Wednesday January 16 | 2019
All the news that matters
The BIGGEST local paper and it’s still
FREE COPY
Local, National and International
Times OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
COPY
Page
COPY
Page
Page
COPY Page
London influx keeps house market buoyant DESPITE more than £13,000 being wiped off the value of Tunbridge Wells’ property in the last quarter of 2018, the average asking price for a home in the borough is still over £200k above the national average of £297.527. House prices in the area have fallen 2.6 per cent since October 2018, standing at £493,991 at the beginning of January, according to property website Zoopla, and are down 0.60 per cent across the year. While average house prices vary wildly depending on individual vendors, the figures are part of a national trend, but the good news is that the market in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge remains buoyant.
Zero growth According to Rightmove, the end of last year saw the biggest drop in house prices in six years, with 3.2 per cent wiped off the cost of an average property in the UK, which fell by nearly £10,000. The picture is mirrored across the South East, with the cost of a house dipping 2.1 per cent during the same period. London has been the worst hit, recording two consecutive monthly falls in asking prices at the end of 2018, dragging down national prices and leading to predictions of zero growth across the country for 2019. Miles Shipside, Rightmove director and housing market analyst, said that while the festive period normally slows down growth, there was more to it than that.
Continued on Page 4
Boost to town’s tourism brings £278million to local economy by Richard Williams NEARLY five million people visit Tunbridge Wells each year, bringing more than a quarter of a billion pounds to the local economy, the latest tourism figures reveal. The numbers show 4.7 million trips were made to the royal town in a 12 month period, and the total value to the local economy of tourism has risen to £278 million a year. Individuals visiting the town are each spending on average £60 a day in Tunbridge Wells, helping boost jobs supported by tourism, which have increased with 5,235 workers now dependent on
visitors to the town for their living. The tourist industry accounts for 8 per cent of total employment in the borough, an increase of 6.6 per cent on the previous year.
‘The results of the research make very positive reading’ Based on independent research commissioned by Visit Kent, the latest figures cover the year 2017 and show a ‘deep dive’ into data collected about visits to Tunbridge Wells, which were up by 5.7 per cent on the previous year,
an increase of over a quarter of a million. The figures were derived using the Cambridge Economic Impact Model, an industry respected tool for measuring the economic impact of tourism in a given area. Councillor Jane March for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, and the Culture, Leisure & Tourism portfolio holder, said: “The results of the research make very positive reading for Tunbridge Wells. Tourism is very important to our local economy and I hope that we will see this upward trend continue. “The Council works hard to support the local tourism businesses through the
marketing and promotion it carries out. We work with partners across West Kent to ensure that visitors know what a great and welcoming destination this is.” Across the rest of the county, tourism figures also increased, with Kent welcoming 65 million visitors in 2017, adding £3.8 billion to the local economy and supporting more than 77,000 jobs. Kent remains the third most visited destination outside of London for foreign visitors and since 2006, the value of the county’s tourism industry has risen by 33%.
Continued on Page 4
4
NEWS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
this week… Forum anniversary ends with a gong for founder
MUSIC venue, The Forum, ended its anniversary year by unveiling a collage of more than 150 musicians and acts who have played during its quarter century celebrations. The anniversary year also culminated with founder and owner, Jason Dormon, receiving the Civic Medallion, for an outstanding contribution to community life. Dormon has been in music for over three decades said: “For thirty five years we have always believed in the simple, yet potent effect of uniting artists and audience and the profound impact that this has on communities and the wellbeing of individuals. “For this reason, I am honoured to accept the Civic Medallion on behalf of all the volunteers, bands, artists and audiences over the years that have shown their love, and the unconditional blood, sweat and tears of my family and close friends.” To celebrate The Forum’s 25-year anniversary, Jason commissioned house photographer Sally Anne-Lowe to create a collage of all the musicians who have played in the town during the last 12 months. “The ‘Un’ Collage shows many of the faces who took part in or organised events for The Forum’s year-long 25th Anniversary,” said Mr Dormon.
OPERATION OBJECTION: Calverley Square inquiry could see hundreds of protesters pg 6
AWARD WINNER: GingerMay’s founder wins another clutch of coveted industry awards pg 8
SMALL FACES The Fourm’s volunteers at the unveiling of the collage
MUSICAL NOTE: We meet the new director of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Orpheus Male Voice choir pg 51
ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY: Sit, sip and savour the fantastic hospitality on offer at The Spotted Dog pg 56
House market buoyed by influx Continued from page 1 He said: “It’s usual for new-to-the-market sellers to price lower in the run-up to Christmas to tempt distracted buyers, so we should not read too much into the mere fact of two consecutive monthly falls. “However, these falls have been larger than usual, making this the largest fall over two months for six years, showing that there are more than just seasonal forces at play.” Tonbridge appears to be bucking the national trend with prices remaining static over the last three months - the average home fetching £476,771, a fall of just .02 per cent since October, and prices have actually risen by 0.90 per cent in the last 12 months.
Activity
CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES GHak@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779650
Despite the drop in values, the market in Tunbridge Wells remains busy, with many local estate agents reporting plenty of activity. The number of houses sold in TN1 increased 60.54 per cent from 261 to 419 between October 2017 and October 2018. Similar growth was shown in TN3 and TN4. “For us, the last quarter of 2018 was particularly good. We had a much better December than the year before,” claimed Steve Bovis, Director at Tunbridge Wells’ estate agents Wood & Pilcher. “Many of our sales, I’d say a good 60 per cent, have been local people wanting to move up the ladder. It is a very aspirational town, and if you have quality properties they will always sell. “What I have noticed, though, is a big change in is the investor market. People either buy a house with their heart or with their head, and people buying with their head as an investment are
FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews
Runcie Court, David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TF
CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times of Tonbridge we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at Runcie Court, David Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0TF, or email newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.
PRINTED BY MORTONS PRINT LTD Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR
GOOD SIGNS Despite a drop in prices, local estate agents remain busy
being cautious.” Mr Bovis cites Brexit uncertainty for the hesitance, and others in the town agree and suggest there will be little growth for at least the next year. “The first half of the year was buoyant, but the last quarter things dropped significantly,” said Steve Bassi, Principal at local mortgage consultancy SPB. “What I think the problem is that is vendors do not realise there has been a reduction in price. If you want to sell in the market as it is, you have to be realistic. At best, I think we are looking at a flat couple of years.” The big advantage for both Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge is an influx from people looking to move out of London. Rightmove’s Miles Shipside explained. “One explanation for the rise in house sales in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge is the trend of people migrating away from London,” he said. “The average asking price in Kent is significantly lower than that of the capital, so you can see why buyers are making the move into the county, especially with good transport links into central London. “Whether it is first time buyers looking to get on the property ladder, or growing families hunting a home with more room to expand, moving to the commuter belt in Kent seems like a very sensible option.” But he warns that those thinking of selling in 2019 should act quickly as buyer interest returns very quickly after Christmas. “The window of maximum buyer negotiating opportunity starts to close from Boxing Day onwards, as more buyers become active in the market,” Mr Shipside said. “Homeowners who are thinking of coming to the market early in 2019 should seriously consider doing so as soon as possible to get maximum exposure.”
Tourism boosts town economy Continued from page 1 Chief executive of Visit Kent, Deirdre Wells OBE said: “Tourism is the UK’s fastest growing service sector and these figures demonstrate the contribution which our vital industry makes to the economy of Kent. “With our stunning countryside, world-class heritage, and delicious locally sourced food and drink, it is no surprise that visitor numbers are increasing in districts like Tunbridge Wells year on year. “Tunbridge Wells is a beautiful historic town with interesting independent restaurants and shops that tap into people’s desires. “It is also the festivals and events that are run in Tunbridge Wells that attract so many people to the town.” Julian Leefe-Griffiths, owner of Tunbridge Wells Hotel and Pantiles Bandstand Event Company, said: “We love running all the festivals in The Pantiles, and first and foremost we run them for local people, making Tunbridge Wells a vibrant and fun town to live in and if that helps tourism then that is a fantastic bonus.” Not only are more people visiting Tunbridge Wells, the time they spend here is increasing to, with around 300,000 booking a room to stay overnight, 7,500 more than in the previous year. One hotel in the town, One Warwick Place, has reported a year-on-year increase in occupancy rates of 20 per cent. “We have an overall occupancy of hotels in the county of 76 per cent, which is good but not great, so our challenge going forward is to turn more of our day visits into overnight stays and short breaks, bringing even further growth to the county,” added Deirdre Wells.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
NEWS IN BRIEF
County’s police crime recording is best in UK KENT POLICE has been named the best force in the country for accuracy of its crime recording, just two years after a watchdog issued ‘concerns’ about the its record keeping. In a report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services [HMICFRS], an independent watchdog, says Kent Police now records 96.6 per cent of all crimes reported to it. In 2017 the inspectorate had issued concerns about the way the force recorded crime. “A change programme was quickly implemented and the Chief Constable assured me things were improving,” explained Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott. “I’m pleased to see Kent Police is now leading the way in this vital area.” Chief Constable Alan Pughsley of Kent Police, added: “I am delighted to see such a significant improvement to our crime reporting being recognised. This is testament to the hard work and committment of our oficers in ensuring we get crime recording right.”
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Scarlet fever cases rise ONCE a leading cause of death among children, the number of reported incidents of scarlet fever is on the rise. There were a record 1,143 cases of scarlet fever reported in Kent in 2018, more than trebling the 362 cases reported in 2017, according to figures released by Public Health England [PHE]. PHE say that the increase in cases is partly due to more infections, but also due to more awareness of the condition leading to better reporting. The disease is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, the same bugs that cause strep throat. The illness, which can be treated successfully with antibiotics, can cause a bright red tongue and flu like symptoms.
Resident dies at 105 ONE of Tunbridge Wells’ eldest residents has died at the age of 105. Elsie Hardwick moved to the town from Wandsworth after her retirement from the Co-op. She lived in a flat in Summervale Road before moving to Garland House care home in Southborough when she reached the age of 103. She was born in December 1913, six months before the breakout of World War One and the same year of Captain Scott’s ill-fated Antarctic expedition. Her funeral is on Monday at Kent and Sussex Crematorium at 10.45am.
NEWS
5
Au revoir to Fromage & French By Richard Williams ANOTHER high street shop is to cease trading, blaming crippling business rates, an increase in wholesale prices and a disappointing Christmas period. Fromage & French, an independent delicatessen that sells quality cheeses and wines imported from France, is to close its doors on February 9. The shop on Tunbridge Wells High Street opened in 2016 and has proved popular by locals, but in the face of high business rates, poor sales over the festive period, and Brexit-induced hikes in wholesale prices, owner Gaëlle Coyle said she has no choice but to close. “Up until the beginning of last year we were doing really well, better than the year before, but things started to slow down during the summer,” she exclusively told the Times. “I’ve spoken to a lot of other retailers and they are all saying the same thing. Everybody is struggling.”
Ms Coyle even opened some evenings so customers could come in and sip samples from their state of the art wine dispensing machine, but it wasn’t enough. “I don’t regret it. This shop was always a dream for me and I am glad that I have done it. I wanted to give people a different experience, and people really seemed to enjoy it.” She said that business rates in particular were one of the reasons she could no longer continue trading. “We are a small independent business and yet we are paying the same business rates as the large chains. It just makes no sense. You don’t get anything for it – it is just a tax on having a business.” Wholesalers too warned her that imports were set to rise 10-15 per cent due to Brexit, but the final nail in the coffin was a poor Christmas performance. “Christmas was good but not as good as the
Speed camera upgrade NEW speed cameras have been installed around Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge as part of a digital upgrade programme. The new ‘Gatsos’ have been installed in a number of locations, including the A26 in Southborough, Eridge Road, Pembury Road, and the B245 in Tonbridge. Kent & Medway Safety Camera Partnership say the digital cameras send images directly to Kent Police through a mobile communication link, eliminating the need to collect, develop and replace film. The new road safety equipment is part of a digital upgrade programme that aims to replace all existing speed camera sites in Kent and Medway by the end of March 2020.
Local News
LA FIN Shop owner Gaelle Coyle is closing after three years
Unfair rail pricing a concern for many part-time commuters FOLLOWING fare hikes at the beginning of the year, part-time workers feel they are getting the worst deal from the rail companies and many are looking to work locally due to unfair pricing. As reported in the Times of Tunbridge Wells last week, workers commuting to London are paying close to a third of the UK average salary, once income tax and National Insurance are added to the £4,792 face value cost of a season ticket, just to get in and out of London each day.
Frustration Travellers who only venture into the capital two, three or four days a week, are also left with no option but to buy a full-priced season ticket, as the cost of daily peak time returns is often greater than the cost of an annual, weekly or monthly pass. Laura Gibson (pictured far right), used to commute to London regularly, and says it has always been a problem. “A lot of people living in Tunbridge Wells work part-time in London. “We are lucky to be so close to London but people shouldn’t have to pay for a seven day ticket if they only travel three. “In this modern, agile world, where flexible working and wellness is embraced by most businesses, it seems a shame that rail networks cannot issue a more flexible ticket at a reduced rate.” Laura, who has now set up her own Tunbridge Wells based PR and brand company, Calvermont, with her partner Olivia Thornhill,
says many more people are now considering giving up working in the capital. “I spent 15 years commuting so I understand the frustration of local commuters all too well. Luckily, there are lots of local businesses in and around Tunbridge Wells and many business people who live, work and play here who don’t have to rely on travel to London.” Passenger groups have been arguing for some time that rail firms should be offering discounts to part-time workers, but as yet, Southeastern and other franchise owners have yet to introduce discount schemes. STAYING PUT Laura Gibson (right) and business partner Olivia Thornhill
year before, and when Christmas is not great then that’s your whole year,” admitted Ms Coyle. She said compared to the previous festive season, sales were down by a third. Fromage & French is the latest in a number of local retailers to announce closures. As reported in the Times last week, both Cardmarket on the precinct and Millets in Camden Road are having closing down sales, joining an ever lengthening list of stores that have shut their doors for the last time. Christmas, which is normally a boom time for retailers, has proved disappointing for many. Big names, including Marks and Spencer, Debenhams and Sainsbury’s all reported poor like-for-like sales over the festive period.
‘We are a small independent business and yet we are paying the same business rates as the large chains’ Nicky Blanchard, Centre Manager of Royal Victoria Place, said Christmas at the shopping centre had been ‘mixed’. Commenting on the situation she said that: “General retail saw positive growth during the month of December, whilst fashion was impacted to some extent due to the mild weather. As we are all aware, trading conditions are challenging across the UK, and Tunbridge Wells is no exception.” “Some retailers at Royal Victoria Place have reported very strong year-on-year performances and, although it is fair to report that others experienced less robust growth, winter sales immediately prior to Christmas provided a footfall boost before the festive break.” Town Centre Manager, Karen Pengelly, said Christmas saw ‘a very mixed, erratic and unpredictable trading pattern’. “It would be an exaggeration to say that all was rosy, but the death of retail and the high street is simply not true,” she added. Darren Shirley, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “The rail ticketing system has failed to keep up with the changes in the way people work. With the growth in part-time working, and working from home, the rail industry needs to adapt its ticketing approach to make commuting by train more palatable and affordable for those not working full time. “Train companies need to ensure that their part-time ticketing options are meaningful and save passengers money compared to a 7-day season ticket or buying tickets each day. “A complete overhaul of fares and ticketing is long overdue - the Government’s recently announced root and branch review of the railways needs to make ticketing simpler, fairer and more affordable.”
6
NEWS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
New mainline ‘Unprecedented’ objections could see gathers steam hundreds descend on Calverley inquiry
CLOSED Tunbridge Wells mainlines could be reinstated if a new cross-London rail link gets the go ahead. Brighton Main Line 2 [BML2], also known as Thameslink 2 or Crossrail 3, is the proposed building of a new mainline through Kent and Sussex that will relieve pressure on the existing Tonbridge and Brighton main lines into London, both among the most overcrowded rail routes in the country.
Mr Graham Dudley has been appointed Inspector to conduct the hearing, which begins at 10am on Tuesday February 12 at the Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel in Pembury. Scheduled to last ten days, the Planning Inspectorate inquiry has been set up to hear evidence from both the Council and objectors, but some fear their voice won’t be heard due to insufficient space, and that ten days may not be enough to hear everybody.
DISPUTE The Council’s plans hinge on access to Hoopers car park and service road
Backing If the scheme gets the green light it could see Tunbridge Wells West reopen, currently the site of the Spa Valley Railway, and developed into a major station allowing commuters a direct line into Canary Wharf. Up until now, the Department for Transport has remained cool on the prospect of BML2, which would link Tunbridge Wells with Croydon, Lewisham, Stratford and central London, but the proposal is gaining renewed backing among London boroughs and business interests and even the Government’s National Infrastructure Commission believes ‘there is currency in the scheme’. While Network Rail has outlined plans for a proposed 15-mile tunnel from south Croydon to a London terminus, rival scheme BML2 would be a cross-London line, similar to Thameslink. Investors in BML2, who have already spent £400,000 investigating the benefits of the rail line, are being urged by Transport Minister, Chris Grayling, to present their case. Business Secretary and Tunbridge Wells MP, Greg Clark, has said that he would be ‘delighted to see BML2 go ahead, as the reopening of Tunbridge Wells West would be a real boon to the town.”
