Times of Tunbridge Wells 12th December 2018

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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SETTING DOWN STALL The market has been a fixture in Civic Way since 1999

Stallholders are left out in the cold as building work forces market closure

By William Mata and Freya Gilbert TUNBRIDGE WELLS Farmers’ Market is to close after 20 years because of building work in the town centre and no date has been set for its reopening.

The borough council has announced that the popular attraction, which can boast up to 25 stalls, will close on its current Civic Way site in the New Year.

The closure will allow nearby development work to get underway at the new £13million Amelia Scott culture hub and also the public realm works on Mount Pleasant Road.

Established in 1999, the market provides a selection of food and garden products.

The authority has not confirmed when, or even if, the bi-monthly market [held the second and fourth

Saturdays] will return long after its Christmas special on December 22.

The likely date of the final market is January 26.

A statement read: “There is no suitable alternative site where the council can run the market given the

‘It is a real shame… we will lose our loyal base of customers’ Market trader need for access to utilities, storage space and access for vehicles.

“The future of the market once development work is complete has not been decided, when work is finished the council will review the market and consider how one could

be provided.”

The Pantiles hosts a market on alternate Saturdays. The council has said organisers will contact Farmers’ Market sellers interested in trading there.

Stallholder John Botterell, of the family-run Botterell’s Fresh Fish, called this a ‘ridiculous’ suggestion.

He said: “It is a real shame the market, where we have been based since 2002, will disappear because we will lose our loyal base of customers.

“Tunbridge Wells is always a steady market and this will really affect us.

There is no point us, or many stalls, going to The Pantiles as there are shops that duplicate our trade.

“We received a letter from the council last week to say the market would not re-open after January and that there would be a review to

re-open it in 2021.”

Another trader, who did not wish to be named, told the Times: “The Pantiles is not a good alternative as it is a very different market.

“I suggested the Clock Tower at Fiveways, which seems to be the perfect location.”

The Chili and Herb Farm owner Stephen Wood said he would turn his attention to other local markets.

He added that the 2021 date suggested was ‘not a realistic prospect’ as it would force people to ‘put their businesses on hold for three years’.

All three said they had not been involved in any consultation.

The Times has seen comments made

Full story pages 4

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

this week… Public to be consulted on plans DRIVING FORCE: Women launch successful biking gear business selling to 14 countries pg 13

to increase taxi fares in the town

By Richard Williams

RETAIL THERAPY: Why we should all be supporting our local independent shops this Christmas pgs 10-11

Taxi companies are pressing the borough council for a rise in fares of up to 10 per cent.

An application for an increase in Hackney Carriage fares has been made by local operators to the Licensing Committee.

The council will put the proposal to a public consultation early next year.

Councillor Lawrence Heasman, who attended the Licensing Committee meeting where they discussed the application, said there has not been an increase in fares in the area since 2011.

Objections

LESSONS FOR SUCCESS: The Weald of Kent’s new head Elizabeth Bone on her plans for the grammar school pg 23

“The fares are going out to consultation, so the public will be asked if they are happy with a potential increase up to 10 per cent.”

Currently, the initial charge for the first mile (or the first 12 minutes if the taxi is stationary) costs £4.00, with each subsequent mile charged at £2.60. If the change goes ahead, it will mean a two-mile journey will increase from £6.60 to £7.12.

Under the proposals put to the council, there could be an increase in the distance for the initial fixed-fee hiring charge, which could be reduced from 1,760 yards (one mile) to 1,408

WHITE WASH Taxis line up on Mount Pleasant yards (8/10 mile).

Cllr Heasman said: “It is recognising that doing a short journey and back again may need to be adjusted as it might not be worthwhile for them, especially if you then have to join the back of the taxi rank.

“If there are no objections, it will be up to the taxi firms to decide if they want to implement

fare increase. They are, after all, in a competitive market place.”

He said that the council were also discussing an increase to the fees for applying and renewing taxi licenses in the borough.

“The trade has to support itself. At the moment tax payers are subsidising it, so we are trying to reduce this subsidy,” added Cllr Heasman.

Meeting to discuss new hub fails to attract a single Tory

By Richard Williams

A HEALTHY APPROACH: Alive With Flavour blogger Jo Banks on why eating well shouldn’t be dull p48

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A MEETING to discuss residents’ concerns about the new Southborough Hub was held last week without any Tory members from the Conservativeled Town Council in attendance.

Around 200 residents were at the meeting and organisers said that not one person voiced support for the £10million project.

Opposition members of Southborough Town Council [STC] called the meeting because they are unhappy with the designs for the theatre and library hub, for which STC has now lodged a planning application with the Borough Council.

Cllr Nick Blackwell (Labour) and Cllr Trevor Poile (Liberal Democrat) organised the special Southborough Town Meeting to discuss the project’s latest scaled-back blueprints, which they say raise concerns about both the design of the building and the theatre’s financially viability.

The Times previously reported how the Theatres Trust warned the hub, which is planned to replace the now demolished Victoria Hall Theatre, was ‘not viable’ after the recent downscaling.

Cllr Nick Blackwell said: “Most of the planning and decision-making for the building had been done in private with very few people involved.”

Brian Dury, administrator for the Southborough Forum Facebook group and Crendon Park resident, chaired the meeting, which was held last Tuesday at Southborough Primary School.

“It was a full audience, around 200 people

OPPORTUNITY: Continued from page 1 by a senior council employee stating the Farmers’ Market is ‘not without its issues’ and has fallen from 35 stalls to 15-25 in two years.

Tory Cllr Tracy Moore said on Twitter: “We are working with both British Land [owners of Royal Victoria Place] and The Pantiles for the stallholders.

“This is an opportunity to enhance The Pantiles market or get Ely Court [in the shopping mall] back up and running.”

This latter suggestion was backed by her Conservative colleague Cllr David Scott.

came. Every ward in Southborough was represented,” said Mr Dury.

“No Conservative members came and attendees were disappointed about the lack of representation from those in charge.

“There were no project supporters in the room.

Nobody in the audience was in favour. Not one person. They did not like the design and had concerns about the pricing. They did not think the interiors worked.”

Concerns raised at the meeting included the look of the building, that the multi-purpose building was ‘muddled’, the library badly designed, and a lack of financial transparency.

After the meeting, Cllr Nick Blackwell said: “It was disappointing, but not surprising, that Conservative councillors had refused.”

But Cllr Ian Kinghorn, Tory group lead on the Hub, said issues were previously discussed.

“We understand that the Town Meeting, although not an official meeting, was well attended, but it is unfortunate that due to insufficient notice, no Conservative councillors were able to attend.”

He said residents had already raised concerns at the official Southborough Hub presentation on November 30, and as a result, the Southborough Hub working group implemented a number of changes to the design.

“It clearly demonstrates that we are listening to our residents’ concerns and implementing changes,” he said.

He added: “I’m hopeful that by moving the amalgamation with The Pantiles that they can continue and see their businesses prosper.”

Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, one of the most popular charities in Tunbridge Wells, has raised objections to the market closure.

Co-Founder Polly Taylor told the Times she was ‘deeply concerned’.

For 2018/19 rent for a ‘basic pitch’ was £30 for a trader per market.

As late as November 22 the Cabinet passed financial documents which stated the charge would remain the same for 2019/20.

It is understood the decision on the Farmers’ Market was made subsequently.

Charity gig is a Head Up hit MORE than £1,200 has been raised for mental health charities following a music event at the weekend.

Head Up, which consisted of five shows ranging from hip hop and acoustic sets to rock and metal, played at a number of Tunbridge Wells’ venues on Saturday, including The Forum, The Sussex Arms, The George and the newly opened Shuffle House, formerly Jean’s Kitchen on Saint John’s Road.

Initially set up to honour the memory of local musician, Jonny Smallwood, who took his life five years ago, the event was planned to raise awareness of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, addiction and suicide.

Inspiring The £1,275 raised from Saturday’s event is to go to mental health charities West Kent Mind and Sane.

Event organiser Matt Lucas said: “It was inspiring to see so many people donate their time, effort and most importantly money for this great cause.

“So many people who haven’t seen each other for a long time came together through music in the name of improving mental health, for themselves and others. I think a lot of people were reminded how much of a great healer music can be and that they aren’t alone.”

Plans are underway for a follow-up event.

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Domestic abuse charity looking for volunteers A WEST Kent charity that supports victims of domestic abuse has launched a recruitment drive for volunteers.

The Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Services (DAVSS), which provides support for both men and women, are looking for volunteers to be trained as face-to-face or telephone domestic abuse advisers.

The training for volunteers will take two days a week for ten weeks and takes place at the end of February.

The charity is also looking for fundraisers and ambassadors. Those interested in volunteering should contact the charity through their website: www.davss.org.uk

Seasonal services THE Church of Christ in Tunbridge Wells is hosting a Christmas carol service on December 16, aimed at all ages of the local community wanting to get into the spirit.

The carol service begins at 6pm at the Commercial Road church, and both refreshments and a warm welcome are on offer to all who attend.

The church is also hosting a short (45-minute) service for local families at 10am on Christmas Day.

White Christmas dream SNOW is unlikely to be on the cards for Christmas in the South East this year, according to official weather statistics.

Residents in Kent and the surrounding areas have just a 12 per cent chance of seeing snow over Christmas, according to Barratt Homes.

The firm has analysed the past 25 years of Met Office data to determine what conditions each area is most likely to experience this festive season.

The last official white Christmas in the South East was 2001.

Fall in unemployment UNEMPLOYMENT in both Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge has fallen over the past 12 months, according to Job Centre figures.

Overall, there were 570 people claiming Job Seekers Allowance in Tunbridge Wells during November, down 75 from 2017, and 655 in Tonbridge, down 80.

The news comes as the Universal Credit system comes into full force, with the Job Centre in Tonbridge among the last in the country to adopt the system.

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Champagne moment for jazz festival team as event wins first award in 27 year history ORGANISERS of Jazz on The Pantiles are celebrating the event’s first award in its 27 year history.

The popular series of music nights won silver in Tourism Event / Festival of the Year category of the Beautiful South Tourism Awards.

Julian Leefe-Griffiths, Managing Director of The Tunbridge Wells Hotel and the event organiser, picked up the accolade at the Grand Hotel in Brighton on Wednesday [December 5].

“We are really pleased and very proud of six years of hard work to create the event,” he said.

Around 1,500 to 2,000 people pack into The Pantiles every Thursday from May to late September for the live music.

Mr Leefe-Griffiths took charge of the events six years ago after a previous incarnation of Jazz on The Pantiles was forced to stop after 21 years.

Alongside fellow organiser Lionel Shell, Mr Leefe-Griffiths has kept refining the line-up of bands and musicians.

He continued: “It is the first one we have won and we are really pleased to be recognised.

“We were beaten to gold by Leeds Castle who have a massive budget. We are a free event.”

Mr Leefe-Griffiths thanked Mr Shell as well as the event’s sponsors.

AND ALL THAT JAZZ...

Julian Leefe-Griffiths [back] with Lionel Shell [red hat] and festival supporters

Gatwick Airport criticised for their ‘misleading’ poll A SURVEY which suggests that plans for Gatwick Airport to use their reserve runway is backed by two thirds of residents, has been criticised by campaigners as ‘misleading’ and ‘propaganda.’

Three thousand households in Kent, Sussex and Surrey were consulted by YouGov on Gatwick Airport’s “draft masterplan”.

Part of the plan is to start utilising the emergency runway for regular short haul flights.

The Times reported last month that the proposed plans could see the number of flights over Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area increase by more than 84,000 each year.

However, Stewart Wingate, Airport Chief executive, said the standby runway would be used for regular short-haul departures and was opposed by only 14 per cent.

While the recent poll suggests

people are overwhelmingly in favour of the plans, pressure group Campaign Against Gatwick Noise and Emissions [CAGNE] has dismissed it, arguing the consultation into the masterplan does not finish until January 10.

A spokesman for the group, which protests on behalf of towns and villages that are impacted by aviation noise – which includes Tunbridge Wells, said: “The whole process stinks. Gatwick is purposely misleading people during the consultation. We find it appalling they have released this poll result now when the consultation does not finish until January 10.”

Gatwick Airport denies the poll is in anyway misleading. A spokesman said: “We have clearly advertised through a number of channels that the consultation finishes on January 10.”

Greg Clark tells MPs to put up or shut up on EU TUNBRIDGE WELLS MP Greg Clark, says Members of Parliament that are criticising Theresa May’s Brexit deal need to propose a credible alternative before rejecting the PM’s plan.

In his column for the Times [P24], the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said that in the coming days, Parliament must decide how Britain acts on the decision of the 2016 Referendum.

“The Prime Minister has negotiated an agreement that would implement Brexit, while allowing us to continue to trade freely with the EU,” said Mr Clark.

“It is easy to find something to criticise in the agreement, but few of the fiercest critics have put forward a credible alternative.

“The time has come for MPs to say what they do want rather than only what they don’t want.”

His words come just days after Theresa May called off Tuesday’s crucial vote on her Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, which she has conceded would be rejected if MPs had voted on it, choosing instead to go back to Brussels to ask for changes.

“I have always made my views clear - we need to agree a deal, rather than plunge into the disruption and uncertainty of an acrimonious walk-out on 29 March,” said Mr Clark.

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

New buzz in air at Bewl Water as karting provides a formula for fun

By Richard Williams THE reservoir and beauty spot that is Bewl Water played host to a corporate client day last week that saw guests behind the wheel of racing go karts.

A hundred clients were at the event, organised by the insurance group Markerstudy, and were invited to take part in a range of activities, from cycling and fishing to laser tag. But it was karting that proved the most popular.

Speed “Where else in Kent can you find a venue combining laser shooting, go-karting, fishing, off-road cycling, and 13 miles of scenic rambling?” said Lizzie Smith-Foreman, Director of Group Marketing at Markerstudy.

“We were able to provide something for everyone.”

She said a temporary 600m kart circuit was created using existing roads around the reservoir.

This was complete with crash barriers and tyres placed strategically around the route and guests were invited to compete in 15 single-engine Biz karts supplied by Teesside Karting, who provided

BRAKE TIME Guests relax between races

THE people of Wadhurst have joined forces to fighting any future undesirable development after plans to build 22 homes and a community centre were quashed.

In a public vote, 64 per cent rejected the plans which would have seen the First World War Commemoration Hall knocked down. The idea has now been dropped.

Tim Page, of the Save Our Wadhurst WW1 Commemoration Hall & Field group, thanked the 796 who queued to vote ‘no’ but warned of challenges that lie ahead.

“We are joining together to oppose future development in Wadhurst,” he told the Times.

“The authorities are planning to concrete over the village and there are a lot of people who have moved here [for the green spaces].”

Wealden District Council has identified the village as a spot for 91 homes in their Local Plan.

This is part of the 2013-2028 scheme, which will see 14,228 homes built in Wealden borough – 7,700 of which have already been completed.

As of yet, the objectors are not focusing their efforts on opposing any individual scheme.

Mr Page thanked his co-campaigners Jim Hemsley and Andrea Tincombe for their efforts.

He continued: “Wealden are planning to build on every green spot. So we are grouping together now as a community and building numbers.”

“Bewl provided all the ingredients for a wonderful corporate event, and exceeded expectations,” said Ms Smith-Foreman.

“We’ve received huge praise from our guests, many already asking if we’ve fixed a date for the same event next year.”

‘Bewl Water provided all the ingredients for a wonderful corporate event, and exceeded our expectations’

Residents band together to fight any plans to ‘concrete over’ their village

By William Mata

all the necessary equipment and staff to run the ‘off-site’ race. While Formula One’s Lewis Hamilton can probably rest easy in his bed, the petrol-powered 200cc karts are still capable of speeds up to 55 mph, which enabled one of the guests to set a fastest lap of 42.013 seconds.

On their Local Plan strategy, a District Council spokesman commented: “The proposed submission Local Plan seeks to meet Wealden’s Objectively Assessed Housing Need by providing for new homes across the district.

“At the same time it imposes a range of environmental safeguards to protect our landscape and ecology. It aims to maintain Wadhurst as an attractive place to live,

‘The authorities are planning to concrete over the village and there are a lot of people who have moved here for the green spaces’ safeguarding its special landscape and historic characteristics and improving health, community and leisure facilities.

“The Development Boundary will protect the village’s sensitive setting within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while allowing for 91 new homes to be built utilising three specific sites.

“The new homes will seek to redress the current imbalance in the village toward large four and five bedrooms dwellings by focussing on the provision of smaller homes.”

CAMPAIGN TEAM Tim Page, Jim Hemsley, Reggie Hemsley, Pat Hay and Nick Gouldsworthy

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Buy local to help shops thrive and survive in fight against online giants

By William Mata and Freya Gilbert WITH just two shopping weekends remaining before Christmas, independent retailers need your custom more than ever.

Tunbridge Wells is famed for its quality selection of independent shops in and around Royal Victoria Place and on Camden Road as well as The Pantiles and High Street – which was recently nominated for a national award.

However, retailers across the board are facing pressures as never before from increasing business rates, Brexit uncertainty and an ever-more online-looking population.

And Tunbridge Wells is not exempt. A report from August showed almost one in five retail

“You’re not going to get our kind of service online.” units around town [95 out of 514] is vacant.

At the same time, online sales grew by around 15 per cent last year.

Business leaders and shopkeepers around the town have told the Times it is a case of ‘use it or lose it’ for the town’s shopping heart.

Cllr Tracy Moore, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, has previously spoken out about challenges and opportunities faced.

She said: “Retail organisations are finding the economic climate challenging and as a result the retail face of town centres is changing, and this isn’t unique to Royal Tunbridge Wells.

“Studies show that town centres are becoming different places, OPPORTUNITIES they’re no longer just about Cllr Tracy Moore shopping, leisure and culture are shares her thoughts increasingly important.”

TOP FOUR RETAIL OFFERS THIS CHRISTMAS INDEPENDENTS are fighting back by offering deals that cannot be found anywhere online.

