Wednesday August 21 | 2019
fo r
Times
All the news that matters
Local, National and International
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
T p u yo ag rn ur e to gu 19 id e to
Woman’s body found in police hunt for missing photographer CHURCH ROAD The wooded area where the body was discovered and [inset] Sabrina Goacher
By Richard Williams POLICE are today [Wednesday] waiting on the results of a post-mortem following the discovery of a body in woodland near to Tunbridge Wells town centre, understood to be that of a talented local photographer. Sabrina Goacher, 30, who lived in the town, had been missing since Sunday when she was last seen walking home along Dunstan Road, near to Grosvenor Bridge at the bottom of Camden Road, at around 6am. Worried family and friends contacted police after the front of house supervisor for West Kent and Ashford College, where she also worked as an events coordinator, failed to return home.
Ms Goacher, who police described as being 5ft 4ins tall and of slim build, was last seen wearing a yellow jacket and carrying a black handbag with pictures of witches on it.
‘Detectives are now working to establish the cause of her death ’ Kent Police Spokesman
On Monday night, officers were called to Tunbridge Wells at 8.47pm, after a woman’s body was discovered in a secluded wooded area off Church Road, between London Road and Mount Ephraim and next to the Common.
Church Road had been closed to all traffic since July for roadworks, and yesterday remained cordoned off as police and scenes of crime officers continued to examine the area where the body was found. Last night a police spokesman said officers were waiting for the results of a post-mortem and that ‘detectives are now working to establish the cause of her death’, which was being treated as ‘unexplained’. While officers have yet to formerly identify the body, police confirmed confirmed that Ms Goacher’s family have been informed of the discovery. How the body was found and by whom is not yet known. The talented young photographer
was a familiar face to many in the local music scene. She worked with a number of bands and was a regular at local festivals and music events. For the last 13 years she also worked part time at the popular Cassidy’s Sports Bar in Tunbridge Wells. The young woman was also a local events organiser, including for the Small Charities Coalition, and she also campaigned on behalf of the homeless. Lately she had been active in raising money for Samaritans, which she got involved with following the death of musician friend, David Saunders, a bass player with alternative rock band
Continued on page 2
2
NEWS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
this week… Talented young photographer Continued from page 1
RESULT! Schools buck national trend as students show they’re real class p5 VINE TIME Catch up with Radio 2’s Jeremy Vine at Hever Castle’s festival theatre p40
AMAIZING Get lost with the kids in six acres of maize at Penshurst Place this weekend p44
Sarah Tonin, who took his own life before Christmas. Chris Parris, lead singer in the band, who is meant to be opening Local & Live this weekend as a solo artist, is also said to be very close to the young photographer. Local & Live organiser, Paul Dunton, said that Sabrina was a familiar face. He told the Times last night: “She was very supportive of the music scene and was a very talented photographer.” Tunbridge Wells Pride, who held their annual LGBT celebration last weekend, also commented, saying: “We are truly saddened to hear about the death of Sabrina Goacher. Our love and sincere support go out to all her friends and family.” And Amy Carr, who worked with Sabrina at West Kent College said on Facebook: “I didn’t know her very well but she was lovely to work with for the time that we did at West Kent college. “Thoughts for those that loved and knew her. Really sad! Can’t believe it. RIP Sabrina.” Other staff and students at the college, where she had been ‘the first person you saw when you walked in’ for the last three years, were coming to terms with the tragic news last night. The talented young photographer studied at both West Kent College, gaining a National Diploma in Photography, and the University College for Creative Arts, where she achieved a BA in the same subject.
IMAGES: Photo of Sabrina Goacher issued by Kent Police and also pictures from her Facebook page She was not only a music photographer, but also recently visited Stonehenge for the summer solstice, posting images on her professional Facebook page, Sabrina G Photography. She was also involved in the Tonbridge Half Marathon as a volunteer organiser.
It is the second discovery of a body in woodland in Tunbridge Wells in recent months. Two weeks ago the Times reported on a Crowborough salesman, Colin Smithers, 38, who was found hanged in woodland near to Hungershall Park in June.
Administrators take over at West Kent FOOD FOCUS Successful food portrait artist Jason Wain tells how to take that perfect shot p46
CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER RICHARD WILLIAMS richardwilliams@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES GHak@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779650 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews
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 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
WEST KENT COLLEGE in Tonbridge has been placed in educational administration in order to protect the students from the financial problems that have engulfed the company that runs it. The Hadlow Group is being investigated by the Further Education Commissioner [FEC] over allegations of financial irregularities. The probe was launched following the resignation of principal Paul Hannan and his deputy Mark Lumsdon-Taylor earlier this year. Hadlow College, which is also run by the group, had already entered educational administration in May.
It was the first college in the country to do so after the FEC, Richard Atkins, visited it and found it had ‘completely run out of money’. The process is primarily designed to ensure that the provision of courses continues, with the interests of creditors coming second. Now West Kent has applied to do the same, and has been accepted, along with its sister site Ashford College. There are 343 staff and 2,626 students at the Brook Street site. It is seen as a positive move, while the future of the various strands of the Hadlow Group are resolved.
Mr Atkins has recommended that the group should be split up. He has suggested that the different colleges be run by other educational providers in the county. He said that West Kent and Hadlow College should be taken over by North Kent College. That would keep the two neighbours together, while he also calls for Ashford College to be handed over to East Kent College instead. The Education and Skills Funding Agency [ESFA] has said that applying for educational administration is the most effective way of achieving this complex transaction.
Blow for Poppy Appeal as it faces cut-back By Andy Tong THE annual Poppy Appeal in Tunbridge Wells is having to be scaled down because no volunteer can be found to organise the event. The Royal British Legion has warned it will have ‘a profound effect’ in Royal Tunbridge Wells, a town that has ‘proudly supported’ the Armed Forces community over the years. The Legion has been unable to recruit a new organiser for this year’s event following the retirement of the previous incumbent.
Support Through the appeal the charity is able to help improve the lives of former servicemen and servicewomen. This can include financial, emotional and social support More than £48,000 was raised in the borough in 2017 which made it a record-breaking Poppy Appeal for Tunbridge Wells. Despite appeals in local media including the Times, no volunteers have come forward, so many of the arrangements will be changing this year – and some will not happen. Duties include ordering stock, managing volunteers to assist with distribution and collection to schools and businesses, and organising counting and banking. John Cohen, who currently chairs the town’s branch, said: “Sadly without an organiser for the
THE APPEAL: (L-R) Gary Faulkner, Malcolm Blythman, MP Greg Clark and John Cohen town it will only be possible to operate reduced arrangements, which will mean a smaller Poppy Appeal presence.” Jane Ayers, Community Fundraiser for West Kent’s appeal, added: “It will undoubtedly have a profound effect on the people of Tunbridge Wells because they have proudly supported our Armed Forces community for many years. “It will also mean less support to help fund the life-changing work of the Legion, which is used to
ensure equal rights for Armed Forces personnel, to keep families together, to help individuals deal with the impact of life-changing injuries and experiences, to fund specialist dementia care and to get people back into work.” Royal Victoria Place will remain a key location for the appeal thanks to the efforts of the Legion’s former Tunbridge Wells chairman Gary Faulkner. For more information visit britishlegion.org.uk/ get-involved or contact Jayers@britishlegion.org.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
NEWS IN BRIEF
Three people robbed and threatened with wrench
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Local News
NEWS
3
venues until late Monday night. “Once again the festival is free and its ethos remains to showcase the leading original soloists and bands from the local area.” This is the 14th year of the festival that attracts crowds of up to 20,000. The weekend includes plenty of food choices from Indian, to Thai to vegan and everything in between and there are beer tents to quench the thirst. And if your choice of tipple is gin then The Pantiles is a must on Saturday and Sunday in between Local and Live events. The Gin and Jazz Festival will feature 60 different gins along with lots of rums and cocktails. “Great weather is forecast and it will be a carnival atmosphere so what better way to celebrate the close of summer,” said organiser Julian Leefe Griffths. To find out what’s happening and where, see the Local and Live guide that starts on page 19.