Deadline
By Richard Williams IT COULD be standing room only if all the people that have made objections to the public inquiry into Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s controversial £90million Calverley Square project turn up at the forthcoming inquiry into the compulsory purchase orders. The Planning Inspectorate, the independent body that will oversee the inquiry, confirmed that they have received more than 300 thirdparty comments already, with the closing date for objections still one week away. The Council has been in negotiations to
acquire and obtain new rights over land as part of its plans to develop the new office and theatre complex and has issued Compulsory Purchase Orders [CPOs]. The inquiry has been arranged following objections to the CPOs, which includes Mount Pleasant and Great Hall car parks, and part of Calverley Grounds including the dental surgery known as The Lodge. Among the voices to be heard, Hoopers department store is expected to protest against the proposed sharing of its car park and service road. The Council admit they have ‘no plan B’ if Hoopers objection is upheld.
“It could take days, weeks, or even months,” said Bob Atwood, chairman of Tunbridge Wells Alliance, the political party set up specifically to oppose the new development. “We have concerns about the size, as it is more or less unprecedented for a CPO to raise 300 objections. “If everybody descended there at once, the room will not be anywhere large enough.” The venue for the inquiry was selected by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council who say it meets the Planning Inspectorate’s requirements and has good travel links. A spokesperson for the Council said: “The inquiry for the A21 dualling was held at the same hotel and there is no reason to think that the venue is not suitable.” It is also thought many of the arguments are expected to be similar in scope, so it is unlikely Mr Dudley will call everybody that has sent in an objection. The deadline for submissions of evidence to the inquiry is January 22, and a dedicated inquiry website has been launched by Persona, the organisation administering the inquiry process: http://calverley.persona-pi.com/
8
BUSINESS
Local News
NEWS IN BRIEF
Packing company says it’s not ready to fold yet
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
WINNING SMILE Victoria Usher
AN INDEPENDENT packing company in Paddock Wood that fell into administration has been taken over by new owners that have vowed to save the company. Steller Packing was bought out in November after the company slipped into administration, securing the future of 30 permanent jobs and over 100 temporary staff. New Managing Director Harem Kamishi said: “Companies don’t go into administration without good reason and it was clear there were policies and procedures and decisions being made that sadly ultimately led to that result. “We are putting that right.”
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
GingerMay founder scoops top award THE founder of Tunbridge Wells PR firm GingerMay has won the prestigious Gold Stevie Award for Female Entrepreneur of the Year. Victoria Usher founded GingerMay in the town in 2010. Specialising in tech-related PR, it was created in her kitchen eight years ago. Now it has spread out from Royal Victoria House in The Pantiles to have offices in London, New York and Berlin, and is one of the country’s fastest growing PR agencies. Working mum Ms Usher was also awarded two Bronze Stevie Awards for Woman of the Year in Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations, as well as Most Innovative Woman of the Year in the same sector. The Stevie Awards are the top honour for female entrepreneurs, executives, employees and the
Law firms increase partners have appointed Dominic Filleul as TWO of Tunbridge Wells’ leading a partner to strengthen their real law firms have increased the estate team, especially for assisting number of partners they have to clients in the Middle East region. strengthen their legal teams. Mr Filleul, who has more than 20 The head of CooperBurnett’s years of experience in real estate Family and Matrimonial investment, has strong links to the department, Gemma Gillespie, has been made a partner in the Middle East, particularly Dubai, company after being at the firm where he acts for a number of for three years. high net worth family offices. Ms Gillespie has been a He said: “The specialist in family law for recent merger the past 18 years, having qualified in 1996. between “I’m very proud to be Cripps and part of the team here at Pemberton CooperBurnett and am very Greenish excited to have been promoted makes it a particularly to a partner,” said Ms Gillespie. exciting time to “I am looking forward to getting further involved be joining in driving the firm the firm, forward.” Meanwhile, Cripps, which has offices in Tunbridge Wells, EXPERT ADVICE London Cripps’ Dominic Filleul and Kings (left) and CooperBurnett’s Hill, Gemma Gillespie
which has a really strong reputation in real estate. “I am looking forward to working with the team to strengthen this and expand its international capabilities even further.” Mike Scott, head of the real estate team, said: “His hire is very much part of our strategy to expand the service that we provide to offshore investors.” Cripps and London firm Pemberton Greenish announced the completion of their merger on December 1. The combined firm features a real estate team of more than 150 people offering the full range of commercial and residential property services.
organisations they run. On winning the award, Ms Usher said: “It is an honour to be flying the flag for Tunbridge Wells’ businesses at one of the world’s most prestigious business awards.
Accolade “Being named Female Entrepreneur of the Year couldn’t be be a better way to kick-start what’s set to be an exciting year for GingerMay.” And Victoria Usher is no stranger to accolades. In 2018, she was recognised with two Gold Stevie Awards for Fastest Growing Company of the Year and WomenRun Workplace of the Year. GingerMay also won the Service Excellence Award at last year’s Times Business Awards.
Airport ends its expansion consultation GATWICK’S draft master plan consultation has now closed. Launched in October last year, the 12-week consultation was to give people an opportunity to voice opinions about the airport’s growth ideas. The airport, which hopes to finalise its plans sometime in 2019, has outlined various scenarios, including using new technology on the main runway to increase capacity, having a standby runway for departing flights, and safeguarding additional land for an additional new runway. Opponents say any expansion will lower house prices and lead to an increase in noise levels for those living along the flight path. As reported in the Times earlier this month, 50.01 per cent of Gatwick’s shares are to be sold to the French firm VINCI Airports for around £2.9billion.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
NEWS IN BRIEF
No deal could lead to ‘food rotting in fields’
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Local News
BUSINESS
9
WEATHERING THE STORM The owners of Tunbridge Wells’ Lamborghini dealership
TWO leading countryside associations have joined forces to warn MPs about the danger of a no deal Brexit. The Country Land and Business Association [CLA] and Tenant Farmers Association [TFA] have written to MPs to say that no deal would ‘leave all farmers facing significant tariffs on exports or potentially the inability to trade with the EU’. They have also told MPs that a lack of migrant labour could mean ‘crops go unpicked this summer, leaving food rotting in the fields’. “Leaving the EU without an agreement firmly in place is likely to have disastrous long-term consequences for the nation’s countryside and its rural communities,” said CLA President Tim Breitmeyer. “The UK’s future relationship with the EU must include the free and frictionless trade on which so many rural businesses depend.”
Interest rate cut? THE head of the Tunbridge Wells’ branch of leading investment management firm Brooks MacDonald predicts a cut in interest rates if the UK leaves the European Union at the end of March without a withdrawal agreement. Senior Investment Director Howard Crossen, who is based at the firm’s Mount Ephraim Road offices, said: “We see scope for rate cuts and more quantitative easing in the event of a no-deal scenario playing out.” He added that it will difficult for the Bank of England to loosen monetary policy further if sterling comes under pressure.
Greg Clark warning BUSINESS SECRETARY Greg Clark has said a no deal Brexit would be ‘dire’ and a ‘disaster’, and that confidence from investors has been shaken. Writing for Politico magazine, the MP for Tunbridge Wells said: “The dire prospect that we could tolerate trading with our largest and closest market on World Trade Organisation terms — the most rudimentary that exist between any nations on earth — is bewildering to them.” His words come just two weeks after exclusively telling the Times of Tunbridge Wells that a no deal would ‘ravage’ the UK economy.
Cambria sales slump masked by high margins from its supercars THE firm behind the new Tunbridge Wells Lamborghini dealership was hit by a decline of nearly a quarter in new car sales at the end of last year. Parent company Cambria Automobiles, which opened the Grange Lamborghini supercar dealership alongside its existing Bentley forecourt in November last year, has reported a drop in sales of new models of 24.9 per cent. It has acknowledged that the market has been significantly affected by the introduction of the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure [WLTP[, which was brought in last September in the wake of the Volkswagen emission testing scandal.
Cambria’s fall in sales has been somewhat masked by a change in direction from the company. It has now primarily targeted the luxury car market, which has higher margins.
Performance Not only has the firm invested in the new Lamborghini dealership in Dowding Way, on Tunbridge Wells’ North Farm retail park and industrial estate, but also it is embarking on ventures with Aston Martin and McLaren in Hatfield. “The gross profit per retail unit improved significantly in a total basis as a result of the stronger
Jaguar Land Rover to axe thousands of jobs HIT by falling sales of diesel cars and Brexit uncertainty, Jaguar Land Rover [JLR] has announced big job losses as part of a £2.5billion savings plan. Britain’s biggest car manufacturer has said 4,500 jobs will go, the majority in the UK, although a voluntary reduction programme has been launched. The car giant, which has just invested in a
£12million dealership in Tonbridge, opened by Jardine Motors Group, has already cut 1,000 temporary workers from its 40,000-strong UK workforce. The company announced its multi-billion pound cost-saving plans in October, and owners Tata Motors appointed Boston Consulting Group to put together its savings plan. But up until now it had remained tight-lipped
mix from the new franchised outlets representing Bentley, Lamborghini and McLaren,” the group said on a trading statement. “Group profit per unit also improved on a like for like basis over the same period and the overall impact of the improved profit per unit mitigated the reduction in sales.” Used vehicles also suffered a 10.5 per cent decline in sales, but there was some more good news. The company said aftersales operations had delivered a ‘good performance’, with revenue increasing by 1.9 per cent and like for like sales by 2.6 per cent, resulting in a year-on-year rise in gross profit of 6.5 per cent. about the number of jobs that would go. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive of JLR, said: “We are taking decisive action to help deliver long-term growth in the face of multiple geopolitical and regulatory disruptions, as well as technology challenges facing the automotive industry.” • Ford has also signalled that there will be ‘significant’ cuts to its 50,000 European workforce under plans to make it more competitive and its business more sustainable.
10
NEWS
Local News
MP who employed former Hawkhurst aide is cleared
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Paddock Wood vote is non-binding say town councillors
VOLUNTEERS Maureen Chaseley, Barry Chaseley and Julie Russell from Winter Shelter
Government grant helps reduce the number of rough sleepers by Richard Williams CLEARED: Craig Mackinlay CONSERVATIVE politician Craig Mackinlay has been cleared of falsifying election expenses. The MP for South Thanet was accused of failing to declare £60,000, which was spent on staffing, hotels and adverts during the 2015 election campaign, when he beat the then Ukip leader Nigel Farage, as well as comedian Al Murray. Southwark Crown Court were told that declared spending came in under the £52,000 constituency limit, but it had been alleged that Mackinlay, his agent, and a party activist, had failed to declare a further £60,000. It had also been alleged that all three ‘simply abandoned’ expenditure rules in order to beat the then Ukip leader, Nigel Farage. During the election campaign, former Tunbridge Wells’ councillor, Nathan Gray, acted as the MP’s agent.
Acquitted Gray was a councillor for Hawkhurst and Sandhurst between 2014 and May last year. He was employed by Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) as Mackinlay’s campaign manager from November 2014. Mr Gray, 29, of Hawkhurst, had told the court that he did not know what an election agent did before taking the role and claimed to have received limited training. He had denied one count of knowingly making a false expenses declaration. The court had heard from experienced Tory campaigner, Anthony Salter, who had told jurors that he did not know how Gray had become election agent as the role was ‘totally beyond him’. Gray was acquitted of any wrongdoing in December. Speaking after the court hearing last week, Craig Mackinlay, said: “It has been nearly three years of hell. This has really been a tough time. “There are questions that need to be asked and the Electoral Commission needs to get together with political parties to make sure that never again a candidate or an agent can be accused of these things.” Marion Little, 63, a party activist, was given a suspended sentence after being found guilty of two charges of knowingly making a false expenses declaration at the same hearing.
FEWER people are sleeping rough in Tunbridge Wells than in the previous year, the council and support workers say. Only seven people were found to be sleeping in the streets of the town during the night of the annual rough sleeper count, which took place in November. This compares to 20 in the previous year. The count was carried in the early hours of one morning and presents a snapshot of the number of people sleeping in doorways, park benches or other locations around the town. The drop in number follows a successful bid by the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) for a share of a government grant to help rough sleepers. The funding provided additional outreach work, an extended Winter Shelter, and tenancies for people who are street homeless. The Council has also provided its own funding to assist homeless families by purchasing and refurbishing Dowding House in Paddock Wood, which is now being used to provide temporary accommodation. Maureen Chaseley, from Tunbridge Wells Churches Winter Shelter, who helped with the count, praised the efforts made by the council and said the figures were ‘accurate’ and a ‘true reflection’ of the number of people sleeping on the street in the town.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
“We have on average six people come to us each night,” said Mrs Chaseley. “So there’s enough beds for those that want to help themselves.” She did add, however, that some people do refuse assistance and choose to remain on the street. “Unfortunately, due to certain lifestyle choices, there are people sleeping rough that do not want help.” The shelter, which is based in Grosvenor road opened on January 2, assesses each new applicant, and as long as they do not have a criminal record for violence or sexual offences, they can be accommodated the same day. Cllr Lynne Weatherly, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Wellbeing at TWBC, commented on the figures. “This is very good news. The significant fall in the number of people sleeping rough is the result of a lot of hard work by the Council’s housing team and the other agencies and voluntary groups who work so hard to support this section of our community. “People in Tunbridge Wells are incredibly generous and, like the Council, want to see the end to all rough sleeping. At this time of year, people are looking for ways to help so I would urge anyone who wants to donate to do so through the Tunbridge Wells Churches Winter Shelter or a charity like Porchlight.”
HELP: A government grant and council funding have helped reduce rough sleeping by nearly two thirds
BALLOTS closed last night (Tuesday) on a parish poll organised to establish how many residents are in favour of the proposed site for a £2.8million community centre. In a meeting held in December, town councillors agreed to give local people a say, but the vote, which was held yesterday, is non-binding, which means the council do not have to act on the outcome. Campaigner from Friends of Memorial Field, Wendy Morris, ran her own poll before Christmas and received more than 800 respondents opposing the building on the parkland. “I think this vote will go the same way,” she argued. “I only hope that if we get enough people, the council will see sense and change their mind.” Paddock Wood Town Councillor Rodney Atkins, agreed with her assessment. “I think the majority of people in Paddock Wood do not want it built there. “It will, I’m sure, be brought up at the next full council meeting on January 21 and it will make sense to review it.”
Bronze hippo goes missing
DISTINCTIVE Harry the hippo was stolen by thieves last week KENT POLICE are on the lookout for thieves who stole a giant cast bronze hippopotamus from an award winning garden ornament business near Tunbridge Wells. Nicknamed ‘Harry’ after Prince Harry by staff at Chilston, who are based in Langton Green, the hippo weighs almost three quarters of a tonne and is around two metres in length. Police say the theft is believed to have taken place between 5.30pm on Wednesday January 9 and 7am the following morning, after entry was forced to the site’s show gardens. PC Nick Lingham from Kent Police Rural Taskforce team said: “The hippo is extremely heavy and in the past it has taken five people to lift it. “It is clear those responsible would have needed a large vehicle such as a flatbed truck and may have also needed to lift it by mechanical means. “It is a hugely distinctive object and it is unlikely the offenders will find it that easy to sell on as scrap or to a collector. “Because of its sheer size we are hoping people may have seen it being transported and also asking members of the public to keep their eyes open and report anything suspicious.”
NEWS
Community News
Chemists can provide specialist help to take strain off GP surgeries DOCTORS across West Kent are urging the public to think about using a pharmacy rather than their surgery for what they call ‘common minor ailments’ over the winter months. Local chemists ‘can offer a wealth of health support and should be the first port of call for common illnesses such as coughs and colds’, according to Dr Bob Bowes, Chair of NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group. “Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who can provide much more than just a prescription,” he said. “At this time of year, many people get colds and flu and visit their GP when in reality a quick trip to the pharmacy is what they need.
Guidance “Many pharmacies are open for longer hours than GP surgeries, and you don’t need an appointment.” Now they often have consulting rooms, where people can discuss their problems with trained medical staff in private. Dr Bowes added: “Pharmacists can give advice and guidance about common problems such as headaches, coughs and colds and tummy bugs. “They can also advise people about buying over-the-counter medicine and give advice on prescribed medication. “If they can’t help you, they will be able to direct you to the right place, whether that is your GP, practice nurse, or a minor injuries unit.” He advises the best treatment for a cold is to drink fluids, take paracetamol and rest. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections like colds and will not be prescribed by doctors. Opening hours for the nearest pharmacy can be found on the NHS Choices website at nhs.uk
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Fairy-tale trip to pantomime for Rusthall Lodge residents receptive to our ideas,” said Bill Blackford, facilities and marketing manager at Rusthall Lodge. “It’s been great having their support in getting our care home involved in the local Tunbridge Wells community and making people think about the elderly in a
ELDERLY residents from Rusthall Lodge Care Home were treated to an evening at the pantomime as a Happy New Year’s gift. They went to see Sleeping Beauty at the Assembly Hall theatre and were invited to meet the cast, including soap opera and West End star Claire Sweeney. Hilary Taylor, the home’s registered manager and director of care, said: “Taking our residents out to enjoy a Christmas panto was the perfect ending to our 50th anniversary celebrations, rounding off a year of Golden Moments for our care home residents.