Times reporter Freya Gilbert profiles four offers that are hard to ignore: Boutique gift shop the Silver Sheep, in Chapel Place, claims to offer the personal touch with 90 per cent of their products being handmade in the store. They also have Christmas wreath making courses.

Anna Poulsen, a fashion shop – also in Chapel Place, is offering a unique service in the run up to Christmas. Owner Anna and her team will be giving free styling tips.

She said: “Bring your own outfit in, we can add to it or we can create you a whole new look.”

Foodies Delicatessen in Camden Road, specialises in Christmas gift hampers which will feature a selection of their products.

The Beer Boutique in Mount Pleasant is providing customers with expert tips on taste. Manager Max Eaglestone told us: “The big thing that we focus on is that you’re not just getting a bog standard gift that everyone else is going to be buying.”

She went onto explain how the council is looking to attract business by investing in major crowd-pullers, such as the Calverley Square theatre and civic complex.

And another scheme aiming to support traders is the creation of a Business Improvement District [BID] from next April.

This will see a number of retailers in the town centre paying a levy – from which projects to enhance shopper experiences will be started.

But from a quick stroll around the town centre, the Times has found that retailers themselves are making efforts to go the extra mile.

Max Eaglestone, manager of Mount Pleasant shop The Beer Boutique, said:

IN NUMBERS: HOW CONSUMER DEMANDS BREAK DOWN

+ 15%

Instore sales saw a 2.4 per cent increase, said to be the lowest growth since 2013.

In 2017 online retail grew 15 per cent from the year before.

Some have estimated growth in 2018 to be up an aditional 11.8 per cent.

68% Some 68 per cent declared intentions to do their Christmas spending online to escape crowds, 62 per cent to avoid queues and half to get better value for money with price comparisons and access to reviews.

CLOSED

There was a total loss of 1,772 stores in 2017 across the top 500 British town centres, according to a study by consultancy PwC.

An average of 16 high street shops closed every day in 2017, with more than 700 of the closures coming among fashion retailers For every £1 that is spent at an independent shop, 63p goes back into the local economy, compared to 40p from a chain shop and 1p from online.

£1

British families will spend an average £821.25 on gifts, food and drink and decorations, up 1.3 per cent in 2016 and 54 per cent more than the European average of £532, according to figures from VoucherCodes and the Centre for Retail Research (CRR).

“Everything we sell is created, we’ll talk you through it and you’re not going to get that kind of service online.

“We always have recommendations even if you’re not the expert in what you’re buying yourself.

“We will help you bridge that gap and find you exactly what you’re after in terms of what you’re buying for somebody else.”

HIGH STREETS SET FOR A BLUE CHRISTMAS? THIS December is shaping up to be the toughest for the UK High Street since the 2008 recession, according to reports.

A gruelling year for retailers has resulted in around 90,000 jobs being lost due to shop closures and it is predicted that footfall during Christmas will decrease by a further 4.2 per cent in town centres.

Kate Hardcastle, leading business expert in consumer affairs, has said that local authorities are dealing with dwindling budgets and increased pressures from the high street with government playing ‘pass the parcel’ with the issue.

“It just feels like we have created a tier of noise so the Government can try to say, ‘High street. Problem solved.’ It’s not,” she commented.

ROYAL VICTORIA PLACE

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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Six of the best indie shops Sports opened in 1978 and quickly became one of the leading retailers of sporting guns, boasting an impressive selection of shotguns including Beretta, Browning, Perazzi and Salvinelli.

Its clothing and footwear offering is equally impressive, featuring high quality pieces from Barbour and Dubarry among others. Even the pets are catered for with a collection of dog training equipment to keep your canine friends in line!

A warm welcome can always be expected at Chris Potter Country Sports, a specialist retailer with a wealth of expertise to offer this Christmas and beyond.

CHRIS POTTER COUNTRY SPORTS A well-loved local shop that celebrated its 40th anniversary this year, Chris Potter Country Sports is a destination retailer that attracts shoppers from all over the world with its extensive collection of sporting guns, accessories and country clothing.

Based on Grover Street, Chris Potter Country

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TRADERS in Tunbridge Wells are experiencing their busiest time of the year but have unprecedented challenges.

But despite pressures of online shopping and business rates independent retailers are still finding a way to flourish.

The Times invited Karen Pengelly, Manager of business group Royal Tunbridge Wells Together to share six of her favourite places to shop.

INDEPENDENT businesses are the heart of any town centre and here in Tunbridge Wells, we are fortunate to have so many of them. A stroll along Camden Road, will take you past destination shops such as The Friendly Fisherman, World of Sewing and Snowear. In The Pantiles, Mottrams, Special Things and Catherine Hills Jewellery offer an array of wonderful gifts. Throughout the town centre, there are jewellers, boutiques, galleries,

GRAY & CO. Modern, stylish and independent, Gray & Co. is a fashion and lifestyle boutique for men and women based in Chapel Place, a traffic-free destination for shopping and socialising in Tunbridge Wells.

Founded on Steve Gray’s genuine love of beautiful clothes, cool music and outstanding customer service, Gray & Co. offers expertly curated collections that feature all-year-round, easy-to-wear, well-priced, modern tailoring and wardrobe essentials.

From windproof and waterproof styles to European tech denim and unisex organic cotton tees, tops and sweats, Gray & Co. is well known for its ‘fashion meets function’ aesthetic and high quality, ethically sourced pieces from family-owned European and British brands.

Passionate supporters of ‘shop local’, the Gray & Co. team offer the ultimate independent shopping experience that will put a smile on your face this Christmas.

NEWS

Independent retailers help support the local economy

‘Take the time to shop local this Christmas. It’s more rewarding for everyone’

GRAY MATTER: Steve Gray founded Gray & Co, a clothing shop in Tunbridge Wells’ Chapel Place

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PANTILES CAMERAS A family-run company that has been trading for over 40 years, Pantiles Cameras has shops in the historic Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells and in Sevenoaks too, providing outstanding customer service and extensive product knowledge that sets it apart from the larger chains.

As well as stocking a range of cameras, lenses, accessories, printers, radios and other useful gadgets direct from UK suppliers, Pantiles Cameras offers services instore that include passport/ID photos, cine film to DVD transfer, photo restoration and professional servicing of photographic equipment, among others.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of The Pantiles, this independent business is a well-loved fixture in the town that offers high quality equipment and services at very competitive prices.

IL VESUVIO A fusion of ancient and modern Neapolitan traditions and culinary arts, Il Vesuvio is a family-run independent Italian eatery based on Camden Road that serves excellent food at affordable prices.

From pizza and pasta to meat and fish dishes, Il Vesuvio’s menu showcases classic Neapolitan cookery at its finest, earning the restaurant a 2018 Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor that proves it to be a truly exemplary place to dine.

Known as ‘a corner of Southern Italy in the Garden of England’, this local gem is well-loved by residents and visitors alike and is the perfect setting for big family dinners, lunches with friends or even a romantic dinner for two this Christmas.

WHIRLIGIG TOYS Founded by owner Peter Allinson in 2012, champions creativity in children with its collection of unique toys for kids who love to make things, sourced from a variety of independent suppliers.

The shop, based on Mount Pleasant Road in Tunbridge Wells, specialises in ‘things to make and do’, an ethos founded from a lack of toys catered towards children aged 6 and up – toys that inspire little ones of all ages to try out something new, get involved and learn a new skill.

From constructing models to learning how to sew your own soft toy, Whirligig Toys offers excellent customer service and a huge choice of creative and engaging projects to get stuck into this Christmas.

Last week the Times reported Whirligig was one of the UK’s top 25 independent retailers.

restaurants and bars who offer fabulous service and beautiful goods. Every time you shop locally, you are supporting jobs, the local environment and services. Spend money in a ‘bricks and mortar’ shop and most of it stays local, business rates and taxes are paid and people are employed, spend it online and it’s disappeared.

Take the time to shop local this Christmas, it’s more rewarding for everyone!

FROMAGE & FRENCH Fromage & French is a small part of France to be enjoyed here in Tunbridge Wells, with rows upon rows of beautiful wines, tempting cheese and delicious accompaniments.

Based on the High Street, Fromage & French is an independent retailer that sources the best of French produce from smaller suppliers, ensuring the highest quality cheese and wine from growers who have been producing for generations.

PAWESOME: Harpers’ Shoes owner Sally Manser said retail therapy is needed YOUR CUSTOM NEEDED TO SAVE SHOPS THE owner of Harpers Shoes, an independent shop on Tunbridge Wells High Street, fears there will be few retailers left on the high street if people don’t continue to support local retailers.

In the nine years that Sally Manser, 60, has been trading, she has experienced three severe floods and had several lorries hit her storefront, but this has been her hardest year yet.

“It is a struggle. This has been the worst year in the last nine years,” she said. “People are just not spending the money.”

And the ladies shoe retailer says that unless people start supporting their local retailers, there will be few of them left on the high street.

“If people are not using their local shops they will lose them. We are in danger of having no shops at all,” she warned.

“People come here because you have a personal service, it is a more social and community experience – you can’t get that online.”

FLASH FOWARD: David Podbury, Owner of Pantiles Cameras, a shop with a 40-year history in town

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Kitchen brand opens studio in The Pantiles

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A SOCIAL media marketing company stepped in to save The Kent, Mind, Body and Spirit Festival from cancellation.

Tunbridge Wells-based Social Fireworks were credited for promoting The Hop Farm event online to boost ticket sales by 2,840 per cent in eight weeks.

Clockwork Tessa Stewart, The Bell’s Wedding and Events Co-ordinator, said: “I am so pleased for the whole team.

“We work hard to make sure every wedding runs like clockwork and is unique to each couple.

“We pride ourselves in giving a professional but friendly service. This award recognises our achievement in making every wedding special.”

Step-free nomination

CRIPPS, one of the largest law firms in Tunbridge Wells, has formally agreed to merge with London’s Pemberton Greenish.

The deal, confirmed last week, will create a mid-market practice with a combined turnover of £45million and 450 staff.

No regrets on how we voted in referendum MEMBERS of South-East businesses have not changed their minds over Brexit since the 2016 referendum, a survey has shown.

Thomson Snell & Passmore, a Tunbridge Wells-based law firm, found 94 per cent of people in the companies surveyed have no regrets over voting either remain or leave.

The 140 businesses, across a range of sectors, were asked their views against a background of political uncertainty.

Thrive The survey results also show that 58 per cent were confident the UK would ‘thrive’ after leaving the European Union.

Joanne Gallagher, of Thomson Snell & Passmore, said: “Although there is still uncertainty, our Brexit Barometer clearly shows that businesses recognise there are opportunities.

“It suggests greater confidence from the SME marketplace about Britain’s future than some politicians suggest.

“It will be interesting to see how this confidence develops over the next few months.”

FORGET EU: Joanne Gallagher speaks out

13

STAFF at Ticehurst inn The Bell have been named best Regional Wedding Team for the South East.

The venue’s management picked up the honour at The Wedding Industry Awards Regional Finals, held last month.

It means The Bell will advance to the final of the Wedding Industry Awards, to be held in London’s Café de Paris on January 16.

Social skills save event

Merge is completed

BUSINESS

Bell wedding team named the region’s best in the business

HERE COMES THE BRIDAL TEAM The Bell’s staff celebrate

GERMAN bespoke kitchen design company Poggenpohl has opened a studio in Tunbridge Wells.

The company has chosen The Pantiles as its eighth UK location and has committed to integrate into the historic setting.

RAILWAY stations serving High Brooms and Hildenborough are among 22 on the Southeastern network to be considered for step-free access funding.

Following campaigns for better disability access to both, the stations on the London to Hastings line will be considered under the government’s Access for All scheme.

Local News

More women applying to be train drivers after push for rail diversity

By Duncan Audsley HUNDREDS more women are applying to be train drivers after a recruitment drive by the Southeastern Railway company.

The franchise holder said their campaign has led to an 11 per cent increase in female applicants since it launched in November.

Initiatives In that time, 341 out of 1,288 applicants [26 per cent] were female, which Southeastern say is on the right track to achieving 40 per cent by the year 2021.

At present, only 4.5 per cent of their train drivers are female.

The firm’s Recruitment Manager, Paul Hayler, said: “This is a very encouraging figure, but it’s only a start – we are determined to encourage more women to come forward.

“You can look forward to seeing many more female drivers in the cabs of Southeastern trains in years to come.”

The railway company, which provides services through Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge stations to London and Hastings, has introduced seven initiatives to close the gender gap.

These include measures to mentor female drivers, amend imagery to reflect diversity, and hold open days aimed at women.

Across the entire rail industry, just 16 per cent of employees are female.

Ellie Burrows, Southeastern’s Train Services Director, said: “Driving a train brings responsibility, pride and achievement.

“It’s high time we broke the perception of the railways as a male-dominated industry.

“There are thousands of talented women out there who could have a rewarding career working in roles ranging from engineering to driving, onboard supervising or sales.”

WOMEN ON PATH TO SUCCESS Female-owned businesses contribute £105billion to the UK economy, according to new research.

However, the Federation of Small Businesses [FSB] found that despite this ‘diversity in manufacturing and higher growth sectors is still a challenge’.

Lina Bourdon, FSB’s Women in Enterprise lead, said: “Developing and supporting women’s enterprise is proven to be critically important for economic prosperity.

“The government must now address this untapped potential with a range of suitable measures, such as career advice, role models and access to business support and finance.”

Shopping centre owners lose out on retail but stay positive

By William Mata BRITISH LAND will continue to focus on retail projects, such as Royal Victoria Place, despite recording a half year loss.

The property investor, which bought the Tunbridge Wells shopping centre earlier this year, saw their portfolio fall 1.9 per cent to £12.9billion from March to September.

Financial reports show the firm recorded a £42million overall pre-tax loss in the period.

The situation would have been worse had it not been for their London office portfolio, which attracted a 5.8 per cent increase in like-for-like rents.

Chief Executive Chris Grigg said: “This has been another period of good operational and strategic progress.

“We expect retail to remain challenging in both the occupier and investment markets as the impact of long-

term structural change is compounded by shortterm headwinds.

“Against this backdrop, our strategy is clear, consistent and focused on the long term.”

REVVING UP: Ellen and Ina Lombard-Ogilvie

Potential The FTSE 100 company owns several shopping centres, most notably Sheffield’s Meadowhall.

Their retail operation was not helped by Poundland and Fabb Sofas shops both falling into administration, and Mothercare moving out of several malls, including Royal Victoria Place.

Their combined lost rents totalled a reported £6million.

A spokesman commented: “Our focus continues to be on well-located, high quality, multi-let assets with mixed use potential.

“This strategy underpins our acquisition of Royal Victoria Place in Tunbridge Wells, an affluent VIEW FROM town with heritage THE TOP architecture in London’s British Land commuter zone with an Chief Executive undersupply of good Chris Grigg quality retail.”

Girls allowed as duo’s biker kit goes global TWO Tonbridge entrepreneurs have achieved success in creating the UK’s first motorcycle clothing brand for women.

Ina Lombard-Ogilvie, 43, and Ellen Ogilvie, 26, provide kit for female riders – a group that has grown 50 per cent in ten years.

The pair started Motogirl three years ago with a shopfront in Priory Street and an online store.

They now sell to stockers in 14 countries.

Overwhelming Ina said: “It is not surprising we have received such an overwhelming response. Finding comfortable, stylish and protective motorcycle clothing was nearly impossible.

“That was the driving force behind the decision to create and distribute our own range of clothing. It is created for women, by women.”

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NEWS

Community News

Light Up A Life tree helps to celebrate lives of loved ones

PHOTO: Rose Bainbridge

THE annual Light Up A Life ceremony at Hospice in the Weald saw 375 people come together to remember the lives of loved ones.

Hospice Chaplains Penny Stephens and Annie Blampied-Radojcin led the service of readings and carols before the lights on the Christmas tree were switched on.

Light Up A Life enables the congregation to write a personal message for a relative on a star which hangs from the tree, with the names also inscribed in a book of remembrance.

Ms Stephens said: “It was the first year that Annie and I took the service, and it was a privilege to be a part of what is such a significant evening to so many people.

“It was lovely to meet people after the service and to hear their stories. The support you see between families who may have experienced a similar journey is so touching.”

The Salvation Army Band took part in the celebration, along with the Hospice Community Choir and Walthamstow Hall Junior School from Sevenoaks.

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Bishop voices concerns about blame culture around young people’s mental health issues

AMBASSADOR Lucy Kedge talks about eating disorders and BEAT

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk THE Bishop of Tonbridge has spoken of his concern about society’s attitudes to children’s mental health in a conference at Christ Church, Tunbridge Wells.

The conference, Understanding This Generation, was hosted by the town’s Christian charity Fegans, which offers children’s counselling and parent support services. The event was attended by representatives of more than 35 local churches.

The Bishop, The Rt Rev Simon Burton-Jones, said that comments blaming young people for not being ‘robust enough’ to deal with modern life should not to be tolerated in the Church: “Churches have the capacity to offer care across the generations and to use the sizeable local spaces we have to bless those who have no safe space.”

The discussions about the role churches can play in supporting young people with their men-

tal wellbeing follows an NHS report claiming one in eight children in England is living with a mental health problem.

“It is hard to think of a more valuable issue for the Church to be engaged with right now,” said the Bishop. “We know something is not right and it appears to be getting worse for both young

‘Three children in every classroom have a mental health problem, yet 75 per cent are not receiving treatment’ women and young men, and symptoms are presenting at an earlier age.”

He said understanding why mental health issues among young people are on the rise is not easy because there are many issues to take into account.

“Faced with such uncertainty, some people fall back on easy remedies or, better still, fingerpointing, so others take the blame,” he said. “We should not tolerate such talk in the Church.”

He told the audience that young people are faced with powerful subliminal messages which suggest they ‘must come as close to perfection as they can in their lives in order to be respected by both their elders and their peers’.

“Cuts to budgets for mental illness among children and young people are some of the cruellest to be made,” he said, praising Fegans as an organisation that can provide early intervention.

