Times of Tunbridge Wells 4th September 2019

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

VALUABLE VALUABLE WINES WINES GO GO UNDER UNDER

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O N IS ’T SU M E ISS O T F H SO E M SE OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS A PT G E A M Auction Wine Auction bids bids and and raffle raffle tickets tickets are are available available at at Hotel Hotel du du Vin Vin Wine lovers lovers in in Kent Kent are are being being given given the the chance chance to to win win ZI B N E on Crescent Crescent Road Road from from September September 11 to to 29, 29, where where the the valuable bottles bottles of of wine wine in in aa charity charity auction auction and and raffle raffle on valuable E R

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THE HAMMER HAMMER THE FOR FOR CHARITY CHARITY

being being held held by

by Hotel Hotel du du Vin, Vin, Tunbridge Tunbridge Wells Wells as as part part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Hotel du du Vin Vin brand. brand.

Hotel

bottles bottles of of wine wine will will be be available available to to view. view. Tickets Tickets cost cost £20. £20.

VALUABLE VALUABLE WINES GO UNDER WINES WINES GO GO UNDER UNDER THE HAMMER THE HAMMER FOR FOR CHARITY CHARITY

Wine Wine lovers in Kent are being given the chance to win Wine lovers lovers in in Kent Kent are are being being given given the the chance chance to to win win valuable bottles of wine in a charity auction and raffle valuable bottles bottles of of wine wine in in aa charity charity auction auction and and raffle raffle valuable being held by Hotel du Vin, Tunbridge Wells as part being being held held by

by Hotel Hotel du du Vin, Vin, Tunbridge Tunbridge Wells Wells as as part part of of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the of the the 25th 25th anniversary anniversary celebrations celebrations of of the the Hotel Hotel du du Vin Vin brand. brand.

Hotel du Vin brand.

Auction Auction bids and raffle tickets are available at Hotel du Vin Auction bids bids and and raffle raffle tickets tickets are are available available at at Hotel Hotel du du Vin Vin on Crescent Road from September 1 to 29, where the on Crescent Crescent Road Road from from September September 11 to to 29, 29, where where the the on bottles of wine will be available to view. Tickets cost £20. bottles bottles of of wine wine will will be be available available to to view. view. Tickets Tickets cost cost £20. £20.

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Businessmen refuse to help trace millions owed to savers

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Lack of co-operation is considered ‘deliberate’ and ‘co-ordinated’

By Richard Williams THE four men being investigated over the collapse of a Tunbridge Wells investment firm are refusing to help in finding tens of millions of pounds that have gone missing.

London Capital & Finance [LCF] fell into administration in January owing £237million to around 11,500 investors.

Many of the people who lost money in the scandal had ploughed their lifesavings into the firm’s bond scheme, which was offering interest rates as high as eight per cent.

Confronted LCF were meant to be supplying business loans with the money to a wide range of start-ups, but in reality most of it went to business interests connected to just four men.

The men include LCF founder and former Tunbridge Wells Conservative Party chairman, Simon Hume-Kendall, as well as Elten Barker from Hadlow Down, LCF director Andy Thomson, and equestrian businessman, Spencer Golding from Crowborough.

Earlier this year when confronted by the Times at his mews home in Tunbridge Wells Mr Hume-Kendal said: “The intention is to pay all the money back.”

Despite this assurance, administrators, Smith & Williamson, say Mr Hume-Kendall along with the four other men are hampering any progress in getting back the missing millions as they are refusing to co-operate.

They have revealed that Mr Hume-Kendall and his associate, Mr Barker, through a

business they owned together, London Group, borrowed £154.6million from LCF, £28.5million of which went missing.

FS Equestrian Services, a firm that listed Spencer Golding as its patron, also borrowed £12.3million from the company, and administrators are trying to

‘The men were asked to put money into an escrow account but none has so far materialised’ track down information on horses owned by the company as well as a helicopter formerly owned by Golding which administrators want to sell.

They say they asked all the men to hand over money in escrow but none has materialised.

The collapse of LCF is also being investigated by the Serious F r a u d Office who

have frozen some of the men’s assets.

They have also arrested and questioned five men in connection with the LCF collapse but all have been released pending further investigations.

Finbarr O’Connell from Smith & Williamson said: “[It] has been extraordinarily complex. To make matters worse, administrators have had almost no cooperation from the main parties involved with LCF, both the company and its borrowers, which the administrators consider to be deliberate and probably coordinated.

“These matters have significantly added to both time and cost.”

He added they have recovered around £200,000 worth of property from LCF and there could be more to come.

“What is encouraging, however, is the work is bearing fruit and is expected to result in further recoveries,” he said.

Some of the ‘highly suspicious’ transactions being looked at by the administrators include a £27million loan to companies developing land in Cape Verde, despite the business having no legal rights to any land.

In another deal, LCF loaned £840,000 to its parent company, London Financial Group, to buy a helicopter and sell it on to an American company for a ‘quick profit’ but adminis-

Continued on page 2 Simon Hume-Kendall and his wife Helen who live in Tunbridge Wells. He told the Times earlier this year he intended ‘to pay all the money back.’

30/08/2019 30/08/2019 10:47 10:47

Alliance plans to target Lib Dems and the Greens at next elections

30/08/2019 10:47 30/08/2019 30/08/2019 10:47 10:47

STRATEGIST Robert Chris

By Jonathan Banks THE Alliance party that swept aside the Tory candidates in the last borough council elections are now planning to target the Lib Dems and the Greens, the Times can disclose.

The party was created with the sole objective of stopping the £108million theatre and civic complex on the edge of Calverley Grounds.

As reported in last week’s Times, members of the Alliance have also been suspended from the community social media network, Nextdoor, for ‘soapboxing’ against the theatre.

Warned Through an aggressive social media campaign that has attacked those in favour of the project, the Alliance managed to unseat five Conservatives during the local elections and now has six seats on the Council.

One of the driving forces behind the strategy for the election in May was Robert Chris who is now party chairman. He and other leaders live next door to the proposed site.

Alliance Cllr Nick Pope has already publicly warned Tory members who do not vote against

Continued on page 2

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DELAYS AHEAD Work on the town’s new cultural hub the Amelia Scott is pushed back p6 SKY’S THE LIMIT Town forum challenges Gatwick’s plans for an extra 100,000 flights p12

PLASTIC’S NOT FANTASTIC Popular children’s author helps promote environmental message to local pupils p19 WE’LL DRINK TO THAT! How you can be part of Hotel du Vin’s auction of the world’s best wines p52

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LCF Collapse: Continued from page 1 trators say the US business involved had only wanted to charter the aircraft, not buy it.

One of the largest borrowers of LCF money was London Oil & Gas [LOG], which was controlled by Mr Hume-Kendall and Mr Barker.

LOG owes £122million but collapsed shortly after LCF did with less than £700 in its bank account.

Through the company, more than £80million was transferred to a number of other businesses.

One these companies, Independent Oil and Gas, remains solvent and administrators are hopeful it will pay back its LCF loan.

CARER LOST LIFE SAVINGS Amanda Cunningham [pictured], invested £22,500 in LCF. The 50-year-old is a full-time carer for her son, Jack, who has autism.

“The money was my lifesavings. It was money to help Jack who will need care for the rest of his life,” she told the Times in May. She said the collapse of LCF has been ‘devastating’.

“It has left me in a very difficult position. I’m in exceptional hardship. That money was all I had,” she said.

“They are no better than scammers. They are preying on the vulnerable. They are the scourge of the Earth.

“I lay awake at night worrying about how Jack is going to cope in the future and all the while people like Simon Hume-Kendall are living in the lap of luxury.

I bet he has never had to endure financial hardship. I don’t know how Simon HumeKendall sleeps at night. I want him to pay everything back. All of it. I think he is ruthless.”

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

THE MONEY TRAIL – HOW £237MILLION TRICKLED AWAY

London Capital & Finance PLC (in administration)

£15.7m

£5.1m

LPE Support Limited

£7.3m

£4.8m

Cape Verde Support Limited

£20.9m

£124m

CV Resorts Limited

£38.6m Independent Oil & Gas PLC

(in administration)

P/F Atlantic Petroleum

LPE Enterprises Limited

Colina Property Holdings Limited

£840k

FS Equestrian Services Limited

£23.2m

£16.2m

Colina Support Limited

£12.2m

London Oil & Gas Ltd

£5.4m

£5.7m

Costa Property Holdings Limited

Costa Support Limited

Waterside Support Limited

Waterside Villages Limited

£18.5m

£6.6m

London Financial Group Limited

£16.6m London Power & Technology Limited

£8.3m

The chart shows how the money lent to London Capital & Finance [LCF] was gradually filtered through various companies and highlights the complex challenges facing the administrators.

Intelligent Technology investment Limited (in liquidation)

£3m Asset Mapping Limited (in liquidation)

RETIRED ENGINEER LOSES £186,000 Paul Hammer, a 69-year-old retired engineer, decided to invest in LCF after he had done, what he thought, was enough due diligence into the company.

“I checked on the health of the company with auditors Price Waterhouse Cooper,” he told the Times earlier this year.

He was assured by the auditors as to the

financial health of LCF, so said he ploughed £186,000 into the mini-bonds scheme, money that was meant for his retirement.

He lost all of it following the collapse of London Capital & Finance.

“I just want answers,” he said.

“It makes me feel physically sick to think what they have got away with.”

‘Lib Dems become our main electoral target’ Continued from page 1 the Calverley Square development that they will lose their seats at next year’s May elections.

Cllr Pope was originally in favour of Calverley Square.

Robert Chris has been criticised for ‘hijacking’ a Full Council meeting when Calverley Square was discussed.

He also spoke at the CPO inquiry held by the Planning Inspectorate into the project earlier this year.

During the three-week CPO hearing, Mr Chris spent hours cross-examining Council witnesses and presented hundreds of pages of reports he had written himself condemning the Council and its proposed scheme.

All of his arguments were thrown out by the Planning Inspector, Graham Dudley, who gave the development a clean bill of health and sided with the Council over its economic impact assessments of the project.

Mr Chris was also accused of being a ‘misogynist’ by one councillor at a public meeting because of his behaviour.

This accusation resulted in Mr Chris appealing to the ombudsman, who threw out his complaint and sided with his female accuser.

Today, the Times can reveal that Robert Chris is planning to target the Lib Dems and Greens at the next Local Election, scheduled for May, in a bid to seize power of the Council.

Currently the chamber consists of 28 Conservative councillors, nine Lib Dems, four

Labour, one independent, and six Alliance councillors.

Robert Chris sets out the party’s strategy in a briefing sent to other members and seen by this newspaper.

In it he explains the importance of including mentions of climate change in their public statements to ‘steal a march on the Lib Dems and Greens’.

Misogynist He said: “My initial analysis strongly indicates that the Tories’ share of the votes cast varied little across the wards. But the Lib Dems scored well only in those wards we didn’t fight.”

He continued: “This suggests that next year, if voting follows a similar pattern, disaffected Tories will vote for us where we have a candidate and for the Lib Dems where we don’t.”

He went on: “In effect, the Lib Dems become our main electoral target.”

He also admitted to his members that the decision for Calverley Square ‘rests with the Council’.

He said: “The Council doesn’t have to produce any evidence to change the situation. It has planning consent. It has a confirmed CPO. It can just get on and do it, should it not choose to stop.”

Next May, another 12 seats are up for election at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

If more than four Conservative councillors are unseated, it could see them lose control of the Council in Tunbridge Wells for the first time since 1998 when the Liberal Democrats were last in charge.

Any coalition could see Alliance members having a controlling vote at Full Council meetings or a seat on the decision making Cabinet.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Olivia and Oliver are area’s top baby names

A MAN was rushed to hospital on Friday after being hit by a car in Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells.

Police say he was struck by a passing vehicle around 7am on August 30, near to the notorious Carr’s Corner roundabout, scene of a number of accidents in the town.

A spokesman for Kent Police said they were called to the accident at 7:20am after reports the man had complained of back pain.

The South East Coast Ambulance transported the man to Tunbridge Wells Hospital where his condition was not thought to be life-threatening.

By Antonia McLennan THE main post office in Tunbridge Wells has been sold off to a franchise company, leaving 11 members of staff worried about their futures.

The Five Ways Post Office is one of a number of branches switched to franchise deals in recent years.

Post Office Ltd, which remains state-owned since it split from the now privatised Royal Mail in 2013, has come in for heavy criticism following the moves.

Unions have called it a ‘privatisation agenda’ with the CWU [Communication Workers Union] JOBS IN QUESTION? saying franchised companies often pay workers Five Ways Post Office has been franchised less than workers in state-owned branches.

Although the site itself in Tunbridge Wells will maintained, he added: “I am not happy and no remain owned by the Post Office, the business successfully operated by independent one I have spoken to is. has been bought by independent franchising franchisees.”

“Of course we are all concerned about what partner, ZCO, which takes over in November.

He added: “While the decision to proceed will happens next especially as to whether they will ZCO run a number of other main Wednesday branchAugust post28 | 2019 have already been made, we will welcome All the news that matters Local, National and International maintain the same staffing levels. The reality is offices up and down the country. suggestions about specific aspects of the change that Royal Mail is a commercial entity now and Head of the ‘Directly Managed Network’ for the such as access arrangements and the internal OF TONBRIDGE will do what it views as in its commercial Post Office, Steve Blampied, said that the layout.” interests.” change was ‘the best way to secure Post Office Among the changes planned for the branch is A spokesperson for Post Office said employees services at this location’. the extension of opening hours from 9am to will be kept ‘fully informed’ of any staffing In a letter to staff and customers of the Five 5.30pm on Monday to Saturday, making the Ways branch he said that the decision stemmed services newly available on Saturday afternoons. changes, saying: “Regular visitors to the Five Ways branch will no doubt know the branch from the ‘unprecedented changes on our high In addition to this, the layout will include low team as friends and want to know they are being streets and the challenges facing many retailers’. level service counters, PIN pads and hearing supported through these changes. We care about He said: “The needs of our customers are loops, as well as two self-service kiosks. our people and we have kept the team fully evolving too. Our priority is to provide secure However, local councillors say staff at the informed of their options.” and commercially sustainable services in all branch are naturally worried about their future.

Armed police He added that employees had rights over the communities.

James Rands, Liberal Democrat councillor for in town centre transfer of their employment, and opportunities “The vast majority of our 11,500 Post Office Culverden, said while the franchise operators searching for for redeployment or voluntary settlement.

Branches, large and small, are already have assured him that current services will be

Times

Disruptive gas works halted PROPOSED gas works on Tonbridge High Street have been halted.

As reported in last week’s Times of Tonbridge, the works were scheduled to last 12 weeks – into the Christmas shopping period – and would have affected traders and parents on the school run.

But Kent County Council has confirmed that they have ordered the works, which were due to start on September 9, to be stopped due to the ‘substantial failure to engage in communication’ from the company behind the scheme, SGN. Tom Tugendhat, MP for Tonbridge & Malling welcomed the decision to revoke SGN’s permit.

He said “The High Street has just this week re-opened following works to the Bus Stop by Café Nero, so closing it again next week for over two months was always going to cause chaos.

“I’m grateful to all our local councillors for all

r

Pedestrian hit by car

Staff concerns raised after main post office is sold off in franchising deal

EEape

THREE people have been arrested after a fight broke out at Tonbridge station on Monday [September 2].

Police were called to the station on Quarry Hill Road shortly before 4.30pm where five people were attacked in the brawl, although no serious injuries occurred.

British Transport Police have reported that a 53-year-old man and two 22-year-old men were detained on suspicion of assault following the incident.

The suspects, from the Herne Bay and Upchurch areas, have been released while enquiries continue.

3

ur Yo

Railway station fight

NEWS

FRwsp Ne

THE most popular names chosen by new parents in Tunbridge Wells are Oliver and Olivia.

The two baby names are also the most preferred new Christian names chosen by parents nationally. The second most common name for new born boys in England and Wales is George, while Amelia is the second most preferred girls’ name.

According to ONS [Office for National Statistics] data for 2018, eleven girls were named Olivia in the borough of Tunbridge Wells, and 18 boys were named Oliver.

In Tonbridge & Malling, Arthur was the most popular boys’ name, with 21 parents choosing to name their baby boys it.

Emily also tied with Olivia in Tonbridge & Malling to be the most popular girls’ name.

Other common names chosen by new parents nationally include George [second on the list], Harry [third] and Noah [fourth].

Ava was the third most common girls’ name and Isla the fourth.

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

teenager ‘with imitation gun’ postpone the works, which they say residents ARMED officers were seen at

various locations around the centre were not even aware were happening. of town last week.

Police weresaid: searching“Tonbridge’s for a Nicolas Heslop, economic teenage boy who was charged with of an imitation regenerationpossession relies on thehandgun town being accessible. their work to get to this stage.” and robbery.

Officers werea initially called to of weeks’ notice was just couple Mr Tugendhat, along with Leader of Tonbridge & Closing it with Golden Green on Wednesday August 21 at 5pm following a report not acceptable.

Malling Borough Council, Nicolas Heslop, and of a robbery in the village near “It is not aTonbridge. suitable way to support our High Tonbridge’s Kent County Councillors, Richard The youth threatened two others ATTRACTIVE SETTING: Tonbridge School and the town’s athletics club will host a star-studded ‘Twilight Invitational’ track and with the weapon.

Street and local businesses and particularly in Long and Michael Payne all asked SGN to field meeting on Friday [August 30] – the first such event for more than three decades. Image by Pawel Bachorski. Turn to page 2 Neither was seriously injured but one is reported to have had his the build-up to the crucial Christmas watch stolen.

The suspect and victims are shopping believed to be known toperiod each other. for retailers, together with the prospect of a Arrest delay inattended completing the works on An armed patrol the Tom Tugendhat, MP for Tonbridge & traffic along the A227 Shipbourne Road, scene and carried out inquiries to

By Andy Tong the Festival in late Malling, has joined with the Leader of down The Ridgeway and onto the A26 locate the Christmas boy, but no arrests were andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk the borough council, Nicolas Heslop, Hadlow Road. made at the time.

November. and the town’s two Kent County However, this route is now under Searches later that day took the Councillors, Richard Long and Michael review after the plan to use The armed unit and a heavy police ROADWORKS that are scheduled to last Payne, in urging SGN to carry out the Ridgeway was criticised as unworkable. presence Tonbridge railway 12 weeks – into the Christmas shopping “I toremain concerned about the works at a later date. station, the High Street and other period – should be postponed to a more Mr Tugendhat points out that the central locations. convenient date, according to the local proposed diversion route and the ‘The timing provides no junction where The Ridgeway joins the The following day detectives MP and the Leader of Tonbridge & respite from High Street A26 is narrow and on a steep incline, arrested a 17-year-old boy from Malling Borough Council. impact it would have had on those with a traffic island for pedestrians London.

There has also been criticism of the works for residents’ which prevents anything larger than a plan from the town’s two representatives Heresidents was charged with two I represent along The car from turning. on Kent County Council [KCC] over the robberies, three attempted He adds that the works have not been The closure will have a heavy impact gas distribution company SGN’s failure robberies, robbery with an Ridgeway and neighbouring roads. on the school run as the new term starts. widely publicised with residents, to give sufficient notice of its intentions. imitation handgun and possession schools, bus operators and businesses, The critics claim it will affect retailers The High Street will be closed outside of counterfeit currency.