Memory lane “Most of our residents come from the Rusthall, Langton Green and Tunbridge Wells areas, so the Assembly Hall has long been their local theatre; it was a real trip down memory lane for them and they had a great time.” In October the theatre also hosted a photo exhibition of Rusthall Lodge’s residents, entitled On The Shoulders Of Giants, which captured their portraits in the style of the golden age of Hollywood. “We were delighted to work with the team at the Assembly Hall theatre again, who have been so
new light,” he added. The Lodge’s staff also arranged a variety of ‘Golden Moments’ for residents throughout last year to mark the independent care home’s half-century. These included a first drumming lesson for Vera Lawson, who had to
wait more than 90 years because her parents thought that drums were too loud. A large garden party in August was attended by Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark and the town’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoress, James and Jane Scholes. THEY’RE BEHIND YOU Rusthall Lodge residents meet the cast
PHOTO: David Bartholomew
12
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Sweet treats on train are just the ticket for Hospice in the Weald A TRAIN conductor raised more than £1,700 for the Hospice in the Weald by collecting donations while handing out chocolates to passengers. Colin Offord of East Peckham wore his Christmas jumper for a week on the Southeastern service between London and Hastings. Tor Edwards, Head of Communications for the Hospice, said: “We are sure that commuters and tourists alike were warmed by his cheery smile and kindness. “Colin’s jazzy Christmas jumper definitely livened up the grey and miserable wintery mornings on the trains. We’d like to thank him and all the passengers who supported us.” He was inspired by one of his colleagues who regularly collects for charity and managed to raise £1,735.94 for the Hospice.
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Community News
NEWS
13
Bringing a welcome ray of light to children being treated in hospital By Andy Tong A FAMILY from Five Oak Green have donated equipment worth more than £1,000 to Tunbridge Wells Hospital in memory of their son. Daniel Strawson died of a brain tumour in 2007 aged 11 months. His parents, Richard and Susannah, and their children, Thomas, Hannah, Lydia and Faith, have been raising funds for the various charities that helped them when Daniel was ill over the last decade. When they reached what would have been Daniel’s 10th birthday year, the family felt they wanted to do something special together. They decided to climb Snowdon and raise at least £1,000 in the process for six worthy causes, each one chosen by a member of the family.
Committed
ON THE RIGHT TRACK Colin Offord on the Hastings line
Among the beneficiaries was the Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, who cared for Daniel at what was then Pembury Hospital. Seventeen family and friends, ranging in age from six to 77, climbed to the summit in 50mph winds, driving rain and almost zero visibility. Richard recalled: “The car park attendant did his best to put us off attempting the climb that day. However, we were rather committed and so we decided to continue with the challenge – and what a challenge it was. “By the time we reached the top, the group was separated and struggling through 50 mph winds, driving rain and almost zero visibility! “The mountain top café was on the verge of closing due to the bad weather and lack of customers. Fortunately it stayed open for the group to arrive safely, if cold and extremely wet.”
FAMILY VALUES The Strawsons with staff at Pembury He added: “The reward for our efforts was an unforgettable and special experience. Like Daniel, never to be forgotten.” The family easily exceeded their fundraising target and have been able to donate more than £1,000 to each of the six causes. After consulting staff at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, the family presented them with a range of multi-sensory equipment for the children who
are undergoing treatment there. The donations include tables and mood lights which illuminate in a variety of colours by remote control, and Worry Hands attached to walls. These encourage children not to worry about medical procedures. They place their hand on a Worry Hand print, which lights up red, then slowly changes to green to signify that the worry has been taken away.
14
NEWS
National News
Kate’s Chelsea garden encourages wellbeing THE Duchess of Cambridge has co-designed a Chelsea Flower Show garden on behalf of the Royal Horticultural Society. Kate’s RHS Back to Nature Garden was designed in collaboration with award-winning landscape architects Andrew Davies and Adam White, of Davies White Landscape Architects. The woodland setting of her creation aims to encourage people to connect with nature and grow plants for their health and wellbeing. The RHS said it ‘has been inspired by childhood memories that are triggered by the natural world, as well as special moments that will be created and treasured by families now and in the future’. A Kensington Palace spokeswoman said: “The garden seeks to recapture for adults the sense of wonder and magic that they enjoyed as children, in addition to kindling excitement and a passion for nature in future generations. RHS director general Sue Biggs said: “We could not be more thrilled, or feel more honoured. “To have the duchess advocating this with us, and to be continuing our partnership with NHS England will, we’re sure, further highlight the powerful benefit that access to gardens, nature and growing plants can have for all our health and happiness.”
OUT AND ABOUT: Kate learns how to make bird boxes at King Henry’s Walk Garden in London
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Cuts to London’s police force ‘not sustainable’ says Mayor GOING DOWN Homicide officers have fallen by 26 per cent
NEWS IN BRIEF
Poundland sells rings before the ‘real’ deal ENGAGEMENT rings have gone on sale at Poundland a month before Valentine’s Day. ‘Bling Rings’ are available in a variety of colours as part of the Valentine’s Day range. Poundland say they give people the opportunity to propose ‘before they need to invest in the real rock’. “These are beautiful placeholder rings because we know they’ll want to buy their own,” said a spokesperson. “We’re looking forward to the Poundland proposal becoming the way it’s done. [It] is setting the scene for the real deal.”
Laces tie themselves THE Mayor of London has attacked Government cuts to policing after it was revealed that Scotland Yard’s murder investigation unit has lost a quarter of its officers and staff over the past decade. Last year 315 fewer police and civilians were working in the Metropolitan Police’s homicide and major crime command [HMCC] than in 2008. The unit’s overall strength decreased by 26 per cent over 10 years, while major investigation teams [MITs] dropped from 26 to 18. By 2018 there were half the number of officers and other staff working within those specialist teams than a decade earlier. Scotland Yard said its HMCC includes murder detectives as well as specialist operations, such as Winter Key – its child sex abuse probe – and investigations into alleged electoral fraud and the Grenfell Tower fire. A Met spokeswoman said: “The Metropolitan Police Service frequently adjusts resources to respond to violence in London.”
However, Mayor Sadiq Khan blamed a shortfall in police funding, which has seen the overall number of police officers drop below 30,000 for the first time in 15 years. “I’ve been saying ever since I became Mayor the cuts from the Government to the Met Police Service aren’t sustainable,” he said. “I’ve been lobbying the Government to reverse the cuts they’ve made over the last eight years. “We’ve seen in our city police officers lost, community police support officers lost, police staff lost. “It’s not sustainable for us to have the best police service in the world, the best resourced police in the world, with these sorts of cuts. “The police are working incredibly hard, they’re under-resourced and over-stretched.” The figures, released by a Freedom of Information request, come amid a rising tide of violence in the capital with the number of homicides reaching 128 in 2018 – the highest level in a calendar year this decade.
NIKE has unveiled a new pair of connected shoes which are self-lacing and can be controlled from a smartphone. The new Nike Adapt BBs contain what the sportswear firm called ‘power laces’, which tighten or loosen the shoes at the press of a button either on the shoes or through a connected smartphone app. The shoes, which are designed for basketball, can be programmed to remember different fit settings, such as moving from playing a game to resting.
Uber fares go electric UBER fares in London will be increased from today [Wednesday] to help drivers buy electric cars. A clean air fee of 15p per mile will be added to every trip taken in the capital. The minicab app firm expects the scheme to raise more than £200million in the coming years, which will be used to help drivers convert to electric cars.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
National News
NEWS
15
Hillsborough chief’s duties were ‘extraordinarily bad’
CROWDED OUT A packed House of Commons listens to Theresa May’s closing speech ahead of the vote
Vote of no confidence after huge defeat for May’s deal THERESA MAY suffered the biggest defeat for a government when her Brexit deal was rejected by 432 votes to 202 in the House of Commons last night [Tuesday]. The Prime Minister lost the Meaningful Vote by 230 – the previous worst defeat was 166 for Ramsay MacDonald’s Labour government in 1924. The Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, tabled a vote of no confidence in the government within minutes of the result being revealed.
Regret Mrs May said afterwards: “Tonight’s vote tells us nothing about what it does support, nothing about how or even if it intends to honour the decision that people took in a referendum. “EU citizens here and UK citizens in the EU deserve clarity as soon as possible.” The EU leaders published a coordinated
response which said: “We regret the outcome of the vote, and urge the UK Government to clarify its intentions with respect to its next steps as soon as possible.” They added: “The EU27 will remain united and responsible as we have been throughout the entire process and will seek to reduce the damage caused by Brexit. “We will continue our preparations for all outcomes, including a no-deal scenario. “The risk of a disorderly exit has increased with this vote and, while we do not want this to happen, we will be prepared for it.” Attorney General Geoffrey Cox had earlier indicated that Mrs May will resist pressure to tear up her plan or to seek cross-party consensus on a new approach. He told MPs the Withdrawal Agreement would have to return to the Commons later ‘in much the same form with much the same content’.
THE match-day police commander at Hillsborough has been accused of an ‘extraordinarily bad’ discharge of his professional duties and personal responsibility. This failure ‘contributed substantially’ to the deaths of 96 people, the jury heard on the first day of the trial of David Duckenfield at Preston Crown Court yesterday [Tuesday]. The former South Yorkshire Police chief superintendent, 74, denies the gross negligence manslaughter of 95 Liverpool fans at the 1989 FA Cup semi-final. Under the law at the time, there can be no prosecution for the death of the 96th victim, Tony Bland, as he died more than a year and a day after his injuries were caused.
Reasonable care Duckenfield appeared in court alongside former Sheffield Wednesday club secretary Graham Mackrell, 69, who is charged with contravening a term or condition of the stadium’s safety certificate and failing to discharge a duty under the Health and Safety Act. Richard Matthews QC, prosecuting, told jurors that Duckenfield, as match commander, had the ‘ultimate responsibility’ for the police operation as well as ‘personal responsibility’ to take reasonable care for the arrangements put in place, the command of those beneath him, the orders he gave and the decisions he made. He added: “It is the prosecution’s case that David Duckenfield’s failures to discharge this personal responsibility were extraordinarily bad and contributed substantially to the deaths of each of those 96 people who so tragically and unnecessarily lost their lives.” The court heard that the fatal crush at
MATCH COMMANDER David Duckenfield Hillsborough happened after an exit gate was opened to alleviate crowds outside. All 24,000 Liverpool fans were directed to the Leppings Lane end of the Sheffield Wednesday ground. The gate was opened following requests for Duckenfield. Mr Matthews said: “He did not, at any time, cause the start of the match to be put back with a view to thereby avoiding any crush at the turnstiles.” The court heard that, once through the gate, fans were met with a sign which read ‘standing’ above the tunnel leading to pens on the terrace fenced enclosures which were already full.
16
BUSINESS
National News
Savills warning over global uncertainties ESTATE agency Savills expects property sales in a number of markets to fall this year due to uncertainty about Brexit and US trade policy. The group said prospects are ‘overshadowed by macro-economic and political uncertainties across the world’. It added that it was difficult to predict the effect on investor demand for the property sector. Earlier, housebuilder Persimmon hiked full-year profit expectations thanks to increased production and a robust UK housing market. But the company warned that it remains mindful of economic uncertainty related to Brexit. But Savills said the decline in sales volumes should be offset by the less transactional businesses – such as its consultancy and property management business – which should result in a ‘broadly consistent’ trading performance this year compared with last year.
Sentiment During the last quarter of 2018, the company said its business lines delivered growth in revenue and profits thanks to its less transactional trading activities. This was achieved despite a period which saw heightened uncertainty surrounding Brexit, US-China trade relations and higher long-term treasury yields hitting investor sentiment in a number of global markets. For 2018 results are expected to be in line with expectations, with the commercial transaction business in the UK – which constitutes Savills’ biggest market – performing well thanks to robust demand from Asia Pacific, although the trade volume declined in comparison with 2017. The UK residential business increased its share of the market, while the consultancy and property management business, in the UK and globally, performed in line with expectations.
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Inflation to fall in line with changes in fuel and tobacco
DRIP DOWN EFFECT Petrol and diesel prices fell INFLATION is expected to have fallen in December to within a whisker of the Bank of England’s target, due to lower motor fuel and tobacco prices. Office for National Statistics [ONS] figures will reveal that the Consumer Prices Index [CPI declined to a 23-month low of 2.1 per cent in December – it stood at 2.3 per cent in November. This is near the central bank’s 2 per cent goal and inflation is expected to remain ‘comfortably below’ the target throughout this year, according to Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics. Prices in January could fall further due to a new cap on energy prices and hover around 1.8 per cent for the rest of the year. “A cap on energy prices alone will subtract 0.2 percentage points from the headline rate,” Mr Tombs said. “Throughout 2019, CPI inflation looks set to oscillate around 1.8 per cent, as a further fall in core goods inflation offsets a modest firming-up of services inflation.” However, he noted that Bank policymakers will be ‘more focused on the medium-term outlook for inflation and labour market developments,
than on current inflation’. As a result, he expects the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee to increase the Bank rate by 0.5 per cent to 1.25 per cent this year. Last month, it voted unanimously to keep rates unchanged at 0.75 per cent. Headline December inflation is expected to be dragged lower by a decline in tobacco inflation following recent tax hikes and a fall in motor fuel inflation after the Government’s petrol and diesel price data showed a 4.9 per cent monthon-month drop in December. Recent updates from retailers have suggested that dwindling consumer confidence forced both high street and online businesses to discount heavily in the run-up to the festive period. Mr Tombs said there is ‘no concrete evidence to back up anecdotal reports that retailers discounted more than usual before Christmas’. Both food inflation and services inflation are expected to remain steady at 0.5 per cent and 2.5 per cent respectively. However, Mr Tombs said a sharp shift in either direction cannot be ruled out for services inflation ‘given the unpredictability of the airline fares component in the last month of the year’.
NEWS IN BRIEF
1,000 at risk as M&S closes 17 more stores MORE than 1,000 jobs at Marks & Spencer are at risk as the retailer announced its latest round of store closures as part of a drastic transformation plan. It released a list of 17 stores proposed for closure on Tuesday, in a move which will affect 1,045 employees. As part of an accelerated programme, M&S is on track to close over 100 stores. To date 1,891 workers have been impacted.
Trouble at paper mill HUNDREDS of workers face uncertainty as a paper mill in production for nearly 250 years was placed into administration. Arjowiggins Fine Papers at Aberdeen’s Stoneywood Mill is one of a number of UK businesses facing the measure from French parent company Sequana. The mill has been in operation since 1770 and has a turnover of £120million but 489 staff face the threat of redundancy, along with 29 based in Basingstoke, Hampshire.
Ineos builds huge plant CHEMICALS giant Ineos is to make its biggest ever investment by building a new £2.6 billion plant in Belgium. The ethane gas ‘cracker’ unit will be built in Antwerp, bringing ‘huge benefits’ to Belgium and other European economies. Chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a supporter of Brexit, said he believed the investment would reverse years of decline in the sector. Ineos, which owns the huge Grangemouth refinery in Scotland, said the investment was a ‘game changer’ for the chemicals industry.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
China cultivates first plants on the Moon
LITTLE GREEN MONSTERS The Moon lander’s cotton seeds THE first seeds have sprouted on the Moon after they were cultivated by China’s Chang’e-4 mission, according to China National Space Administration. No biological matter has been grown on the Moon before, though plants have been cultivated on the International Space Station. The development is seen as a significant boost for long-term space exploration – such as a journey to Mars, which would take around two and a half years. The seeds were from cotton plants, which could be used to make clothing. Astronauts could also potentially harvest their own food in space, reducing the need to return to Earth for supplies. Chang’e 4 is the first mission to land on the far side of the Moon. It was carrying soil containing cotton, rapeseed and potato seeds, yeast, silkworm eggs and fruit fly eggs.
World News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Concern over trade conflicts after German economy slows GERMANY’S economic growth slowed last year to the weakest rate in five years. The slowdown added to worries about a global downturn and the impact of trade conflicts. But government statistics officials, who reported that growth eased to 1.5 per cent from 2.2 per cent in 2017, said Europe’s dominant economy did escape a feared recession in the fourth quarter. Growth in traditionally export-orientated Germany was supported by rising spending at home by consumers and by the government, the agency said. Unemployment remains low at 3.3 per cent and the economy has grown for nine straight years, cushioning the blow from weaker global trade. The slowdown fed fears about the 19-country euro currency union, which also faces the fallout after Britain’s departure from the EU.
