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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

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MOTOR VILLAGE: A controversial car dealership’s plans to expand look set to be given the green light by the Council. Full story page 2

County Hall denies U-turn as it offers food vouchers THOUSANDS of schoolchildren across the county are to be handed £15 food vouchers during this week’s half term break. The move was announced yesterday [Tuesday] by the Conservative controlled Kent County Council that later issued another statement denying it had performed a U-turn on its position over the ongoing controversy surrounding help for eligible youngsters. Despite a campaign spearheaded by Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford, the government decided last week not to extend free school meals throughout this week’s half term holiday. During an opposition vote in the House of Commons on Wednesday [October 21], a Labour Party motion to extend the meal scheme was defeated after 321 Conservative MPs refused to back it. Nearly all Conservative members, including Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark, Tonbridge MP Tom Tugendhat and Wealden MP Nus Ghani, voted against the bill.

But a number of local authorities, including Medway, said despite the government decision they would provide meals to all eligible children during half term. Around 12,000 children in Kent, including many in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, are eligible for free school meals. County Hall leader and Sevenoaks

‘It’s not a policy change we’ve simply streamlined the process’ KCC spokesperson councillor, Roger Gough, said last week that KCC would be supporting those in need through their Kent Together Helpline and webpage, which was set up for vulnerable families during the Covid crisis. But the KCC leader stopped short of providing free school meals or vouchers during the holiday.

Now following a public backlash on last week’s parliamentary vote, Kent County Council has said it will be offering supermarket vouchers for families whose children are eligible for means tested free school meals. Roger Gough said yesterday [Tuesday]: “Kent County Council and our partners in district and borough councils have already helped thousands of Kent residents, including families with schoolaged children, since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. “At the weekend, with the half-term holiday approaching, I reminded residents about the help the Kent Together helpline and webpage offer and urged anyone who was struggling to contact us. “We have now taken that offer of help a step further, setting up a dedicated helpline families can call to apply for vouchers for Free School Meals to be used in a

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Fears car dealership will mean gridlock and ‘end of village life’ By Richard Williams

PICKERING PICKED UP BY TOP HOTEL: Cancer charity forced to move premises due to Covid has been given a lifeline by The Spa P13 TROUBLE IN TUDELEY: Developers officially showcase their plans for garden village but residents are not happy. Find out why on p7 THINKING PINK: Tonbridge School students and staff paint the town pink and raise thousands for local cancer charity P20

A CAR supermarket covering more than four acres and planned for the edge of a Tunbridge Wells village is expected to be given the green light today [Wednesday]. Pembury villagers claim the development on their doorstep is ‘wholly inappropriate’ and will lead to traffic gridlock on the already congested main road into town. The dealership behind the initiative, Hendy, says it will mean 50 new jobs and secure the future of another 130 current employees. The group operates a number of sites in Tunbridge Wells, including a Ford and Suzuki showroom on Mount Ephraim, and a Renault centre on Langton Road. It wants to create a ‘motor village’ in Pembury next to the Tesco Superstore. The plans would see its existing car showrooms move to a three-hectare site to the south east of the supermarket, with workshops, servicing areas, an accident repair centre and parts facilities.

Improvements

LIVE THE HIGH LIFE: We discover the benefits of investing in one of the town’s newest luxury apartment blocks in Property News P24 CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richardwilliams@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES RSinger@markerstudy.com | 01892 739763 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

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It is being presented to the Planning Committee at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council this morning, with planning officers recommending the application be approved. But the motor village has received more than 575 objections from Pembury residents, concerned about the traffic implications. Pembury Parish Council, which has sent in a formal objection to the proposal, say the dealership will add to the existing traffic congestion along Pembury Road causing ‘gridlock’. The village, which has been earmarked for further housing, is also located between a number of other developments in the borough, including the expansion of Paddock Wood and the proposed business park in North Farm. They have told the planning committee: “Traffic generated from the likely future expansion of both Pembury and Paddock Wood, will serve to exacerbate this problem. Any major new developments (such as the Motor Village) along the line of the Pembury Road should not be granted whilst there is an infrastructure deficit.” They continue: “We urge the Planning Committee to refuse this application, which we feel is wholly inappropriate for the site, and for Pembury.” They also raise concerns about added vehicle

DEALERSHIP The motor village is before the planning committee today [Wednesday] emissions and parking in the area. And residents say the construction of the multicar dealership would ‘be the end of Pembury as a village’. Former borough councillor, Sue Nuttall, who has led a campaign against the proposals and started a petition, told the Times: “The impact on the village is going to be enormous. It will be the end of Pembury as a village and will see it merge into a suburb of Tunbridge Wells.” She continued: “The junction where it is going to be built is very dangerous as it is. This will only add to the traffic.” She added that it would also cause issues for

‘It will create 50 new jobs and secure the future of 130 others’ Dealer Paul Hendy nearby Tunbridge Wells Hospital. “Ambulance really struggle to get in there now as it is. This is completely the wrong place for it,” she said. “There is a new business park being built in Kingstanding that has much better access to the A21 – why can’t it be built there?” However, she said she was ‘resigned’ to the fact the Motor Village was likely to be given approval. “I know it will get approved and I don’t think there is anything we can do about it,” she admitted. If councillors reject the plan today, it is likely Hendy Group would win any appeal, incurring legal costs for the Council.

WHY PEMBURY IS AN IDEAL LOCATION... Paul Hendy, who runs the car dealership group says the motor village will generate 50 new jobs as well as secure its 130 current employees in the town. He said: “This is an important development for Tunbridge Wells which offers longstanding benefits to the borough through a combination of the support for local jobs and the release of a key town centre site for regeneration. “The proposals for the Pembury site include a training academy and we are looking to form partnerships with local colleges to provide apprenticeship schemes.” He added that Hendy’s existing sites and facilities are fragmented across smaller, dated operations around West Kent and rationalisation and investment in the business is necessary for its future success and growth. “Our Mount Ephraim site, which has been identified by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council as a location for future residential redevelopment, presents us with a number of challenges due to the age and usability of the buildings,” he said. “It is no longer fit for purpose, nor does it meet the high standards expected by our customers. “Tunbridge Wells represents the logical and preferred focal point for future growth and expansion of our business within West Kent.”

KCC U-Turn

Parents of Crowborough baby ‘shaken to death’ go on trial By Robert Forrester A JURY has been asked to decide if the parents of an eight-week-old baby, who suffered head and neck injuries at her Crowborough home, had killed her. Holly Roe, who had been born two months prematurely, was pronounced dead at Tunbridge Wells Hospital on September 10, 2018. Her parents Tiffany Tate, 22, and Michael Roe, 33, last week went on trial for the baby’s murder and causing or allowing her death. They both deny the charges. Lewes Crown Court was told Mr Roe rang 999 at 01:30 on the morning of September 4 as the baby was cold and unresponsive. Paramedics arrived at their Alderbrook Road home, but Holly never regained consciousness and died a week later at the Pembury Road hospital. A post-mortem examination showed Holly died from head

injuries. She also had damage to her brain, spinal cord and neck consistent with being shaken, as well as 12 rib fractures. In police interviews read to the court, Ms Tate said a can of drink had fallen on her daughter’s head while out shopping a few days before she died. She also said she had seen Mr Roe trying to feed her through her nose a couple of weeks before her death and Holly had sounded in pain. Opening the prosecution’s case, Sally Howes QC told the jury that some of Holly’s injuries were caused several days before she died and some in the hours before, suggesting multiple episodes of head injury at different times. She told jurors: “It’s the position of the prosecution that the strength of the evidence suggests it’s Michael Roe who is responsible. “There is also evidence for you to consider Tiffany Tate had the opportunity for that unlawful act.

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“It is for you to decide who is guilty of murder. “Michael Roe is the last person to see her alive. “The injuries were of such severity she would have been unconscious at the time of injury.” The jury was also told how Miss Tate felt she was being controlled by Mr Roe and feared he would have custody of their baby if they broke up. Tiffany Tate’s support worker, Sarah Beal told the court: “Michael Roe said if she left, she wouldn’t be allowed to go to the funeral. “She took it seriously. She was upset.” The trial, which is expected to last four weeks, continues.

local supermarket during the school holidays. This dedicated helpline will streamline and speed up the process so we can get urgent help to those that need it. “This support for families in need has always been in place. I hope, though, that this helpline will enable people who need urgent help to get it, and to get it quickly. “Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we support the most vulnerable within our community. I hope that this service will quickly provide families with the help they need and ensure that no child in Kent is left to go hungry.” Anyone eligible for free school meals who needs extra financial support can now visit www.kent.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals or call the dedicated helpline on 03000 41 24 24. You have until next Monday November 2 to apply.

For more on the free school meals row see page 4

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

NEWS IN BRIEF

Police on the hunt for sex attacker DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted in a Tunbridge Wells street. Officers say that the man struck in North Street, which is close to the Royal Oak public house, just before 6pm on Friday October 19. A woman walking along the street says a man pulled her towards him and sexually assaulted her. The man is described as being white, aged in his mid-50s, around 5ft 10ins tall and with short cropped grey hair. He was wearing silver framed glasses and a zipped, thigh-length dark coat. Investigating officer, Police Constable Martin Bryant of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team said: “The victim has provided a detailed description of the suspect and we are also urging anyone who may have seen the suspect or knows who he is, to call the appeal line.”

BBC stalwart retires A BBC South East Presenter is retiring after 25 years at the corporation. Rob Smith, presenter of South East Today has announced that he will retire on November 5. Mr Smith started his career at the BBC at Radio Kent in 1995 and joined South East Today in 2001. He spoke of his love for the station: “So much has changed. 25 years of making friendships and building my life. “I met my wife Gemma at Radio Kent, and our home and our family is here in Kent.” His co-presenter Natalie Graham will take over as lead presenter.

New acts at Black Deer ORGANISERS of the Black Deer, the Americana and Country Music festival in Eridge Park, say they will be back in 2021 after this year’s event was cancelled, and is introducing more acts to the line-up. Acts already signed up for Black Deer 2020 who are now performing in June 2021, include former Led Zeppelin rocker Robert Plant. Black Deer has also announced some new additions for 2021, including Lucinda Williams, Drive-By Truckers and Colter Wall. The three-day event takes place on June 18-21 next year. Full weekend tickets and day tickets are on sale via: https://blackdeerfestival.com/

Local News

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Health and safety bring curtain down on town’s street theatre A PLANNED street theatre for this week has been cancelled after Council officials pulled the plug due to social distancing fears. The event, organised by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, the local Business Improvement District funded by local firms, was scheduled to entertain families during half term in the town centre from Monday [October 26].

Nuisance RTW Together had booked high-energy but High Street Playground, a dedicated street theatre company to present between three to four performances a day in Calverley Road, Five Ways and Royal Victoria Place. But on Friday, days before the theatre troupe were set to arrive, the Council’s Environment Protection Team pulled the plug, over fears for social distancing. Ross Feeney, RTW Together Chief Executive said he was ‘incredibly disappointed’ by the decision.

He told the Times: “I understand the concerns about Covid but they also said the concept of a street theatre was a ‘public nuisance’. “This was we explained that we would have event marshalls, but they said they were worried about crowds gathering. “We arranged the theatre to be moving around and I think you have to trust people’s judgement, but they disagreed.” He continued: “What annoys me the most is

And County Hall cancels the circus ten minutes before big top opens KENT County Council has put the future of a circus at risk after forcing it to close, just minutes before it was set to open. Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council had already granted permission for Circus Zyair to have 10 days of shows at the Hop Farm in Paddock Wood beginning on Friday [October 23]. But as the audience began to arrive, staff at the circus had to inform them the show was cancelled. Announcing the closure on their Facebook page, the circus group said: “Circuses got permission to

open in July, although we chose not to re-open our full tour as we did not feel that this was financially viable. “We decided to work with the Hop Farm to put on a slightly smaller scale, reduced capacity and Covid-secure one hour performance over the October half term. “Along with the Hop Farm we worked closely with Tonbridge & Malling council with regard to our Covid-secure policies and everything was approved by the safety advisory group at the

CIRCUS WON’T BE COMING TO TOWN Circus Zyair’s big top

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that I asked the Environment Protection Team what we could do and put in place to alleviate their concerns but they were not cooperative.” A spokesperson for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council said: “The Council’s Environmental Health Team advised Royal Tunbridge Wells Together that they were concerned that the plan for roving performers would encourage people to gather in groups, and that the risk assessment did not address this in sufficient detail. “The Council did not stop the event because they do not have the powers to do so but they advised Royal Tunbridge Wells Together that in their view the street entertainment shouldn’t go ahead.” Tracey Beattie, Mid Kent Environmental Health Manager added: “We are very grateful to Royal Tunbridge Wells Together for following the advice we gave. “We understand it may be disappointing but the advice was given in the context of the increasing number of cases nationally and the desire to remain a tier 1 area.” council. “After the approval was given we pressed ahead with advertising, re employing staff & performers and setting up all of the equipment. This is a massive financial undertaking. “We feel that the council have completely abused their power of authority and have potentially bankrupted our company which will in turn cause a lot of people to lose their jobs. “We are incredibly sorry about the cancellations and we are broken hearted that this has been forced on both us and you.”

Transmission KCC say they decided to force the closure of the big top due to rising Covid cases. A spokesman said: “We are sorry that this event can no longer go ahead as planned and understand that those due to attend will be disappointed. “Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council were made aware of the event and the organisers’ protection measures several weeks ago. While the council did not have concerns at that stage, since then cases of Covid-19 have significantly increased in all areas of Kent. “This increase can, in part, be put down to community transmission and, having considered the risks associated with this event, it has been decided that it could pose a risk to the health of those due to attend.”

further to be made under the that Self- have Just for a moment, it appeared were are some In place of the usual Q&A,that thethings following ofgrants the support packages Employment Income Support Scheme; longer returning to some semblance of normality. been made available to help businesses deal with the Coronavirus: Restaurants and pubs opened, schools went back

repayment periods under the Bounce Back Loan

Cash Grants: A grant of £10k will automatically be as well as options for payment holidays and interest provided to all businesses currently entitled to Small free periods and further time to pay the VAT and Business Rates Relief. A grant of £25k can be claimed income tax previously deferred. Further details Darren Austin at Synergee for businesses in the retail, hospitality or leisure industry The Chancellor cancelled the expected budget and, can be found here: ifhttps://www.synergee.org.uk/press-releases/ their rateable value is between £15k and £51K. VAT Deferral: The deferral will apply from 20 March Darren Austin is a director of Synergee instead, announced his Winter Economy Plan Limited, a firm of Chartered Accountants & todesigned Business Rates Holiday: There is a 12-month business 30 June 2020. There isthe a lack of clarity on thetoGov. winter-economy-plan to continue support provided business advisers based in Tunbridge Wells. uk website and we are interpreting this as payments rates holiday (April 20 tax to March 21) will for all retail, With the inevitable rises that come, I have businesses and employees. Most of the If you have any questions you'd like to ask hospitality and leisure businesses England. due by 30 June rather than quarters or ended 30 June. an idea that could help raise taxin without raising tax announcements were extensions tweaks of the Darren he can be contacted on This means that May quarter Sadly, VAT Returns, where rates.to Why reduce the VAT threshold existing support packages. no additional Time Paynot Arrangements: In registration addition to the 01892 772960 | www.synergee.org.uk from £85k pa to nil? If every business is required to measures werebyannounced that fell payment is due 7 July, will for stillthose be payable as deferral schemes noted above, if you have outstanding register it will stop customers avoiding VAT by between the cracks of the existing schemes. On the normal. Any payments deferred will become payable tax liabilities (Corporation Tax, VAT or Income Tax) selecting an unregistered will stop side, of the budget means bybright the end of the the cancellation tax year (31/3/21 Company or 5/4/21 due to coronavirus, you maybusiness, be able toit agree a time artificial separation of businesses to avoid that the expected tax hikes have been kicked down Unincorporated) to pay arrangement. Arrangements will be agreed on Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: HMRC will and my youngest went off to university. However, we reimburse 80% of wages paid to workers who have be may have been a bit optimistic and restrictions are laid off due to the coronavirus crisis. This is capped at now tightening rather than loosening. £2.5k per employee per month.

the road.