“That’s why I’m pleased that our WARNING with only a few councillors first made in the run-up to the festive season too.

Tonbridge School northbound between The teenager was remanded in aware on August 19.

It comes after the High Street was Bordyke and Portman Park from custody and was later bailed by requests have been listened to.”

Last week’s of“I’m Tonbridge MrTimes Tugendhat said: concerned at closed to southbound traffic for at least Monday September 9 until November 29 Medway Magistrates’ Court to

Three months of roadworks cause big problem for schools and shops

while SGN replaces a gas main.

This will result in a diversion taking

four weeks this month while a new bus stop was installed.

Continued on page 2

appear at Medway Youth Court yesterday [August 27].

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Government hands council just 15 pence per person to deal with a no-deal Brexit

By Richard Williams TUNBRIDGE WELLS has been given a pot of money to help the borough cope if Britain leaves the EU without a deal – and it amounts to just 15 pence per person.

All local authorities in Kent have been given a share of an additional £2.6million by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government ‘in recognition of the county being home to a number of the significant and busiest ports in the area’.

Kent County Council are to get £1million of the money, with £1.6million distributed to the borough and district councils in the county, including Tunbridge Wells – which will get £17,500.

Contingency The ministry says allocations are ‘based on a number of factors including the expected impact on the local area, the amount of EU goods received by port areas into the country and the areas wider importance to UK trade network’.

On announcing the funds, Minister in charge of local councils, Robert Jenrick, said: “We recognise Kent is playing a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition for its businesses and residents after we leave the EU in October, and that’s why we’re giving over £2.6 million of additional funding to support the county to boost its Brexit preparations.

“We have stepped up our preparedness significantly in recent weeks, including by asking every council to appoint a Brexit Lead Officer. Now we are releasing an additional £9million of additional funding today to help local areas get ready for Brexit, whatever the circumstances.”

MP FACES DESELECTION OVER BREXIT

COUNCIL LEADER Alan McDermott

Mr Jenrick said the recent funding now meant local councils across the UK have received a total of £77m to ‘prepare for our departure’ from the EU. However, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council said the latest money amounts to just 15 pence per person, or £4 for each business in the borough.

Opposition Liberal Democrat leader at the Council, Ben Chapelard said the money was a ‘joke’.

He said: “The contingency money is completely inadequate to prevent the nightmare no-deal scenario predicted for Kent.

“If the situation wasn’t so serious, people would be forgiven for thinking Mr Johnson was having a joke at the expense of people in Kent.”

Council Leader Alan McDermott said: “The further funding Government announced for councils to get Brexit-ready means Tunbridge Wells Borough Council will receive £17,500 – as we’ve only just been told about this, no decision about how it will be spent has been taken.

“Council staff are working closely with Kent Resilience Team, other councils across Kent and partners to understand and reduce the impact of Brexit on the borough and ensure the smooth running of services.”

UNDER FIRE A petition to oust Greg Clark has been circulated LOCAL Conservative Party members have started a petition to get Tunbridge Wells MP, Greg Clark, deselected because of his stance on leaving the EU. A petition has circulated among local Conservatives, orchestrated by Arron Banks, co-founder of the Leave.EU and former donor to Nigel Farage’s EU referendum campaign.

Mr Banks took to Twitter yesterday [Tuesday] and told his followers: “I understand our campaign to deselect Greg Clark has hit 54 votes today, with 50 required to call the meeting. I doubt he will be the Conservative candidate at the election. Others now pending, locally Tory members taking control.”

If the petition is handed into local Association officials, Mr Clark, who has been MP for Tunbridge Wells since 2005, will face a vote of confidence, which could lead to his deselection.

Mr Clark’s office has refused to comment on the petition, but the MP has criticised PM Boris Johnson’s act of suspending Parliament in order to push a no-deal Brexit through on October 31.

He said: “Parliament should be sitting more, not less, during the crucial weeks ahead including during the conference recess.

“A Queen’s Speech, with a new domestic programme, is welcome but it should not be used to curtail scrutiny by Parliament.”

A thousand people fined for dropping cigarette ends MORE than 1,100 people were fined by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] for dropping cigarette ends on the street last year.

In Tonbridge & Malling fewer than 50 people were fined.

According to figures from a Freedom of Information [FOI] request by e-cigarette company, Vapourcore, 29,379 fines were issued in 2018 by 180 councils in England and Wales.

In Tunbridge Wells 1,103 people were handed fixed penalty notices [FPN] by enforcement officers in 2018, but just 45 in Tonbridge & Malling.

Littering with cigarette end is a criminal offence and can land smokers in court facing a maximum £1,000 fine.

However, most local authorities deal with the issue by way of FPNs. These on-the-spot fines carry a maximum penalty of £150 but some local

The Council now say they will be doing their own enforcement for litter, using a number of parking enforcement officers who have been granted additional powers to fine people for littering.

A spokesperson for TWBC said the new team will be in addition to the existing street scene enforcement officers.

She added: “Unlike the street scene

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Contact our commercial team to see how we can “The Times local newspaper has proven, at a time when regional newspapers are closing, people in our town are help promote your business 01892 779580 avid readers of local news” – MP Greg Clark

“The Times shines a spotlight on local businesses and what

officers who have wider powers the new team will focus on littering and dog fouling.

“They will be clearly identifiable and their uniform will be marked with the Council logo and Littering Enforcement.

“The officers will have body-worn video cameras which they will use during their interactions with people suspected of littering.”

GREG CLARK MP

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authorities offer discounts for early payments. TWBC does not.

Last year TWBC employed litter enforcement contractors Kingdom to hand out fines for dropping litter, including cigarette ends.

The contract came to an end in April, with Kingdom, who earned 50 per cent of money paid in FPNs, choosing not to continue operation in the town as it was not ‘economically viable’.

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Funeral held for Parkrun stalwart THE funeral took place on Monday for one of the people that has made the highly popular Royal Tunbridge Wells [RTW] Parkrun so successful.

Steve Barnfield, a committed volunteer of the Parkrun community, passed away following a long battle with cancer.

The 66-year-old runner and father of two had been involved in the event, which has seen nearly 8,000 people take part in more than 260 runs, since it started in 2014.

He had also run the London Marathon twice and was an enthusiastic bridge player and member of the English Bridge Union.

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

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5

Labour presses for competition as way to solve theatre impasse

Battled Joe Watts, who until recently volunteered as event director for the RTW Parkrun, paid tribute to his running friend and colleague.

He said: “I met Steve when he volunteered at the test event for the Royal Tunbridge Wells Parkrun, and from that day forward until his untimely passing Steve was ever-present and formed part of the core volunteer team, volunteering on a total number of 219 occasions.

“He would often impress me with his knowledge of the year-on-year event attendance growth, and he was always keen to process and analyse the results – a role that he conducted on over 100 occasions, most recently in July 2019.”

Among those paying their respects after hearing the news of Mr Barnfield’s death was the borough’s MP, Greg Clark.

He said: “Such sad news. Steve was a real champion volunteer – expert, enthusiastic and encouraging to everyone in rain and shine. He will be greatly missed by us all.”

Steve was cremated at the Kent & Sussex Crematorium and a wake was held for family and friends afterwards at The Spa Hotel.

Mr Barnfield is survived by his two children, David and Laura, and his wife Frances.

ON YOUR MARKS Parkrun volunteer Steve Barnfield was always at the ready

NO LONGER FIT FOR PURPOSE The current civic complex

By Richard Williams THE Tunbridge Wells Labour group of councillors has proposed an alternative solution to the council’s Calverley Square development.

The four Labour councillors sitting on the borough council have suggested a rerun of the original architectural competition that led to the building of the art deco Town Hall, police station and Assembly Hall Theatre in 1939.

The competition was run in 1934, when architects Percy Thomas and Ernest Prestwich’s winning design was chosen for the Civic Way complex.

This time, Labour say the competition should ask architects to ‘repurpose, redevelop and refurbish’ the existing buildings to improve the Assembly Hall Theatre and upgrade the Town Hall to make it suitable for the future.

Sherwood councillor Hugo Pound – the group’s spokesperson on the Calverley Square development – said they have brought up the idea at the cross-party meetings being chaired by Town Forum Chairman Adrian Berendt.

The proposed Calverley Square, which the Times revealed last week has gone over-budget from £90million to £108million, is currently on hold while alternatives are discussed.

Councillors will decide whether to go ahead or shelve the development at the next Full Council meeting on September 25.

Cllr Pound said their alternative scheme could have cross-

party support from councillors opposed to building on the edge of Calverley Grounds.

He told the Times: “The Royal Institute of British Architects [RIBA] already have a process in place to undertake such projects.

‘Councillors will decide whether to go ahead or shelve the development at the next Full Council meeting on September 25’ “We think it will cost around £100,000 to run the competition, which will challenge architects to repurpose, redevelop and refurbish the current Town Hall, Assembly Hall Theatre and any other building we may have by then – such as the police station.”

The process would see architects compete for the tender to revamp the Civic Way site, and could lead to four or five ‘modern and exciting’ designs.

He said it was ‘clear’ there was a need for office space in Tunbridge Wells, and the existing theatre did need improvements, but building on the edge of Calverley Grounds ‘was not the way to go’.

“The Assembly Hall Theatre probably won’t become a 1,200 seat Cllr Hugo theatre like Calverley Pound

Square, but it may have other facilities that Calverley Square doesn’t, such as a dance studio,” said Cllr Pound.

Labour believed repurposing the existing buildings will cost around ‘£40million’ – but Cllr Pound admitted it would not have the same asset value as Calverley Square when completed.

The scheme would also leave the town without the Assembly Hall for a couple of years while renovation work was being undertaken, and there would have to be a temporary home found for the council if the Town Hall is to be revamped.

“But we will be left with a heritage building that we own and is situated right in the centre of the town linked to the Amelia Scott cultural hub with good links to public transport,” insisted Cllr Pound.

But he did not rule out any building on Calverley Grounds: “The Great Hall car park remains a council asset on Calverley Grounds, but a new use for it may not encroach as much on the park as Calverley Square does.”

Conservative councillor David Scott, the Cabinet member in charge of Calverley Square, said the idea would be considered along with any other alternatives presented.

But he added: “Before any change in direction towards a proposal that would close our Assembly Hall Theatre for several years and disrupt our community performance groups, we need to be absolutely sure of the relative costs and benefits.

“Councillors will have the opportunity at the end of September to make a decision, based on sound information, between staying the course or changing direction.”

6

NEWS

Local News

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Amelia Scott centre delayed as building work runs into trouble GREAT SCOTT Artist’s impression of the cultural and learning hub

By Richard Williams WORK on the new cultural and learning hub that is to replace the current museum and library in Tunbridge Wells has been delayed.

The £13.2million Amelia Scott cultural centre is meant to open in the summer of 2021, but this may now have to be pushed back as redevelopment of the existing site has not yet started.

The Council-led project, which has the backing of Kent County Council [KCC] and £4million in funding from the National Lottery, is to be a combined library, museum, tourist information centre and art gallery, as well as hosting Gateway services.

Work to convert the existing museum and

library into the Amelia Scott was due to begin this summer, but the Council now say this has not yet happened.

“This project is a priority for both KCC and TWBC and we will update people as soon as we have the start date confirmed.”

A spokesperson for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] said: “We had hoped that building work would be underway this summer, but this is not expected to happen now.”

She continued: “This project is a priority for both KCC and TWBC and we will update people as soon as we have the start date confirmed.”

It is understood the building’s listed status has meant the conversion into the Amelia Scott has not been as easy as contractor’s first thought.

When building work finally does begin, all library services will be moved to Royal Victoria Place where KCC has created a temporary facility within the shopping centre, but until work is due to begin, the library will remain open in its current location.

A spokesman for KCC said: “The library in Royal Tunbridge Wells will remain in its existing premises while details of the building work for the Amelia Scott are finalised with the appointed contractor. Because the building work centres on a listed building, it is right that we take time to get it right.

“The library is due to move into a temporary location in Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre for the duration of the building work.

“We are keen to keep members of the public as informed as possible, and as soon as a move date is confirmed we will inform library users.”

He added that there was no point in moving until building work was ready to begin as that would mean the library would be in a temporary location for longer than necessary.

It has not been an easy start for the development, which caused controversy earlier this year when the Council had to do a U-turn over the naming of the cultural centre.

It had initially dropped the surname of the town’s suffragist heroine and named the centre just ‘Amelia’ but backtracked after being accused of ‘trivialising’ and ‘infantilising’ women.

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

KCC pump an extra £60million into vital road improvements KENT COUNTY COUNCIL [KCC] has invested an extra £60million into maintaining the county’s highways.

KCC has published its two-year plan of maintenance works, doubling investment into road maintenance, trebling footway maintenance and implementing a crash barrier upgrade programme on main roads.

KCC cabinet member for highways Mike Whiting said: “This investment shows our commitment to residents, businesses and visitors, ensuring we have a highway network that is fit for purpose.

“Our plans will see road surfacing works on many of our main roads, including parts of the A2, A26 and A28.

“The plan also covers work from road renewal, drainage improvements, crash barrier renewal, grass cutting and footpath repairs.”

KCC is responsible for looking after and maintaining all public roads in Kent, equating to around 5,000 miles.

Highways England is responsible for motorways and major roads such as the M20, M2, A21, A2, A249 and A20.

Later this year, KCC will be extending its forward plan of works to five years to give Kent people more certainty of what maintenance is planned.

Roadworks extended MOUNT PLEASANT in Tunbridge Wells is to remain closed until the end of the month.

The road outside the Town Hall was due to reopen on September 1 but has been put back until September 29.

A spokesperson for the Council said the extension was due to ‘problems with a utilities trench’.

The works are part of a £1.3million scheme to make the area more pedestrian friendly.

8

BUSINESS

Local News

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Rent reduction requests that indicate Clarks is in trouble FEELING THE PINCH Clarks in Calverley Road precinct

By Richard Williams SHOE giant Clarks could be in trouble, according to reports which suggest the retailer has been asking landlords for rent discounts.

Clarks, which has a branch in Calverley Road, is the latest in a long line of high street retailers to approach landlords for discounts.

According to a Sunday Times report, a period of weak trading has left the chain, which has been operating in British high streets since 1825, asking for 30 per cent discount on its rents in return for extensions to leases.

According to its most recent full year report for the period ending February 3 2018, operating profit at the shoe chain, which has around 113 stores across the UK, plunged by 29 per cent to £29.3million, while pre-tax profits came in at just £19.7million.

Unlike many struggling retailers, Clarks is repor ted to be too profitable to be a candidate for a CVA [Company Voluntary Arrangement] – the formal insolvency procedure that allows a company with debt problems to reach voluntary agreements with debtors.

A Clarks spokesperson said: “Since early 2017, when Clarks announced that it would be conducting a full review and modernisation of the company’s property portfolio, we have been constantly reviewing our store estate to ensure that all stores are the right size and located in the right places to enable us to provide the right offering for customers.

“As a key brand on many of the UK’s high streets, we are committed to retaining our presence and ensuring our stores continue to play a critical role in delivering a great experience for our customers.”

A boost in firm’s number of chartered accountants AN ACCOUNTANCY firm with an office in Goudhurst has increased its number of qualified chartered accountants thanks to three team members gaining the internationally recognised qualifications.

Joe Cleary, Michael O’Brien and Sam Wing from Charter Tax have all passed their final exams to become ICAEW [Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales] Chartered Accountants.

The newly qualified team members take the number of chartered accountants at Charter Tax to 11, in addition to their seven qualified

tax professionals.

Some of the newly qualified accountants have been with the firm since leaving school in 2012.

“We are all really proud that Joe, Michael and Sam’s hard work has paid off, and are excited to have three additional fully-qualified accountants within our team,” said Charlie Goss, Client Manager at the firm.

“To combine a career with studying takes a huge amount of dedication, but I think they’d all agree that the experience they gain here on a daily basis has been helpful in their studies.”

CHARTING SUCCESS Michael O’Brien, Sam Wing and Joe Cleary She continued: “We are really proud of the experience we now have under our roof at Charter Tax, and are looking forward to two more members of our team also becoming qualified in the not too distant future.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Jobs and training fair

Optician screen warning

A JOBS and training fair is taking place tomorrow [Thursday] aimed at jobseekers in the area who want more information about local career opportunities.

The West Kent Jobs & Training Fair takes place at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells between 10am and 2pm.

The event, organised in collaboration with the West Kent Partnership and Jobcentre Plus, is free for all jobseekers to attend, and provides workshops to assist in their search.

For those recruiting, taking up a table is free and is open to businesses looking to recruit five or more staff members.

As the fair tends to be popular, it has generated an open space for advertising and interactive promotion for local employers.

For more information please email: mark.llyod@dwp.gov.uk

A TUNBRIDGE WELLS optician is calling on parents to test their children’s eyes before they go back to school, after research shows a rise in the number of teens needing glasses.

Lorraine Godley, Manager of the Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care branch on Mount Pleasant, said a study by the national firm found 35 per cent of 13 to 16 year olds need glasses, compared with just 20 per cent in 2012.

She said: “There is concern that there may be a link between increased screen time and poorer vision and this needs more investigation. What we do know is that children should have regular eye tests to monitor their eye health.”

She said that Scrivens’ research found that 13 to 16 year olds typically spend 26 hours a week looking at their mobiles and tablets, watching TV and playing video games.

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NEWS

Community News

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New source of funding rescues YMCA training ‘at last minute’

THE West Kent branch of the YMCA has said its ‘prayers have been answered’ after several of its skills training workshops in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge were saved from closure.

The Christian organisation, which works with young people who are dealing with major issues such as homelessness and mental health, said it had ‘reluctantly planned to close both our Horizon Project centres due to lack of funding’.

It had already gone through a consultation process with its clients, their schools, families and referral agencies – as well as the staff who were under theat.

But ‘at the very last minute’ the YMCA was able to secure essential new funding to enable it to deliver training and education for learners with Special Educational Needs.

He explained how the last-minute rescue had come about, saying: “The change is that Kent County Council’s SEN [Special Educational Needs] agreed to a level of firm funding.

“This gives us certainty that they will pay us on a monthly basis for a set number of places.”

He added: “We are so grateful for this answer to a prayer for new funding and to all those we work in partnership with, and our amazing teams of staff and volunteers who pull together to deliver life-changing work.

“Every year we see miracles when young people, who have often struggled in schools, gain skills and confidence to go on to be successful in college, apprenticeships or work.

“We hope the new courses will empower more young people to build their future.”

Existing programmes cover construction or other practical skills, with English, maths and customer service.

‘The charity will be taking on between eight and 12 new high needs learners’

LIFE-CHANGING The Horizon Project Centre in Tonbridge

By Andy Tong

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

And the YMCA now plans to offer up to five more courses for 16 to 19 year olds.

The sites that have been rescued include the Horizon Project Centre, a construction skills workshop in Shipbourne Road, Tonbridge.

Also spared in Tonbridge is YMCA Recycle, a bike repair workshop at the YMCA Store in Vale Rise.

In Tunbridge Wells, the Furniture Store and furniture upcycling workshop in Goods Station Road will also remain open.