PARKLIFE Last year’s Local & Live stage at Calverley Grounds
THREE people were threatened with a wheel wrench and robbed near to the former Toys R Us store in Tunbridge Wells. Police say the robbery occurred on Thursday August 15 at around 9:40pm at the Longfield Retail Park when it is reported that two men in a Citroen, one brandishing the wheel wrench, got out and demanded phones, money and keys, before punching one victim in the face. One of the men is said to have earlier snatched a bank note from one of the victims after asking for change. Two local men, aged 19 and 20 were arrested on suspicion of robbery but later released pending further investigation.
Mayor’s charity appeal A CHARITY that has been providing Christmas presents to under-privileged children in Tunbridge Wells is seeking new premises. The Mayor’s Toy Appeal, which distributes more than a 1,000 toys and games to disadvantaged children and families over the Christmas period, needs somewhere to operate for its 30th year of appeal. Organiser Karen Collins said: “Our needs are for a space for the whole of November and December and half of January, with toilets and power and light.” Anybody that can help is being encouraged to contact the charity on 077480 74811 or by email: karen.collins@mayorstoyappeal.christmas
Photo deadline extended THE deadline for submitting photos for the Tonbridge Daily calendar has been extended until Friday [August 23]. The 12 competition winners will have their pictures included in next year’s calendar. This popular product sold more than 1,000 copies in 2018-19 and raised almost £1,800 for charities. Tonbridge Daily blogger Suzannah Niklas said: “We are searching for 12 monthly seasonal images and therefore need Tonbridge scenes in all seasons. “Photographs must be taken in Tonbridge and the more obvious the landmark location, the better.” She added that entries should be submitted at least 2Mb in size, in jpg format and landscape orientation, to: tonbridgedailycalendar@gmail.com
Local & Live kicks off weekend by showcasing town’s musical talent IT’S BANK Holiday weekend, the weather looks fine and Tunbridge Wells is set to end the summer on a high note. Thousands of people are expected to turn out for two major events – Local & Live along with Gin and Jazz on The Pantiles. The town’s biggest free music festival takes
place from Friday through to Monday across six sites: Calverley Grounds, The Forum, The Bedford, Cassidy’s, Royal Oak Pub and Spa Hotel. Oragniser Paul Dunton said: “Everything has come together to make for a great weekend. It all starts at 5.20pm in Calverley Grounds on the Friday and runs right through at the various
Brexit Party to challenge local MPs oppose Tunbridge Wells Conservative MP Greg Clark in the eventuality that a vote of no confidence is lost by the current PM, Boris NIGEL Farage’s Brexit Party has announced Johnson, forcing a general election. Prospective Parliamentary Candidates [PPC] to Mr Pendleton, a retired former senior manager challenge the local Members of Parliament. from Kent Foods was born in Tunbridge Wells, Christopher Pendleton has been selected to the only Kent constituency where the majority voted remain in the 2016 Brexit referendum, with only 44.6 per cent voting to leave the EU. Also readying himself to take on Mr Clark in the ‘remainer’ constituency is current Liberal Democrat councillor Ben Chapelard, who says he BREXITEERS: [l-r] Christopher Pendleton, Peter Griffiths, Stephen Peddie believes the country has
By Richard Williams
HAPPY TIMES: Gin and jazz on The Pantiles ‘seen the lies of the Brexiteers’ and has ‘changed its mind about leaving the EU’. During May’s European Elections, the Brexit Party won four out of the ten seats contested for the South-East region, and nationally secured 29 MEPs out of the UK’s 73 seats. In Tunbridge Wells they secured 32 per cent share of the local vote beating all other parties. In nearby Tonbridge & Malling where Nigel Farage’s party stormed to victory in the local elections, securing 15,713 votes or 42.2 per cent of the local vote, MP Tugendhat is also being challenged by a Brexit Party hopeful. Stephen Peddie is hoping to appeal to the 52.9 per cent who voted leave in the referendum, while MP for Wealden, Nus Ghani, is also facing a challenge from the party with Peter Griffiths having been chosen to represent the party in the 52.8 per cent leave constituency. So far, the Brexit Party has announced 150 PPCs out of the 650 parliamentary constituencies in the UK.
4
NEWS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Rail fare rises will force commuters to change tracks and switch to local jobs the price rises by saying 98 pence in every ÂŁ1 spent in fares goes back into running the railway. Robert Nisbet, Director of Nations and Regions for the Rail Delivery Group, said: “No one wants to pay more to get to work but by holding rises down to no more than inflation, money from fares will continue to cover almost all of the day-to-day costs of running rail services. “This means private sector and taxpayer money can go towards improving services for the long term.â€?
By Richard Williams THE latest round of rail fare increases are another example of local commuters being ‘milked’ because they are seen as coming from an affluent region. That’s the view of John Reynolds from Tonbridge Line Commuters who also believes the continual rises will force people to look for work closer to home. He told the Times this week: “Every year we get these increases. “Historically, train companies think we in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge are rich so they have been willing to milk us, but it is putting people off trains to look for work locally.� And he warned: “There is going to be little prospect of improvements to service at the moment, not with the franchise competition having been put off again, so Southeastern are just going to carry on as they are. “What we need is more seats, more rolling stock and in the short term, improvements in punctuality.� A spokesperson for Southeastern said that they were ‘using every available train we have got in service to meet the demands of our passengers’. The spokesman added: “In the last few years we’ve introduced 68 extra carriages across our network to increase capacity, ensuring that the longest trains are on the busiest routes wherever possible.� Commuters in Tunbridge Wells will have to
‘MILKED’ Commuters at Tunbridge Wells station find an additional ÂŁ130 a year following the latest rail fare increases unveiled last week. The government announced a 2.8 per cent rise to regulated fares, including season tickets, which will come into effect in January next year, twelve months after commuters were hit with a 3.2 per cent increase. The higher than inflation fare increases, based on the Office for National Statistics Retail Price Index [RPI], will mean those travelling from Tunbridge Wells to London every day will now have to pay around ÂŁ4,926 a year for an annual season ticket. However, the true cost of daily travel to London is much higher when tax and National Insurance are taken into account, with basic rate taxpayers
having to earn £140 a week just to pay for their season tickets. For those on minimum wage, this could account for around half their salary, and some London workers on higher tax rates could even be paying more than £11,000 a year, when parking, tube fares, tax and National Insurance are all taken into account. Those commuting from Tonbridge haven’t fared much better, with the cost of a season ticket set to rise around £122 a year from around £4,364 to £4,486. RPI used to calculate the rail rise is around 1 per cent higher than the Government’s preferred inflation rate, the Consumer Price Index [CPI]. Industry body the Rail Delivery Group justified
Extension He continued: “Rail users across the country are already seeing and feeling the benefits of this investment with new trains and more services running across the country.� The news comes just after it was announced that Southeastern has been granted a fivemonth extension to continue running the south-east route until April 2020, after the competition process to find a new operator was cancelled. According to the Department of Transport, the cancellation was due to ‘significant concerns that continuing the competition process would lead to additional costs incurred to the taxpayer, with no certainty that this would deliver envisaged benefits for passengers in a timely fashion’. A spokesperson added that the department would ‘use this period to develop a solution that delivers the capacity and performance benefits that passengers are expecting’.
Two more high street names close their doors JACK Wills on The Pantiles and Jessops in Royal Victoria Place have both announced they are to close their stores in Tunbridge Wells. As reported in the Times earlier this month, fashion chain Jack Wills was recently rescued from administration by Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct in a £12.8million deal.