Income Tax Deferral: The self-assessment second The main elements of the announcement are a payment on account, due by 31 July 2020, will be new Job Support Scheme to replace the Job deferred to 31 January 2021. No penalties or interest Retention Scheme scheduled to end 31 October; two will be charged.

registration and it will help smaller businesses near

a case by case basis. To discuss your options, contact the threshold as there will be a level playing field. HMRC on 0800 0159 559.

Without the ceiling of £85k, small businesses will be

Further info and can be found https:// free to grow andupdates contribute more to here: the economy. www.synergee.org.uk/press-releases/coronavirus-update

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

MPs respond to criticism as to why they voted against free school meals By Richard Williams LOCAL MPs have responded to criticism levelled at them for voting against a parliamentary bill requesting the government provide free school meals to children during the school holidays. Downing Street has said the decision not to introduce free meals was a ‘tough one’ but it had raised Universal Credit by £20 a week, adjusted housing benefit to help people with their rent and given £63million to councils to help with hardship funding. The Labour Party had raised an Opposition Day Motion – a non legislative bill – in the subject after a campaign by Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford.

PROTEST Empty dinner plates inscribed with messages left at the Paddock Wood Tory office

Desperate But only five Conservatives MPs chose to vote with the opposition benches last week, including Eastbourne’s Caroline Ansell, who resigned from her government job over the issue. But the only Kent MP to back the bill was Labour’s Rosie Duffield from Canterbury. Local Tories have been heavily criticised for the decision, with campaigners even leaving empty dinner plates outside the West Kent Conservative Association office in Paddock Wood. Tunbridge Wells Lib Dem leader, Ben Chapelard said: “Conservative MPs voted down a motion that would support over one million children who receive free school meals. “The government has found billions to fund other projects but will not find the relatively small amount to fund free school meals.

FLOOD WATERS Mount Pleasant Road on Saturday

“Families who are already having a tough time because of the Government’s mishandling of Coronavirus have to deal with finding extra money to feed their families at a time of unique hardship. As a parent of primary school children, I cannot imagine what it feels like to be in such desperate need.” He then criticised Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark, saying: “Mr Clark has voted to let over 12,000 children in Kent go hungry. I would like to ask Greg Clark on what moral grounds he can justify his decision? The lack of compassion is

frightening.” But Mr Clark described the Opposition Day debate as ‘widely misrepresented’. He told the Times: “They are designed to provide a hook to discuss a topical issue and by parliamentary convention are opposed by the government of the day just as they always were by the Liberal Democrats and Labour when they were in government.” He continued: “Up until now there has been a strong consensus that boosting the income of parents was better than providing vouchers for

AROUND 400 meals to help feed hungry children this half term are being provided by restaurants in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge after the government decided not to provide free school meals over the holiday period. The restaurants approached both Nourish Community Foodbank in Tunbridge Wells and FEAST in Tonbridge over the weekend, after hearing about the government’s refusal to back Marcus Rashford’s campaign. Dawn Stanford, Operations Manager at the foodbank, said while the organisation was well stocked to deal with half term, the additional meals were ‘very welcome’. “It is amazing that people want to help out like this. It is a case of the haves helping the have nots, which is what is really lovely about

Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge,” she said. She continued: “Thanks to the restaurants stepping up there is going to be more than enough provision to ensure no child goes hungry this half term.”

Restaurants step in to feed hungry children at half term Community The restaurants and chefs, whose kitchens are each cooking around 50 meals a day each, include Sankey’s, Verdigris, The Small Holding, Mount Edgcumbe, Star & Eagle, The Hopbine and Ben Sulston’s Kitchen. They are also providing meals to the community foodbanks at Tonbridge Baptist Church and St Marks Church. Matthew Sankey, who runs a pub and restaurant

Flooding hits a town centre café for third time A CAFÉ has been flooded after torrential rain deluged parts of Tunbridge Wells town centre at the weekend. Heavy rain on Saturday night caused the storm drains in Mount Pleasant Road to become blocked resulting in several inches of water flooding the street. The flood at the bottom of the hill, affected both Hoopers department store and Kai’s Kitchen, which was flooded out for the third time. The café was also flooded in 2015 and 2017.

food, clothing and other needs. “That has always been my view, and all political parties have agreed, until Marcus Rashford recently made the strong argument for vouchers, and we should look at what is the best way to achieve a shared objective in plenty of time for the next major school holidays at Christmas. “I have always fought hard to get help to those who need it in my constituency – both through shaping national policy and through direct personal involvement with local people facing difficulties.” He added: “There are important questions as to what is the best way to help children during the holidays. They should be addressed in a serious way, without the corrosive implication that different people who may have different thoughts on how best to achieve something are not motivated by the same goodwill as each other.” Tonbridge MP Tom Tugendhat responded to the vote on his website saying: “the truth is that the Government has actually provided what this motion asked for already. “Free school meals were extended over the summer holidays this year because most children had not been in school since March. “So far this term, 99 per cent of children have returned to school as they had before March. “The situation is now different because children are back at school.” Wealden MP Nus Ghani also issued a statement, saying: “While it is true that some families do need extra support during summer holidays, not all children on free school meals needs this support. We must target those that need it most.”

WHEELS IN MOTION Dawn Standford of Nourish [second right] stocking up with members of Childrensalon earlier this month

in Tunbridge Wells organised the meals, said: “When the Government announced that they would not be providing free meals throughout half-term, we all knew we had to do something ourselves. “Together, we want to help feed children from lower income homes, and ease the financial burden on parents in this difficult period. Now is the time to come together, and rally around those who would otherwise go hungry.”

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Six tonnes of asbestos flytipped on Winnie the Pooh’s doorstep

Stockpiled Asbestos is a well-known carcinogen that can cause serious lung problems. It is a fire-retardant material that was banned in the UK in 1999. The quantity of the dumped asbestos was such that the council believes it would have to have been transported by a large vehicle or a skip. A spokesperson for the council said: “Did you see anything suspicious during the evening of Friday 9th October before 9pm? “Have you noticed a large amount of stockpiled asbestos suddenly disappear? The asbestos was from more than one building. Thank you for helping us fight the fly tippers.” Anyone with information should contact Wealden Distric Council.

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By Richard Williams

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SHOP FRONT How the new store might look

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BUDGET supermarket Lidl has begun work on its new Tunbridge Wells store and is set for a spring opening. The Times broke the news in February that the German retailer was planning to open in the town after it acquired half of the Homebase unit Trampoline park needs a new home in Broadwater Lane – opposite Sainsbury’s. after forced closure Homebase will continue to trade next door to By Andy Tong the new supermarket. Lidl, which already has a store in Tonbridge High Street and in Crowborough town centre, has now confirmed their plans for their new branch. GOOD SIGN How newly branded store might look

Lidl names town centre site as battle of budget stores starts By Richard Williams GERMAN supermarket Lidl, has found a location for its first store in Tunbridge Wells. The budget retailer has been scouting sites in the town for some time, but has been keeping tight-lipped as to where it wanted to locate its newest supermarket. The Times can now disclose that the low-cost grocery chain has acquired half of the site currently occupied by Homebase in Linden Park Road, Broadwater Lane, near to the Spa Valley Railway. Homebase, which will continue to trade on the site, has split its store in half, with the DIY retailer operating out of one side, while Lidl plans to operate out of the other. A spokesperson for Homebase told the Times this week: “We can confirm that

the unit on Broadwater Lane has been split and that this space has been acquired by Lidl. Our Tunbridge Wells store will continue to operate as per usual.” It is unclear whether the supermarket giant will have to apply for new planning

Homebase will operate as ‘per usual’ but has split store in half permission from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council before it can begin operating from the DIY store, but existing permission for the site does allow for a ‘retail food store and retail warehouse’. The news follows last year’s opening of Aldi in Tunbridge Wells – chief rival to

THE popular family attraction Jump In Trampoline Park has been ordered to quit its Tonbridge site with the possible loss of 60 jobs if a new location cannot be found. The attraction has to leave its Morley Road premises by May 31 after the landlords gave notice to quit at the end of the current lease. The site will now be taken over by Atom, a large and highly successful drinks company which occupies both neighbouring units - and put in a better offer. Jump In has conducted what it described as ‘an exhaustive search’ of other potential sites in and around Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells but has failed to find a local solution.

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Lidl – which opened in the former Toys R Us unit in the Great Lodge Retail Park in Longfield Road, last October. Both German retailers have been opening stores up and down the country as they jostle for customers. Aldi has invested around £1billion in new supermarket openings and is aiming ‘to open a new store in the UK every week over the next two years’, increasing its existing 840 stores by more than 100. Similarly, Lidl, which first entered the UK market in 1994 and now employs over 22,500 workers, is planning 230 openings over the next few years, which will see it have nearly 1,000 branches in Britain. Aldi is currently edging its rival with a

It has eight other trampoline parks across the country, and this is the first one that has had to close. Both the company and the Morley Road site are profitable. Gavin Lucas, founder and Chief Executive of Jump In, said: “We have been searching for alternative premises across the region south of London for some time, and are exploring some options for relocation. “Nevertheless, it is likely that Jump In will be leaving Tonbridge if a local site is not secured.” He added: “We feel we provide a hugely popular outlet for fun physical activity for children. In the context of a childhood obesity crisis and increasingly screen-dominated daily life, this would be a sad loss for the local area.”

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SUPERMARKET WARS: How the Times broke the news in February that Lidl was coming to town The low cost grocer has begun work on the new supermarket after planning permission was granted by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Lidl GB’s Regional Head of Property, Adam Forsdick, said: “There’s been much anticipation for this new Lidl store and it’s great that we are now in a position to start construction. “We are extremely grateful for all the support

that we have received so far and would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding whilst we enter this next phase of the development.” Lidl is working with construction firm STS Thermal Ltd to develop the store which will create around 40 new jobs when opened.

Ambitious The shop fitting works are expected to take five months, and the company hopes to open in spring 2021.

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The new store will have a 1358m² sales area and will also feature facilities including an in-store bakery, customer toilets and parking for both cars and bicycles. The plans come after rival budget chain Aldi opened its first supermarket in Tunbridge Wells at the former Toys R Us site at the Great Lodge Retail Park in October last year. Both chains have outlined ambitious expansion plans, with Aldi planning more than 100 new store openings and Lidl investing £1.45bn in additional supermarkets across Great Britain in 2019 and 2020.

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THE area famed for being the inspiration for A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh has been littered with six tonnes of asbestos. Harts Lane in Hartfield, East Sussex, on the edge of Ashdown Forest, had to be closed for four days while specialist cleaners made the area safe. As well as inconveniencing local road users, around £2,500 of taxpayers’ money had to be spent on the clean-up. Wealden District Council is trying to track down those responsible for dumping the potentially harmful material.

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Tonbridge housing plan could be in jeopardy after Planning Inspector cancels hearings By Richard Williams

BUILDING PLANS Tonbridge could be under pressure to accept more developments

THE housing plan for Tonbridge & Malling that outlines where the Council is to build new homes over the next decade is under threat after inspectors raised concerns about ‘legal compliance’. The Local Plan, which is a legal document that all councils have to submit to the government’s Planning Inspector, currently outlines where 6,828 new homes are to be built by 2031. Like many authorities, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council [TMBC] is under pressure to meet government housing quotas and is currently having to build 696 homes a year – a figure that may soon rise to 1,440 following a recent government consultation.

Hearings But the Times has learnt that the current Local Plan, which was submitted to the planning Inspector in March this year, is possibly going to be rejected after planning inspectors cancelled a scheduled hearing to review the document. In a letter sent to the Ian Bailey, planning policy manager at TMBC, the inspectors say that following previous hearings held this month, they now have ‘serious concerns’ over the ‘legal compliance’ of the plan. They tell Mr Bailey: “Over these three days we heard discussion on the Duty to Cooperate and other legal compliance issues. We need to reflect further on these issues.” They add: “At this stage, we do have some serious concerns in relation to legal compliance. Because of this, it would to be a good use of anyone’s time for the next hearing sessions to go ahead at this stage.” If the plan is rejected, it would prove a blow to

the council, who will have to draft a new plan. Not having a Local Plan in place will also mean the Council will struggle to block unacceptable developments in areas such as Green Belt or where speculative developers do not provide adequate affordable housing. Both Sevenoaks and Wealden district councils have had their local plans sent back by the Planning Inspectors for not building enough homes and failing to communicate with other authorities. Sevenoaks is appealing to the courts to get the decision overturned. Meanwhile, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s draft Local Plan – which includes the building of a controversial Garden Village in Tudeley – [see

page 7] is more than a year behind schedule. A spokesman for TMBC said: “We are disappointed that the hearings scheduled for November have been cancelled. We are now awaiting further details from the inspector regarding his concerns. Until then we are not able to comment further.” Green Party Councillor, Mark Hood, said he believed the inspectors’ concerns may be centred on the council’s use of Green Belt. He told the Times: “Obviously this news isn’t what the Council want to hear but it does reflect what many others have pointed out, that the Plan is not sustainable and that many non-Green Belt sites have been overlooked before deciding to build in South West Tonbridge.”

Parents back headteacher over ‘offensive’ race term PARENTS have backed a local headteacher after she was criticised for using the term ‘negro’ during a black history month assembly. Samantha Price, head of £40,000 a year independent Benenden School, which Princess Anne attended, used the term to show how language around black people had changed. Citing Wikipedia, she told the assembly that when Black History Month began in 1926 it was known as ‘Negro History Week’ in America. During the assembly she also said there was an ‘important debate to have’ over whether the commemoration was needed in the modern world since ‘black history should be fully immersed in UK culture by now’. Afterwards she received complaints from some senior girls who claimed the term was as offensive as the n-word. She later apologised, telling the national newspapers: “The original name contains an offensive word and by using this word in this context I was attempting to show how far language around black people has come since then. “However, in hindsight I recognise it was not necessary to use the specific word and I accept that by using this word at all I have caused offence to some pupils. Clearly, this was never my intention and I unreservedly apologise for that error.” But parents have said she had nothing to apologise for as she was trying to educate pupils about the history of racial inequality.