Rob Marsh, YMCA West Kent’s Chief Executive, told the Times: “Funding dried up because there are very few contracts or certainty of funding.

“Learners were referred to us to receive statutory education but often it took two terms before we’d get a funding approval.

“Sometimes we were told that no funding was available – even though the learner had come to us every week.”

The planned new subjects include health and social care, agriculture and horticulture, childcare, health and fitness, and professional services such as business administration.

The charity will be taking on between eight and 12 new high needs learners and recruiting extra learning support assistants.

However, there have been two casualties among the YMCA’s services. The TN2 Multi-Skills workshop in Sherwood, Tunbridge Wells, and the Empowerment programme at Tower House in Tonbridge have been forced to shut down.

Mr Marsh said of the TN2 closure: “Fewer young people will be helped to find their way into work or college for now.

“This centre and the dedicated staff and volunteers have seen some amazing achievements over many years, and this will be greatly missed across West Kent.”

WARM GLOW Strollers will carry lanterns

Hospice in the Weald launches Starlight Stroll THE Hospice in the Weald is introducing a new memory event, Starlight Stroll, next month.

The six-mile walk on Saturday October 19 will give participants an opportunity to remember their loved ones and raise funds for the charity.

Starting from the hospice in Pembury at 6pm, supporters will carry lanterns creating a trail of light through Dunorlan Park.

On their return, they will lay their lanterns down to light up the Labyrinth in the hospice’s garden.

Kelly Heaton-Ralph, the hospice’s Relationship Fundraising Manager, said: “We are so pleased to be able to hold an event starting and finishing at the hospice. It’s a really special place for many of our supporters.”

Leeanne Smith from Paddock Wood will take part in memory of her mother Anne Marie.

She explained: “The hospice was a safe haven for mum. As a family, we cannot thank the hospice enough for everything they have done, and continue to do for us.

“We need to raise as much money as we can to ensure they are able to continue to provide their service to other families in need.”

For more information, call 01892 820533 or visit hospiceintheweald.org.uk

Upcoming Events At The McIndoe Centre We will be hosting a number of FREE consultant-led events at The McIndoe Centre in September.

Cosmetic Surgery Mini 1-1 Consultations

Is A 'Tummy Tuck' Right For You? - Meet The Surgeon

On September 12th, Consultant Plastic Surgeons Mr Oliver Harley and Mr Siva Kumar will be offering free cosmetic surgery mini 1-1consultations.

On September 25th, Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Baljit Dheansa will be speaking at a free information evening.

a thinking about surgery but If you are need some expert advice, book a no-obligation consultation with one of our fully accredited specialists.

a considering a tummy tuck If you are and would like more information on the procedure, come along and get an in-depth presentation from a specialist with over 20 years’ experience.

Book online now at themcindoecentre.co.uk or call 01342 488058.

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Community News

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Cyclists head to Corfu in bid to raise £150k for Alzheimer’s UK WHEELY LONG WAY (L-R) Julian Van Kan, Richard Meddings, Andrew Ross and Julian Brown

A QUARTET of dedicated cyclists are hoping to raise £150,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK by riding from The Bell in Ticehurst to Corfu.

The money they raise will buy a state-of-theart brain scanner for pioneering research into dementia at the University of Cambridge. They have already collected more than £100,000, which was their original target.

The team, comprising Andrew Ross, who lives in the village, Julian Brown of Hartfield, Richard Meddings of Cranbrook and Julian Van Kan from Stonegate, leave the pub on Sunday [September 8].

They will travel 1,900km through six countries and the Alps to reach the island in the Ionian Sea, and will be joined along the route by 13 others who will undertake various legs.

The journey, which is being undertaken during World Alzheimer’s Month, is expected to take 20 days – previously none of the four have cycled for more than four days at a stretch.

“All of us are way out of our comfort zones,” said Andrew. “Most of us are too old, not yet fit enough – and very frightened!”

Thanks to financial support from the FTSE100 fund management company Schroders, where Andrew is a Vice-Chair, all proceeds will go to the charity.

Hannibal The challenge is also being supported by two other local businesses, Wildside Cycles, who are providing spare parts and nutrition, and Bikecation, who are organising the trip.

Richard said: “We all have different reasons for doing this trip, but they mostly centre around a late mid-life crisis (most of us are either side of 60 years old), a desire to get fit and to take on a real challenge.

“By doing something seriously tough, we hope

that we can make a difference and raise a significant sum for a great charity.

“This is going to be very difficult, but Hannibal took elephants over the Alps so there is hope.”

Andrew added: “Most of the riders have firsthand experience of Alzheimer’s in their family and know it is one of the most significant medical problems of our time.

“It is debilitating for the person and for the families who have to cope with the mental decline of a loved one.

“In spite of this, research into a condition about which we still understand little is very underfunded.

“Even professional cyclists rarely ride this far in one go. We’ll be climbing almost 14,000 metres. That’s the equivalent of going up Mount

Everest, back down and halfway up again.”

Tim Parry, Director of Communications at the charity, said: “Inspiring fundraising challenges like this can make an enormous contribution to our crucial dementia research.

“The PET [positron emission tomography] brain scanner will be pivotal for a number of research projects at the University of Cambridge.

Without equipment like this we cannot conduct the research needed to make real breakthroughs for people living with dementia.”

You can follow the cyclists’ progress on Facebook and Instagram under the username @cycle2corfu To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/ fundraising/cycle2corfu

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‘Talk to someone: It is not weak to admit that you are struggling’ NEXT Monday [September 10] is International Suicide Prevention Day, and according to the most recent figures around 6,000 people took their own lives in 2017.

That’s one every 90 minutes – and many more attempt suicide. For men under the age of 50, it was the number one cause of death.

Ian Blunt, a life coach and founder of Life Change Guide in Tonbridge, wants to raise awareness of the issue and help people cope with depression and anxiety.

“We all have times in life that are tough. We might have a week or more where we feel down or receive bad news that really takes the train off the track. But the key is to experience it, process it and then move on,” he said.

“It might take time, but acknowledging that we need to move forward is crucial. If we don’t, it will snowball and we could sink into poor mental health.

“One in six adults in the UK experiences a common mental health problem such as anxiety or depression. If left unattended, it can destroy our sense of self-worth and we feel helpless.

“We think no one else will be able to help. Worst of all, we feel we are the only ones in the world with a problem. So we fall into what I call fatal depression.

“We need to tackle mental health issues earlier, by admitting we are struggling and talking to people. It is not weak to do so. In fact it’s a strength.

“If the people don’t respond well, talk to someone else. There are many out there who will understand and have been through it.

“I have, and it wasn’t fun. The biggest help, the best prevention, was talking to people around me about it.

“So my first piece of advice is to find someone you trust and talk to them. They will be glad that you are no longer alone in your fight.

“If you don’t trust anyone around you, call a help line – they are anonymous.

“Then you can get help in other ways: Coaching, support groups and social media communities are all there to listen to you and share experiences.

“Audio books are also a great way to hear that you are not alone.

Most podcasts are free, and on Spotify you can find albums on stress, anxiety and beating depression.

“Finally, keep moving – sitting at home doing nothing will make the problem worse. Go for a walk in a park or catch the train to the seaside for the day.

“If you are having suicidal thoughts, you can call the Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123, or CALM [Campaign Against Living Miserably] on 0800 58 58 58 from 5pm to midnight every day.”

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For more information about Ian’s coaching services, contact him through his website at lifechangeguide.com REACH OUT Mental health issues can make you feel helpless

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Town Forum challenges airport plans that could lead to extra 100,000 flights

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Tudeley meeting called

by Tonbridge council AN EXTRAORDINARY meeting has been called by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council [TMBC] over plans by the neighbouring authority in Tunbridge Wells to build a garden village on the border of the two boroughs.

The meeting has been called by the controlling Conservative Group at the Council to ‘specifically address concerns over the impact of development at Tudeley, included in the draft Tunbridge Wells Local Plan’.

The Planning and Transportation Advisory Board of TMBC will meet in a specially convened meeting on Wednesday October 2 at the council offices in Kings Hill in order to agree its response.

‘Tunbridge Wells Borough Council want to build around 2,500 homes in Tudeley’ PLANS TAKE FLIGHT Gatwick submits planning application for second runway THE prospect of more planes flying over Tunbridge Wells has moved a step closer after Gatwick submitted its planning application to bring the standby runway into routine use.

As reported in the Times, the airport has announced it is to press on with its ‘masterplan’ that will see it turn its current standby runway into a second departure route by mid-2020.

Gatwick say this will enable the airport to service 55,000 more passengers each year.

Opponents of the scheme, including Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark and Tom Tugendhat, the MP for Tonbridge & Malling, say the airport has ‘continually under-invested in the local amenities and social infrastructure that would be required to support a project of this size and scale’.

Local opposition groups, including the Town

Forum, have also said they intend to challenge the proposals that will see departure traffic increase by 36 per cent, leading to more than 100,000 extra flights travelling along local flight paths, which include Tunbridge Wells.

Capacity Despite this opposition, Gatwick has formally submitted a notice to the Planning Inspectorate of its intention to prepare an application for development consent.

This action is the first step in the Development Consent Order [DCO] application process for the ‘Gatwick Airport Northern Runway’ project.

Next month, the airport say they will submit a ‘Scoping Request’ to the Planning Inspector,

which sets out the proposed approach and key issues to be included within the process.

Tim Norwood, Gatwick’s Chief Planning Officer, said: “As the biggest private investment in our region for many years, the start of the process to use our existing Northern Runway is a significant milestone.

“This project has the capacity to offer significant local economic benefits, new jobs and an exciting future for the region.

“As we take our plans forward, we are committed to working in partnership with our local communities, councils and partners to ensure we grow sustainably and present information in a clear and transparent way, including a more detailed stage of public consultation on the project next year.”

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council want to build around 2,500 homes in Tudeley, which sits in its borough but is right next to the border with Tonbridge & Malling.

David Lettington, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure at TMBC, said: “Councillors in Tonbridge and neighbouring villages understandably have concerns about the impact of this development on infrastructure in the area.

“It is important that they are able to have their say to ensure that our council’s response reflects their concerns.

“That’s why I have asked that this extraordinary meeting be convened to discuss this.

“Of course, the proposals lie in Tunbridge Wells borough and it will be for them to determine whether to proceed with this plan.

“However, as part of the consultation, we will be responding in a forthright manner to make clear our issues with the proposals.”

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DUNLOPILLO HULSTA CELESTE MULTI-VARIS Single 90cm Electric ottoman Low 4 drawer chest divan set with matching Glass top with walnut details. headboard.

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CULINARY CONCEPTS All stock ceiling and wall lights now ½ original price.

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14

NEWS

National News

HS2 is delayed and billions over budget

BRITAIN’S second high speed railway, HS2, could cost up to £22billion more than its previous budget and be delayed by as much as seven years, the company behind the project said.

A report by HS2 Ltd chairman Allan Cook said that the original plans ‘did not take sufficient account’ of the effect of building a high-speed line through areas that are densely populated and with challenging ground conditions.

He said the project’s budget has ‘proved unrealistic’, but added: “At the same time the benefits have been understated.”

Mr Cook said the previous budget for HS2 was £55.7billion but it could cost up to £78billion, with both figures at 2015 prices.

It was due to open in phases, with the final sections from Crewe to Manchester, and Birmingham to Leeds, completed by 2033.

But the scheme is not expected to be finished until as late as 2040, Mr Cook added.

A separate review into whether to scrap the railway was launched by Prime Minister Boris Johnson last month and will be completed this autumn.

In a written statement to Parliament, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said infrastructure projects must be subjected to “the most rigorous scrutiny” and this must be done “with an open mind and a clean sheet of paper”.

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

PM fails to control Tory rebels ahead of Commons Brexit fight BORIS JOHNSON was desperately trying to fight off a Tory revolt yesterday [Tuesday] ahead of last night’s crunch emergency Parliamentary debate on Brexit.

One MP resigned the whip and joined hte Liberal Democrats, effectively removing Mr Johnson’s majority, while others insisted they would vote against the PM to stop a no-deal.

The Prime Minister dramatically raised the stakes on Monday by signalling he will ask for a snap general election if rebel Tories and opposition MPs back measures aimed at delaying Brexit to prevent the UK crashing out of the European Union without a deal.

In a sign of the bitter divisions within the Conservative ranks, former justice minister, Phillip Lee, crossed the floor and sat with Jo Swinson as the Prime Minister made his G7 statement yesterday afternoon.

Before that, former chancellor Philip Hammond accused Downing Street of ‘rank hypocrisy’ and warned of the ‘fight of a lifetime’ if officials attempt to prevent him from standing at the next general election as a Conservative candidate.

Rebellion He said: “A lot of my colleagues have come under immense pressure. Some have responded to that by saying ‘enough, I’m going’. That is not going to be my approach. This is my party. I have been a member of this party for 45 years.”

Ex-Cabinet minister Justine Greening said she would not seek to stand as a Tory candidate at the next election, telling reporters that a no-deal Brexit was ‘the most profoundly un-Conservative policy you could possibly have’.

Ms Greening and Mr Hammond along with Dominic Grieve all confirmed they would join

LEAVERS Brexiteers outside Parliament before last night’s debate opposition MPs in voting for legislation designed to delay Britain’s exit from the European Union if no agreement can be struck with the European Union before October 31.

With the Tory-DUP majority of just one and rebels uniting behind the draft law, which was revealed by Labour MP Hilary Benn on Monday, Mr Johnson faced defeat last night in the Commons.

On Monday, he sought to scare off a rebellion by letting it be known he would push for a snap general election if MPs succeed in their bid to seize control of parliamentary proceedings.

The Prime Minister held a last-ditch meeting with potential rebels including Mr Hammond, David Gauke and Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark on Tuesday morning.

Following the meeting a source close to the group said Mr Johnson ‘gave an unconvincing explanation’ of how a deal could get through in the time allowed.

Meanwhile, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn gathered Westminster opposition leaders for talks in his parliamentary office to discuss tactics and whether Labour would back Mr Johnson’s call for an early election on October 14.

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

National News

NEWS

15

Deadly Dorian stalls over the Bahamas HURRICANE DORIAN came to a catastrophic day-long halt over the north-west Bahamas, flooding the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama with walls of water.

At least five people died when the hurricane hit at category five, with winds at 185pmh.

“We are in the midst of an historic tragedy,” prime minister Hubert Minnis said. “The devastation is unprecedented and extensive.”

Winds and rain continued to pound the northwest islands late on Monday night into early Tuesday, carving a path of destruction and

BATTERED Winds from Dorian as it hit the Bahamas

sending people fleeing the floodwaters from one shelter to another.

It is slowly edging closer to the southeast coast of the US overnight, while continuing to pound Grand Bahama Island into the morning.

1,361 flights are reported to have been cancelled within, into or out of the US by Monday afternoon - vastly above an average day.

Last night, the hurricane was downgraded to a category two storm as it moved towards the eastern US coast. It is expected to climb coastal states up to North Carolina later in the week.

Iran oil tanker pursued by US turns off tracker near Syria AN IRANIAN oil tanker has turned off its tracking beacon after being pursued by the US, leading to renewed speculation that it will head to Syria.

The disappearance of the Adrian Darya 1, follows a pattern of Iranian oil tankers turning off their Automatic Identification System to try to mask where they deliver their cargo amid US sanctions targeting Iran’s energy industry.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani reiterated on Tuesday that Tehran will not enter into direct talks with the US unless Washington rejoins the 2015 nuclear deal that President Donald Trump withdrew America from more than a year ago.

Mr Trump’s withdrawal and the imposition of heavy economic sanctions on Iran have blocked it from selling its crude oil abroad, a crucial source of government funding for the Islamic Republic.

Pattern Tensions have spiked across the Persian Gulf over mysterious tanker explosions, the shooting down of a US military surveillance drone by Iran, and America deploying more troops and warplanes to the region.

The Adrian Darya, which is carrying 2.1 million barrels of Iranian crude worth some 130 million US dollars, switched off its AIS beacon just before 16.00 GMT Monday.

Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, has said the US had intelligence that the Adrian Darya would head to the Syrian port of Tartus, just a short distance from its last reported position.

The actions of the Adrian Darya follow a pattern of other Iranian ships turning off their trackers once they near Cyprus in the Mediterranean Sea, said Ranjith Raja, a lead analyst at the data firm Refinitiv.

Mr Raja said it was likely that the ship would be

offloading its cargo in Syria, based on the fact that Turkey has stopped taking Iranian crude oil and Syria historically has taken around one million barrels of crude oil a month from Iran.

“The Iranian oil going to Syria is not something new,” he added. “This is a known fact.”

The oil shipment website Tanker Trackers similarly believes the Adrian Darya to be off Syria.

Iranian officials have not said who bought the Adrian Darya’s cargo, only that it has been sold.

The US, which has sought to seize the tanker, alleged in federal court that the ship is owned by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, a paramilitary organisation answerable only to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The US recently declared the Guard a terrorist organisation, giving it greater power to pursue seizing its assets.

Under the landmark 2015 agreement, Iran agreed to limit its enrichment of uranium.

The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed last week that Iran’s stockpile of low-enriched uranium still exceeds the amount allowed by the deal.

The UN agency also said Iran continues to enrich uranium up to 4.5%, above the 3.67% allowed under the deal but still far below weapons-grade levels of 90%.

Iran has warned it will take additional steps away from the accord on Friday if it doesn’t get help from Europe to sell its oil abroad, calling it their “third step” away from the deal.

An Iranian politician has suggested France is proposing a 15 billion US dollar credit line for Tehran if it returns to the deal.

Mr Rouhani told MPs that Iran would not negotiate directly with the US unless it returned to the deal.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Teenager and 62-year-old man arrested for terrorism offences

after making the final six. The shortlist for the coveted annual literary honour was announced on Tuesday at the British Library in London.

A MAN and a teenage boy have been held on suspicion of terror offences in Warwickshire.

The pair, aged 62 and 16, were held at separate addresses in Rugby by the West Midlands counter-terrorism unit.

They are being questioned at a police station in the West Midlands after being arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism.

Police said the arrests were ‘pre-planned and intelligence-led’.

West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit is carrying out an investigation with Warwickshire Police.

Dame Barbara’s PM meeting

Two-time Booker Prize shortlist TWO previous booker Prize winners have been shortlisted for the prestigious 2019 award.

Margaret Atwood and Salman Rushdie are in the running to win the prize for the second time

DAME Barbara Windsor’s husband Scott Mitchell has said he told her ‘about eight times’ they were going to visit Downing Street for a meeting about dementia.

The former EastEnders star, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2014 has subsequently become an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society.

On Monday, she hand delivered a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson at Number 10 pleading for better care for fellow sufferers.

In response, Mr Johnson told the popular actress that he intends to ‘sort it out’.

He continued: “I’m going to do my best for you.

It’s a big old job.”

As their chat came to a close, Dame Barbara, who first found fame in the Carry On films asked the PM: “Can I have a kiss?”

Two-year-old Lucas is treated at GOSH for a rare eye condition called Coats’ Disease.

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16

BUSINESS

National News

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Mixed fortunes reported at Lego

MORTGAGED Tesco has sold its bank’s mortgage business to Lloyds

Lloyds acquires Tesco Bank’s £3.8billion mortgage business LLOYDS Banking Group has fought off a raft of rivals to snap up Tesco Bank’s mortgage business for around £3.8 billion.