Rents Despite the rescue package, Mr Ashley has closed eight of the 100 Jack Wills stores, including Tunbridge Wells, Marlborough, Derby, Reigate, Rock, Durham, Kingston and St Albans. Sports Direct said the reason for the closures was the refusal of local landlords to lower rents. A spokesman said: “Since rescuing Jack Wills
FASHION VICTIM Troubled Jack Wills to close in Tunbridge Wells
SHUTTER STOPPED Camera specialists Jessops will close next month
from administration last week, we have been working hard with landlords to try and keep as many stores in the existing portfolio open. “Unfortunately, the landlords involved with these eight stores have not co-operated. “Where possible, Sports Direct is committed to finding new roles within the group for all affected Jack Wills staff.â€? Camera specialist Jessops is also closing its Royal Victoria Place store on September 8. All staff have been served redundancy notices. The chain, which struggled to adapt after the rise of digital photography, was famously bought out by Dragon’s Den entrepreneur, Peter Jones, who paid ÂŁ2million for the camera group in 2013. Nobody at Jessops was available for comment but the store manager confirmed the closure.
+HUH DW +LOGHQ 3DUN ZH UH ;HUR *ROG 3DUWQHUV DQG WKH SHUIHFW DFFRXQWDQW WR KHOS \RXU EXVLQHVV JURZ
See Chase from PAW Patrol at intervals on Thursday 29 August at Spa Valley Railway!
;HUR LV RQOLQH DFFRXQWLQJ VRIWZDUH WKDW KHOSV \RX WR VDYH WLPH RQ \RXU SDSHUZRUN DQG JHW SDLG IDVWHU /RJ LQ RQOLQH DQ\WLPH DQ\ZKHUH RQ \RXU 0DF 3& WDEOHW RU SKRQH WR VHH XS WR GDWH ILQDQFLDOV
www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk Tel: 01892 537715 Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY
Š 2019 Spin Master. Š 2019 Viacom International Inc.
)RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ SOHDVH YLVLW RXU ZHEVLWH ZZZ KLOGHQSDUNDFFRXQWDQWV FR XN &RQWDFW XV RQ @HildenPark
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Exam Results
NEWS
PHOTOS: Craig Matthews
Schools buck the national trend with students proving they’re on top form
5
TUNBRIDGE WELLS GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge were able to secure these higher grades. Roger Gough, Kent County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The majority of our schools have performed well. BENNETT MEMORIAL DIOCESAN SCHOOL
TUNBRIDGE WELLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS
By Holly Stafford and Grace Lewis
ST GREGORY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL
IT WAS a day to remember for hundreds of students across Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge on Thursday when they received their A level results. Despite the national drop in the number of students achieving top grades, local schools appear to have bucked the trend. National figures from the Joint Council for Qualifications show that 2019 saw the lowest proportion of students awarded A*/A grades since 2007. A* was introduced into the A level marking system in 2010, before this the highest grade was an A. However, it would appear that many students,
Encouraging This is the first year the majority of subjects, with the exception of some ancient and modern foreign languages, have been in the form of new linear A levels, so it is encouraging to see pupils still performing well. “In the Tunbridge Wells area in particular, there have been some very high performing schools. “Bennett Memorial Diocesan School is currently among the top non-selective schools ranked by A level Average Point Score [APS] per entry, while The Skinners’ School and Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School are in the top five selective schools in the same category.”
6
NEWS
Exam Results
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk Bennett Memorial Diocesan School also stood out in their A level results, with 52% of students achieving grades A*-B. Headteacher Jon Sparke said: “We are immensely proud of the achievements of all our students. There are excellent outcomes right across the board for which students have worked extremely hard.”
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
One student at the Culverden Down school, Lauren White, received the top grades of A*, A*, A. She said: “I am just really surprised at my results as this year’s standards have been quite tough. I might take a gap year before going on to university, where I would like to study English Literature.”
BENNETT MEMORIAL DIOCESAN SCHOOL TUNBRIDGE WELLS GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL: The proud Roberts family with Hannah and Matthew At Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School [TWGGS], eight girls received three A* grades. Headteacher Linda Wybar said: “We are exceptionally proud of our pupils who have achieved excellent results in a very challenging year. “They fully deserve the tremendous grades they have attained.”
Tension TWGGS student Hannah Roberts was one of the high-achieving eight, having gained four A*s. She told the Times: “I knew I had done well, but not this well, as there was a lot of tension
because of the exam standards set this year. “It means I can go to the University of Oxford, which was my first choice, where I shall be studying music.” Hannah’s twin brother Matthew, who attended The Skinners’ School, also achieved high grades, gaining an A* and two As. He secured a place at Bath, which was his first choice of university. Proud mum Bridget Roberts said: “Last night it was tense in the house with two children receiving results. But I’m so happy and relieved for both of them. I think we need to crack open the bubbly!”
CLAREMONT SCHOOL, ROBERTSBRIDGE
KENT COLLEGE, PEMBURY
8
NEWS
Exam Results
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
TUNBRIDGE WELLS GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL
CLAREMONT SCHOOL, ROBERTSBRIDGE ST GREGORY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL St Gregory’s Catholic School in Reynolds Lane saw the overall pass rate at 99% with over a third of its students awarded grades of A*-B, and two thirds getting A*-C grades. Acting Director of the school’s Sixth Form, Angela Morrissey, said: “Sixth Form is always a bit of a sprint. We have just two years to prepare these young people not just for their A levels but also for university and employment. “I’m so pleased that our students have stormed past the finishing line, with many achieving far more than they dreamed of two years ago.” One student, Tom Parsons, who will be studying film at Ravensbourne University London, said: “I wasn’t too nervous about today, more relieved, actually.”
ST GREGORY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL
TONBRIDGE SCHOOL
THE SKINNERS’ SCHOOL
10
NEWS
Exam Results
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Neill Thomas is a partner in Thomas Mansfield Solicitors Limited. He specialises in employment law and works between his offices in the City and Tunbridge Wells. Each month he will answer readers’ questions. In this article he looks at the legal risks involved in using Whatsapp at work.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys saw more than half of students securing A*-B grades. Headteacher Amanda Simpson said: “We are delighted with the successes of our students in maintaining and building on our excellent standards. We extremely proud of the motivation and commitment of all staff and students.”
TUNBRIDGE WELLS GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Imagine, if messages you sent on Whatsapp could be viewed and used against you by your employer! Well, that’s exactly what happened recently in a situation involving police officers in Scotland.
Surprised The Skinners’ School achieved 80% of grades at A*-B and almost 20% of grades at A*. Nearly all students at Skinners’ achieved their ambitions of winning places at Russell Group universities. Top achieving student Finn Gordon, who received a straight A* in every subject, said: “I am very surprised – and confused – as I did not expect to do so well!”
BENNETT MEMORIAL DIOCESAN SCHOOL
How other schools fared… Hillview School for Girls saw their best A level results to date, with more than 72% of all grades being C and above. Headteacher Hilary Burkett said: “I am delighted that our Year 13 students have achieved fantastic grades. It is wonderful to see so many of them achieve the high grades they need to move on to the next stage of their education or employment.”
The Hayesbrook School in Tonbridge welcomed outstanding results, with 73% of students receiving grades A*-C and 38% of students gaining an A*-B grade, both beating last year’s records. “Once again, I am extremely proud of what our brilliant students have achieved – the trend of impressive results in our sixth form continues,” commented the Executive Principal, Daniel Hatley.
Kent College, Pembury had a 100% pass rate, with more than 35% of students gaining A*-A and 71% achieving A*-B grades. Headmistress Julie Lodrick said: “Once again I am delighted to see our girls doing so well, I am extremely proud of them all. Our school’s academic development and pastoral care ensures an all-round confidence, allowing our girls to surpass expectations.”