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Developer unveils its ‘masterplan’ for controversial Garden Village By Robert Forrester THE landowner of the site where a new Garden Village in Tunbridge Wells is being proposed has unveiled its plans. A series of collaborative, community planning workshops known as a ‘charrette’ had been scheduled for March this year but had to be cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead, Hadlow Estate, which owns the land between Tonbridge and Paddock Wood where 2,800 homes have been proposed as part of

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council draft Local Plan, held a four-day exhibition at One Warwick Park Hotel last week. The exhibition will now be followed by a two-week consultation period where people can send comments and feedback until Friday, November 6. Harry Teacher of the Hadlow Estate said: “We initially wanted to develop ideas alongside the community but we’ve been unable to do that so we are sharing our ideas for what a new community might look like if it is to be built on PROTEST Campaigners opposing the development last year

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local feedback as possible to help inform the next stage of the design process so we are inviting people to view the proposals on the Tudeley Village website and submit their ideas. We are particularly keen to understand what services and facilities people would value most in a new village.” The new village is expected to provide a land at Tudeley. variety of homes, including affordable housing, “We’ve welcomed 150 people to our ticketed as well as offer employment space, shops, exhibition this week and the feedback we’ve schools and community facilities, as well as received over the four days has been really useful with many constructive and creative ideas open space including dedicated cycleways and footpaths. being submitted. It has been designed by Murray Architects who are UK-based specialists in creating new Feedback communities. Among those that visited the exhibition was “One idea we’re adding to our masterplan as a Chris Callender, who represents Save Capel – result of the feedback is extending the proposed the campaign group set up to oppose the cycle path to connect with Paddock Wood. We’re development. also looking at the style and types of homes that He told the Times the unveiling has made them people want, as well as good quality, beautiful ‘even more resolute’ to fight the plans. and affordable housing for younger He said: “It is far worse than we thought. generations.” “The main problem is the transport and Mr Teacher added: “We want to gather as much infrastructure implications – traffic movement, people movement and impact on local infrastructure. “It will put huge pressure on surrounding road network and there is little to suggest it will be mitigated. “There are other sites with better access such as the A21 growth corridor. “Hadlow Estate also talk of community but are not sympathetic to the existing community.” The Tudeley Village masterplan can be viewed on www.tudeleyvillage. co.uk where there is also a DEVELOPMENT: The village of Tudeley is to have around 2,500 new homes an online feedback form.

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Five local retailers at risk of closure but rescue package could save Tonbridge store By Richard Williams THE owner of a number of high street fashion brands is attempting a rescue deal that could see one shop saved in Tonbridge, although a number of others in the area are destined to close for good. Closing down sales are being held at a number of local stores, including Peacocks and Bonmarche in Tonbridge High Street and Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, after the group that owns the stores fell into administration. The shops are run by Carlisle-based Edinburgh Woollen Mill [EWM] Group. It employs around 20,000 people across the UK, all of which could lose their jobs if a deal is not secured. Group owner Philip Day is racing to put together a rescue package that could see all 400

UK Peacocks stores saved. EWM Group has appealed to the High Court to get a stay on liquidation that will prevent all his brands being asset stripped and sold off. Meanwhile Mr Day hopes to secure enough funding to buy back his Peacocks stores from the administrators, as he believes the chain can still be profitable.

Concessions Those destined to close include The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Peacocks and Bonmarche, as well as Jaeger, which has concessions in both Fenwick and Hoopers department store in Tunbridge Wells. However, the Jaeger brand may also be saved after reports at the weekend that Sports Direct STORE HOPES Peacocks Tonbridge High Street

ONE MORE GAP EXPECTED IN RVP SHOPPING CENTRE

CLOSING The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Calverley Road tycoon Mike Ashley may be interested in acquiring the fashion house. EWM says the recent financial crisis was triggered by the combination of the pandemic driven retail downturn on the High Street and what they say is a false claim in national media reports that it owes $27million to suppliers. The rumour had led to a shutting down of credit sources, escalating the firm’s problems. Steve Simpson, EWM’s chief executive, said: “Like every retailer, we have found the past seven months extremely difficult. “This situation has grown worse in recent weeks as we have had to deal with a series of false rumours about our payments and trading which have impacted on our credit insurance. “Traditionally, EWM has always traded with strong cash reserves and a conservative balance sheet but these stories and the reduction in credit insurance – against the backdrop of the initial lockdown, current lockdowns and the second wave of Covid-19 reducing footfall have made normal trading impossible. “As directors, we have a duty to the business, our staff, our customers and our creditors to find the best solution in this brutal environment.”

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ANOTHER retailer is set to leave Royal Victoria Place [RVP] in Tunbridge Wells. Clothing store Gap, which runs GapKids and Baby Gap in the shopping centre, is holding a closing down sale and is expected to vacate its unit by the end of the year. The fashion chain is currently in talks to reduce its existing 200 other UK outlets as part of a ‘strategic review’ of its branch network, with many others expected to close by spring 2021. The American clothing giant, which also owns Banana Republic and Intermix, said the Covid crisis has cost the company £750million. It follows a poor 2020 in which the San Francisco-based chain closed 200 stores globally. The news comes after RVP’s flagship department store Fenwick says it is expecting to post a ‘sizeable loss’ at the end of the year after posting a £49million loss in its accountable period before the pandemic hit in March. The BHS unit in RVP has remained empty since the company collapsed in 2016.

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

BUSINESS

THE utilities company that supplies water to Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge is urging its customers to carry out a winter MOT on their homes and those of elderly family, friends and neighbours to avoid burst water pipes this winter. South East Water, which serves 2.2 million customers across parts of Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire, says pipes burst when exposed to extreme cold such as in attics and outside buildings. Garden taps also need protecting against the cold. The company is also highlighting its Priority Services Register and special tariffs to help vulnerable customers and those in financial difficulties.

ALEXANDRA Gordon, a partner at Maidstonebased Brachers law firm, has been appointed president of Kent Law Society. Having previously held the position of vice president at the society, Ms Gordon has worked as qualified as a lawyer since 2010, spending her career at legal firms across the county. Kent Law Society is more than 200 years old and its role is to promote the interests of the legal profession in the county.

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Salon celebrates a decade in business with the launch of a beauty school OWNER Jessica Owens celebrates 10 years in business

By Robert Forrester A SALON in Tunbridge Wells has launched a beauty school after celebrating ten years in business. Like many businesses, Vanity Fair Beauty in Camden Road was forced to close in March due the Covid pandemic. But owner, Jessica Owens, decided to use the time to set up a beauty school to help other beauticians receive the training and qualifications they needed to enter the industry. Vanity Fair School of Beauty now offers online based

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training courses with in-house courses covering a range of procedures such as Dermaplane and Microneedling, lash treatments and gel nails. The school has already seen a number of students become fully qualified beauticians. Jessica Owens, who has been in the beauty business for 17 years, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of how far we have come in the last ten years and what our future holds. “I love to help other students to grow and to help them build their own beauty business.”

Ms Gordon said: “Kent Law Society plays a key role in supporting and promoting the profession in Kent. I have played an active role in the society for seven years and to be appointed to this position is a great honour. “I am really looking forward to taking up the reins alongside my work at Brachers and helping drive the society’s activities forward. “In such challenging times, I am excited by the opportunity to support the legal community. “As president, I have made it my mission to promote mental health within the profession, which is so important when many of us are still working from home and not interacting with other lawyers in the ways we were used to.” PRESIDENT Alexandra Gordon has been appointed president of Kent Law Society

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Householders urged to conduct a water MOT

Steve Andrews, Head of Central Operations, said: “Usually at this time of year we ask our customers to make sure they are winter ready but in this strange and very challenging year it is even more important that a full MOT is carried out not only on their homes but by signing up for all the help that is available to prevent further misery and expense cold weather can bring. “Burst pipes are a very unpleasant and inconvenient problem and when they occur inside the home or in the boundary of a property they are usually the responsibility of the householder to repair. “To avoid a burst water pipe, there are some easy steps to take to protect exposed pipes and taps by lagging them with our free insulation kits and tap protectors available from our website or by buying industry approved lagging from DIY stores.” An additional winter ready MOT job is to know where the internal stop tap is located and for people to test it works. For the winter kit, additional advice and a video on how to protect water pipes go to southeastwater.co.uk/winter

Local News

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Mental health matters at Kent primary school

NEWS

Charity continuing to support cancer patients despite Covid

A TUNBRIDGE Wells primary school is the first in the county to be issued an award in recognition to its commitment to mental health. Bidborough CE Primary School has been awarded the Sandwell Well-Being Charter Mark in acknowledgement of the school’s commitment to improving mental health and well-being of pupils, staff and parents. Headteacher at Bidborough Primary School, Mrs Burton spoke of the school’s dedication to mental health.

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Acknowledgement She said: “We are delighted to be one of the first schools in Kent to receive this award and to shine the spotlight on mental health. “At Bidborough we have always recognised the importance of mental well-being and have had schemes in place to assist with this, receiving this award is an acknowledgement of our commitment and continued improvement in this area. “Never has mental health been as important as in the current climate when we are all facing additional challenges.” She continued: “We have worked hard to meet all the standards laid out in the Sandwell Well-being Charter Mark and I am hugely proud of the continued work that everyone here at the school puts into supporting each other, the children and families.” The Charter Mark promotes a whole school approach to mental health and recognises that everyone will at some point in their life be affected by mental health issues of some description.

Community

SUPPORT [L-R] Polly Taylor with Spa Hotel Manager Emelie Dumont, Chairman of centre David Bartholomew and volunteer Caroline Neill

By Lottie Bulmer A CANCER charity forced to lock up its Tunbridge Wells home because of Covid restrictions is continuing to find a way to support those in need of help. Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre moved out of their Monson Road residence in March to due to social distancing restrictions. It began offering remote support over the phone, but as Polly Taylor – Co-founder and fundraiser explained, it wasn’t an ideal situation. “We had to close down right at the beginning, and I was working from home with two mobile phones,” she said. “But I couldn’t cope with the sad messages.” During the warmer weather, Polly and her

team set up in Calverley Grounds, but was fearful as to where she could meet her clients when the colder weather moved in.

“Now, we are as full as we can be with counsellors and therapists and being at the end of the telephone.” Along with in-person drop-ins, Pickering has organised online activities through Zoom, including an art therapy club and mindfulness on Mondays throughout lockdown. David Bartholomew, chairman of the centre added: “Reducing meeting numbers has been working out fine. “It gives the ability for people to still meet and even if there’s only one person, it still helps them out.”

Atmosphere Now thanks to the generosity of The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells, they are continuing to support cancer suffers with reduced numbers. Polly added: “It has been difficult, but we haven’t given up – everyone else has put the patients on hold, but cancer doesn’t wait for anything and unfortunately we’ve never had so many youngsters. She continued: “I feel like the world has shut down to cancer and heart disease, but is open to Covid.

COVID AWARE: Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre’s meeting at The Spa Hotel

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

BAME grant for MTW charity A KENT charitable fund, which raises money for Tunbridge Wells Hospital, has been awarded a grant from the NHS to support black and ethnic minorities. Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS (MTW) Charitable fund has been awarded £50,000 from NHS Charities Together. Laura Kennedy, Fundraising Manager at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this funding by NHS Charities Together and pleased that it has already been put to good use by helping support our staff during the ongoing pandemic. “All projects benefiting from this funding aim to improve MTW as a compassionate and inclusive organisation both for staff and patients.”

Support The grant will be used to fund projects with a key focus on supporting black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) colleagues working at MTW who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Current projects from the funding include MTW’s Cultutral and Ethnic Minorities Network (CEMN) ‘The Power of Us’ Virtual conference and, which took place earlier in October during Black History Month and focused on how diversity can improve the care the hospital gives its patients. The event was open to healthcare staff in Kent to help build further relationships and develop inclusion across the region. Later this month, MTW will host ‘The Power of Me’, a virtual conference to focus on career development for BAME staff at MTW. The event aims to encourage an inclusive culture where people with a diverse range of identities and backgrounds, skills and attributes.

Community News

NEWS

A splashing good time Police truncheon displayed at pub for disabled swimmer A PIECE of parish history is to be displayed at a village pub. The George Inn, in Frant has been presented a Victorian police constable’s truncheon, belonging to a former resident of the village. The truncheon was in use as the Frant Parish Constable’s Staff until 1872 when the office was suspended by the order of the justices. It originally belonged to David Delves, the baker of Frant High Street and his descendants decided that the staff should be returned to the village as a piece of local history.

By Millie Sanderson A LOCAL girl with cerebral palsy has finally been able to return to the water thanks to the reopening of Tunbridge Wells’ swimming pool. Jessica Burton had been swimming every week for the last five years but her lessons were put on hold when Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre closed in March due to Covid restrictions. The sports centre was used as a Covid treatment centre during lockdown and its operating company, Fusion Lifestyle, had to be bailed out by Council funding in August. But after the centre reopened last month, the seven-year-old–who lives with epilepsy and cerebral palsy, has restarted her swim lesson at the St John’s Road pool.

Honoured His descendants have donated it to the Parish Council on the condition it remain on display to the public at an appropriate location, which was decided to be the pub. Greg Elliott, owner of The George Inn said: “We of course are very honoured that they chose us, and it will be displayed above the fireplace.” Police carried truncheons until the mid 1990s when they were phased out in favour of American-style batons.

Enthusiasm Jessica’s father, Craig Burton, said: “Swimming is a real joy for Jessica. “Thanks to the team at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre she feels there is nothing she can’t do and is full of enthusiasm. “She was really excited to get back in the water and is now working towards completing swimming stage three. “The team are really supportive and have helped Jessica not just learn to swim but learn to love swimming too.” Fusion Swim School instructor Julie Cutts added: “Teaching Jessica is a delight. Her determination and courage are inspirational. “Jessica always arrives with a smile on her face and ready for new challenges. “What Jessica has achieved in the last five years is incredible, she has gained so much

MAKING A SPLASH: Jessica Burton has returned to her swimming lessons in Tunbridge Wells. confidence and has become a lot stronger in the water. “Learning to swim is a really important skill and we welcome children and adults of all abilities to learn with us.” Jessica started adult and child swimming lessons with her grandmother and progressed through solo lessons through the learner pool and is now confident enough to take part in evening lessons in the big pool.

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

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National News

NEWS

Security guard was ‘naive’ about terror

Police searches at a seven-year high

A MANCHESTER Arena security guard who was working on the night of Salman Abedi’s suicide bombing has told a public inquiry he was ‘naïve’ about terrorism. Kyle Lawler, who was 18 at the time, was on duty when a colleague, Mohammed Agha, told him a member of the public had raised concerns about Abedi, who was hanging around outside the Arena at an Ariana Grande concert. The suicide bomber, dressed all in black and carrying a large, bulky rucksack, was reported by concerned parent Christopher Wild, who though it looked “dodgy” and had asked Abedi what he had in his backpack.

POLICE have carried out the highest number of stop and searches in seven years, with the figure rising by more than 50 per cent in 12 months, official statistics show. There were 558,973 stop and searches carried out in the year to March under section one of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (Pace) in England and Wales, according to Home Office figures published on Tuesday. The powers allow police to search people and vehicles for things like drugs or a weapon without a warrant.

Information Mr Wild told the inquiry he felt “fobbed off” when he raised the matter to security, but Mr Agha said he could not immediately pass on the concerns as he was guarding a fire exit and it was practice never to leave those unattended. Instead, eight minutes later, he told Mr Lawler because he had a radio, for him to pass on the report. The public inquiry in Manchester has heard that Mr Lawler, who is continuing his evidence later, claims he struggled to radio the control room to pass on the information. Minutes later Abedi, 22, left his position out of sight of CCTV in the foyer of the Arena, known as the City Room, and walked towards the crowd emerging at the end of the gig at 10.31pm on May 22 2017. The inquiry heard he was smiling seconds before he detonated his home-made rucksack bomb, packed with thousands of nuts and bolts, murdering 22 bystanders and injuring hundreds more. The public inquiry is looking at the background circumstances before and during the bombing.

COVID FATALITIES RISE BY 50 PER CENT AS SCIENTISTS REVEAL ONE-MINUTE BREATH TEST: Meanwhile, a non-invasive Covid-19 breath test that delivers results ‘within one minute’ is being developed by UK scientists. The technology, which is being worked on as part of a project known as TOXI-Triage, uses ‘breath signatures’ to ‘rapidly distinguish Covid-19 from other respiratory conditions’.

