Despite all the uncertainty in the media about the economy and Brexit, we have seen Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area buck the trend as regards residential property.” She continued: “Tunbridge Wells continues to be somewhere people want to move to, and that’s often because of how family-friendly the town is and the great schools here, coupled with the fairly straightforward commute into London, plus the countryside on our doorstep and the Jennifer Irving coast not too far away.”
Cycle ‘Pump Track’ plans go on display NEW plans for a Pump Track in Tunbridge Wells are to go on display at Royal Victoria Place [RVP] this week. The proposals can be seen in the Lower Mall tomorrow [Thursday], and outline what would be the borough’s first Pump Track – a cycling circuit built with obstacles, aimed at cyclists of all ages, especially those keen to boost their fitness. It is being earmarked for Hawkenbury Recreation Ground, and visitors to RVP will be able to talk to representatives of Hawkenbury Village Association, who are backing the plans.
CYCLE PLANS How the new Hawkenbury Pump Track could look
Town’s law firms listed as the best TWO Tunbridge Wells solicitors have been recognised in The Times Best Law Firms 2020. Thomson Snell & Passmore, who last week moved into a new, five-storey open-plan office in Vale Avenue, and Cripps Permberton Greenish, based on Mount Ephraim, were the only practices in Kent to make the list. Compiled by The Times and Statista, but entirely peer selected, only 200 of
the 10,000 legal practices in England and Wales were chosen. Joanne Gallagher, who heads up Thomson Snell & Passmore’s corporate and commercial group, was also referenced in the listing for her work on a range of acquisitions for clients. The firm’s CEO, Sarah Henwood, said: “This is an amazing achievement by both teams, and is particularly significant as it is based solely on the opinions of our
peers. As a firm, we hugely value our relationships with a wide range of legal practices in the South East and beyond. “The listing helps cement our position as one of the preeminent law firms in the South East, and to have two practice areas recognised is testament to our growth, dedication and excellent levels of service. I look forward to building on these achievements as we enter our 450th year, and beyond.”
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Tunbridge Wells businesses learn how to become dementia friendly would check the buses when they return to the depot and often find an elderly person on board who was confused and didn’t know where they were going. Karen Pengelly said: “Dementia is a subject that crosses the boundary of personal and business – we all know people with dementia and our town should be as safe and welcoming as it can be.
By Andy Tong TUNBRIDGE WELLS’ Dementia Friendly Community [DFC] has received a significant boost after it joined forces with Royal Tunbridge Wells Together to encourage businesses in the town to become ‘dementia friendly’. The event at the Assembly Hall Theatre was attended by a number of local companies, who heard why a business would achieve dementiafriendly status and how to access the relevant training and resources.
Awards
‘It was a huge success. I brought along the ageing suit which we challenge people to try so they can get an idea of what it’s like to live with dementia’ The information was aimed at all organisations that regularly come into contact with people who live with dementia, in order to improve their staff’s understanding of the condition and learn how to help their customers. CooperBurnett became the first business to be entered on to the DFC register in Tunbridge Wells. Associate Solicitor Katie Hancock made a presentation describing what the law firm had to do and what it means for them, their staff and clients. Royal Tunbridge Wells Together is a BID [Business Improvement District] that was formed in April 2019, and its Town Centre Manager, Karen Pengelly, also addressed the meeting. She described how she had spoken to local bus companies who told her that late-night drivers
RAISING AWARENESS Vicki Pickering, Sales Manager for Hallmark Care Homes, tries on the ageing suit
“Dementia crosses the divide, it can’t just be categorised as personal. Entire communities should be thinking of dementia and considering what can be done.” She added: “The event was a great success with several businesses signing up on the spot to commence the process of becoming dementia friendly. “I can’t thank CooperBurnett enough for their input and contribution to the event. The BID will be revisiting this subject in the future and assisting businesses as much as we can.” Chris Parker, the Chair of Tonbridge’s hugely successful DFC, has brought her expertise to bear on Tunbridge Wells’ offering and is confident it can build on this promising start. Tonbridge has seen two companies, Castle Cars and Inspirations Hair Salon, win countywide awards for their innovative approach to helping elderly customers. Chris Parker said: “It was a huge success. I brought along the ageing suit which we challenge people to try so they can get an idea of what it’s like to live with dementia. “And I had five businesses and also Royal Victoria Place all keen to become dementia friendly. So we’ve made a great start.”
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
Afternoon tea and garden makeover at Fountains Lodge FOUNTAINS LODGE care home in Southborough invited older people in the neighbourhood to take part in a tea dance to celebrate ‘Silver Sunday’. The national day aims to tackle loneliness and isolation by encouraging the community to put on free events for older people to socialise, try new things and meet new people. Residents and guests spent the afternoon talking and enjoying tea and cake while listening to live music from the brass band Yardley Woodwind Ensemble and pianist Drew Levi. The Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, Cllr James Scholes, and his wife Jane came along to support the event. The care home’s General Manager Louise Eastwood said: “Everyone had a fantastic time at this year’s Silver Sunday event with many new friendships made. “We know loneliness is a growing issue for older people, and it’s great to be able to welcome the community into our home where they can enjoy fun activities in the company of others.” The BUPA home also unveiled its new-look garden, courtesy of a National Citizen Service programme funded by Charlton Athletic Community Trust in Tonbridge. The teenagers in the team, organised by Curtis and Priya, raised £250 to buy flowers and shrubs and planted them to add a dash of colour. Priya said: “It’s great to see young people in the community coming together to help improve the outdoor space for residents at Fountains Lodge. “It was a fun project and the garden now has much more colour and natural beauty for everyone to enjoy.” Louise added: “It’s also been lovely to bring the generations together, and both the young people and residents enjoyed getting to know one another.”
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
There But Not There ‘Tommy’ stands guard at the Cenotaph THE artist behind the iconic There But Not There installation in Penshurst Church three years ago was invited to place one of his creations at the Cenotaph in London during this year’s Remembrance commemorations. Martin Barraud came up with the idea of representing the Fallen of the First World War with 50 perspex figures among the pews at St John the Baptist Church in the village in 2016, with support from Reverend Tom Holme. His six-foot silhouettes of ‘Tommy’ soldiers were bought by 5,000 communities across the country to mark last year’s centenary of the end of the First World War. A further 80,000 ten-inch versions were sold, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for the charity Remembered, which supports the Armed Forces community, while education packs were sent out to 24,000 schools. Martin said: “Three years on from a local idea to help take Penshurst’s 50 Fallen off the wall [the church war memorial], we were invited by the Western Front Association to lay a Tommy at the Cenotaph. “I have to say, standing in the small group with others laying wreaths, in the middle of Whitehall, in the chilly blue sky day, listening to the Last Post and then walking alone to the Cenotaph to be guided as to where to put the Tommy by a friendly face was truly a lifetime moment. Just simply unforgettable.” This year, Martin created another installation to mark the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Bootprints on Slapton Sands, laying out 749 sets of footprints on the shore. It commemorated the tragic rehearsal in Devon for the invasion of Normandy, when 749 US servicemen were killed after their ships were attacked by German E-Boats. For more information, please visit therebutnotthere.org.uk
UNFORGETTABLE: Martin Barraud holds a ‘Tommy’, which he laid at the Cenotaph in Remembrance
Award for hospital neo-natal unit with family at its centre TUNBRIDGE WELLS Hospital has become the fifth in England to receive a prestigious award for its neonatal unit from the UK’s leading premature and sick baby charity, Bliss. The Bliss Baby Charter Accreditation recognises the delivery of high quality care to babies and support for their families. The charter was developed to help hospitals caring for premature and sick babies to assess the care they provide and identify areas for improvement.
said: “I am delighted that Bliss are able to formally recognise the ongoing commitment of staff at Tunbridge Wells Hospital with their family-centred approach to the care of vulnerable babies.
“The work of staff here is making a vital difference to the lives of the babies they care for every single day. “They are an example of excellence and this award is well deserved.”
Vulnerable Neonatal Specialist Matron Julia Moat said: “The team at Tunbridge Wells Hospital is extremely proud of the fact we have been awarded the accreditation. “It is a huge achievement, and acknowledges the hard work of the staff to ensure we always provide individualised, family-centred care of the highest standard to the parents of extremely sick or premature babies who are admitted to the Neonatal Unit for specialist treatment – no matter how long or short their stay may be. ”We started working in earnest on the Baby Charter Standards in 2015, so it has been a long journey but one that has been extremely worthwhile in order to get us to where we are today.” Justin Irwin, Chief Executive at Bliss,
BLISSFUL SMILES: (L-R) Tunbridge Wells Hospital Neonatal Specialist Matron Julia Moat pictured with Sisters Tara Hayward and Julie Iverson and the team’s award
Community News
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NEWS
National News
NEWS IN BRIEF
Husband found not guilty of wife’s death
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Babies and mothers died amid a ‘toxic’ culture at NHS trust
A HUSBAND has been cleared of killing his wife after he was accused of scalding her with oil after a row at their chip shop. Geoffrey Bran, 71, was accused of pushing or throwing a deep fat fryer on to Mavis Bran, his wife of 38 years, leaving her with horrific burns that led to her death six days later. Mrs Bran died from multi-organ failure in hospital six days after suffering ‘horrific burns’ to 46 per cent of her body after developing sepsis and hypothermia and undergoing surgery to remove some of her burned skin. Paramedics found she had a blood alcohol reading of 108 mg/dl, higher than the drink-drive limit of 80mg/dl. Mr Bran was in tears as the jury at Swansea Crown Court read out their not guilty verdict, before judge Paul Thomas QC released him from the dock.
Wheelie bin murder A MAN charged with the murder of a woman whose body was found in a wheelie bin has appeared at Crown Court. The body of 39-year-old Nicola Stevenson was found by a dog walker at a recreation ground in Lewes, East Sussex, last week. It was found on ground off Landport Road at 12.30pm last Wednesday. Richard Canlin, 41, of no fixed address, was charged with murder on Sunday and appeared at Hove Crown Court on Tuesday. He did not enter a plea and will appear again at Crown Court on November 26 for a further hearing. A preliminary trial date has been set for April 2020.
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
VICTIM: Rhiannon Davies pictured pregnant with her daughter Kate [picture Richard Stanton]
BABIES and mothers died amid major failings at a hospital trust in what is likely to be the NHS’s worst ever maternity scandal. A report leaked to The Independent shows that a ‘toxic’ culture stretching back 40 years was in place when babies and mothers suffered avoidable death at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust. Staff at the trust routinely dismissed parents’ concerns, were unkind, got dead babies’ names wrong and, in one instance, referred to a baby who died as ‘it’. The report comes from an independent inquiry ordered by the Government in July 2017. Its initial scope was to examine 23 cases but this has now grown to more than 270 covering the period 1979 to the present day and include 22 stillbirths, three deaths during pregnancy, 17 deaths of babies after birth, three deaths of mothers, 47 cases of substandard care and 51 cases of cerebral palsy or brain damage. The inquiry was launched following the efforts of Rhiannon and Richard Stanton Davies, whose daughter Kate died shortly after birth in 2009, and Kayleigh and Colin Griffiths, whose daughter Pippa died shortly after birth in 2016. Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust has since ‘apologised unreservedly’.
Assange Swedish charges dropped PROSECUTORS in Sweden have dropped a rape investigation into Wikileaks co-founder Julian Assange. The Swedish Prosecution Authority said in a statement: “Deputy Director of Public Prosecution Eva-Marie Persson has today decided to discontinue the investigation regarding Julian Assange. “The reason for this decision is that the evidence has weakened considerably due to the
long period of time that has elapsed since the events in question.” Assange, who has always denied the accusation, avoided extradition to Sweden for seven years after seeking refuge at the Ecuadorean embassy in London in 2012. The 48-year-old Australian was finally evicted in April and sentenced to 50 weeks in jail for breaching his bail conditions. He is currently being held at Belmarsh prison in London.