Inspirational talks were also given by Lucy Kedge, an ambassador for the charity BEAT, which supports people affected by eating disorders; family psychotherapist Lindsay Melluish; Rev Hugh Nelson, the vicar at Goudhurst & Kilndown Church, who helped establish the community group Weald Family Hub; and Ian Soars, Chief Executive of Fegans.

Mr Soars told the Times: “In the last five years the number of under-16s admitted to hospital for self-harm doubled, and currently in the UK, three children in every classroom have a mental health problem, yet 75 per cent are not receiving the treatment they so desperately need.

“Our charity believes that local communities can play a key part in responding to this national mental health crisis, which is deeply affecting the lives of children and young people in the UK today.”

He added: “There was a massive turnout to Fegans’ event, largely from local church leaders and congregations, demonstrating that there is a real willingness for communities to step up and support local families in need.

“Some churches are already providing funding and volunteers to help Fegans, and the evidence shows they are making a real difference.

“The rising tide of children’s poor mental health can – and should – be pushed back. Early intervention saves lives.”

Schools or churches interested in working with Fegans can email joanne.wild@fegans.org.uk

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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Exploring your imagination through art and meditation A NEW ‘Create & Meditate’ workshop held in Langton Green Church Hall has been encouraging local children to combine art and mindfulness.

It was set up by Emma Sims of Soulstar Sanctuary, a reiki healing centre in the village, local artist Gabriel Knollys and mindfulness teacher Melanie Powl Thomas.

The first session was attended by 32 children from the villages of Langton Green and PenCREATIVE FORCE Dylan Del Vecchio with his lifesize self-portrait

shurst, who came along to paint and meditate.

They created lifesize paintings of themselves using materials sponsored by The Weller Way, which offers parenting and life skills coaching, with a donation from the proceeds going to West Kent Mind.

“The idea is to create a space where children could come and freely create and meditate,” Emma said.

“Art can be a form of escape, and meditation a form of stepping back, noticing our thoughts and feelings without getting too tied up in them.

“The fusion of both will, we hope, allow the children to express themselves creatively and allow their imaginations to be ignited.”

She believes it’s important to introduce meditation at a young age.

“By sharing and introducing these skills at an early age, we are giving children their own toolbox to use when they need it most,” she said.

“We hope to help children recognise their hundreds of different emotions, how to create a little bit of space between them and their feelings, and to understand that they are not their thoughts.”

The artistic side of the project allows them to create something physical as well as experience the psychological benefits of meditation.

“We would love to create a place where children can roam freely in their imagination, and feel content in their own mind and body,” Emma continued.

“Creativity is the free-est form of self-expression.

There is nothing more satisfying and fulfilling for children than to be able to express themselves openly and without judgement.”

For information about future workshops, visit soulstarsanctuary.co.uk or @soulstarsanctuary on Instagram

SEND A SMILE One of the pupils’ creations

Community News

NEWS

17

and small households tasks or some weeding in the garden, but also they offer company.”

The mother of two from Sevenoaks added: “It’s also a way of helping people who lead busy lives and might not be able to drop in to see their parents. There’s one lady whose mum has dementia and she can’t visit her one day a week.”

‘There were 873,000 old people who weren’t contacted last Christmas’ Lindsey worked in elderly care services for a decade, providing live-in care. She explains: “We were getting more and more enquiries from people who didn’t necessarily need advanced care, just someone to pop in and help when they wanted it.”

The organisation currently has more than 200 home helpers in the Kent and Sussex area.

Lindsey explained how #onemorecard was conceived. “I was going through some Age UK

By Andy Tong statistics and I read that there were 873,000 old andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk people who weren’t contacted last Christmas.

“Then a friend of mine put a call out on social media asking people to send a 96-year-old A NEW scheme in Tunbridge Wells is calling on veteran called Harry Winters some Christmas primary school children to decorate a Christmas cheer – and he received 500 cards. He’s now card each to send to someone who will be feeling helping us with our campaign.” lonely over the festive period.

She added: “When we had all that snow earlier As part of its campaign, called #onemorecard, this year, it gave people a reason to reach out Close To Hand has provided almost 500 cards to and knock on doors. What better way to do that pupils at Pembury Primary School and more than than with your kids? Children are very perceptive 300 for St Augustine’s in Tunbridge Wells. about people who are lonely, and they can think Children from Skinners’ Kent Primary, the of someone who needs some company more Village Kids Club and Play Place after-school quickly than adults. club in Rusthall are also taking part.

“The best way to push this out is through Close to Hand’s founder, Lindsey children – and it works well with schools Nathan, set it up last year to create dealing with topics like mental health ‘an online service to connect older and wellbeing. We’ve got lots of independent people who live on their beavers, cubs and scouts involved, too.” own to a home help service to give Now she wants mums and dads to them flexibility to seek help as and send one extra card as well: “We mustn’t when they need it’. underestimate what a small act of “It’s not about care, but kindness like that can do.” companionship,” she said.

For more information visit “Our visitors go in and provide Lindsey Nathan closetohand.co.uk practical help, like shopping

Children back project to send one extra card to lonely person

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National News

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Brexit deal will be Opposition leaders tell Corbyn: back in Commons Act now or we will do it instead before January 21 Mrs May will bring her Brexit deal back before the House of Commons ‘before January 21’, Downing Street said yesterday.

The delay to the so-called ‘meaningful vote’ by MPs means that ratification may not be possible until as late as 10 weeks before the scheduled date of Brexit on March 29.

But Mrs May’s spokesperson insisted she continues to believe that necessary preparations can be completed within that time.

The PM was due to hold talks in Brussels last night with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council president Donald Tusk.

Mr Juncker won applause from MEPs yesterday when he said: “There is no room whatsoever for renegotiation, but of course there is room if used intelligently, there is room enough to give further clarifications and further interpretations without opening the Withdrawal Agreement.

“This will not happen. Everyone has to note that the Withdrawal Agreement will not be reopened.”

Man arrested at Parliament gates A MAN was arrested by armed police near one of the entrances to the Houses of Parliament yesterday [Tuesday].

About a dozen officers surrounded the suspect as he was held against a fence inside the Carriage Gates.

The entrance was the scene of a terrorist atrocity in March 2017 when Khalid Masood murdered unarmed police officer Keith Palmer.

At the time there was shock at the lack of an armed presence near the gate, and chief coroner Mark Lucraft QC found that shortcomings in security at the site meant marksmen did not know where they were supposed to patrol.

Since the attack, security at the site has been increased, with a permanent armed presence at the entrance.

Tasered The incident, just before midday, is not believed to be terror-related. The man was taken away in a police car shortly after 12.15pm.

He was Tasered after failing to stop running when ordered to do so by officers, police said.

A Metropolitan Police statement said: “At around 11.55hrs, a man tried to gain entry to the grounds of the Palace of Westminster via Carriage Gates, and ran towards officers posted there.

“He did not comply with officers’ requests to stop. A Taser was deployed.

“The man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of trespassing at a protected site, and taken to a police station where he remains.”

TfL to axe jobs and investment plans LONDON’S transport authority is planning to cut jobs and investments as it faces growing financial pressures.

Transport for London [TfL] has been hit by the loss of a £700million annual grant from the Government, delays to the Crossrail project and reduced fare revenue.

Its draft five-year business plan sets out how it intends to reduce ‘back and middle office costs’ by 30 per cent, which will involve job losses.

Schemes to improve signalling on the Piccadilly line and deep Tube lines to enable London Underground trains to run closer together will be paused, as will work to transform Camden Town station.

CALL TO ARMS (L-R) Vince Cable, Caroline Lucas and Ian Blackford

LABOUR leader Jeremy Corbyn was told to force a vote of no confidence in Theresa May as Prime Minister by the end of yesterday [Tuesday], or other opposition parties would do so.

Parliamentary leaders of four opposition parties wrote a letter to Mr Corbyn calling on him to take the action.

It was signed by Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable, Green MP Caroline Lucas, SNP leader in Westminster Ian Blackford and Plaid Cymru’s Liz Saville Roberts.

Responsibility The letter said there was an ‘overwhelming’ case for a confidence motion following Mrs May’s decision to defer yesterday’s Commons vote on her Brexit deal.

Mr Blackford said: “He cannot delay. If Jeremy does not accept that responsibility then I’m afraid the rest of us will have to accept that responsibility and lay down that motion of no confidence.”

The four leaders said it was Labour’s role, as the main party of opposition, to take the initiative in trying to remove Mrs May from office and

thereby pave the way for a second EU referendum.

Mr Corbyn has repeatedly made clear he wants an early general election to give Labour a chance to take over the Brexit negotiation process.

However, he has so far held back from tabling a no confidence motion under the 2011 Fixed-Term Parliaments Act, which requires a majority of MPs to pass.

When challenged on the subject in the Commons by the SNP’s Pete Wishart, he said: “We have no confidence in this Government.”

But he added: “We need to do the appropriate thing at the appropriate time to have a motion of no confidence in order to get rid of this Government.”

Under the terms of the Act, a general election is triggered 14 days after a successful no confidence motion, unless MPs express their confidence in the Prime Minister or a successor in a subsequent vote within that time.

The opposition told Mr Corbyn: “Labour’s annual conference in September voted for a policy that commits your party to oppose a bad Brexit deal, seek a general election and – if that does not succeed – campaign for a People’s Vote.”

Bishop will serve 36 years for Babes in the Woods murders THE Babes in the Woods killer Russell Bishop was sentenced to a minimum of 36 years in prison for the murders of two schoolgirls in 1986.

The 52-year-old convicted paedophile was found guilty of killing nine-year-olds Nicola Fellows and Karen Hadaway on Monday, ending two families’ long fight for justice.

Bishop was 20 when he sexually assaulted and strangled the girls in woodland in Brighton.

He was cleared of their murders in 1987 but within three years went on to kidnap, molest and throttle a seven-year-old girl.

While serving life for attempted murder he was ordered to face a fresh trial under the double jeopardy law, in light of a DNA breakthrough.

Bishop responded by trying to cast suspicion on Nicola’s devastated father Barrie.

Monster Jurors at the Old Bailey took just two and a half hours to convict Bishop. All of them returned yesterday and hugged family members outside.

Bishop refused to attend court for his sentencing. In his absence Mr Justice Sweeney handed him a life sentence and said: “I have no doubt that you were a predatory paedophile.

“The terror that each girl must have suffered in their final moments is unimaginable.”

In a victim impact statement, Karen’s mother Michelle Hadaway said: “Finally justice has been done and Bishop has been seen as the evil monster he really is.”

She added: “This is the result we should have had 31 years ago. Having to go through a second

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Gascoigne in court on sexual assault charge PAUL GASCOIGNE has appeared in court to deny sexually assaulting a woman by kissing her on a train.

The 51-year-old was arrested on August 20 while travelling from York to Newcastle.

Last month British Transport Police said he had been charged with one count of sexual assault by touching.

It is alleged he kissed a woman over the age of 16. He has protested his innocence, saying he had stepped in to comfort a woman after she was called a ‘fat cow’.

Following a seven-minute hearing, Gascoigne was granted unconditional bail to appear at Teesside Crown Court on January 8.

HEARING Paul Gascoigne arrives in court

More fracking tremors ENERGY firm Cuadrilla had to pause fracking in Lancashire again after more underground tremors were detected.

A series of ‘micro-seismic events’ in Blackpool were recorded on the British Geological Survey website following hydraulic fracturing at the shale gas exploration site at Preston New Road, Cuadrilla said.

The biggest of the tremors, which was felt in Blackpool, was 1.5 local magnitude, and is the largest recorded since the controversial process began in Lancashire on October 15.

The train to nowhere BRITAIN’S least used railway station has been named as British Steel Redcar.

Only 40 passengers used the North Yorkshire station in 2017-18, according to Office of Rail and Road figures.

The coke ovens and blast furnace at the nearby SSI steel plant were shut down in 2015 - leading to a drop in demand for the railway station - but there are still some people employed at the site.

Mrs Obama to return LONG FIGHT: A banner yesterday at Wild Park in Brighton where the girls’ bodies were found trial has been traumatic and heartbreaking for me and my family.

Sue Eismann, Nicola’s mother, said: “I have lived with the pain, loss and sheer hate towards him for what he had done for the last 32 years.

“Russell Bishop is a horrible, wicked man who has no thought for anyone but himself. No child is safe if he is allowed to be free.”

Mr Fellows said his relationship with his wife had been destroyed by the murder of Nicola, saying it ‘tore us apart’.

On the false accusations he has faced, he said: “Thirty-two years is a long time to be suspected of murdering your daughter.

“When they arrested and charged Bishop I thought that would be the end and we would get some closure. It did not pan out like that.

“Since the trial began I have been through every feeling imaginable from hope to sheer dread.”

MICHELLE OBAMA will bring her book tour to London’s O2 Arena next year.

The former US first lady has so far visited 10 cities across 12 dates on her tour for her autobiography Becoming, including a sold-out Royal Festival Hall.

The tour has now been extended to include another 21 events. Mrs Obama will come to the O2 Arena, which has a capacity of 20,000, on April 14.

Cannabis bill blocked A MOVE to legalise cannabis was blocked

by MPs after a 10 Minute Rule Bill was brought forward by Liberal Democrat MP Norman Lamb.

Mr Lamb said current laws are ‘cruel and inhuman’, and ‘hand billions of pounds every year to organised crime’.

He added: “This is rational, evidencebased policy-making – it’s time for this country to act on the evidence and protect children and young people from harm.”

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BUSINESS

National News

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Longer detention for Nissan bosses A COURT in Japan has ruled that Nissan’s former chairman, Carlos Ghosn, and another executive will remain in custody until December 20, more than a month after their arrest.

Tokyo District Court said it had rejected a protest filed by Ghosn’s lawyer against the prolonged detention.

The court decision came a day after Ghosn, fellow Nissan executive Greg Kelly and Nissan Motor were charged with violating financial laws by underreporting Ghosn’s pay by about 5 billion yen (£35million) from 2011 to 2015. They were arrested on November 19.

The extension of their detention is to allow time for investigations into additional allegations prosecutors issued on Monday, against Ghosn and Kelly, of underreporting another 4 billion yen (£28million) in 2016 to 2018.

Christmas sales up despite Brexit fears CONSUMERS are refusing to let Brexit uncertainty curtail their festive food plans as supermarket figures show signs of a bumper Christmas ahead.

Sales of chocolates and Brussels sprouts have already reached £292million and £18million respectively, with overall Christmas spending in December expected to reach £10billion to set a new record, Kantar Worldpanel said.

Despite an uncertain political climate taking its toll on consumer confidence, shoppers are still spending on more expensive goods, with total premium own-label lines growing at 5.5 per cent.

However, the overall grocery market grew at just 2 per cent as colder weather deterred shoppers over 12 weeks to December 2 – its slowest rate since March 2017 – as inflation fell to 1.6 per cent.

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Europe to investigate Vodafone and Liberty THE European Commission is to open an in-depth competition probe into Vodafone’s ¤18.4billion (£16.6billion) acquisition of a raft of Liberty Global assets earlier this year.

Vodafone struck a deal to acquire Liberty’s operations in Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Romania.

But the EU’s anti-trust watchdog said yesterday [Tuesday] it was concerned the takeover may reduce competition in Germany and the Czech Republic.

IT’S WORKING Employment is at its highest ever level

Boost to average earnings as employment rate rises AVERAGE earnings are at their highest level for a decade, new figures reveal.

The Office for National Statistics [ONS] reported that average earnings increased by 3.3 per cent in the year to October, up from 3.1 per cent the previous month.

It was the highest figure since 2008, and is more than the latest inflation rate of 2.4 per cent.

The ONS said average weekly earnings, adjusted for inflation, increased by 1.1 per cent, including bonuses, compared with a year ago.

Population The news coincided with record levels of employment, which increased by 79,000 in the three months to October to 32.4million, the highest since records began in 1971.

Both increases are explained by the UK’s rising population and fewer people being classed as

economically inactive, which includes those on long-term sick leave, students, and people who have given up looking for a job.

The number of economically inactive people fell by 95,000 in the latest quarter to 8.6million.

Unemployment also increased, up by 20,000 to 1.38million after a big increase in the number of men out of work, although the total is still 49,000 lower than a year ago.

The UK’s jobless rate is now 4.1 per cent, 0.2 per cent lower than a year ago.

ONS senior statistician Matt Hughes said: “The employment rate has continued to rise in the last three months, returning to a joint record high boosted by an increase in full-time workers.

“There was a corresponding fall in the inactivity rate, while the unemployment rate was virtually unchanged.

“Real earnings are now growing faster than at any time since around the end of 2016.”

Personal loans on rise PERSONAL loan rates are on the increase as households start to accumulate Christmas debts.

The average rate advertised on a £7,500 loan over five years stands at 4.8 per cent in December – the highest level since 2016, according to Moneyfacts.co.uk.

The typical rate on a loan at £5,000 over three years is now 6.8 per cent, up from 6.7 per cent in October.

A £25,000 loan paid back over five years has an average rate of 5 per cent, up 0.1 per cent from October.

Ad giant to shed jobs WPP is axing 3,500 jobs worldwide under plans to slash costs by £275million a year as it looks to turn around its fortunes.

The move will largely affect administration roles as the advertising giant looks to merge 100 offices and shut a further 80 sites.

But WPP, which employs 14,000 staff in the UK out of 130,000 globally, will also create 1,000 creative jobs.

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Letters

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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 at Runcie Court, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG Building a new theatre could boost the value of properties nearby

became serious, slammed his door and drove off. Surely it is time that this man is identified, his motives established and then given an escorted ride to the airport?

John Jude Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

Don’t take aim at game on Sundays

I refer to Nick Pope’s objections to the council buying three flats in Grove Hill House [December 5], a block next to the site of the new theatre and a building in which Cllr Pope and Dr Robert Chris, founder of the Tunbridge Wells Alliance, have substantial financial interests.

Not for the first time, I find Cllr Pope’s comments confusing and contradictory. It’s a matter of public record that the residents of Grove Hill House asked the council to either purchase their flats or compensate owners for the disruption caused by the construction of the new theatre. Now, when the council appears to accept this request, he criticises the move.