The deal will see more than 23,000 residential mortgage customers transfer to Lloyds-owned business Halifax in a move cementing the bank’s position as Britain’s biggest lender.

The sale of the portfolio, which has a lending balance of around £3.7 billion, is expected to be completed by the end of March next year.

It comes after Tesco Bank said in May it was stopping new mortgage lending and put the business up for sale amid challenging market conditions.

‘Our focus is on how we best serve Tesco customers’ Gerry Mallon, Tesco Bank chief executive, said: “Our focus is on how we best serve Tesco customers and align our resources effectively to their needs, while ensuring that our offer remains sustainable in the long term.

“As a result, we made the decision to move away from our mortgage offering.

“Our priority throughout has been to complete a commercially acceptable transaction with a purchaser who will continue to serve our customers well.”

But there has been concern among Tesco Bank’s home loan customers that the sale will spell the end of their ability to earn Tesco Clubcard loyalty points through mortgage payments.

Lloyds beat high street competitors including Santander and Royal Bank of Scotland to secure the portfolio.

Mortgage lenders have been hit by intense competition in the market, which has in part been caused by recent banking rules to ring-fence retail operations from investment banking business.

The competition has seen borrowers benefit from lower rates, but has put pressure on smaller lenders and challenger banks.

Vim Maru, group director of retail at Lloyds Banking Group, said: “This is a good deal for the group, our shareholders and Tesco’s mortgage customers.

“We believe our Halifax brand will make a good home for these customers and we look forward to welcoming them to the group.”

TOY maker Lego has reported its revenue is up in the first half of 2019 but profits are down due to investments aimed at creating long-term growth.

The Danish-based company said revenue was up 4 per cent but its investments had led to a 12 per cent drop in net profit.

The privately-held business reported first-half revenue of 14.8billion kroner (£1.81billion), while net profit dropped to 2.7billion kroner (£330million).

Lego CEO Niels B Christiansen said the group was ‘satisfied with our performance given the transformative shifts which continue to reshape the global toy industry’.

Mr Christiansen said that the investments were meant to grow, open new markets in China and India and develop online sales platforms, among other things.

The group, which is based in Billund, Denmark, does not release quarterly figures.

Consumer sales in established markets such as the Americas and Western Europe grew by single-digit percentages.

China, which Lego called ‘a strategic growth market’, continued its strong double-digit growth in consumer sales.

Mumbai Lego has some 500 stores around the world carrying the toy maker’s logo. The group will continue to invest in China and is on track to have more than 140 shops in 35 cities by the end of the year.

In addition, more than 70 stores carrying the Lego brand will open outside of China during 2019.

There are also plans to open an office in Mumbai, India, in early 2020, from where the group will seek to expand its presence in that country.

“The growing middle class, the importance of education and growing economy make India a logical next step in our efforts,” Mr Christiansen said, adding that stores are really important as they allow children to actually touch the product and learn about it.

Lego was forced to rethink its strategy in 2017 after it suffered a slump in sales and profits, which resulted in it axeing 1,400 jobs.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Pound falls amid UK election speculation

Ferguson to break Restaurant Group to up into two UK firms lose sites after loss

THE pound has tumbled below 1.20 US dollars to a near three-year low amid Brexit tumult in Westminster and mounting speculation over a snap general election.

Sterling was 0.9% lower against the US dollar at 1.196, which marked its lowest level since the “flash crash” in October 2016.

It had earlier fallen below 1.20 US dollars for the first time since January 2017.

The pound was also trading lower against the euro, down 0.6% at 1.09 euros.

It follows hefty declines on Monday and comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson faces a showdown in Parliament after he vowed to push for a snap general election if rebel MPs succeed in a bid to seize control of parliamentary proceedings.

Other than the ‘flash crash’ of 2016 when the pound fell briefly to $1.15, it is at its lowest level since 1985.

PLUMBING giant Ferguson has announced plans to break up and create a separate UK business, as it also confirmed the departure of its top boss.

The firm said that it will split off its UK operations as Wolseley UK following a lengthy strategic review of the group.

Ferguson said Wolseley UK will be an independently-listed business, adding that the board is considering the “most appropriate listing structure” for the group going forward.

Ferguson also confirmed on Tuesday that chief executive John Martin is set to leave the company on November 19 following nine years on the board.

He will be replaced in the role by the current chief executive of Ferguson’s US operations, Kevin Murphy, who has been at the firm for 20 years.

Mr Martin said the ‘demerger’ would enable the two companies to execute their ‘indpendent business plans’.

RESTAURANT GROUP, which includes chains Chiquito and Frankie & Benny’s, is said to be looking to exit a number of their sites to stabilise its long-term future after posting hefty half year losses.

The group, which also owns Wagamama, posted an £87.7million pre-tax loss in the six months to June 30, falling from a £12.2million profit in the previous year, as it was weighed down by impairment charges related to its leisure estate.

The dining business said it has earmarked 42 sites which it plans to exit, in addition to 76 Frankie & Benny’s sites it had identified earlier this year.

The company insisted there would be no immediate closures but instead they would allow leases to expire naturally at ‘unattractive’ locations.

The figures were the first results for the company since they hired former HBOS chief executive, Andy Hornsby.

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

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

Q: My father and step-mother both passed away earlier this year. Neither of them left wills and it is not known who died first. Who will inherit their money?

A: There is recent case law on this exact point. The case of Winter v Cutler has recently been determined by the High Court. In 2016 a husband and wife were found dead at their property. It was not known who died first and their respective daughters were therefore disputing who would inherit the parent’s property. The warring step-sisters took the matter all the way to the High Court where the judge ended their three year long battle.

A 95 year old law, the Law of Property Act 1925, was relied on. That Act created a “presumption” that the elder of the two died first. Therefore, it was presumed that the husband died first in this instance and his share of the property would have consequently passed to his wife. Her daughter was therefore held to inherit the entire property and the husband’s daughter received nothing. The daughter of the husband was trying to convince the court with medical evidence that her father must have died after his wife.

The court considered the evidence, but decided it was not conclusive enough.

The case highlights the importance of having a properly constituted will in place. If there is no valid will in place, a person dies “intestate” and their estate is distributed in accordance with a set of rules known as the intestacy rules. If a husband or wife dies, then their spouse (or civil partner) keeps all the assets, including property, up to the value of £2500,000 and all of their personal possessions whatever their value. The remainder of the person’s estate is then split – half to the spouse and the other half equally between any children. Please note though, that does not include step-children. Again, this is another reason why making a will is so important, particularly in step-families.

It is also vital to consider when purchasing a property, how the legal title is held. There are two ways in which this can be done. Either, as tenants in common, in which case a person is entitled to leave their share of the property to whomever they choose and is named in their will, or as joint tenants, where the survivorship rule applies, i.e. on the death of one of the co-owners, the property automatically passes to the surviving co-owner.

In your particular instance, there will be a number of factors that will need to be considered, including how your father and step-mother’s property, if any, was held. It is likely that the Winter v Cutler case will remain good law for the time being and therefore in situations such as yours, it is likely that the older of your father and step-mother will be held to have died first. As there were no wills in place, his or her estate will then be distributed in accordance with the intestacy rules.

If you would like to discuss the issues detailed above, please contact Amy Wilford on 01892 701306, email amy.wilford@ts-p.co.uk or visit our website www.ts-p.co.uk

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NEWS

Local News

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG Roadworks are inconvenient but will bring positive vision for our town We are familiar with the roadworks taking place in front of the War Memorial, concurrent with works continuing in Civic Way in order to enhance our public spaces. These developments, designed to provide a more pedestrian-friendly area, reminded me of the Tunbridge Wells Festival which took place over the August Bank Holiday weekend seven years ago and was packed with people enjoying the stalls and outdoor entertainment.

Obviously there are inconveniences and challenges whilst these roadworks continue, as there will be with future works and developments in the town, but the eventual transformation should provide worthwhile benefits to businesses, residences and visitors alike. The old adage short-term sacrifice for a long-term benefit comes to mind.

Many continue to be engaged in developing a positive vision for our town and seeking agreement to bring it to fulfilment. It has certainly been debated at length over some considerable time, so it is hoped a sense of unity will soon prevail and real progress can be achieved. I look forward to seeing these long and carefully developed plans for our town come to fruition.

I’d also like to give a plug to Trinity’s fundraising to be able to open up the building to reveal its hidden spaces, and for the clock

We have to ensure financial stability Lawrence Heasman [August 14] accuses Labour Southborough town councillors of ‘mindless political spite’ in relation to the Hub, without any facts.

On March 28 the town council approved several documents crucial to the Hub, and resolved to accept in good faith the financial offer from NHS England regarding the proposed medical centre within the Hub. After the May elections, NHS England retracted that same offer. It replaced it with one less favourable to Southborough.

Labour councillors were obliged to safeguard the council’s long-term finances by investigating and questioning what had been happening between the parties concerned before accepting the fresh offer, and on August 7 the council did accept their offer.

Mr Heasman may not appreciate that the town council operates on an annual budget of £500,000, which could all too easily suffer damage if the Hub is not established on the right financial footing.

He also reflects on his time as a borough councillor and criticises the Labour opposition (of which I was one) for ‘negativity’ and for voting automatically against his (43-strong) group. What anti-democratic cant!

At that time there were fewer opposition councillors than Conservative Cabinet members on the council and it was axiomatic that the latter voted for their own policies ‘automatically’. Should nobody oppose them?

He does admit that people talk about local Conservatives’ complacency, and he should consider how their complacency contributed to his party promoting the referendum on our membership of the European Union before attacking Labour.

Graham Munn Southborough

Stop blame game and get to work I have been reading all of the correspondents with regard to the new theatre and council offices in Tunbridge Wells, and you all seem to have missed the bigger picture.

Balancing act on the shop shelves Mr Magnus’s letter about leaving the EU and sourcing our food elsewhere [August 21] contains a number of anomalies, one of which is: We are leaving the EU, therefore we will not buy food from the EU. Nonsense, of course.

Linking this and Boris Johnson to CO2 emissions as a consequence is, equally, wide of the mark: We already bring in huge amounts from outside the EU, as a visit to any supermarket will attest. That non-EU growers can do this and get it on the shelves cheaper illustrates that the EU agricultural market is closed, too dependent on subsidies, and too uncompetitive.

Perhaps Mr Magnus should do the weekly shop to get a balanced view.

John Ward Moorhouse Tunbridge Wells

Not the best of all possible replies

THE LONG VIEW Brian Bissell abseils above the festival in 2012 tower to become a heritage attraction in the town with a 360-degree viewing platform from one of the highest points in Tunbridge Wells.

Brian Bissell Via email For as long as I remember, Tunbridge Wells was always a Conservative town, and many of their councillors would still be in their respective seats if they had listened to the people of Tunbridge Wells and its borough.

The people said it was not what they wanted, and the opportunity came for them to vote for someone that maybe would listen to them, and punished the councillors by voting them out.

Maybe it’s time for the whole council to get together and sort this whole mess out instead of all this blame culture.

Mrs L Hicks Tunbridge Wells

Pulling the plug on electric charging Greg Clark’s article about the need for more charging points for electric vehicles [August 28] reminded me of a holiday in Ibiza a few years ago, staying in the hills near the small northern village of St Joan – hippy central.

There were two charging points installed, extraordinary for such a small, remote location, and on every daily trip to the village to buy newspapers, I never saw them used once, but on one occasion there was a diesel-engined car parked across both bays, engine running, while the driver answered his phone. Nearby, a huge diesel-engined pick-up was parked, engine running, and a large black dog sitting in the driver’s seat. The driver was nowhere to be seen.

Hugh Masters Pembury

More expensive on other side of fence Why is it that fruit grown locally and in the EU is not cheaper than apples and the like imported from South America – Chile, Argentina and many other parts of the southern hemisphere – despite paying a duty that exceeds €1 per kilo?

I would expect that something that is grown in the next field to be much cheaper, not the same price, or more.

Are British growers under the impression that somehow their produce commands a premium?

Evelyn Hervey Tenterden

I had hoped for a more sensible reply to my letter, but I see Mr Bullen [August 28] is a true Panglossian (‘All is for the best in the best of all possible worlds’) and can see no further than any other Leaver with their eyes permanently closed.

I’ll say nothing of his state of denial as regards climate change, but would ask him just who is ‘destroying our democracy’ if it is not Boris Johnson, who now wishes to close down Parliament so that he can have his (dictatorial) way to the detriment of the entire country, a move exactly contrary to the wishes of our elected representatives?

As to the point I made about Britain importing goods from the furthest parts of the globe, he seems to be supporting my contention that Johnson is intent on exactly replicating the longdistance transport of precisely the same goods as are already imported into the EU. Cui bono?

Alexander Magnus Tunbridge Wells

Time to give the unaligned a chance Paul Stepto and Fran Long get frequent space in And Another Thing… punting Green issues.

They’re Tonbridge Green Party activists, too, and this party gets a regular opportunity to put its case in the frequent and very generous half-pages you allow it: Opportunities not available to other correspondents. August 21 was a case in point. I wish I had such, but I make no complaint, you print my shouts often enough.

But I think a review of your letters policy may be appropriate to give a chance to the many unaligned who have a point to make.

Or is there a paucity of correspondents?

Ben Hardy Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

HOUSE-SITTING. Yes, heard of it. Dogsitting. Yep, that one rings a bell. But ducksitting? Really! Friends agreed to take care of the neighbour’s birds while they were away on hols for a fortnight. Calverley bumped into hubby a week into the arrangement and naturally enquired as to how it was all going. The poor chap held his head in his hands and explained: “Letting them out in the morning is no problem. You just open the doors.” So what is the problem? “The fun starts in the evening, trying to get them back inside,” he moaned. “The ducks are okay, but the drake hides in the hedge and refuses to budge. It can take another hour.” Hope they bring you back a decent bottle or two…

PANIC moment at the mansion as the thing known as Alexa announced the imminent home delivery of ‘302 ink cartridges’. They are £21 each; you do the maths. Calverley’s pulse returned to normal, however, when Management [Mrs C] explained that the ‘302’ referred to the model number for the cartridge and not the quantity.

TECHNOLOGY is a wonderful thing. Probably.

Calverley popped round to see a friend who has a big gate (don’t we all) where you press a button for access. Seconds later, His friend answers through the speaker and says no point in coming in as the family are in the Maldives. Seems the system patches the call through to wherever you are in the world. Or does it? Was the neighbour really away?

All choked up over bus belching I am fed up with constantly being choked by disgustingly dirty bus exhaust fumes at the stops in Tunbridge Wells. Their belching is so bad you can’t breathe, and for anyone with asthma it could trigger an attack. Surely they cannot be passing the current emissions tests?

Rhoda Sullivan Tunbridge Wells

Do these instruments ring any bells?

Calverley, man about town and much-vaunted toper (he alleges), needs to get out more and drink further afield at The Bell in Ticehurst, as Mark O’Callaghan. These many years past, he’d have tinkled out many a fine tune in the loos.

I’m no expert, but the brass instruments look like Bb tenor horns, or baritones, to me. But they could be Wagner tubas. Anyone?

Edward Baker Tunbridge Wells

TALKING tech, this must be every parent’s nightmare. Family heads off to the West Country where the two boys discover (horror) they have left the leads to their vital Xboxes at home. (Note to grown-ups; without Xbox life is not worth living for gamers.) But no problem, older son is driving down and will bring the ‘wretched’ leads. Boy racer pulls up next day with noisy exhausts big enough to walk through – without the leads. He forgot.

They actually had to talk to each other.

HERE’S a thought. When Brexit finally becomes a reality (oh yes it will), instead of celebrating with Land of Hope and Glory we should play the theme tune from The Great Escape. Complaints on a postcard…

Chin Chin, dear reader

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

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Education

NEWS

19

EDUCATION Times

Encouraging young primary pupils to lead the way on putting a stop to ocean plastic

Local business supports 9,000 children to learn about marine pollution BESTSELLING children’s author and mother of four Ellie Jackson has teamed up with a local Tunbridge Wells business to teach 9,000 local children about the perils of ocean plastic.

Through the support of Pemburybased Revolution Events, Ellie secured funding for 30 primary schools across the Tunbridge Wells community to each receive a set of her three highlyacclaimed children’s books, together with supporting teaching resources.

An additional set of the books was also presented to Tunbridge Wells Library last month, with the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr James Scholes and Mrs Jane Scholes, in attendance.

The books are true stories about the problem of ocean plastic, each following three well-loved animals as they encounter plastic bags, balloons and fishing nets. They are written in a positive and hopeful light to inspire the next generation to tackle this very topical issue.

Ellie has been really pleased to see the support for this project coming from within the community. She

comments: “I met Rich Tribe from Revolution Events last year at Sharkfest in Bristol, organised by his daughter and former Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School pupil Jasmine Tribe.

“He has an obvious passion for protecting our environment, and I am so pleased that he is supporting this project to educate an entire generation in the local area about the need to take action and work together to help protect our beautiful environment and marine wildlife.”

Schools will be encouraged to use the books to inspire the children to make a difference in their communities by organising beach cleans, litter picks, setting up recycling stations and

writing letters to local businesses asking them to stop their use of single-use plastic.

With the current media spotlight on the issue of ocean plastics, children play a key role in inspiring adults to make the changes our environment so desperately needs us to make.

These books are the catalyst for the whole community to get behind campaigns such as Plastic Free Communities run

by Surfers Against Sewage, the Refill initiative from City-to-Sea, and to get involved in 2 Minute Beach Cleans or litter picks.

Revolution Events Co-Founder Rich Tribe said: “We are a local business employing many parents from the AUTHOR Tunbridge Ellie Jackson Wells area, so we are delighted

FREE BOOKS Rich Tribe with the Mayor & Mayoress of Tunbridge Wells to support Ellie and her mission to educate more children about the environmental impact of plastic waste.”

Ellie is asking for the wider community, businesses and individuals to support the children’s efforts by making small changes which will collectively make a big difference to our environment: By refusing single-use plastic such

as straws, takeaway containers, disposable coffee mugs and plastic bags, and by recognising that every single time that you choose reusable over disposable, you are helping to preserve our fragile environment and wildlife.

All books are also available at WH Smith in Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells.

20

NEWS

Weekly Comment

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Nus Ghani

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Nus Ghani was elected MP for Wealden in May 2015 and represents Crowborough, Eridge and Uckfield, among other towns and villages. She also currently serves as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Transport and is Assistant Government Whip. In 2018, Ms Ghani became the first Muslim woman to speak from the House of Commons Despatch Box. The Times also publishes comment from the Labour, Liberal Democrat and Green parties.

Conservative MP for Wealden

I hope Helen’s law brings some comfort to families OFTEN I am asked what motivates MPs, and what real impact they can make. It does take sheer determination and spirit, but laws can be changed or new laws can be made.

One of my ambitions, back in 2013, when I spoke to constituents in Wealden and was selected as their Conservative candidate, was surrounding my concerns over lenient sentencing.

After four years of quietly and constantly working away with MPs, I am proud to announce that Helen’s law came into force last month; a bill that would refuse parole to murderers who conceal their victim’s body.