UNDER FIRE The Duke of York before the scandal broke
Organisations distance themselves from Duke THE fallout from the Duke of York’s Newsnight interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein continues, with sponsors of his flagship business project pulling out. Asian-focused bank Standard Chartered as well as KPMG have both said they will not be renewing a sponsorship contract with Andrew’s Pitch@ Palace, a mentoring scheme for tech start-ups and entrepreneurs. While pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca said it is also reviewing its future with the mentoring scheme: “Our three-year partnership with Pitch@ Palace is due to expire at the end of this year and is currently being reviewed.” Students at Huddersfield University have also approved a motion to lobby the Duke to resign as chancellor from the institution. ARREST Assange being taken to Belmarsh in April
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
World News
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Grace died from ‘consensual’ sex A YOUNG girl from Essex found dead after going on a Tinder date, died after being involved in consensual sexual activity, a forensic pathologist has told a New Zealand court. Grace Millane from Wickford, Essex, went on a date with a 27-year-old man she met on the dating app in Auckland on December 1, 2018. The Crown says the defendant, who cannot be named due to a suppression order, strangled her and shoved her body inside a suitcase before burying her in a forested area outside Auckland. But Florida-based pathologist Dr Fintan Garavan appearing via audio-visual link in Auckland High Court said there was ‘no evidence to injuries of deeper haemorrhaging’ in Ms Millane’s death.
Struggle Radio NZ quoted the doctor as saying: “In my expert opinion, if a non-consensual act has taken place the victim is under attack or resisting attack, they struggle. “It’s that action, the struggle or struggling, between an aggressor and a recipient, that gives rise to such injuries.” Crown prosecutor Brian Dickey challenged Dr Garavan about whether the pathology report could show the presence or absence of consent, to which Radio NZ said the doctor replied that the absence of other injuries had given him reason to pause.
NEWS
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Russia repatriates 32 children from ISIS
ILLNESS Nawaz Sharif
Ex PM Sharif flies to London AILING former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who was convicted of corruption, has left the country to travel to London for medical treatment. The 69-year-old, who served three times as prime minister but fell from grace after the Supreme Court ousted him from office over corruption allegations two years ago, has had a history of health problems, including heart disease. He departed on a specially equipped medical plane from Lahore, after a court granted him permission to leave for four weeks abroad for medical treatment. His conviction was earlier suspended for eight weeks on medical grounds. Local television stations broadcast footage of Sharif being helped by one of his brothers and another man to board the plane, which was then shown in the air after take-off. Sharif’s younger brother Shahbaz Sharif, who is the head of the Pakistan Muslim League
opposition party, is accompanying him along with his doctor Adnan Khan. Nawaz Sharif has always maintained his innocence and denied the corruption charges that prompted the country’s top court to remove him from office in July 2017.
Victimised He claims he has been politically victimised. Elections that followed that year ushered in the government of Imran Khan, who has vowed to root out corruption. Sharif was earlier this year sentenced to seven years in prison. After his health deteriorated last month, he was rushed from his prison cell to a hospital in Lahore where he later suffered a minor heart attack. Mr Khan on Monday dismissed all speculation about a political deal to allow Sharif to leave and reaffirmed his intention to fight corruption.
RUSSIA has repatriated another 32 children of members of the so-called Islamic State group from Iraq. Russia’s state TV on Tuesday showed footage of the children arriving at Zhukovsky airport outside Moscow. The foreign ministry said the children, aged between one and nine, had been held in asylum centres in Iraq or in prisons with their mothers. Their arrival represents the fourth group of Russian children to be repatriated from Iraq. Its foreign ministry said a total of 122 children have been brought home.
Toyota suicide victim A TOYOTA engineer killed himself after being repeatedly ridiculed by his boss. A regional labour bureau ruled in September that the 2017 suicide of the 28-year-old worker entitled the victim’s family to compensation under a law regarding job-related deaths. Toyota Motor Corporation acknowledged the case yesterday [Tuesday] and said it hoped to prevent such cases in the future and expressed condolences for the death.
Jackson lawsuit appeal A CALIFORNIA appeals court could give new life to the lawsuits of two men who accuse Michael Jackson of molesting them when they were boys. The 2nd District Court of Appeal said lawsuits from James Safechuck and Wade Robson should be reconsidered. The decision is based on a new California law that gives abuse victims longer to sue.
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BUSINESS
National News
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Easyjet relaunches package holiday business following a dive in profits EASYJET has relaunched its package holiday business as it looks to increase customer numbers following the collapse of major competitor Thomas Cook. It made the announcement as it reported diving profits despite record passenger numbers in the year to September, as it was impacted by ‘some weakness in consumer confidence’. The budget airline reported a 26 per cent drop in pre-tax profits to £427million for the 12 months to September 30. Meanwhile, revenues jumped by 8.3 per cent to £6.4billion on the back of increased capacity. However, total revenue per seat decreased by 1.8% to £60.81 through the period, as the company blamed weaker confidence due to “uncertainty” surrounding Brexit.
Flexible It said revenue per seat was better in the second half of the year, due to its initiatives as well as the positive impact of strikes at rivals British Airways and Ryanair. Headline costs per seat increased by 1.5 per cent to £56.74 as higher fuel costs and adverse foreign exchange rates put pressure on profitability. EasyJet said it hopes to make progress in 2020 through the launch of EasyJet Holidays before Christmas, which it says will offer beach and city holidays through EasyJet’s network. It said it expects the new platform to break even in the 2020 financial year. Chief executive Johan Lundgren said: “EasyJet finished the 2019 financial year with a strong
performance across the business and a record summer. “I am really thrilled that with the launch before Christmas of our brand new EasyJet Holidays business, we are bringing flexibility and excellent value to the holiday market. “We believe there is a gap in the market for a modern, relevant and flexible business for today’s consumer.” The airline also announced plans to become the “first major airline to operate net-zero carbon flights” as it pushes forward with a sustainability programme which will see it offset the carbon emissions from the fuel of all of its flights. It said it will invest in forestry, renewables and community-based projects to offset its carbon impact. The firm highlighted that it is ‘only an interim measure’ while new technologies are being developed, including efforts to develop hybrid and electric planes.
European woes see losses for AO World ELECTRICAL retailer AO World has said it sees ‘green shoots’ in its UK business, but revealed plans to scale back its European arm amid widening losses in the division. The group said it planned to shut its Netherlands arm by the end of next March, than four years after launching in the country. Half-year results showed European losses widened to 15.9million euros [£13.6million] from 13.8million euros [£11.8million)]a year earlier after sales fell 3.4 per cent. But, in the UK, like-for-like sales rose 4.5 per cent, helping underlying interim earnings lift to £7.8million from £6.9million. The European woes saw overall group-wide underlying losses widen to £6.2million for the six months to September 30, against £5.4million a
year ago. Statutory pre-tax losses stood at £5.9million, which marked an improvement on the £10.9million posted a year earlier. AO founder and chief executive John Roberts said: “There are encouraging green shoots of profitable growth across our UK business, including within our core MDA (major domestic appliances) offer and we will continue to invest to drive this further.” On the Netherlands closure, whic is said to likely cost it around 3million euros [£2.6million]. He said: “This will enable us to concentrate on the transformation of our German business, where we have increased confidence in, and visibility of, the three core drivers of the business model that will put us on the path to profitability.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
Government to approve defence giant takeover THE £4billion takeover of UK defence giant Cobham has moved closer after the UK Government said it was considering giving the all-clear to US private equity firm Advent. Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom said she is ‘minded to accept’ legally binding undertakings from the proposed buyer, which would allow the sale to go through. Advent would be required to ‘maintain capability and honour the terms of existing contracts’ and refrain from withdrawing from any service for at least five years. Mrs Leadsom said no sale will go through until a consultation ends on December 17.
Pay rise for Lidl staff GERMAN discounter Lidl has put forward a £10million pay rise for workers that will see wages jump for 19,000 employees next March. The grocer said it will increase entry-level pay from £9.00 to £9.30 an hour outside of London and £10.55 to £10.75 within the M25, going up
to £11.70, depending on llength of service. It means employees will benefit from pay that is between 13-30 per cent higher than the Government’s current ‘National Living Wage’, and in line with charity the Living Wage Foundation’s rates.
TSB board’s IT failings THE board of TSB Bank lacked ‘common sense’ in the lead-up to a major IT meltdown that locked two million people out of their accounts, a report has found. An independent investigation by law firm Slaughter and May has concluded the board should have done more to challenge bosses in charge of the systems upgrade last April. It also found the IT boss at TSB failed to alert management to problems with the system, having made an ‘ill-judged’ assessment that the lender was ready to go live with a new platform for its five million customers. The debacle sparked one of the UK’s biggest ever banking systems crisis and led to former TSB boss Paul Pester stepping down. It also saw TSB foot a £370million bill for customer compensation.
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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NEWS
Letters
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG These roadworks are making me feel like a prisoner in my own home I feel like a prisoner in my own home. Who is responsible for the continuing gridlock in Tunbridge Wells, and how do we put a stop to the ridiculous traffic situation and enable people to get on with their lives without having to sit in traffic for hours? After two weeks of mayhem on London Road near the High Street, we are now faced with the farcical situation of four-way traffic lights at Carrs Corner – meaning that my driveway and access on to Calverley Park Gardens is completely blocked by noisy, smelly, queuing traffic, and people are finding it impossible to cross town. Why not at least open Mount Pleasant to traffic so it can turn left out of Church Road and then right on to Monson Road and through to Camden Road, so alleviating some of the pressure around Carrs Corner? On one day, I was caught in one-way traffic on Forest Road, Upper Grosvenor Road and Yew Tree Road because of resurfacing and other roadworks. There is no evidence of any cross-planning.
Lack of common sense hits peak Whoever decided that it made sense to cause very lengthy delays at a busy and complex road junction in Tunbridge Wells in the morning peak hour on November 11? An elaborate collection of temporary traffic lights, signs and cones caused very lengthy tailbacks on Lansdowne Road, Calverley Park Gardens, Crescent Road and Calverley Road. Many of these quickly backed up on to surrounding streets, delaying school and commuter traffic and many bus routes. I personally sat in Lansdowne Road for more than 15 minutes. At the roundabout where those roads meet, an employee of Medway Utilities was marking points on the tarmac with a yellow spray. Another stood watching him whilst a third sat on the bonnet of a nearby car smoking. Common sense would have seen this job done in the middle of the day outside peak traffic hours. To cap it all, when I returned from the St John’s area later via Garden Road, a series of signs pointed ‘diverted’ traffic into Lansdowne Road, which was already jammed solid! Did Medway Utilities check with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on the best time to do this work? Nigel Eames Tunbridge Wells
Can anyone spot the difference? The road by the Town Hall was nearly finished in time for Remembrance Sunday; it was overbudget and a long time overdue and caused financial problems for restaurants and shops nearby for many months. Another fine mess, but the councils have put up a self-congratulatory sign showing how proud of it they are and how they have spent monies doing it. The sign should read: “Can anyone spot the difference? And we spent your rates and taxes doing it.” What arrogance.
Wells. What do we have to show people visiting Tunbridge Wells? Countless roadworks, an empty cinema site, a new 70-metre stretch of road that has taken over 16 weeks to do and was ‘finished’ in time for Remembrance Sunday; note the green covers on the steps area? The refurbishment of the Congress was approximately £25million. My question is, where does Tunbridge Wells goes from here? Because we are up against it with projects like the Congress already in place and boosting the wider local economy. Steve Clark Via email
Our town is coasting towards the end
IN A JAM: Town gridlock is ridiculous Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent County Council together are doing a great job of making this town impossible to live and work in. Ian Rennardson Via email And the local Tory Party couldn’t find a replacement for Greg Clark? I find that hard to believe. What arrogance. Following your comment that Tunbridge Wells voted to remain, I believe it was a national referendum not a local one. Richard Bell Via email
SIGN OF THE TIMES Have roadworks improved the town centre?