While the US and Europe have imposed some tariffs on each other, the bigger trade war between the US and China has weighed on business confidence globally and hurt some of the big European companies that do business in those countries. China is Germany’s largest trade partner, measured in terms of trade turnover. It is also the world’s largest car market and supplies much of the profits for Germany’s auto industry, led by Daimler, Volkswagen and BMW. German output fell in the third quarter by 0.2 per cent, though the dip was attributed to temporary factors such as bottlenecks in registering cars caused by the new emissions testing rules. The statistics agency said there were ‘signs of a slight recovery’ in the fourth quarter compared with the third.
IN REVERSE China is key to car production
NEWS
17
20
NEWS
Letters
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor at Runcie Court, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG Ticket machines are driving me round the bend – to park somewhere else
TIME CONSUMING The new ticket machines are complicated ABOUT three months ago the payment machines at the Royal Victoria Place car park were changed. Previously, on floors one and two for example, there were three machines, all of which took coins. Now on the first floor there are only two machines and neither of them take coins. You have to use a card of some description and include all sorts of security information. You then have to wait whilst the card is checked online before getting your parking slip. All this takes a considerable amount of time. This is not only very inconvenient for you but means that queues build up behind you.
Casualties are rising – it’s time to act The article about the spate of road casualties [January 9] understates the scale of the problem. In 2017 more pedestrians and cyclists were killed or seriously injured on Kent roads than in any year since 2005. I know of ten pedestrian and two cyclist casualties in Tunbridge Wells since October 2018, including the tragic fatality of the pedestrian in High Brooms and a cyclist dragged under a bus, which could easily have been fatal. A key reason is that speeds on urban roads are too high. The World Health Organisation advises a 20mph speed limit on roads where people and vehicles mix. For the safety of pedestrians and cyclists we should follow that advice and implement 20mph on residential streets in Tunbridge Wells. If you agree, please sign the petition at 20splentyfortunbridgewells.moonfruit.com If you would like to help the police to enforce speed limits, please sign up at Community Speedwatch communityspeedwatch.org Adrian Berendt 20’s Plenty for Tunbridge Wells and Kent
Let’s listen to the bishop’s message It was great to hear the Bishop of Tonbridge highlighting the risks social media poses to our ability to listen and disagree well [January 2]. Local politics is a great antidote to this. I meet all sorts of people through involvement in the
It’s very annoying for all concerned. Another problem with this system is you have to check out afterwards by putting your card in again when you want to leave. Apart from the inconvenience of this, if you are waiting for others in the queue to use the machine, you can end up with your fee going over into another pay period, thus costing you more. You also have to retain the receipt to reconcile your card statement. Can we ever hope to see coin machines back in the town? Tony Smith Pembury local community – and not just those in my normal ‘circle’. Likewise, canvassing door-to-door is great fun as every individual and household is unique. I may not agree with their views, but listening to residents is the essential part. Perhaps some of the current Conservative administration could do with a few more hours on the doorstep, listening to people. Peter Lidstone Lib Dem Councillor for St John’s
Will councillors pay instead of us? Cllr David Scott claims with impressive confidence that the so-called Calverley Square development ‘will boost our local economy by £34million every year’ [January 2]. What happens if it doesn’t? What happens if it proves to be a drain on the local economy instead? What happens if the new theatre has to be closed because the council can’t afford to sustain the losses it incurs? Will Cllr Scott and his colleagues repay the money that will have been squandered to the taxpayers of Tunbridge Wells from their own resources? Will they accept personal liability for the consequences of their decisions? What do you say, Mr Scott? If you’re so confident, you should be happy to back your judgement with your own money. Peter Lovering Tunbridge Wells
Referendum was not all about trade There is no evidence to support Andrew Gray’s assertion that remaining in the EU is the likely potential outcome of his wished-for second referendum [January 2]. The 2016 referendum result is for the UK to leave the EU, so that question has already been decided. Sadly, I believe there will be another referendum with the intention of splitting the Leave vote by having the vote between accepting Mrs May’s deal or No Deal or Remaining. This, it will be hoped, will give the ‘correct’ result (remaining in the EU). I would urge everyone to read the Government briefing paper FCO/30/1048, which is online. It spells out the deliberate deception carried out by the then Conservative government before the 1975 referendum on the subject of our continued membership of the Common Market. In 1975, as now, the government was lying to the public that the issues are only about trade and the economy. I do not wish to live in a federal European state which is ruled by unelected commissioners, where national governments are reduced to the status of county councils. One wonders how the likes of Greg Clark [MP] will be able to justify their lavish pay, perks and pensions when that day comes – or perhaps he will consider it is none of our business? David Lower Marden
Take back control? Just stop the chaos Whichever way people voted on Brexit, it might be time we took a long, hard look at what sort of country we want to live in. Our news has been dominated for so long by Brexit that many issues seem to have been forgotten. Our number of homeless is increasing. The number now stands at 320,000 and is increasing every day. How many will die this year? Public Spaces Protection Orders are particularly cruel to the homeless, making sleeping on the streets an offence, but there are so often no safe places for them to go. Many people are there through no fault of their own. Our wildlife is being persecuted on a scale never seen before. Fox hunters are allowed to blatantly ignore the law. Even people without strong views about the subject must feel frustrated by the fact that hunters are allowed to break the law when the rest of us are not! Badgers are an iconic species which have been here for millions of years, yet this government is destroying millions of them for no scientific reason. As many as 33,000 have been killed this year alone. They have put a bounty on a protected species! Our wildlife is being destroyed; our homeless freezing on our streets; the health service, education and rail service are disintegrating in front of our eyes. While MPs argue over Brexit, it feels as if the country is descending into chaos. Valerie Russell Crowborough
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words
Calverley
Observations on life and more important things
CALVERLEY is this week launching a campaign. Everyone else appears to be doing it, so why not this column? This one, though, is a bit different; it’s about road signs. Himself firmly believes, after a few personal experiences, that we need a new sign warning about young people stepping off pavements into the road… while listening to deafening music on their headphones and focused firmly on their mobile phones checking Instagram or whatever. And these signs could justifiably be sited in numerous places. Letters and emails of support would be most welcome. MEMBERS of the clergy are working hard these days to get rid of the old stuffed shirt/blouse image. None more so than the relatively newly appointed Bishop of Tonbridge (and Tunbridge Wells). Not only is the Rt Rev Simon Burton-Jones a big fan of The Simpsons, he also loves his cricket. When asked by a fellow Times hack about his hopes for the coming year, he rattled off a list and then added: “Is it too much to ask for England to win the Cricket World Cup and regain the Ashes while we’re at it?” Yep – unless they get a wee bit of extra help.
CHARITY shops abound, and at the last count there were close to 20 in Tunbridge Wells alone – all run by volunteers apart from the head honchos. Indeed, the shops would not exist without those decent folk who give up their time and energy for no recompense. Well, that’s not exactly true. They do get free tea and biscuits, as evidenced by this poster in a local AGE UK shop. Calverley salutes these volunteers and all the others who help make our community tick. Oh yes, and thanks for the cheap books.
FINAL WORD: Our esteemed TW Council Leader David Jukes has been all at sea of late. No change there, then, shout the hordes baying at the gates of the Town Hall for his head (think Calverley Square). This time, though, he was on a thoroughly deserved cruise, returning much relaxed and reinvigorated. You have all been warned. Chin, Chin, dear reader
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Education
NEWS
21
EDUCATION Times Lessons for life Faced with all the challenges of the future, we asked the heads of two local schools to explain the benefits of a rounded education… We asked Helen Rowe, of Beechwood Sacred Heart, and Julie Lodrick, of Kent College Pembury, why a child’s education involves so much more than just acquiring the traditional three R skills of reading, writing and arithmetic. Also, why they believe a more rounded approach to learning benefits pupils in the long run: “Reading, writing and arithmetic are the indispensable building blocks of education. Just imagine how difficult your life would
be without these basic skills. “And they are also the keys to higher level skills and knowledge. “Yet as the world becomes more complex their relative importance in education declines. Now try to imagine how your life would be armed only with these skills? Virtually impossible in the modern world, and certainly incredibly boring! “Finally, imagine a world where machines can do many of the things humans do better, faster and more cheaply than we can. This world is nearly upon us. So the idea of a ‘more rounded education’ takes on a far more critical importance. “In addition to teaching our children the higher level mathematical and scientific skills needed to create and control these technologies of the future we also need to teach them the skills which machines may never possess: Empathy, teamwork, morality, resilience, character, bravery, creativity and finally, of course, imagination.” MRS HELEN ROWE Head of Beechwood Sacred Heart School Tunbridge Wells beechwood.org.uk Open Day: Wednesday March 13, 9:30am-12noon
“The traditional way to measure an effective school is to look at its GCSE and A level results. However, the true mark of a school is one that can significantly improve pupils’ grades. One might think that this is an intangible thing that can’t easily be measured. “Thankfully, through the power of statistics, we can get a clear picture of this. The most recent set of data from the University of Durham shows that Kent College is around the eighth
best school in the UK at improving pupils’ grades and the number one school for English. “On average, last year, Kent College girls achieved one grade higher than predicted for every GCSE they sat and, in some cases, gained over two grades. What an astonishing accomplishment. “How do we achieve this? “Whilst we believe that the ‘three Rs’ underpin a child’s academic development, it is our bespoke, holistic approach to education which allows pupils to flourish. When a pupil is seen as an individual, a love of learning readily flows.” MRS JULIE LODRICK Headmistress, Kent College Pembury kent-college.co.uk Open Days: Wednesday January 16 Senior School Open House Wednesday January 16 Prep School Explore and Play Wednesday March 5 Whole School Open Morning Book online at kent-college.co.uk
22
NEWS
Education
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Celebrating a centenary in 2019 This year sees the 100th anniversary of Sevenoaks Prep School. We discover how they will be marking this monumental educational milestone, including embarking on their most ambitious building project to date THE school will have a full and varied calendar of events to celebrate its 100th birthday. The events aim to bring together the school community: Pupils, staff, parents, governors and alumni, and to commemorate the rich heritage and history that formed the foundations of a Sevenoaks Prep education. Pupils, staff and parents will also be taking part in community projects (including the 100 Club, below) and the school’s charity for the year will be Save The Children, which is also marking its centenary in 2019.
100 Club Every pupil, staff member and governor will undertake a centenary challenge during the year and, once completed, will join the 100 Club and be awarded a commemorative wristband. Challenges will have a community focus and include 100 acts of kindness; the donation of 100 toys to local hospitals; the collection of 100 discarded plastic items from the countryside; sending 100 pairs of glasses to a developing country; and more.
History Local historian David Williams has written a history of the school’s first 100 years. Compiled from hours of research, both from local sources and from the archives, this history has been able to determine the precise origins of the school in 1919 and chart its history through WW2, from Vine Court Road to Godden Green, and through to the present day. The launch of the book will take place on the Centenary Day on Saturday June 15.
New centre During 2019, the school will open a Centenary Centre. This will provide a new heart for The prep. Not only will the new building house facilities for teaching science, art, maths, languages, humanities and digital learning, it will also have an inspiring central space which will serve as a library and an area for The prep community to gather.
LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT 100 YEARS Sevenoaks Prep
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Education
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
NEWS
23
New science lab boosts lessons of the future Tonbridge School opens its stateof-the-art science department TONBRIDGE SCHOOL’S new Barton Science Centre opens this month. This impressive, up-to-the-minute development puts the 466-year-old independent establishment at the cutting edge of school science, with the aim of further stimulating future generations of young scientific minds. The science centre will also have
SHINING EXAMPLE The appliance of science at Tonbridge School
a wider public benefit as a regional hub and centre of excellence. Tonbridge plans, for instance, to expand its popular programme of ‘Science for Schools’ days for local pupils, and will be holding public lectures and other events there. The official opening on Saturday March 23 will include the chance
to meet NASA astronauts, as Tonbridge becomes the first school in the UK to host ‘Mission Discovery’, a course in which young people design an experiment to be carried out on the International Space Station. An international student science conference and a schools competition for Year 9 pupils are also being planned. Bill Burnett, Tonbridge’s Head of Science, described the centre as
‘innovative, fun and inspirational’. He went on to say: “Science will be at the centre of school life, and our teaching and learning will be pioneering within our new space.
Exciting “This is an exciting new chapter.” One of the most ambitious developments to be seen on the campus since the
first science building was constructed in 1887, the Barton Science Centre combines new classrooms and the latest technology, while including many original architectural features. There is even a greenhouse and a roof-top garden. The centre is named after British organic chemist Sir Derek Barton, an Old Tonbridgian, who won the Nobel Prize 50 years ago, in 1969. tonbridge-school.co.uk
24
NEWS
Weekly Comment
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Nus Ghani
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Nus Ghani was elected MP for Wealden in May 2015 and represents Crowborough, Eridge and Uckfield, among other towns and villages. She also currently serves as Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State at the Department for Transport and is Assistant Government Whip. In 2018, Ms Ghani became the first Muslim woman to speak from the House of Commons Despatch Box. The Times also publishes comment from the Labour, Liberal Democrat and Green parties
Conservative MP for Wealden
Long Term Plan protects NHS now and into the future LAST summer, I was delighted to see the biggest ever funding increase for our NHS. How to fund the NHS in the long-term is one of the most pressing and potent issues facing the country and it was great to see the Government commit an additional £20.5 billion for the NHS by 2023/24. Our doctors, nurses and everyone who works for the NHS in East Sussex are the true unsung heroes in our communities, and the new money the Government are putting in has allowed for a new deal for over one million NHS workers over three years – a 6.5 per cent pay rise.
Challenging Demand for the NHS continues to rise, and as the population ages, there are a growing number of widespread chronic conditions which will be increasingly expensive and challenging to address. That’s why a credible and effective plan to fund the NHS and social care is so important, and last week the NHS set out how it will use the extra funding to continue to deliver some of the best healthcare in the world. The NHS’ Long Term Plan has been established to protect the NHS now and into the future. While general wellbeing has been a part of healthcare
TUNBRIDGE WELLS HOSPITAL Addressing the challenges of the future for some time, the Long Term Plan is establishing a focus on prevention, not just curing illness. In addition to existing information campaigns focusing on individual wellbeing, one of the flagship campaigns of the Long Term Plan is for new screening methods that will include earlier testing for bowel cancer, more targeted
Peter Lidstone
screening, and the establishment of Rapid Access Diagnostic Centres to enable doctors to give a diagnosis on the same day as testing. The aim is that, in 10 years’ time, 55,000 more people will survive cancer each year, and 100,000 heart attacks, strokes and dementia cases will have been prevented.
Tunbridge Wells councillor
This is just one example of how the Long Term Plan signals our determination to transform health care for people at every stage in life. You can read more about this, including greater commitments to the workforce, outcomes, health inequalities and mental health on my website at www.nusghani.org.uk/NHS.
Liberal Democrat Peter Lidstone became the youngest member of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council when he was elected in 2016 aged 32. He represents St John’s ward on the authority, and was the only candidate to dislodge a Conservative opponent at that year’s count. Having previously worked for the charity Build Africa, he now works in London as Information and Reporting Manager at Save the Children. His interest in politics came after attending a Christian Aid conference on the subject.
A question for Tunbridge Wells Conservative councillors tations of 400,000 tickets per year (compared with around 100,000 per year at the Assembly Hall), the theatre will require a subsidy to run. If this happens, people who can’t afford a theatre trip will be supporting those who can, through increases in council tax, fees and charges and stripped back council services.
Controversial It therefore becomes vital that with such a controversial project, fair process is seen to be followed both in private and in public - especially when politicians nationally are viewed in such a poor light due to the divisiveness of Brexit. At all levels today, politicians need to be transparent and open with voters. I am aware that invitations to Cabinet Ministers are booked at considerable notice, however, the public inquiry has also been scheduled for a considerable time and personally I think someone in the Conservative party should have considered how this event might be perceived by the residents of Tunbridge Wells. My question is therefore this; can the Conservative Councillors assure residents that at no time during this dinner with the Secretary of State, was the subject of the public inquiry raised, and that no attempt was made to influence due process? I am sure that I, among many other people, will welcome their response and look forward to a fair and impartial review.