‘It’s worse when the perpetrator refuses to acknowledge the crime or disclose information about the victim’ The legislation was introduced following a fouryear campaign by the mother of Helen McCourt, a 22 year-old insurance clerk who was murdered in 1988 and whose killer has never revealed her whereabouts.

Helen’s law will place a legal duty on the Parole Board to reflect the failure to disclose the site of a victim’s remains when considering a prisoner’s suitability for release.

As your MP, I deal with a variety of cases for Wealden residents, and the most heartbreaking

and difficult are when horrendous crimes have been committed. It’s worse when the perpetrator refuses to acknowledge the crime or disclose information about the victim.

This law is a vital way of giving closure to families, and as one of the primary supporters of the legislation when it was first introduced, is something that I am proud to now see in force. I hope it will bring some comfort to families all over the country.

Another welcome set of recent announcements on keeping our streets safe is to get 20,000 police officers recruited, to widen the pilot for stop and search powers of the police and create 10,000 new prison places.

I will continue to lobby our Police and Crime Commissioner for any extra resources to be allocated to Wealden.

Although we mustn’t forget hidden crimes behind closed doors, my MP surgery has seen an increase in numbers of constituents presenting cases on domestic violence, child abuse and scamming of older people.

We must all work together to give confidence for victims to come forward and justice to be served swiftly.

The work of our police is so diverse, and this week I am spending a day with the local police on a working shift across Wealden which will provide me with further understanding.

I look forward to my session on the beat and I will gather insights to lobby the PM to ensure that rural crime is not forgotten.

Mark Ellis

PASSING OUT: 20,000 extra police officers will be welcomed as will widening stop and search powers

Liberal Democrat Councillor

Mark Ellis was elected as Liberal Democrat Councillor for St John’s in May 2018. He is father to two boys, a governor at a local school, and has many years’ experience working with local businesses in Kent and Sussex.

Brexit has escalated the cost of the failing theatre project AT A time when a national Conservative Government is happy to prorogue Parliament in preparation for an economically damaging hard Brexit, our local Tory administration are similarly oblivious to the fact that Brexit has escalated the cost of their already failing theatre and Town Hall project from £90million to £108million.

In private life there comes a point when you review your position and ask yourself a question: “Am I doing the right thing?” But all too often in public life dogma takes over.

In order to save face, politicians will double down on their position and will defend themselves with spurious arguments.

Alternative Cllr Scott claims that although we are borrowing another £10million at a lower rate of 2.15 per cent a year over 50 years, we are paying the same annual cost for finance. However, he completely ignores that to make the figures work, Kent County Council is required to bail the project out by another £5million of taxpayers’ money, with the balance coming from fundraising sources.

Cllr Scott also claims that there are no alternative sites. This is only true if your vision is to build a 1,200 seat West End production

theatre. If your view is that the town needs a smaller community venue and multi-use space, we already have this site in the Assembly Hall Theatre.

The Liberal Democrat group’s view on both these claims is that what is missing is glaringly obvious to anyone who follows the news. If costs are rising due to Brexit for a building project, they will also be rising for the whole economy.

This is likely to impact discretionary entertainment such as ticket sales moving forward, increasing the risk of a white elephant sitting in the middle of our town sucking up resources that could be used elsewhere.

As a group, the Liberal Democrats are especially concerned that the latest report to the council still states a position that we should sell the current Town Hall site to property developers in order to fund Calverley Square.

The risk here is that in the same way as the ABC Cinema site has been left unoccupied for years, with different property developers selling the land on, we will end up with another larger derelict site in the heart of our town.

The report also goes on to suggest a number of viable alternative uses for the building which require minimal investment and can produce income. Our preference would be to keep control of this space for the benefit of the community.

DERELICT The Town Hall could end up unoccupied for years, like the ABC cinema site

The last opportunity to get your voice heard will be on September 25 at 6.30pm, when Full Council has a final vote on whether they wish to proceed with building.

As the numbers in council are finely balanced

between Tories for the project and opposition voices (including many Conservatives), we would welcome you to come to the Town Hall in peaceful protest in order to encourage waverers on the council to see sense.

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

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AVAILABLE EVER Y WEDNESDAY – A MUST-READ

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A baker’s cottage

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23

A DOUBLY GOOD RURAL OPPORTUNITY

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Echoes of Arundel Castle

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39

fill the interior of this Tunbridge Wells home Page 22

319 St John’s Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN4 9XE

SUMMER OFFER FREE Quooker Flex Boiling hot tap water with every new kitchen (Ts&Cs apply*)

BUY INTO A HOLE NEW HERITAGE LOOK

Innovative Kitchen design with limitless potential Call us now to book your free design appointment 01892 289070 | www.kutchenhause.co.uk

*Quooker Summer Offer Ts&Cs: 1. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. 2. Must be with a complete kitchen including appliances, worktops and units. 3. Only valid until 31/09/19. 4. Can only be used in the Tunbridge Wells store.

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Best property buys for...

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

Bishops Down Grange

Manor Park, Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE

£1,725,000 CONTACT Knight Frank, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 772947 • knightfrank.co.uk Sheer splendour resounds through this attached Victorian home close to the Common. And small wonder, as the reception rooms and hall include important Georgian ‘Gothick’ features understood to have been salvaged from Arundel Castle when it was remodelled in the late 19th century.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Decorative entrance and vestibule n Hall with mosaic floor and imposing fireplace n Drawing room with marble fireplace, painted wall decoration and door to garden room

n Elegant garden room with ‘Gothick’ theme n Bespoke fitted kitchen also with ‘Gothick’ theme n Large dining hall, including former Minstrel’s Gallery with built-in sideboards understood to be from the dining room at Arundel Castle

n Study with access to cellar n Master bedroom with dressing room and shower n 5 further bedrooms, 2 bathrooms plus box room n Driveway with parking for several cars n Gardens with lawns, terrace, fountain and lamp

The GARDEN ROOM…

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

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The PRICE…

The KITCHEN…

Myrtle Cottage Station Road, Groombridge GUIDE PRICE

£375,000 CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk A character cottage thought to date from the Victorian period which comes with a parcel of land providing a garden area and parking.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Dining room n Sitting room with fireplace n Kitchen with trades door to rear n Master bedroom with fine rural views n 2 further bedrooms plus bathroom/WC

Bakery Cottage

n Detached garden and off-road parking

Fordcombe Road, Fordcombe GUIDE PRICE

£795,000 CONTACT • Savills, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 507000 • savills.co.uk This lovely former bakery overlooking the village cricket pitch rises to the occasion with its character, including the original ovens and vaulted rooms boasting exposed beams. The en-suite bathroom, especially, is standout.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Built from local stone and brick and occupied by current owner for over 40 years

n Sitting room with large open fireplace, exposed brick walls and original bread ovens

n Dining room (originally the baker’s shop) also with open fireplace

n Delightful kitchen/breakfast room with Aga, double Belfast sink and door to garden

Little Conghurst Conghurst Lane, Hawkhurst GUIDE PRICE

£795,000 CONTACT • Savills, Cranbrook • 01580 720161 • savills.co.uk A pair of charming Grade II-listed cottages in need of refurbishment with planning to merge into one and extend. Dating from the 17th century, they lie in a country lane amid cottage gardens with far-reaching views.

n Ground floor shower room n Cellar

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Top floor bedroom with impressive en-suite

n 2 reception rooms

featuring a free-standing pedestal bath and lovely views

n 3 further bedrooms n Family bathroom stylishly fitted as a wet room n Garden to three sides, including a lawn and a south-facing seating area shaded by a pergola

n Paved drive offering parking for several cars n Double garage with boarded storage space

n 2 kitchens n 2 bathrooms n 5 bedrooms n 2 attic rooms n Attractive gardens, plus off-road parking n Cranbrook School Catchment 2019 n In total, approximately 0.4 of an acre

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Langton Green TN3 An imposing residence of approximately 8,000 sq ft ideal for family living located close to local amenities.

• • • •

1

Immaculately presented to a high specification Located on a sought-after private road Impressive entertaining space Approximately 2.2 miles to mainline station

8

8

5

Your local expert, Ross Davies, looks forward to helping you. ross.davies@knightfrank.com 01892 310997

Guide price £3,250,000 Freehold

Molyneux Park Road TN4 An attractive Edwardian detached family home in this sought-after location.

• • • •

1

Approximately 5,333 sq ft of accommodation South-facing rear garden Off-road parking Mainline station approximately 0.8 miles

7

4

5

Your local expert, Ross Davies, looks forward to helping you. ross.davies@knightfrank.com

Guide price £1,695,000 Freehold

01892 310997

knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent and the deposit, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property (if not an AST). (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) If the landlord agrees to you having a pet, you may be required to pay a higher deposit (if not an AST) or higher weekly rent (if an AST). Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www. knightfrank.co.uk/tenantfees.

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Horsmonden TN12

Mountfield Gardens TN1

1

1

An elegant town house approximately 0.2 of a mile from the mainline station. EPC: C. Guide price £950,000 Freehold

Guildford Road TN1

1

A beautiful Grade II* listed family residence, the former home of the Austen family.

Guide price £1,695,000 Freehold

A delightful terraced house in a sought-after convenient location. EPC: F. 5

2

4

Guide price £930,000 Freehold

Horney Common TN22

Speldhurst TN3

1

1

An Edwardian house requiring renovation in the centre of the village. EPC: E. Guide price £1,200,000 Freehold

Brenchley TN12

1 A most attractive black timber clad Grade II listed barn with spectacular views.

A substantial Grade II listed family house with tennis court and swimming pool in approximately 15.3 acres on the Ashdown Forest.

Guide price £925,000 Freehold

Guide price £1,850,000 Freehold

6

3

5

Call the Tunbridge Wells team on 01892 310997, we'd love to help you. knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent and the deposit, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property (if not an AST). (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) If the landlord agrees to you having a pet, you may be required to pay a higher deposit (if not an AST) or higher weekly rent (if an AST). Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www. knightfrank.co.uk/tenantfees.

Properties to call home

01892 507 000

Frant Road, Tunbridge Wells TN2

Blackhurst Lane, Tunbridge Wells TN2

Handsome and spacious family home, central location, 6 beds, 3 receptions, planning permission to extend and reconfigure the ground floor and basement, garden, 3,465 sq ft, EPC = E

Well-presented 5 double bedroom family home, tuckedaway no-through road location, convenient for stations and schools in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, 2,675 sq ft, EPC = C

Freehold

Freehold

Guide £1.35 million

Guide £1.075 million

Newlands Road, Tunbridge Wells TN4

Broadwater Down.

Tunbridge Wells TN2

Stylish 5 bed family home, popular residential location, very well placed for schools including Grammars, elevated with views, office/ studio, parking for several cars, 2,101 sq ft, EPC = C

Exciting renovation opportunity, former coach house, popular south side of town, convenient for High Street and station, 4 beds, garden, space for garage/annexe, 2,208 sq ft, EPC = E

Freehold

Freehold

Guide £895,000

New Instruction

Savills Tunbridge Wells

Open House Sat 14 September

Guide £750,000

Bidborough Village, Kent TN3

Palmers Green Lane, Brenchley Kent, TN12

Chain-free 3 bed detached family home in enviable village centre location, 2 bathrooms, kitchen/ diner and sitting room, front and rear gardens, conservatory, driveway parking, garage, 1,154 sq ft, EPC = D

Project for renovation and remodelling, 4 bedroom home in idyllic setting, elevated position with views, delightful 0.6 acre garden bordering farmland, side access and off-road parking, 1,551 sq ft, EPC = E

Freehold

Freehold

Guide £555,000

Open House Sat 14 September

Guide £550,000

Talk to us today Robert Jacobs Head of Office 01892 507000 rjacobs@savills.com

Natasha Selbie Associate Director 01892 507000 nselbie@savills.com

Becky Card Negotiator 01892 507000 bcard@savills.com

savills.co.uk | savills.co.uk Follow us on what can we do for you?

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

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White House

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AT A GLANCE THE WHITE HOUSE HIGH STREET, CHIPSTEAD n Grade II-listed house originating from 1600s, extended to link with barn n Opportunity to update and refurbish n For sale for first time in about 50 years n Features include wooden doors, beams, vaulted ceilings, multi-pane windows and exposed brick walls n Sitting room with inglenook fireplace and wood burner n Dining room with access to cellar and butler’s pantry n Family room with access to garden n Vaulted kitchen/breakfast room n Vaulted study n Conservatory n Shower room n Utility room; walk-in larder; workshop n 5 bedrooms (one used as dressing room, and two connecting in attic) n 2 spacious bathrooms n Gardens with climbing roses, terrace, lawn, fruit cage, pond with aquatic planting, wrought iron lamp post and a number of sheds and stores n Cobbled driveway leading to garage

Charming Grade II-listed family home with a wealth of history and character

GUIDE PRICE

£925,000

CONTACT • Savills, Sevenoaks • 01732 789700 • savills.co.uk

bracketts est. 1828

When experience counts...

Tonbridge £1,250 pcm Well-presented Mid Terrace property, established residential area, at the south end of the town walking distance of the High Street and some schools. 2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), open plan lounge-diner, good size garden, on-site parking, EPC D

Tonbridge Asking Price: £250,000 Purpose built first floor apartment, within walking distance of the High Street. Built in the 1990’s it offers well-arranged accommodation. INSPECTION RECOMMENDED. 2 Bedrooms (en-suite shower), lounge, fitted kitchen, parking. EPC C

South Tonbridge Asking Price £535,000 Tonbridge £800,000 - £850,000 Extended Semi-Detached Family Home, about 1.5 miles from the High Street.

Good Substantial Detached 5 bedroom family house, retaining the charm and features of an selection of schools at this end of the town.

4 Bedrooms (en-suite), 27ft kitchen-family Edwardian home. 3 reception rooms, kitchen-breakfast room, utility, cloakroom, store room, garden, rooms,lounge, garage,cloakroom, corner plot.

EPC E15ft summer house, garage, Parking. EPC D

Groombridge £2500pcm A stunning square proportioned four bedroom family home in a particularly sought after village, located on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells, with a cricket green, local shop & post office, bakery, pubs, church and a much desired primary school. This home is beautifully presented and has as secluded enclosed garden and a gated driveway. EPC E

Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £525,000 Top (3rd) floor spacious, light & airy 3 bedroom apartment in this purpose built development constructed 11 years ago. Long lease (988 years remaining), gated car park space + visitor’s parking, communal gardens, & corner balcony giving 180 degree views to the horizon. EPC B

Tunbridge Wells £195,000 One bedroom converted first floor flat in “village “area of the town, & close to the Pantiles.

Balcony on to Mount Sion. Priced to sell with no onward chain, & benefiting from a share of the Freehold. EPC E

bracketts.co.uk Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 | tunbridgewells@bracketts.co.uk

Tonbridge 01732 350503 | tonbridge@bracketts.co.uk

NORTH TONBRIDGE £480,000 IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR MORE SPACE AND A GREAT LOCATION then look no further…….. This 3 to 4 bedroom detached chalet style home provides versatile family accommodation in a sought after situation in north Tonbridge with 2 to 3 reception rooms, contemporary style kitchen, ground and first floor shower rooms plus ample parking, garage and delightful gardens all being offered For Sale with the benefit of NO ONWARD CHAIN! EPC: D (Apply Tonbridge)

LEIGH £780,000 SUPER FAMILY HOME IN FAVOURED VILLAGE Extended and enhanced by the current owners this 4 bedroom 1920s detached house offers stylish and attractive accommodation including superb dining/family room with double bi-fold doors to the delightful, large gardens, sitting room with feature fireplace and woodburning stove, contemporary kitchen including full range of integrated appliances, utility room, downstairs shower/cloakroom, study/snug and family bathroom to first floor. Brick paved driveway offering plenty of off road parking and generous secluded rear garden including garden sheds and workshop. EPC: C (Apply Tonbridge)

TUNBRIDGE WELLS £300,000 STUNNING VICTORIAN APARTMENT Situated in the popular St James’ area, this 2 bed ground floor property has been has been refurbished to a high standard throughout and oozes character alongside modern convenience. Accommodation comprises: entrance hall, 2 bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and sitting room, share of the rear garden. Share of freehold. Tunbridge Wells town centre and mainline stations are within walking distance. This gorgeous apartment would make a great first time buy, downsize or rental investment. EPC: D (Apply Pembury)

Residential Pembury: 01892 822880 Tonbridge: 01732 771616 Sales & Lettings e: pembury@bkea.co.uk e: tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

Lettings: 01732 771616 e: lettings@bkea.co.uk

www.bkestateagents.com

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Available to view 7 days a week 10am – 5pm Available to v Please call our great Tunbridge Wells branch 01892 966 to book your appointment •Alarm system Available to view 7supermarkets, days aneeds, week 10am supermarkets, pharmacies and greengrocers.

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This most of547 everything that theConnells modern family pharmacies and gre CROWBOROUGH TN6 3RB are due to be completed and available to move into in October, meaning that 547966 or email: tunbridgewells@connells.co.uk •10flurry year warranty activity peaks a month the ofown whether by road, flurry of activity peaks once a month during the ofNHBC whether it’sonce by road, rail, during air or flurry your activity two feet. peaksit’s once a mo Royal Tunbridge Wells a 50, 46 and 19 minute drive away respectively, and

Three Stunning Show Homes Three Three Stunning ShowStu H

30% OF PHASE ONE 30%NOW OF PHASE RESERVED ONE 30% NOW OF PHAS RES Prices from £415,000 Prices from £415,000

*terms and conditions apply. Visit www.helptobuy.gov.uk for more information

P

OF RESERVED PHASE 30% ONE OF NOW RE PHAS 30% OF PHASE ONE30% NOW

Connells, 5 Vale Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1BS •HELP TO BUY AVAILABLE* 2 ,3 and 4 bedroom high specification homes by award winning Riverdale Developments •HELP TO BUY AVAILABLE* Crowborough town centre is a hive| T: of 01892 activity.

Its 966town farmers’ market, where you Crowborough can handpick town some centre of is awhere hive of E: tunbridgewells@connells.co.uk 547 | W: connells.co.uk Crowborough centre is a hive of activity.

Its farmers’ market, yo •High quality specification Please call our Tunbridge Wells branch on 01892 547 966 to book your appointment •High quality specification high street caters for your everyday needs with a the freshest produce in the high whole street of caters East Sussex. for your everyday high street caters for your everyday needs with a the freshest produce in ne •Luxury kitchen with integrated appliances -local YOUR CHOICE OFth •Luxury integrated appliances - YOUR CHOICE OF SELECT KITCHEN •Luxury kitchen FINISHES with integra perfect mixkitchen of local with independent boutiques, high perfect mix of independent boutiq perfect mix of local independent boutiques, high •Allasflooring included throughout - positioned YOUR CHOICE OF •All flooring included - such YOUR CHOICE OF CARPETING AND AMTICO •All flooring FLOORING included street chains, major banks throughout and essentials Thebanks Nightingales is perfectly street major to make banks theCARPETIN andisthroug essentia street chains, major and essentials such as chains, The Nightingales perfec

Three Three Stunning ShowStu H Three Stunning Show Homes

SPELDHURST PLACE PRICES FROM £187,500 LAUNCH EVENT 7TH SEPTEMBER FROM 10AM TO 3PM A selection of spacious, well appointed one and two bedroom apartments with allocated parking, centrally situated close to local amenities in Southborough.