Two children are among dead as migrant boat sinks in the Channel TWO children aged five and eight are among the dead after a migrant boat sank off the coast of France yesterday [Tuesday]. At least four people have died, while eighteen people have been taken to hospital, according to French authorities. Military resources as well as civilian boats have been involved in the rescue operation after the vessel was seen to be in difficulty near Dunkirk. The people are thought to have been trying to cross to the UK, despite wind gusts of up to 18mph.

The alarm was raised by a sailboat which notified search and rescue. A number of resources were immediately contacted and despatched to aid the people aboard.

Operation These included French patrol boats and a helicopter from the Belgian Air Force as well as a fishing boat. Eighteen people have already been taken to hospitals in Calais and Dunkirk, according to the Maritime Prefecture of the

Channel and the North Sea. The search operation remains under way. An investigation into the causes of the sinking has been launched by the Dunkirk public prosecutor. Last night, Natalie Elphicke, MP for Dover and Deal, said: “It is terrible that tragedy has struck in the Channel again. People traffickers have no regard for life, no matter how old or young. “These perilous crossings must be stopped, once and for all, before there is more loss of life in these stormy winter seas.”

Increase This is the highest number of stops and searches since 2013/14 (872,518), but still below the peak in 2010/11 (1,179,746), the report said. It is also an increase of 193,419 (53%) compared to the 2018/19, when 365,554 searches were recorded. The report added: “The Metropolitan Police service accounts for half of the increase in the number of stops and searches in latest year.” Other forces accounting for large proportions of the increase were Merseyside Police (7%), Essex Police (6%) and South Yorkshire (5%).

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NEWS

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National News

Police officer cleared of murdering his lover faces jail for manslaughter A MARRIED police officer has been acquitted of murdering his long-term lover after she revealed their affair to his wife. A jury took just under three hours to find ‘man whore’ Timothy Brehmer, 41, not guilty of murdering mother-of-two Claire Parry. Brehmer had previously admitted the manslaughter of the married nurse who he had been having an affair with for more than 10 years. The police officer, who served with Dorset Police, will be sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court by Mr Justice Jacobs later on Tuesday. Ms Parry died during a “kerfuffle” in his car at a car park of the Horns Inn in West Parley, Dorset, on May 9. The court heard that while the pair were in the car, Mrs Parry had taken the Brehmer’s phone and sent a message to his wife saying: “I am cheating on you.” Brehmer claimed she acciden-

NOT GUILTY Timothy Brehmer tally suffered the fatal injury while he was trying to push her out of the vehicle so he could drive away. He told the court he had planned to go and kill himself because of the consequences to his family of their affair being revealed. The trial heard that in the days before her death, Mrs Parry had started to believe her

marriage to Andrew Parry, also a Dorset Police officer, was coming to an end as well as her relationship with the defendant. She had carried out research using an alias on Facebook into Brehmer and became convinced he had had at least two other affairs. Mrs Parry was in contact with a police officer called Kate Rhodes, who told her she had an affair with Brehmer in late 2011, and this made her see him “in a very different light”. Brehmer told the jury that Mrs Parry, 41, was angry and had ‘uncontrolled jealousy’ because she had found out about a previous affair of his, leaving him feeling “desperate”, and he planned on killing himself. At the time of the incident Brehmer was seconded to the National Police Air Service based at Bournemouth Airport. He had denied murder but admitted manslaughter.

Ex-BHS owner paid £200,000 cash loan to ‘lying cheating scumbag’ FORMER BHS owner Dominic Chappell paid £200,000 in cash as a loan to a businessman he later described to police as a ‘lying cheating scumbag’, a court has been told. Chappell considered his dealings with Paul Sutton, who did not have his own bank account, as a “commercial” expense as he had contacts and information that could help in the buyout of the now failed BHS high street chain, London’s Southwark Crown Court heard. Chappell, 53, who denies three charges of cheating the public revenue relating to his bankrupt finance company Swiss Rock Limited, allowed Mr Sutton to use his personal bank account. Chappell denies dishonestly choosing to evade paying tax on £2.2 million of income he

received from the BHS deal. Chappell, of Blandford Forum, Dorset, is charged with dishonesty regarding VAT, corporation tax and income tax between January 2014 and September 2016.

Impression He told the jury he “firmly” believed Mr Sutton, who had fronted a consortium which had tried to buy BHS, was “a credible businessman” who had fallen into “financial difficulties”. At first he believed he offered potential connections and information that could help with the BHS deal, but he later felt that Mr Sutton was “more of a hindrance than a help”. His first impression of Mr Sutton was also shaped by him

living in Mayfair and driving a car but it soon “became apparent it was all hot air”, Chappell said. Prosecutor Mark Bryant-Heron QC quizzed Chappell on the possible reasons why a businessman would not have a bank account. In response to Chappell’s answer that his bank account could have been cancelled or he had got into financial difficulties, Mr Bryant-Heron said: “Or, worse, maybe he is a bankrupt.” He added: “And you have handed him your bank card and made it open season on your Halifax account.” Chappell said he added money to his personal account as necessary for Mr Sutton to use as he was, at one point, seen as “key” to the deal.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Capital is wettest on record for 150 years

Force sets up a dedicated Covid breach task force

LONDONERS may be experiencing the wettest month for more than 150 years, the Met Office has said. With one of the wettest Octobers to date scourging the capital, the record for the most rainfall it has seen in any calendar month could also be broken. October is usually the wettest month in the UK and rainfall this year has been largely concentrated in Greater London, the home counties in south-east England, and a smaller area of north-east Scotland. The capital has had 139mm of rain up to the 25th, compared with the full month’s average of 78mm. With rainfall for the final six days of the month yet to be recorded, October 2020 is already ranking ninth rainiest in London since 1862. But a Met Office spokesperson said it is ‘quite likely’ this month will break the October record, and potentially for any month.

A Police force is establishing a dedicated team to attend reports of breaches of Covid-19 regulations. Avon and Somerset Police are using extra funding provided by the Government for forces to tackle the pandemic. Approximately £680,000 has been granted to Avon and Somerset to fund the Covid-19 team. The money will also be used to fund electric bikes for officers in the team when on patrol, and additional police cars in a distinctive livery. Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Watson, of Avon and Somerset Police, said demand for non-Covid police matters had dropped during lockdown. “However, the situation is different six months on, as demand for police attendance has increased to pre-lockdown levels,” she said. “Officers have responded magnificently, but combining traditional policing priorities with additional Covid-19 work is a challenge for forces across the country.

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Loss for Premier Inn PREMIER Inn owner Whitbread PLC (WTB.L) posted an interim loss but said it is still focused on ‘accelerating growth’ in Germany, having signed onto open another 15 hotels, the company said in a statement yesterday [Tuesday]. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, it reopened 97% of its UK hotels by the end of July, but its revenue has slumped to a loss of £725million in the first half of its financial year and warned that bookings had slowed since regional lockdowns were imposed in October.

Enhanced “Given the fast-changing nature of the Covid-19 environment in which we are operating, and increased levels of local and regional lockdowns, near-term visibility remains limited,” said the company. “However, as the situation evolves, Premier Inn remains well-placed to capitalise on the enhanced structural growth opportunities that will exist, driving attractive returns on investment in the long-term.” Occupancy for the UK business increased from 51% in August to 58% in September, but market performance slowed as local lockdowns started being implemented in October.

Curfew causes pub chain Revolution to close sites REVOLUTION Bars plans to close six of its sites, putting 130 jobs at risk, as it turns to creditors for help after the Government’s 10pm curfew cut its sales by more than a third. The company said its subsidiary, Revolution Bars Limited, is to set up a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) as it tries to slash costs. Creditors will vote on November 13 to accept the deal, which includes plans to close six bars, and reduce rents at seven others. Chief executive Rob Pitcher said: “The CVA proposed by the group’s Revolution Bars Limited subsidiary entity, if agreed

by landlords, is another proactive step to lower outgoings to help safeguard the future of the group and improve long-term performance.” Revolution Bars’ comparative sales had been bouncing back before the curfew was put into place, reaching nearly 78% of last year’s levels in the three weeks before the restriction was introduced. However, since then sales have fallen to less than half of last year’s levels, at 49.4%. The company said it expects the important Christmas period to be “severely compromised” and that it will not be possible to return to “near normal levels”

One in five say pubs are more important than ever before ...

HSBC beats estimates HSBC (HSBA.L) said it will look to pay a ‘conservative’ dividend if regulators allow it, after posting better-than-expected third quarter results. The UK-Hong Kong bank on Tuesday reported forecast-beating revenue and profits, boosted by lower loss provisions than analysts had predicted. “These were promising results against a backdrop of the continuing impacts of COVID-19 on the global economy,” chief executive Noel Quinn said in a statement. Quinn said HSBC would aim to pay a ‘conservative dividend if circumstances allow.’

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before spring at the earliest. Mr Pitcher added: “Throughout this extended period of distress caused by Covid-19, the group has sought to prioritise the health and wellbeing of its staff and customers, minimise its cash consumption, maintain good levels of liquidity to ensure its ongoing viability, and to be in a position to take advantage of opportunities that may arise once restrictions are lifted.” The subsidiary, Revolution Bars Limited, runs 50 sites across the UK and employs around 2,500 people. The company did not say which six bars are set to be closed.

National News

BUSINESS

Media falls victim to Woolworths hoax A NUMBER of media outlets fell victim to an online hoax claiming a beloved high street retailer was making a comeback yesterday. Woolworths, which closed in the UK in 2009 was supposedly opeing new branches in 2021 according to a tweet claiming to be from the company’s headquarters. The account, @UKWoolworths on Twitter said: “Here to save 2020! Woolworths is coming back to your high street, as a physical store! “A couple of legal things to get sorted, but we’re full steam ahead at Woolworths HQ. “We want to get this right, so we need your help. What do you want at your UK #YourWoolworths?”

Announcement A number of online news platforms, including the Daily Mail and retail trade publication The Grocer, immediately ran the story. But the announcement was quickly declared a hoax by a spokesperson for the Very Group which owns Woolworths, who said: “The Twitter account UKWoolworths is not connected to the Very Group.”

ONE in five people cherish their local pub more than ever before, a survey has found. Following three months of lockdown where most of the nation’s drinking establishments were closed, 20 per cent of people say their local pub now means more to them than ever, according to the research by Barclaycard Payments.

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NEWS

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Education

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

EDUCATION Times Students think pink for Breast Cancer charity day Every October in order to mark Breast Cancer Awareness month, pupils and staff at Tonbridge School raise thousands by turning the school - and some of the town - pink. The Times finds out more about this special event which this year raised over £5,000 TONBRIDGE SCHOOL’S annual Pink Day is an event held to remember and support those affected by cancer. This year, a socially distanced event took place on Friday October 16 with boys and staff at the public school wearing pink items and decorating well known school landmarks in pink in order to raise much-needed donations for Breast Cancer Kent. A spokesperson for the school told the Times: “Large areas of the School were dressed with pink decorations, including the stone boar heads on the main school gates, which sported pink bow ties, hats and feather boas.” He went to on to say that once dusk fell, several of the school’s buildings, including the Barton Science Centre and the Chapel, were illuminated in an ‘amazing light show which featured a projection of the breast cancer ribbon’. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this year the school’s Pink

IN THE PINK Students dressed up for Breast Cancer Awareness included Mrs Richie Chalmers, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon and Breast Cancer Kent Trustee, who spoke to Year 9 boys about her life as a surgeon, the amazing advancements made in breast cancer surgery, and the vital

‘Importantly, men can also get breast cancer: one in every 100 breast cancer cases in the UK affects males.’

THINK PINK Tonbridge School’s decorated entrance Day, helped to raise more than £5,300 to support the vital work of Breast Cancer Kent. “The School also uses its annual Pink Day to inform boys about cancer treatments and recovery, the toll this

takes on families and the vital role played by the NHS and cancer charities,” continued the spokesperson. “A series of talks took place throughout the week. Speakers

role Breast Cancer Kent plays in ensuring that local treatment is as good as anywhere in the country.” He said that Year 10 boys heard from Dr Russell Burcombe, a Consultant Clinical Oncologist based in Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone. “He focused on how survival rates for patients with breast cancer have improved, and explained the role of sophisticated technology in advancing those survival rates. “Importantly, the boys learned that

men can also get breast cancer: one in every 100 breast cancer cases in the UK affects males. Boys were reminded of the need to check their own bodies regularly and seek medical advice if they notice anything has changed. “Sixth Formers heard from three of their peers, who spoke movingly about their own journeys with cancer.” Juliet Burnett, Tonbridge School’s Community Action Manager, added: “We were delighted to raise such a fantastic sum to support Breast Cancer Kent. Charities need our support more than ever in these difficult times.” Helen Teare, a volunteer for Breast Cancer Kent and also a parent at the School, said the charity was ‘overwhelmed’ by the event. “Breast Cancer Kent is overwhelmed by the support given by Tonbridge this year. On a grey, cloudy day, the boys and buildings were an absolute vision in pink! All the money raised will go directly to help local patients who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer.”

Marlborough House celebrates excellence with Year 7 Scholarships We spoke to Eddy Newton, who joined Marlborough House as Headmaster in September, about celebrating excellence with the school’s Year 7 Entry Scholarship Programme. Previously Head of Felsted School and Chafyn Grove School, Chairman of IAPS and Chief Executive of The Cothill Trust, Mr Newton brings experience to the role and is excited about the opportunities this scholarship provides. Eddy Newton said “we believe that excellence should be recognised and so we are awarding Year 7 entry scholarships to children who show outstanding ability in various areas. Scholarships are a public recognition of the contribution that talented pupils make to school life and will be awarded on the basis of merit. Candidates will be judged on their current level of ability as well as their potential.” Scholarships are available in the following six categories: Academic, Art, Design and Technology, Drama, Music and Sport. There is also an All-rounder category where pupils can demonstrate aptitude in either two or three of the above categories. This scholarship also highlights the advantages to all pupils of the all-important last two years of Prep School life. Eddy Newton said “at MHS we value the opportunity that Years 7 and 8 offer children: the chance to grow and develop into well-rounded individuals, after following our varied Pre-Senior

For more information about the school, the first port of call is the Registrar, Emma Houchin: registrar@marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk The school is running private tours as usual.