Picture courtesy of Facebook
LAST week the Secretary of State for Housing & Communities Rt Hon James Brokenshire was invited to the Tunbridge Wells Conservative Dinner at High Rocks. There is nothing inherently wrong with having a dinner with a Minister. However this particular Minister is responsible for a public inquiry next month into the Conservative Council’s controversial new town hall complex CPOs; Compulsory Purchase Orders the Council needs to make in order for the development to happen. The decision itself is delegated to an Inspector in Mr Brokenshire’s department, but the potential for conflict of interest here is as clear as day, and should have been equally apparent to the Tunbridge Wells Conservatives. People have different reasons for opposing the theatre and town hall project. For me it is mainly a case of economics; the Conservatives claim that this project will boost retail in Tunbridge Wells. However, as any local person knows, the area of town that is suffering most from empty retail space is the top of our town. Whereas the area around the station and High street has significantly less empty retail space. At a time of economic uncertainty building a theatre is a poor choice for economic development, requiring people with relative high levels of disposable income to support it. The Council needs to borrow almost £80 million to support the theatre and town hall project. If the ticket numbers do meet the claimed expec-
GUEST: Rt Hon James Brokenshire (left) at the Conservative Dinner with Tracy Moore and councillors
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
WITH THE
Move Times
AVAILABLE EVER Y WEDNESDAY – A MUST-READ
ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PROPERTY, IN TERIORS, & TOP TRENDS
INSPIRATION FOR MOVING AND IMPROVING timeslocalnews.co.uk
26
A BRILLIANT SUSSEX BARN
30
Convenient new builds For commuters Page 45
A SUPERB REFURBISHED PROPERTY
41
CORNER A HOUSE IN ‘THE VILLAGE’
Winter warmers
To cosy up your home Page 39
47
BEAT THE HORROR OF BURST PIPES
26
Move
WITH THE
Times
Best For FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Best property buys for... We all love to see homes with the ‘wow’ factor – which could apply to the kitchen, reception room, garden or something else. Sarah Bond homes in on specific aspects that make these properties well worth a look… The OPEN-PLAN LIVING…
Pennybridge Barn
Pennybridge Lane, Mayfield
Offers in excess of
£2,200,000
CONTACT • Hamptons International, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 516611 • hamptons.co.uk A magnificent, refurbished Grade II-Iisted 18th-century barn and attached annexe in the rolling Sussex countryside, set amid beautiful landscaped gardens with a separate paddock. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
n Stylish open-plan living area with vaulted ceiling comprising: A sitting area with fireplace, casual dining area, and kitchen/breakfast area with hand-crafted cabinetry and Aga n Drawing room with inglenook fireplace n Dining room n Family room n 2 cloakrooms n Principal bedroom with en-suite bathroom n 4 further bedrooms, one en suite n Shower room and bathroom Attached annexe n Independent access n Open-plan living area with kitchen n Bedroom with en-suite shower room Outside n L-shaped swimming pool with terrace and pool house n Kitchen garden and paddock n Detached triple garage and steel barn n In total, approximately 5.67 acres
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Best For
Move
WITH THE
Times 27
The PRICE… The REFLECTED BEAUTY…
Shipbourne Road Tonbridge
£325,000 CONTACT • Barnes Kingsnorth, Tonbridge • 01732 771616 • bkestateagents.com An older-style family home in the north of the town, within walking distance of primary and senior schools
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Light and airy sitting room with gas fire n Spacious fitted kitchen/diner n Ground floor family bathroom including shower, with separate WC n 3 upstairs bedrooms n 120ft rear garden with shed/workshop n 2 off-road parking spaces n No onward chain
The Oast House
Park Corner, Eridge Road Groombridge
Guide price
£1,100,000 CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk An oast conversion full of character lying almost midway between Groombridge village and Eridge railway station. For those in search of a project, there is further potential to extend or remodel, subject to the necessary local authority consents.
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
The Nest
Burrswood, Groombridge
Price range
£675,000£695,000 CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk
n Dining room with doors to garden
Set amid glorious grounds, this detached residence with leaded light windows is part of the 120-acre Burrswood Estate. The Nest enjoys beautiful views across the grounds and the rear garden backs directly on to farmland.
n Kitchen/breakfast room with gas Aga
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
n Master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite shower room
n Triple-aspect through sitting room
n Guest bedroom with en-suite shower room
n L-shaped kitchen/breakfast room
n Roundel sitting room featuring a raised tiled hearth with brick feature and fitted wood burner
n 2 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Delightful park-like grounds with pond and colonial-style summerhouse with veranda n Driveway with parking for several vehicles n Integral garage and detached garage
n Double-aspect dining room n Downstairs shower room n Box/cot room n 4 bedrooms n Bathroom n Front and rear gardens with greenhouse
30
Move
WITH THE
Times
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Pennington Road
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
AT A GLANCE PENNINGTON ROAD SOUTHBOROUGH n A Victorian semi-detached house spread across four floors n Arched entrance to striking hallway n Triple-aspect double reception room with period cast iron gas fire, natural stone mantel and roof terrace n Vast kitchen/breakfast/dining room with island and doors to terrace n Cloakroom and utility room n Family room n Bedroom with en-suite bathroom n 3 further double bedrooms, one with stunning open countryside views n Shower room n Large loft space n Front and rear gardens with terraces, pergola and shed n Drive providing off-street parking
Offers in excess of
£1,000,000
CONTACT • Flying Fish Properties, Southborough • 01892 514189 • flyingfishproperties.co.uk
Superbly remodelled Victorian house within walking distance of the town’s cricket green
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Interiors
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Move
WITH THE
Times 39
All things chic and cosy As the weather gets colder, now is the time to turn your home into a stylish cocooning space, says Eileen Leahy the place, on table tops, a mantelpiece and shelving, is another simple trick to give a room a soothing and inviting aura. If it’s time for a revamp of your décor, then why not embrace the dark arts of using inkier tones on accent accessories, or – if you’re feeling bold – how about splashing some on your walls? Deep greens and blues and rich ochres and greys are all very popular choices right now and certainly help to conjure up a cocooning and dramatic effect. Do your research, though, by using a few tester pots to get the right shade for your space, and be careful that it works as well as it does in daylight as it does in that dappled evening glow created by candlelight. It’s a good idea to stick to a certain colour scheme to avoid overkill or headache-inducing clashing. So, for example, as this beautiful Amara shot shows, you can work pops of deep purple with charcoal, and a little smattering of gilt and oatmeal, which will keep things feeling on the right side of dramatic and not dirgeful. For instant inspiration for your decorating project head to the brilliant HomeSense for a wealth of unique pieces that will give your space a stylish stamp without costing a fortune. And don’t forget the inexpensive home ranges at Matalan, Sainsbury’s and Dunelm. These are all great interiors treasure troves where you’ll find all your heart – and home – desires for incredible prices. Stock up on photo frames, rugs, atmsopheric lighting and candles and your abode will pay you back with the very warmest of welcomes!
LIGHTEN UP Faux gold pendant light, £10, George at Asda, asda.com
PURPLE PATCH Berry Monroe Square Cushion, £50, Soho Home, sohohome.com
ROUND AND ROUND Tom Dixon Brass Orbit Trays, £100, Amara, amara.com
TOTALLY TROPICAL Urban Paradise glass candle with lid, £8, Sainsbury’s Home, available from stores nationwide
GOLDEN WONDER Melena Round Side Table, £119, John Lewis, johnlewis. com
COME ON IN Colours to make your home a haven
FLORAL TRIBUTE Selection of faux floral stems, from £2.99, Homesense, homesense.com
MAIN IMAGE COURTESY OF AMARA
W
ITH the days due to remain pretty dark and miserable for the next couple of months, it’s a good time to ensure that your home is as warm and welcoming as possible. After all, when the day is done there’s nothing better than closing the door on the hectic world – and inclement weather – and settling into a snug home. Just the thought of digging your toes into a luxurious deep pile rug or cosying up on a welcoming sofa with flickering candles and a warm, gentle glow from the fireplace is sure to make that wait at the station, or hectic day at work, a lot easier to deal with. But what if your home exudes about as much warmth and convivial spirit as the North Pole? Then it’s time to start layering it with warmth and love. Why? Because our homes should act as a sanctuary from the stress and strife of life. And although you might have all the practical elements in place, such as seating, a rug and lighting, you will also need those all-important finishing touches to avoid anything looking cold and sterile. Think ambient illumination, vases of fresh or faux florals, and lots of textural accessories in sheepskin, velvet or chunky knits. If you have a fireplace that’s fully operational then that’s a huge bonus, as there’s nothing like the crackle of a real fire or the glowing embers of a wood burner to instantly inject some heat, quite literally, into a room. But if this is not an option, then clusters of candles or lanterns are a good inexpensive alternative. Indeed, placing little votives about
SOFT TOUCH MW by Matthew Williamson lilou teal cushion, £40, Debenhams, debenhams.com
Get the look You’ve read all about how to get your home looking and feeling stylish and snug, now here’s how to do it with these key pieces
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Little
Mount Sion
Move
WITH THE
Times 41
A surprisingly spacious Grade II listed corner house in the ‘village’ area of Tunbridge Wells AT A GLANCE LITTLE MOUNT SION TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Attached house with accommodation over 4 floors n Entrance hall n Open-plan living area with feature fireplace and log-burning stove. Includes: n Double-aspect dining room n Kitchen with Shaker-style units n Triple-aspect living room with oriel window and seat n Utility room n Top floor master bedroom with far-reaching views and en-suite bathroom featuring a stand-alone roll-top bath n 3 further bedrooms n Shower room n Courtyard garden n Approximately ¼ mile from Tunbridge Wells mainline station and The Pantiles
GUIDE PRICE
£875,000 CONTACT • Knight Frank, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 515035 • knightfrank.co.uk
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Property Focus
High Brooms Road Tunbridge Wells
NEW HOMES £450,000 CONTACT TUCKED AWAY Right beside the station
Regal Gate
far end of the station platform, so it couldn’t be handier for commuters! Adding to the appeal, the price has been reduced and there are incentives available. Take a virtual tour via the agent’s website.
n Bedroom with sliding wardrobe
• Kings Estates, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533367 • kings-estates.co.uk
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
n Solar panels providing electricity for the communal areas
The last remaining new build apartment in a small and intriguing development nestled amid leafy surrounds behind the High Street and right above the
n Electronic door entry system
High Street Tunbridge Wells New guide price
£220,000 CONTACT
n Gated development with just 4 apartments n Flush oak-veneered doors with sleek chrome furniture n Reception room n Contemporary kitchen with built-in appliances
• Hunni Homes, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 888333 • hunnihomes.co.uk
New Homes
Move
Another one good for commuters – a bespoke 3-bedroom semi-detached family home a short walk from High Brooms mainline station. Built by a local family company, it has been finished to a high standard and, again, is the last one in a new development.
WITH THE
Times 45
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Living room n Feature kitchen/breakfast room n 3 bedrooms, 1 en suite n Bathroom n Low-maintenance enclosed courtyard garden n Brick-paved driveway for off-street parking
n Bathroom with stylish Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware n Electric central heating and energy-efficient lighting n Private courtyard garden
n Incentives available for a January 2019 completion n Furniture Pack from a selection provided for new reservations based on a 28-day exchange
LAST CHANCE To buy at this High Brooms development
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Property News Water, water everywhere... THAT is not a cry residents ever want to hear – especially after last week’s criticism by watchdog Ofwat of how the water companies dealt with bad weather damage last winter. At the same time South East Water issued a warning that there have been burst pipes already this winter – a problem that is expected to get worse during the coming cold snaps. Steve Andrews, Head of Operations at South East Water said: “Burst pipes are a very unpleasant and inconvenient problem, and when they happen inside the boundary of a property are usually the responsibility of the householder to repair. “To avoid a burst water pipe, homeowners can take some easy steps to protect pipes and taps by lagging them with our free insulation kits and tap protectors available from our website (southeastwater.co.uk) or by buying industry approved lagging from DIY stores.” The company also advised people to write down the name of a local qualified plumber in case of an emergency. Online directory WaterSafe is the plumbing industry’s national accreditation body and has a list of approved plumbers. Call 0333 207 9030 or visit watersafe.org.uk
Protection The message is that both pipe protection and insurance protection are important, and the HomeOwners Alliance has urged owners and renters to prepare against possible disasters. They warn that damage due to ‘escape of water’ is the most common claim made to insurance companies, and claims can increase at this time of year as the temperature starts to drop and pipes start to freeze. They further report that the damage can be more extensive than you think. According to comparison site Finder, the average claim for a burst water pipe is £25,000, and the insurance industry pays out £2.5million every day to customers as a result of burst pipes. FIND A LOCAL QUALIFIED PLUMBER And keep the contact details handy in case of an emergency
Worryingly, however, not everyone has the option of getting an insurance payout to pick up the pieces after a burst pipe. Finder recently reported that five million homes in the UK don’t have any form of home insurance, while less than a fifth (19%) of home contents insurance policies and only a quarter (25%) of home buildings policies include cover for home emergencies as standard. So read on to find out what you can you do to protect yourself… GET THE RIGHT INSURANCE ■ The HomeOwners Alliance say their partners, APlan insurance, have over 50 years of finding the best value home insurance cover. If you haven’t got cover, you can call them on 08000 325935 for a quote. ■ If you already have home contents insurance, give your provider a call and make sure you understand what your policy covers. TAKE PRACTICAL STEPS With the help of Water UK, the alliance has issued the following advice on how to protect against burst pipes: ■ Insulate water tanks and lag pipes You can buy lagging material from most DIY stores. Look for Water Regulations Advisory Scheme [WRAS] approved insulation. ■ If you have any dripping taps, fix them! ■ Find your property’s stopcock or valve and make sure you can turn it off if necessary. It’s often under the kitchen sink. ■ Make sure your boiler has been serviced. ■ Try to minimise draughts from outside and close doors and windows, particularly in unheated parts of the property. ■ If you have pipes in the roof area, open the loft hatch to allow warm air to circulate, and check your loft insulation ■ If you’re going away, leave the heating on low and, if you’re going to be away for a while, turn off the water at the stopcock and drain the system.
Property News
Move
WITH THE
Times 47
PHOTO: Oakwrights and Mark Welsh
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Build It Live Kent February show dates THE dates have been announced and tickets are now on sale for Build It Live 2019 at the Kent Event Centre in Detling on the weekend of February 9-10. The show provides inspiration and guidance to thousands of visitors wanting to either build their own home or add space and value to their current property. It will be easy to talk to leading experts who can make designing and building your own home a reality, whatever your budget, from planning and design to construction. You can even show them your plans for tips on making your project a success. But the experts are popular, so make sure you book a session early in the day for a free face-to-face consultation. You will also meet many of the UK’s leading suppliers and see a wealth of products on display:
■ New for 2019 is the Heating Advice Clinic, where you can find out the pros and cons of different heating systems from gas boilers (mains and LPG) to oil, ground source, air source, biomass to stoves and solar. ■ In the Naked House can see a section of a new build home as it comes together. Get firsthand insight into how products and materials
are installed, from insulating concrete formwork [ICF] to underfloor heating. ■ When it comes to finding the right plot, you can get expert guidance in The Land Zone. ■ And you can visit the Find a Builder stand, where the Federation of Master Builders [FMB] can help you to find a Master Builder who is right for you. They can also advise on warranties to protect you. The shows are organised by Build It Magazine, the UK’s longest running self-build title, and visitors can gain confidence from readers who have already realised their self-build dreams. Hear their stories, ask them questions and gain tips on how to avoid common pitfalls. In addition, there are dozens of free live daily workshops and seminars, including ones on eco-friendly construction. The show will be open on Saturday February 9 between 10am and 5pm and Sunday February 10 between 10am and 4.30pm. The standard ticket price is £12 per person. Children under 16 are admitted free with an accompanying adult. Tickets are valid on either day or can be used to attend on both days. For further information and to book, visit builditlive.co.uk
Agents make it a very happy 150th birthday by awarding staff their own birthdays off!
LOCAL: Hamptons Tunbridge Wells branch LEADING estate agency Hamptons International, which has a branch in Tunbridge Wells, is celebrating its 150th birthday this year. To commemorate the milestone, the business will have events and campaigns taking place throughout the year, including each member of staff being gifted their own birthday off in 2019. For clients, the 150th property of the year to be sold or let will be done so for free. Hamptons has also committed to make this its biggest year of fundraising yet in support of its charity partner Cancer Research UK. In a ‘Challenge 150’ initiative, each member of the business has pledged to raise £150 to collectively raise in excess of £150,000 by the year end.
To date, Hamptons has raised almost a quarter of a million pounds for Cancer Research. And later in 2019, ‘Project Planet’ will focus on making the business more environmentally conscious. Hamptons started life in 1869 with an office in Pall Mall, eight members of staff, and with George Hampton named as the Managing Director. Fast forward 150 years, and Hamptons International now has a network of over 90 offices in London and the South, employing over 1,000 members of staff. Outside the UK, it is represented in over 30 countries. Managing Director Lesley Cairns said: “2019 is set to be a wonderful year of celebration for the entire business.”
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Life&Times
ARTS & CULTURE LIFE & STYLE FOOD & DRINK MOTORING SPORT and MORE...
IN PRINT AND ONLINE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK timeslocalnews.co.uk
A noteable appointment
50
We talk to the RTW Orpheus Male Voice Choir’s new director Page 51
A TRIBUTE TO DAVID BOWIE
52
SEE SHAKESPEARE LIVE
60
TOP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Spot on
70
Why The Spotted Dog is the perfect country pub Page 56
WELLS FIGHTBACK IS TOO LATE
Life&Times
arts
50
Arts & CultureFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Your chance to see a Starman celebrating
the golden years of David Bowie
It would have been David Bowie’s 72nd birthday last week, and as a tribute to the late, great musician, the Bowie Experience will be performing their Golden Years tour at the Assembly Hall on Saturday evening. Here, the Times meets the group’s frontman, Laurence Knight, who is proof that Bowie’s music will never go out of fa-fa-fashion… Can you tell us a little bit about your career in music so far? I was at music college in the late 90s, and in the evenings and weekends I would go out with various covers bands playing the pubs and clubs. Most musicians like something from David Bowie’s back catalogue, so we would often perform a song or two by him. Some band – and audience – members started telling me that when I sung his songs I sounded like him and that I should do something with that. I wasn’t particularly keen at the time as I was writing and recording my own material and trying to perform and promote that.