Congress makes us a laughing stock Just look at what Tunbridge Wells has missed out on. “One of the best theatres I have ever been to,” said Ben Elton at his one-man show at the newly refurbished [Congress] theatre in Eastbourne. What a night it was; 1,600 mostly middle-aged but free-spending adults enjoying a Monday night out. Every restaurant was fully booked. When I enquired at the Assembly Hall Theatre if I could be put on a reserve list or buy any returned tickets for Ben Elton, I was told it was not possible. So I took my business to Eastbourne – and so pleased I did. This theatre is outstanding with a thriving night-time economy. We parked for free and enjoyed several drinks and a meal. What a missed opportunity for Tunbridge
Hastings and Margate, among other Kent towns, did not take huge risks with grand projects to revive themselves. They attracted small, independent, interesting businesses. In contrast, agitprop notwithstanding (banners in abandoned shops declaring ‘Tunbridge Wells is flourishing’), our own high street is dying. What is the council doing about this? Why can’t we have a renaissance, too? Jonathan Thorpe Tunbridge Wells
No consultation over Tory candidate So, Greg Clark has been chosen as the Conservative Party candidate for Tunbridge Wells in the forthcoming General Election. As a member of the local Conservative Association, I would have thought that my opinion might have been sought regarding Clark’s suitability for adoption. Not so. Adoption was carried out by the Executive Committee, without any reference to ordinary members, not even by the ward representative. In view of the recent removal and re-instatement of the Party whip, and his previous voting record, one might have expected there to have been some consultation. There was not. So, reluctantly, I have resigned from the party and will stand in the forthcoming election as an Independent candidate, opposing him and the deal that he says he now supports. Christopher Camp Independent parliamentary candidate for Tunbridge Wells
We will improve the rubbish service Residents of Tonbridge & Malling and Tunbridge Wells will be aware that on September 30 the councils for both boroughs jointly launched a new household collection service to include food, glass, metal and plastics as well as paper and card for recycling. While this has led to a big increase in the amount of material being recycled, and has been trouble-free for most people, a significant number of households have experienced delayed bin and box collections. Many of the crews who collect the waste have taken on unfamiliar rounds, and new collection vehicles have sometimes reached capacity prior to completing rounds as a result of higher than anticipated volumes of material for recycling. We are also aware that many people were
frustrated when reporting problems as we struggled to handle the high volume of calls and emails. While any transition of this kind involving more than 100,000 homes will always present challenges, we recognise that in some cases our new service has fallen significantly short of the standard that residents are entitled to expect. Both councils are determined to resolve these issues, and have required our contractor to implement an action plan as a matter of urgency. This includes additional collection rounds, dedicated teams targeting areas with uncollected bins, and weekend working. We are closely monitoring the impact this is having and will continue with these and other measures until collections return to normal. We would like to apologise to those who have experienced problems and thank them for their patience through this transition period. We can also assure readers that everything possible is being done both to rectify the current problems and to deliver the high quality recycling service we are committed to offering every household. Robert Styles Director of Street Scene, Leisure and Technical Services, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and Paul Taylor Director of Change and Communities Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
It’s not all about the side of a bus Alexander Magnus is both patronising and arrogant in his belief that supporters of leaving the EU obtain their facts from the side of a bus [November 6]. Does he really believe that those of us who have actually read the Treaty of Rome, and have spent years opposing the dysfunctional and undemocratic Brussels regime, have not thought long and hard about the issue? The destruction of our nation’s sovereignty and independence, and yielding to rule by unelected apparatchiks, are reasons we have sought to leave this organisation. As far as the claim that the European project was created to maintain peace, this is arrant nonsense. It was the standoff between Nato and the Warsaw Pact which ultimately avoided conflict, and the EU has itself endangered peace by its interference in the Balkans, and by provoking Russia in areas such as the Ukraine, as the former is unsurprisingly very sensitive to what it sees as encirclement. Those such as Mr Magnus who now think that it is valid to count all those who chose not to vote in the referendum as Remainers are obviously unaware that only Attlee gained more than 50 per cent of the vote in any general election since the war. It is those who vote who determine the result. The true scandal is that the losers in [one of] the greatest democratic vote[s] ever taken in these islands refuse to accept that they lost, and are using what Mr Magnus describes as fake news to try to overturn the decision. Colin Bullen Tonbridge
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words | Calverley is away writing his Christmas lists
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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EDUCATION
Times
Education
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Music scholar Sherman is truly ‘on Top of the World’
Local students mark Armistice Day
Schools in Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough paid tribute to the fallen in different ways including a poignant Royal British Leigon service and a new garden of remembrance the poppy as a symbol of remembrance. The service at the War Memorial on Chapel Green included a parade of Standards and maroon fire to signal the beginning and end of a two minute silence. “The Last Post” was sounded and a wreath was laid on behalf of the youth of Crowborough by children from Sir Henry Fermor CE Primary School and St Mary’s Catholic Primary School.
A NEW garden of remembrance was officially opened at St Gregory’s Catholic School last Friday November 15 by former Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Peter Blackwell. It was then blessed by Canon Peter Stodard of St Augustine’s RC Church, in the presence of the Mayor of Southborough Cllr Alain Lewis, and students and staff of the school. The garden was conceived by the school’s science technician Terry Edkins who, through his passion for nature, inspired students to create it as part of the national Kew Gardens ‘Grow Wild’ program. The garden has grown over the past 18 months from an ‘unloved’ corner of the school to include wild flowers and Flanders’ poppies and is developing into a haven for wildlife.
Reflection Shrubs and trees are now being planted in memory of those close to the school who have perished in war and to also mark tragedies around the world. It also provides a home to the remainder of the clay poppies, inspired by the Tower of London installation which the school made last year in remembrance of the 801 Tunbridge Wells men and women who fell in the First World War. The garden will become a beacon of reflection for the whole school community. Meanwhile Beacon Academy students were
MARK OF RESPECT: Beacon Academy students (above) and right St Gregory’s Garden of Remembrance proud to play their part in Crowborough’s Royal British Legion Armistice Service on Monday November 11. Head Students, Oscar and Isabelle (Year 11) along with Year 7 student, Esther, performed a poignant reading of ‘In Flanders Fields’, the poem by John McCrae which inspired the use of
PERFECT PIANIST Sherman Yip TONBRIDGE School music scholar Sherman Yip has gained the highest mark in the world following his IGCSE Music exams. In recognition of his impressive feat, Sherman, who is in the Lower Sixth, has received a Cambridge Top in the World award. This prestigious accolade is made by examining board CAIE (Cambridge Assessment International Education) to those learners who achieved the highest standard mark in the world for a single subject. An accomplished pianist and singer, Sherman is a member of the school’s Chapel Choir. His IGCSE examination included composing, performing and completing a written and listening paper which places music in its historical and cultural context. Mark Forkgen, the school’s Director of Music, said that the award recognised Sherman’s talent, dedication, commitment and attention to detail as a performer, composer and musicologist.
HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT WORKING IN EDUCATION? Or considered a career in teaching? The Skinners’ Kent Academy Trust prides itself in being a popular choice for parents and students from Reception to Year 11 and the Sixth Form in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. The Academy Trust aims to raise and reflect aspirations within the local community and our innovative and distinctly internationally focussed curriculum sets the Trust apart from many other schools, along with our outstanding state-of-the-art facilities. Our successful and stimulating Academy Trust offers a variety of training opportunities and avenues to support getting into teaching. Due to continued growth, we have a variety of new and exciting career opportunities for both The Skinners’ Kent Academy and Skinners’ Kent Primary School. We are committed to recruiting the highest calibre of staff to all areas; teaching, administration and support and we are currently looking to recruit to: The Skinners’ Kent Primary School
Receptionist, Administrator
The Skinners’ Kent Academy
Teacher of Science Senior Science Technician Science Technician Teaching Assistant Examinations Officer
To find out more about working with us and for further information on all our vacancies, job packs and application process, please visit our websites www.skinnerskentacademy.org.uk or www.skinnerskentprimaryschool.org.uk Email: info@skinnerskentacademy.org.uk | t: 01892 534377
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NEWS
Weekly Comment
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019 During the General Election we are publishing political columns by all parliamentary candidates for Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge & Malling
Antonio Weiss
Dr Antonio Weiss has been selected as the Labour parliamentary candidate for the Tunbridge Wells constituency in the 2019 General Election. Antonio is an experienced Labour activist and currently serves as councillor and Cabinet member on Harrow Council in north-west London. He is a campaigner and advisor to public services, international best-selling author, and company founder and director
Tunbridge Wells candidate for the Labour Party
GENERAL ELECTION
2019
Only Labour will heal and unite our country WITH deep family ties here it’s a huge privilege to be standing to be your next MP. I hope you’ll have seen my election video doing the rounds on social media – do reach out for any questions. But now I want to write to you about the most important decision you will make in a generation. This election is about the defining question of our age: About something even bigger than Brexit. The seismic question is: “How did we become such a divided country, fractured across the lines of a foolishly presented EU referendum, and what do we do to get out of this mess?” Only Labour is answering that question. Brexit is a symptom of a much more pernicious disease. The disease has three characteristics and Labour has a healing and transformational plan for each of them. First, austerity. The Conservative and Lib Dems – contrary to the advice of Nobel Prize-winning economists – made a political choice to inflict austerity and misery on millions. In Tunbridge Wells, there are now 13 food banks, the largest of which serves nearly 5,000 meals a year; child poverty is at 22 per cent; fuel poverty is nearly ten per cent. Labour will end the need for food banks, abolish poverty and in-work poverty, and end homelessness. Second, the decimation of manufacturing. For 79 years until 1968, the High Brooms Brick & Tile Company by the train station was part of a
country that proudly made things. But in a few generations we became an economy that was overwhelmingly reliant on the services sector; skewed towards London. It’s no surprise those worst hit by deindustrialisation voted most strongly to leave the EU. Labour will transform our economy, rebalancing it for the better as part of our Green Industrial Revolution which will make millions of sustainable, green jobs.
and anti-democratic move against the millions who voted to leave. Only Labour is promising the democratic option of a people’s vote. We cannot heal our divided country through a hard Brexit, or by saying ‘b****cks to Brexit’ to
the 45 per cent of our neighbours in Tunbridge Wells who voted to leave. We need to heal our divisions. As tolerant, caring, and decent people I believe you agree. And that’s why I’m asking for your vote on Thursday December 12.
Critical Third, the disenfranchisement of millions. Since the 2000s, voter turnout at general elections has languished around 50-60 per cent (and in EU and local elections – an inadequate guide to general election results which is why tactical voting sites are split on what to do here – it is usually in the 30s). Millions feel without a ‘voice’. The EU referendum was the largest ever electoral turnout in Britain: People wanted to be heard because they felt they had been ignored before. This is critical. Because the continued Tory vision of a hard Brexit disenfranchises all those who voted Remain and threatens an economic catastrophe. But just as divisively, the Lib Dems’ promise to revoke Brexit would be an illiberal
Richard Morris
LABOUR MOVEMENT: Tunbridge Wells Labour Party at the launch of their 2019 campaign last week
Liberal Democrat candidate for Tonbridge & Malling
Richard Morris is the Tonbridge & Malling parliamentary candidate for the Liberal Democrats. Richard is an Oxford graduate, founding member of Invicta Radio and governor of Kent Music. He has lived in Edenbridge with his family for more than 30 years, during which time he has served as a trustee to a number of educational and arts charities. He is also on the committee of the West Kent European Movement
The challenges we face aren’t due to the EU THE General Election called for December 12 is dominated by Brexit. The election is only happening because Boris Johnson knew his Brexit deal would not survive full Parliamentary scrutiny. But, far more importantly, Brexit is the biggest political issue for the UK since 1945. Every area of policy, be it the economy, foreign affairs, the environment, health, education, social security or whatever, will be profoundly affected by whether or not we leave the European Union. Some will argue the decision has already been taken through the 2016 referendum. But after three and a half years it has proved impossible to find a deal which is acceptable to Parliament. And let us not forget that ‘restoring the sovereignty of Parliament’ was the core argument on the Leave side. Parliament is not ‘at war’ with the people any more than the UK is ‘at war’ with the EU. Representative democracy demands that MPs use their own judgement and act in the best national interest. And Brexit is not a war, it is a retreat. The one benefit from the discord of the past three and a half years is that we now know what a Brexit deal would look like. Every possible version of Brexit has been stress-tested almost
to destruction and the Johnson version has emerged. Unlike in 2016, Remain can now be compared with a real Leave choice. This is why I believe there should be a further referendum. My experience from constant canvassing in Tonbridge over the past two weeks is of deep anxiety about the path we are treading. Many people are confused and long for restoration of decency, clarity and collaboration in public affairs. So much has deteriorated since the 2016 referendum that we are now in a state of national crisis. The outcome of Brexit will be to perpetuate this crisis for at least a decade while the UK struggles, from a much weakened position, to negotiate new relationships with Europe and the rest of the world. In Kent we will suffer particular environmental and transport hardship due to the unique importance of the port of Dover and our motorways. Conversely, a decision to Stop Brexit ends the crisis and enables the UK:
■ to avoid a divorce bill of £39billion ■ to have no hard border in Ireland or the Irish Sea
■ to have free access to the world’s largest market for all our goods and services
CANVASSING Richard meeting the people of Tonbridge
■ to participate in existing beneficial trade deals
■ to play a leading role in the shaping of
across the world ■ to participate in the coordination of international security, climate change, medicines, chemicals, nuclear materials and air transport ■ to have secure markets for our agricultural products and fish ■ to ensure our citizens can live, travel, work and study freely within 27 neighbouring countries; and
Europe’s future As Liberal Democrats, we believe that the challenges we face are home-grown and are not due to our membership of the EU. We stand ready not just to Stop Brexit, but also to respond to these challenges by applying the massive Remain bonus in improving public services across the board.