Baccalaureate programme; and the chance to lead and shine.” When asked what makes Marlborough House so special, Eddy Newton said “the attention to the individual is outstanding. I know that lots of school claim that this is so, but here it really is. The warmth of the relationship between the staff and the pupils is lovely.” Talking of the school’s approach, which incorporates Character Education, Eddy Newton said “we want our children to work hard and make the most of all the opportunities on offer so that they grow into confident and interesting individuals. We hope they become self-assured but humble, aware of each other’s needs and their own good fortune – in short, decent citizens who are good company!” The school’s approach is clearly a recipe for success as Marlborough House, which was rated ‘Excellent’ for Academic and Pastoral Care in its latest ISI Inspection, had strong results this year with a 100% Common Entrance pass rate and a 100% Cranbrook Entrance Exam pass rate. The school was also a Finalist in the Independent School of the Year 2020 Awards. If you are interested in finding out more about their Year 7 Entry Scholarships, visit the school’s website: www.marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk

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Letters

NEWS

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

Your give thanks to your favourite local newspaper We really appreciate the great feedback from readers... Since the Times reappeared in print in July, we’ve received numerous thanks for our stories and for supporting our local community. Here’s a selection of kind words from some of our readers this week:

Get in touch with them to arrange. n Young people aged 18 and over with a long-term health condition or a learning disability. n Carers, including parent-carers, are eligible for the free flu vaccine if you receive Carer’s Allowance or are the main carer for a disabled person who may be at risk. Getting the flu vaccination is one way to protect the health of parent carers, children and young people with disabilities. Amanda Batten Chief Executive, the charity for families with disabled children

Council has strangled town

One way hasn’t eased traffic

Since lockdown there has been a notable increase in litter around Tonbridge. With my neighbours I have been conducting regular litter picks around the town and we are collecting more rubbish than ever. Much of the litter is caused by fast food takeaways being more popular, packaging from home deliveries and now facemasks. As a councillor I have arranged for additional bins, anti-littering signs and more regular bin collections, but we cannot go chasing the problem so further action is needed. I have therefore asked that Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council increases its fine for littering from £80 to the legal maximum. I hope that this can be adopted. Matt Boughton Councillor for Medway Ward, Tonbridge

Further to my previous letter regarding the confusion about exiting left from Monson Road onto Mount Pleasant Road, I note that traffic continues to use this route unabated. By keeping motorists in the dark, has TWBC discovered a rich vein of revenue by fining them? It’s one way of balancing the books I suppose. Sam Goodenough Tunbridge Wells

Cycles are also doing vanishing act You report [October 21] that roadside wands separating cyclists from motorised traffic are disappearing – their removal could be permanent. At the start of the coronavirus outbreak, which coincided with longer days and fairer weather, there was an increase in cycle use as commuters shunned public transport. Though not much of an increase over a very low base line given the town’s and its outer environs hilly terrain. Now that the days are drawing in and the weather not so clement cycle traffic will fall back to what it was previously: poor to almost negligible. They seem to be graced solely by weekend enthusiasts and this is no reason for their retention. Political gestures and virtue signalling should not get in the way of common sense. Taxpayer’s funds are not there to make politicians feel good about themselves. Ben Hardy Tunbridge Wells

Opinion isn’t triablism Russell Dean of the Green Party wrote last week about tribalism in politics citing a single example of a view expressed by an ex-councillor - hardly tribalism, more a passing comment – with a grain of truth perhaps. Most people I know regard politics and elections that come round every so often as mere distractions, things to do and then get on with life. If choosing one party over another counts as tribalism, then that’s a form of words Mr Dean may choose to use, the rest of us regard it as a democratic choice - it’s hardly ‘Lord of the Flies’. Perhaps his comments should be addressed to the military wing of the Greens – Extinction Rebellion. Robert Moore Tunbridge Wells

their own health. And we know that the Coronavirus pandemic has stopped almost half of families with disabled children from seeking medical care for themselves and their children. That’s why Contact is urging eligible families with disabled children in Kent to get the flu vaccine. n All children aged 2-11 – Primary school age children and children in year seven of secondary school will get their flu vaccination at school, so look out for the consent forms. Younger children and those who are home educated can get their vaccine at a community health clinic or your GP surgery. n All children aged 12-17 who have a long-term health condition or a learning disability – you can choose whether to get your child vaccinated at a community health clinic or your GP surgery.

Flu vaccinations extended Due to the Covid pandemic this year’s flu vaccination programme has been expanded to include more at risk groups including parent carers and children and young people with long-term health conditions or a learning disability. This follows new analysis that shows an increased risk of having coronavirus with flu. As a charity working to support parent carers we know many are often too busy to think about

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

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

Littering is unacceptable

I have watched over the years how the Borough Council has slowly strangled the very lifeblood out of the town. Firstly, they turned Calverley Road into a pedestrianised walkway for safety. No problem there, but over the years it has not been maintained properly and now looks a somewhat decayed setting. Then the joining of Mount Ephraim Road and Lime Hill Road, by closing off access to Grosvenor Road/Mount Pleasant Road. So we lost the well-known ‘Five ways’ Junction. Gradually other ideas were passed to change the appearance of the roadway to brick and block off the two accesses. So a visitor would simply bypass Tunbridge Wells and know nothing of what it actually looked like. Then of course with the arrival of Millennium we had the ‘infamous’ ‘Triffid’ Clock added, which was out of place to the surrounds. The constant changing of the paving, the many repairs to the ‘Piazza’ uneven slabs just wastes so much money. Also adding bollards and then removing them. e. The Council have constantly increased parking costs now 24/7, including Sundays, which all have the effect of driving away would be customers. Even the Car Parks have a ridiculous means of obtaining permits. This is short-sighted as if in (pre-Covid) times you met a friend and decided on a coffee, a bite or drink then you stayed and paid for however long you were there. Despite all these changes, I still have plenty of regard for Tunbridge Wells, but at the rate of change how long before the remaining shops cease trading? John Pearce Tunbridge Wells

NEWS

Weekly Comment

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Tom Tugendhat Conservative MP for Tonbridge & Malling

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

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

We cannot go on like this as devolution is pulling us apart ACROSS the UK, things are pulling apart. From Scotland and Wales, to Manchester and even here in Kent, we’re feeling forces that push us away from each other. Step by step, our country is in danger of becoming ungovernable. The pressures of decentralisation are increasingly strong and accelerated by social media. The bubble that forms around pressure groups and the shouting down of opposing voices leads to a forum that drowns out quiet voices. It is amazing how many people we meet and know personally are changed online. It’s hurting us all. Perhaps this shouldn’t be a surprise. Blair’s Labour began devolution in the 1990s to begin the reversal of the centralised state we had built to fight two world wars. Cameron’s Conservatives continued the process with the creation of metro mayors, now in places like Liverpool and Manchester. But after decades of trials, we know the model isn’t working. Instead of bringing power home it has achieved the most dangerous outcome – power without responsibility. That can never be right. Legitimate government must not only respond, and be accountable, to people, it must align that authority with the responsibility to find the money to deliver it. In government that means anyone making

promises must be able to pay for them. Today, in Britain, they don’t. That puts us in a strange arms race. From the First Minister of Scotland to the Mayor of London, local leaders have a political imperative to promise more and more and blame

‘Both local government and charities deliver help because they have the closest connection to our community’ Westminster when they don’t get the money. If they didn’t promise the moon they’d never win and they’re not responsible for how it’s funded. That must change and I would like to know how you think it should. From Parish Councils and Boroughs to County and country, local accountability is what makes power democratic. We have long understood this in Britain and know the importance of local representation. Richard Long and Michael Payne build on their work here in Tonbridge to keep the County’s education and transport going. Their local work

MAYORAL Cities like Manchester now have their own mayors like Andy Burham, but is it democratic?

translates into countywide action. Their decisions are grounded. Kent County Council has to decide how to raise much of its budget but some areas, like Scotland, have hardly touched the tax raising powers they have, so they’re not responsible for paying for their promises. When asked who will pay, today too many bodies use Homer Simpson’s slogan: ‘Let someone else do it’?

Cllr Matthew Bailey Cabinet member for Sustainability Tunbridge Wells Borough Council

That’s not good for accountability or democracy and it undermines communities. At this time of national emergency, that matters more than ever. As we share the burden we need to remember that those paying out may not be those paying in. Sometimes those who claim credit for a project haven’t had to justify the taxes that paid for it. Conservatives in Parliament voted £1.7million to help the most vulnerable in Kent because they’re responsible for social care and education, and £16million more for food charities to help the most in need. Both local government and charities deliver help because they have the closest connection to our community. But it feels as though that never happened because it’s not branded ‘Westminster’. That is not just a problem for Westminster, it’s a problem for the UK. It means our democracy is unaccountable, our leaders either making empty promises or being thought to fail despite fulfilling pledges, and that risks making the whole nation ungovernable. We need to take back control and align authority, responsibility and accountability. So here’s the choice – do we empower counties and regions, or go back to a more central state? Whichever we choose, we can’t go on like this.

Matt Bailey is a borough councillor for Paddock Wood West and the portfolio holder for sustainability on the cabinet. Matt is also a Chartered Tax Advisor and Chartered Management Accountant, and runs a software and accountancy business in Tunbridge Wells.

Christmas has not been cancelled in Tunbridge Wells despite Covid WE’RE just a few days away from the start of November, the time when the attention of many local residents and businesses turns to one thing – Christmas. So how will the festive season look in a Covid-affected Tunbridge Wells this year? While we must all continue to be careful, there is much to look forward to over the coming two months. First, the ice rink in Calverley Grounds is back. Skating will commence on Saturday November 14 and runs every day until the New Year. There will be dedicated slots for parents and toddlers and Bavarian Curling for intrepid groups of up to six. Entertainment will be laid on and refreshments will be available from the Calverley Cafe and Polar Bar. This is the Skating Rink’s 10th year in Calverley Grounds. To celebrate, it is making 500 free tickets available to children who turn 10 years old during 2020. The tickets are available for Saver Skate sessions with the lucky youngsters needing to be accompanied by a paying adult to qualify. Numbers are limited and tickets should be booked in advance. See www.skatetw.co.uk for more details. Meanwhile the Assembly Hall Theatre has

become one of the first theatres in the country to reopen. Helped by £500,000 from the government’s Culture Recovery Fund, it is running a superb programme between now and Christmas, including new residencies from London’s Comedy Store, top comedian Omid Djalili, The English Touring Opera and Thursday music nights organised by The Forum. It’s also putting on a pop-up pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, running up to three times a day from 18th December until 3rd January. Tickets for all shows can be booked at www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk.

Wonderland The Spa Valley Railway - another local organisation supported by £150,000 from the Culture Recovery Fund – will be running Santa Specials every Saturday and Sunday from 28th November, with more trips in the days running up to Christmas. Mince pies will be available, and children up to age 10 will receive a gift from the man himself. Grown-ups may also be interested in the railway’s Christmas Dining Steam Train, complete

FUN ON THE ICE The rink returns to Tunbridge Wells next month with sherry, canapés and a Christmas dinner, running on 12th and 19th December. Details are available at www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk. And, if you fancy a trip to the countryside, why not explore a wonderland of Christmas lights at the Bedgebury National Pinetum near Goudhurst? More details available at www. christmasatbedgebury.co.uk. And how will our town look? Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, the local Business Improvement District funded by local

businesses, is organising the town’s Christmas lights this year. It has purchased new lights including an installation for Fiveways by the Clock Tower. The new illuminations are due to light up for the first time on November 14. Finally, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the extravagant lighting displays that we see from some of our local residents. We hope to see many of these displays cheering up the borough again this year.

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Interiors

Heart of the home improvements Upgrade your kitchen Pages 26-27

Country life

Why young people are choosing rural living Page 24

Homes & Interiors

Property Focus NEW S

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Luxurious new apartments launch in the heart of Tunbridge Wells Offering stunning views and epitomising the contemporary style of Tunbridge Wells, apartment building Westcombe House is the place to buy your new home, as Lottie Bulmer finds out... TOWN centre properties are becoming harder to find especially for couples and families, but a new development on Mount Ephraim is hoping to change all that. Newly refurbished Westcombe House is a development of 34 new apartments with views over the town. A selection of studio, one and two bedroom contemporary apartments are available, making it perfect for couples and families alike. Based in a hub of cafes, art galleries and boutique shops, the new homes compliment the busy lifestyle of Tunbridge Wells residents but with close proximity to green spaces such as Dunorlan Park and Tunbridge Wells Common to unwind in. Corinne Thomas, Savills residential development sales team member spoke of the convenience

of the location. She said: “Westcombe House is an outstanding newly refurbished apartment building in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, conveniently located for access to local amenities and transport links.

Exceptional “The new apartments have an exceptional specification with contemporary fittings and appliances.” The interiors maximise both space and light, with contemporary kitchens and a lift service, with some apartments including balconies. Prices for one bedroom apartments start from £235,000 and £305,000 for two beds, with all homes falling inside the Help to Buy threshold.

LUXURIOUS LIVING: Westcombe House’s new homes in the centre of town

SPACIOUS AND AIRY: The new apartments maximise light and space.

Half of young people living in cities consider moving to the countryside MORE than half of under 34-yearolds from London are looking to move out of the city to rural areas. According to a survey, 55 per cent of young Londoners are more likely to move to the countryside as a result of Covid. The research, by The Country and

Land Business Association (CLA) spoke to over 1000 Londoners between the ages of 18 and 34, and of those, 55 per cent revealed they would consider moving to more rural counties such as Kent. Cheaper housing was cited as the main pull factor with 78% ranking it

as the most important reason in deciding to move. With 25 per cent of the rural population aged 65 or above (compared with 17 per cent of the urban population), rural areas are ageing faster than anywhere else in the UK. The movement of young people to the countryside - who are more likely to relocate than any other demographic - would be a welcome reversal of the ‘brain drain’ that many rural areas have suffered as young people switch from rural areas to cities for employment. CLA President Mark Bridgeman said: “The survey results paint a very clear picture: many young people want to move to the countryside as it’s a fantastic place to live. “It is energising and exciting to see a new generation that understand the value and opportunities of living and working

in the countryside. “There is now a window of opportunity to grow the rural economy, spread prosperity, support local communities and ‘level up’ our society. “We must not waste it.” However, there is concern that rural communities will be unable to seize this opportunity if landowners are unable to meet demand for houses or high-quality office space with fast internet connections. The CLA - through its Rural Powerhouse campaign - has been making the case for a simplified planning system and investment to create a fully connected countryside, with OpenReach pledging for full fibre broadband in rural areas by 2025. The campaign aims to close the rural productivity gap, adding £43bn to the economy per year while transforming the lives of

Stamp Duty break continues to help house purchasers A HOLIDAY on Stamp Duty introduced by the government continues to help buyers afford their homes, according to new figures. House sales rose by 21.3 per cent rise in September as a direct result of the stamp duty holiday according to HM Treasury. This follows a 15.6 per cent rise in August after the holiday was announced in July, which will last until March 2021.

Protecting Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: “With a third of Brits planning to spend savings from the tax break on home improvements and renovations, the temporary stamp duty cut is boosting business and protecting jobs. “This ranges from carpenters to cleaners, brickies and decorators, they can all benefit from each sale – helping us to further deliver on our Plan for Jobs.” The holiday was introduced as part of the government’s plan for jobs available for properties worth up to £500,000.

Is your rental property energy efficient? On a scale of A (the most efficient) to G (the least) during a void period. There are various schemes and incentives a property’s Energy Performance (EPC) rating currently available to assist in improving a gives an indication of how much it will cost to provide heating and lighting. property’s energy performance that landlords can take advantage of: Back in 2018 the government implemented n Gas Mains Provision: If a property is off the gas minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) for rented properties and in April 2020, it became network a landlord may be able to obtain, free of unlawful to rent any property (even to an existing charge a gas connection (max 23m in length) and tenant) that fails to meet the minimum required installation of gas fired central heating. n Green Homes Grant Scheme: EPC rating of an E, with only a handful of exceptions. Launched in 2020 the scheme In terms of the consequences of not provides incentives to homeowners complying with MEES, Landlords face (landlords included) to improve the financial penalties which can be up to £5000. green credentials of the UK Whilst the minimum rating required is housing stock. Grants are currently an E, rules are expected to available for two categories of become tighter by 2025 and we would work: advise landlords to put in place measures to A) Low carbon heating improve energy efficiency where possible, improvements particularly where there are grants B) Insulation measures e.g. available, to future-proof their property improved windows or doors, investment. A modern efficient boiler will improve the rating as will double-glazing if not already installed. Loft insulation is a very cost-effective measure to stop Natalie heat escaping whilst internal wall Boardman insulation is a more expensive (Director) solution which needs to be done

heating controls and insulation All the information you need is available at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-the-greenhomes-grant-scheme. Belvoir Tunbridge Wells also have a useful guide on our website plus a newsletter we can send to you if you wish. With energy efficiency high on the political agenda, landlords should be fully cognisant of MEES particularly given the government’s intention to raise the minimum EPC standard further from an “E”. So if you don’t want to go it alone, we are happy to help DIY landlords review their property portfolios for compliance with all of the current legislation, including energy efficiency standards, and offer 3 months free management to any of those who would like us to take care of everything. Call 01892 615333 or email tunbridgewells@ belvoir.co.uk or book via this link https:// tinyurl.com/y6moongl

If you are thinking of expanding your portfolio, then this fabulous rental property – with a good EPC rating – could be just what you are looking for: Investment Opportunity Tenants in situ n 2 double bedrooms n Centrally located n Courtyard garden n On-street parking n n

Price £250,000 Providing an ideal investment opportunity this 2 bedroom midterraced house is located in the sought after residential area of St James in Tunbridge Wells and the current tenants have been in situ for more than 3 years. This delightful property is neutrally

decorated throughout. The living room is at the front of the house and this leads through into the kitchen/ breakfast room inclusive of hob/oven, full size fridge freezer and washing machine. You will also find the bathroom on the ground floor which comprises a white suite complete with shower over the bath. On the first floor, there are 2 double bedrooms. The property benefits from a small courtyard garden at the rear providing all-important outside space. There is gas central heating and double glazing throughout and the lighting has been upgraded to energy efficient bulbs. On-street parking is available outside the property. There is also potential to add value by modernising the existing kitchen and bathroom.