FROM A TO ZIGGY The Bowie Experience’s tribute to the star’s Golden Years
How did you go on to become a David Bowie tribute act then? To cut a long story short, it became apparent that although I believed in my original material, no one else did! And so, as a huge fan of David Bowie, the idea of doing some kind of tribute was an attractive notion. I put a band together and had a go and it seemed to work, so I did another and then another, and that’s how it’s been ever since. I must say, I didn’t anticipate what a ride it would be;
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
it’s taken me to all sorts of parts of the world that I probably otherwise wouldn’t have gone to, and I’ve met some pretty interesting people along the way. You’re considered to be one of the best Bowie impersonators in the world. What period of David’s career do you favour the most? I am a fan of his so I am fond of (nearly) everything he did, but if I had to choose tracks for my sojourn on that desert island I would choose what they call his Berlin period, namely the Low, Heroes and Lodger albums, then up to and including the album Scary Monsters. Then it would jump to 1996 and his album Outside and go right up to his last one; Blackstar. What’s your favourite song to perform from the set with your backing band, and why? It’s difficult to pick, but some songs do have something really particular about them, such as Lady Grinning Soul (from Aladdin Sane), which is enjoyable because of the voice sound. I also like Hallo Spaceboy, Fame, as it’s set to a great rhythm, and Sound and Vision, which to me sounds like a sonic vision from a futuristic 1950s. Tell us about all the costumes you wear on stage to reflect each of David’s different ‘characters’ such as Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke…
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk David Bowie
Arts & Culture
Life&Times
51
A noteworthy musical appointment The Royal Tunbridge Wells Orpheus Male Voice Choir has a new director – all the way from Hong Kong. Eileen Leahy meets Kent Lee, who has relocated to Tonbridge, and finds out what he has in store for the 80-year-old choral society
They are amazingly authentic and often there are audible gasps from the audience at each costume change. There are ten in total, and at the end of the show we do a number that people can sing along to if they wish. When an audience really goes for it, it’s so affirming. I feel we have truly connected. You’ve performed as Bowie at the Royal Albert Hall and also at his retrospective at the V&A. What aspects of his character are most fun to portray on stage? Each one has such a rich seam to be explored, so to choose just a couple of aspects is like trying to unpick a woolly jumper! The fun comes in the shape of the pattern that emerges as you discover the more subtle sides of his imagination.
The Bowie Experience is on at the Assembly Hall on Saturday January 19 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £24.50 from assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
THE Royal Tunbridge Wells Opheus Male Voice Choir was founded in 1938, just before the outbreak of the Second World War. Yet despite the chaos that brought, it stoically decided to continue performing at local venues, thus providing muchneeded entertainment for the town as well as raising large sums for the war effort. Over the past eight decades, Orpheus, as it’s known, has become one of the area’s most respected and beloved choirs. And last year it celebrated its 80th birthday with a series of special concerts in Ypres and Rochester Cathedral, and even received recognition from Buckingham Palace. Not resting on its laurels, Orpheus kicked off 2019 by appointing a new musical director, Kent Lee, to ensure its popularity and longevity continues. Mr Lee, who is originally from Hong Kong but now lives in Tonbridge with his wife and two daughters, trained at London’s Trinity College of Music, and it’s fair to say he has a very impressive classical music CV. As well as being a talented musician and educator, he founded the Hong Kong City Philharmonia and was Music Director of the Hong Kong Wind Symphony. Mr Lee has also been in charge of numerous choral societies, A NEW including The Cecilian DIRECTION Singers, the Standard Kent Lee Chartered Bank Choir,
IN TUNE Mr Lee (left) and the choir the English Choir of The Hong Kong Catholic Cathedral, and the Diocesan Choir of the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong. Such celestial choral experience clearly helped his appointment with Orpheus: “I would have to say it was in God’s hands,” he says. “I rejoined my family in the UK last summer and the timing was perfectly matched with the opening of the Music Director position.” Once Mr Lee had been given the role, he says he was able to form a ‘natural connection’ with the choir immediately: “The history, enthusiasm and friendliness really appealed. There are friendships among members and they support each other. They are open to new ideas and keen to improve themselves musically. And I hope that I can use my expertise to
bring the joy of music to the community, creating memories and great music together.” Talking of community, what does Mr Lee hope this Thursday’s special showcase at St Peter’s Church in Bayhall Road will give to those who attend it? “People will truly enjoy the process of music making; meet great people; and learn to express themselves through singing,” he promises. And how is he finding life in Tonbridge? “It is a beautiful town with lots of charm. People are extremely friendly. I enjoy the pace of life there and have already made a lot of good friends. The best part is seeing the blue sky and trees while I am teaching on my grand piano at home. “I love strolling in Tonbridge park along the River Medway and visiting Haysden Park with my family. My daughters like feeding the swans and ducks.” The Royal Tunbridge Wells Orpheus Male Voice Choir Open Evening starts at 7.30pm on January 17 at St Peter’s Church, Bayhall Road. Visit rtworpheusmvc.org
52
Life&Times
Going Out
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
goingout 7 days of activities
By Imogen Boullé
THE POWER AND THE PASSION… See Ralph Fiennes and Sophie Okonedo play Antony & Cleopatra at the EM Forster Theatre
WEDNESDAY Book a seat for the screening of NT Live – Anthony & Cleopatra (Encore) at the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge. Ralph Fiennes and Sophie Okonedo play Shakespeare’s ill-fated lovers in the National Theatre’s telling of this tragic tale of passionate love, politics and power. Tickets start at £15 and can be purchased at emftheatre.com THURSDAY Take a chance with some Speed Dating this Thursday at the Vittle and Swig restaurant in
Camden Road. This is a great way to meet other singles while having a drink. You will have the whole evening to mingle before seeing who you have matched with the next day via an online matching system. Who knows what could happen? The event starts at 7.30pm and tickets can be booked via originaldating.com/tunbridge-wells FRIDAY You gotta’ see Faith at the Assembly Hall Theatre – a celebration of George Michael’s career bringing to life the musical journey of one of
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
the UK’s most famous singersongwriters, which spanned 35 years. This new show will regale you with all his greatest hits and have you singing along in no time. Tickets are priced from £23.50 per adult. For more information, visit assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Slip on your dancing soles for a night of soul music at The Grey GET ON YOUR Lady. The Soul Kitchen music SKATEBOARDS night starts at 7.30pm and finishes For ‘snazzy’ sessions in the park at 1am. Admission is £5 on the door. A playlist of classic soul music, all on vinyl, will fill any fan’s desire this picnics are welcome. Doors open at 7.30pm for Friday night. For more information, visit a 7.50pm kick off. Tickets are £5 per contestant. thegreylady.co.uk For more information, see the Tonbridge Calling Facebook page. Tickets can be booked at SATURDAY eventbrite.co.uk Keep the kids occupied on Saturday and take The Beau Nash Tavern is hosting a disco them along to Snazzy Skateboarding at night from 9pm till 12midnight. Grosvenor and Hilbert Park for a free Disco Odyssey will have a six-piece workshop from Team Rubicon at the skate band playing a host of classics, park. The workshop starts at 10am and so get your four-on-the-floor ends at 3pm and is suitable for all fix with no entry fee! More ages and abilities, but children information can be found at must be accompanied by an adult. beau-nash.co.uk This event is free but you will From 9am-11am, St Philip’s need to book by emailing: emma. Church, Tonbridge will be peters@tunbridgewells.gov.uk hosting Big Questions Fuel your competitive streak: Get and Bacon Butties – a a team together and head down relaxed discussion and to the Tonbridge Calling Quiz introduction to faith. at the New Telegraph Club and All are welcome. For help raise funds for the 2019 any enquires, please summer festival. Teams can call 01732 352416. include up to eight players, and any individuals will SUNDAY be aided with finding If this is the year for your a team. big day, head along to Your own Hever Castle for their snacks and Wedding Showcase STEP BACK IN TIME At the Salomon Estate Tea Dance
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
GET READY FOR ROMANCE With all the trimmings at Hever Castle’s Wedding Showcase
Going Out
PICK OF THE WEEK: Ladies in Lavender
January 19-26 The Oast Theatre, Tonbridge
The Oast Theatre in Tonbridge is staging an amateur production of Shaun McKenna’s classic adaptation of William
to check out this beautiful and historical venue. With food and drink on display from a range of award-winning caterers, you can meet the team who could be providing you with everything to make your day go as smoothly as possible. The event starts at 12noon and ends at 4pm. For more information, visit hevercastle.co.uk See the cult show The Chicago Blues Brothers – Europe’s biggest and best loved production of the Blues Brothers – at the Assembly Hall Theatre. The performance includes classic Motown hits, backed by the multi-award winning CBB Band and the Sweet Soul Sisters. Tickets cost from £24.50 per adult and can be booked online at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Ballet lovers can watch Bolshoi Live: La Bayadere from Moscow – a production of one of the greatest works in classical ballet history. Experience this tragic and passionate tale at the Odeon Cinema at 3pm. Tickets are priced at £23.25 and can be bought via the Odeon website odeon.co.uk MONDAY Enjoy taking a twirl back to the first half of the 20th century in the perfect setting of the theatre
at a Grade II listed Victorian mansion. Dance away to vintage tunes sung by Jessica Louisa at the Afternoon Tea Dance on Salomons Estate. You can enjoy tea, coffee and cakes, and beginners and experienced dancers alike are welcome, so there is no need to bring a partner. Tickets cost £14.50 per person and can be booked by calling 01892 515152. For more information, see salomons-estate.com The Jones Boys return to Tonbridge Folk Club with a squeeze-box and strings for a night of eclectic folk. In true traditional fashion, a hat collection is taken instead of tickets, with a suggested contribution of £7. The night will
Life&Times
53
J Locke’s short story. This humorous tale, directed by Stuart McCreadie, of two spinsters regaining their verve thanks to romance will make you hopeful for the sense of humanity in even the most chaste of lives. Tickets cost just £11 per person (Sunday £10). The play begins at 8pm every day except Sunday, when it is on at 3pm. To book your tickets, call 01732 363849 or visit oasttheatre.com
be held at The Flying Dutchman in Tonbridge. Musicians will be encouraged to join in, so bring your acoustic guitar. All are welcome, no membership required. For more information, go to tonbridgefolkclub.org TUESDAY The Tunbridge Wells Odeon will be screening a live broadcast from Royal Opera House: The Queen of Spades by Tchaikovsky. The romantic composer’s classic opera will be sung in Russian with English subtitles. Tickets cost £25.95 per adult and can be purchased online at odeon.co.uk
54
Life&Times
Going Out
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE
THE BEDFORD PUB
The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7, Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Summer Mooney, KAY, Paul Crisp Friday Soul Kitchen Saturday Private Party Sunday Rob Smyth, Joe Ackerley, Charlie Rivers, Steve Hewitt
2 High Street Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Friday The Badflys
THE FORUM
live music With Paul Dunton
T
HE FORUM host their popular Stable showcase tonight [Wednesday] with live sets from Amber Titchener, Beyond The Vinyl, Pete Metcalfe and Ukelear Fallout. Also tonight, local singersongwriter and the front man of upand-coming local band Suncharmer, Paul Crisp, headlines The Grey Lady with great support from KAY and Summer Mooney. Looking ahead to the weekend, on Friday night, I highly recommend The Badflys at The Bedford Pub, while fans of George Michael can enjoy the renowned tribute
The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… paulduntonandguests.com
show Faith at The Assembly Hall. On Saturday night, the excellent Disco Odyssey return to The Beau Nash Tavern, Skinnyman headlines at The Forum and The David Bowie Experience will be at The Assembly Hall [see the feature on page 50]. Local singer/songwriters Rob Smyth, Joe Ackerley, Charlie Rivers and Steve Hewitt are all performing at The Grey Lady this Sunday night. On Monday, The Jones Boys are at The Tonbridge Folk Club, and on Tuesday evening, Blues with Bottle Presents: Bagge & Armer at The Toad Rock Retreat in Rusthall.
Event information at twforum.co.uk Wednesday The Stable: Amber Titchener, Beyond The Vinyl, Pete Metcalfe, Ukelear Fallout Saturday Skinnyman Tuesday Cancer Bats, Bleed From Within, Underside
THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Crescent Road Event information at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Friday Faith (George Michael Tribute) Saturday Bowie Experience Sunday The Chicago Blues Brothers
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Disco Odyssey Sunday Open Mic Night
Stephen Hewitt
TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB The Flying Dutchman, Hildenborough Hat collection with a suggested contribution of £7 (£5 concessions) Music from 8pm, all welcome More information at tonbridgefolkclub.org Monday The Jones Boys
Joe Ackerley
THE TOAD ROCK RETREAT Rusthall Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm Tuesday Blues with Bottle Presents: Bagge & Armer
Paul Crisp
Ukelear Fallout
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
55
Life&Times
food
56
Food & Drink FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
The Spotted Dog really It’s the perfect country pub – with an exciting new menu. The only problem is you may want to stay there forever, writes Andy Tong
I
F THERE’S one thing we can be sure of in these uncertain times, it’s that you can’t beat a great country pub with a roaring fire on a wild and windy night. It’s a place of refuge, of warmth, even sanctuary. It feels just right, the beer’s great – throw in the fact that the food is superb and
you’re getting pretty close to heaven. So let me usher you through the door of The Spotted Dog, sitting atop the village of Penshurst. Mind your head. You could be stepping back in time, 50 years, 100, take your pick – the place is 500 years old. A fair few people have been this way before. The first thing you notice as you
RAISE THE BAR Nigel and Louise Hunt offer a warm welcome
pass through the unusual glazed hallway is an astonishing open fireplace. It’s the best I’ve ever seen in a pub. There is a fine, massive back plate as well as a variety of ovens and ironwork. Huge logs are piled up. Later, the fire will become quite mesmerising. There is a warm welcome awaiting
‘It’s exciting to have a new input of ideas. We are creating top dishes using fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. We want to offer good, traditional country pub food’ WINTER WARMER Beetroot toast with goat’s cheese bonbons; (right) pan-seared sea bass with pesto
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
you when you reach the bar, too. Nigel and Louise, who took over the Dog in 2014, have brought with them a charming family atmosphere, creating a firm foundation to a wellknown pub that had been through some fallow years before their arrival. Three daughters are often helping out, and there is a genuinely happy, huggy feel to the place. On top of all this history, they have been freshening up their menu. Louise, who cooks up a storm in the kitchen herself, says: “It’s exciting to have a new input of ideas. We are creating top dishes using fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. “We want to offer good, traditional country pub food, but we will also be offering evenings dedicated to food from around the world, Indian, Chinese, Mexican, all different sorts.” We settle in cosily near the fire with frothy pints of real ale. I have gone for the Harvey’s, Sussex best bitter at its finest, a local favourite with its chestnut-coloured bittersweet maltiness. My guest
chooses Larkins Traditional, a bitter from just up the road in Chiddingstone. It’s only 3.4 per cent, which has made it an ideal choice for the pumps of many country pubs in the area with a reputation for dining. It’s light and breezy but with a full flavour and a pleasing hoppiness. To start, I have opted for the salt and pepper battered squid with sweet chilli sauce. The beer has added an edge to my appetite and I can’t wait to dive in. The seasoning is delicately poised and nicely balanced; the coating succeeds in being crispy and squelchy at the same time. The sauce has a soft, smoky burn to start, followed by a burst of flavour. It’s a favourite, and this one is a
sensational winter warmer. My guest has gone for the pigeon breast with pear. The slices of meat are pleasantly crunchy around the edge and the fruit complements the bird perfectly. Again there is a neat, smoky tinge. Perhaps the fire is getting to us. By now the place is filling up with locals and landlord Nigel is holding forth at the bar. “I must have caught 40 whiting on Southwold Pier,” he proclaims. “They were big ones, but it’s poor man’s cod. You can throw them on the barbie, but who has a barbie this time of year?” For the main course I have chosen venison stew with dumplings. I find it hard to resist
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Food & Drink
Life&Times
57
hits the spot
drink
a dumpling and I’m glad I didn’t. The deer is disarmingly tender and the sauce is deep, dark and rich. This is a seductive dish, and soon I feel rather like a dumpling myself, melting inexorably into the scenery just as the real thing succumbs and turns into crumbly loveliness. There’s a perky mashed potato with a delightful tang, though I’m not sure what’s in it, and lashings of little leeks. It’s a dish that has every last part of your mouth reverberating. This is feelgood food at its finest – and of course it goes so well with the real ale. It’s heads down all the way to the end of the plate, and it’s only when you finally put your knife and fork down that you realise how much you’ve eaten. My guest has gone for the steak and stilton pie, which is something of a speciality. It comes as
a chunky slice of a bigger offering rather than in a little bowl of its own. It’s what pies are supposed to be. And it’s a genuinely remarkable one, too. An intense combination – that doesn’t do it justice, and there’s a moment when you think it might be too much… then you just keep going – it’s incredibly moreish. My guest is almost fighting me off with his fork. Next time I’ll have that, I think. For pudding I have the apple and winterberry crumble – blackberries on the day – and
it’s probably a dish for two, but I am not defeated. It’s another treat, the exceedlingly crumbly topping is blended with nuts and it cascades decadently into the fruit, which tastes as fresh as if it’s just been brought in from the lanes outside. My guest dives into the salted caramel brownie with vanilla ice cream. It has just the right combination of slightly crusty exterior and melting interior. By this time you can hear gossip from at least three villages wending its way from the bar. The fire is soporific now, the beer has been flowing freely, and the only problem is that, with the rain clattering against the windows, you just want to have a nightcap and then retire to bed. Nigel and Lou are kind and generous hosts, but there are limits. It should be said that if you go to The Spotted
Dog on a bright sunny day, there is an extra bonus awaiting you. This pub is renowned for its view, looking out over the valley and the village. There’s a river running through it, and it’s not called the Eden for nothing. On a balmy summer night there is no better way to observe the dying of the light. And this pub has so much more to offer. The family are always devising ways to entice you back: I can testify that Sunday’s roast beef is superb; there are renowned curries on Monday nights; then you’ve got live music, cakes in the afternoon, golf and dining combinations, interesting gin offerings, Test rugby on TV, the list goes on… It’s a place that works so hard to serve its community – and one that succeeds with effortless ease. The Spotted Dog is everything that a great country pub should be – and the food is stunning. So many folk have been this way before, and there will be many more. The Spotted Dog • Smarts Hill, Penshurst, Tonbridge TN11 8EG • Tel: 01892 870253 • Web: spotteddogpub.com
‘Ginuary’ is just the tonic I
F YOU can’t get thrilled by Veganuary or Dry January, then the ideal tonic is surely Ginuary instead? According to a report from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, UK sales of gin over the past year leapt by 53 per cent from £1.26billion to £1.93billion. Time, then, for Times’ Drinks Editor James Viner to select a few of his favourite gins…
1. MUST-TRY INEXPENSIVE BUT FLAVOURSOME SUPERMARKET GIN
Topaz Blue Premium London Dry Gin, England (£13.99, Aldi) It’s hard to beat this bargain supermarket gin, which is made with ten botanicals and is beautifully refreshing, spicy, citrus fruit-driven and delicious. Top value for the quality and very easy to see why it’s a favourite with Aldi customers. One to keep on standby in the fridge. Alc 40%
2. MULTIFACETED, DELECTABLE PREMIUM COASTAL SOUTH DEVON GIN
Salcombe Start Point Gin, England (£36.50-£40, Whisky Exchange/ Master of Malt/Rude Wines) Salcombe Start Point gin is made using 13 botanicals distilled in a beautiful 450l Holstein copper still with English wheat spirit and Dartmoor spring water. This awardwinning, full-flavoured, smooth and
satisfyingly complex Devon gin makes a sensational G&T and Martini (a twist of red grapefruit peel please!) It’s seriously stylish and both its provenance and label are sure to appeal to nautical lovers. Delicious! Alc 44%
1
2
3
3. EXCEPTIONAL SUPER PREMIUM GIN FOR DRY MARTINI & G&T AFICIONADOS
Berry’s No 3 London Dry Gin (£32.99-£36, Master of Malt/ Whisky Exchange/Waitrose/ Berry Bros) Made with just six botanicals, this modern classic bursts with powerful and amazing juniper and gentle floral notes, and the flavours just go on forever. Now head to the fabled Dukes Bar off St James’s Street in London, very near Berry Bros & Rudd (whose flagship shop at No 3 gives the gin its name) to have a revelation imbibing one of London’s elite Dry Martinis made with this exceptional spirit. Dukes is also supposedly the location where Ian Fleming developed some of his most memorable Bond characters. Splash out, worth it — both the gin and the bar. Alc 46% Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
59
Life&Times
travel
60
Travel
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
Northern lights and outback nights –
Ten tempting world travel ideas
Brighten the New Year by broadening your horizons with this list of alluring destinations
T
HE evenings are still dark, the Christmas lights have gone out and the summer sun seems so far away. But Baldwins Travel have ten suggestions to remedy the post-holiday blues. Their minds have turned to what the New Year will bring, the adventures we can take and where in the world we really must see next. It’s time to tick off somewhere on your bucket list.