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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VISIT OUR LAST SHOW HOME OPEN EVENT FOR 2019 AT KINGSDOWN MEADOW Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd November
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VISIT OUR LAST SHOW HOME OPEN EVENT FOR 2019 AT KINGSDOWN MEADOW
Kingsdown Meadow is a stunning new residential park exclusively for over 45’s in a tranquil and picturesque location. Whether you’ve already been to Kingsdown Meadow or are still yet to visit, now is the perfect time to come along and see just how far we have come. You will be able to get a real flavour of just how peaceful it is, how the homes will be situated, the open aspects and gardens that surround the homes and the spaces that have been allocated for buyers to choose their preferred plot. With four stunning show homes open, viewing is essential to appreciate the quality and standard of these beautiful homes.
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Best property buys for...
The Gables
We all love to see homes with the ‘wow’ factor – which could apply to the kitchen, reception room, garden, or something else. Sarah Bond homes in on specific aspects that make these properties well worth a look…
£425,000
The BATHROOM...
Argos Hill Nr Rotherfield GUIDE PRICE
CONTACT • Knight Frank, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 515035 • knightfrank.co.uk A golden opportunity to buy a three-bedroom period apartment full of character at a great price. Arranged over three floors, it forms a major portion of a fine Victorian country house with views, and lies between the villages of Mark Cross, Rotherfield and Mayfield. The bigger towns of Crowborough and Tunbridge Wells are five miles and seven miles away, respectively. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
n Kitchen/dining room with period features, including an inglenook fireplace, beams and polished wood floor
n Elegant first floor drawing room overlooking the gardens, featuring an open fireplace with ornate surround
n Master bedroom with fitted storage n 2 further bedrooms, one with an en-suite shower, one with fitted storage
n Family bathroom n Top floor study n Loft space accessed by an automatic staircase and currently used as a dressing room
n Communal gardens with wide expanses of lawn and a large area of woodland
n Private garage
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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The PRICE…
The KITCHEN…
Hoppers Cottage Mile Oak Road, Brenchley GUIDE PRICE
£725,000 CONTACT • Savills, Cranbrook • 01580 720161 • savills.co.uk A pretty Grade II-listed, semi-detached home.
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Sitting room n Open-plan kitchen/dining/family room n Playroom n Utility room and cloakroom n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom
Church Road Pembury
n 3 further bedrooms and a bathroom n Established garden n Garage and off-road parking
ASKING PRICE
£600,000 CONTACT • Barnes Kingsnorth, Pembury • 01892 822880 • bkestateagents.com A light, bright detached house that has been renovated and extended by the current owners to a very high standard, with the stunning kitchen/diner/family room being the main hub of the home. The property lies in a residential road within a short walk of the primary school. It is close to Downingbury Farm Shop and woodland walks, and is just over 3.5 miles from Tunbridge Wells. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
n Spacious entrance hall with a high ceiling and exposed brick wall
n Good sized sitting room n Kitchen/diner/family room with multi-fuel burner, solid oak counter tops and flooring and doors to the garden. Plus separate utility space
n Cloakroom and WC n Master bedroom with built-in wardrobes and en-suite shower room
n 3 further double bedrooms n Family bathroom fitted with a modern white suite
n Good sized level garden with lawn, a large decked patio and a brick-built patio, plus a timber workshop and store
n Wide driveway to the front of the property able to accommodate several cars
Romford Road Pembury OFFERS IN EXCESS OF
£780,000
CONTACT • Barnes Kingsnorth, Pembury • 01892 822880 • bkestateagents.com A bungalow in a village location with superb outlooks, character and plenty of potential, subject to consents. It comes with nigh on six acres of land, so could be ideal for equestrians.
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Entrance hall with areas of exposed stone n Sitting room with beams, woodburner and French doors to terrace n Kitchen/dining room and utility room n 4 double bedrooms and a bathroom n Gardens, including vegetable and herb plots, polytunnel and bluebell woodland, plus wild flower meadow and paddock n Drive with gated entrance and parking n Outbuildings n Approaching 6 acres (to be verified)
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Redgate Mill
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Idyllic mill house overlooking a mill stream, with annexe, paddock, pond… and pillbox AT A GLANCE REDGATE MILL REDGATE MILL LANE ERIDGE GREEN n A beautiful three-bedroom converted mill house full of period character with modern fittings n Main reception rooms on first floor n Sitting room n Dining room n Family room/study n Kitchen/breakfast room n Ground floor bedroom and separate shower room n 2 second floor bedrooms and a family bathroom n Detached one-bedroom holiday cottage/annexe n Outbuildings and garaging, currently including a workshop and a gym/office n Attractive gardens edging the mill stream n 1-acre paddock with pond and interesting WWII pillbox
GUIDE PRICE £950,000-£1,000,000 CONTACT • Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 701900 • fineandcountry.com
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Property Focus NEW H OMES
Award-winning converted villa apartments in a stylish road close to Tunbridge Wells centre A SUPERB selection of imaginative, sustainable apartments are for sale in a beautifully restored traditional villa that has recently won a Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society Award. Lansdowne Villa is in a prime location in Tunbridge Wells in pretty Lansdowne Road, which is within a conservation area and also within walking distance of the town centre. Converted by Sevenoaks-based Stonehouse Regeneration Ltd, the apartments range from a one bedroom unit to two duplexes, with prices from £295,000 to £795,000.
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST: ■ 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments in a period villa with a communal lift ■ Most apartments have open-plan kitchen/living areas, but some have separate kitchen and living rooms ■ Each property has access to a balcony or outdoor terrace from the kitchen or sitting room
■ Custom designed downlighters and table lamps
■ Private allocated parking
■ Full wiring for Wi-Fi and satellite TV, plus alarm systems
■ Half a mile to Tunbridge Wells Station
■ Most apartments have low-energy electric slimline panel heaters, while the two duplex units have underfloor heating ■ Enclosed communal garden laid to lawn with seating area
■ Bike store and refuse shed
CONTACT • Maddisons Residential Tunbridge Wells • 01892 514100 • maddisonsresidential.co.uk • Developer website: regenerate.land
AVAILABLE TO BUY
■ Contemporary kitchens fitted with integral Bosch appliances
Apartments in Lansdowne Villa Lansdowne Road, Tunbridge Wells
■ Bathrooms and en suites are by Nicholls and Clarke, with oversize ceramic tiles offering a contemporary feel
Apartment 1: 2 bedrooms, lower ground floor, £450,000
■ Carpeted bedrooms, most with built-in wardrobes
Apartment 2: 2 bedrooms, lower ground floor, £500,000
■ Living areas fitted with oak flooring
Apartment 3: 1 bedroom, upper ground floor, £295,000
■ Bespoke timber double-glazed sash windows by Arden
CIVIC SUCCESS L-R: Stonehouse Regeneration’s Louise Hayward and Miles Hayward, The Mayor, architect Stephen Langer and Stonehouse Regeneration’s Trevor Nicholson
Apartment 5: 2 bedrooms, first floor, £470,000 Apartment 6: 2 bedrooms, first floor, £470,000 Apartment 7: 2 bedrooms, second floor, £450,000 Duplex 1: 2 bedrooms, £650,000 Duplex 2: 3 bedrooms, £795,000
Cosy up this winter in a home from KMJ Property
www.kmjproperty.co.uk
01892 515188
sales@kmjproperty.co.uk
KENT
TN12 9EF
W I T H A N E W C O U N T RYS I D E H O M E
FOUR STUNNING SHOW HOMES OPEN TO VIEW at Kingsdown Meadow Residential Park
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Omar Ikon fully furnished, 2 Bedroom Home (40ft x 20ft) £275,000
Call us FREE on 0800 644 4499 to arrange your viewing
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Find us at Kingsdown Meadow Residential Park
Romney Street, Knatts Valley, Sevenoaks, TN15 6XW
Call us FREE on 0800 644 4499 to arrange your viewing
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
Tuning up for a fine performance Ahead of this Saturday’s Dvořák Stabat Mater concert by the Tonbridge Philharmonic Society interim Musical Director Matthew Scott Rogers tells the Times how he’s tuning up for a truly noteworthy evening… unfurls a single musical idea that, over the span of an hour, carries the listener from numbness, through grief to eventual grace. It’s an incredibly rounded and wholesome work. What do you think the audience will enjoy most about the concert? Hopefully they’ll have a profoundly moving experience. You don’t have to understand Latin or be a believer to feel the emotion coursing through this work, so I’d encourage anyone to come and just soak in the music and the story. Please come and tell me how you felt afterwards.
MATTHEW SCOTT ROGERS will be conducting Saturday’s TPS concert
So Matthew, please can you tell us a little bit about yourself? I’m a conductor and composer from Penzance in Cornwall. I’ve spent the past few years on the conducting staff of the Royal Opera House, as well as assisting conductors at the London Philharmonic and BBC orchestras, and am now making my way in the wider world. You’ve had the privilege of working at the Royal Opera House. What have you enjoyed most about this? Getting to watch and hear some of the world’s best artists at work on a daily basis changed my perception of what music can and should be. I’ve had some really amazing experiences, from witnessing the incredible detail in which Sir Antonio Pappano and the orchestra of the Royal Opera House work, to seeing singers dissolve into emotion on stage and take the whole audience with them. It has ignited in me a desire to feel and create with an intensity that I hadn’t realised was possible, and that I’ll continue searching for a long while yet…” Given the situation with the recent change in conductors at the Tonbridge Philharmonic Society [TPS], how have you maintained stability with the musicians? In this industry guest conducting is part of a conductor’s life. Sometimes you go when the ensemble is searching for a music director, sometimes just when they need a change of scene. Either way it’s a bit like a first date, they’re looking at you and you’re looking at them, each trying to suss the other out. The most important thing is just to be yourself, to stay true to your own standards and beliefs, and to be consistent. That’s how I’ve approached this concert. I’ve worked in my own way and set my own pace, and thankfully everyone’s come along for the ride. I’m really pleased with what we’ve managed to achieve.