For more information please call our Southborough office 01892 511311 *Help to Buy is available in England on new homes up to £600,000. Terms and conditions apply.

KINGSDOWN MEADOW SHOW HOME OPEN EVENT Come and view Four Stunning Show Homes

SHOW HOME OPEN DATES: Thursday 5th September from 12pm until 8pm Friday 6th September from 10am until 6pm Saturday 7th September from 10am until 6pm Find us at: Kingsdown Meadow Residential Park, Romney Street, Knatts Valley, Sevenoaks, TN15 6XW

Visit serenityparks.co.uk for more information

Call us FREE on 0800 644 4499 to arrange your viewing

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

New Homes

Move

WITH THE

Times 39

Property Focus N E W H O M E S An eye-catching ‘breakthrough’ as a new village green comes to Tunbridge Wells THE latest stage in Dandara’s Knights Wood development on the edge of Tunbridge Wells gives it a ‘green heart’ following the unveiling of a stone sculpture on a newly opened village green.

There’s also a new children’s safe play area with top-of-the-range equipment.

Located in the centre of Knights Wood, which is off Longfield Road, The Green is accentuated by its striking focal point – a stone sculpture titled ‘Elemental’ by artist Jason Mulligan, who was selected following a design competition.

This intriguing structure, which shows a hole with a broken away piece lying beside it, follows the impressive water feature that was unveiled in Knights Wood’s ‘town square’ two years ago.

‘It was extremely important to us that The Green provided a focal point where residents can take a moment to relax and reflect’ Speaking about the launch of The Green, Dandara Sales Manager Kyle Fennell said: “Knights Wood really comes into its own during the summer, with residents able to enjoy life outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of Tunbridge Wells town centre.

“It was extremely important to us that The Green provided a focal point where residents can take a moment to relax and reflect. It’s also somewhere for kids to stretch their legs and play safely in the fresh air, without needing parents or carers to drive them there first.”

The opening comes hot on the heels of this summer’s launch of a series of new, contemporary-designed, four-bedroom Heritage home types which overlook The Green.

The Heritage house has been thoughtfully LATEST HOMES The new Heritage house type

ELEMENTAL The sculpture on the new green

crafted to suit its surroundings and is available as a semi-detached or detached property and boasts an integral garage.

The ground floor includes a spacious living room at the front of the property with a feature bay window, and an impressive kitchen/ dining room at the rear with high-specification appliances and bi-folding doors to the garden.

Plus a separate utility room and WC. The first floor comprises three double bedrooms and a single bedroom, with fitted wardrobes. There are two en-suites, plus a stylish family bathroom.

Speaking about the Heritage homes, Mr Fennell said: “This is a fantastic house type located in a truly prime position. Knights Wood is set within around 150 acres of mature, protected woodland and the future owners of the Heritage will also enjoy views over the tranquil village green.

“Designed to meet the demands of modern family life and with a genuine feeling of space, we expect the Heritage to prove one of our most popular properties yet.”

The detached or semi-detached Heritage house type is available to buy now, with prices from £560,000. The homes are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Other homes are also available, with apartments priced from £275,000 and houses from £360,000.

For more details, call 01892 800580 or visit knightswood.co.uk

Colebrook House 55 -57 Colebrook Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN4 9DP

Tunbridge Wells

£550,000

A unique opportunity to acquire an impressive, bespoke, detached family home finished to a high standard throughout, this is only the 2nd time on the market in 45 years.

Tunbridge Wells £189,000 Hunni Homes are delighted to offer this spacious top floor one double bedroom apartment offered with no onward chain and a share of the freehold.

Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £235,000 - £245,000 Beautifully presented 2 double bedroom 2nd floor apartment situated within walking distance of Tunbridge Wells train station.

**PRICE REDUCTION** Tunbridge Wells

Guide Price £300,000 - £325,000 Well presented 3 bedroom mid terrace family home situated within just a few minutes’ walk of High Brooms train station and perfect for a commuter or as a buy to let investment.

Guide Price £300,000 - £320,000 A stunning 2 bedroom terraced family home conveniently located within a short walk of High Brooms train station, local shops and amenities.

Tunbridge Wells

Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £320,000 - £335,000 A beautifully presented 3 bedroom family home situated in the heart of Pembury. The property also benefits from a garage to the rear. A viewing is highly recommended.

**PRICE REDUCTION**

Tunbridge Wells

Guide Price £180,000 - £190,000 A stunning 1 bedroom apartment situated in the heart of Southborough with outside space and parking. A viewing is highly recommended.

Paddock Wood Guide Price £300,000 - £325,000 Hunni Homes are delighted to offer this stunning 2 double bedroom semi detached home situated in the heart of the village of Paddock Wood and a short walk to the train station.

Tunbridge Wells

Guide Price £350,000 - £365,000 Fantastic opportunity to purchase this 2 bedroom semi detached property situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells in need of modernisation with no onward chain.

SBI Ltd SUPPLY AND INSTALL A RANGE OF CANOPIES THAT HAVE BEEN DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO ADD STYLE AND PRACTICALITY TO YOUR HOME.

Durable and attractive aluminium structures are available with a range of glazing or fabric covers, allowing you to choose the perfect structure for your setting and budget. SBI’s bespoke awnings are remote control, have LED lighting built into the arms, have a motion wind sensor and a manual override, fully loaded as standard. Any size up to 7m wide by 3.5m projection.

SBI Ltd established 1998 – Over 1000 satisfied customers – Members of the BBSA

CALL NOW 0800 0742 721 www.sbiproductsltd.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Life&Times

ARTS & CULTURE LIFE & STYLE FOOD & DRINK MOTORING SPORT and MORE...

IN PRINT AND ONLINE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK timeslocalnews.co.uk

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Armed for adventure

New travel book Page 45

BEWL DRAGONS READY TO R-OAR

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HOTEL’S AMAZING WINE AUCTION

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RIVETING HOMELAND ROAD TRIPS

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STEEL-PLATED FOR PROTECTION

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

‘Join the Army and see the world’ –

one Tunbridge Wells lad did just that!

LIFE IS AN ADVENTURE As Luke reveals in his book Travel Escapades: Adventures And Upsets Around The World

Former Skinners’ schoolboy Luke William Edwards developed a powerful wanderlust despite a near-fatal trip to the Himalayas – so he joined the Army for more travels and has now written a book about his global escapades…

Tell us a bit about your local background…

I grew up near High Brooms Station and went to St James’s Primary School before going to The Skinners’ School in 2005. I left having completed A levels in Maths, Biology and Geography.

I worked a couple of paper rounds before being hired by the Cotswold Outdoor retail company as a Saturday boy, as I had a passion for climbing, mountaineering and the outdoors.

So how did you end up in the Army?

I was part of the Scouts (eventually becoming an assistant leader) and the Skinners’ Combined Cadet Force aged 14-18, and through these interests I requested an interview with the Army careers advisor, who directed me to apply to be an officer.

I attended the Army Officer Selection Board and gained a Sixth Form Scholarship to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst at 16, when I was in Year 12.

I took a gap year working at Cotswold and went mountaineering in Nepal in January 2013, climbing a 6,019m peak,

almost dying and saving my mountain guide’s life (there are more details in one of the book’s chapters!)

My travels then took me to South-East Asia (Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos). It was these six months of travelling which sparked off my wanderlust. Since then I have travelled to over 65 other countries, bringing my total number of visited countries to 84.

In which countries have you served?

I commissioned into the Royal Logistic Corps in 2014, and my first posting was to Gütersloh in Germany, where I deployed straight to Canada on one of the Army’s largest training exercises.

I’ve been skiing in Austria, on exercise in Greece and deployed to Somalia in support of the United Nations [UN], training soldiers from the African Union

‘Since then I have travelled to over 65 other countries, bringing my total number of visited countries to 84’

MYANMAR Luke was captivated by the Far East

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Arts & Culture

‘I hope the book will inspire people to embark on their own travels’ beaten path’ places I describe.

Some of the stories, such as ‘A Steppe Too Far’ and ‘Panama Police’ tell of self-induced problems which I managed to wriggle out of. Some others, like ‘Ethiopian Pickpocket’, are small incidents which were relatively serious and slightly marred my travel experience in that particular country, and some, such as ‘Defying Death in the Himalayas’, are slightly ‘epic’ and could definitely have had serious alternative outcomes.

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Who is the book aimed at?

Secondary school age or older – the oldest known purchaser is 96! Also, anyone who wants to be inspired to travel; anyone who wants to be put off travelling forever; gap year students; people with an interest in travel, adventure and exploration; and armchair adventurers.

What is next for you?

I am off to Montenegro and Albania – two new countries. Plus there is a potential deployment to Cyprus as part of a UN peacekeeping mission.

And next year there is a plan to visit Cuba and Peru for my honeymoon!

Travel Escapades: Adventures and Upsets Around The World by Luke William Edwards is available to buy from all good online retailers priced £8.99 (e-book £3.11)

AFRICAN ODYSSEY Seeing cave paintings at Laas Geel in Somalia who were fighting Al-Shabaab, an Islamic insurgent group in East Africa with allegiances to Al-Qaeda.

At what point did you think: “I should write a travel book” and begin penning Travel Escapades: Adventures and Upsets Around The World?

During all of my travels I wrote a blog, which is more of an online diary of my experiences so in future I can remember them (lukeedwards.co.uk).

Writing a book was something I had an interest in for a couple of years, and with the available time I decided to expand on the ‘notes’ I put in my blog and create what has now been published.

In Somalia, there were few personal activities to fill your time with – other than exercising in a small gym – so I decided I would be productive with my time while deployed and wrote the book before breakfast and in the evenings, which were usually free.

Which bits will amuse, delight or fascinate people the most?

I hope the whole book will inspire people to embark on their own travels, even if they don’t go to some of the ‘off the

SEEING ALL Army officer Luke is enjoying his global deployments

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Going Out

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

goingout 7 days of activities

By Antonia McLennan

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

THURSDAY All aboard the Spa Valley Railway for the afternoon service from Tunbridge Wells to Eridge.

Watch as the glorious countryside goes by from the comfort of the beautifully decorated bar car, all while enjoying a wonderful cream tea on the train. Book at spavalleyrailway.co.uk Later, why not join in with the Tunbridge Wells Beer Weekend, which is back for its second year?

With a series of tap takeovers, talks, tastings and more, it’s not one to miss. The event is taking

WEDNESDAY Head on down to The Forum on Tunbridge Wells Common and support new music, as they showcase artists from the Kent and East Sussex area. This is Stable starts at 7pm, with tickets costing £5. For more information, visit twforum.co.uk MAID FOR THE SCREEN Live at Trinity Theatre and the Odeon

place at multiple venues in Tunbridge Wells, including The Pantiles Tap and Fuggles. For more information, visit: tunbridgewellsfoodmonth.co.uk FRIDAY Be transported to the Caribbean with a deliciously authentic gastronomic feast, as the team at Calypso Kitchen take over The Grove Café as part of Royal Tunbridge Wells Food Month.

Relax over the tropical tastes, and even try one of the signature rum cocktails on offer. To find out more, visit tunbridgewellsfoodmonth.co.uk

GETTING FIRED UP At the Bewl Water Dragon Boat Festival

Outstanding music in historic venues

SATURDAY Join the fun of the annual Bewl Water Dragon Boat Festival as crews of paddlers race in Chinesestyle dragon boats across a 250-metre course on the Lamberhurst reservoir. You can also explore

TONBRIDGE TALKS

A FESTIVAL OF THE ENVIRONMENT

15th-28th September 2019

Join us for a festival weekend of events to inspire, challenge and entertain on the theme of climate change, living sustainably and the effects on the natural world. We have brought together speakers, campaigners and performers so join us to listen, debate, explore and more.

For full details visit www.musicatmalling.com And from Was Down Swan Street, 72, The High Street, West Malling, ME19 6LU.

Box office and general enquiries: 0345 3191043 Thanks to

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Fresh Ideas with Beautiful Flowers

Two floors of beautiful gifts, furniture, jewellery, homeware and a large selection of

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Based in the beautiful village of West Malling in Kent.

Friday 4th – Sunday 6th October www.tonbridgetalks.com 01732 304241

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk TUESDAY As summer turns to autumn, Pashley Manor Gardens in Ticehurst are ablaze with colour and dazzling dahlias. You can also visit the café and shop.

Book tickets to Dahlia Days, which cost £11, at pashleymanorgardens.com Then in the evening head to the Odeon or Trinity Theatre to watch as Margaret Atwood’s highlyanticipated sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale, The Testaments, is revealed live on screen, straight from the London stage. Atwood will also be interviewed about her career and the return to her seminal story 34 years on.Book Margaret Atwood Live in Cinemas at odeon.co.uk or trinitytheatre.net

HOP ON OVER To Tunbridge Wells Beer Weekend the hustle and bustle of the marquees and stalls.

For more details, please visit bewlwater.co.uk Enjoy local produce, clothes and crafts in a lively atmosphere this weekend at the Pantiles Market. Then stop for a bite at one of the many surrounding restaurants and cafés. for more details, go to thepantiles.com/whats-on The English Symphony Orchestra returns to the Assembly Hall Theatre this evening for a thrilling programme with British violinist Nicola Benedetti.

Watch as she lights up the stage with romantic musical favourites from Elgar and Brahms.

The event starts at 7.30pm, with ticket prices ranging from £10 to £25. To book, please visit assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk SUNDAY Trinity Theatre is screening Apollo 11 tonight.

Go straight to the heart of the incredible event

50 years on as it unfolds on the big screen. With newly discovered footage and recordings, it’s certain to be out of this world! Screenings are at 5pm and 8pm. Book online at trinitytheatre.net MONDAY Watch an ‘Encore’ rerun of the critically-acclaimed play The Lehman Trilogy, originally broadcast live from the National Theatre. The Kino Digital Cinema in Hawkhurst and The Picture House Cinema in Uckfield are screening the story of a family that changed the world, told in three parts on a single evening. (The play is also being screened at the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge on Thursday night and Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on Saturday night).

To book for this evening’s 7pm screenings in Hawkhurst and Uckfield, visit kinodigital.co.uk or picturehouseuckfield.com

PICK OF THE WEEK: Contemporary Craft Fair Thursday to Sunday Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge This modern craft and design fair, organised by Craft in Focus, exhibits 120 UK artists and designers. Spend the day checking out the finest British talent, with live music, then head to the castle eateries to enjoy some delicious cake or ice cream.

See hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on

Going Out

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CROWD PLEASER The Pantiles Market

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Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Keyboardist hopes she has the M-Factor Local musicians aim to win big in a battle of the bands this weekend, as Antonia McLennan finds out when she talks to Tonbridge singer and keyboard player Kirsty Davis, who has her eye on the prize

U

P-AND-COMING local bands will be taking to the stage at Bewl Water this Sunday [September 8] to battle it out for the chance to win a grand prize of £1,000.

The five lucky performers chosen to play at the

competition, known as M-Factor, will go headto-head to impress a 4,000-strong audience, who will be encouraged to take part in the judging.

Four bands are hoping to take home the cash prize this weekend, including Maidstone’s alternative rock outfit, White Heat, Kent-based

ROCKIN’ ALL OVER THE WORLD Rick Parfitt Jnr’s band

indie rockers Suncharmer and Maidstone rockers Best Intentions.

Another artist hoping to hit the big time at the contest is keyboard soloist Kirsty Davis from Tonbridge, who said that winning the prize money would give her the opportunity to upgrade her musical equipment.

She said: “The keyboard I play is the original one I started learning on 11 years ago, so I feel like it deserves an upgrade.

“This will help me to be able to record higher quality music and extend my outreach further.”

She continued: “My dream is to be successful

She continued: “From then, I completed classical singing exams and started learning the piano at ten years old and taught myself how to convert basic chords in music books, and then later online into my own versions of songs I liked.”

Local musician, promoter and Times music columnist Paul Dunton said that the competition was a ‘fantastic opportunity’ for up-and-coming bands to perform and get noticed.

The lucky winner of the competition will be awarded their cash prize of £1,000 by the RPJ Band [the Rick Parfitt Jnr Band], which is headlining the invitation-only event at Bewl Water next week.

‘I would love to be driving along Rick, the son of the late Status one day and hear my own music Quo legend of the same name, has performed with his bandmates playing alongside the artists Jo Webb, Alex Toff and Shannon that I love’ Harris in front of over a million people across the world, as well as touring and performing with enough to be signed to a record big industry names such as ELO, label and have my music played Take That and Wheatus. on the radio.

M-Factor is being staged “I would love to be driving along by the Markerstudy one day and hear my own music Group and will see playing alongside the artists that local artists and bands I love.” perform in front of Kirsty added that she has had a Markerstudy staff, love of the performing arts since friends and partners. the age of three.

The competition is “I was involved in dancing in the taking place on the dance school run by my nan and same weekend as Bewl mum, which led me to being involved Water’s annual Dragon in performances in singing and Boat Festival. drama,” she explained.

Kirsty Davis

Tunbridge Wells Carvery Book now for 15th September Adults - £13.50 Children - £8.50

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food

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BOTTLED UP James McComas, General Manager of the Hotel du Vin

Food & Drink FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

The ‘wine of a lifetime’ is about to go under the hotel’s hammer Wine lovers have a chance this month to get a taste of some of the finest bottles in town, and at the same time help good causes, at The Hotel du Vin…

T

HE Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells is staging a silent online charity auction to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their brand. Naturally, we just had to find out what’s on offer. So what is it that makes a wine worth several hundred pounds, or in the case of the Montrachet Domaine des Comtes Lafon 2006, which is in the auction, worth more than £1,500?

“It’s a combination of the pedigree of the winery, the terroir, the grapes themselves and how they are cultivated and vinified – which all adds up to how it appeals to all our senses.

Not just how the wine tastes, but how it looks, smells and how it feels in the mouth,” explains James McComas, the General Manager of the Grade-II listed hotel in Crescent Road.

The Montrachet Domaine des Comtes Lafon is one of three valuable wines going under the hammer in the charity auction.

And another 12 bottles valued at up to £350 are also being raffled by the hotel.

“The Montrachet Domaine des Comtes Lafon 2006 really is a wine of a lifetime,” adds James. “There are very few bottles available, which has helped push the off-premise market price to £1,705, but it’s much more than the rarity of the wine that explains its value.

“One hundred per cent Chardonnay, it’s

an exemplar of Burgundy Grand Cru viticulture and oenology, which means it’s recognised as being a wine of the most superior grade,” says James, whose career in hospitality has seen him work in four continents, including five years in the heart of New Zealand’s Marlborough and Central Otago wine regions.

“The winery of Domaine des Comtes Lafon has the deepest and coldest cellars in Burgundy, and they nurture some of the greatest dry white wines of the region. Dominique Lafon has been at the helm since 1984 and has continued creating wines of astonishing depth and complexity, yet supremely balanced as well,” adds Hotel du Vin Head Sommelier Roberto Zanca, a semi-finalist at the Moët UK Sommelier of the Year Awards.

All wines receive an aggregated critic score from noted wine critics around the world, and this wine scored 94/100, being described by the influential Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate as ‘somehow both statuesque and at the same time ethereal and cloud like’.