Beechwood Sacred Heart School’s Head, Helen Rowe, said: “We are immensely proud of our students and all their achievements and would like to take this opportunity to wish them all the very best for the future. “As ever, we continue to delight in the successes of our pupils, whose grades have facilitated their transition to a wonderful range of universities and courses.”
Tonbridge School also received excellent results, with students on average achieving three A grades, and 15 receiving a ‘clean sweep’ of A* or the equivalent grades. The school’s Headmaster, James Priory, said: “I offer my warmest congratulations to our students for working so hard and achieving such outstanding results.” Beacon Academy in Crowborough saw over a quarter of its students getting grades A*-A, which was a 5% improvement on last year’s results. Head of Sixth Form Steve Baker said: “We would like to congratulate all of our Year 13 students, who have worked incredibly hard under really challenging circumstances, once again, to achieve these impressive results.”
Hugh Christie School in Tonbridge had pupils achieving a 100% pass rate in Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Art, History and Geography. Executive Principal Jon Barker, said: “I would like to congratulate all our students on achieving their A level and Vocational results.”
Mayfield School celebrated another year of success with 55% of entries receiving A*/A grades and 75% of students achieving A/B grades. Headmistress Antonia Beary said: “These results are a great credit to Mayfield’s inspirational and dedicated staff, as well as the girls themselves, who have all worked hard. It is a great joy to see so many girls achieve such impressive results again this year.”
The Judd School in Tonbridge had another year of ‘amazing’ results, with 88% of grades being A*-B, and 12 students gaining straight A*s. Headteacher Jon Wood said: “I am delighted that the hard work and determination of our students and staff have yet again delivered outstanding results. “Truly deserved, these results will open doors to them for the rest of their lives.” Claremont Senior School in Robertsbridge saw another rise in achievement for the fourth year in a row, with more than a third of results graded A*-A. Head of Sixth Form Aaron Eckhoff said: “I am particularly proud that our students have earned themselves opportunities to not only continue their studies here in the UK, but in many high profile universities all over the world, and in particular the US.”
A detective constable discovered some group chat Whatsapp messages between officers (one of whom was a suspect in a sexual offences investigation) that have been described as “sexist and degrading, racist, anti-Semitic, homophobic, mocking of disability” and having a “flagrant disregard for police procedures by posting crime scene photos of current investigations.” There were 17 members in one Whatsapp group and 15 in the other. The detective conducting the investigation decided to pass the messages to the Professional Standards Department. As a result, misconduct charges were brought against a number of officers. The officers complained to a Scottish court that using their WhatsApp messages to bring non-criminal misconduct proceedings against them was unlawful and a breach of their right to privacy under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The Scottish court decided that the Police Service of Scotland was entitled to use Whatsapp messages as a legal basis for bringing misconduct proceedings against a group of officers. It cited the fact that the police are subject to professional standards which apply both on and off duty, as a reason for their expectation of privacy being limited. Police officers are in an unusual position as they swear on oath to behave in accordance with the Standards, which apply when the officer is on or off duty. The Standards refer to, among other things, honesty and integrity, equality and diversity, discreditable conduct and challenging and reporting improper conduct. The general public will be reassured by Lord Bannatyne’s comments that it was clear that, for the average individual, who does not work in a regulated environment, messages such as this will remain private regardless of how unpalatable their content is. However, for individuals subject to professional standards or working in otherwise regulated industries, there will be limits on the right to keep such messages private. This includes solicitors, barristers, doctors, and financial services workers but may extend to individuals working in many other sectors. We have a lot of information on our website www.thomasmansfield.com
Thomas Mansfield Solicitors Limited First Floor, 121-123 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QG Telephone 01892 337540 London - Sevenoaks - Tunbridge Wells – Tonbridge – Maidstone
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Community News
NEWS
11
Volunteers rewarded for dedication to Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk COLLECTORS and fundraisers from the local area have been recognised by the Royal British Legion for their support of the Poppy Appeal in West Kent. The special ceremony at the Royal British Legion Village in Aylesford recognised 50 countywide award-winners following the centenary of the end of World War One. Pam Mills of Tonbridge was nominated by the town’s Poppy Appeal organiser, Carl Lewis, who described her as ‘simply stated, a force’. He said: “She has revitalised her community’s understanding and recognition of why we should be proud of our Armed Forces and the sacrifices they have made for the freedoms we enjoy today.” He added: “Not only this, she has researched and showcased how the people of Tonbridge during both world wars showed their unconditional support of our bravest boys. “She has engaged with schoolchildren and the people of Tonbridge, putting on musical shows,
exhibitions, last year’s Tonbridge 100 centenary living history weekend, and even walking tours.” Pam is standing down after seven years working for the Poppy Appeal. In 2018 alone, her activities raised in excess of £7,000 of the town’s record total of more than £42,000. Carl also nominated another winner, Richard Heald and The Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Living History Group, who were the ‘talk of the town’ at the Tonbridge 100 event last August. Jacky Hawksbee and Julie Bryer also received an award on behalf of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Gateway. They were nominated by Jane Ayers, Community Fundraiser for
West Kent for the display of knitted poppies that adorned the exterior wall of the town’s library.
‘There were more than 20,000 poppies that made up the stunning display and it was clean, clear and tasteful. The theme itself was appropriate and classically poignant’ She said: “The site was perfect for all to see and is a splendid backdrop to the Tunbridge Wells war memorial. “There were more than 20,000 poppies that made up the stunning display
and it was clean, clear and tasteful. The theme itself was appropriate and classically poignant. “It was clear that the Gateway manager, Denise Shortall, and her staff had put in many hours of hard work, which included using a cherrypicker and installing late at night. They should be extremely be proud of the effort.” Jane Rabbetts of Tesco supermarket in Pembury was also recognised. She was put forward by Jane Ayers, who said: “The village has struggled to replace their Poppy Appeal organiser, who retired after many years three years ago. “Despite this, Jane and Tesco have been steadfast in ensuring a vital offering is made in store every year, and they have raised more than £16,600 in the last three years.” The other winners in West Kent were Pat Westgate and Freda Cross for their exhibition Hawkhurst Remembers World War One, and Penny McCulloch, who hand-knitted woggles for the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of Ightham village. Last year’s Kent appeal reached its highest ever total, £1.96million – an increase of £700,000 since World War One centenary events started in 2014.
IN RECOGNITION: (Top) Pam Mills of Tonbridge; (above, l-r) Jacky Hawksbee and Julie Bryer of Tunbridge Wells Gateway with Richard Cast, Royal British Legion’s County Chairman, and Jane Rabbetts of Pembury
12
NEWS
Community News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Gym’s fitness challenge to raise £4,000 for hospital
National award for project to prevent summer learning loss
By Andy Tong A LOCAL gym is holding a fitness event to raise funds for a new bladder scanner unit at Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust [MTW]. Énergie Fitness, at the Enterprise Centre in North Farm Road, are inviting members of the public to participate from August 28-31. The challenge is based on the distance between Land’s End and John O’ Groats, which is 847 miles and is known as LEJOG. Ray Betts, General Manager at Énergie Fitness, said: “Our aim is to get people to cover the distance in a number of ways – by running, rowing, cross-training or cycling. “We chose it because it can be done in any measurable way and it’s easy to track how far you’ve gone.
Abilities “People of all ages and abilities will be able to take part in it, and make a donation – even if it’s just a pound.” He added: “I’ve got many friends who have done LEJOG events, including Sean Conway, who’s the only man to swim the length of Britain. But this is something that anyone can do.” He is trying to raise £4,000, and the hospital is seeking £8,000 overall. Marks & Spencer at The Fountains Retail Park have helped out with a static bike on site for customers to clock up some miles.