What are you looking forward to most about conducting the TPS on Saturday? I think the experience of performing the Stabat Mater in the Chapel of St Augustine, Tonbridge School, will be a beautiful one. I really believe that the aesthetic of the venue has a big impact on an audience’s sensory experience, and it doesn’t get much better than combining Dvorak’s astonishing music with such a poignant text in a magnificent vaulted space. Can you tell us about the concert and the work to be performed? The Stabat Mater is a 13th-century hymn that portrays Mary as she beholds the crucified Jesus. The first words are Stabat Mater Dolorósa juxta Crucem lacrimósa (“The grieving mother stood weeping at the foot of the Cross”). The composer James James MacMillan calls it a sort of ‘Kindertotenlied’ – a song on the death of a child – a concept which has fuelled composers’ imaginations throughout the ages and has created the most intensely emotional music. Dvorak’s setting goes beyond mere description. It gradually and sparingly
You’re also conducting the TPS Christmas Carol concert in the Chapel of St Augustine on Saturday December 14. Can you give us an idea of what’s in store for this seasonal event? I can promise three of my all-time favourite carols sung by candlelight, then a good sing with mince pies and mulled wine. If that’s not enough, then I don’t know what is! What are your plans for 2020? Next year is looking like my busiest year yet, which is really exciting, and I can’t wait to get started. As a composer I have two works being premiered early in the year, a song cycle at the Royal Opera House in March followed by an orchestral piece at the top of a new New York skyscraper. Then at the end of the year I’ll be unveiling a work in my hometown in Cornwall commemorating the tragic loss of the Penlee lifeboat on December 19, 1981, which will be very special. In between I’ll be conducting at various opera houses in Copenhagen, Germany and the USA, and am back working at Grange Park Opera and the Royal Opera House. All in all, I think I’m away from home for six months straight, so I’m especially looking forward to conducting an opera on a beach in Cornwall over the summer – watch this space. For more information, or to book tickets for the concert this Saturday, November 23 at 7.30pm, visit tonphil.org.uk
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‘I think this will really resonate and show us how far women’s rights have come in such a short time’ Tunbridge Wells Operatic and Dramatic Society [TWODS] will be performing their version of Made in Dagenham, The Musical, at the Assembly Hall From November 26. Here, its Director, David Street, tells Eileen Leahy about it
A
FTER the enormous success of TWODS’ production of Legally Blonde earlier this year it was clear that the amateur dramatic theatre group, which has been going since 1889, had to come up with something pretty special to see 2019 out in style. Their choice? The musical version of Made in Dagenham, the 2010 film which starred the late Bob Hoskins alongside Sally Hawkins and Miranda Richardson, which dramatised the plight of the Ford Motor Company machinists who went on strike in 1968 to strive for equal pay. The film was such a success it opened as a musical in 2014 in London’s Adelphi Theatre and now TWODS are bringing this iconic and uplifting tale of unified strength and unerring friendship to Tunbridge Wells.
‘Despite resistance, they eventually help to pass the Equal Pay Act of 1970 that women still benefit from today’ “As well as Made In Dagenham being hilariously funny with compelling characters and West End-worthy performances, we chose this show as it mirrors our current political and economic climate in a lot of ways, “ explains David Street, the show’s director. “It’s about people banding together and standing up for what they believe in which will resonate with a lot of people out there.” David says he had already seen the show and knew it could work for TWODS. “I thought it was superb. Being an Essex boy, born and bred in the 1960s, it makes me feel quite humble to have the opportunity to direct a show that retells such a poignant time in history for all women.” For those not familiar with the storyline it tells the tale of Rita O’Grady and the women of the Ford motor factory in Dagenham who despite performing the specialised task of sewing upholstery for car seats, were classified by management as ‘unskilled labour’ and therefore paid just 87% of the equivalent male wage. As a result Rita decides to kick back and rallies her fellow machinists to stand up for equality and so they go on strike – and risk losing everything as a result. “It begins as a fight for equal pay but quickly becomes a fight for ALL women across the UK,” continues David. “Despite resistance from Ford management, the British government and even their husbands, who get fired as a penalty for the girls’ actions, they eventually help to pass the Equal Pay Act of 1970 that women still benefit from today. “I think this show will really resonate with all women out there and show us how far women’s rights have come in such a short time. Also, no matter your sex, age, race or creed, never be afraid to stand up and be heard. Speak up for what you believe in because if it isn’t challenged,
FORD VS FACTORY Workers go on the defensive nothing ever changes.” David says the musical version does have ‘a few twists and turns’ that do not take place in the film and that audiences will really enjoy all the additional ‘amazing musical performances’ this show has to offer. So what are the challenges with putting a performance like this on the stage? “Well it calls for a large cast and that is always the first challenge to overcome.
Then it’s figuring out how best to tell the story, how to make it as visually appealing as possible and how to utilise everyone’s strengths. Another of course is to make the scene changes as seamless as possible! Thankfully we have a fantastic stage management team that have risen to the challenge and so we have a really special show on our hands.”
ON STRIKE TWODS’ cast of machinists
Made in Dagenham, The Musical is on at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from November 26-30. For tickets and timings, visitassemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
Fantastic Auditions were held back in July and rehearsals began at the end of August. Since then David says the cast has been working tirelessly to get the show pitch perfect. “It’s a lot of work and feels like a long process but it is so worth it when we hear such amazing feedback from our fantastic audiences!” And how easy is it to cast people in the right role? “You just know, you get a special feeling,” David acknowledges. “Their performance makes you laugh, cry, scowl or shout. After that, it can be a bit of a jigsaw puzzle piecing everyone else together, but we have really hit the jackpot with our cast. They are fantastic and Tunbridge Wells is in for a treat! “I have always said the only difference between a fantastic amateur production and a professional one is that the pros are being paid. There is no difference to the quality of performance other than it being said by some of our audience members that a lot of our TWODS performers are as good as, if not better, than some West End performers. “The choreography in our interpretation of Made in Dagenham is slick and the swinging 60s vibe is fun and, as with all TWODS shows, everybody is having a blooming good time – and we promise you will, too!”
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goingout 7 days of activities
WEDNESDAY The Royal Tunbridge Wells Art Society’s Winter Exhibition features a variety of works by both amateur and professional artists and can be seen until December 1. It is free to attend. but opening times vary. For more information, go to rtwas.org You can still catch menacing Macbeth in the Victorian theatre at Salomons Estate this week. Follow the ambitious Scottish Lord Macbeth as he turns from celebrated war hero to bloody tyrant. FORESTRY ENGLAND BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CAA PRESENTS:
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By Jerome Bowman
It stars Peter Basham and, up till today, Doctor Who’s Louise Jameson, amongst others. The production is the first by The Shakespeare Project and will run until Sunday [November 24]. To book tickets, go online to theshakespeareproject.co.uk THURSDAY Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet will be screened tonight at the Kino Cinema in Hawkhurst. The acclaimed reimagining uses dance to bring the play to life, telling the story of the starcross’d lovers and their far from uneventful relationship. Bourne’s prolific career in dance has earnt him an OBE, and his new show was described by The Guardian as ‘full of insight and invention’. Tickets cost £20 and can be booked online at kinodigital.co.uk FRIDAY Straight shooting Mock the Week veteran Andy Parsons is bringing his new show Healing the Nation to Trinity Theatre. Andy will not be beating about the bush. In his signature nononsense style, lacerating all that is topical, he might even mention the B word. But his biggest message is that: “We will be all right. Trust me. I’m not a politician.” Tickets for the show, which starts at 8pm, cost £19 and can be booked at trinitytheatre.net
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
Enjoy an evening of amazing jazz at St Alban’s Church when Music in Frant presents top guitarist John Etheridge in concert with leading violinist Chris Garrick. Doors open at 7.30pm, and tickets, which cost £16, are available from Frant Stores, Brittens Music Shop, by phone on 07950 286864 or online at wegottickets.com or ents24.com SATURDAY Mulled wine, mince pies and more than 70 curated stalls will be open at the Chiddingstone Castle Christmas Fair today from 10am to 4pm. Both inside the castle and in the outdoor heated marquee, you will find unique Christmas gifts, decorations and artisan food and drink – just try not to eat it all before you get home! Entry to the fair costs £7 on the door. For more information, visit chiddingstonecastle.org.uk Join the Tonbridge Philharmonic Society for their November Choral Concert Dvorak: Stabat Mater in The Chapel of St Augustine at Tonbridge School. Dvorak’s
STRIKE FORCE Made in Dagenham at The Assembly Hall
MADE WREATH LOVE Give this a try at at The Hotel du Vin popular religious composition will be conducted by former Royal Opera House conductor Matthew Scoot Rogers, and features soloists Helena Dix, Sophie Dicks, Christopher Turner and Dawid Kimberg. Tickets cost £17 for adults with concessions available. To book, go online to tonphil.org.uk The Independent Farmers’ Market is on once again in Market Square from 9am till 4pm. It will feature a range of locally-sourced fresh produce, plants and hot food, as well as artisanal goods and wines. For more information, look them up on Facebook or email the organisers at: tunbridgewellsfarmersmarket @gmail.com SUNDAY Dine like it’s the 1960s again, but without a hippie in sight (probably), on the High Weald Belle Luncheon & Dining Train at The Spa Valley Railway. Board at Eridge Station at 12noon before setting off in the restored 1960s-style carriages for a three-course Christmas Sunday lunch served by uniformed waiting staff. To find out more, and to book, visit spavalleyrailway.co.uk
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Going Out
CORNISH FISHING See Ian Kesterton’s work at the RTWAS Exhibition in The Pantiles
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PICK OF THE WEEK:
Revelations Bavarian Curling SKATE Tunbridge Wells Calverley Grounds, Tunbridge Wells Open every day until January 5
MONDAY See the light show at Bedgebury National Pinetum from today until December 30. The park will be illuminated by colourful light displays, including a vortex tunnel and hundreds of colourful water lights, so you can pretend you’re LOVE WILL TEAR US APART See Matthew Bourne’s dance production of Romeo and Juliet at The Kino Cinema
flying to Jupiter in 2001: A Space Odyssey. To keep yourself warm for the journey, grab a mulled wine or hot chocolate, and there are traditional Victorian fairground rides for the children to enjoy, too. For more information and to book tickets, go to bedgeburypinetum.org.uk
SLAP HEAD See Andy Parsons at Trinity Theatre
New to the ice skating event this year is a separate rink for Bavarian Curling, known as Eisstockschießen in German, a centuries old sport that hasn’t aged a bit. Work with your team to get as close to the target as you can, and you don’t need a special mop or to be Bavarian to join in. When you start to feel a little frozen, head to the Apple & Cor for hot food or the Polar Bar for a winterwarmer. A session costs £50 to book and you can bring a party of between two and eight people. For more information and to get tickets, go to assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
TUESDAY Join local florist Sharon Wood for some Christmas Wreath Making at the Hotel Du Vin. Starting at 7pm, she will take you through the whole process, from making a circle of tree to adding the desiccated bits of other plants, with plenty of Christmas flair. Mulled wine and mince pies will also be served. Tickets cost £45 at hotelduvin.com TWODS bring their latest production to the Assembly Hall Theatre tonight at 7.30pm. Made in Dagenham is based on a true story about a group of female sewing machinists who went on strike against the Ford Motor Company over unequal pay. In a tale of friendship and love with catchy tunes, Ria O’Grady and her friends show us how to stand up for our rights. The show runs until November 30 and tickets, which cost £21.75, can be booked at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
GruB & LIquOr Christmas 2 Courses £22.99 3 Courses £25.99 Includes a glass of fizz
Christmas Lunch from £17.99 Buffet party menu £12.99 Includes a glass of fizz
dj & disco party every weekend in December
Book christmas dinner by the end of october and receive a complimentary bottle of prosecco for every 6 guests
function room Available for large parties
new years Eve Cocktail party 31st december
01892 457899 hello@grubandliquor.co.uk 9 nevill street, tunbridge wells, tn2 5ru
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FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Isabella Coulstock, Orfila, Rattlesnake Hearts Friday Salsadelic Saturday Groove Agents Sunday Jennifer Lee Ridley, Ian Knapp Tuesday Nate Austin Residency
live music With Paul Dunton
G
REAT Wednesday night gigs include renowned blues musician Claude Bourbon at The Anchor Inn and, fresh from supporting Jools Holland, up-and-coming country star Isabella Coulstock at The Grey Lady with support from Orfila and Rattlesnake Hearts. The Forum hosts the excellent False Advertising with The Polygons and Sheena supporting. This Thursday evening, The Forum Winter Sessions return to The Ice Rink in Calverley Grounds with Meg Lawrenson, India Fraser-Attewell and Sean Fennessey. Top picks for Friday include Sorrel Nation at Delaney’s, Super Duper & The Ya Yaa’s at The Bedford, John Etheridge & Chris Garrick at St Alban’s Church, Sports Team at The Forum
The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… paulduntonandguests.com
with support from Alfie Templeman, and acclaimed Fleetwood Mac tribute Rhiannon at The Stag Theatre. Saturday night’s superb acts include The Second Helpin’ at The Beau Nash, Groove Agents at The Grey Lady, Sound of The Sirens at The Royal Oak and Junkyard Rocket at The Bedford. Aretha Franklin fans should go to The Assembly Hall for The Aretha Franklin Songbook, and fans of Adele can enjoy a tribute show at Crowborough Community Centre. CLT DRP are at The Sussex Arms Basement, the Local & Live Sessions return to Trinity Theatre with Infrared and my orchestra, and Tonbridge Philharmonic Orchestra are at Tonbridge School. On Sunday, Jennifer Lee Ridley and Ian Knapp are at The Grey Lady.
THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM The Common Information and tickets at twforum.co.uk Wednesday False Advertising, The Polygons, Sheena Friday Sports Team, Alfie Templeman Saturday Boogie Nights ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Crescent Road Information and tickets at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Wednesday East Sussex Music and East Sussex Schools Present The Big Sing for 2019 in collaboration with Glyndebourne Saturday Respect: The Aretha Franklin Songbook THE ANCHOR INN London Road, Sevenoaks Free entry, music from 8pm Wednesday Blues with Bottle Presents: Claude Bourbon
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
DELANEY’S RESTAURANT Camden Road Music from 8.30pm, book on 01892 528626 Friday Sorrel Nation CHAPEL OF ST AUGUSTINE Tonbridge School Tickets at tonphil.org.uk/concerts Friday Tonbridge School Symphony Orchestra: A Viennese Symphony Saturday Tonbridge Philharmonic: Dvorak’s Stabat Mater THE STAG THEATRE Sevenoaks Tickets at stagsevenoaks.co.uk Friday Rhiannon: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Saturday The Henry Desmond Orchestra THE BEDFORD PUB 2 High Street Free entry, music from 8.30pm Information at thebedfordtw.co.uk Friday Super Duper & The Ya Yaa’s Saturday Junkyard Rocket ST ALBAN’S CHURCH Church Lane, Frant Tickets from Frant Stores, Brittens Music Shop, ents24.com or wegottickets.com
TRINITY THEATRE Church Road Tickets available at trinitytheatre.net Saturday Local & Live Sessions: Infrared, The Paul Dunton Orchestra THE SUSSEX ARMS BASEMENT Sussex Mews Tickets available at twforum.co.uk Saturday CLT DRP THE COMMUNITY CENTRE Crowborough Tickets available at eventbrite.co.uk Saturday Adele Tribute THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Second Helpin’ Sunday 7pm Jazz Jam with Bob Bernard ROSE HILL SCHOOL THEATRE Coniston Avenue Tickets at codatw.co.uk Sunday 3pm CODA: Ella Rundle (cello) & Miho Kawashima (piano) THE ROYAL OAK PUB Prospect Road Music from 7pm. Tickets at seetickets.com Saturday Sound of The Sirens (ticket only)
LIVE MUSIC AT THE ICE RINK Calverley Grounds Music from 7pm Thursday Meg Lawrenson, India Fraser-Attewell, Sean Fennessey MUSICSTATION Bank Street, Tonbridge Booking essential. Call 01732 350629 Thursday & Friday 8pm-9.30pm Adult band workshop, all levels welcome
Friday Music in Frant Presents John Etheridge and Chris Garrick in concert
THE TOAD ROCK RETREAT Upper Street Free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday Blues with Bottle Presents: Rag Mama Rag
Sean Fennessey
THE PUNCH & JUDY St Stephens Road, Tonbridge Free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday Mitch Feral & The Moveable Feast
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Gift Guide
FEATURES
51
Nectar collection Pendant. Diamond set 18ct rose gold and platinum £1,650 gcollinsandsons.com Exclusive Bentley jewellery wing pendant. Diamond set 18ct yellow gold and platinum £5,700 gcollinsandsons.com
Make frantic festive shopping a thing of Christmases past courtesy of the Times gift guide, which provides you with all the present inspiration you’ll need this year...
For Her Crystal Clear Serum £95 mirror-beauty.co.uk
A timely gift Handmade solid 18ct gold initial pendants £525 or £965 for Diamond set gcollinsandsons.com
Ladies. Ladies watch £89.99 micallefjewellers.com Moritz Grossmann – Tefnut Lady £22,800 davidcarpenterwatches.com
Graduated Diamond Circle Pendant. Total weight of Diamonds 0.56ct. 18ct white gold £2,650 gcollinsandsons.com
Crystal Clear AntiAgeing Moisturizer £65 mirror-beauty.co.uk
We pick the best watches
Beauty Sleep Elixir £47 Beuti beutiskincare.com Rolex preowned Ladies Watch £5,335 Oyster Date gabriellajewellery.co.uk
The 18ct Butterfly Diamond Pendant contains 0.74cts of round Diamonds £4,110 gabriellajewellery.co.uk
Hamilton – Valiant, H39211194 £1,020 davidcarpenterwatches.com
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FEATURES
Gift Guide
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
For Kids
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
Polo Ralph Lauren, Boys Black & Red Wool Sweater £115 at childrensalon.com Kissy Kissy, Pima Cotton Christmas Babygrow £30 at childrensalon.com
Joules, Red Check Flannel Babygrow £28 at childrensalon.com Nutcracker Teddy £250 Steiff steiff.com
ers For Home Lov
Le Vingt-Neuf in a Polished finish. The bath is Cast Iron £9,000 (incl VAT) catchpoleandrye.com
Kissy Kissy, Red Velour 1st Christmas Hat £12 at childrensalon.com Original Art Deco gilded Lamp with geometric shade, circa 1930s - 1940s £595 designgallery.co.uk
Roberts Radio Retro Speaker £179.99 John Lewis, johnlewis.com
Breathe, Giclee Print, 310gms German Etching Paper, Print by iaysha Salih £80 iaysha-art.com arthubgallery.co.uk
The Copper Bateau 1700mm with An Antique Copper Exterior and Silver Nickel Interior £6,600 (incl VAT) catchpoleandrye.com
Gift Guide
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
FEATURES
Santos de cartier watch medium model, automatic, steel, interchangeable metal and leather bracelets Ref: wssa0010 £5,600 gcollinsandsons.com
For Him
London Golf Club Green Fee Voucher From £79 londongolf.co.uk London Golf Club Academy Lesson Voucher From £30 londongolf.co.uk
Hamilton - Spirit Of Liberty H42415801 £865 davidcarpenterwatches.com
Andrew Martin Interior Design Review Vol. 23 £45 Andrew Martin andrewmartin.co.uk
Diesel Neopulse Spinner £299 Samsonite samsonite.com
Gents watch £99.99 micallefjewellers.com
Mont Blanc Explorer £33 for 30ml Fragrance Shop fragranceshop.co.uk
Freeman leather lace-up ankle boots £125 The Original Muck Boot Company muckbootcompany.co.uk
Sorrento backgammon board game £395 Jonathan Adler jonathanadler.com
Gore-tex men’s rain coat £259.99 Kathmandu kathmandu.co.uk
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Life&Times
food
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Food & Drink FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
It’s time to spread the foodie word about Chapter One… Going a tad further afield, Eileen Leahy travels down memory lane to dine out at Locksbottom restaurant Chapter One, and reveals why it’s well worth making the journey up the A21 to taste its delights
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PEACOCK STYLE The décor is a nod to the eaterie’s previous name, The Fantail
HEN I was growing up, my parents used to dine out on very special occasions at The Fantail restaurant in Locksbottom, near Farnborough. It was the place to go if you wanted exceptional food, a decent wine list and excellent service this side of the capital during the 1970s and 80s. Fast forward a few decades to the mid-90s, and The Fantail became Chapter One. In 2000, Andrew McLeish arrived as Head Chef in its kitchen and managed to gain the establishment a Michelin star, only to lose it in 2015. Two years after that, Andrew and his business partner, Marcel Faulstich, decided to buy the business themselves, determined to put Chapter One back on the map – not just for its culinary offering, but also for that glamorous wow factor that was so innate in The Fantail’s heydays.
On arriving there one windswept Wednesday evening recently, any trace of the horribly wet weather we’ve battled through on the A21 to get there immediately trickles away. Inside, Chapter One is absolutely beautiful, with a décor reminiscent of the decadent 1920s – think glimmering glass, plush leather and velvet banquettes, oversized potted plants, statement geometric floor tiles and a colour scheme of inky navy, rich teal and sea green offset by gilt finishes – all of which is not too unlike a peacock’s fantail. It sort of feels like you’re stepping into the glamorous setting for an F Scott Fitzgerald novel. My dinner guest is my sister, and as we head towards the Art Nouveau-style bar area, where there are plenty of customers sipping cocktails, we are greeted by Marcel, who tells us that the restaurant has recently undergone a thorough refurbishment and that, yes, the peacock references are
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
DELICIOUS DELICACIES Right: Valrhona Dark Chocolate Marquise, Girotine Cherries and Cherry Sorbet Below (circled): Venison Carpaccio with Wiltshire Truffles, Parmesan Flakes and Truffle Dressing
indeed a nod to its days as The Fantail. But reminiscing aside, Marcel says that he, Andrew and their team are firmly focused on the future of Chapter One, stating that providing inspiring, impressive and frequently changing menus courtesy of the area’s best quality seasonal ingredients in both its chic and cosy brasserie and fine dining restaurant is a key aim.
‘The pastry is crisp and light and the blackberries are tangy… Despite saying we were full, our forks duel for the final morsel’ My sister and I have opted to put this to the test in the latter, which boasts an à la carte menu at the fixed price of £42.95 for three courses. One glance at what’s on offer and Chapter One’s gastro vision seems to be on track. A lot of the meat is from nearby Chart Farm in Sevenoaks and drinks are sourced from Westerham Brewery and Chapel Down. The dishes sound suitably intriguing, too –
pan fried gigha halibut served with turnip purée and deep fried courgette flower with goat’s cheese, romesco sauce and hazelnut dressing. In addition to the main menu, there’s also a specialist game-tasting one at the moment. Priced at £64.95, it boasts tempting gastro delights such as roast breast of grouse served with crispy pancetta and sloe gin sauce. From the main à la carte menu I choose the smoked haddock kedgeree served with curry mayonnaise, haddock arancini, crispy squid and raisin purée as my starter as I’m intrigued to see how this combination of flavours and textures will work. Thankfully, it’s a perfect partnership that achieves the right balance of silky, smoky fish with crunchy citrusy seafood morsels, further enhanced by the dabs of piquante mayo. My sister’s choice of Ballotine of Foie Gras
Food & Drink
and grouse confit served with crumbs of pain d’epice and damson jam is a sweet, soft and rich confection that’s gone all too quickly. Before the mains are served, our efficient and friendly waiter arrives with an amuse-bouche of mushroom Asian broth. It’s earthy and aromatic and certainly perks up the taste buds thanks to the hits of lemongrass and pungent seafood tortellino. We order two glasses of 2018 Andeluna 1300 Mendoza Malbec (£8.95) to accompany our next course as we’ve both chosen meat: Pressed and roasted lamb shoulder with roast rump, aubergine, braised baby gem and tahini yoghurt for me, and the roasted roebuck venison haunch with girolles, cavolo nero and venison pithivier – aka pastry – for my sister. We also order a couple of side dishes – tenderstem broccoli with olive oil and lemon and Pink Fir potatoes grilled
Life&Times
on the restaurant’s American Josper Grill. The meat is moist and intensely flavoursome, and if I have one criticism it’s that there’s just a little bit too much oil anointed on the sides. A little less and it would have been outstanding. Dessert is also included in Chapter One’s prix fixe menu and, although we’re both full to the brim by now, we decide to share a serving of the passion fruit mille-feuille served with poached Kentish Blackberries and a quenelle of blackberry sorbet. Like all our dishes, the presentation is exquisite. The pastry is crisp and light and the blackberries are tangy and a great palate cleanser. Despite saying we were full, we soon find our forks duelling for the final morsel. During our time dining at Chapter One we’ve been very well looked after and enjoyed some really interesting, tasty food that’s very reasonably priced and generously served. If the team continue to deliver to this high standard, then it’s fair to say that Chapter One will become a long-term bestseller.