He also says the purchase will not be a good

Stop giving parking spaces to taxis Another blow for struggling central Tunbridge Wells shops and businesses. Recently, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council briefly opened a ‘consultation’ about the Traffic Regulation Orders for the proposed ‘Public Realm’ changes in Mount Pleasant Road that will lead to the removal of much of the short-term on-street parking, to be replaced largely by additional taxi spaces.

Apparently, council officials have decided that ‘it is better to provide for the needs of taxis rather than private vehicles’. How so? Could the Hackney licence fee paid by taxis to the council have anything to do with this partiality?

Interestingly, there are already taxi-only spaces dotted around the town centre which are never occupied, but are unavailable for shoppers.

The major need for taxi space is after 6pm, when they gather at the station to pick up commuters, not during shopping hours.

Short-term parking is much needed and always in demand for visiting the shops and businesses on Mount Pleasant. These vital shoppers are keeping the town centre alive (just). If spaces vanish, after a few hopeless searches for parking people will give up coming to Tunbridge Wells and seek their shopping elsewhere.

Mrs J Ellis Tunbridge Wells

Greg Clark should reconsider position The Prime Minister’s Brexit deal is the culmination of two disastrous years of negotiation in which our Government has spent

investment for local taxpayers. But I’ve had conversations with Cllr Pope in which he said the new theatre may boost the long-term value of his Grove Hill House property.

So surely this makes the purchase of the flats a good investment, and also suggests local property values could well rise once residents have a West End quality theatre nearby.

It seems Cllr Pope is determined to complain, and doesn’t mind contradicting himself when doing so.

Matthew Bailey, Tunbridge Wells ED NOTE: Cllr Pope’s wife owns a flat at Grove Hill House more time arguing with itself than pressing EU negotiators for a better deal. It has been an unforgivable mess and a national humiliation.

Sadly, our borough’s MP, Greg Clark, has been complicit in this shambles. By backing the Prime Minister, Mr Clark has aligned himself with those who would prefer to make Tunbridge Wells and the nation poorer.

Analysis from the National Institute of Economic and Social Research last month showed the deal would end up leaving the UK £100billion a year worse off. Mr Clark’s Government deal is a lot worse when compared with what we currently get as EU members.

Remaining is the best deal that we can get.

I want to hear a real explanation from Mr Clark on how he can justify taking such a reckless gamble? Brexit in any form risks the security and prosperity of this country.

Brexit is a mess so I urge Mr Clark to reconsider his opposition to a People’s Vote and let the people decide if his version of Brexit is good enough for them.

Ben Chapelard Liberal Democrat councillor for St James

About time this man caught his flight I was astonished to read that the friendly Italian man still hasn’t reached Gatwick [November 28].

I had the same experience over a year ago at Sainsbury’s, and as a joke asked if he was going to measure me to ensure that his offer of a jacket and trousers were a good fit.

But when he invited me to get into his car I

I must correct Brian Halfyard [November 28], people would not be shooting pheasants on any Sunday, let alone Remembrance Sunday, as it is illegal to shoot any game on a Sunday.

As far as I am aware, there are no clay shoots around Penshurst either. Pehaps he should look at the possibility of a farmer using a bird scarer or people helping the farmers out by controlling pigeons. Mr Halfyard should get his facts right.

M Blewden Tonbridge

Feeding pigeons is causing a flap A number of people are concerned by the health hazard caused by a certain woman, known locally as Her Ladyship, who will insist on feeding the pigeons in Sevenoaks bus station.

She also travels on the bus to Tunbridge Wells and feeds the pigeons there and in Tonbridge.

On the way back, she gets off at Tonbridge Castle to feed the birds, and then gets back on again.

The trouble is that the pigeons – effectively flying rats – leave their visiting cards and this is what constitutes the health hazard.

Recently, a man told someone off for trying to scare the pigeons away from Sevenoaks bus station. This man is presumably a member of the Flying Rats Protection Society.

One wonders why this strange organisation is seemingly unconcerned about these vermin and the health hazard which they create.

Michael Alloway Via email

Angry drivers are crossing a line here In reply to Joseph Howard [November 28] about reopening the Kent & East Sussex Railway, most people I have spoken to agree that the way to reduce the congestion on our roads is to increase public transport – like reopening old railway lines. But people then object if it inconveniences them, however slightly.

Until the 1970s, before the Robertsbridge bypass was constructed, the A21 did in fact cross the Kent & East Sussex Railway on a level crossing at Northbridge Street, Robertsbridge.

When the railway reopened the present line, it used level crossings to cross the A28 twice (at Rolvenden and Northiam stations). No one has mentioned these were ‘absurd ideas’ or objected.

The submitted plans for going over the A21 state that the modern level crossing type to be installed will close the road for less than 45 seconds, or about the time a car stands at red traffic lights or at a pedestrian controlled crossing. Trains will not run during the Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.

Do consider those that do not have a car and are only able to use public transport.

Brian Halford Via email

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

EMBARRASSING moment for a young lady out on a hot date last Tuesday night. The pair headed for Zorba, the Turkish delight in Tunbridge Wells. She was desperate to come across as the cool, sophisticated lady (that she is) and led the way into the newly extended eatery. Through the door she turned sharp left – straight into a plate glass window, causing her to bounce back into the arms of her date. The whole restaurant saw it happen, and when she ignored the pain [pane!] and humiliation and walked through the real door they clapped and cheered.

That’s all very well, but how did the date go?

BANANA WATCH: As part of Calverley’s groundbreaking, ongoing investigation into the price of a single banana (forget Brexit), we can reveal that Tesco charges 9p at regular supermarkets, but at one of its convenience stores it will cost 25p – that’s a jump of 177 per cent. Across at M&S, it’s 18p in a regular store or 40p at a convenience outlet.

(Reminder: This all started with our report of Waitrose charging 35p for single banana.)

THE DAYS when the British Empire ruled the world might be long gone, but we still have our stiff-upper-lipped body of diplomats.

A BBC series went behind the doors of the Foreign Office to give us a glimpse of what they get up to, and fascinating stuff it was.

Highlight for Calverley was the showing of top dog Sir Simon McDonald, who explained: “Diplomacy is the art of letting other people have your way.” Naturally, he has letters after his name, in this case KCMG KCVO. Why do Whitehall mandarins receive honours just for doing their job, which carries a healthy salary and gold-plated pension? What about the workers, you cry!

MAYORS do a great job and are really busy people. However, you would not know that if you checked the online diary for Tonbridge Mayor Pam Bates. Calverley took a peek after a tip-off from one of his agents and found it was last updated on July 31, showing only one entry – a planned visit to Lunsford Primary School on June 30. She’s been out and about since then; we’ve seen the pictures. Maybe there’s more than one website?

Chin Chin readers

Education

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EDUCATION Times

‘This is my chance to give back to a school that gave so much to me’ After ten years, Weald of Kent Grammar School has a new headteacher, former pupil Elizabeth Bone. Here she tells Eileen Leahy all about her vision for her alma mater AS HEADSHIP appointments go, Elizabeth Bone’s is somewhat serendipitous. The former Weald of Kent pupil who attended the school from 1990 to 1997 now finds herself at the helm of this outstanding grammar, which has sites in both Tonbridge and Sevenoaks and boasts just over 1,500 pupils.

Earlier this year, Mrs Bone had been thinking of making a change in her teaching career. After years of working at senior leadership level in a variety of schools, both selective and all ability, she felt the time was right to pursue a headship.

When a few months later Mrs Bone was contacted about applying for the role of Headteacher at her former alma mater Weald of Kent, following the departure of its previous head, Maureen Johnson, it seemed too good an opportunity to resist.

“It was a case of perfect timing,” smiles Mrs Bone as we sit down to chat in her office, which is based at the school’s original Tonbridge site on Tudeley Lane.

“I’d been a senior leader and senior deputy and an agency called me about the Weald of Kent job and it seemed that everything aligned perfectly.

‘I mean how often do you get to go to an interview and talk about your experience of your old school?

“I mean how often do you get to go to an interview and talk about your experience of your old school? That’s a very unique thing.”

The mother of one’s obvious love and passion for this school, which also has boys in the sixth form, clearly won over the board of governors as in July Mrs Bone was told she had the job.

And although she has only been in the role for a few months, her vision for the school, which was recently ranked 98th in the Sunday Times Parent Power schools list, is crystal clear.

“Weald of Kent has always been about demonstrating the love and care for each individual pupil, which then allows them to go on and do their own thing. So my job is really protecting the heart of the school.

“The first thing I said to members of staff here was that on my watch this school will never be an exam factory. That’s not what we’re about. It’s the individual care that is so important, and that’s what all my experience teaching in schools has shown – that when things work well it’s because the school, the students and the staff know and trust each other. When you walk around here you’ll see our girls smiling, and that’s very much like it was when I was here.”

She goes on to say that having the main focus on nurturing instead of mercilessly pursuing a position at the top of the league tables has resulted in pupils gaining some ‘pretty stonking results’.

“That doesn’t happen by forcing students into choices that aren’t right for them,” she continues.

“That happens by pupils finding out what they love, what their flair is. It comes from learning how to fail well and then to pick yourself up. To develop the resilience to go on and be amazing.”

Mrs Bone cites that it was exactly this type of supportive approach to learning that led to her

wanting to become a teacher herself.

“I had such a wonderful time here and I knew that I wanted to be a teacher. But I didn’t go into it straight away. I wanted to make sure I wasn’t making the choice to go on to teach because it felt so comfortable here. It was almost dangerous to leave school, go to university, then come back to school – especially when this school is such a unique experience.”

Mrs Bone worked for a couple of years in London before deciding that she did, indeed, want to pursue a career in teaching. So she worked her way up, becoming Deputy Head at Invicta Grammar School for Girls in Maidstone, and most recently Senior Deputy at Meridian High School in New Addington, Croydon. She admits her time at this ‘very different’ type of all ability school has been her biggest challenge in teaching so far.

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH A NEW VISION New Headteacher Elizabeth Bone

“Each school I had taught in until then had been Ofsted rated Good or Outstanding – or Outstanding by the time I’d left – but I felt that I had a gap in my career. I felt a need for a real challenge and wanted to turn something around, which is why I went to work at Meridian.

“When I joined it was in Special Measures, but it has since pulled itself out of that and it’s on a journey, albeit a lengthy one, but I’m so glad I was part of that. It was a very different experience, but one I’m really glad I had.”

So stepping into Mrs Johnson’s successful shoes must be like a walk in the park, then?

“Mrs Johnson has left a great legacy and I’m lucky to be stepping into her shoes, but I will be leading in my way,” Mrs Bone states.

“I want to have a look at the little things that make a difference to how people feel and how

they can perform. For example, how we can best make use of our staff time because I’d rather they spend the majority of their time with the students, so it’s looking at how we can achieve that.

It’s about more teaching and learning, and less bureaucracy and box ticking.

“I really want to emphasise how important that teacher/student time is. We have a school crammed full of amazing professionals who know how to teach their subjects. They know how to share that knowledge and that love in their particular area, and it’s really my job to let them do it.”

And she is not afraid to stand up for another thing she believes in as being key to a student’s and school’s success: “I think it’s about being brave. Saying ‘no, we’re going to do what we know is best for the individual’. I’m not going to jump through hoops for Ofsted or for league tables. I’m going to do what’s best for the girls – and the boys who are in our sixth form – and allow my staff to do the same.

The biggest challenge actually is having the courage of your convictions to say ‘no I’m not going to play this game. I’m going to do it our way’.”

And with Tonbridge Grammar just down the road, and Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar nearby, does Mrs Bone ever feel she has something to prove to the other girls’ schools in the area?

“I don’t think one is better than the other. We’re all very different and have our personalities and we all seem to do what we do very well. And for us here at Weald of Kent that centres around the individual, and the care given that allows them to exceed their expectations.”

Her predecessor, Mrs Johnson, was responsible for establishing the controversial addition of the school’s Sevenoaks Annexe, a separate site that now houses just over 200-odd girls in a state-ofthe-art building. They visit the Tonbridge site once a fortnight, while senior leaders such as Mrs Bone visit twice a week. How does she feel it has been working now the annexe is in its second year?

“If you go and spend any time there you will feel that it’s absolutely part of the same school.

“I’ve got an amazing team who’ve timetabled things beautifully. It doesn’t feel any different for the students or the staff – I mean the lunch queue is slightly shorter – but apart from that there is no difference, apart from the buildings.”

Talking of which, does Mrs Bone have plans for the Tonbridge site’s girls to make more use of the superb facilities that are on offer in Sevenoaks?

“We are looking at opportunities to send more Tonbridge pupils over,” she confirms. “We’re looking at how we can ensure that all the Sevenoaks facilities can benefit the girls here at Tonbridge, as the facilities are available for all pupils to use.

“It’s such an exciting place to work and the expertise we have around the school is astonishing. I’m very lucky to have that knowledge and support.”

But ultimately Mrs Bone is all about nurturing what Weald has at its heart – regardless of which site the pupils are on “I think it’s the opportunity to protect what is so central to a Weald education,” she says. “I benefitted from one and I want to ensure that girls and boys of the future have that same opportunity.

“This is my chance to give back to a school that gave so much to me.”

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Weekly Comment

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Greg Clark

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Greg Clark was first elected to Parliament as a representative of Tunbridge Wells in 2005. The Conservative MP has since held a number of positions in Government and currently sits as a member of the Cabinet in his capacity as Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy

MP for Tunbridge Wells

We are moving towards a deal on Brexit DURING the days ahead, Parliament must finally come to a conclusion on how Britain acts on the decision of the 2016 Referendum on Brexit. The Prime Minister has negotiated an agreement that would implement Brexit, while allowing us to continue to trade freely with the EU. It is easy to find something to criticise in the agreement, but few have put forward a credible alternative.

The time has come for MPs to say what they do want rather than only what they don’t want.

In the Cabinet and in the House of Commons, I have always made my views clear: We need to agree a deal rather than plunge into the disruption and uncertainty of an acrimonious walk-out on March 29.

We should have a close relationship with the EU in which we can continue to trade free of tariffs or border checks. We should permanently respect the rights of EU citizens who live here, and vice versa for Brits living in the EU. People should be able to continue to travel without visas for business and pleasure and we should continue to have a close co-operation in areas like education, science and research, the environment, and security.

One of the reasons why I hope that Parliament can agree a way forward is so that the country will be able to talk about things other than Brexit. If – and I understand why it has to be the case – Brexit were not so dominant, I believe that our national conversation would be more

about what an extraordinary time we are living through in the history of commerce and industry.

There is scarcely an industry in the world which is not being transformed by a revolution as great as the first Industrial Revolution. The advances in vehicles, for example, means that cars, fuelled by a petrol or diesel engine for over 100 years, will in the years ahead be powered by electricity and driven by sensors and satellites.

Integration In this second revolution, Britain is a world leader and we have some amazing beacons of local excellence. To take just three examples: I recently visited Jota Sport in Frant. In the fiercely competitive and precision-engineered world of motor racing, Jota Sport is one of the most respected and successful companies.

Childrensalon in Tunbridge Wells is a family business which has grown into one of the world’s most successful online retailers, selling from the North Farm Industrial Estate to over 160 countries across the world.

AdEPT Technology, based in Tunbridge Wells, is an award-winning telecoms and IT supplier to over 15,000 companies, schools and hospitals with one million users.

Britain, and our area in particular, is positively teeming with businesses that are successfully riding the new wave of technological innovation.

FAST MOVING BUSINESS Greg Clark visiting Jota Sport Last week we marked the first year of our Industrial Strategy - a long-term plan to build on the foundations of our success and to ensure that we press home the advantages in international markets. It includes the biggest ever increase in investment in research and development in Britain. It has introduced a new set of investment in technical skills – including new T levels as a technical alternative to A Levels, and the creation of new Institutes of Technology. It directs more help to growing

Mark Hood Vice-Chairman of the Tonbridge & Malling Green Party

businesses who sometimes struggle to access the finance to fund their expansion.

The terms of our Brexit agreement will be finally settled during the weeks ahead. If, as I am determined to ensure, we have an agreement that means we can continue to have the closest possible trading relationship with the EU, I believe we can look forward to a return to attention on the strengths that make Britain so well placed to benefit from the new industrial revolution.

Mark Hood has established the Barden Residents’ Association, is a founder member of Keep River Lawn Green, and campaigned to save the Barden Boatyard and River Lawn from development. He is also one of the organisers of the Tonbridge Calling festival

Time to end the one-party state OUR democracy is failing us, we live in an age where the ‘first past the post’ electoral system allows a party representing a minority to hold all the power in society – both at Westminster and locally. In Tonbridge & Malling [TMBC] we have seen our council defy public opinion and commit to selling off council assets, including the open space at River Lawn, Tonbridge, despite a survey showing only four per cent agreed with its sale and development as apartments.

So who is making these decisions?

Well, incredibly, only six Cabinet members are effectively running our council. Just four per cent of those surveyed thought that the Cabinet should have the final say on the council’s business, yet there are no plans to change this.

If you think that is bad for Tonbridge, consider the fact that only two are from the town and they share the same surname. This concentration of power demeans the role of ordinary councillors, and this mismatch is reflected in their allowances.

Ordinary councillors have seen their payments shrink, while the Leader of the Council and his deputy awarded themselves a £2,000 and £15,000 increase, respectively, only last year.

The Cabinet system, introduced by the Blair government along with metropolitan mayors, allows the centralisation of power in the hands

of a few. The Green Party want this system reversed and a committee system reintroduced to put power back into the hands of ordinary councillors, as has happened elsewhere.

And 81 per cent taking part in the survey wanted to see a Tonbridge Town Council established to deliver local solutions from people living here.

Most importantly, we want to see new faces in the council chamber to fight our corner.

All councillors representing the town at TMBC and Kent County Council are Conservatives.

They are forced to follow the party line or they will be deselected instead of representing the best interests of their residents.

Secrecy Our borough is effectively a one-party state with 48 Conservative councillors, four Liberal Democrats and two independent councillors, representing Borough Green.