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE Ray Betts (left) with Sir Ranulph Fiennes The Énergie event is also being backed by other local companies, including Toni and Guy, Chimera Climbing, The Body Shop and Waterstones. Ray, who has just been chosen to be part of The Bear Grylls Adventure team, has received an endorsement from renowned explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes. He sent a message saying: “All the very best to everyone taking part and supporting the fundraiser to raise money for a new bladder scanner unit for the NHS.” Laura Kennedy, MTW’s Fundraising Manager, said: “Good luck to the Énergie Fitness team taking on this fantastic challenge! “We are delighted that every one of the team’s 847 miles will be supporting our charity. We hope local people will get behind them. “Charity donations really do make a difference to Tunbridge Well Hospital. A special thanks goes to Ray for his support.” To take part in the challenge, simply turn up at Énergie Fitness, or call them on 01892 804007. To make a donation, visit the Justgiving page online: justgiving.com/fundraising/ray-betts3
A MAN from West Malling has won a national award for his plan to tackle the educational impact of child poverty during summer holidays. Rob Comber was the winner of the 10th annual Local Government Association Challenge. He impressed judges with his Summer Slide project looking at ‘summer learning loss’, and was awarded a £10,000 scholarship to launch it. According to this concept, schoolchildren – especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds – lose some of the knowledge and skills they have acquired during term time over the long holidays. The 35 year old is a Service Development Manager for Kent County Council’s Children, Young People and Education directorate. The first phase of Rob’s project involves working with four primary and four secondary schools to discover the extent summer learning loss. Then a summer school will be designed by
ENRICHMENT Rob Comber with his award
high-achieving students over the age of 16. They would be under the supervision of newly qualified and trainee teachers, who will themselves be coached by more experienced teachers. The summer school will initially cater for around 90 pupils aged nine to 13. Rob, a father of two, said: “The summer education enrichment programme is for those children and families who feel the pain of poverty on a daily basis. It will focus on education but will be delivered in a creative way.
‘We will work to ensure young people see summer school as a reward rather than a criticism’ “Young people will be able to work on passion projects, doing something they are passionate about that will make a difference to their community, such as establishing a community shop or hosting a football tournament.” The summer schools will include music, art, sport, outdoor learning and STEM subjects. Rob added: “As the courses will be designed by young people it should feel like something other young people want to do. “We will work with schools to look at how to ensure young people see the summer school as a reward rather than a criticism of them.” Rob also plans to provide food for children who would receive free school meals in term time. Kent County Council’s Leader, Paul Carter, was on the judging panel and said: “Rob’s presentation, stand and project were outstanding and he was a much-deserved winner. “We look forward to seeing his project come to life and the outcomes it brings for disadvantaged children.”
14
NEWS
National News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
EU warns Johnson: Scrapping backstop will risk new border BORIS JOHNSON has been met with a wall of resistance from Brussels over his demand for major changes to the Withdrawal Agreement, increasing the risk of a no-deal Brexit. The Prime Minister said that the backstop – the contingency plan to avoid a hard border with Ireland – should be removed from the deal ahead of the October 31 Brexit deadline. But European Council president Donald Tusk warned that scrapping it risked a return to a hard border in Ireland. Downing Street said that unless the backstop is abolished ‘there is no prospect of a deal’.
Realistic Mr Tusk said: “Those against the backstop and not proposing realistic alternatives in fact support re-establishing a border – even if they do not admit it.” The European Commission said Mr Johnson had failed to put forward a ‘legal, operational solution’ to the issue and had acknowledged that if one could be found, it might not be ready in time. Meanwhile in private, an official briefing note circulated among diplomats from the member states made clear the EU’s frustration with the Prime Minister’s approach. The document disputes Mr Johnson’s claims about the Good Friday Agreement and the Irish border as ‘incorrect’ and ‘misleading’. It was ‘incorrect to state that the people of Northern Ireland have no influence over the legislation that would apply to them’. And it was ‘misleading’ to suggest that the two separate jurisdictions that exist on the island can be managed with an open border because that was only possible now due to the framework provided by EU law.
NEWS IN BRIEF
New study shows lack of fracking resources
IN CUSTODY Jed Foster leaves court
Foster denies ‘horrific murder’ of police officer in court appearance A MAN accused of killing a police officer while he investigated a burglary has denied any involvement in his ‘horrific murder’. Jed Foster, 20, is charged with the murder of 28-year-old PC Andrew Harper on Thursday in the village of Sulhamstead in Berkshire. He died from multiple injuries after being dragged under a vehicle. Foster appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court yesterday [Tuesday] charged with his murder and theft of a quad bike. Members of the Thames Valley constable’s family watched from the packed public gallery as Foster confirmed his personal details. He was not asked to enter pleas to the charges, and will appear at Reading Crown Court today. His lawyer, Rob Jacques, said: “On behalf of him and his family I want to say three things. He denies any involvement in the horrific murder of PC Harper. “We urge the police to follow all lines of
inquiry and for the public to come forward and co-operate.” Speaking outside court, standing next to Foster’s mother, Jo, who was clutching a teddy bear, Mr Jacques gave a statement. He said: “He denies any involvement in the murder of PC Harper,” he said. “He and I and the family urge the police to follow every single inquiry to establish who did, who was responsible, so that justice is delivered for PC Harper. “It’s an extremely difficult investigation and we urge any members of the public who have information to co-operate with the police, no matter how difficult that is.” Foster was charged on Monday evening after investigators were granted an extra 24 hours to question 10 suspects, with the remaining nine bailed until September 13. All 10 suspects were arrested within an hour of the incident at a nearby caravan park.
THE potential to extract shale gas from fracking in the UK could be significantly lower than previously thought. Estimates in 2013 for the size of the resource in the UK’s Bowland shale in northern England, which used data from shale in the US, found it could provide up to 50 years’ worth of current gas demand. But new estimates based on lab analysis of UK shale rock by the University of Nottingham and British Geological Survey suggests there may be less than 10 years’ worth of gas at current levels of demand.
‘Do not travel’ on trains RAIL passengers planning a Bank Holiday getaway are being urged to avoid the East Coast Main Line this weekend. Train operator London North Eastern Railway (LNER) issued a ‘do not travel’ warning for the route between London and Scotland via York on Saturday and Sunday. King’s Cross will be closed due to engineering work, meaning there are no trains between London and Peterborough.
Smith misses third Test STEVE SMITH has been ruled out of the third Ashes Test tomorrow [August 22] after the Australian batsman’s concussion diagnosis at Lord’s last Saturday. Coach Justin Langer said: “When we followed the protocols he was probably a couple of days off being fit to be selected. “It was really a no-brainer, he felt a bit better yesterday but he is not going to have time enough to tick off everything he needs to do to be ready to play.”
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Persimmon comes up short in quality control FTSE 100 house-builder Persimmon has posted a dip in profits after its efforts to improve quality slowed down the number of properties being sold. The group reported profit before tax of £509.3million for the six months to June 30, down from £516.3million. Total group revenue was 4.5 per cent lower at £1.75billion, as the number of new homes sold slowed to 7,584 compared with 8,072 this time last year.
NSF pays price for bid
John Wood sells nuclear JOHN WOOD GROUP has agreed the sale of its nuclear business for £250million in a bid to cut its debt pile. The energy company, which is based in Aberdeen, said the deal with US group Jacobs would allow it to deleverage, after taking on debt for its acquisition of Amec Foster Wheeler two years ago. Its projects include a £770million contract with the Sellafield nuclear decommissioning site in Cumbria.
BUSINESS
15
Global and Brexit concerns remain in ‘double whammy’
NEWS IN BRIEF
NON-Standard Finance counted the cost of a failed bid for Provident Financial as reported losses widened in half-year results. The lender said it had booked exceptional charges of £25.3million for the period, including £12.7million associated with the attempted takeover. Other costs included a £12.5million writedown on the value of its Loans At Home business. Losses before tax came in at £22.8million compared with a £2.6million loss last year.