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Kitchen cool: 13 ways to serve up a feast of style

Whether it’s a full-blown revamp or simple updates, Gabrielle Fagan stirs up some style solutions to give the heart of the home some love

ISLAND LIFE Kitchen islands and breakfast bars offer a versatile and adaptable space

UR kitchens are having to work harder than ever these days, as we’re spending more time in them – and we’re not just using them to cook up a storm. That eating area now has to be able to perform as a family space, an entertaining zone, and maybe a home office for many of us too. So it needs to not only look the business, but to function well to facilitate our busy and multilayered home lives. Looking to give your kitchen an update? Follow our recipe for creating the perfect kitchen in your home, whatever your budget…

1. Island story An island is still the most coveted design feature in a kitchen – and it’s easy to see why. It’s invaluable as a preparation area, and means you can flex your culinary skills without turning

your back on the party. “Kitchen islands and breakfast bars offer a versatile and adaptable space that can be used in so many ways,” says Joanne Emery, marketing manager at Burbidge. “They can create zones in your area, giving the illusion of two separate functional rooms, whilst keeping the room clutter-free by providing additional storage. Consider incorporating open shelving for items you use frequently.”

2. Dark matters Black is a design classic, whether for clothes or kitchen units, and paired

with a metallic it’s a recipe for sophistication. Choose handles, taps and kitchen accessories in brass, copper or bronze – the finishes which have taken over from last year’s polished chrome.

3. Cooking with colour Our growing desire for colourful spaces is reflected in more vivid kitchen cabinetry and COLOUR ‘colour pops’, STORY which allow for a A pop of more playful, colour gives individual look. your kitchen If you’re worried some you may tire of individuality units or tiles in a vibrant shade, or

they’ll look dated as fashions move on, simply shake up the space with colourful accessories instead. Paintings, storage canisters, or worktop appliances in funky shades could be just the colour ‘pop’ you need, and they can be easily moved or updated in the future.

4. Double identity There’s a real trend for kitchens to feel like extensions of living rooms now too. Our home-based lifestyle means we want spaces where it’s easy to cook for the family during the day, but have the ‘wow’ factor to transform into striking evening entertainment spaces at night, or just somewhere to relax and unwind. Ensure your colour scheme in both areas – the kitchen and the lounge area – harmonises, which will make the space look bigger and blend together.

Homes & Interiors

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

5. Savvy switch up If a full-scale revamp is out of the question, don’t underestimate the power of replacing cabinet door fronts, which can transform your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a refit. If you’re into DIY, repainting kitchen units is fairly straightforward – but ensure you prepare the surface well beforehand, by lightly sanding, cleaning with white spirit, and applying two coats of paint. B&Q has a good range of cabinet paint, including the GoodHome Durable Delaware Matt Cabinet & Wardrobe Paint, £20 for 0.75L. For a final flourish, invest in new handles and light switches to give the room an extra lift.

6. Ace the space If you haven’t got acres of space to work with, you need to make the most of ever corner. A cook’s trolley, a hanging rack for utensils, and ceiling-height cupboards can all be a boon – and the plus point is everything will be within easy each.

7. Pendant power Move over spotlights and track lighting – pendant lights currently rule in kitchens. One statement light, or a group of three, will brilliantly define a selected space, such as a kitchen island or dining area.

8. Make a splash Swapping a tiled splashback for a striking mural will take a kitchen from functional to fabulous. “Murals never fail in adding impact and are brilliant for adding drama and depth, giving an illusion of looking out onto a different scene, view or landscape. They can have a magical effect on a room,” says Michael Ayerst, managing director of Surface View, who recreate images on made-to-measure wall murals, canvasses, blinds and ceramic tiles. Gilded Paper Wallpaper Mural by Richard Hamilton Smith GS, from the Trunk Archive at Surface View, from £40 per square metre, Surfaceview.co.uk.

9. Modern mix “The enduring trend for kitchens is about mixing it up, whether that’s with contrasting materials such as wood and metallics, or textured and smooth finishes,” says Gary Griffin, UK sales manager UK at Rational (rational.de/en). “Cabinets incorporating the grain and beauty of timber are one of the keynote features of 2020. It’s hardly surprising, as natural materials such as wood suit both contemporary and classic homes and this is a great way to ensure that, no matter what your design choice, your home has a warm, relaxed feel.” Whilst neutral palettes remain popular, Griffin notes there’s been a move towards the ‘dark side’, with bolder choices of black or grey units – but unlike their shiny predecessors of the Nineties, these now come in an understated matt finish. Rational’s Uno handle-less kitchen combines an oiled cracked oak veneer with sleek matt black units in a Monolack, a new lacquered laminate finish. Features include a pull-out coffee machine module and a Passe-Partout internal storage system (from £12,000).

10. Take to the floor A feature wall, a stunning chandelier, and a ‘look at me’ choice of flooring in a punchy shade could be the perfect ingredients for a glamorous space.

11. Love a larder While the concept of a larder harks back to an era before refrigeration, they’re now the ultimate chic feature in today’s kitchens, and provide plenty of space for all those jars and ingredients that can clutter up the fridge or worktops. Want to know the rest of the kit on the dream kitchen list? A range cooker, instant hot water taps, remote-control extraction units, and integrated recycling units.

12. Worktop wizardry The worktop is the workhorse of any kitchen, and so it needs to be tough, practical and good-looking. View this feature as a way of demonstrating your taste and bringing individuality to the kitchen design. As it will have a big visual impact, don’t leave your worktop choice ’til last – instead start with the surfaces and match other key pieces, like the cabinets, to them. Decor tip: Veined marble is in vogue, as it’s more interesting than a plain top but won’t dominate. If you’re after a contrasting look, choose white marble and pick up on the veining colour for the paint shade on the cabinetry.

MIX IT UP Wood, metal and laminate make a modern mix of materials

13. Rose-tinted touches Pink is having a moment in kitchens. This soft shade can bring warmth to a cool space and works particularly well in an open-plan area, where you don’t want a harsh contrast between the living and cooking area.

IN VOGUE Veined white marble makes a more interesting feature than a plain top

A D V E R TISIN G FEATU R E

BUSINESS SPACE AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR TO LET TUNBRIDGE WELLS MOUNT EPHRAIM OFFICES 1200sq.ft FULLY REFURBISHED 5 Car Parking Spaces

TUNBRIDGE WELLS RETAIL HIGH STREET £40,000pax

TUNBRIDGE WELLS HIGH STREET OFFICES 300sq.ft £12,000pa all inclusive

TUNBRIDGE WELLS DEACON ESTATE LAMBERTS ROAD BUSINESS UNIT 5588sq.ft

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Wellington Gate OFFICES 1470sq.ft/1880sq. ft & TWO SUITES OF 4000sq.ft On Site Parking

TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONSDALE GARDENS OFFICES 865sq.ft AVAILABLE NOW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS CENTURY PLACE OFFICES 1800/9000sq.ft CAR PARKING

TUNBRIDGE WELLS HANOVER PLACE OFFICES 2200sq.ft 11 Car Parking Spaces AVAILABLE NOW

PADDOCK WOOD Maidstone Road NEW BUSINESS UNITS 907/1800sq.ft ONLY 2 UNITS REMAINING

TUNBRIDGE WELLS RETAIL CAMDEN ROAD 540sq.ft £20,000pax

TUNBRIDGE WELLS The Great Hall OFFICES 5787sq.ft 11 CAR SPACES AVAILABLE NOW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS RETAIL/OFFICES LITTLE MOUNT SION 1300sq.ft £16,000pax

We are here and open for business

A D VE R TISIN G FEATU R E

The Commercial Property Market continues to be active and we have a number of other properties For Sale or To Let. Please contact us on 01892 512422 or shane.raggett@broadlands.co.uk

On behalf of private clients we are instructed to market 6 High Street Tunbridge Wells available by way of a new FRI lease. This excellent retail unit is located at the entrance to the High Street adjacent to Tunbridge Wells Station. The entire property is available at £40,000pax. It is possible to lease just the Ground Floor & Basement at £35,000pax.

Broadlands Commercial Property Agents are offering New Business Units at The Forstal Business Park Maidstone Road Paddock Wood There are 7 Units, 6 of which are 907sq.ft each and 1 unit of 3100sq.ft. 4 of the small units are Under Offer. The rents are £12,000pax. The 3100sq.ft Unit is available at £31,000pax There is good on site loading/ parking and 24 Hour access.

Acting on behalf of a Private Family Trust we are offering excellent First Floor Offices at Hanover Place Church Road Tunbridge Wells. The offices are mostly open plan and extend to 2200sq.ft and have the benefit of 11 on site car parking spaces. A new FRI lease is available at £50,000pax. There is also some furniture available if required

Acting on behalf of a private client we have just let Unit 8 Chalklin Business Park Longfield Road Tunbridge Wells. This unit extended to approximately 3000sq.ft and has been let on a new FRI lease to a local furniture company at £25,000pax

Further details on the above and other commercial property can be obtained by contacting Shane Raggett at Broadlands Commercial Property Agents on 01892 512422 or shane.raggett@broadlands.co.uk

Homes & Interiors

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

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Prices from £205,000* westcombehouse@camroselondon.com 020 3983 2122

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*prices correct at time of printing

V4 RDS TW Westcombe House Advert 161020.indd 1

23/10/2020 11:34:49

Discretion is the Better Part of Valour The property market has changed astronomically

At SJD we work to source the right developers for

in the past few decades, bringing in a new era

your site - all of our sales are made confidentially

of off-market and private sales.

thus protecting both your identity and your

Unlike conventional methods, we offer discreet

individual interests.

marketing where details of your site are not openly marketed. Private sales generate a sense of exclusivity, boosting the likelihood of a quick and hassle-free transaction.

If you have a development opportunity that you would like to sell off-market, please contact us for a free appraisal.

Contact Stephen Donnelly on

07739 514350 or 01892 579937 Web: sjd-projects.com email: steve@sjd-projects.com

EASTERLING MARSH PARTNERSHIP Offering a comprehensive range of professional surveying services RESIDENTIAL SURVEYS Our professional, comprehensive residential surveys give home buyers peace of mind. Comprehensive home surveys We are regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and undertake the full range of RICS Home Surveys, as follows: n Condition Report - survey level one n HomeBuyer (Survey) Report - survey level two n HomeBuyer (Survey & Valuation) Report - survey level two n Building Survey (formerly called a Structural Survey) - survey level three n Market Valuation The RICS HomeBuyer (Survey & Valuation) Report includes a market valuation and a reinstatement calculation for buildings insurance purposes as standard. However, we can offer both these services under a separate contract if required.

PERIOD AND LISTED HOMES Period and listed homes need extra TLC - which means specialist expertise. Fortunately, we have this! If you’re thinking about buying a period or listed property, we can help you identify whether repairs and maintenance have been carried out appropriately, recommending suitable remedial action where necessary. If you’re already the proud owner of a period or listed home, we can help you plan and carry out works to make sure you maintain its integrity while securing its future. SURVEY FEES Our fees for undertaking surveys are tailored to the age, size and complexity of the property. They will also depend on the type of survey required. Please

Which report is right for you? To help you choose the most appropriate survey, please contact our team who would be happy to discuss the most appropriate level of survey for your proposed purchase. Understanding your report We pride ourselves on writing reports that are easy to understand, but we also know that buying a property is a major investment that most people don’t do very often. We want you to have complete confidence about your decisions, so we are happy to discuss in person any concerns or queries you may have following receipt of our survey report.

For more information please contact: Andrew Marsh BSc (Hons) MRICS - Managing Partner Easterling Marsh Partnership 7 Linden Close, Eridge Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HH Tel: 01892 577578 • Website: www.empsurveyors.com

do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your individual requirements. AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY Where appropriate, we use drone technology in our surveys, enabling us to inspect closely all areas of chimney stacks, roof coverings, rainwater pipes and gutters and main walls, which traditionally would be limited to a visual inspection using binoculars from ground level. (Please note that the use of aerial photography is subject to the property’s location, weather conditions and obtaining the owner’s permission.) Alternatively, lightweight pole cameras are used for roof inspections. These provide equally meticulous photographs and are very sturdy even in windy conditions.

Design. Inspire. Install.

We can still help design your new bathroom, even from a distance. Just download the Home Measure Guide from our website to get started. 01732 350911 townsbathrooms.co.uk

Rocky Hill, London Road, Maidstone auctions@cliveemson.co.uk 01622 608400

Inviting Entries We have five strategically placed Regional Offices from which the Auctioneers and their local support team for that region operate. We are continually inviting entries for our upcoming auctions which take place throughout the year. If you would like to arrange an auction appraisal please do not hesitate to contact us at auctions@cliveemson.co.uk, on 0345 8500333 or by completing the online form at www.cliveemson.co.uk/selling/.

The Team For the past 30 years we have strived to conduct auctions that are not only available to property professionals but to all parties looking to use this effective and transparent method of sale. Purchasing a property (or land), is normally the largest transaction that anyone will make in their lifetime. With the assistance of our highly trained team that operate within our family business we can help reduce the stress that this can cause.

A selection of Lots available in the upcoming November Online Auction

MAIDSTONE Detached office premises on large plot Guide Price: £460-470,000 + fees (EPC:E)

CHATHAM Period office premises with potential Guide Price: £300-320,000 + fees (EPC:G)

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Compound of twelve garages Guide Price: £115-120,000 + fees

STANFORD (NORTH), ASHFORD Village hall with potential Guide Price: £135,000 Plus + fees (EPC:G)

SITTINGBOURNE Double fronted shop with potential Guide Price: £90-100,000 + fees (EPC:TBC)

GILLINGHAM Freehold commercial block for investment Guide Price: £180-190,000 + fees

DOVER Substantial mixed block with potential Guide Price: £375,000 Plus + fees

Compound of four garages Guide Price: £36-40,000 + fees

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Guides are provided as an indication of each Seller’s minimum expectation. They are not necessarily figures which a property will sell for and may change at any time prior to Auction. Unless stated otherwise, each Lot will be offered subject to a reserve (a figure below which the Auctioneer cannot sell the Lot during the Auction). We expect the reserve will be set within the guide range or no more than 10% above a single figure guide. All lots are sold subject to legal documentation. Please check our website regularly at cliveemson.co.uk, or call 01622 608400 in order to stay fully informed. *Other non-optional fees including VAT, Stamp duty and further inclusions may also be payable within the contract terms. Buyers or their legal representatives are advised to inspect the Common Auction Conditions and Special Conditions of Sale along all other available legal documentation prior to bidding.