How many residents can name their local councillors? Most have little visibility in the community. We want new, passionate independent voices to emerge next May to force a change of direction at Kings Hill.

We want an end to the secrecy which shrouds

the business of the council. Too many minutes are obscured by unnecessary censorship in the guise of ‘commercial confidentiality’.

At the moment, sensible voices, offering TOWN HALL Where Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council meet

practical cost-effective alternatives, are left unheard outside the council chamber. The only way we can influence the long-term direction of our community is to be around the table.

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TO PROPERTY, CHRISTMAS INTE RIORS & TOP TRENDS

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GEORGIAN HOME WITH A HISTORY

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ROOMS WITH A TOP VIEW

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OPENING THE DOOR ON CHRISTMAS

Playing to the gallery

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BACK TO SCHOOL – TO LIVE!

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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…

Trulls Hatch Argos Hill Rotherfield

Guide price

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n 2 further bedrooms, both en suite

n Drawing room with panelled walls

n Garage

n Mezzanine room/study with two wonderful curved leaded roof lights which were part of the original billiard room for the main house

n 2 private parking spaces

n Kitchen/breakfast room

£880,000 CONTACT • Knight Frank, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 515035 • knightfrank.co.uk

n Communal grounds of about 5 acres, leading to bridleway

n Master bedroom with en-suite shower room and door to garden

n Share of freehold

Pembury Hall The FAMILY ROOM…

Guide price

£3,950,000 CONTACT • Savills, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 507000 • savills.co.uk A beautiful 6-bedroom former rectory built in the 19th century, with features including huge sash picture windows and folding shutters with ‘door bases’, allowing direct access to the garden.

Enjoying a tucked away village location close to old Pembury church and Kent College, the property also includes a 2-bedroom coach house.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Canopied porch covered in roses n Large reception hall n Elegant drawing room n Sitting/dining room and separate study

n Swimming pool and architect-designed pool house

n Kitchen/breakfast room with electric Aga

n Gated driveway

n Huge family/games room, over 50ft long n 6 bedrooms (4 en suite) n 2-bedroom coach house apartment n All-weather tennis court

n Private garden with paved terrace

n Conservatory

The mezzanine above the kitchen/breakfast room is particularly standout in this stunningly refurbished 3-bedroom apartment. It’s the ground floor wing of a grand Victorian country house, which is part of a gated community. Other impressive character features include wood panellling and bay windows.

Old Church Road Pembury

n Visitor parking

n 2 garages n Gardens and park-like grounds of about 3.35 acres n Woodland, fields and ponds totalling about 24.3 acres

The MEZZANINE…

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Annwood Farm Nutley, Nr Uckfield

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The PRICE…

The KITCHEN…

Guide price

£2,500,000 CONTACT • Savills, Haywards Heath • 01444 446000 • savills.com

8 Dukes Drive

An impressive, extended 8-bedroom Victorian farmhouse close to Ashdown Forest with striking views and a good range of outbuildings.

Tunbridge Wells

Fixed price

£315,000

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Elegant entrance hall n Drawing room with inglenook fireplace and wood-burning stove

CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk A purpose-built, 2-double bedroom first floor flat off Bayham Road in excellent order, with an allocated parking space and use of communal grounds and amenity space.

n Dining room

n The Granary: 2/3 storerooms and loft

n Kitchen/breakfast room with 2-oven LPG gas fired Aga

n The Old Dairy: Open bay machinery store

n Sun room and cellars

n The Old Stables: Games room, kitchen, WC, stables and stores

n Triple-aspect reception room with French doors opening to a Juliet balcony, plus views to the horizon, including fields

n Heated outdoor swimming pool with terrace and pergola

n Generous kitchen overlooking fields

n Sitting room

n Master bedroom suite with with balcony and dressing room n Guest bedroom with bathroom n 6 further bedrooms, 1 with dressing room n Open hay barn with hen house

Sepham Farm

n Landscaped gardens with terrace and ornamental pond, plus paddocks n In all about 22 acres

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Entrance hall with video entryphone

n 2 bedrooms and a bathroom n Brick driveway to allocated parking n Communal garden n Amenity space with children’s play area

The FARM VIEW…

Otford Nr Sevenoaks

Price guide

£2,300,000

West Pikefish Oast

CONTACT • Lambert & Foster, Paddock Wood • 01892 832325 • lambertandfoster.co.uk Sepham Farm lies in a wonderful position between Shoreham and Otford, with outstanding views across the valley.

The farm, which has a number of potential income streams, includes a Grade II-iisted farmhouse (subject to Agricultural Occupancy Planning Restriction), a range of former farm buildings now enjoying consent for B8 Storage Use, plus farmland, woodland and lakes.

A further semi-detached cottage, currently let, is available by separate negotiation.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n A pretty farmhouse for general updating n Open-plan sitting and dining room with woodburner n 2nd sitting room with French windows opening to area approved for a new conservatory n Kitchen n Ground floor office

Pikefish Lane, Laddingford

£825,000 CONTACT • Barnes Kingsnorth, Tonbridge • 01732 771616 • bkestateagents.com A striking square-kiln Kentish oast overlooking orchards with a plethora of character features.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n 5 bedrooms and family bathroom n Large gardens

n Sitting room with brick fireplace, woodburning stove, beams and doors to patio n Study fitted with office furniture

n Enclosed tennis court

n Kitchen with space for table and chairs and door to garden

n Garage and parking area

n Impressive staircase and galleried landing

n Grade II and Grade III arable farmland extending in all to some 137.77 acres, with 11 acres of conservation orchards and 11 acres of landscaped woodland, including two lakes and a fisherman’s hut, and former farm buildings

n Master bedroom suite with vaulted ceiling, beams and walk-in wardrobe n 3 further bedrooms (2 en suite) n Garden with patio n Driveway parking and double garage

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Wyatts

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

AT A GLANCE WYATTS RECTORY DRIVE, BIDBOROUGH n An unusually complete and unspoiled Grade II-listed gentry house built around 1795 and spread over four floors n Retains many period features, including original window shutters n Drawing room with distinctive, full height, curved Regency bay, open fireplace and impressive arched doorway to dining room n Double-aspect dining room with fireplace, formerly the library n Sitting room n Kitchen/breakfast room with blue pearl granite work surfaces, larder, dresser and ornate fireplace n Cloakroom n Former lower-ground floor kitchen with its original bread oven n Family room n Study

Carefully restored 18th-century rector’s house designed by a notable architect Wyatts is a superb Georgian property built for rector Mr Brock and listed in Hasted’s historical survey of Kent.

Architect James Wyatt was a contemporary of Robert Adam. He also built Sheffield Park and extensively remodelled Windsor Castle for George III

n Laundry room and workshop n Gym n Double-aspect principal bedroom n Luxurious principal bathroom with freestanding bath and original Georgian-style fireplace n 5 further double bedrooms n Family bathroom and separate shower room n Mature gardens, including terrace and ancient yew n Driveway with parking for several vehicles n Garage and car port n In all just under 1/3 of an acre n The lower ground floor has its own entrance and offers potential for further development, subject to the necessary consents

GUIDE PRICE £1,500,000 CONTACT • Hamptons International, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 516611 • hamptons.co.uk

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

AT A GLANCE

This spacious apartment covers the whole top floor of Boyne House and the fantastic outlook can be seen from all rooms

BOYNE HOUSE BOYNE PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Penthouse apartment in a superb location with impressive views n Close to Common, town centre and mainline station n Spacious hallway n Sitting room with triple sash window, window seat and stone fireplace n Dining room with triple sash window and Victorian-style cast iron fireplace n Kitchen with large storage cupboards n 3 double bedrooms, 2 with built-in storage cupboards n Bathroom n Separate cloakroom

A chance to live the high life in a penthouse offering far-reaching views across Common and town

n Allocated parking space, plus permit parking on the road n Secure basement storage room n No chain

GUIDE PRICE £625,000 CONTACT • McAuley Miller, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 614777 • mcauleymiller.com

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Property Focus

NEW HOMES

The School House Shaftesbury Road Tunbridge Wells

£650,000 CONTACT

• Maddisons Residential, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 514100 • maddisonsresidential.co.uk

This former Victorian primary school has been beautifully converted to form 3 stylish semi-detached homes conveniently located in a no-through road in the St John’s area of Tunbridge Wells.

They offer contemporary living within an attractive 1890s building which retains many original features, yet with modern luxury fittings.

In an imaginative twist, the original school blackboard can be seen on the courtyard panelling of the particular property listed here.

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Refurbishment completed to a high standard, including aluminium doors and windows and oak floors n Accommodation spread over two floors n Period features include exposed beams, knee braces and padstones n Living room with fireplace n Spacious open-plan kitchen/diner with painted Burnhill kitchen cabinetry, quartz worktops, Neff integrated appliances, a central island and doors to courtyard garden

n Carpeted stairs with an attractive glass balustrade n 3 generously appointed bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms with Karndean design flooring, concealed shaver points and anti-mist mirrors

n Boarded loft space n Private courtyard garden laid with blue slate paving and white chippings. Also with outdoor lighting n Off-road parking for at least 3 cars

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST

n Close to Rusthall village centre n Spacious hallway with video entry system n Large, light and airy sitting room and dining area overlooking communal gardens with double doors to balcony. Plus an electric coal effect fire n Separate kitchen including four-ring electric hob, built-in Bosch oven and microwave, waste disposal, fridge freezer, dishwasher and washer/dryer n Balcony with delightful outlook over the communal gardens n Master bedroom with built-in triple wardrobe, additional walk-in cupboard and en-suite bathroom n Further double bedroom with built-in triple wardrobe

Property Focus

RETIREMENT

Muskerry Court Nellington Road Rusthall

GUIDE PRICE

£475,000

CONTACT

• Kings Estates, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533367 • kings-estates.co.uk Set in a gorgeous classical English Parkland setting towards to the edge of Rusthall village is Muskerry Court, which draws on the architectural inspiration of Royal Tunbridge Wells architect Decimus Burton and comprises a mixture of

n Shower room

cottages and apartments set around a central courtyard garden.

This spacious, 2 bedroom, 2 bath/ shower room luxury first floor apartment for the over 55s is in a building with a lift and has its own balcony and garage.

It also incorporates a host of practical details designed to make life easier and more convenient as you grow older.

Notable features include a personal alarm system, thermostatically controlled underfloor heating and anti-slip vinyl flooring in kitchen and bathrooms. Plus a guest suite for visitors.

The resident Courtyard Managers ensure a high standard of grounds and building maintenance and offer neighbourly support.

n Loft storage space n Nearby garage en bloc with electric door, power and light n Visitors’ parking available n Well tended and extensive communal gardens n Comfortable guest suite for use by residents’ visitors n Communal laundry room with washing machines and dryers n Resident Courtyard Managers n Close circuit television, enhancing security n Please note there is an annual service and maintenance charge. Consult selling agent Kings Estates for details

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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Interiors

Move

WITH THE

Times 39

BEST WREATHS this season Ensure your home is suitably seasonal from the outside with one of these festive wreaths. They also look pretty good inside, over a mantelpiece or on a door…

Champagne Metal Leaf Wreath, £200 lauraashley.co.uk

IMAGE COURTESY OF DUNELM: dunelm.co.uk

DECK THE HALLS

Lit Eucalyptus & Pinecone Wreath, £25 marksandspencer.com

First impressions count. After we showed you how to make a Christmas wreath last week, Eileen Leahy finishes the look with top tips and buys to ensure your home is fabulously festive upon opening the front door…

THE hallway is the first space visitors see when they enter into a home, so it has to make a good first impression – especially at Christmas.

A cold, drab welcome won’t put guests into the festive spirit, so when you’re trimming your tree or festooning fragrant greenery about the place, take the time to think about how you can enhance your hallway so people can come in from the cold and enter a winter wonderland.

A word of warning, though. Don’t make the mistake of going overboard with decorations.

A little dash of festive frivolity is what you’re after. This can be achieved by wrapping foliage or fairy lights around a banister, putting up a small Christmas tree, or grouping together seasonal flowers, such as white poinsettias, cyclamen or clusters of scented candles.

A beautiful homemade floral arrangement sitting on the hall table is another effortless and inexpensive way to add instant decoration. How about sourcing pine cones from your garden or local park and displaying

them in a bowl? Or loop them through some pretty ribbon and hang them up.

‘If you want to go down the floral route, the good news is you don’t need to be hugely greenfingered – just use your imagination’

If you want to go down the floral route, the good news is you don’t need to be hugely green-fingered – just use your imagination.

Buy an oasis ring from your local florist or garden centre and generously fill it with lots of fern, holly,

eucalyptus and bright red berries.

For a gorgeously fragrant creation, add bundles of cinnamon sticks, fir cones or fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme.

Alternatively, simply fill a big bowl with oranges studded with cloves and trimmed with brightly coloured ribbons. Not only will this look super pretty, it will scent your entrance space perfectly, too.

A few decorative enhancements on your banister or tree will also work wonders, or you could make your own creations.

Gather different sized baubles and join them together by threading through long lengths of velvet or silk ribbon.

Enhance your hallway further with some low-level lighting, such as votives and church candles. These will create a perfect ambience at nighttime.

By adding these little festive flourishes, you’ll create a wonderfully warm and inviting welcome for all.

Just don’t forget the mistletoe!

Pinecone Wreath, £10 paperchase.co.uk

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Curtain up on Christmas It’s officially panto season, so Eileen Leahy profiles the best shows on offer and talks to Wicked’s Tom Swift about why he’s so passionate about pantomime…

T

IS the season to visit the theatre and enjoy one of the numerous pantomimes and Christmas productions that our area has to offer. In this particular corner of Kent we are spoilt with not just one popular panto but two to go and see – in Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells – as well as a festive theatrical alternative for audiences of all ages to enjoy.

If you’re into traditional pantomime, then you have a couple of very big shows to choose from – oh yes you do! In Tonbridge, the ever popular Wicked Productions pantomime takes place at the EM Forster Theatre from this coming Saturday, December 15, until January 6.

This year, its director and star Tom Swift puts on Jack and the Beanstalk for his loyal audiences, who come from far and wide to see his shows.

Why did he decide to do this one?

“Well I’ve never done Jack and the Beanstalk and it’s my all-time favourite panto – I absolutely love it,” he says, as I grab a few minutes on the phone with him during his busy rehearsal time in the weeks leading up to the show.

“The nice thing with these stories is that they’re quite basic but you can have some real fun with them. There’s a twist to this one which will bring it up to date, but I don’t want to reveal what that is exactly as I don’t want to give too much away,” he teases.

WAHAY! ANOTHER WICKED REHEARSAL Michael Fenton Stevens (left) with Tom (front) and the rest of the cast What Tom will say is that there are ‘two big moments for the audience to enjoy, but again to go into too much detail would be to spoil things’.

It’s fair to say that over the past few years Tom and his team have created a real buzz around their productions, which started life in Southborough’s Royal Victoria Hall.

Once that was demolished three years ago, Wicked Productions were fortunate to find a new home at the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge.

Tom, who has written 13 panto scripts to date and funds all the productions himself, positively relishes the challenge each year of sustaining his pantomimes’ popularity.

“The key thing is to make sure it’s not scary – it has to be magic and not evil,” he explains.

‘There are two big moments for the audience to enjoy, but to go into too much detail would be to spoil things’

READY TO CUT IT! Tom Swift as Jack Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk

“I’ve worked 600 hours or so on the script since June.

I literally start with a blank page, then write down where I want to go with the story. As I have written 13 scripts so far, I can’t repeat anything I’ve done before in previous shows.”

Tom, who plays Jack Trott in this year’s panto, says that content comes to him at all times of the day – and night: “A new routine can come to me at 2am when I’m trying to sleep! I quickly get up and write it down. If a few hours later you’re still laughing at it, then it’s funny.

“But it’s quite a hard job to be funny, actually,” he continues. “Especially when it’s your production company.

You have to do every performance exactly the same, which is how it should be, and I expect the rest of the cast to do the same.”

Joining Tom again this year, as principal dame, is veteran actor and star of recent shows such as The Crown and Benidorm Michael Fenton Stevens, who lives in Tunbridge Wells and who will be taking on the role of Dame Trott.

“I love Michael, he’s got that comedy timing that you just can’t teach. It’s always a joy in the rehearsal room to say ‘Go on Mike, do your thing’. He’ll improvise on stage and that’s so good for me – and he’s glad to be back again.”

As much fun as it sounds, does Tom ever find it allconsuming? “Well, yes, as we have two other pantos happening at the same time in Gravesend and Margate.”

In fact, while we chat Tom is actually en route to Gravesend to turn on their Christmas lights. He says he co-directs the two other productions to ensure they’re up

to Wicked’s ‘silly standards’. But he won’t be performing in either of them as he and his wife Amanda had a baby girl seven months ago, so this year Tom’s sole acting role will be in Jack and the Beanstalk.

“Having a baby changed my outlook on a lot of life,” he admits. And Amanda, who usually stars alongside her husband ever year, won’t be doing so in 2018.

Instead, her original part of Anne will now be played by Shivonne Donavan.

“It’s a very silly show this year,” explains Tom. “I think people expect to laugh a lot at panto, but this is ridiculous!

We always want the audience to know we’re having fun. If a baddie is dressed up as a farmer, for example, we’ll say ‘are you sure you’re not a baddie dressed up a baddie?’ We also cater for the adult audience, but it’s never anything dirty, it just goes over kids’ heads!”

Tom is also very pleased to be back performing at the EM Forster Theatre: “I absolutely love the place! The staff really get behind what we do, and hopefully we can stay there for as long as possible.”

In terms of there being any rivalry between his show and the Assembly Hall’s, which this year is Sleeping Beauty starring Claire Sweeney and Derek Moran, Tom is quick to dismiss any kind of competition.

“I’m happy to support all the pantos. I have a very good relationship with the Assembly Hall, we do our Easter shows there. But I have to say that our pantomime offering is a bit more homegrown and the cast are mainly from the Tunbridge Wells area. Our scripts are a little sillier and we don’t take it so seriously!