Also available in the silent auction is a bottle of Chateau Mouton Rothschild 1995, which has seen its market value increase fivefold since it was bottled, to around £700.

“Chateau Mouton Rothschild is one of TOP BUY: ‘The Montrachet Domaine des Comtes Lafon 2006 really is a wine of a lifetime’

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

CHATEAU MOUTON ROTHSCHILD: One of the world’s famous wineries Bordeaux’s finest producers and one of the most famous wineries in the world, with the hillside vineyard densely planted on very deep, gravelly soil,” says Roberto.

“The proportions of the grapes used varies with each vintage, creating a unique character which is reflected in the specially commissioned labels for each year,” says James.

“The 1995 vintage is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, providing rich tannins, while the 14% Merlot lends suppleness and roundness, finished with 1% Petit Franc.”

The market value reflects the average critic score of 95/100 and its Premier Cru (First Growth) status. “It’s a multidimensional wine, one of the biggest, richest from the Medoc, that will keep well for the next 30 odd years,” comments Roberto.

The final bottle in the silent auction has been described by wine critic Antonio Galloni as ‘a wine of kaleidoscopic personality sure to leave Champagne lovers weak at the knees’.

The magnum of Louis Roederer Cristal 1989 also has an aggregated critic score of 95/100.

“Louis Roederer built his reputation by buying and personally nurturing his grand-cru vineyards, in stark contrast to his contemporaries in the 19th century, who relied on bought-in grapes,” says James. “It was a strategy that paid off, with the House of Louis Roederer becoming one of the most famed and sought after in the world.”

‘Proceeds from the silent auction and raffle will be split between Hospitality Action and Crowborough-based Taylor Made Dreams’ “Cristal was first created in 1876 as a special high-end cuvée for Russian Tsar Alexander II. It’s one of the Champagne region’s most iconic wines and Roederer’s flagship,” adds Roberto.

“As an exclusively vintage Champagne, it guarantees the highest quality fruit and a captivating flavour as a result.”

If you’re not successful in the silent auction for these stellar wines, you could try your chance at winning one of 12 bottles of wine, each worth up to £350 at list price, with a £20 raffle ticket. The raffle includes Vieux Chateau Certan 2001 (Pomerol), Graham’s 40-year Port, Krug Grand Cuvée NV Champagne, Vega Sicilia Unico, 2003 (Ribero del Duero), Vérité

la Joie, 2003 (Sonoma, California) and Vérité le Desir, 2004 (Sonoma, California).

Proceeds from the silent auction and raffle will be split between Hospitality Action and Crowborough-based Taylor Made Dreams, with the three winning bidders in the auction also receiving dinner for two at the hotel.

“Hospitality Action helps people in the hospitality sector with mental health issues, physical illness or financial difficulties, while Taylor Made Dreams is a wonderful local charity that makes dreams come true for children with life-limiting illnesses.

They are both amazing charities and we hope wine lovers in and around Tunbridge Wells will help us support them by digging deep for our auction and raffle,” urges James.

The auction and the raffle run to September 29.

Tickets for the raffle can be purchased in the hotel, where you can also view all the wines.

You can also bid in the auction at the hotel, or go online to 32auctions.com/ ROEDERER CRISTAL hdv25 Created for Russian Tsar

Going Green for ‘Organic September’ Times Drinks Editor James Viner toasts Mother Nature with three great wines to celebrate The Soil Association’s ‘Organic September’ campaign 1) BUZZING ITALIAN VEGAN-FRIENDLY ORGANIC BUBBLY TO POP FOR AN APERITIF Organic Grillo Spumante Brut NV, Sicily, Italy (£6.99, Aldi, Alc 12.5%) For those looking for something different to Prosecco, this is the drier and fresher alternative. Branch out with this tasty, crowd-pleasing, bonedry tank-method Italian party fizz from the Sicilian Grillo grape with its nectarine, tangy lemon, melon and floral Mediterranean pizzazz. Rushing up to greet you, and remaining friendly throughout, this drinks well on its own or with fritto misto, fish and chips and light seafood dishes. Get it.

2) TIP-TOP, TEXTURALLY SATISFYING, GASTRONOMIC ORGANIC WHITE 2016 Bründlmayer Langenloiser BergVogelsang Grüner Veltliner, Kamptal, Austria (£17.99, Waitrose, Alc 12.5%) Organic or biodynamic systems are big in Austria: Around ten per cent of growers are certified, and many more farm with these techniques.

The country’s signature white grape makes crackly wine that has acidic vim without being overtly fruity.

This one hums along, with bright and precise riffs of white pepper, anise, stone and green fruits. Drink as a dry aperitif white, or serve well chilled with seafood (especially sushi/sashimi), fondue, roast pork/veal, beurre blanc with fish, smoked salmon/trout, cold meats or Wiener Schnitzel. Prost!

tannins on the finish. Winner of the IWC Fairtrade Award 2019. Tip it into a jug for ten minutes before drinking. You daren’t resist the irresistible! Ideal for any September barbecues.

Find out more by following #OrganicSeptember and James @QuixoticWine on Twitter 3) MUST-TRY ORGANIC/FAIRTRADE ARGENTINE RED 2017 Co-op Fairtrade Irresistible Malbec, Famatina Valley, La Rioja, Argentina (£7.50, Co-op, Alc 13%) If you are a Malbec fan looking for an organic step up from the usual identikit then try this juicy, heart-warming bargain red produced by the brilliant La Riojana Cooperativa. It’s all here – the damson skins, red plums, cocoa, liquorice and scent of sweet tobacco and raspberry leaf, along with integrated oak and a pleasing airbrush of medium

10 ORGANICALLY CERTIFIED PRODUCERS TO WATCH Do your bit for the environment this ‘Organic September’ by drinking some great wines that are also certified organic. Additionally, the use of reduced levels of permitted added sulphites in these wines may well help with possible hangovers.

ENGLAND: 1. Davenport Vineyards, Kent/East Sussex 2. Oxney Organic Estate, East Sussex

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FRANCE: 3. Domaine Zind Humbrecht, Alsace

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4. Château Latour, Pauillac, Bordeaux (from 2018) 5. Domaine de la Vougeraie, Côte d’Or, Burgundy 6. Domaine Yannick Amirault, Loire ITALY: 7. Arianna Occhipinti, Sicily 8. Emidio Pepe, Abruzzo ‘NEW WORLD’: 9. Felton Road, Central Otago, New Zealand 10. Tablas Creek’s blends, Paso Robles, California, USA

Food & Drink

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Last summer, Kate and Andres launched Galapagos, bringing authentic and original South American dining to South East England. Based at the 15th century Old Vine in Cousley Wood, near Wadhurst, the restaurant provides a distinctive dining opportunity in the area. In this article, we hear more about their aims and ambitions for the restaurant and what you can expect when you visit.

Since we opened, our sole aim has always been to offer highquality seasonal menus made from exceptional ingredients that are skilfully prepared, built on generations of the culinary traditions of Latin America. We want to provide a unique dining experience in Kent, Sussex and the High Weald alongside good value, excellent service and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

We endeavour to ensure all aspects of the seasonal dishes are homemade from quality specialist ingredients sourced from suppliers who are experts in their field. These range from the sauces and stock that form the basis of the soups, stews and accompaniments right through to the desserts.

Argentinian beef is a cornerstone of the menu and this flavoursome and succulent meat is imported via suppliers at London Smithfield meat market.

To obtain the exotic fruit and vegetables Andres makes a weekly trip to Spitalfields Fruit and Vegetable markets where he sources the raw ingredients that make the dishes so tasty and diverse. Calling at Billingsgate Fish Market on the way back Andres can hand select the best fish available.

We’re driven by using fresh and authentic ingredients at all times and our specials menu changes weekly to reflect this and the wide range of dishes that South America has to offer.

All allergies and dietary requirements are catered for, please ask us or your waiter / waitress and they will be happy to talk through the many and varied options open to you on the menus.

We hold regular events, such as wine tasting and local walks, and run ongoing offers. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the latest deals and check out the What’s On page on our website here: https://galapagosrestaurant.co.uk/whats-on.

Our current focus is on preparations for the Christmas and New Year celebrations….it’s never too early to start planning that perfect family Xmas and where better to celebrate than here at Galapagos @ the Old Vine.

Whether you want a venue for that special pre-Xmas party, or an authentic and sumptuous four course feast join us in our warm and welcoming surroundings for a day to remember.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Galapagos very soon.

Kate and Andres.

“Love it, especially the grilled octopus with olive sauce” Rosemary Shrager – The Daily Telegraph, Saturday 16 March 2019 Galapagos, The Old Vine, Cousley Wood, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN5 6ER 01892 782 271 | info@galapagos-restaurant.co.uk

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Books

The bookcase…

This week’s bookcase includes reviews of The Man Who Saw Everything by Deborah Levy and Never Enough by Judith Grisel

BOOK OF THE WEEK

The Man Who Saw Everything

by Deborah Levy

Published in hardback by Hamish Hamilton, priced £14.99 (ebook £9.99)

8.5/10

Hot Milk author Deborah Levy’s latest novel takes a much too beautiful man and spins him through the washing machine of life, spitting out chunks of history, memory and love from across time as it goes. Historian Saul Adler is crossing Abbey Road when he’s hit by a car – a moment that ricochets throughout his existence. We see him collect lovers, explore East Germany before the Wall comes down, and struggle to connect with his father as memory plays tricks and trauma disturbs recollections. The writing is mesmeric, and while the plot is discombobulating at times, it’s also arresting and enigmatic (however frustrating and infuriating Saul can be). The Man Who Saw Everything may divide opinion, but it twists inside you and won’t be forgotten.

(Review by Ella Walker)

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

Shelf Life

by Livia Franchini

Published in hardback by Doubleday, priced £12.99 (ebook £7.99)

8/10

Shelf Life is the debut novel from Londonbased, Tuscany-born, author Livia Franchini, which begins with the end of Ruth and Neil’s ten-year relationship. Franchini uses their final shopping list together to tell the story of the demise of their union, with the help of teenage chatroom logs and wildly inappropriate emails to colleagues. Ruth, the central character, is a complex and vulnerable 30-year-old nurse, who viscerally articulates her heartache.

It is impossible not to be moved as she plainly explains the intricacies of her failed relationship and everything that led her to this point. Franchini’s writing isn’t overblown, sentimental or pretentious, it is a modern story told in a modern way, which both refreshed and excited me.

(Review by Frances Wright)

6/10

What Happens Now?

by Sophia Money-Coutts

Published in hardback by HQ, priced £12.99 (ebook £5.99) The second book from journalist turned novelist Sophia Money-Coutts is a fun fairy tale for the Tinder generation.

Schoolteacher Lil cannot believe her luck when she matches with handsome aristocratic mountaineer Max after reluctantly trying a dating site, following the abrupt departure of her long-term boyfriend. A few drinks turns into a night of passion and Lil finds herself pregnant by a man she barely knows and who hasn’t even replied to her WhatsApp message. What follows is an enjoyable tale that rattles along nicely thanks to a likeable ensemble of characters, including Lil’s best friend Jess, mum Jackie and stepfather Dennis. The sex scenes are well written – realistic with just the right amount of dreamy fantasy – and Lil’s job teaching the sons of the rich and famous provides some lighthearted entertainment. It’s a hefty 400-page book, but a lot of fun, easy to read and perfect for a bit of escapism.

(Review by Beverley Rouse)

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

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

8/10

Never Enough

by Judith Grisel

Published in paperback

by Scribe, priced £9.99 (ebook £7.66)

If you want to know why the drugs don’t work (or at least not for long), this is one for you. It seems that if addictive drugs are defined by their ability to act on the part of the brain that controls the reward-seeking chemical dopamine, addiction is driven by the body’s ability to counteract the effects of the various stimulants, sedatives or psychedelics, legal CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW

White Fox

by Chen Jiatong

Published in paperback by Chicken House, priced £6.99 The worlds of people and animals collide in this tale of Dilah – a brave Arctic fox on a quest to find a secret treasure that could turn him into a human – who ends up facing peril from every direction. Hunters, other foxes, snow leopards, even horses pose a threat in this coming-ofage tale, although Harry Potter fans aged 11 to 13 will probably enjoy Dilah’s strong friendships and delight in the dangerous scenarios. Jiatong’s descriptive and reflective prose style is supported by Viola Wang’s beautiful illustrations, yet the plot never slows. In fact, for a children’s novel, White Fox is surprisingly violent, with

Books

or illegal, that we might throw at it. Judith Grisel is a former addict who is now an experienced behavioral neuroscientist, so she not only knows of what she speaks, but is also able to communicate some fairly complex brain science clearly and engagingly. With relapse rates for addicts as high as 90 per cent, however, unfortunately we are still some way from being able to outwit our own brains when it comes to drugs. The solution, Grisel suggests, lies in the context in which those brains operate: The wider social world.

(Review by Lucy Whetman) four deaths in the first three chapters – but it is already a bestseller in China. This is an enjoyable translation, with only the odd word – ‘Cripes!’ – to jar the telling. There’s a cliffhanger ending but don’t worry – the sequel is also being translated.

(Review by Natalie Bowen)

8/10

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55

BOOK CHARTS HARDBACKS 1. Veg: Easy and Delicious Meals for Everyone by Jamie Oliver 2. The World’s Worst Teachers

by David Walliams 3. Tidelands by Philippa Gregory 4. Pinch of Nom: 100 Slimming, Home-style Recipes by Catherine Allinson, Kate Allinson, and Kay Featherstone 5. Dog Man 7: For Whom the Ball Rolls

by Dav Pilkey 6. The Girl Who Lived Twice

by David Lagercrantz 7. Perfect Sound Whatever by James Acaster 8. Three Women by Lisa Taddeo 9. The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)

by Philippa Perry 10. Time to Eat: Delicious Meals for busy lives by Nadiya Hussain PAPERBACKS 1. The Last by Hanna Jameson 2. The Confessions of Frannie Langton

by Sara Collins 3. No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference

by Greta Thunberg 4. The Land of Roar by Jenny McLachlan 5. Normal People by Sally Rooney 6. Seashaken Houses: A Lighthouse History from Eddystone to Fastnet by Tom Nancollas 7. This is Going to Hurt: Secret Diaries of a Junior Doctor by Adam Kay 8. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty 9. An American Marriage by Tayari Jones 10. The Tattooist of Auschwitz

by Heather Morris (Compiled by Waterstones)

Life&Times

Travel

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

5 world-class drives for exploring spectacular scenery close to home Who needs Route 66 when you’ve got these epic rides in the UK and Ireland?

GORGE YOURSELF A winding road through the Cheddar Gorge

O

N THE right roads, driving becomes much more than a mode of transit. Rather than racing to get somewhere, you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

In the absence of spluttering exhaust fumes, honking horns and agitated drivers, being behind the wheel is a pleasant experience and the sense of freedom found cruising along a scenic open road is unparalleled.

Our planet is full of iconic road journeys, but many recommended rides are actually on or around the British isles.

Discover what’s on your doorstep by giving these five top routes a test drive…

IMAGES: PA Photo/iStock

travel

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1. NORTH COAST 500, SCOTLAND Length: 516 miles Estimated time: Three days to drive/ one week to explore A slightly chillier counterpart to California’s Route 66, The North Coast 500 in Scotland cruises around the country’s striking northern coastline.

Beginning in Inverness, road trippers will find historic architecture, the odd gin distillery, and perhaps even the Loch Ness monster.

The Black Isle is another must-see location en route – famed for its popular food and drink, it’s also one of the best spots for dolphin spotting.

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

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Travel

THE WILD WEST The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland’s County Clare

2. ATLANTIC HIGHWAY, WEST COUNTRY Length: 200 miles Estimated time: Six hours to drive/ four days to explore Also known as the A39, this road stretches all the way from the Devon border into the northeastern corner of Cornwall, taking in some of the South-West’s prettiest traditional fishing villages.

Stretch legs by stopping off at one of the route’s impressive coastal retreats – from Bude, a triple winner in the British Travel Awards,

HIGHLIGHT The Bealach na Ba viewpoint on Applecross peninsula in the Scottish Higlands

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57

A TIDAL TREAT Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island

to historic parish Tintagel, known for its connections with the legend of King Arthur.

3. CHEDDAR GORGE, SOMERSET Length: 30 miles (round trip) Estimated time: 45 minutes/ one day to explore Described by some as a greener UK equivalent of the Grand Canyon, the Cheddar Gorge is the perfect destination for keen explorers.

Britain’s largest gorge is made up of dramatic

peaks and historic caves – with the latter holding fascinating secrets about our prehistoric ancestors.

Before arriving at your destination, visitors can cruise through acres of English countryside, before arriving in the Somerset’s scenic Mendip Hills, where the gorge is located.

4. CASTLE TO CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND Length: 26 miles Estimated time: One hour/one day to explore Combining three castles in one trip, this route is a history boffin’s dream.

Beginning near the coast at stunning Alnwick Castle, of Harry Potter film fame, follow the road northwards, past sandy beaches, rolling hills and rugged moorland, to Bamburgh Castle, before finishing at Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island.

This route is just 26 miles long, but with so many things to see and do along the way you will have more than a day’s worth of activities to choose from.

5. THE CAUSEWAY COAST ROUTE, IRELAND Length: 120 miles Estimated journey time: One day to drive/ Three days to explore Studded with beaches, gorse-covered valleys and clifftop paths edged with fuchsia, Northern Ireland’s epic landscape is a joy to explore by car.

This route merges with the Wild Atlantic Way, which runs through both Northern Ireland and Eire, and the Mourne Scenic Route, covering a landscape that varies from coast and mountaintops to busy cities and sleep hamlets.

It is ideal for anyone looking to pack as much into a holiday on our shores as possible.

HOW TO GET THERE The website rentalcars.com is a leading go-to expert for car rental advice worldwide, arranging car rental in 60,000 locations across 160 countries.

Book through rentalcars.com

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Motoring

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Motoring News

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

This week…  Steel-plated BMW  Unnecessary fines  Cheap cars axed

Suzuki axes UK sales of Celerio and Baleno

Armoured car to protect against guns and explosions is unveiled BMW has revealed an armoured version of its X5 SUV, designed to offer the utmost protection for its occupants.

Capable of offering protection against explosives and firearms, the X5 Protection VR6 is clad with steel armour plating which has been overlapped to help minimise the number of weak points across the body.

BMW claims the armoured X5 is capable of withstanding AK-47 fire, and can protect occupants from explosions of up to 15kg from a distance of four metres.

The engine and powertrain in general is protected from explosives thanks to an aluminium splinter shield, while the window glass has been replaced 33mm thick polycarbonate-reinforced glass. Only the driver’s window is electric as standard.

Underneath the bonnet sits a 4.4-litre twinturbocharged V8 engine that develops 523bhp.

It is the same

as you’ll find in the rangetopping X5 M50i and X7 M50i passengers cars.

Though mechanical changes for the armoured X5 are few and far between, the petrol tank has been upgraded to a self-sealing unit – it can automatically close in the event of a puncture.

Inside, the interior is similar to that of a regular X5.

However, it has been beefed up in some key areas to help lift its security levels. The luggage compartment partition is armoured, increasing the amount of protection for rear seat passengers, for instance.