National News
Lidl and Aldi see small rises but supermarkets’ summer falls flat SUPERMARKETS failed to beat last year’s bumper summer, according to new figures which show that grocery sales were flat during the last three months. Commenting on the 12 weeks to August 11, Fraser McKevitt, head of retail and consumer insight at Kantar, said: “The memory of last year still looms large for retailers. “This summer’s comparatively poor weather, combined with low levels of like-for-like price rises, have made growth hard to find for retailers.” He added: “July’s hottest day on record wasn’t enough to shift the market into growth, but the grocers will have been encouraged by glimpses of better weather during the past four weeks, which helped boost sales of summer staples like hayfever remedies, suncare and burgers by 17 per cent, 8 per cent and 5 per cent respectively.”
All of the Big Four supermarkets, Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco, experienced a dip in sales and smaller market share during the period. Sainsbury’s showed the smallest dip, 0.6 per cent, driven by higher levels of promotion which helped boost sales of branded goods. Meanwhile, Ocado was the fastest-growing UK grocer, recording a 12.6 per cent rise. But the online supermarket only accounts for 1.4 per cent of the market. Lidl’s growth was the next fastest, at 7.7 per cent, to give the discounter a record total market share of 5.9 per cent. Rival Aldi posted a 6.2 per cent increase in sales, supported by an 11 per cent rise in bakery products and a 13 per cent increase in biscuits. Nearly half of all households in the UK shopped in an Aldi during the last 12 weeks.
THE downturn in UK manufacturing has eased slightly this month, but factories are still fearful of the global economic slowdown and Brexit uncertainty, according to a new survey. The Confederation of British Industry [CBI] reported an improvement in output in August compared with the previous month but figures remain ‘below normal’. The CBI’s order book balance rose to -13 from -34 in July, beating analyst expectations. Around 15 per cent of manufacturers said their order books were above normal, but 28 per cent said their output was below normal. Both export and domestic orders were significantly below normal levels.
Tensions The CBI’s gauge of expected selling prices fell to the lowest level in more than three years. Anna Leach, its deputy chief economist, said: “Despite signs of stabilisation in the data this month, UK manufacturers remain on the receiving end of a double whammy, the slowdown in the global economy and Brexit uncertainty. “Trade tensions between nations such as China and the US only exacerbate the demand uncertainty facing UK manufacturers.” Data for the second quarter of 2019 showed that manufacturing output fell at the fastest pace in a decade, as the UK economy contracted for the first time in almost seven years. Tom Crotty, group director of Ineos and chair of the CBI Manufacturing Council, called for an end to the Brexit deadlock. “Only then can our manufacturers turn their full attention to long-standing issues affecting the sector, such as solving the skills challenge and improving productivity.”
Jack Wills chief quits after takeover THE chief executive of fashion retailer Jack Wills, Suzanne Harlow, has left the company following its acquisition by Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct earlier this month. Ms Harlow’s departure came less than a year after she assumed the post last September, having come on board initially as a consultant in May 2018. A source said it had been her decision to leave after she made ‘significant improvements’ to the struggling chain. Over the last year she had brought in new product development, improving margins and halving the underlying earnings loss.
Despite the progress, Jack Wills was put up for sale by its former owner Bluegem Capital earlier this year. Sports Direct bought the business stating it would come under a new division established to focus solely on buying and building fashion and sports brands, and report to Michael Murray in his role as head of elevation. Mr Ashley has also bought House of Fraser, Evans Cycles and Sofa.com in the space of a year. It is not the first time Sports Direct has seen a change of management after its acquisitions. In October last year House of Fraser’s executives were cleared out.
16
NEWS
Letters
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor, Times Local News, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG If you don’t like the plan, then come up with an alternative that works I was saddened to read your lead article last week [August 14] and am responding not as a retired Conservative Borough Councillor who voted for the Calverley Square project, but as a resident concerned about the direction things are taking in local politics. I would like to ask some questions of Dr Chris. What is his costed and viable alternative to the present Calverley Square project? This must, of course, include a new Town Hall. We must discount his NIMBY idea of a theatre in Dunorlan Park – he apparently didn’t factor in the traffic chaos on the Pembury Road, or the fact that it is not near the railway station and there would be no added benefit to the local economy. We should also discount his idea of a theatre such as the Bridge; his son is an actor and knowing Nicholas Hytner does not qualify him to ignore the wealth of information given by professionals in the design of a new theatre. The Alliance should cease its nasty and untrue allegations against the council and accept that it is highly thought of as a well-run borough. Please stick to the facts and do not let this hard-won reputation be lost.
Are town disagreements bringing out the worst traits of social media age? I was not surprised to read about the unscrupulous and abusive behaviour of certain anti-theatre campaigners [August 14]. Your readers may not realise just how much time and effort a small number of political activists spend criticising the proposed theatre. This cabal either live very close to the proposed location or are involved in opposition political parties – or both. I recently looked at activity levels on one social media site. The three most active anti-theatre accounts have, between them, posted nearly 2,000 comments, and clicked the Thank icon no fewer than 6,700 times. One (Francis Harris) is an immediate neighbour of Calverley Grounds and an Alliance aide, the second (Nick Pope) is a Tunbridge Wells Alliance councillor and fellow neighbour, and the third (Angela Funnell) is the wife of a Liberal Democrat councillor. Three other prolific anti-theatre accounts stood as Labour candidates in the last local election. I’m all in favour of free speech. However, the campaign against the new theatre has involved the very worst traits of the social media age, including a lack of transparency, fake news, political subterfuge, bullying and intimidation. I very much hope this stops and we can return to a more civilised and democratic debate. Cllr Matthew Bailey Conservative Councillor for Paddock Wood West
Putting public transport in a jam It would be interesting to know how much the costs of the various public transport operators are being increased by the plethora of traffic diversions being implemented in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge for not inconsiderable periods. Operators have to bear increased fuel and tyre costs over and above the ‘norm’, while passenger numbers probably decrease in the face of disruption. Perhaps now is the time to bill the various authorities for these extra costs, rather than ultimately meeting them through the fare box and in increased fares, and seeking
There is no place for the rudeness and aggression recently seen in the council chamber, business can and should be conducted in a courteous manner. Negativity serves no purpose. If the Alliance and other parties oppose the current plan, let them come up with a positive workable alternative. Thelma Huggett Via email
THEATRE: Thelma Huggett says ‘stick to the facts’ higher payments in respect of the various concessionary travel schemes. It might also encourage those implementing various schemes to ensure contractors complete the tasks within the time, or even earlier! Tony Russell Tonbridge
Calverley’s stream of consciousness In an addendum to my letter of August 7, it is clear that you must have discussed the letter with Calverley, as he assures you that he bought his own drink. It is a pity that either you did not seek, or he did not give, an assurance about actually listening to the live internet stream of the said council meeting to gather his information for his column. If he had then you would not need to make the hypothetical suggestion that he was ‘probably next door in Wetherspoons listening’. Beginning his diatribe with ‘Word reaches Calverley…’ indicates to me a third party involvement. Ian Metcalfe Via email
Don’t waste the chance for change You reported that over 17,000 residents have signed up for the new garden waste service. Many people see the value of garden waste collection and consider the fee to be reasonable. The charge brings us in line with most local authorities in Kent and many others – of all political persuasions – across the country. There has been noise about this new charge from the local opposition. The Alliance organised a ‘rubbish council’ protest outside of the Town Hall, a stunt that upset hard-working council staff but was only attended by around 30 people. The Lib Dems and Labour have also been moaning about the ‘stealth tax’ for many months. Despite this predictable negativity, the new policy is a good one. It enables the council to add new recycling services – including glass and food waste – to bin collections, an upgrade that will benefit every household in the borough. So there is a broader message. There are some,