“We have lots of hardcore fans who love to get their tickets early and I’m massively grateful for that.

“I couldn’t do what we do without an audience.

They’re why we do this – it’s for them.

“We always get lots of lovely comments, like people saying it’s so great to see their kids belly laughing.

“I love our Wicked followers.”

THE CHRISTMAS SHOW CALENDAR

• SLEEPING BEAUTY is on at the Assembly Hall, Tunbridge Wells, until January 2. Tickets are available from the Tunbridge Wells Gateway or assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk • JACK AND THE BEANSTALK is on at the EM Forster Theatre from December 15 until January 6. Tickets are available from emforstertheatre.com • An alternative to panto, THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS, is on at Trinity Theatre from December 13 until January 2. Tickets are available from trinitytheatre.net

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

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What’s on elsewhere SLEEPING BEAUTY At the Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall there’s Sleeping Beauty, which stars Loose Women panellist and former Brookside stalwart Claire Sweeney as Carabosse, children’s TV’s Milkshake presenter Derek Moran as Silly Billy, and the returning Quinn Patrick as the show’s grand ‘Dame’.

“This is set to be our best panto to date,” enthused an Assembly Hall spokesperson after the show launched on Friday.

The cast also includes Caitlin McNerney in the title role as The Sleeping Beauty, Michael Vinsen as The Prince and Laura Mullowney as The Good Fairy.

BEAUTY AND SOME BEASTS The Sleeping Beauty cast ready for a (possibly) rude awakening!

Last year, the theatre staged the record-breaking production of Aladdin, which was the first time the Assembly Hall had collaborated with Martin Dodd for UK Productions. So successful was this partnership, the two teamed up again to present Sleeping Beauty, another fairy-tale classic, set in a land far, far away.

If you’re not familiar with the story, it centres around a beautiful princess who is cursed by a wicked fairy to a hundred years’ sleep – until she is awakened by true love’s kiss…

This magical story will be further enhanced by catchy songs and stunning sets and costumes, as well as some majestic special effects.

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Every year, Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells offers a theatrical antidote to traditional panto by staging a Christmas production.

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Over the past few years the theatre’s Director John Martin and his team have staged hugely successful versions of Oliver! Cinderella and The Wizard of Oz. This year they are putting on Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes’ adaptation of The Wind in the Willows, which is based on the children’s classic Toad of Toad Hall by AA Milne. The production starts tomorrow night (Thursday, December 13) and runs until January 2.

The theatre’s Musical Director, Tony Stenson, promises it’s going to be another huge hit for Trinity. “Those who know what Trinity’s productions are like won’t be disappointed, and those who don’t will be in for a real treat!” he promises.

“I am hoping everyone who comes to see it will go away with happy memories that will stay with them for a long time.”

PARP, PARP! Full speed ahead for The Wind in the Willows

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

goingout 7 days of activities

WEDNESDAY There are just a couple of days left to see the Picture as it is 2 exhibition at the G&C Gallery in Camden Road. This solo show by artist Li Mang is well worth a visit, not only because the work is so well executed but because just a few minutes browsing around it is a perfect antidote to all that Christmas shopping stress.

Stuck for some original Christmas gift ideas?

Then why not visit Discover the Art of Christmas at the Pantiles Pop Up Gallery? A group of established local artists and makers have taken

By Eileen Leahy

over No 36 The Pantiles to showcase their work until December 22. It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm and on Sundays from 11am-4pm.

Over in Tonbridge you can enjoy a similar style event courtesy of Tonbridge Creates, a pop-up arts hub that is on every day until December 19.

The hub showcases the creative talents of local artists and encourages the local community to get involved. You can enjoy a host of free and paid-for workshops, as well as an exhibition by talented creative students at West Kent College.

LUXURY CHRISTMAS GIFT TREAT A festive experience cooked by by The Ivy and Hoopers

CONCERT-ED FUN Children’s group Kidenza perform at Sevenoaks School

THURSDAY

The selfie bear Mr Magic welcomes visitors to take their pictures with him at Royal Victoria Place – and also to donate to the ellenor charity, which looks after people with a terminal illness.

Located on the second floor of the shopping centre, opposite Marks & Spencer, this is a great way to have a break and a bit of fun while you’re out Christmas shopping. Find out more about Mr Magic at ellenor.org While you’re there, why not pay a visit to Santa’s Grotto, also located in Royal Victoria Place until Christmas Eve? For ticket information and group bookings, go to royalvictoriaplace.com At 6.30pm, you have the chance to meet broadcaster Anna Cookson at Tunbridge Wells library. The presenter will be talking about her career on the BBC Radio Kent Breakfast Show and introducing her debut novel, The Sound of Your Soul. Tickets cost £4 and booking is essential. For more details, telephone 03000 41 31 31 or email: tunbridgewellslibrary@kent.gov.uk Trinity Theatre’s much anticipated Christmas production Wind in the Willows starts this evening at 7.30pm. Based on the children’s classic Toad of Toad Hall, this particular version is the one penned by Downton Abbey’s creator, Julian Fellowes, and promises to be a really enjoyable evening out. For tickets and timings, visit trinitytheatre.net

FRIDAY

Children’s classical concert group Kidenza will be hosting two concerts today (and a workshop) at Sevenoaks School at 2pm and 4pm. Suitable for all ages, and a great introduction to orchestral music, the concerts cost £10 per child and £15 per adult.

There will also be an hour-long workshop at 12.30pm and 2.30pm, for which tickets cost £10.

For further details, see kidenza.co.uk Bedgebury Pinetum’s Christmas spectacular is also underway. But make sure you wrap up warm to walk through the stunning illuminated forest and colourfully lit trees and shrubs! To cosy up afterwards you can toast some marshmallows in one of the route’s many firepits, or enjoy a quick kiss under the special Mistletoe Moment. Tickets cost £10.50 for children aged 5-16 and £17 for adults. Visit christmasatbedgebury.seetickets.com The Assembly Hall’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, which stars Claire Sweeney, Derek Moran and Quinn Patrick, is now in full swing. You can find out about all the show’s timings and ticket prices by visiting assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk – oh yes you can!

SATURDAY Talking of pantos, Wicked Productions begin their run of Jack and the Beanstalk today at the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge. For tickets, visit emtheatre.com – See also our exclusive interview with Tom Swift in our pantomime round-up on pages 50-51

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

If you fancy getting out and about this weekend in order to get into the spirit of Christmas, why not pay a visit to Hever Castle? In the grounds visitors can discover a festive trail themed around the Charles Dickens classic novel A Christmas Carol, and wander through the illuminated gardens as dusk falls. Daytime Christmas prices: adult £17.25, children (5-15) £9.75, under-5s free.

Visit hevercastle.co.uk Groombridge Place also has Father Christmas present in his authentic log cabin. Enjoy face painting and Christmas craft activities, and take a walk through the Adventure Forest to find the giant swings, wooden ship and rope bridges at Crusoe’s World. Open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December. For more details, see groombridgeplace.com Penshurst Place’s enchanting Christmas Grotto is proving to be very popular. Children can see Santa in his sleigh, surrounded by his elves, and visit his old-fashioned toy workshop to receive a gift. Tickets cost £14.50 per child, and up to two adults can accompany each child free of charge.

For tickets and timings, visit penshurstplace.com

SUNDAY Staying at Penshurst Place, there will be another of its Roasts and Rambles events happening

today. This time the discussion at lunchtime will centre around Christmas in the Baron’s Hall.

Tickets are limited for each event and are priced at £21.50 each for adults and £9.50 for children aged 5 to 12, with under-5s free. Tickets can be booked by calling 01892 871053 or emailing: kudos@penshurstplace.com Over at One Warwick Park Hotel, there’s another suitably seasonal theme happening with the Dine With Santa event this lunchtime. Visitors can enjoy a festive three-course lunch suitable for the whole family, while Father Christmas makes his way round to hear all about the children’s Christmas wish lists. For further details and to book, go to onewarwickpark.co.uk At 4pm at St Peter & St Paul’s Church in Tonbridge there will be Lessons and Carols with the choir, and then at 5.30pm a carol service at St Philip’s Church, where mince pies and mulled wine will be served.

MONDAY If you’re on you way to ice skate at Calverley Grounds, why not make some extra time to visit Santa’s Grotto? Tickets cost £14.50 per child and include a mounted photo and gift. Other ticket options are available. Visit fatherchristmasinkent. co.uk and tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

TUESDAY

EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY See Li Mang’s exhibition at the G&C Gallery

Ensure your Christmas shopping is as pleasant as possible by taking part in The Ivy’s luxury gift experience in collaboration with Hoopers. The idea is to give shoppers an ‘exclusive luxury experience’.

First you relax and unwind in the department store enjoying two indulgent experiences, including a styling and salon appointment, then you have a Champagne afternoon tea at The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells. Available Monday to Friday, tickets are priced £60 per person. Call Hoopers on 01892 530 222 to reserve your spot.

Going Out

PICK OF THE WEEK:

Bewl Water’s Christmas Experience Every weekend until December 24 £35 per child, £18 per adult bewlwater.co.uk

This Christmas revel in a truly magical time at the Bewl Water courtesy of their Christmas Experience in association with Childrensalon.

Your adventure begins as soon as you arrive as families can enjoy festive fun with the

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cheeky Elves and spend quality time with Father Christmas in his cosy grotto.

The magic doesn’t stop there. All the family can skate on the ‘Magic Ice’ rink. The children can make the most of the fairground rides, with unlimited turns, and everyone can enjoy warming up by toasting marshmallows and making s’mores [a nighttime campfire treat] at the firepit.

With the Magic Wishing Tree, Christmasthemed crafts, soft play, secret woodland wonderland and many more photo opportunities, this really is the perfect festive experience to create magical memories with your family.

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Going Out

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles.

Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday & Thursday DJ Stepper Friday Over The Edge Saturday Disco Odyssey Sunday Guy Sharpe, Skippy Gonzalez, Alex Van

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Flawless Carbon

THE BEDFORD

live music With Paul Dunton

T

ONIGHT [Wednesday], the excellent Flawless Carbon will be headlining at The Bedford Pub, and on Thursday, the Winter Sessions at The Ice Rink in Calverley Grounds features popular local soloists Laura Lamn, Meg Lawrenson and Oscar Roche. On the same evening, The Forum hosts King 810, Puppy and Deadly Rhythm.

Friday night sees Over The Edge return to The Grey Lady Music Lounge, and JC Palmer headlining at The Sussex Arms Basement with support from Torso. Meanwhile, renowned singer-songwriter MaryJess will be performing at Penshurst Church. Mary-Jess has featured on 14 albums, and her rendition of Abide with me at the FA Cup Final was heard by a live audience of

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

90,000. She has performed with Sir Tim Rice, Blake and Don Black, toured with Russell Watson – and she also won the Chinese version of The X Factor. Mary-Jess will be joined by Oscar Smith, renowned for his amazing use of harmonics, and a choir assembled by Oscar from his widespread musical contacts in Kent and Sussex.

On Saturday night, Steffan James is at The Trading Post, Wayne Bridle at The Beau Nash Tavern and The Heartbeats play The Royal Oak Pub. If you are out Christmas shopping, look out for The Cool Jazz Quartet on Saturday afternoon in Chapel Place.

Alex Van, Guy Sharpe and Skippy Gonzalez are all at The Grey Lady on Sunday, and The Beau Nash will be hosting its Open Mic Night.

2 High Street Free entry, music from 8.30pm Wednesday Flawless Carbon Monday Bullet Promotions Xmas Extravaganza: TW3, Jason Lines, Ryan Weeks

THE ICE RINK Calverley Grounds Open all day, music from 7pm Thursday Laura Lamn, Meg Lawrenson, Oscar Roche

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH Penshurst Tickets £15 on the door, or £35 ‘meet and greet’ at 6.30pm from mary-jess.com Friday Mary-Jess

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM The Common Event information at twforum.co.uk Friday Tim Cullen Presents: Switch featuring Strickland Saturday Back To The 80s Tuesday Word Up Christmas Slam

THE SUSSEX ARMS BASEMENT

THE TRADING POST

Sussex Mews Event information at twforum.co.uk Friday JC Palmer, Torso Saturday All the Above, Seething Akira, All My Friends Are Going Deaf

5 Culverden Down Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Saturday Steffan James

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Wayne Bridle Sunday Open Mic Night

THE ROYAL OAK Prospect Road Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday The Heartbeats

CHAPEL PLACE Chapel Place Free entry, Music 1pm-4pm Saturday Cool Jazz Quartet

THE GEORGE Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Monday TWUNTS Ukulele Jam Session

THE PUNCH & JUDY 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday The Bourne Valley Boys

TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB The Flying Dutchman, Hildenborough Hat collection with suggested contribution of £7 (£5 concessions).

Music from 8pm. More information at tonbridgefolkclub.org Monday The Nonesuch Mummers

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Why healthy eating

is big business

Food fan Jo Banks, who lives in West Kent, launched her company Alive with Flavour three years ago and has seen it go from strength to strength. Here she tells Eileen Leahy why eating healthily is both achievable and enjoyable, whatever the time of year…

W

TAKING A QUICK COFFEE BREAK Busy Jo Banks

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

E’RE officially now in full seasonal swing, where chocolate advent calendar treats often replace a proper breakfast, or endless trays of tempting canapés and flutes of fizz become the norm at the end of the day. In short, Christmas is a time of year when, for most, the wheels come off with regard to eating sensibly – but after the festivities are over, how about making sure that your everyday diet changes for good?

Local food blogger Jo Banks set up her company, Alive with Flavour, with just this culinary premise in mind.

“I started it three years ago, and the idea was based around the importance of creating healthy but flavoursome dishes,” she tells me.

But what was key, she goes on to say, was that they also had to be ‘fuss free and unpretentious’ dishes.

“There were – and still are – a lot of complicated cookery shows on TV,

AIR AND THERE: Jo shares pumpkin recipes with former MP Lembit Öpik on BBC Radio Kent such as MasterChef, and I felt that people were becoming scared of how to approach food,” Jo explains. “I wanted to offer an alternative and show people there are simple ways to cook and enjoy food which don’t need to be a Michelinstyle standard.”

‘I love bringing people together and frequently facilitate events, such as food festivals, supper clubs and tasting tours’ Jo says that the other key aims with Alive with Flavour were to improve and build upon their classic recipe repertoire, but to also ‘give people the confidence to experiment with food’.

“I love experimenting,” says Jo. “I love finding new foods and am lucky enough to be often ahead of the curve on this.

“I was working with edible insects a while ago, and just last month Sainsbury’s have now taken

FOOD CAN BE FUN FOR KIDS, TOO: Jo loves to involve youngsters when running a stall at events to selling grubs! You can be sure edible insects will find their way into our major supermarkets very quickly now.”

As her business’s name would suggest, there’s so much more to eating well than just pushing a lettuce leaf around the plate. It’s about embracing a whole new approach to getting your five a day – and more – by creating dishes that are literally ‘alive’ with tons of interesting flavours.

This, for example, could be achieved by including more tasty herbs and seasoning in your creations, ensuring that you eat seasonally

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk to maximise your taste experience, or seeking out some interesting new ingredients. In other words, don’t be afraid to get adventurous!

But as well as coming up with simple and delicious dish ideas for people to follow, Jo says that Alive with Flavour has the additional aim of educating people. She does this not only courtesy of her numerous blog posts, but also through the many personal appearances she has made at local foodie events and supper clubs – like her recent vegan one – and on the radio, too.

“I love bringing people together and frequently facilitate many events, such as food festivals, supper clubs and tasting tours. I launched Alive with Flavour because I spotted a need for a business that would help people understand more about food in a friendly way.”

Jo certainly has a wealth of support for her business. She often works with both emerging and established chefs, such as Will Devlin from The Small Holding in Kilndown, as well as the Kent Farmers’ Market Association and local food companies to ‘discover new trends, work with unusual ingredients and promote local produce’.

“It’s fair to say there is never a dull moment!”

Jo laughs. “I am a busy lady, but I enjoy the juggling act and love the variety of all the work I am involved in. I think that my ability to cope with competing demands comes from my experience of working as a PA, which seems like a lifetime ago now.”

So what does the former personal assistant think she has achieved over the past three years, and what are her goals for 2019?

“Hopefully, Alive with Flavour is changing peoples’ taste buds and showing them the fantastic opportunities that food offers – not only in the experience of cooking, but also in bringing people together,” confirms Jo. “I love my work. There is nothing better for me than presenting new ways of developing food and seeing the way that it inspires people. It is a big part of our lives, after all. I guess I just believe that all food should be ‘Alive with Flavour’.”

To find out more about Jo and Alive with Flavour, visit her website, alivewithflavour.com

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drink

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Pass the port…

Times Drinks Editor James Viner says you should make these two Christmassy bottles your ports of call. Feliz Natal!

1) TANGY AND NUTTY SUB £15 HIGH-STREET CHOICE

1

Co-op 10-Year-Old Tawny Port, Portugal £14, The Co-op A long-time highlight of the Co-op range, this superb, poised, wood-matured port is made by David Guimaraens, the adept head winemaker of Taylor’s Fladgate, Fonseca and Croft, and brims with flavours of dried fruits, Brazil nuts, caramel, orange peel and roasted coffee. Serve around 10°C-12°C with blue cheese, nuts, mature Gouda, salted almonds, crème brûlée, Christmas pudding or mince pies.

Pure pleasure. Alcohol 20%

2) MUST-TRY SINGLE QUINTA (FARM) SUB £30 VINTAGE PORT SUPERSTAR

Taylor’s Quinta de Vargellas 2002 Port, Portugal £24.99 offer until January 1, Waitrose There’s an agreeable black fruit and prune core to this debonair, warm and spicy port, which has good weight, plus coffee, liquorice, cigar box and pepper complexity.

It’s textured and simply delicious. Great to drink while sitting by a roaring fire and a clever match for bitter chocolate, Manchego, Cashel Blue and Gorgonzola.