DAZZLING Seeing the winter’s Northern Lights aboard the Hurtigruten
1
GET ABOUT AS FAR AWAY AS POSSIBLE WITH A TRIP TO AUSTRALIA TO ENJOY THE SUNSET AT ULURU
Get the most out of Australia by combining the icons of Sydney, the fiery red sands of the outback, and the spectacular colours of the Great Barrier Reef. Visit one of Australia’s most famous natural icons, Uluru, and explore the stunning, rugged surroundings while learning more about Aboriginal culture. For an experience like no other, witness the sunset over the striking backdrop of Uluru as you enjoy a glass of champagne before dining under the star-studded outback sky. Recommended: The Sydney, Rock & Reef 17-day tour with Austravel, departing May 2019. From £3,849 pp.
2
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE MAJESTIC SCENERY OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES ON THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
SPECTACULAR Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies
Create a lifetime of incredible memories by travelling through the unforgettable Canadian Rockies. Take an Ice Explorer ride on the Columbia Icefield in Alberta, travel across British Columbia on the Rocky Mountaineer train, and enjoy ferry crossings to and from Victoria on Vancouver Island. These are just a few of the many highlights on this memorable Western Canada by Rail tour. You’ll overnight in Calgary, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Kamloops, Vancouver, and Victoria. Along the way, witness spectacular scenery and explore western Canada’s most famous cities. Recommended: The Cosmos ten-day Western Canada by Rail tour, departing on May 28, 2019. Prices from £2,694 pp.
3
TRAVEL TO VENICE ON THE GLORIOUS ORIENT EXPRESS
Experience a trip through Europe aboard the legendary Simplon-Orient-Express before arriving in the romantic city of Venice. The Art Deco carriages have been restored to their former glory. The Bar Car and stylish restaurant cars, with food prepared by the Executive Head Chef and on-board service, create the perfect setting. Not only is your destination unforgettable – but so is the journey and ambience of such a remarkable train. Recommended: A tour with Citalia departing for four nights on the April 10, 2019, which includes a complimentary upgrade to a Cabin Suite, Private Resort Transfer and an exclusive free half-day Venice Islands Tour for Baldwins Travel customers booking by the January 31, 2019. Prices from £2,749 pp.
4
GO IN SEARCH OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Travelling in Norway during the winter months gives you the opportunity to see one of nature’s best shows. The route that the ship Hurtigruten sails in northern Norway is directly beneath the Auroral Zone, giving you front-of-house seats to see the Northern Lights. Wrap up warm and stare at the stars, or wait in the warm lounges or your comfortable cabin until the lights are announced. And if that wasn’t enough, Baldwins can also offer you their Northern Lights Promise: If the Northern Lights fail to make an appearance on your 12-day Hurtigruten voyage, they will give you another voyage free! Recommended: The 12-day, flight inclusive, Classic Round Voyage with Hurtigruten between January and March 2019 or October 2019 and March 2020. Prices from £1,289 pp.
5
BE AMAZED BY THE SHEER SIZE OF THE TERRACOTTA ARMY AND THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA
China is a land of many wonders – ancient and modern, natural and man-made. Journey through China’s most iconic sights from the magnificent Great Wall to the mighty Yangtze River. Discover the imperial treasures of bustling Beijing and then relax at leisure on a four-night Yangtze River Cruise admiring the majestic scenery. Become accustomed to a more traditional way of life in the Yangshuo countryside, and then turn up the heat in vibrant Shanghai. Recommended: The Wendy Wu 16-day Wonders of China tour by Wendy Wu tours, which has numerous departures throughout 2019. Prices from £3,190 pp.
6
HIKE THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
Head to Peru and experience one of the most famous treks in South America, rated by many as one of the top five treks in the world. The 26-mile Inca Trek combines beautiful mountain scenery, lush cloud forest and fascinating Inca ruins and tunnels. The crowning glory of the Inca Trail is arriving at Machu Picchu for sunrise at the Sun Gate – a fantastic experience totally rewarding of your efforts. Recommended: Latin Routes’ Highlights of the Inca Trail three-night tour as part of a package which includes a further seven nights in Peru. Prices from £2,459 pp.
7
CRUISE ON A PADDLE STEAMER DOWN THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Experience the laid-back world of Mark Twain’s riverside America. Travelling by steamboat offers a wonderful new perspective from which to view the mighty Mississippi and its riverside wildlife. Join America’s only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboat – the American Queen – to sail from Memphis to New Orleans. Combine the cruise with stays in the music meccas of Nashville and Memphis, and finish up with a few days in the seductive southern city of New Orleans. Each Titan holiday starts and ends at your front door, thanks to their award-
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
INTRIGUING Take a trip back in time in evocative Cuba
Travel
in the world. Given the exhilarating pace of life in its colourful and vibrant cities and its exquisite temples and superb scenery, few visitors ever leave disappointed. Explore the iconic sights of India’s famed Golden Triangle, from the magnificent forts of Amber and Agra to the marble magnificence of the Taj Mahal, and experience one of India’s most beautiful national parks – Ranthambore. Recommended: Cox and Kings’ Golden Triangle & Ranthambore ten-day tour. Selected departure dates from January to March 2019. Call Baldwins Travel for the latest prices.
10
SPOT THE BIG FIVE ON SAFARI
Imagine hearing the roar of a lion in the distance while you’re tucked up in bed, or seeing an elephant wander through camp as you have your morning cup of tea. Pick from Kuoni’s best safari camps and choose from a range of small group safaris to give you the very best experience in the wild. Go in search of the Big Five animals – the Lion, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, Leopard and Rhino – in Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia and Botswana, but don’t overlook the smaller and taller species
winning VIP door-to-door travel service. Titan’s Price Promise also guarantees early bookers the best price possible; if the price of the tour is reduced later down the line, you will be refunded the difference – in cash – so you’ll never lose out. Recommended: The 16-day Journey on the Mighty Mississippi tour with Titan departing December 4, 2019. Prices from £4,399 pp.
8
CRUISE THE STREETS OF HAVANA, CUBA, IN A CLASSIC CAR
On top of the fun of seeing and maybe driving classic cars there’s luxury in the shape of a small but spacious, modern Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship that exceeds even the loftiest of expectations. Luxury is also guests having the widest selection of free, unlimited and expertly
crafted Cuban shore excursions in compliance with the regulations of the Office of Foreign Assets Control [OFAC]. In Havana, walk in the steps of author Ernest Hemingway, learn about the city’s Baroque, neoclassical and Renaissance architecture, or venture into Cienfuegos, visiting Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills) and Trinidad, both deemed World Heritage sites for their well-preserved, Colonial-era architecture. Recommended: The Cuban Paradise seven-night Cruise on board Regent Seven Seas Mariner, departing October 5, 2019. Prices from £4,269 pp.
9
TIME FOR SOME QUIET REFLECTION AS YOU WATCH THE SUN RISE OVER THE TAJ MAHAL
India makes a strong claim to be the most exciting and rewarding travel destination
ADVENTUROUS See red in all the right ways in the Australian outback
Life&Times
61
and the landscapes you’ll discover along the way. From drinks under the stars while gathered round a crackling fire to soaking in your luxury tent’s private hot tub while watching giraffes wander across the plains, a safari holiday is simply stunning. Start planning now. Recommended: the nine-night Classic Tanzania Safari with Kuoni departing in April 2019. Prices from £3,938 pp. HOW: Contact Baldwins Travel and speak to one of their experienced travel consultants about how to tailor the above tours and cruises to your exact requirements. They can take your preferred dates, budget and personal preferences and come up with a holiday itinerary perfect for you. Call 01892 511999 for more information and Quote ‘TOTW’, so we know how you have been inspired, or find your local branch by visiting baldwinstravel.co.uk All prices and availability of the above holidays are subject to change at any time and were correct at the time of writing. Dates, flights, accommodation, transfers, excursions and many other factors can cause prices to fluctuate, so please share your budget with Baldwins so they can try and find the most appropriate holiday for you. Prices are based on two people sharing. The terms and conditions of the tour operator or cruise lines applies. Special offers may have additional terms and conditions. Please ask for details.
62
Life&Times
FORgood EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Look good, feel
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
The Shape of things to come The new year is the perfect time to get yourself into shape. These experts show you how‌
Consider a New You in the New Year with Bella Vou
THIS New Year why not consider cosmetic surgery as both a reward and a catalyst to bring back that youthful appearance, or enhance features you once thought were lost in years past? By improving your appearance through body contouring or facial rejuvenation procedures, you are taking a positive step towards a healthy body image and kick-starting a powerful motivational force. Many women and men who have had cosmetic surgery find that they are more motivated to engage in a healthier lifestyle as a result of their increased self-confidence. At Bella Vou Pantiles Clinic we can show you a variety of self-improvement procedures to accentuate your natural beauty and revitalise your appearance. Call us for a complimentary consultation during January on 01892 257357 Bella Vou Market House, 45-47 The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TE hello@bellavou.co.uk www.bellavou.co.uk
Spa day dreams AFTER the excesses of the festive period, January is the perfect time to plan your goals and bring your body and mind back into balance for the year ahead. Set in beautiful Victorian gardens with a heated swimming pool, sauna and spa, Knowle Grange provides the perfect tranquil environment. The fantastic fitness team will help you to achieve your fitness and weight objectives and you can rejuvenate with one of the many massage or holistic spa treatments provided by their experienced therapists.
MOVE freely into the new year THE start of a new year is the best time to try something new, so how about Aerial Yoga?! This whole body workout helps you to move more freely and effortlessly, using an aerial silk, while counteracting gravity. By being suspended in the air, tightness and pressure are released from both bones and muscles, enabling you to focus on tightening your core and improving your upper body strength. As well as the physical benefits Aerial Yoga also clears the mind and relieves stress due to the meditative state you’re in! Take your first step in improving your health in 2019 and contact Bora Studio on 07402 666847 www.borastudio.co.uk Bora Studio 86 Mount Pleasant Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1RT
For more information, membership or to book a treatment, call 01892 750550 or email enquiriesknowle@gmail.com Knowle Grange Health Spa, Wadhurst Road, Frant, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9EJ
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.ukLook
good, feel good
Life&Times
63
Fitness Superstore FITNESS Superstore is the UK’s largest supplier of specialist fitness equipment, delivering the very best products at competitive prices both online and instore. With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, our reputation as a trusted supplier allows us to offer a practically unrivalled product range from leading global fitness brands. With a genuine interest in fitness, many of Fitness Superstore’s staff come from a sporting or personal training background and are able to give unbiased, professional advice. Feel free to try any product on display in-store before you buy, and take advantage of unbeatable pricing and finance options too. With 10 nationwide stores - including a 4000sqft showroom in the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells – Fitness Superstore is the most accessible fitness retailer in the UK, offering an unbeatable shopping experience to support you and your training. For more information please contact us on 01892 883747 Fitness Superstore, 30-34 Grosvenor Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2AP
énergie fitness for the new year Horder Healthcare DON’T let pain hold you back from achieving your goals in 2019. Make this the year that you finally address past injuries and painful niggles and achieve your fitness aspirations. At Horder Healthcare, we strive to help you lead a full and active life by providing specialist orthopaedic services from our centre of excellence, The Horder Centre in Crowborough. We offer fast access physiotherapy appointments with individually tailored treatment plans, which are affordably priced at just £50 for the initial consultation and £35 for follow up appointments. Musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions we treat: • Sports injuries • Back and neck pain • Shoulder, arm, wrist or hand problems • Hip, knee, ankle and foot problems • Arthritis • Post operative surgery • Postural problems • Muscle and joint pain For further details on physiotherapy and for informative articles on health and fitness please contact us on 01892 665577 St John’s Rd, Crowborough, Kent TN6 1XP www.horderhealthcare.co.uk
IF you’re looking to get back into shape after Christmas and want to get into a routine to make some real differences in how you look and feel throughout 2019, you need to find a gym where you will feel comfortable. Renowned for their warm welcome and unintimidating atmosphere, the newly refurbished énergie Fitness include a free “KICKSTART” to help you get off on the right footing plus loads of classes, from BodyPump, Spin and Boxercise through to Yoga and Pilates, at no extra cost. From only £21.99 a month (with free parking too!), it is great value for a
bright, clean gym with hot showers and extras available like Personal Trainers, sunbed, massage, physiotherapy and more. You can try before you buy too, by downloading a free Guest Pass from the website – at the moment, doing this will also put you in the draw to win a year’s free membership! For more information please contact us on 01892 804007 5, Enterprise Centre, N Farm Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3DR
RTWSKIN ANOTHER year is upon us, and the start of January means the start of many New Year’s resolutions. At this time of year, our non-invasive Body Treatments are one of our most popular for this reason and what’s even better, we are offering 30% off throughout January! Whatever body goal you are looking to achieve in 2019, our range of treatments will leave you feeling feel fabulous and refreshed from that post-Christmas bloat! For further details on physiotherapy and for informative articles on health and fitness please contact us on 01892 665577 St John’s Rd, Crowborough, Kent TN6 1XP www.horderhealthcare.co.uk
66
Life&Times
Motoring
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Motoring News
This week… Lambo evolution n Intelligent driving n Volvo safety watch n
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
In-car Volvo cameras will monitor drivers
Nissan safety tech will help motorists see round corners
FULL THROTTLE AHEAD The Evo has improved power
Lamborghini showcases its new Huracán supercar – the Evo… THE Huracán Evo gets a bold new styling package which takes cues from Lamborghini’s flagship Performante model as well as more power. It sees a new diffuser, tail lights and a high-exit exhaust all added to the car, giving it a far more aggressive appearance. Even the underside has been extensively styled to improve aerodynamic efficiency. These updates are thought to apply to the all-wheel-drive LP610-4 Coupé and Spyder models, though it’s expected that rear-wheel-drive LP580-2 models will receive the facelift, too. The performance boost means power is now up to 631bhp – an increase of just under 30bhp – and it’ll hit 60mph in just 2.7 seconds.