mostly linked with opposition political parties, who love to moan, oppose and run the town down. But the vast majority of local residents have a more positive and pragmatic approach to life, and take change in their stride. Peter Oakford Via email
Calverley
Observations on life and more important things
Hostage to potentates with fortunes Has Cuadrilla, the Australian/US-owned mining company, set up a covert fracking propaganda unit in Tunbridge Wells? On July 17 Sam Goodenough wrote in with a number of pro-fracking arguments which I believe I have refuted [August 7]. And on July 31, Richard Heath suggested that because we are hostage to ‘the whims of Middle Eastern potentates with whom… we wouldn’t be seen in the same room’, we’ve got to burn gas obtained through fracking in the UK. Richard seems to forget that for years our government has been quite happy to sit down with ‘potentates’ from various corrupt, murderous and barbaric Middle Eastern regimes (the Saudis, for instance). We excuse their excesses so that we can buy their oil, manage their money and sell them weapons. Richard also seems ignorant of the critical and urgent necessity to curtail our consumption of fossil fuels, whatever their source. Scientists tell us that we are fast approaching a tipping point, and if we don’t succeed in changing our ways the consequences for our environment and humanity will be disastrous. Paul Stepto Tonbridge
Pollution does not stop at the border While Mr Sanders [July 31] makes some fair comments about waste and imperfections within the EU, I have heard nothing from our new Prime Minister to suggest that he will remove or lower VAT on solar after Brexit. The proposed tax cuts I have read about are on income tax for high earners. The EU has set VAT at a minimum of 15 per cent, except on items such as basic foods and children’s clothing; it is the UK that has chosen to raise the rate on solar, amongst other goods, to 20 per cent. The Green Party of England and Wales wants to stay within the EU so that it can work with its sister Green parties across Europe to strengthen EU responses to environmental concerns and climate change. Unfortunately, pollution does not stop at national borders, so international co-operation is essential. Another consideration for keeping close ties with Europe is that if we are to reduce food miles (and therefore fossil fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from transport), it is surely better to trade with our closest neighbours rather than with the USA, New Zealand, Australia or other distant countries. Fran Long Tonbridge
Boris goes to the farthest reaches Could one of your Leaver readers explain how Boris Johnson, by one of ‘his wonders to perform’ (he is, after all, more of a performer than a politician), in transporting food and other goods from the farthest reaches of the earth rather than from across the Channel, is going to assist in the battle against climate change that he so fervently declares is one of his primary aims? Another unbelievable bombastic Boris boast? Alexander Magnus Via email
LOOPEE What a choice!
TALK about being confused. Calverley was ordered to Brussels, yet again, to help sort out this Brexit mess when a call of nature required Him to pop into the restroom at the airport. Imagine his surprise when confronted with the options pictured. But was a gentleman actually expected to take advantage of the saxophone on offer? So what did Calverley do? You would never guess? No, you probably would. RECRUITING qualified staff at an acceptable pay rate can often prove a headache, which is why so many firms are turning to India, where the labour pool is bigger and rates cheaper. However, all is not plain sailing. Calverley’s friend has just returned from a recruitment drive and explained: “You interview someone over the phone, invite them for an interview, and then find a different person turns up. Even when you give them the job sometimes they just don’t arrive for work. You never hear from them again.” The grass is always greener…
FOOTBALL season is underway (yes, they are still playing cricket) and club rivalry is already kicking off. Typical of the depth of feeling is the tale of two friends, one who lives in Tunbridge Wells and the other in Tonbridge. The chap in Tonbridge is an avid Arsenal supporter and has proudly erected a flagpole in his front garden that flies the club’s colours. His friend is a West Ham season ticket-holder. As dawn broke one morning, he sneaked into the garden, cut down the Arsenal flag and replaced it with a West Ham flag. Naturally he took pictures and posted them on social media. How childish – but quite amusing!
HOW annoying. A person pays out £499 for one of those GTech electric mowers (George the gardener was complaining), only to see pop through the letterbox a voucher discounting them to £299. There should be a law against it – or at the very least a refund window available for those who paid full price. Call Calverley tight-fisted, but… OVERHEARD at Costa. Two people discussing Brexit (sorry) and the odds of actually reaching a deal with the EU, when one of them declares: “There’s more chance of being kicked to death by butterflies.” Pretty much sums it up. Chin Chin, dear reader
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Weekly Comment
NEWS
17
Tom Tugendhat MBE left the British Army in July 2013 after a career in which he served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and as the military assistant to the Chief of the Defence Staff. As a Territorial Army officer, he worked on everything from those ops to establishing the Armed Forces Muslim Association, and also worked for the Foreign Office. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2015, and was elected Chair of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in July 2017.
Tom Tugendhat MP for Tonbridge & Malling
Contrary to how it might sound the breakup of Hadlow Group is a good thing CONGRATULATIONS to all those who received their A-Level results last week and best of luck to all of those receiving their GCSE results tomorrow! Even if you haven’t got the results you wanted, remember that the world is full of opportunities and there will be something out there for you, even if it might not seem like it right now. A special congratulations must also be said to all those who received results from Hadlow College and West Kent College, and a thank you to the dedication, hard work, and reassurance of the staff, despite the turbulence of the last few months. As I’m sure you know, in May this year Hadlow College went into educational administration, the first in the country. Since then, the wellbeing of staff and pupils and the ability to continue without interruption has been a priority and I am pleased that this seems to have happened. Of course, a few months down the line and a lot has changed and the colleges are heading in the right direction. The Further Education Commissioner, Richard Atkins, has been looking into all of the possible solutions to the problem. It was clear that the ‘Hadlow Group’, which included both Hadlow College and West Kent College, could not continue in its current form
and it was therefore decided to put an application into the courts for West Kent College to enter educational administration too. This was accepted by the courts last Friday. But, contrary to how it might sound, this is a good thing. It is not a new problem – rather, the beginning of a solution.
Prosperous Without the formal ties being broken between West Kent and Ashford, a solution couldn’t be implemented. It was always essential that the link between West Kent and Hadlow College remain as both offered completely different causes meeting a huge variety of needs of local students. I am delighted that the recommendation from the Further Education Commissioner recognises this and Hadlow College and West Kent College will now join with North Kent College, who have bases in Dartford and Gravesend. The most encouraging news is that they are in good financial health, which should mean long and prosperous futures for Hadlow and West Kent. This then splits up the existing Hadlow Group, as it due to the distance between them it wouldn’t make sense to East Kent to partner with
GREEN SHOOTS Hadlow College students North Kent College. This makes sense. But it explains why West Kent and Ashford Colleges had to be formally broken apart. There is still a long way to go before the new structure is fully functional, but I am pleased that the work done so far has identified the solution. Not only that, but we know in Tonbridge that the link between Hadlow College and West Kent College gives us all the options for the type of
Further Education students want to pursue. I am grateful for BDO, the administrators and leadership for all of the help they have given, as well as the Further Education and Department for Education staff for listening to the needs of our community. But most of all I am grateful to the staff, students and parents, who have continued to learn despite all of the issues over the past few months.