BMW hasn’t announced how much the X5 Protection VR6 will cost as yet.

STEELY The X5

Unclear loading bay rules cost businesses thousands in fines UK VAN drivers have been hit by loading bay fines worth more than £1.7million in the past three years, costing businesses thousands of pounds.

Research by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has found that councils have issued an average of 13,000 parking fines per year since 2015, with numbers increasing by about ten% each year.

It says this is because rules around loading bays are becoming increasingly unclear for van drivers, further demonstrated by the fact that it found 23% of appeals against penalty charge notices [PCNs] for incorrect use of a loading bay were successful.

Research was gathered from a Freedom of Information request using data from 45 out of 51 UK councils that were contacted.

The rules state that in the majority of

loading bays, vans can be used to collect pre-ordered goods that require a vehicle to transport them, and if the vehicle must be left unattended it must be made clear that goods are in the process of being loaded or unloaded.

Drivers often get caught out when using loading bays to wait for parking spaces to become available, drop off or pick up passengers, or stop for other reasons without loading or unloading goods.

Sarah Cox, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “As this research reveals, PCNs are costing businesses thousands of pounds a year when, in fact, they can be avoided completely if you understand the rules correctly.”

And she warned drivers: “It is crucial that you check before you park.”

SUZUKI has dropped two of its cheapest cars – the Celerio and the Baleno – from its UK range as part of an overall revamp of its passenger car line-up.

A spokesperson has announced that no new, unregistered cars will be available to buy from this month.

Suzuki says it is ‘refocusing its model range to cater for the high popularity of its best-selling UK models’.

This refers to models such as the Ignis, Swift, S-Cross and Vitara.

The firm added: “This has resulted in sales of Celerio and Baleno being discontinued for the UK only. Suzuki is also preparing its range for future emission regulations in 2020, of which details will be confirmed and announced in the future.”

The pair never managed to trouble rivals such as the Honda Jazz and Skoda Citigo for outright sales, with 15,000 Balenos registered across Europe in 2018, compared with 37,000 Jazz registrations.

Some 21,000 Celerios were registered in 2018. However, this was more than eclipsed by other models – and even other cars in Suzuki’s range.

Around 55,000 Swifts were registered in 2018, for example.

Recruiting Now

Set in beautiful countryside, just a ten minute drive from the town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate represents the true beauty of Kent itself. It combines a picturesque setting with comprehensive conferencing facilities, fabulous function rooms and one of the best and most affordable wedding venues in Tunbridge Wells. Salomons Estate offers quality accommodation and luxury bedrooms in addition to Salomons Pub & Dining Rooms; an eclectic pub/restaurant offering the best in locally-sourced produce where possible.

We are looking for passionate individuals to provide our guests and clients with an unforgettable experience.

Available positions in Salomons Estate: Restaurant and Conferencing Supervisor Housekeeper Reservations Coordinator

One Warwick Park Hotel Composed of thirty nine rooms and suites and a range of entertainment spaces, One Warwick Park Hotel brings a luxury guest experience to the historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells’ in Kent.

Right next to the famous Pantiles area and only a few minutes from Tunbridge Wells train station, the hotel is perfectly located for enjoying all the activities that this beautiful Kentish town and its surrounding countryside has to offer.

Guests can expect a personalised welcome, knowledgeable and well-presented staff, a perfect setting for dining and unwinding in our restaurant and bar, multi-purpose event spaces for weddings and conferences, a unique underground art gallery, and bedrooms where relaxation and style are the priorities.

We are looking for enthusiastic personalities to provide an exceptional customer experience for our guests.

Available positions in One Warwick Park Hotel: Receptionist Concierge Housekeeper Housekeeping Supervisor Reservations Coordinator

SEVENTEEN Restaurant at One Warwick Park We are looking for talented individuals to join the team at SEVENTEEN Restaurant at One Warwick Park.

We take British dishes and ingredients and revitalise them using flavours and influences from around the world, modern cooking techniques and seasonality and presentation.

With the restaurant sourcing local produce, our menu is driven by the freshest and most seasonal ingredients, which can be enjoyed in our elegant restaurant featuring a stunning double height glass atrium - eating at SEVENTEEN will always be a pleasure.

Available positions within SEVENTEEN Restaurant Sous Chef Junior Sous Chef Chef de Partie Commis Chef F&B Assistant Kitchen Porter

To find out more, please visit our careers page at http://www.markerstudygroup.com/careers or contact us on: Email address: TalentAcquisition@markerstudy.com Telephone: 01892 553384

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Recruitment

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

WITH THE

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Fill your vacancy now in print or online

From just £99 For more information contact our commercial team on 01892 779650

CLAYGATE HEATING & RENEWABLES LTD IS RECRUITING! 2 Vacancies for Qualified and Experienced Heating & Plumbing Engineers, Kent & Sussex area Must be: • GasSafe registered • OFTEC registered • Commercially qualified (preferred but not essential) You will be able to: • Carry out installation and servicing work in all types of properties • Work on your own initiative and manage your own day to day workload • Be accountable, and a good communicator • Be enthusiastic, and a team player • Competently complete all necessary paperwork • Successfully complete a 3-month trial period Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Sept/Oct 2019 start date preferable.

For an application form, please call Claygate on 01892 730 620 or email: office@claygate.net

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LICENSING ACT 2003

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

6

20 7

7

Y

22

Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

PUBLIC NOTICE

1 3 2 8 2 7 5 1 2 8 9 1 4 5 8 9 3 5 4 7 1 6 4 8 2 6 1 5 4

4

3 4

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17 1

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Codeword:

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

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DIFFICULTY RATING:★★★★

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★✩✩✩

CLASSIFIEDS

Life&Times

Puzzles

In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply.

Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.

Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue

J A C O B E A N S T E P

U A N U N A M O O R S A I R O T E N C H F E R X E WE A Y U S E I Z E D S O R OO N K R E I L E A S I N

D E R P I N M E O MA R T I I T R O E T U S R C V E B OO Q N U S E R S I N U I N G D OM E I E G S T A R

Sudoku:

1 6 9 7 4 8 3 2 5

3 2 8 6 5 9 4 1 7

5 4 7 3 2 1 9 8 6

2 7 4 5 8 6 1 3 9

9 5 6 1 3 2 8 7 4

8 1 3 9 7 4 5 6 2

4 3 2 8 9 7 6 5 1

7 8 1 4 6 5 2 9 3

6 9 5 2 1 3 7 4 8

1 3 8 9 4 5 2 6 7

7 9 6 1 3 4 5 2 8

5 7 2 8 9 3 6 1 4

3 4 7 2 8 9 1 5 6

9 8 4 6 2 1 7 3 5

Jigsaw Sudoku:

6 5 9 4 7 2 3 8 1

2 1 5 7 6 8 9 4 3

8 6 3 5 1 7 4 9 2

4 2 1 3 5 6 8 7 9

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003

An application has been made by: Sean Marlowe for the premises known as Marlowe’s 102 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2UN On the date of: 28 August 2019 Summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening:

Notice is hereby given that Edric Leeper of Flat 34 Waterway House, Medway Wharf Road, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1AY has applied to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council for the GRANT of sale of alcohol for the premises 65mm Coffee situated at (Gilbert House, River Walk, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1DT

Supply of alcohol Monday - Sunday 12.00 until 23.00 Christmas Eve & New Years Eve 12.00 until 00.00 Late Night Refreshment Christmas Eve & New Years Eve 23.00 until 00.00 Any person wishing to view details of an application may contact the Licensing Partnership on 01732 227004 Any person wishing to make representation about the application should make them in writing on or before the : 11th September 2019 Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is £5000.

Any person wishing to submit representations about the proposals should make them in writing to: Licensing Services, Gibson Drive, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent ME19 4LZ giving in detail the grounds of objection by 30/09/2019 It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary of conviction for the offence is £5000.

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

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Sport

FORsports EVENstories MORE to: NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Wednesday September 4 | 2019 Please send newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Williams brothers hit tons to destroy Bickley Tunbridge Wells 324-7 beat Bickley 150 by 174 runs The cunning spin of Adeel Malik picked up a couple of quick wickets but Alex Williams joined his brother and together they put on a coruscating stand of 155 in 25 overs.

Alex went on to his own century, scoring 111 off just 98 balls with 11 fours and four sixes. It was the first time that both brothers reached three figures in the same league innings.

Dave Smith hit a rapid 24 not out as the visitors posted an imposing total of 324 for 7, before young Barker announced himself with his customary shock start.

He followed up with two more victims as Bickley reeled on 32 for 3. Home captain Daniel Magin (32) and Mike Ridley (31) put up some resistance.

But another youthful paceman, Isaac Bepey,

By Alan Cutts CRICKET THE Williams brothers both scored league centuries for the first time as Tunbridge Wells beat their in-form hosts Bickley Park in the Kent League Premier Division.

Young pace bowler Matt Barker recorded a second consecutive five-wicket haul and, remarkably, took a wicket with the first ball of his spell for the third time in four matches.

Visiting captain Chris Williams won the toss and chose to bat first, and he led by example as he crashed 112 from 105 deliveries with 14 fours and a six. He and Sam Stickler (30) produced a rousing first-wicket partnership of 91 from 15 overs

picked up 2 for 31. Barker returned with two wickets in two balls to end with excellent figures of 5 for 23 as Bickley were all out for 150.

The 174-run victory was a welcome return to form for Wells after two defeats on the bounce put paid to their title hopes, and they remain fourth in the table Relegation-threatened Canterbury visit the Nevill for the final league game on Saturday (September 7).

SUSSEX LEAGUE PROMOTIONS Tunbridge Wells Third and Fourth XIs both topped their Sussex Leagues to earn promotion; for the thirds it was their first since 2007, achieved under the guidance of new captain Amos Kemp.

Angels make their point in tale of two penalties Tonbridge Angels 1 Weymouth 1

By Jim Rowe

Response A minute before half-time, Angels playmaker D’Sean Theobalds ran from deep in his own half and slipped the ball wide to Joe Turner, whose curling effort flew just clear of the angle of post and bar.

The second period was just three minutes old when Odubade crossed from the right and Brett Williams put the Terras in front.

There followed an immediate response from Tonbridge with efforts from Rian Bray and Turner before Angels were awarded a hotly disputed penalty in the 59th minute.

After a dispute about who would take it, Turner’s kick was brilliantly saved by Callum Ward as the arguments carried on around the

PHOTO: David Couldridge

FOOTBALL TONBRIDGE ANGELS hoisted themselves off the bottom of the Vanarama National League South with a performance that mixed grit with skill.

Both sides were coming off the back of successive defeats, and it was a very even first half with seemingly a safety-first approach being taken by both managers.

In the 18th minute Weymouth’s Yemi Odubade escaped his marker and cut in from the right but Angels keeper Jon Henly pushed away his shot.

SPOT OF BOTHER Joe Turner sees his penalty saved dugouts, resulting in a couple of bookings.

Angels were awarded another penalty in the 85th minute when D’Sean Theobalds’ shot was handled and Ade Yusuff, who had wanted to take the first spot kick, was given his chance.

He scored but the referee ruled there had been some encroachment and he had to take it again.

Again he found the back of the net and Angels

were deservedly level.

Manager Steve McKimm said: “I’m very pleased with the performance, we passed the ball much better today and cut out the errors.

“Perhaps I’m a little disappointed we didn’t take all the points but all the players did really well and once again have shown we can compete at this level.”

Clover puts Rustics through in Vase Balham 1 Rusthall 2 FOOTBALL RUSTHALL made it through to the second qualifying round of the FA Vase with a hard-earned victory at Combined Counties League Premier Division side Balham.

The visitors came in on the back of two six-goal victories but they struggled to hold on to the ball as Balham started strongly.

The first half somehow remained goalless, and Rusthall started the second half looking like a different side with fine build-up play.

On 56 minutes the deadlock was finally broken as the Rustics put Balham’s defence under pressure and Jack Haire was adjudged to have handled the ball on the edge of the area.

Tommy Lawrence drilled the free kick superbly

PHOTO: Dean Jacquin

By Rich Smith

TIME TO BLOOM Charlie Clover scored a late winner

into the top right-hand corner, registering his first goal for the club since joining from Tunbridge Wells.

The visitors were now dominating play despite losing skipper Paul Butler to injury. But on 73 minutes they gifted an equaliser to Balham after giving the ball away.

Balham’s Brook Ermias raced to the byline and his cross sliced off Robbie Bissett and past keeper Aaron McGuigan.

But Rusthall showed resilience and patient passing, and were rewarded with a winner six minutes from time.

Charlie Clover burst into the box on the left and evaded a couple of challenges before slotting the ball home from a narrow angle.

Rusthall now face a home tie with Godalming Town on September 14. First they return to league action at Rochester United on Saturday (September 7).

GOOD ALL ROUND Ralph Yeats-Brown steered Cowdrey home

Yeats-Brown is hero with bat and ball as Tonbridge face drop Tonbridge 126 lost to Cowdrey 127-7 by 3 wkts CRICKET TONBRIDGE were left facing relegation from Kent League Division Three after losing a keenly fought town derby match at Cowdrey’s Swanmead ground.

The home side were without Sri Lankan overseas star Minhaj Jalill, who injured himself when Cowdrey won the six-a-side Gibraltar Cup at Heathfield Park.

Cowdrey’s captain Ryan Addison won the toss and chose to bowl first, and the visitors were soon reduced to 14 for 2.

A sickening injury to Stephen Hall, who broke his nose having misjudged a Thom Brown short ball, brought Ben Morgan to the crease to begin the fight back with Damian Howsam.

The introduction of veteran Glen Warner (2 for 26) brought the breakthrough with Morgan caught by Stuart Clarke at gully - one of four catches he took in the innings.

The introduction of Ralph Yeats-Brown proved the turning point with the left-arm spin bowling causing problems for the Tonbridge batsmen.

At 95 for 4 a total in excess of 160 looked on the cards, but the dismissal of overseas player Howsam for 49 stopped the visitors in their tracks.

Counterattack Yeats-Brown’s guile and flight then bamboozled the tailenders as he finished with figures of 4 for 24.

Tonbridge were bowled out for 126 in 39.4 overs with Nick Farr picking up 2 for 36.

Cowdrey batted very cautiously in reply and were 31 for 1 off 17 overs. After the drinks break, however, they lost four wickets without addition to the score.

The damage was wreaked by the Shehzad brothers, Khurram (3 for 18) and Nadeem (2 for 10) destroying the Cowdrey top order.

At 52 for 6 the match looked over but Clarke and Yeats-Brown had other ideas. The latter was solid in defence and Clarke went on the counterattack with three sixes and three fours.

However, there was another twist in the tail when Clarke (36) was dismissed at 94 for 7, leaving Brown to join Yeats-Brown with 33 still needed for victory.

Both played with great skill and stout defence, attacking any loose balls, and they saw Cowdrey home on 126 for 7 with Yeats-Brown unbeaten on 30 with six fours.

Tonbridge’s hopes of staying up depend on the final game of the season at home to Catford Cyphers, who are one place above them outside the drop zone and 16 points ahead. Cowdrey, in fifth place, travel to promoted Nonington for their final fixture on Saturday (September 7).

Wednesday September 4 | 2019

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

MILE’S END Elliot Giles wins ahead of Tonbridge’s James West

By Mark Hookway ATHLETICS TONBRIDGE Athletic Club hosted its ground-breaking Twilight Invitational meeting at Tonbridge School’s track on Friday evening, featuring a host of national and international class athletes.

The free event was inspired by similar meetings held more than 30 years ago. Not since those events in the 1980s has the venue witnessed such high levels of performance, watched by around a thousand spectators.

The programme of events was selected to showcase local athletes, but it also included two races in which elite runners had a last-gasp chance to gain qualifying times for the World Championships in Doha later this month.

The meeting opened with one of these two races, the 3,000 metres steeplechase, which was won by Phil Norman of Woodford Green in 8min

29.54sec, having finished runner-up at the previous weekend’s British Championships.

The track triathlon, consisting of the javelin, high Jump and 400m, featuring a number of the country’s top decathletes.

Tonbridge’s Lewis Church came out on top and produced a javelin personal best of 55.08m, along with a 2.00m jump and 51.48sec for the 400m.

In the men’s 100m, Tommy Ramdhan of Bexley won the final in 10.34, the fastest ever time on the Tonbridge School track, with Romell Glave of Croydon a second behind in 10.35.

A Colombian who took part in the Rio Olympics, Muriel Coneo Paredes, won the women’s 3,000m in 9:10.27, while the men’s race was taken by Kieran Clements of Shaftesbury Barnet in 8;07.59.

The 400m races were won by Dan Putnam of Blackheath and Bromley in 48.22 and Nicole Kendall of Kingston in 54.62.

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The final three events all saw performances that bettered the fastest times at the venue.

Rebecca Mehra of the United States took a narrow victory over Team GB international and European indoor finalist Mari Smith in the 800m ith a time of 2:2.99.

The Men’s Mile, arguably the highlight of the evening, saw the first sub-four minute mile recorded at the track.

Three-time British 800m champion Elliot Giles of Birchfield produced a storming performance to win in 3:56.47, with Tonbridge’s James West second in 3:57.94.

The final race, the men’s 800m, was another attempt at World Championship standards, as the top two at the British Championships, Spencer Thomas from Brighton and the Scot Guy Learmonth, were joined by Irish international Mark English. All three came agonisingly short of the qualifying time - English won in 1:45.98.

The club would like to thank sponsors John Bancroft, Lifetime Financial Services, Springbank Clinic, RA Mason and Son Landscape Gardeners, Libation Bar Events, Lion Insurance, Stella Bandu and Fryza Bannister Accountants.

HOBBS WINS ERIDGE 10 MILE Tunbridge Wells Harriers’ Billy Hobbs won the 21st Eridge 10 Trail Challenge for the second year running in a field of more than 350 competitors. He won with a time of 1hr 4min 45sec with club mate Will Levett second in 1:05.03, first M40. Tonbridge Athletic Club’s Helen Gaunt was the first female home in a time of 1:21.11, 29th in total and first F35.

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Chance for women to try rugby at St Mark’s RUGBY TUNBRIDGE WELLS hosted local rivals Tonbridge Juddians for the final pre-season warm-up game, with the visitors winning comfortably 55-7.

After missing out on promotion from National League South Division Two by a whisker last season, and having strengthened their squad considerably over the summer, TJs were always likely to prove too strong at this stage.

But the London and South East Premier Division side will take some heart from an improved performance in the second half and a robust display by ex-Chobham back row Ben Whale.

The league season kicks off in earnest on Saturday (September 7) when TJs take on Leicester Lions at home, while Tunbridge Wells travel to Guildford.

The A21 friendly was supposed to include a match between TJs Pink Ladies and a female Wells Invitation XI but unfortunately it had to be called off.

But this weekend St Marks hosts an England Rugby Inner Warrior Camp on Saturday from 3-4pm, a session designed to encourage women to take up the game.

For further details contact Simon Parsons, the Director of Ladies Rugby, at symz3@hotmail.com

PHOTO: Bruce Elliott

PHOTO: Dave Cross

Stars come out to shine at Tonbridge Twilight meeting

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BIG IMPRESSION Ben Whale arrives from Chobham