NOD TO THE TWENTIES You could be entering a scene from an F Scott Fitzgerald novel
d
£ pe 1 rc 0 hi l
SANTA’S GROTTO Make Christmas extra special with a visit to Santa’s Grotto at Salomons Estate
l be open The Grotto wil : 10am - 4pm on th December Thursday 19th ember Friday 20 stDec ember ec Saturday 21nd D ember Sunday 22 rd Dec ecember Monday 23 D
Santa will be bringing some seasonal cheer to Salomons Estate as he opens up his cosy Christmas Grotto! Come and meet him and his hard-working elves as they take up residence in the beautiful grounds of the estate. To book call 01892 515152 or visit www.salomons-estate.com/events/whats-on/ EST ESTABLISHED
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Life&Times
travel
56
Travel
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
The Portuguese island promising
to deliver instant inner peace In need of a spot of ‘me time’ and restorative treatments, Gabrielle Fagan travels to Madeira – voted Europe’s leading island destination – for a wellbeing break
I
T’S sunrise, and my cares seem to float away as I lie on my back on a mountain in Madeira, listening to sticks gently beating on a drum simulating the noise of rain. My mind and spirit are being washed by a ‘sound bath’ where – instead of water – vibrations produced on instruments, from gongs and shamanic drums to chimes and shakers, aim to coax the brain into a relaxed, meditative state. “Immersion in beautiful sounds and vibrations can clear the chakras [centres of energy
within us] and soothe the body, mind and spirit,” promises Emilie Mangoni, an international yoga teacher who’s conducting my session, finishing with the potent auditory healing experience. The surroundings couldn’t be more peaceful – an idyllic glade in the heart of the Laurissilva Forest, which has origins said to date back 20 million years. Calm and healing experiences are what I crave. An overload of work and family problems have left me feeling low mentally and physically, and I’ve escaped to this isle to rescue my battered wellbeing. Unable to spare the time for a long holiday, all I have is three days to reboot my karma, which makes Madeira – a lush, beautiful giant rock in the Atlantic just off the west coast of Africa – the perfect destination. It’s only a three-and-a-half hour direct flight from London and is rapidly gaining a reputation as being ideal for a wellness break. It was recently named
Europe’s leading island destination 2019 by the World Travel Awards. So I’m hoping that its subtropical climate, spectacular mountain skylines, crystal clear waters and sandy beaches will instantly plunge me into sun-soaked serenity. My base is the lively, cosmopolitan capital Funchal. Facing the sea, it’s flanked by mountains behind, and is in the southern part of the island. On my first night, I’m enveloped in elegant luxury at the uber-contemporary Vine Hotel, located in the historic centre close to the marina. The island’s winemaking history is the inspiration for its interior design. Dark, moody settings feature materials such as volcanic rock contrasted with rich purple fabrics, while furniture has been crafted to resemble twisted vines. There are almost too many ways to relax, with an indoor pool, solarium and fitness centre. A spa offers a wide range of treatments, including vinotherapy: A red wine bath with antioxidant wine extracts promising skin and health benefits.
FORTE SAO TIAGO at sunset, in Funchal
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk During the 30-minute session, I doze off and reluctantly awake to extricate myself and lie on a lounger, to allow the absorption process to continue for a couple of hours, before I can shower and swim in one of the pools. Literally glowing inside and out, I leave the resort for lunch at a simple beachside café a few kilometres away. It’s a far cry from my normal lunchtime routine – a rushed sandwich at my desk. Here, I sit barefoot, listening to the sound of the waves and seabirds as I feast on freshly caught shellfish and finish with a Portuguese speciality, pasteis de nata (a custard tart). I’m able to enjoy maximum time on the island sunbathing and walking beside the shore by
A NATURAL TREASURE TROVE Monte Palace Tropical Gardens
‘Forte Sao Tiago hugs the shoreline and was built in 1614 to allow the residents to watch out for pirates’ cutting short the length of my return journey, thanks to Binter Airline’s new service, which returns me to Funchal in just 15 minutes. In the evenings, strolling through the charming Portuguese stone streets of Old Town Funchal, it’s fun spotting eye-catching front doors which local artists have imaginatively painted as part of a restoration project. What’s so notable in this city is the warm, laidback atmosphere wherever you go – day or night – as Madeira has long welcomed and cherished tourists. It’s one of the most popular stopovers for luxury cruises. My only stress is choosing which of the many bars and cafés to visit for a shot of Poncha – a local rum mixed with honey and lemon. To gain a sense of the history of this Portugese island, there’s no better place to visit than the yellow Forte Sao Tiago. It hugs the shoreline and was built in 1614 to allow the residents to watch out for pirates and potential invaders. Within its stone ramparts nestles the
£3 £1 2 c £ 7 hi 65 ch ld p ild ren er re 1 ad n 2a u 5 an nd lt d un un d de er r
After months of no ‘me time’, it’s blissful to laze on the rooftop beside the outdoor infinity pool gazing out at the view over the bay. Wrapped in thick white towels after a long swim, I can feel my muscles relaxing and tension falling away. Refreshed and more energised the next day, I take a two-and-a-half-hour sea trip by ferry to the tiny neighbouring island of Porto Santo. It’s dubbed Madeira’s sandy little sister because of the superb, uninterrupted 9km-long beach, which fringes its south side. My first experience here is another therapeutic bath – but in sand rather than in sound. The renowned Hot Sand Therapy (Psamotherapy) uses the island’s fine, silk sand, which is renowned for its health-boosting qualities. Rich in minerals, including calcium and magnesium, it also contains a natural anti-inflammatory, strontium. Buried up to my neck in hot, heavy sand in a wooden bathtub, I feel cocooned and totally relaxed. My sweat apparently releases minerals from the sand which my skin can absorb.
Sit back, relax and enjoy Christmas Day in the stunning surroundings of Bewl Water. AMUSE BOUCHE SPRING ONION, SMOKED CHEDDAR BEIGNETS Beetroot aioli (GF available) (V) STARTERS MAPLE SMOKED DUCK BREAST Pickled walnuts, clementine, watercress and pistachio salsa verde (GF) (N) SMOKED CHERRY TOMATO AND CREAMY BURRATA TART Crispy basil, pine nut pangrattato (V) (GF available) (N) CHILDREN’S FRUIT STICKS With a strawberry coulis (V) (GF) (DF) 01892 890000 www.bewlwater.co.uk – info.bewlwater.co.uk Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent, TN3 8JH
Life&Times
Travel
Restaurant Do Forte, and a gourmet dinner there by candlelight is an experience not to be missed. Afterwards, I join locals and tourists on the fort’s roof to view a spectacular fireworks show, one of many which take place throughout the year as companies compete for the privilege of lighting up the sky over Funchal on New Year’s Eve. My final two nights are spent at the Quintinha de Sao Joao hotel, which has the old-school charm of a rather grand Madeiran home, where the highly-personalised service makes you feel like an honoured member of the family rather than a guest. While I could have spent hours in the landscaped gardens surrounding it, and even longer in the spa where I had a super-soothing full-body massage, I don’t want to miss the opportunity for more exploring. For a bird’s-eye view of the city, I take a 15-minute cable car ride from the Old Town which lifts me nearly 2,000 feet up to the parish of Monte. It’s home to the intriguing Monte Palace Tropical Gardens, which boast 100,000 plant species from all over the world. Time slips by unnoticed as I wander, marvelling
at the quirky landscape of oriental temples, Buddha statues, and ornamental gardens. It’s all interspersed with lakes where koi carp glide beneath the surface and stately black swans glide elegantly on top, and the sound of fountains is the only noise disturbing the quiet. My Madeiran health trip has lifted my spirits and recharged me. My island escape – although brief – has worked wonders on my wellbeing. HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP To plan your own Madeira getaway, visit madeiraallyear.com British Airways flies from London Gatwick to Funchal from £47 each way, including taxes/fees/carrier charges britishairways.com Forest Yoga sessions with Emilie Mangoni start from E80/£69 per person. Visit emiliemangoni. com Doubles at the Vine Hotel start from E120/£103 per night with breakfast; doubles at Quintinha de Sao Joao start from E144/£124 per night with breakfast.
INTERNATIONAL PLANT LIFE The gardens are home to 100,000 plant species from all over the world
Please call 01892 89000 0 or visit www.bewlwa ter.co.uk for more info rmation or to book
at Bewl Water
MAINS ROASTED FREE RANGE TURKEY Chestnut stuffing, pancetta wrapped chipolata, seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes, turkey jus (GF available) (N) SPINACH, WILD MUSHROOM AND PUMPKIN WELLINGTON Herb and pink peppercorn sauce, seasonal roast vegetables, roast potatoes (GF available) (V) DESSERTS WARM CHRISTMAS PUDDING Brandy butter and crème Anglais (GF available) DARK CHOCOLATE TART Toasted Italian meringue, espresso Anglais (GF available) Tea/coffee with mini mince pies
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Life&Times
Motors
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Motoring News
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
This week… A new hybrid A new e-estate A new supercar
All-new Skoda Octavia has hybrid technology
SKODA has revealed its new Octavia with the debut of hybrid technology and a new look. Available in either hatchback or estate forms, the car takes on the firm’s latest corporate design. The result is thin LED headlights flanking a wide chrome-trimmed grille with simple body lines and an elegant rear end. There’s also more boot space thanks to the car’s increased dimensions and new ‘Simply Clever’ features, such as back seat smartphone storage pockets. Powering the car is a selection of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines. Though UK availability has yet to be confirmed,
expect to see the iV model, which pairs a 1.4-litre petrol engine to an electric motor. It’s also the first Skoda to use shift-by-wire for its DSG automatic transmission. This sees mechanical gear selection replaced with electronic controls, in turn translating to a smaller shift selector. Inside, the driver is met with a new two-spoke steering wheel design, featuring a new layout of buttons and scroll wheels. Plus the firm’s Active Info Display technology, which will incorporate Skoda’s new Laura digital assistant. USB-C ports are also dotted around the cabin. CHOICE The Octavia will come as a hatchback or estate
ON THE DRAWING BOARD The new electric estate
Volkswagen offers a glimpse of its first electric estate car VOLKSWAGEN looks set to launch into the electric estate car segment, with a new concept heading into production. This is the ID. Space Vizzion – the latest in a series of all-electric concepts under the ‘ID.’ umbrella. So far, only sketches of the car have been shown, though a full public debut has been confirmed for the LA Auto Show, which opens this Friday. Clear to see in these drawings is a very simplistic design, but with the details fitting in firmly with Volkswagen’s current corporate aesthetic. These include the thin LED light bar across the front, as seen on the latest Golf, and multi-hole grille. Further details about the Space Vizzion
are somewhat limited at the moment, but it’s claimed it would have a range of 366 miles between charges when the roadgoing variant arrives in 2021.
AppleSkin Inside the car, a material called AppleSkin is used – which is said to be a sustainable alternative to leather that’s made from residual matter left over from apple juice production. Volkswagen design head Klaus Bischoff said: “So far, with our ID. family, we have shown what is possible with electric vehicles in each known car category. “With the ID. Space Vizzion we create a new, fully electric segment.”
Audi adds a new R8 to supercar line-up
AUDI has brought back the rear-wheeldrive R8, now making it a permanent fixture in its sports car line-up. The previous generation’s rear-driven R8, dubbed RWS, was a limited run model, but this new version, badged RWD, will be available to all buyers. Sporting a mid-mounted 5.2-litre V10 engine, the R8 RWD makes 532bhp and 540Nm of torque, feeding power to the rear wheels through a seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission. Available in both coupé and convertible Spyder body shapes, it gets a few styling tweaks to make it stand out from AWD versions, such as a wider, flatter front grille, bigger intakes and air outlets and a higher rear diffuser. The 0-60mph sprint takes 3.5 seconds in the coupé and 3.6 in the convertible, with top speeds of 198 and 197mph respectively. The coupé is fractionally eco-friendlier, though both register fuel economy just below 22mpg and CO2 emissions weighing under 300g/km. Audi Sport Managing Director Oliver Hoffmann said: “We launched a limited series of the Audi R8 V10 RWS at the beginning of 2018. Its rear-wheel-drive is derived from the R8-LMS racing car, and the special dynamics sparked our customers’ enthusiasm right away. Now it will become part of the R8 family.” Alongside this, Audi also launched its entry-level racing car, the R8 LMS GT4.