One for your busy decanter (add the sediment to gravy). Incredible value on offer. Alcohol 20.5% Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

A Latin American dining island here in The Weald

TOP TEAM Andrés and Kate

With new pub owners Andrés Villamagua and Kate Edom having been at their idyllic location in Cousley Wood for nearly six months, we caught up with them to hear how the Galapagos restaurant at The Old Vine has bought a South American twist to the local hostelry…

How did you both come to be running a restaurant called Galapagos in the middle of the East Sussex countryside?

Kate: Andrés and I have been friends for a few years. I was working in banking in Canary Wharf and Andrés was running a Mediterranean restaurant with a Latin twist in Greenwich with his brother.

I started to help Andrés with some of the administration and marketing work, and found I really enjoyed exploring a whole different world of food and hospitality.

I had been looking for a new venture to entice me away from the City for some time, and with Andrés’ background as a chef and restaurateur he was certainly the right business partner.

Andrés: I was enjoying running the Mediterranean restaurant with my brother, but I wanted to focus on the authentic Latin cuisine of my homeland in South America.

I realised the combination of mine and Kate’s backgrounds and skills meant we could bring a very different dining experience to our customers.

How would you describe the food?

Andrés: I love to travel and I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively across South America and Europe.

In each country I visit, I try to learn as much as I can about the food. I seek out the best chefs and have on occasion driven very long distances to sample the best dishes in an area.

At Galapagos I aim to bring together all of the dishes and techniques that I have gathered on my visits to Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, and of course my home country of Ecuador.

Kate: The food that Andrés grew up cooking with his mum and grandmother is the basis for the food we serve here.

Andrés’s passion for food is incredible, he works tirelessly to ensure the authenticity and quality of the food we serve to our customers.

Can you tell us more about learning about food on your travels?

Andrés: Yes, it’s fascinating to be able to speak to people and learn about their culture and their food. We share our

knowledge as chefs, and I love to question everything in the kitchen. I can always learn something and I love to see varying techniques. I’m always learning from my own family in Ecuador, too.

When my mum is here in the UK we cook together, and when I return home I cook with family and friends.

Has anyone been a particular influence on your cooking style?

Andrés: I am original in my cooking and I always try to keep it that way. I don’t copy anyone, and while I may like celebrity chefs, such as Rosemary Shrager who recently met up with, I am not influenced by any other styles.

Having Rosemary come here was lovely as she loved the food, and it was so nice to speak to her.

Kate: It was an absolute

‘We have also achieved 5-star Casque Mark status for our ales. We are still a pub, and it is just as important that the beer is as high a quality as the food’

pleasure to meet Rosemary, she was charming and very interested in what we are doing and gave us lots of praise and encouragement.

Rosemary was keen for us to get a photo of her and Andrés together, and gave us a lovely quote for our website.

She ordered the Encocado de Pescado and loved the fish. Andrés insists on top quality ingredients, which is a big part of the secret to good food.

Where do you source meat and fish?

Kate: All of our beef is Argentinian, imported from Argentina through a supplier based at Smithfield meat market in London. All our other meat comes locally from Chart Farm at Seal Chart near Sevenoaks.

Once or twice a week, depending on how busy we are, Andrés gets up at 3am to go to Spitalfields market to get the South American fruit and vegetables, and calls in at Billingsgate for the fish.

Andrés: Recently, a customer asked me the secret to the Carriucho de Pollo, the chicken in peanut butter sauce. Simple,

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

I told him, the secret is the quality of the meat. He was amazed to hear that. The ingredients for the sauce are fairly simple and he couldn’t believe there was nothing more to it.

What would you order as a guest?

Andrés: I love it all, and I’d say that the menu is so diverse that everyone will have a different favourite depending on preference and taste.

Personally, I would go for the Ceviche as a starter – any of the three versions we offer, Ecuadorian with prawns, Peruvian with white fish and Vegetarian with heart of palm.

The empanadas are also great, I use finely sliced Argentinian steak as opposed to traditional mincemeat so it’s a classic but with a twist.

Kate: I love a steak so you can’t beat the Bife Ancho, the Argentinian Rib-Eye steak or the Lomo Saltado, which is a pan-fried fillet steak with Peruvian spices. … And what would you drink?

Kate: We offer both the South American wines and the more traditional wines, such as sauvignon or pinot.

We have also achieved 5-star Casque Mark status for our ales.

We are still a pub, and it is just as important that the beer is as high a quality as the food.

Andrés: South American wines are richer and it took a little longer for them to take off, but I knew we had to stick with it and we would be successful.

I wouldn’t like to say which to pair with which dish. It’s very much a personal taste.

There are days I could happily have a red wine with my fish.

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Advertising Do you get many people coming here just for drinks?

Kate: Yes, we really want to encourage people to come along for a drink, we are still a local pub.

On weeknights you will find Cousley Wood residents sat at the bar enjoying an evening drink, and during the summer the rear garden and the benches across the front of the building play host to lots of customers enjoying a summer drink.

Andrés: We have groups that will order a bottle of wine to drink in the pub area by the fire before moving to their table for dinner.

We really like the way it works as a reception area to the restaurant.

Sunday lunch is popular for that sort of thing as it’s great pub food but with a twist.

they wished they knew we were open before paying a deposit elsewhere!

Andrés: They can always join us next Christmas! We’ve only been here six months so there’s plenty of time.

‘Andrés’s passion for food is incredible, he works tirelessly to ensure the authenticity and quality of the food we serve to our customers’

What does the future hold for Galapagos at The Old Vine?

Kate: We are in the process of making our plans for 2019 and have a few firm fixtures already in the diary, including a very exciting wine tasting event coming up on January 31. It’s limited to 20 people so it’s first come, first served for the tickets!

Andrés: Jóse Pacheco, our friend and wine supplier, will share his knowledge of the wines and we will taste a few of these on their own before matching others to the food.

We want everyone attending to be able to try the wine and food and get a chance to discuss them and the combinations with Jóse.

Are you all set for Christmas?

Kate: Prior to us arriving, the pub had only opened for a couple of hours for drinks on Christmas Day and many people weren’t expecting us to be open for lunch.

This year we are open from midday to 6pm and we do have bookings for Christmas Lunch – impressive considering we arrived around the time people were first starting to make their Christmas arrangements.

A few of our customers have said

Tell us a little about the artwork around the building…

Andrés: My dad has been an exhibiting artist all his life and he visited us here earlier this year and painted all of the canvases in the pub for us. We’ve a book here about his life and work which is also for sale, it’s a great talking point.

Kate: Andrés can often be found in the restaurant talking to our customers – it’s great for him to get feedback on the food and to hear people’s opinions. The artwork, as well, really works in this building and brings it to life.

Visit galapagos-restaurant.co.uk For tickets to the wine tasting, call 01892 782271 or email: info@ galapagos-restaurant.co.uk

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Books

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Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Book Case This week’s bookcase includes reviews of Wolves Of Winter by Tyrell Johnson, and Flames by Robbie Arnott.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

House Of Glass

by Susan Fletcher

8/10

PA PHOTO/VIRAGO

Published in hardback by Virago, priced £16.99 (ebook £8.99). Available now It is summer 1914, and life is changing for Clara Waterfield and England. Hopelessly naive, and mourning her mother, our sheltered narrator is summoned to Gloucestershire to create a greenhouse the country will envy. But at Shadowbrook, bodiless footsteps sound at night, flowers shed their petals within hours, and the master of the house never wanders the sprawling gardens he supposedly loves.

Determinedly atheist, Clara is keen to explain these unnerving goings on, and clear up the rumours swirling around the prior occupants. Who was Veronique, whose malevolent presence is said to haunt the creaking house, and why was her family so hated? These questions unwittingly lead Clara to unearth personal truths she had not expected to confront.

Fletcher skillfully constructs a world where war looms with a heavy inevitability, where rumours twist and strangle like vines, and the most straightforward of scenarios are riddled with deceit.

(Review by Jemma Crew)

7/10

Flames by Robbie Arnott

Published in hardback by Atlantic Books, priced £12.99 (ebook £6.02). Available now Flames is a bold piece of writing that will leave any reader yearning to visit the wild Australian landscape of Tasmania.

Robbie Arnott takes his native island as the setting and injects it with a magic realist flair that will appeal to fans of Karen Russell and Angela Carter. Loosely speaking, it tells the story of the McAllister family. After Charlotte and Levi’s mother dies, she is briefly reincarnated only to burst into flames on their father’s lawn. As Levi begins to worry that the same thing will happen to his sister, he becomes manically obsessed with building her a coffin. Charlotte meanwhile hits the road, disappearing into the most remote parts of the island. Each chapter is written in the voice of a different character, some only tangentially connected to the main thread, giving it some of the breadth of a short story collection. Some sections, like the diary entries of a wombat keeper slowly descending into madness, could serve as standalone stories. Others, like the slightly cliched private detective, serve only to push the plot forward. It is glorious, messy, and a bit weird. But it works.

(Review by Alys Key)

The Wolves Of Winter

by Tyrell Johnson

Published in paperback by HarperCollins, priced £7.99 (ebook £4.99). Available now In today’s materialistic world this book asks: What would you do if the world as you know it disappears? This is the fate that Lynn McBride, protagonist of The Wolves of Winter, faces after nuclear war and a deadly flu pandemic wipes out the modern world. In his debut novel, Tyrell Johnson tells the story of one family’s quest for survival in the bleak winter landscape of the Yukon. He creates an all-too believable world, so much so that you feel you could almost be there. Exciting and gripping, though at times a little predictable, this is the perfect book to curl up with in front of the fire on a cold winter’s day.

(Review by Rachael Dunn)

PA PHOTO/HARPERCOLLINS

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7/10

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NON-FICTION

Books

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CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE WEEK

7/10

Courage Calls To Courage Everywhere

by Jeanette Winterson

9/10

The Snowman

by Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Robin Shaw

Named after the words featured on Gillian Wearing’s Millicent Fawcett statue in Parliament Square, this timely essay celebrates how far women have come in the past century, while issuing a wake-up call about why, in a climate of #MeToo and the gender pay gap, there’s still a long way to go for women to achieve true equality. Winterson makes some interesting comments about how advancements in technology affect women, particularly that if artificial intelligence is the future, then we should be worried that so few women are attracted to Silicon Valley’s top jobs. She follows up her points with a reprint of Emmeline Pankhurst’s 1913 ‘Freedom or Death’ speech, reminding us why brave, not silent women often shape the future.

It’s powerful and frank, but at just 80 pages long, I felt like there was more to say on many of the subjects Winterson touches on.

However, it’s a great primer for anyone who isn’t sure whether they identify as a feminist, or why they really should (Review by Liz Connor)

Published in hardback by Penguin Random House Children’s, priced £12.99 (ebook £8.99).

Available now

PA PHOTO/PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE CHILDREN’S

PA PHOTO/CANONGATE

Published in hardback by Canongate, priced £7.99 (ebook £2.99). Available now

Michael Morpurgo is the award-winning author of War Horse, Why The Whales Came and Kensuke’s Kingdom. Inspired by another legendary children’s author, Raymond Briggs, Morpurgo has taken Briggs’ wordless and beautifully illustrated tale, The Snowman, and filled out the narrative with elements from the film and other adaptations to form a magical Christmas story.

James is a lonely boy and longs for a friend of his own, and one December morning he wakes up to find his world transformed by snow. The original tale was simple and magical, and this new retelling is equally touching and has soft pencil drawings that match the gentleness of Briggs’ original work. Very festive and enchanting.

(Review by Sue Barraclough)

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travel

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Travel

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Christmas escapes Amid all the turkey and tinsel, who doesn’t also dream of enjoying a spot of winter sun far away from the rain and the cold? Here are some top hotspots to sail away to…

IT’S ALL SUNSHINE IN SYDNEY Have a completely different Christmas Down Under

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Barbados is stunningly decorated throughout for Christmas, including hotels, shops and homes. There are festivals, craft fairs and massive feasts with baked hams and great cake, with ingredients for the latter including dried fruits, spices and a fair amount of liquor.

In St Kitts and Nevis you can enjoy all types of celebrations, including Christmas parties, and Sugar Mas, which combines elements of Carnival with Boxing Day activities, parades and street parties.

The National Carnival, which displays local folklore and traditions through song, dance, drama and poetry, begins on Boxing Day and ends with the Grand Parade on New Year’s Day. On Grenada, Christmas masquerades are a holiday tradition, with bands playing a special festive repertoire of interactive music and dance. With local people dressed in traditional masks and brilliant costumes, the atmosphere is vibrant as many perform colourful dances and host street parties.

Away from the festivities and the beaches, the varied islands of the Caribbean feature tropical landscapes, including UNESCO-listed sights, mountains cloaked in rainforests through which you can trek – or zip-line, and fascinating sights associated with the islands’ complex colonial heritage.

Christmas Island

M THE SAND AND SEA IN YOUR FEET Enjoy your Christmas walk on the beach instead

ORE and more of us are choosing to leave the grey skies and rain of the UK to spend Christmas in the sun. Whether it’s to top up our tans or to explore further afield, there is an abundance of destinations to choose from.

And if you can’t decide on one destination, then why not choose a cruise on which you can visit several places, and still enjoy downtime between ports to relax and enjoy the sun?

Here, we bring you some especially heartwarming ideas:

tree, singing carols, Christmas jumpers and exchanging gifts on December 25. However, in Australia, Christmas comes towards the beginning of the summer holidays, so it’s influenced by the Australian climate – beach barbecues, in particular, are very popular.

One city-specific tradition is the Myer Christmas Windows in Melbourne. Since 1956, people have queued up in Bourke Street Mall to see the magical Christmas window displays at this department store.

Australia

The Caribbean

Everyone should spend Christmas in Australia at least once!

Many aspects of their Christmas celebrations originated from winter celebrations in Europe, such as decorating the

Further afield, the Caribbean islands are a staple for sunworshippers. Offering some of the best beaches in the world, here you can enjoy fantastic diving, snorkelling and sailing.

Where better to spend Christmas than on Christmas Island itself? Located in the Indian Ocean, around 220 miles south of Java and Sumatra, the island gets its name from the annual red crab migration, which happens around Christmas, and sees some 50 million crabs scurry towards the sea to spawn.

The Canary Islands Due to its proximity, Spain – especially the Spanish Canary Islands – is always popular for catching some winter sun. Indeed, more than nine million people take their holidays in the Canaries every year.

Christmas is different in Spain – their national holiday, known as Dia de los Reyes Magos (The Three Kings) is on January 6, when the children receive their gifts.

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Although Christmas Day is still a public holiday, the bars and restaurants, as well as many of the shops, are open as on any normal day. And there is plenty to see and do, including spectacular parades and processions in the islands’ various capitals, such as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

It’s not just the year-round sunshine that makes the Canary Islands such a great destination – thousands of years of volcanic activity have left their legacy here; stunning volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches and a rich culture make it a destination to suit everyone’s tastes.

Tenerife’s Mount Teide, the world’s third largest volcano, is a focal point.

Lanzarote, meanwhile, showcases its volcanic heritage in Timanfaya National Park, where EATING AL FRESCO In Las Palmas

BAYWATCH Over St John’s in Antigua

there are more than 100 volcanoes.

Away from the busier islands like Gran Canaria, Tenerife and Lanzarote, the Canaries has a quieter side, too.

La Gomera and La Palma are sleepy isles, characterised by untouched beaches, pine forests and fishing villages.

Christmas is an important festival in La Palma – and if you head to Franceses, a small village in the north-west of the island, you can see a nativity scene complete with life-size models of Mary,

Joseph and Jesus and the Three Wise Men. Christmas abroad can be an enriching and fulfilling experience – an opportunity to see how the holiday is celebrated elsewhere in the world and by different religions and cultures.

So, if the idea of getting away from the winter cold, and the stresses and strains of cooking Christmas dinner, appeals, then pop into your local travel agent and check out some of the great late deals which are still available.

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Tribute to squash legend World-ranking squash event the Colin Payne Kent Open will be held on January 10-12 at the Tunbridge Wells Squash Club, in memory of the local and national sporting hero. Ahead of the event, we spoke to the club’s Roger Kent about their involvement in wide-scale tournaments as well as the community, and their call for new members DO YOU OFFER DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF MEMBERSHIP? We do – there’s a regular full membership, an off-peak daytime only option, a teenager’s membership and one for children. We have some fantastic high level players, our oldest having been a member for 60 years, but we are also very keen to encourage the younger generations. It’s great for children’s hand-eye coordination.

We do a complete beginner’s session on a Friday evening and a two-hour training session on Sundays for those who are really keen to make further progress in squash. Also, one of our coaches visits local schools in Kent to teach the sport – he visits Claremont, Skinners’ Kent Academy, and Skippers Hill, to name but a few.

REFLECTED GLORY: Tunbridge Wells Squash Club Chairman Mark Groves-Gidney (left) receives the Kent Open trophies from organiser Alan Thatcher (right) FIRSTLY, CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT TUNBRIDGE WELLS SQUASH CLUB? We are a very successful squash and rackets club, tucked away here in Tunbridge Wells. We operate as a private members club and have three squash courts, an extensive and recently renovated bar, and an array of social activities that take place throughout the year.

We have an outstanding junior squash programme as well as individual coaching for players of all levels. In fact, our upcoming Open Day on the January 26 is designed to encourage new members to join us – complete beginners or people looking to get back into the sport.

We will be offering an exciting 15 per cent off all membership categories on the day.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PRO TOURNAMENT… Taking place in January, this will be the tenth year of the event, and this year it is named The Colin Payne Kent Open, sponsored by Select Gaming. It is named in memory of the late Colin Payne, as he tragically passed away last year.

Select Gaming, the sponsor, is owned by one of our members, Jonny Powell, and it was his idea to relocate the tournament from Maidstone to Tunbridge Wells Squash Club.

World ranked players from the top 50 to the top 150 will be here, and the prize money is at $5,000. The tournament runs from January 10-12, and there will be junior coaching as well as a ladies’ exhibition match. It’s a great chance for players to get on the sponsorship ladder if they can do well and get noticed at the tournament.