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Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Food & Culture

Opera night

The English Touring Opera is coming to town

Page 38

Freaky Treats

A scarily good recipe for Halloween

Page 43

A Fairytale staycation

We uncover North Yorkshireâ€™s hidden gems Page 47

Food & Culture

arts

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Your chance to enjoy a night out at the opera that chimes with the times we currently find ourselves living in The English Touring Opera begins its residency at the Assembly Hall on Sunday November 1. The company, which aims to make opera accessible to all, will be performing a programme that focuses on lone voices in isolation. Eileen Leahy finds out more...

Pictures by Paul Veer

“We believe in the operatic artform to inspire, entertain and move people in a unique way”

HE Assembly Hall is one of the very few, very lucky theatres in the UK that has been able to open its doors once again due to a series of financial grants awarded to it, as well as lowering its capacity numbers and introducing a raft of measures to ensure visitors can feel safe during their time spent there. In addition to names like the London Comedy Store, the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra and various cabaret and tribute acts being added to its newly curated autumn programme, the 80-yearold venue has also commissioned the English Touring Opera (ETO) to perform a series of shows which start at the beginning of November. It’s rather the coup for the Assembly Hall as the ETO, which was founded in 1979, has grown to be the UK’s largest leading touring opera company with the key aim of making the elite world of opera accessible to all. According to the ETO’s publicity officer Martin Weston the shows at the Assembly

Hall will consist of three programmes of music and dance spaced over three Sunday afternoon performances at 3.30pm which will reflect a number of issues but primarily that of isolation. “The first performance on the bill will feature dramatised song-cycle setting poems by Blake, Burns, Dunne, Raleigh and Pushkin. The second will feature settings of poetry set around WWII, from an English and Russian perspective.

Talented “Both of these programs will incorporate dance and are fully-staged. As is our final performance, which features operas for solo singers. La Voix Humaine features a woman during the last conversation with her lover, who is abandoning her. In Waterbird Talk, an ornithologist describes his oppressive marriage during the course of an illustrated lecture on the mating habits of waterfowl. “We designed a season based on solo opera and monodramas for solo singers in

Food & Culture

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

A MASTER CLASS IN PERFORMANCE English Touring Opera members will perform a number of pieces including La Voix Humaine and The Heart’s Assurance piano during lockdown, and have been working to bring this to life with a fantastic cast of singers, pianists, dancers, directors and choreographers ever since we have been able to get back into the rehearsal room this autumn,” says Martin. “This format allows the productions to be created and performed in line with social distancing measures, whilst still creating a powerful, dramatic musical performance.” It’s fair to say then that audiences can expect a varied and unique bill from the ETO company who, Martin says, cannot wait to tour again. “We are incredibly excited to be able to get back doing what we do best: making live opera that we can take to people around the country. “In March, we were forced to cancel our Spring 2020 tour after just two venues due to the Covid-19 crisis. Despite this, the company took the decision to still pay its cast, creative and production freelancers their full fees for the whole tour.

WILCO

the waterboys

“We have been monitoring government guidance closely, working behind the scenes to design a season that could entertain and move our audience whilst keeping them, our artists and our staff safe” “Many of these freelance artists collaborated with ETO during lockdown, producing digital content to reach ETO’s audiences during a time of isolation. Projects included a series on online singing lessons for children and adults, interactive masterclasses and discussions of the art of making opera. The company also gave its

saving grace FT. ROBERT PLANT & suzi dian

debut broadcast, viewed over 13,000 times.” And although Martin says the ETO company we were grateful for the opportunity to stay connected with their audiences digitally during lockdown, as a company specialising in live opera they have always been determined to return to theatres as soon and as long it is safe to do so. “We have been monitoring government guidance closely and had been working behind the scenes to design a season that could entertain and move our audience whilst keeping them, our artists and our staff safe,” explains Martin. The Assembly Hall’s artistic director JJ Almond is equally as excited for the ETO’s forthcoming performances. “We usually have one opera tour a year, but I want to expand that, by inviting the nationally recognised and award-winning ETO company. Why would I not pick them? They are not sitting on their laurels, they are fighting back getting a tour together and as a bonus we are getting works that are not often toured so it really is a case of miss it miss out! You might say it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to see them.” JJ goes on to say that he believes the ETO will offer the people of Tunbridge Wells and beyond a different way of experiencing opera. “The ticket prices are lower than a full production and boast some works not often presented to the public by some phenomenal composers including Britten and Shostakovich. “The ETO are doing something that is actually responding to the pandemic – and that should be embraced and supported. What more could you want on a Sunday afternoon by coming along in order to enjoy, avoid the darkness and round off your weekend! Opera is no longer something for the elite.” Performing at the Assembly Hall and elsewhere around the country will be an ETO troupe of seven singers, three pianists and three dancers/ choreographers. “In addition, we have a four-person production team: Production Manager, Company Stage Manager, Technical Stage Manager and the Production Electrician,” adds Martin.

“Performing live allows us to perform some of the greatest music ever written, collaborate with immensely talented artists, and to connect with all sorts of people across the country from avid opera-goers to new audiences who are trying the artform for the first time.” Why does ETO be think it’s so important to make opera accessible to all? “We believe in the operatic artform to inspire, entertain and move people in a unique way. Our mission is to make sure that people across England, from all backgrounds, are able to experience this art form live, and to feel a connection with the performers and artists making it.” Tickets for the 3.30pm shows start from £17.75 for those aged under 35 who are also on the ETO mailing list. Otherwise you can buy them from the box office from £22.75 www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk To find out more about the ETO visit www.englishtouringopera.org.uk

Who are the English Touring Opera? English Touring Opera (ETO) was founded in 1979 with the aim of providing opera for all across England. Our aim is to offer opera to everyone, with a varied repertoire of high-quality professional productions featuring some of the finest talent in opera. Since then ETO has grown to be the leading touring opera company in the UK. As well as two national tours a year, which in 2019 saw ETO visit 29 venues, the company tours two specially commissioned operas for children and young people with special educational needs, a series of creative workshops for older people with dementia, and more than 70 workshops for people of all abilities and ages. Altogether, ETO’s work reaches over 50,000 people every year.

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Food & Culture

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Bordeaux on a budget Surprised at the quality-to-price ratio in this price bracket, Times Drinks Editor James Viner, raises a glass to beautiful bottles of Bordeaux to suit all palates and wallets... AS THE clocks have changed, now is the perfect time to wrap up warm and dish out some tasty autumnal comfort fare to combat the cold. With its mishmash of assorted terroirs and wide-ranging winemaking approaches, Bordeaux offers bottles that are not only classy and distinctive but are great companions for assorted dishes. Fanning out from the Gironde estuary in southwest France, Bordeaux is the largest and most famous fine wine district on earth, regularly producing over 600-700 million bottles annually (England rarely exceeds 15 million), nearly 90% red. It’s a spring of extremely multifaceted, ageworthy wines, whose top classified estates have set the standard for greatness and commercial victory – Bordeaux accounts for around 80% of fine wine traded worldwide. But look past the top one or two hundred, or so, and you’ll find some interesting wines around the £8-£20 price tag. Here are a few stellar, value-for-money, affordable bottles to try with autumnal dishes…

Bordeaux’s (often mediocre) crémant is made only from grape varieties that are used in the region’s still wine production – in this case thin-skinned, waxy sémillon and fruity muscadelle. Skip sticky prosecco, this zingy, new sub-£9 French wine on the supermarket block is the crisp, dry, refreshing and surprisingly sophisticated (given the price) traditional method sparkler to be seen with this autumn and winter. Expect racy acidity, green apples, white flowers, light brioche and lemon-zest characters. Everyday fizz so decent it begs the question, why do we ever outlay more?

Would make a great aperitif or crack it open for canapés, seafood, salads and fish pâté. Just make certain you get to Iceland before everyone else does (or order online). Stand-out personality for £8.75 and my surprise wine of the month. 2) MAJESTIC OLD-VINE, SILKY RIGHT-BANK RED FROM A FABLED VINTAGE & ST-EMILION SATELLITE Château Tour Bayard 2016, MontagneSaint-Émilion (Majestic, £11.99 mix six; Vinatis, £19.60) It pays to look beyond Bordeaux’s most storied appellations. 2016 is very likely the best consistently great red Bordeaux vintage I’ve ever tasted. This is an appetizing merlot-dominated claret with a bit of age and also a few more years’ life in it. All the parts sing from the same page: cherry, liquorice, plum, blackcurrant, light oak spice and sinuous tannins. 85% merlot with a dab of cabernet franc adding leafy perfume and crispness. Enjoy this polished, plush and succulent red with roast beef, game and mature hard cheeses. It’s full-bodied, generous and fleshy, yet maintains a quiet elegance and has real pace and refreshment. Decant and ask a socially-distanced friend to guess what it is. Even more nuanced the next day.

3) LUSCIOUS, HEDONISTIC, CREAMY, FRESH & GOLDEN CLASSIC DESSERT WINE Waitrose No. 1 Château Suduiraut, Sauternes (Waitrose, £16.99, 37.5cl) Half bottles are exceptionally worthwhile because they tend to develop relatively quickly. I make no apologies for doting on unctuous and potent Sauternes from Bordeaux’s prime sweet white wine district. These superb wines are made amongst the rolling south-eastern vineyards, in the southern part of the Graves, where

1) LET’S GET FIZZICAL – MUST-TRY COOL CRÉMANT. KIR ROYALE ANYONE? Maison de la Rougerie Crémant de Bordeaux Blanc Brut (Iceland, £8.75) A small amount of traditional method sparkling wine has been made in Bordeaux since the end of the nineteenth century. Unlike most wines that are produced from chardonnay and pinot noir,

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the confluence of the cool, spring-fed Ciron and the warmer waters of the tidal Garonne helps to produce damp autumnal mists that permit pourriture noble – ‘noble rot,’ a beneficial fungus that attacks ripe, undamaged white grapes, causing them to shrink and lose their water content, whilst concentrating sugar, acidity and flavour. This luscious sémillon-led example from one of the best Sauternes producers ticks all the boxes: lush and fresh, all at once. Think butterscotch, lemon curd, poached peaches and apricots, with a lick of orange peel, a hint of marmalade and a touch of mushroom. Long and delicious with finely balanced acidity. Treat yourself. No hurry to drink up but it’s resplendently and opulently pleasurable already. Superb honeyed, mouthfilling complexity from a top-notch vintage. A fine accompaniment to savoury Thai cuisine, salty blue cheese, Peking duck, a fruity crème brûlée, tarte tatin or seasonal pumpkin pie. Château Roumieu Sauternes 2016/2017 (£10) from the Co-op, the most widely available supermarket on the Deliveroo app, would be a splendid – if less exalted – highstreet alternative. 4) RACY SINGLE-VARIETAL BOTTLE FROM BORDEAUX’S DRY WHITE WINE PIONEER Château Doisy Daëne 2018, Grand Vin Sec, Bordeaux Blanc (The Wine Society, £20) Accounting for around 12% of Bordeaux production (it was 45% seventy years ago), white Bordeaux – whether dry like this or deliciously sweet like Sauternes – is ignored by a multitude of oenophiles. Produced entirely from old-vine sauvignon blanc grapes, this is an excellent example of how good a dry, judiciously oaked, bottle of white Bordeaux wine can be. Its creamy and rich texture pulls one in for another glass across a smudge of citrus peel, smoke, fennel, greengage and a smear of lime, brioche, yellow apples and white peach. Stunning! A youthful winner with pumpkin/butternut squash risotto, warm goats’ cheese salad, fish (especially bass, sole, trout and turbot) or creamy seafood.

Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

Food & Culture

food

CHAMPION Floortje Hoette, Chief Executive of Produced in Kent

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Why supporting local can boost your happiness as well as the economy A new campaign encouraging us all to show loyalty to our local food and drink establishments has been launched. Eileen Leahy discovers more about the Buy Local South East initiative which also has a feel-good factor

URING these testing times we need any dose of positivity and happiness we can get don’t we? Well Produced in Kent, an organisation which aims to promote and champion food, drink and artisan goods made and then sold in our county has recently collaborated on a new campaign.

The Buy Local South East (BLSE) project is rolling out across Kent, Sussex and Essex after winning funding from South East Local Enterprise. The principle aim is to get us all supporting our local epicurean suppliers and in turn feel good about ourselves, knowing we are helping them - and also boosting the economy.

SHOP LOCAL Support your local food and drink establishments instead of the major chains

“This new campaign encourages and improves the financial health of local food industries and creates new relationships with existing and future customers.” The fact that at the same time we are also having safe, positive social interactions with people - mouthing a hello from behind our masks or waving to people we might know while out and about - helps to up our happiness quota by boosting endorphins. “Whether you pop into the local bakers for your freshly baked bread, nip

into the greengrocer for your weekly fruit and veg, or visit the butcher’s for a joint of meat, new research (published by Gillian M.Sandstrom and Elizabeth W.Dunn in Sage Journals) has proven that each of these interactions helps not only to boost the local economy but it goes a long way towards increasing your feeling of happiness and

belonging,” a BLSE spokesperson explains. Floortje Hoette, Chief Executive of Produced in Kent comments: “A sense of belonging is vital. Strong social networks and neighbourhood relations can impact the quality of life.” She goes on to say that the organisation’s new initiative which is

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Food & Culture

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

being supported by the likes of Sankey’s and Geography wine bar locally, builds on the success of Produced in Kent’s Help Kent Buy Local campaign. Launched a week after lockdown it has already seen more than half a million interactions from businesses listing, and customers searching for the best way to source food. “We want to work together with the surrounding regions to create real change in consumer habits. Over the past few months, we’ve seen an enormous increase in local shopping but now we must sustain this change. “For this to happen, it’s got to matter, it’s got to be personal and relevant to every shopper, and what could be more relevant than our own happiness and that of our local community?”

Did you know that Kentish raspberries are frightfully good for you? Vikki Rimmer shares a healthy recipe for Halloween... While trick or treating may be out this Halloween, having fun and sampling the best produce from Kent is definitely in. Watts Farms in Kent have put together a stunning list of

a raspberry and marshmallow eyeball smoothie recipe to try (below). Raspberry season is still ongoing at the farm in Farningham and punnets of these blood-red treats are available via Watts Farms new online home shopping delivery service.