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Life&Times
Recruitment
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday November 20 | 2019
WITH THE
FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
Cartref Homes UK Limited
Full Time Support Worker Vacancies To be part of our team meeting the needs of adults with learning disabilities living within our supported living service in Maidstone. Ideally applicants will have experience of working with adults with Learning Disabilities and/or mental health issues. However, training will be provided for suitable candidates. Due to location applicants must be able to drive. We seek staff with positive attitudes, flexibility and good written and verbal communication.
We offer guaranteed contracted hours and competitive pay. To request an application form please contact our head office on 01795 477966 or email your CV to care@cartrefhomes.co.uk These posts are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application
CODEWORD 3
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A B C D E F GH I J K L MNO P QR S T U VWX Y Z 24 17 12
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Codeword:
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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
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Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.
5 3 1 9 1
3 6
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4 9 7 8
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
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DIFFICULTY RATING:★★★✩
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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS
SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU
DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★★
CLASSIFIEDS
Life&Times
Puzzles
In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply. Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.
Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue
C K O M S M A O N D J O S C H G A O
J A T R E A N H E R T I A S H I N G E W H E Y E A R S S R K E D S U R S A B O T B O U T A B R S T R O B Y E T S
P G RM I T O V F L E X I T A V E A P A S S R C I Q U E Z L E L AW D R
Sudoku:
2 9 5 7 6 1 3 4 8
3 4 8 2 5 9 6 7 1
7 1 6 8 4 3 9 2 5
8 3 9 5 1 2 4 6 7
1 6 7 4 9 8 5 3 2
4 5 2 6 3 7 1 8 9
5 2 3 1 7 6 8 9 4
9 8 4 3 2 5 7 1 6
6 7 1 9 8 4 2 5 3
9 4 8 6 3 7 5 2 1
2 5 7 9 1 3 6 8 4
6 3 9 7 5 1 8 4 2
5 7 4 3 9 2 1 6 8
1 2 6 8 4 5 3 9 7
Jigsaw Sudoku:
3 6 1 2 7 8 4 5 9
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
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Clifton 23 Tonbridge Juddians 22 RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS were edged out of top spot in National Two South after an exciting contest against an improving Clifton side in Bristol. It was TJs who got on the scoreboard first after five minutes with a Will Robinson penalty. But concerted Clifton pressure saw Bradley Barnes equalise with a kick of his own. Winger Hugo Watson went close to a try but then came a dropped pass, the first of a number of errors by TJs brought about by the aggressive Clifton defence. The cover was good as Clifton countered but quick recycling sent the ball out left for full-back Chris Levesley to score, fly-half Barnes converting. This score signalled a good spell for Clifton and from a lineout the home pack mauled the ball over TJs’ line for prop Mark Roberts to touch
down. As the first half came to an end TJs’ lock Jack Nay won a lineout on Clifton’s 10-metre line and, exploiting a wide gap in the defence, galloped all the way in for a try in the corner which was unconverted. Resuming 17-8 down after the break, another dropped pass by TJs gifted the ball to Clifton and a penalty for a high tackle allowed Barnes to stretch the lead with a penalty. But TJs now applied concerted pressure on the home line and the ball was spun out right then left, winger Watson coming through on the burst to touch down with Robinson converting. TJs’ attack resumed, penalties put them within touching distance of the line again and under great defensive pressure the home side’s hooker, Luke Stratford, was yellow-carded. Dave Irvine, performing well at the line-out, won the ball and a well-drilled maul took the ball over the line for hooker Ryan Jackson to dot down.
PHOTO: Adam Hookway
Errors and yellows see TJs edged out by a point
LEADING THE FIELD Jack Nay sprints for the line Robinson added the extras and the visitors had suddenly taken a two-point lead, though with half an hour remaining there was a long way to go to hold on to it. Then TJs’ replacement lock Josh Groocock was yellow-carded for a high tackle and Barnes kicked the penalty to take Clifton back into the lead at 23-22. Then winger Murray Galbraith-Lowe was also
yellow-carded for an early tackle on the ballcatcher - though the kick at goal hit the post and bounced back into play. But a series of penalties in the closing stages effectively dashed TJs’ chances of stealing a win as the game became increasingly ragged. The result sees TJs drop to second place. Now they take on Esher at The Slade on Saturday (November 23, kick-off 2.30pm).
Colangelo shines in attack and defence Tring 10 Tunbridge Wells 22
MIND THE GAP Nick Doherty tries to break through
By Graham Withers RUGBY: A COMBINATION of attacking flair with ball in hand and a stout defensive effort saw Tunbridge Wells come away from Herfordshire with a well-deserved victory in the London and South East Premier Division. But the home team soon produced a strong rolling maul that saw winger Sam Barns cross for a try after five minutes which was converted by Tom Newton.
PHOTO: Bruce Ellliott
Impressive Frank Reynolds got the visitors on the scoreboard when he slotted a penalty, and then a Tring second rower was sent to the sin-bin after an illegal clear-out, When a home kick failed to find touch, George Montgomery released the in-form winger Max Hobbs into space to score a try close to the posts on 26 minutes, Reynolds slotting the conversion. From a line-out in the corner, the Wells pack went close to the line and the ball was moved wide to Harvey Colangelo to dive in at the corner two minutes before the interval.
It was the home-grown talent’s first try at this level following his impressive debut the previous weekend. The tough conversion was missed but the visitors went into half-time leading 15-7. The second half saw a herculean defensive effort by the visitors to hold on to their advantage against a determined home team. A Reynolds kick was charged down under pressure and Tring earned a penalty for a high tackle directly in front of the posts, Newton slotting it from 30 metres. Wells managed to steal a lineout ball deep in Tring territory but it was knocked on and from the ensuing scrum the home full-back made a scintillating 40-metre break. Just as a try was looking inevitable Colangelo covered the ground to intercept the pass in what was to prove a crucial piece of defensive work. In the last 10 minutes quick hands by Wells put in Ollie Allman, who was lurking on the wing and dived in for the score. An excellent Reynolds conversion from out wide gave Wells more breathing space on 76 minutes and they were able to close out the game with good kicking from Allman. Fifth-placed Wells now take on Bedford Athletic on Saturday (November 23, kick-off 2.30pm).
Young Leader all-rounders are lords for a day CRICKET: EIGHT players from Tonbridge & Malling were invited to Lord’s to attend a presentation of Young Leaders in Cricket Awards. Nick Pryde, Head of National Programmes for the England and Wales Cricket Board, said the Young Leaders in Cricket course is proving to be a valuable tool in keeping young people in the sport, in terms of playing, coaching and officiating.
Opportunity Middlesex player Max Hardy and umpire Casper Viljoen spoke about how sport has enriched their lives and helped them in their careers. A cricket bat signed by the Kent squad was donated to an auction for CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young), the chosen charity of the Mayor of Tonbridge & Malling, Jill Anderson. The Young Leaders in Cricket programme for 14 to 16 year olds offers training in coaching, umpiring, scoring,
groundsmanship; and First Aid. The students also volunteer to do 20 hours of coaching in a school, club or community in order to help develop cricketing opportunities in the local area. Cllr Anderson said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my day at Lord’s Cricket Ground. It was a pleasure to meet all the young cricketers who have received an award this year, congratulations to them all! “I’m sure they will go on to inspire other young people to take up cricket, not only in the sport itself but in coaching and the organisational side of things – there are many opportunities available.” For more information about the course email leisure.services@tmbc.gov.uk or call 01732 876166. TAKE THE LEAD The eight Young Leaders with Casper Viljoen, Max Hardy and Mayor Jill Anderson
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Wednesday November 20 | 2019
Angels hang on for vital win thanks to Da Costa Tonbridge Angels 2 St Albans City 1
FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS grabbed three vital points after deservedly winning this basement clash in National Two South, lifting them off the bottom of the table at the expense of St Albans. Former Saints player Khale Da Costa was causing all sorts of problems for the visitors on the left flank early on and Tom Derry should have scored from his cross in the fifth minute. In the 29th minute a free kick was awarded to Tonbridge just outside the area and new loanee signing Ben Greenhalgh fired it into the top right-hand corner of the net.
PHOTO: David Couldridge
By Jim Rowe
From the restart Oliver Sprague nearly equalised but Angels keeper Jonny Henly was equal to the task, the half ending with the visitors starting to assert themselves. After the break Tonbridge were still edging the contest but they couldn’t quite put the game to bed. Finally, Da Costa was on hand to double the Angels’ advantage in the 77th minute following good work from substitute Jason Williams. With the game seemingly safe, Tonbridge were cruising but Zane Benton gave the visitors hope on 89 minutes to set up an exciting end. Tonbridge could have gone further ahead, however, with Joe Turner missing a glorious chance in stoppage time.
Sport
Miles at the double to revive Rustics Sutton Athletic 2 Rusthall 3 FOOTBALL: FIVE goals in the second half saw Rusthall hanging on for victory at the London Hire Stadium after a fightback by Sutton. The first half was largely uneventful with the home side dictating the pace of the match and Rusthall seemingly content to contain rather than attack.
BEN GREENHALGH, 27, who has signed for Tonbridge Angels on an initial one-month’s loan from National South rivals Dartford, won the TV reality show Football’s Next Star on Sky One in 2010. Having played for youth teams at Welling United, he was picked out of 20,000 entries and won a contract with Inter Milan, where he played for 18 months, before returning to Welling. He was brought to Longmead thanks the the supporters’ 12th Man funding initiative and manager Seve McKimm said: “The 12th man scheme has been absolutely brilliant. “It’s allowed us to get a player of Ben’s quality in so once again it proves worthwhile. He’s played a lot of games at this level and is someone who can make a difference.”
Harriers win Bedgebury men’s team race in style By Andrew Deighton ATHLETICS: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Harriers took first place in the men’s team race at the Bedgebury Forest Half Marathon including three category wins. On a cold but dry morning, morethan 350 runners took on the 13.1-mile course through the woodland trails and soaked fields. Dave Hadaway came sixth overall, and first in the M50 category, with a time of 1hr 35min. Chris Walmsley was first M45 in 1:42 and with Matt Newman’s 1:59 they secured the team prize. Louise Hazelton also ran a good race in a time of
1:57 while and Mark Taylor (2:10) claimed first M65. Maria Gandara was the sole Harrier among the 200 runners in the 10k race, recording a time of 57min for third F50. The club also took part in the Brighton 10k race, which loops around the seafront offering a chance for fast times. Patrick Bareham was first Harrier home in 42nd place in the high-calibre field with a personal best (PB) of 34.39. Mike King also recorded a PB with his time of 35.57, and was closely followed by Tom Woolley (36.06), Mike Cardall (38.25 PB), Tomas Vnucak (40.30) and Polly Haywood (46.19 PB).
PHOTO: Dean Jacquin
Relieved The Rustics’ usual flowing game lacked accuracy and was laboured, a long-range effort by Tommy Lawrence being the only goal attempt of note. Billy Johnson had to react well in the visitors’ goal when Arlie Desange shot from close range and the teams went into half-time goalless. The first 20 minutes of the second half were much better from the away team. On 48 minutes
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MILES BETTER James Miles celebrates one of his two goals
By Dean Jacquin
COST EFFECTIVE Khale Da Costa scores Angels’ second goal
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Reuel Powell-Downey was released and he fed James Miles who beat a defender to finish neatly. Ten minutes later Miles arrived late in the box and was found by Steve Camacho, and he slotted home his second. The game seemed to have been put to bed on 70 minutes when Luke Adams volleyed home from close range after a Powell-Downey shot was only parried by the keeper. But with five minutes remaining Sutton pulled a goal back when a corner was met at the near post and dispatched well. WIth the clock ticking down, the home side scored again from a free kick just outside the box which was excellently curled over the wall, giving Johnson no chance. Rusthall were relieved to hear the final whistle shortly afterwards. The Rustics are second in the Southern Counties East League Division One and now have a weekend off before playing Rochester United at Jockey Farm on Saturday November 30 (kick-off 3pm).
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