Drive comes via a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine, and Lamborghini claims that the Huracán Evo will hit over 200mph flat out. The car features rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring for enhanced cornering abilities, while Enhanced Lamborghini Dynamic Steering [LDS] gives greater responsiveness in the bends. This means the Evo has improved low-speed agility as well as excellent high-speed stability. Inside, it benefits from an 8.4-inch colour touchscreen, which features multi-finger gesture control and Apple CarPlay, as well as traditional functions. Lamborghini quotes the UK price as £165,256, excluding tax.
NISSAN has developed technology that it says will help drivers see hidden or obscured obstacles. Designed to combine the digital universe with the physical one, ‘Invisible-to-Visible’ (or I2V) merges data from 360-degree sensors with data from the cloud, enabling the car to show drivers their surroundings. The safety feature points out hazards and even predicts what’s coming next, showing what might be behind a building or around a bend. Project engineer Tetsuro Ueda said: “Simply put, the ‘metaverse’ is the virtual universe. Sensor data, cloud data and artificial intelligence live in the digital world and their
communication language is binary. However, humans can’t understand what’s being communicated just by looking at the binary data. I2V merges the digital world and the real world to a new level of connectivity.” Other data can be presented to the driver via various methods. Nissan’s examples include a floating avatar that acts as navigator, as well as superimposed road instructions and voice warnings. The system can even display animated local guides to show drivers around unfamiliar cities and call on cloud data to figure out when and where a parking space might become available.
FIND YOUR WAY ROUND WITH EASE Artificial intelligence has local data mapped
VOLVO could soon offer a set of driver-facing cameras to monitor driver behaviour and even predict health issues before they happen. The system has been in development since 2017 as part of Volvo’s research into autonomous cars – part of plans to have a fully self-driving vehicle on the roads by 2021. Though many drivers may worry about the threat of constant surveillance, Volvo says the cameras will be an optional extra. They will be capable of facial recognition, identifying who’s driving the car and setting items such as the seating position, climate control and infotainment to their individual requirements. Volvo’s Chief Digital Officer, Atif Rafiq, told CAR magazine: “They can determine a driver’s glucose levels by looking at their pupils, so could call a loved one or hospital if it detected a health problem. Cars will understand your state and de-stress you on your way back from work. Cameras can be used for video conferencing and ID purposes, too.” Footage would be anonymous and private and wouldn’t be shared for any reason. The Swedish brand is famously fastidious about safety, pledging that by 2020 nobody would be killed while driving a new Volvo. It’s one of the leaders in autonomous tech, too, with the Level 2 Pilot Assist available on most of its vehicles.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Motoring
Life&Times
67
68
Life&Times
Recruitment
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
WITH THE
FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY
NIGHT PORTER SALOMONS ESTATE – TUNBRIDGE WELLS 45hrs per week up to £20K pa doe The Front of House department at Salomons Estate is now recruiting for a reliable and enthusiastic Night Porter to join our successful team. As the Night Porter you will be assisting the team in achieving the estates goals and providing guests with superior service. Salomons Estate, part of the Markerstudy Leisure Group, is situated just two miles outside of Royal Tunbridge Wells, and is a stunning Victorian mansion build in 1829, set in 36 acres of rolling gardens. Comprising of the main country house and a number of outbuildings, we have 47 well-appointed bedrooms, 14 flexible event and meeting spaces, offices which house 18 different local companies and an impressive Victorian theatre which can seat over 300 guests. As a Night Porter you are responsible for managing the reception department during the night and take on all reception duties. To attend to any guests needs efficiently and effectively as needed to deliver an excellent Guest experience, and to ensure all buildings are secure at night. A Night Porter is always working on behalf of our Guests and working with other Team Members. To successfully fill this role, you must have a proactive approach to work and a positive attitude which reflects the ability to work on one’s own initiative. You must have excellent verbal communication in the English language, the ability to work methodically and to an agreed time frame. Key Responsibilities: To manage reception during the evening hours • Check in late arrivals and check out early departures in line with hotel procedures • To answer any calls/emails and to take effective messages • Ensure set up of the hotel for the day’s next business including function and conferencing rooms. • To ensure all access to the hotel is secure and perform any related security jobs as required overnight • Report any faulty equipment to the relevant persons • Perform all pre & post night audit duties • Liaise with the housekeeping department to see what areas need cleaning during the shift • To take part in scheduled training and to proactively take part in relevant hotel meetings at • To have extensive knowledge of all hotel facilities • Identifying and removing potential H&S hazards To apply please email your CV and covering letter to eileensweeney@markerstudy.com Closing date for applications: 1st February 2019
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
CODEWORD 4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
J
K
A B C D E F GH I J K L MNO P QR S T U VWX Y Z 23
24
5 23
10
21
14 24
8
K
3
7
15
19
19
19 3
4
15
15
4
5 4
7
19
22
19 26
16
1 4
4 21
24
19
23
4
23
19
20
7
23
23
5
21
15
20
5
13
2 10
14
25
4
4 2
21
24
5
21 10
7
7
24
24
25
20
22
24
24
22
2
8
21
21
18
2
21
2
4
15
22
24 24
20
9 9
13 23
8
K
24 6
22
21
21
16
7
8
4
10
K
11
24
3
11 14
5
22
8 17
J
K
21
2 8
23
8 4
21 12 3
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.
6 1
21 3
5
4 1 6 5 8 7
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
7 7
3
9 1 8 9 4
21
Codeword:
9 2 1 3 7
3 2 8 6 9
5 1
K
1
1
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
3
DIFFICULTY RATING:★★★✩
2
9
5
9
5 2
7
1
5 8 5 2
6 1
2
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
1
69
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
R A B B I E M E D A A C R EW O U N I P P S H O V E R N M A R I E N S T I M E
I D I E L E D I S N S K L E T I T F E A S L E Q U X
J GO U T S T Y E N T A E D A I P T
A P U Z B L H I C T I T B Y
A N A E K E R D N C E S S S I U N T Y E O I T A N
Sudoku:
6 5 8 9 2 3 1 4 7
2 7 4 5 1 8 6 9 3
3 9 1 7 6 4 5 2 8
8 6 9 2 4 7 3 1 5
5 2 3 1 8 9 4 7 6
1 4 7 6 3 5 2 8 9
4 3 5 8 7 2 9 6 1
2 4 3 8 6 7 9 1 5
6 8 7 1 3 5 2 9 4
9 7 1 6 4 2 8 5 3
9 8 6 4 5 1 7 3 2
7 1 2 3 9 6 8 5 4
Jigsaw Sudoku:
8 6 9 4 7 3 5 2 1
5 1 2 3 8 6 7 4 9
7 5 4 9 2 1 6 3 8
3 9 5 2 1 8 4 7 6
1 2 6 5 9 4 3 8 7
4 3 8 7 5 9 1 6 2
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
70
Life&Times
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Please send sports stories to: newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk
Sport
Pilbeam returns to haunt old team and end long run
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
UP AND AWAY Another Wells attack is cleared
gave Wells ‘keeper Callum Hampson no chance. Two minutes after the break Jason Thompson restored the Wells lead, and Jake Beecroft made it three after 73 minutes. Chatham pulled a goal back through Ben Wilson four minutes later, after which Wells’ Ola Williams was sent off for a second bookable offence. Then former Culverden favourite Jon Pilbeam broke the hearts of his former fans when he twice – the second goal coming in injury time – to win the match for Chatham. Tunbridge Wells now play St Peters of Guernsey in the Kent Senior Trophy quarter-final at the Culverden on Saturday [January 19, kick-off 2pm].
By Victor Bethell FOOTBALL: TUNBRIDGE WELLS’ outstanding run of 11 games unbeaten finally came to an end in a bruising encounter at Culverden in front of a huge crowd of more than 500. It was the second time in consecutive games that the Wells conceded two late goals in the Southern Counties East League Premier Division. Jamie Humphris opened the scoring for them from the penalty spot after 32 minutes, blasting his kick past Chatham goalkeeper Dan Ellis. The visitors equalised on the stroke of half-time with a rebound from a shot by Matt Bodkin which
PHOTO: Victor Bethell
Tunbridge Wells 3 Chatham Town 4
Angels return to winning ways after McKenzie makes his mark
LAUNCH PAD The Angels celebrate Alex Read’s opening goal
Tonbridge Angels 3 Kingstonian 2
PHOTO: David Couldridge
By Jim Rowe FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS upset the form book to end a run of six games without a win. They beat a Kingstonian side who had not lost in the Bostik League Premier since December 1 – the last time the Angels had won. The home side took the lead after 10 minutes when new signing Chinedu McKenzie fed the ball to his fellow striker Alex Read, who flicked it past Kingstonian goalkeeper Rob Tolfrey. The Angels doubled their advantage on 27 minutes when Reid turned provider with a pass to Joe Turner, whose shot from the edge of the area nestled in the corner of the net. Kingstonian responded by scoring twice, equalising on the stroke of half-time. Tonbridge were caught out by a short corner routine with Dean Inman producing the header, and then with hardly time to draw breath Shaun McAuley scored again. The second half saw the Angels create more
chances with the pairing of Read and McKenzie posing plenty of problems. The winner came in the 71st minute when a free kick was fumbled by Tolfrey and McKenzie forced the ball over the line from close range. Tonbridge now travel to Bishop’s Stortford on Saturday [January 19, kick-off 3pm].
FAREWELL TO THE ‘WIZARD’ Tommy Whitnell, the midfielder known as the ‘Wizard’, has been released by the Angels. One of Steve McKimm’s first signings in 2014, he made 177 appearances and scored 17 goals. McKimm said: “This is one of the most difficult jobs a manager has to to do, letting go a loyal and dedicated member of the team. “Recent signings coming in have meant we have had to manage the budget accordingly. “Tommy has always shown me the utmost respect in all my dealings with him and will certainly be missed in the dressing room.”
Red card for Butler leaves Rusthall chasing shadows Rusthall 0 Sheppey United 2 FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL remain bottom of the Southern Counties East League Premier Division despite a good performance against an experienced Sheppey side. Rusthall gave debuts to three new signings, Ryan Styles, Moses Sunday and Nodirbek Bobonurovov going straight into the first team to give the Rustics a very youthful look. The first half was relatively even but just before half-time the home side conceded a penalty when Tarik Ibrahim had his heels clipped by the otherwise excellent Styles. The league’s top scorer Dan Bradshaw stepped up to score an unstoppable spot-kick to give the visitors the lead going into the interval. Rusthall’s chances of getting back into the contest were dealt a blow when the captain Paul Butler was given a straight red card for what the referee decided was a dangerous tackle. That allowed Sheppey to intensify their attacks and the visitors extended their lead with a goal from Rob Denness in injury time. Rusthall’s next match is away to Fisher on Saturday, January 26 [kick-off 3pm].
PHOTO: Joe Croker
By Joe Croker
ON THE RUN Charlie Clover chases the ball down
FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL’S Under-10s finished as runners-up in two junior tournaments inside a week hosted by professional clubs. The team, coached by Scott Dean, competed in the Eldon Celtic Junior Winter Tournament at Reading FC’s training dome, narrowly losing the final against Caversham 1-0. They also reached the final of the Millwall Junior
Tournament at the Den on January 3, recording their only loss of the tournament 4-3 against Ballers Academy after winning six and drawing one of their previous matches. The Under-10s squad is Oscar Pattenden, Oliver Dean, Chester Dean, Ashton Lucas, Jack Hodges, Leighton Gillam, Frankie Lawrence, George Wright, Finley Little and Teddy Killick.
Wednesday January 16 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wells fight back but fail to storm fortress of Westcliff By Roger Clarke RUGBY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS mounted a spirited comeback in the last 20 minutes against Westcliff but another defeat leaves them anxious to avoid slipping into the relegation places in the London and South-East Premier Division. The Southend side are sitting in third place and had only lost once at home this season, to league leaders Wimbledon, so it was always going to be a tough task for the visitors. Facing a stiff wind in the first half, Wells made a slow start, giving away three penalties in front of the posts in the first 14 minutes, fly-half Ben McKeith slotting two of them. The hosts applied pressure high up the pitch, and Wells had difficulty securing possession and were under intense pressure in the set scrum. Westcliff went further ahead when prop Will Weston popped the ball to Ross Merrick, who avoided several tackles to score in the left corner, McKeith impressively adding the points from the touchline.
Wells’ pack started to get to grips with Westcliff in the tight but some spirited runs failed to find any holes in the home defence. Smart midfield play by Westcliff on 28 minutes saw back row George Maloney go over from a physical drive. Then a dropped ball in a Wells attack on the home 22 saw a hack upfield with Chris Marsh winning the race and McKeith kicking the points for a 25-0 lead at half-time. With the wind at their backs after the interval, Wells were able to occupy a much higher field position. On 57 minutes the Wells pack drove over the line but were held up. However, from the ensuing scrum and breakdowns the ball was worked to Richard Webster, who scored the try to put Wells on the scoreboard. With 10 minutes left the hosts secured their bonus point when centre Rob Smith dummied his way over, McKeith rattling the posts and missing his kick. Wells then launched a wave of attacks and a flurry of penalties in the red zone finally saw a yellow card given to Merrick.
Life&Times
71
MIND THE GAP Mike Hathaway spies an opening
PHOTO: Bruce Elliott
Westcliff 30 Tunbridge Wells 10
Sport
The visitors persisted and eventually got in for a try in the left corner with Nick Doherty scoring their second try, though Frank Reynolds could not convert.
Wells now meet Guildford, one place below them in 10th with the same number of points, in a crucial game at home on Saturday [January 19, kick-off 2pm].
Galbraith-Lowe dazzles as TJs make amends before accelerating down the wing. The full-back was flummoxed as Galbraith-Lowe stepped left then right and scored, Robinson converting. Hawks huffed and puffed for the final 10 minutes but the TJ defence was rock solid and every attack was cut down with superb tackling. A final TJ scrum saw them awarded a free kick which the tired Charlie Edwards, having played a
Tonbridge Juddians 23 Henley 12 By Adam Hookway RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS returned to The Slade still smarting from a poor performance at London Irish and returned to form in style against second-placed Henley. TJs started brightly and dominated both ball and territory for the first 15 minutes, and Will Robinson opened the scoring with a penalty. Then Matas Jurevicius spun out of a last-ditch tackle to stretch and score after some excellent phased approach play by TJs, Robinson converting. An improved Henley turned down an easy penalty to go to the corner, and and they went
over from a bouncing ball on the right. Robinson added two more penalties to make it 16-5 at the break and restore some breathing space for the home side. In the second half the Hawks again refused an easy three points and went for a try. It took time but eventually the TJ defence succumbed. Toby May received the only yellow card of the game and Henley’s impressive outside centre wriggled through to score. But then the hosts restored their ascendancy with one of the tries of the season. The ball was worked right from a TJ scrum to find Murray Galbraith-Lowe on the right just inside his own half. He sat his opponent down and rounded him
PHOTO: Adam Hookway
REACHING OUT Matas Jurevicius stretches over to score
Try your hand at squash on Open Day SQUASH: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Squash Club is holding an Open Day on Saturday January 26, inviting prospective players of any age and ability to find out what the club has to offer. The opportunity would suit someone who is keen to try the sport for the first time, or perhaps if you are looking to get back on court after a break from the game. The day runs from 10am to 4pm, and there will be squash games running every 30 minutes. Club members – men, ladies and juniors – will
be on hand to play against the visitors, and qualified coaches will supervise and assist during on-court sessions. Rackets and goggles can be provided if required, but please bring your own non-marking court shoes and some comfortable clothing. The bar will be open and refreshments and snacks will be available. You are welcome to bring the whole family along. For more details visit twsrc.mycourts.co.uk/ 2019_open_day.asp
full 80 minutes this week, hoofed into the crowd. It was another fantastic game of rugby of the highest quality in National Two South and TJs closed in fifth place kept up the pressure on the teams above them. The Tonbridge side now travel to Old Albanians for the first time on Saturday [January 19, kick-off 2.30pm].