Frightfully good raspberry and marshmallow eyeball smoothie Ingredients: n 1 punnet of raspberries n 2 bananas n 1 punnet of blackberries n half cup of milk or almond milk/soya milk n Marshmallows n Blueberries or chocolate chips for eyes n Paper straws

Support Growers, producers, retailers and hospitality outlets in the three counties will benefit from access to training, coaching and even one-onone support. The campaign will encourage and improve the financial health of the three region’s food industries by helping them to build new business relationships and create new relationships with existing and future customers. Others participating in and around Tunbridge Wells include The Abergavenny Arms pub and deli in Frant, The Vineyard in Lamberhurst and Verdigris in Tonbridge. BLSE has also launched the Caring Customer Pledge which is encouraging people to sign up in order to show they are staying safe and following government guidelines on social distancing when dining or drinking out. Pubs, restaurants and cafés are encouraged to do the same and show their support courtesy of sporting a Caring Customer Pledge logo. For more information visit www.buylocalfoodanddrink.co.uk

Halloween produce including a variety of pumpkins, toffee apples, sweets and sweet treat cakes (including the best chocolate spider’s web cake we’ve seen!) but, perhaps the sweetest treat from Watts Farms are their locally grown raspberries. Watts Farms have sent over

SUPPORT: The Abergavenny Arms, Veridgris and Sankey’s are just a few local establishments supporting the Buy Local South East campaign

Method: 1. Take two straws and two marshmallows and gently press the straws into the sweets. 2. Put the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for 30 seconds then stir until the chocolate is melted. Wait for the chocolate to cool a little then drop two small chocolate ‘drops’ on to the marshmallows and pop them in the fridge for 10 mins to set. 3. Mix the chilled milk, bananas, raspberries and blackberries in a blender. 4. Serve in a tall glass and enjoy! www.shop.wattsfarms.co.uk

I F YO U LI KE CR IM E T HR IL L ER S - YO U ’L L L OV E DA N G ER Danger is a gripping, fast-paced thriller – a genuine page-turner! Set in the beautiful countryside around Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells, the relentless action also switches to the windswept shores of the Black Sea and to the dramatic coastline of Cornwall. At its heart, Danger is a compelling story depicting the hopelessness, desolation and suffering of those caught up in people-trafficking across Europe.

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Motoring News

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Motoring News

This week… n New Porche hybrid n Renault eVision n Mustang in Europe

Renault signals future EV intent with Megane eVision concept THE FUTURE The Megane eVision concept

Porsche revises Panamera range with updated hybrid models

UPGRADE Porsche has updated its range of Panamera models PORSCHE has broadened its Panamera range of cars with three updated variants. The headline introduction is a new Turbo S E-Hybrid model, which takes the crown as the most powerful Porsche model currently on sale. Thanks to a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine combined with an electric motor, the Panamera pushes out 690bhp in total, resulting in a 0-60mph time of around three seconds and a top speed of 196mph. Prices for this model start from £140,130. A larger battery – increased from 14.1kWh on

the older models to 17.9kWh – also means that the Turbo S E-Hybrid will manage up to 31 miles on electric power alone while returning combined CO2 emissions of 62-63g/km.

Turbocharged A lower-powered Panamera 4 E-Hybrid has also been introduced, bringing a still respectable 456bhp from a 2.9-litre V6 which, again, is combined with an electric motor and batteries. Zero to 60mph will take 4.1 seconds while

flat-out it’ll do 174mph. It takes its place underneath the previously-announced Panamera 4S E-Hybrid. Prices for the 4 E-Hybrid kick off from £83,720. Finally, there’s the Panamera 4S which features no electrification but uses a twinturbocharged V6 engine with 434bhp. All cars have been given a light refresh over the previous-generation Panamera, while the estate-style Sport Turismo version remains available across the variety of powertrains, alongside the standard hatchback.

High-performance Ford Mustang Mach 1 coming to Europe for the first time

RENAULT has showcased its vision for the future with this – the Megane eVision concept. Unveiled at the French manufacturer’s eWays event, the concept will be the first Renault to use an advanced CMF-EV platform and kicks off a commitment by the firm to reduce its CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030. The hatchback features ‘one of the thinnest batteries on the market’, according to Renault, which work alongside a compact powertrain in order to deliver a spacious and practical cabin. A signal of what the production version – which will arrive in the UK in 2022 – will look like, the concept features a 60kWh battery which ensures a ‘long’ range according to Renault, while 130kW charging accessibility allows the car to accept a rapid charge. Renault claims that the concept will be able to go from 0-60mph in under eight seconds, too.

Masterpiece The exterior of the car features design hallmarks which would usually be associated with an SUV, but with the short overhangs of a more compact vehicle. It receives LED Matrix headlights which are brought together by a 3D display. Inside, Renault says that there’s a sleek instrument panel found at the front of the cabin while illuminated edges give the interior of the car a lighter look. Luca De Meo, CEO, Groupe Renault, said: “With the thinnest battery on the market, a 4.21-metre compact body offering the roominess of a C-segment vehicle, The Mégane eVision is a masterpiece of packaging. We took our 25-year best-seller and took it to the future.”

CLASSIFIEDS

LIMITED EDITION The Mustang Mach is confirmed for sale in Europe THE FORD Mustang Mach 1 has been confirmed for sale in Europe for the first time. This limited-edition version of the iconic muscle car is claimed to be the ‘best-handling Mustang ever to reach Europe’, boasting performance upgrades to the exterior bodywork, engine and mechanical underpinnings. Under the bonnet, the Mustang’s V8 engine has been modified with 454bhp and 529Nm of torque. Upgrades include an open air induction system, intake manifold and 87mm throttle bodies from the Mustang Shelby GT350. There are two gearbox options in the form of a 10-speed automatic or six-speed manual. The latter is a high-tech Tremec unit that features a

twin-disc clutch to better manage high-RPM gear changes and gets automatic rev-matching. To improve grip on the track, the Mach 1 benefits from a series of aerodynamic upgrades such as a new front splitter, new side grilles, rear diffuser and prominent rear spoiler. These combine to produce 22% more downforce than the standard Mustang GT.

Unique MagneRide adjustable suspension makes the Mach 1 primed for track use when combined with stiffer front springs and anti-roll bars, with the 19-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4

tyres further improving grip. Inside, there’s an Ebony colour scheme and aluminium detailing, leather sports seats, a unique start-up graphic for the 12-inch digital instrument cluster, and a unique plaque on the sill. Matthias Tonn, Mustang Mach 1 chief programme engineer for Europe, said: “The original Mach 1 delivered the ultimate in production Mustang performance and proved itself with success in motorsport. “The new Mach 1 is the most capable Mustang ever to reach Europe, with track-ready ability and a unique style that is more than worthy of wearing such a legendary badge.”

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Food & Culture

Books

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

The bookcase… Life in lockdown has given many the chance to fall in love with reading again. Here’s our pick of this week’s top tomes to enjoy…

FICTION

Inside Story by Martin Amis

Published in hardback by Jonathan Cape, priced £20 (ebook £9.99). Available now Packaged as a follow-up to the memoir Experience, this new ‘novelised autobiography’ focuses on one romantic entanglement and three significant deaths in the life of one of Britain’s most feted and vilified living writers. The relationship is with Phoebe Phelps, who sounds like the model for Nicola Six in London Fields. She puts the narrator through exquisite torment for years, before her own terrible secret is revealed. Three deaths are included and of Amis’ literary heroes: Nobel laureate Saul Bellow, essayist Christopher Hitchens and poet Philip Larkin. There is much to infuriate here and his style is as uniquely melodramatic as ever. But there is much to admire too – extraordinary turns of phrase, compelling insights and observations; and a passion for the written word. (Review by Dan Brotzel)

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Just Like You by Nick Hornby Published in hardback by Viking, priced £16.99 (ebook £9.99). Available now Just Like You is another classic romcom from the brilliantly observational Nick Hornby. Set in London just before the Brexit referendum, it negotiates subjects of race and politics with relationships, ageism, class and families. It’s an easy, light-hearted read – a will-they-won’t-they tale centred around a white, 41-year-old teacher called Lucy and a black, part-time butcher called Joseph, who is almost half Lucy’s age. There’s infidelity, racism,

an alcoholic ex and a mother who’s unbelievably hard work. The chapters are broken down into seasons, and you’ll eat up the pages in no time at all, envisaging every character and scenario in vivid colour, thanks to Hornby’s gorgeously descriptive prose. Like many he’s written before, there’s no doubt this could be made into a film – all it’s lacking is a bigger ending. (Review by Claire Spreadbury)

Pizza Girl by Jean Kyoung Frazier

Published in hardback by HQ, priced £12.99 (ebook £5.99). Available now

8/10

NON-FICTION

Men Who Hate Women: From incels to pickup artists, the truth about extreme misogyny and how it affects us all by Laura Bates Published in hardback by Simon & Schuster, priced £16.99 (ebook £8.99). Available now The woman who made us all aware of everyday sexism has turned her attention to a new subject: the manosphere. In this exposé Laura Bates goes undercover to lay bare the various communities of men with extremist, misogynist views, who she believes pose an

8/10

Set in Jean Kyoung Frazier’s hometown of Los Angeles in the Noughties, Pizza Girl follows Jane, a pregnant 18-year-old, working at a pizza shop and grappling with the death of her alcoholic dad, whose behaviours she can’t help but copy. Her boring life is upended when she develops an obsession with 39-year-old Jenny. It’s a sad picture of a lonely girl who feels like motherhood is being thrust upon her, and deals with her emotions by blocking out those who love her, and indulging in self destructive behaviour. Frazier’s style is best when describing the lives of those who buy pizzas from Jane, but less convincing when it comes to her personal life. You’re left unsatisfied at the end, but this may be Frazier’s point – we’re all always reaching for more. (Review by Prudence Wade)

7/10

increasing threat to women’s safety and wellbeing. From pickup artists to so-called incels (involuntary celibates), Bates meticulously unpicks the ways members of these groups are galvanising and intensifying their beliefs and luring young recruits into their fold. She also explores the link between the psychology behind domestic violence, an everyday terror plaguing hundreds of thousands of women, and terrorist atrocities. If you don’t know your MGTOW from your foids, or your brigading, be prepared to get to grips with a radical and broad lexicon. An illuminating read, bringing urgent attention to the hatred quietly building in the shadows. (Review by Jemma Crew)

AUDIOBOOKS (FICTION AND NON-FICTION) 1. Troubled Blood by Robert Galbraith

7. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

2. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman

8. The Killing Room by Peter May

3. Think Like A Monk by Jay Shetty

9. The Vanishing Point by Val McDermid

4. The Collector by John Fowles

10. Killing For Company by Brian Masters

5. The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens 6. Watermelon by Marian Keyes

8/10

(Compiled by Audible)

CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE WEEK

Dare To Be You by Matthew Syed, illustrated by Toby Triumph Published in paperback by Wren & Rook, priced £8.99 (ebook £6.99). Available now

Dare To Be You is a follow-up to the bestselling You Are Awesome, written by former table tennis champion, Matthew Syed. Promising to help its readers defy self-doubt and fearlessly follow their own path, the book recalls times from Syed’s childhood that really challenged him. But mostly, it reveals how he overcame them and why being yourself is really the most important trait of all. Perfect for tweens and teens, my 11-year-old gobbled this up and revealed she ‘didn’t like the word normal anymore’. It teaches kids it’s good to be different; there will be lots of bumps in the road, but you can figure out a way to get through them. It’s chest-beating and powerful, and full of facts – like humans shed 600,000 particles of skin every hour. It talks about ‘kid doubt’ and how that can lead to poor decision making and feeling rubbish, and tells stories about famous musicians, companies and sports stars who have stayed true to themselves, done things differently and massively succeeded. It’s hugely inspiring, and should be read by every teen on the planet. (Review by Claire Spreadbury)

9/10

Travel

travel

Wednesday October 28 | 2020

Food & Culture

Unlock North Yorkshire’s magic through The Secret Garden A new film adaptation is showcasing the area’s beauty, says Sarah Marshall

THE SECRET GARDEN Helmesley Walled Garden’s vibrant colour

INCE childhood, I’ve had an endless fascination with locked doors, hidden places and areas seemingly off-limits; a niggling desire to make new discoveries and find out what lies beyond. I know I’m not alone. But what is it about secret spaces that piques our curiosity so much? It’s a topic I discuss at length with my partner on a rainy 4.5-hour drive from London to Yorkshire. According to research from car-sharing club Zipcar UK, three-quarters of us have our most meaningful conversations in cars. Driving for 73 minutes is key to unlocking the deepest discussions, apparently – which leaves us another 197 minutes to verbally unravel other complex conundrums currently troubling the world. The spark for our great debate is a new film adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic children’s novel, The Secret Garden. Starring Colin Firth, Julie Walters and Dixie Egerickx, the CGIenhanced spectacular has finally been released in cinemas, following several Covid-related delays. It tells the story of Mary, a spoiled orphan raised in India, who’s sent to live with her uncle in Yorkshire. She arrives to find a household tormented by illness and a loss of loved ones. But the discovery

HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP A one night stay at the Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa costs from £140 per room per night (two sharing), including full English breakfast. Book through Pride of Britain Hotels (0800 089 3929; prideofbritain hotels.com). For more information on the destination, visit Welcome Yorkshire (Yorkshire.com).

CGI ENHANCED Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden has been adapted for screen

of an abandoned, overgrown garden becomes a place to cultivate a happier future, allowing friendships to blossom and new beginnings to unfurl. Although shot in various spots around the UK, the film features many locations in Yorkshire; grand manor houses, medieval ruins and majestic landscapes make the region a natural fit. On a quest to discover what’s on offer, I

‘Working with the seasons is very special; time passes in a different way’ base myself in Helmsley for the weekend, at the foot of the North York Moors National Park. A picturesque market town of cosy pubs and cafes with glowing windows, it’s a nostalgic, atmospheric setting, plucked from an author’s imagination. Occupying one of the historic stone buildings is The Feversham Arms and Verbena Spa, a former coaching inn rebuilt by the Earl of Feversham in 1855 and since transformed into a warren of homely rooms centred around an outdoor heated pool.

PRESEREVD Fountains Abbey is England’s best preserved example of a medieval monsastry

When we arrive too late for restaurant curfews, a table is laid next to the window in the living room of our suite;upscale, private in-room dining is one of the few happy consequences of Covid restrictions. Another convenience is the hotel’s location – a ten-minute stroll from Helmsley Walled Garden, used as one of the magical garden settings in the film It’s a place full of life. “Working with the seasons is very special; time passes in a different way,” says Tricia Harris, who helps to manage the five-acre garden, which largely relies on volunteers for support. Enclosed by ivy-clad stone walls and sitting in the shadow of 12th century Helmsley Castle, it’s a maze of gravel paths and hidden corners. It’s also intended as a place to heal and reflect, by harnessing the restorative power of nature – a theme key to the film and Frances Hodgson Burnett’s original book. Built in 1758 as a kitchen garden for the Feversham family at nearby Duncombe Park – which serves as Mary’s new home, Misselthwaite Manor, in the film – it was abandoned in the 1980s until local woman Alison Ticehurst revived it as a centre for horticultural therapy in 1994. “If you feel like the world’s on top of you, you can journey through the garden, find somewhere to sit and feel better about things,” says Tricia, who speaks fondly about every patch of the place. Sitting below big skies, this stretch of North Yorkshire is blessed with epic

landscapes, provoking thought and contemplation. It probably explains why an order of Cistercian monks chose to build an abbey a 45-minute drive west, close to Ripon and the Yorkshire Dales. Although a skeleton of its former glory, Fountains Abbey is still in remarkably good shape, making it England’s best-preserved example of a medieval monastery. Arching cloisters and partial stairwells invite investigation, while black marble columns soar into a space where a roof would once have been. Overrun by mosses and climbing plants, it easily earns a place in the film. The production team constructed a series of pools to transform it into an adventure playground for Mary and her friends Dickon and Colin, but it’s still a fantasyland even without the special effects. There’s no splashing around during my visit, although the 18th-century Studley Royal Water Garden neighbours the World Heritage Site, and some visual aquatic entertainment. Instead, I find a place to play at nearby Brimham Rocks, a series of balancing rocks and eroded boulders sculpted over 325 million years. Plenty of footholds and tunnels make structures a natural climbing frame for visitors of all ages, allowing imaginations to run free. It’s that sense of liberation earned by conquering the unknown that explains why The Secret Garden has charmed so many readers. In North Yorkshire’s wild spaces, it’s a story that continually unfolds.

40 YEARS OF BRITISH D E S I G N & M A N U FA C T U R I N G Newly Refurbished Tunbridge Wells Design Studio

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