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT COLIN PAYNE? Colin Payne represented Tunbridge Wells for many years on the pro-circuit. He was county champion five times, won the Kent over-35 title ten times, and represented Kent on more than 100 occasions. He became the National Over-50 champion and represented England in international competition. He lost his life in tragic circumstances at the age of 54.

He is an inspiration for us, and I am sure that

REIGNING KENT OPEN CHAMPION Joel Makin

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Colin’s many friends in the game will want to visit the tournament to pay their respects and enjoy some great squash.

WHAT ELSE CAN WE EXPECT FROM THE TOURNAMENT? The Kent Open is acknowledged as one of England’s major tournaments for emerging squash professionals, and we will be celebrating its tenth anniversary with a new home at the club. Club sponsor G Collins and Sons Jewellers will also finance a Ladies professional challenge match during the tournament, and The Wells Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic will be delivering support to the players.

AS WELL AS THE BAR, DID YOU HAVE OTHER RENOVATIONS LAST YEAR? We also had our changing rooms refurbished to a very high standard. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council helped us with the funding for the female changing room, which was fantastic.

‘He is an inspiration for us, and I am sure that Colin’s many friends in the game will want to visit the tournament to pay their respects and enjoy some great squash’ One of our other key local sponsors, JVIP, kindly provided us with some tiered seating which we can put up for tournament events. It can seat about 30 people which, as you can imagine, creates a great atmosphere for spectators. Being in the Kent, Sussex and Surrey catchment area, we can usually attract a good crowd. The squash community is like one big family – we all know each other and there’s a real camaraderie between players and spectators.

YOU SEEM TO BE A BIG PART OF THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS COMMUNITY. DO YOU WORK CLOSELY WITH ANY OTHER BUSINESSES? We have long been partners with The Spa Hotel, who are a fantastic sponsor of ours. And Thomas Mansfield. One of our other local sponsors, MyCourts, is a software/IT company run by one of our members, Miles Montelius, who has developed an online court booking, lighting control and payment system that is now used by over 100 clubs around the country.

One a final note, we would encourage everyone to come down for the tournament, and why not bring the family along to our Open Day? For more information on both events, visit twsrc.co.uk

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Motoring

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Motoring News

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

This week… n Dacia pricing n Lego alert n Lights on or off?

Toying around with the last Lego Porsche 911 GT3 RS kits

Dusting off the prices for new petrol engine range DACIA has confirmed pricing for the Duster’s new range of TCe petrol engines, with the latest variants of the SUV available from £14,395.

On offer in both 128bhp and 148bhp guises, the engines feature a lighter aluminium block and use bore spray coating on the inside of the cylinders to improve performance.

They also have a gasoline particulate filter to reduce harmful pollutants.

That all translates to 240Nm of torque, 137g/km and a claimed 47mpg for the 128bhp TCe ‘130’ engine, while the 148bhp ‘150’ boasts identical efficiency figures with a jump in torque to 250Nm. Both units are paired with a six-

speed manual gearbox and twowheel drive, with all-wheel-drive variants due to arrive later in 2019.

Available in Comfort and Prestige trims, Dusters equipped with the ‘130’ option offer 16-in alloy wheels, a rear parking camera plus sensors, electric windows and a 7-in touchscreen infotainment system with support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard.

The ‘150’ comes exclusively with Prestige, which adds 17-in alloy wheels, a multi-view camera, blind spot warning, climate control and keyless entry. Pricing begins at £16,295 for this range-topper.

Order books are now open.

PRODUCTION of Porsche’s ‘991’ 911 is about to end, and the final version of its popular Lego Technic GT3 RS replica has rolled off the line.

Launched in 2016, this 1:8 scale model kit consists of 2,704 pieces and features detailed features, such as aerodynamic bodywork, replica dashboard, functional gearbox – and even a movable rear wing.

Its end makes way for a series of yet-to-be-confirmed sets in 2019.

But if you are planning on one for Christmas, don’t despair. Sets can still be bought in selected retailers while stocks last, at a cost of £259.99.

If you miss out, you could opt for another Lego Technic machine released this year. The Bugatti Chiron has also received the brick treatment, with that particular set consisting of 3,599 pieces.

Like the Porsche, it features a working engine and movable rear wing, along with a tiny luggage set.

Feeling particularly brave? Then why not have a crack at replicating Lego’s full-sized Bugatti Chiron – the first driveable brick-built car?

But be warned, it requires over a million Technic elements and takes 13,438 man-hours!

END OF THE ROAD Grab the Porsche 911 Lego kit while you can

Daytime running lights causing confusion DRIVERS could be causing confusion for other motorists by relying on daytime running lights [DRLs] for illumination in low visibility conditions, new research has found.

An RAC study of 2,061 UK drivers revealed 62 per cent claimed to have seen other vehicles with lights on at the front in dull or overcast weather conditions, but not at the rear. Additionally, 15 per cent of respondents say they had not noticed this, while 23 per cent were unsure.

EU law has required all new cars and small vans sold in the country to be fitted with DRLs at the front of the vehicle since 2011 in an effort to improve road safety – but they are intended to complement dipped headlights rather than replace them, and are dimmer as a result. But it is not a legal requirement for DRLs to be fitted at the rear of a car, although some manufacturers choose to fit them.

When asked if they knew whether the car they drove most frequently had DRLs fitted, 47 per cent of those in the survey said their car did not, 29 per cent said they only had them up front, 14 per cent claimed to have them both front and back, and 8 per cent said they knew their car had them at the front of their vehicle but were unsure about the rear.

RAC road safety spokesperson Pete Williams said: “This is potentially a very worrying finding as it implies that many motorists are driving without any rear lights, believing that because they have running lights that switch on automatically at the front they are also on at the rear.

“Alternatively, and arguably just as concerning, these drivers could simply have decided the light conditions were not bad enough to merit turning on their dipped lights or sidelights.”

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Recruitment

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WITH THE

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

CODEWORD 4

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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

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14 16

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Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

4 3

1 2

8 2 4

1 3

7

21

20 12

10

3 4 9 4 5 7 8 3 3 2 8 4 7 1 9 8 9 8 6 4 1 9 5 3 8 7 1

Codeword:

7

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

3

DIFFICULTY RATING:★★✩✩

2

9 5 8

1 3

5 9

1

© 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

E N G L A N D I A M G I MM I C K H M N E M T E A R OOM O P O J E S S O R E I F D O Z E N O P E E C OW R U B E L E E E R D E L V E S H

P R O X Y I N E Q T E A U A R A G R E E N I N T T O D O I N I O N N D O F T I S T E O E R I M P S

Sudoku:

8 4 3 7 2 5 9 6 1

2 7 9 1 3 6 4 5 8

1 5 6 8 9 4 7 2 3

3 2 4 9 6 7 1 8 5

9 1 8 2 5 3 6 4 7

7 6 5 4 8 1 3 9 2

5 9 1 3 4 8 2 7 6

8 3 6 1 2 9 4 5 7

7 4 9 2 8 3 6 1 5

6 9 1 7 5 4 2 3 8

4 8 7 6 1 2 5 3 9

6 3 2 5 7 9 8 1 4

Jigsaw Sudoku:

9 6 2 3 4 5 8 7 1

4 7 3 9 1 6 5 8 2

5 2 7 6 3 8 1 9 4

1 8 4 5 7 2 9 6 3

3 5 8 4 6 1 7 2 9

2 1 5 8 9 7 3 4 6

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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Sport

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Tout torments Cornish to keep run going Tonbridge Juddians 22 Redruth 7

for a pass out wide on the right to Hugo Watson, who just got over in the corner.

Robinson added the extras from the touchline in style to make the score 12-0.

Redruth hit back almost immediately with a converted try as TJs allowed them to get field position and 12-7 tightened things up a little.

By Adam Hookway RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS kept up their

HIGH HOPES Dave Irvine dominates the lineout

Cutting edge

PHOTO: Adam Hookway

excellent run of form at home to Redruth from Cornwall, making it five wins and a draw out of the last six games in National Two South.

The conditions were once again not conducive to open, running rugby and much of the first half was played between the two teams’ respective 22-metre lines.

The home side created the more likely scoring opportunities, and the only try of the first half came after a Will Robinson crosskick to the left corner. TJs stole the lineout ball and a series of drives saw Ben Ashmore crash over.

The second half continued in the same vein as the first, with the TJs’ defensive line shutting out the visitors. They also increased the tempo at times to push Redruth back.

Another series of forward drives created space

But TJs were now finding more room and the backs showed a cutting edge. A route one kick off a TJ ruck saw the space open up for Duncan Tout.

The Cornishman known as the Bude Bullet went through the gears to arc round the full-back and score, Robinson converting.

Robinson added a penalty to make it 22-7 and although Redruth threatened towards the end, the TJ door had well and truly shut.

The Tonbridge side, in fifth place in the table, now head to a resurgent Clifton in Bristol on Saturday [December 15, kick-off 2.30pm] at the halfway point in the season.

Lack of discipline ruins Wells’ hopes Sidcup 9 Tunbridge Wells 8

By Roger Clarke

George and Beck run riot at Henley Henley 0 Tunbridge Wells Men 9

By Simon Hare HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS signed off in style before the Christmas break with a thumping win at Henley in South Premier League Division One. Wells had faced a difficult run of matches, leaving their season in the balance in a very tightly contested league.

Their first goal came from a sharp breakaway down the left flank, with an incisive move allowing James Lester to push into a gaping net.

Man of the Match James Beck had an excellent game on the right touchline as more precision passing saw Sam George score twice.

Ben Allberry was on target with an excellent finish and Sam Clarke-Knowles also scored to put the visitors 5-0 up at the break.

A swift counterattack in the second half saw Allberry score his second, and Russell Self finished superbly after a rampant run.

Beck also got on the scoresheet with a drag flick goal at a short corner and George completed his hat-trick before the end.

Bradbury ensures reward for Ladies Colchester 0 Tunbridge Wells Ladies 1

By Amy Hare

HANGING ON Mike Hathaway and Christian Earle defend stoutly

PHOTO: Bruce Elliott

RUGBY: IT WAS case of another one that got away for Tunbridge Wells as their ongoing issue with poor discipline saw them lose narrowly to their Kent rivals at Crescent Farm.

Rain and strong winds made for tricky conditions, and some well executed tactical kicking kept Sidcup at bay.

But the hosts opened the scoring with a couple of penalties from Sam Evans.

Wells hung on by winning the loose battle but then indiscipline crept in and an obvious hand in the ruck gave Evans another easy shot at goal a minute before half-time to give the home side a 9-0 lead at the interval.

Three minutes into the second period Wells got on the scoresheet with a fine Reynolds penalty.

Wells pushed higher up the pitch, helped by counterattacks from skipper Ryan TaylorDennehy and winger Jake Caddy.

Luke Hawkins replaced Stuart Nicholls at hooker, only for him to be yellow-carded for a late tackle just when they needed to press.

But the 14 men showed their mettle, rucking to suck in defenders, then unleashing Mike Doherty to go over in the right corner.

Reynolds just failed to convert, leaving the visitors trailing by a point with 20 minutes to go.

On 70 minutes Wells rolled the mall over the

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

line only to be adjudged to have held up, and they did the same with three minutes left, again failing to impress the referee.

In injury time the visitors were awarded a penalty but one final act of indiscipline, action on the floor by a frustrated player, caused the penalty to be reversed and a relieved Sidcup

kicked to touch for the narrowest of wins.

So the first half of the London and South-East Premier Division season ended with Wells recording six wins from 13 games.

They face a tough assignment away at leaders Wimbledon on Saturday [December 15, kick-off 2pm] in their last game before Christmas.

HOCKEY: FINALLY Tunbridge Wells Ladies got the result they deserved for their attacking teamwork after several near-misses in the first half of the season in East Region Division One South.

Colchester were sitting one point above Wells in the table, and Wells took the game to their hosts with incisive runs from Imogen Jenner, Amelia Honavar and Harriet Alexander.

Jenner made a darting run on the left and released the ball to Becky Bradbury, who took it in to the D and, after the initial shot was saved, fired into the net.

The hosts started the second half forcefully, and a ball lifted in the circle by their right winger was deflected over the crossbar.

This danger galvanised Wells to keep their marking tight and make the most of their attacking play. They won a number of penalty corners but could not capitalise on them.

But the visitors remained calm to close out the win and climb up the table ahead of the Christmas break.

Sport

Folkes’ controversial sending-off proves turning point for Raiders

PHOTO: Brendan Kemp

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday December 12 | 2018

Life&Times

63

DOUBLE BLOW Andrew McKechnie follows Mike Cramp out of the club

Tonbridge Angels 1 Worthing 2 FOOTBALL: TWO red cards and two penalties – one of them missed and one scored – saw the game slip away from Tonbridge Angels as Worthing got back to winning ways in the Bostik League Premier.

Joe Turner should have put Tonbridge ahead on the quarter-hour but the Worthing goalkeeper Kleton Pentreou did well to smother the shot.

Pentreou produced more heroics after Worthing’s James Crane brought down Jared Small in the penalty area in the 25th minute, the keeper saving well from Alex Read’s spot-kick.

Eventually the Angels took the lead two minutes before half-time. A flowing move involving Tom Beere and and Michael West saw Turner apply the finishing touch.

The game was turned on its head in the 50th minute when James Folkes was adjudged to have handled in the area and controversially given a straight red card.

Advantage Crane stepped up to take the penalty and beat Jonny Henly with a low shot to his left to put the Rebels on level terms.

With the man advantage, the visitors were always going to enjoy more of the play and their substitute Callum Healey put Worthing ahead with a glancing header in the 78th minute.

Having scored the winner, Healey was then sent off for a second bookable offence late in the game. The Angels rallied but couldn’t break through the Worthing defence.

Angels manager Steve McKimm said: “Of course I’m very frustrated, but I cannot fault my players for their display.

“We have been victim of decisions that have gone against us and there is only one person responsible for that.”

The Angels have no Bostik League Premier fixture this weekend.

The club has arranged a friendly against Dartford from the National South league on Saturday [December 15, kick-off 3pm].

PHOTO: David Couldridge

By Jim Rowe

Second manager steps down as Rustics struggle K Sports 2 Rusthall 0

OUT OF REACH Joe Turner’s shot beats Kleton Pentreou

‘GODFATHER’ OF YOUTH FOOTBALL DIES TONBRIDGE ANGELS have announced former youth manager Mike Bender has died aged 73.

Described as the ‘Godfather’ of the Angels’ Youth Scheme, he was in charge of the Under18s for many years from the late 1980s.

Paul Emblen and Jon Heath were among those who were coached by him at Tonbridge.

He led a youth tour to the prestigious Mudau Youth Tournament in Germany in the early 1990s, reaching the semi-finals.

He was also a popular and dedicated coach of the juniors at Langton Green FC. The club said: “A real stalwart of youth football his entire life, Mike has given so much to our club and community over the last few decades.”

Tunbridge Wells Foresters FC said: “A true gentleman who did so much for youth football.

Mike will be sadly missed by those who knew him as the time effort and energy devoted by this man was amazing.”

As the tributes poured on social media, his daughter Karen Cowley said: “Thank you all for your kind words about dad. He was a true

gentleman, football mad and loved this club.

“He was passionate about grassroots football.

We are truly touched as a family.”

As Mike was once heard to say: “Maybe we can’t make them all great footballers, but they will all be better young men for the experience.”

Culverden goes wild for five-star show PHOTO: Victor Bethell

Tunbridge Wells 5 Croydon 2

By Victor Bethell FOOTBALL: TUNBRIDGE WELLS returned to the Culverden Stadium in triumph after winning five matches in a row away from home – in a complete reversal of their previous form.

They duly kept this fine run going with a comprehensive victory over a Croydon side who are firmly rooted to the bottom of the Southern Counties East League Premier Division.

The home side took the lead in only the second minute when the captain Perry Spackman rose high to meet Jake Beecroft’s corner and power a header into the net.

Skill Croydon were playing with a verve and ability that defied their lowly status and they scored an equaliser in the 20th minute.

But less than a minute later a free kick on the right from Jason Thompson flew across the goal and into the top left corner of the net.

On the half-hour Chad Bryce-Borthwick made it 3-1 with a 25-yard shot that swerved away from the keeper into the top right-hand corner.

After 35 minutes Jamie Humphris jinked past three defenders before laying the ball back to

TAKE THE LEAD: Tunbridge Wells captain Perry Spackman with the club mascot Ollie Fussell

Josh Biddlecombe, who fired it into the net.

After the break there were fewer chances, though Croydon pulled a goal back on the hour.

Towards the end, Beecroft cleared the ball down the right wing to Alexx Kendal, who slid it past the keeper for Humphris to slide it home.

The home crowd had witnessing their team playing with a combination of pace and skill that had been missing all season.

With the highest attendance in the league, 182, the supporters enjoyed seeing their team score five goals at home for the first time in three years.

Wells, who are in 16th place and moving up the table, now entertain Cray Valley on Saturday [December 15, kick-off 3pm].

FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL lost the second of their joint-managers less than a month after the first when Andrew McKechnie resigned, following in the footsteps of his colleague Mike Cramp.

The club’s chairman Joe Croker said: “He has made this decision because he thought it was in the best interests of the club.

“While I understand the reasons, I regret Ketters’s departure as I believe that with time he would have turned results around.”

He added: “The club would like to thank Ketters for his tireless efforts and dedication to the club.

We wish him well for the future.”

Rusthall remain second from bottom in the Southern Counties East League Premier Division, six points adrift of 18th place.

A poor pass by Lynos Rwodzi allowed Sam Stace a clear run on goal in the 11th minute and he coolly drilled the ball past keeper Joe Cullip.

But the game was evenly matched with few chances until the 20th minute when Danny Mitchell was sent off for dangerous play.

Although they had lost their dominant centrehalf, Rusthall defended resolutely as K Sports had more of the possession.

However, the home side scored again in the 57th minute when Stace scored his second from a corner which the Rustics could not deal with.

Stace could have had a hat-trick before the end but the ball was cleared off of the line.

Rusthall are at home to Lordswood on Saturday [December 15, kick-off 3pm].