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Local & Live Guide
with LOCAL NEWS
WELCOME
by Organiser Paul Dunton Page 20
LISTINGS
All the acts and venues, including The Varlies (pictured) Page 37
VENUE MAP
All the locations Page 38
YOUR DEFINITIVE
GUIDE TO THE
FREE
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
MUSIC FESTIVAL FRIDAY-MONDAY AUGUST 23-26
divinebm.com
01892 329772 Enquiries@divinebm.com
19
20
Local & Live Guide
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
WELCOME TO LOCAL & LIVE
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
2019
Friday-Monday August 23-26 | FREE ENTRY
Calverley Grounds, The Spa Hotel, The Forum, The Bedford Pub, Cassidy’s Bar, The Royal Oak Pub Sneak peek
By Paul Dunton, Organiser hello@localandlive.org
I Spa Hotel The Ackerleys
PHOTOS: Chris Pope Photography
Steffan James
Food and drink
AM delighted to announce The Local & Live Music Festival is returning to the beautiful Calverley Grounds this August Bank Holiday Weekend, with an extended programme in addition to our open-air stage in the idyllic grounds of The Spa Hotel on Bank Holiday Monday. The Forum will be hosting after-show parties all weekend and there will be several venues putting on plenty of live music under the umbrella of the festival, including The Bedford Pub, Cassidy’s Bar and The Royal Oak Pub. Local & Live are delighted to be working with The Acoustic Valium Project and The Jay Harmer Foundation as part of the Local & Live Festival on The Bedford Pub stage In Calverley Grounds, we are teaming up with numerous renowned local food and drink traders to provide a varied selection of quality concessions, including beer tents from Fuggles and The George Pub. ‘Food Comes First’ offers a traditional barbecue; we have Paella, Pimm’s and bubbles from Sankey’s, ice creams from Alice’s Ices, Indian cuisine from the Raj Pavilion, Thai dishes from The Trading Post, organic vegan offerings from Mother Bhumi, coffee and teas from Fine Grind, and delicious crêpes from Delaney’s. The festival officially starts on Friday August 23 at 5.20pm in Calverley Grounds, featuring music from popular local acts Ukelear Fallout, Rocinia, Chris Parris, The Charlie Rivers Band, Mike Wilton, Planet 3 and headliners The Soundcasters. The main stage in Calverley Grounds will run from noon to 10pm on Saturday, and some of the popular local acts performing on that day include headliners Infrared, Top Cat Collective, The Varlies, The Gallerys, Plato, The Harry Whitty Band, Sorrel Nation, The Frampton Sisters, Arcelia, and many more. Sunday’s line-up again starts from midday with an array of local stars taking to the stage, including Isabella Coulstock, LAKY, Sean de Burca, Wake Up Leo, Son of Kirk, Suncharmer, Cyrano, and headliners The Steffan James Band. The grounds of The Spa Hotel and The Forum will be the main focus on Bank Holiday Monday with no stages running in Calverley Grounds. The Spa Hotel has music starting from 12.30pm and crowds can enjoy live sets from local acousticstyle acts, including Kay, Milly Rusling, Chalk & Cheese, Chris Pope, Peter Taylor, Ryan Weeks,
Summit of The Big Low, David Mumford, Orfila, and The Good Ship Band, with renowned sibling duo The Ackerleys headlining at around 8pm. Various food and drink concessions will be on site. Don’t forget, Local & Live will be running free evening shows at The Tunbridge Wells Forum on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, and acts to look out for are The Buzzards, Higgs & The Bosons, Jack Leon Mackey, Crystalate, The Blue Orchid Bouquet, All The Above, Karobela, Lee Willz, Black Gabanza, The River Flows, Rob Smyth, The Long Faces, Kung Fu Slipper, Duch Jo, Laura Lamn, Soda Prism, The Hoolies, The Naming of Things, Night Without Sleep, Leanie Kaleido and Mulvey’s Medicine. Bringing the festival to a climatic close will be Code: Marla. We will be running festival fringe events at The Bedford Pub, Cassidy’s Bar and The Royal Oak Pub all weekend. Please see our listings page overleaf for full details, and check the website for late updates. I would like to express my deepest thanks to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Tunbridge Wells Together, who are both supporting the festival with grants of £1,650 and £5,000 respectively. We have also been very well supported by four local businesses: AH Partnerships, Helios Homeopathy, Berkeley Homes, DJM Music Ltd, and of course our media sponsor the Times! Coupled with generous support and donations from many other local businesses and individuals, Local & Live has been able to return to its muchloved home of Calverley Grounds with a similar format to 2018. Once again the entire festival is FREE to attend and its ethos remains to showcase the leading original soloists and bands from the local area. Thank you to everyone for your support – I look forward to seeing you all at the festival, and please bring the sun, too!
PAUL DUNTON: Founder of Local & Live
Wednesday August 21 | 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
A chance to take the air
in a town apartment with two balconies Page 23
24
STYLISH, WELL-PLACED TOWNHOUSE
31
Hitting the heights
in a 15th-century farmhouse Page 23
BIG PLANS FOR A BIG HOME SCREEN!
22
Move
WITH THE
Times
Best For FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Best property buys for...
Ladds Court Barn
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…
£1,395,000
Chart Hill Road, Chart Sutton GUIDE PRICE
CONTACT • Savills, Cranbrook • 01580 720161 • savills.co.uk Not one but TWO impressive timber-framed barn conversions, plus a separate studio flat, around 3.6 miles from Staplehurst. Adding to the appeal, the properties are surrounded by attractive gardens and enjoy amazing panoramic views. MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST Ladds Court Barn
n Reception room n Triple-aspect sitting room with wood-burning stove and two sets of French doors to terrace
n Dining room n Beautifully-fitted kitchen/breakfast room n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room/bedroom 5
n 3 further bedrooms (one with en-suite shower) n Family bathroom Ladds Court Barn East
n First floor sitting/dining room/kitchen n 3 bedrooms (two with en suites) n Family bathroom Gardens & Garage Block
n Landscaped gardens with terraced areas, including deck with hot tub
n Quadruple garage block with studio flat above
The OPEN-PLAN LIVING…
n Driveway with electric gates, offering parking n In total, approximately 1.3 acres
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Best For
Move
WITH THE
Times 23
The PRICE…
The GARDEN…
Suffolk Mews York Road, Tunbridge Wells GUIDE PRICE
£410,000 CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk A purpose-built first-floor apartment in the centre of Tunbridge Wells with two balconies and a secure allocated parking space.
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST n Entrance hall with video entry handset n L-shaped reception room with large balcony giving space for al-fresco dining n Kitchen with glass wall to reception room
Bushes Farmhouse
Churn Lane, Horsmonden
n Bedroom 1 overlooking communal garden with en-suite shower and small balcony n Bedroom 2 n Bathroom
GUIDE PRICE
n Allocated secure underground parking
£1,100,000 CONTACT • Knight Frank, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 515035 • knightfrank.co.uk A substantial six-bedroom home forming the major portion of a 15th-century, Grade II-listed farmhouse, with huge rooms and a stunning garden. It also comes with a large, unconverted timber-framed barn, paddock and orchard, and is equidistant to both Horsmonden and Brenchley.
Beltring Road Tunbridge Wells
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
PRICE RANGE
n Accommodation arranged over
£800,000-£850,000
three storeys
n Large entrance hall n Sitting room n Dining room with feature brick fireplace n Modern country kitchen with Aga, open to an impressive apexed breakfast room overlooking garden
CONTACT • Bracketts, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 533733 • bracketts.co.uk An extended Victorian house in a no-through road leading to St John’s Recreation Ground, ideally located for highly regarded schools.
n Study n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom
MAIN POINTS OF INTEREST
n 5 further bedrooms
n Living room with open fireplace
n Family bathroom and separate shower room
n Reception room 2 with further fireplace
n Off-road parking
n Large kitchen/breakfast room
n Wonderful lawned gardens, leading to:
n Conservatory
n Paddock and orchard with rural views
n 5 bedrooms (one en suite, two with shower)
n Set within a 2.37-acre plot
n Family shower room
n Just 3 miles to Paddock Wood station
n Pretty garden with patio, electric awning and summerhouse
n Cranbrook School Catchment Area
24
Move
WITH THE
Times
EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk ExchangeFOR Mews
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
AT A GLANCE EXCHANGE MEWS CULVERDEN PARK ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Tucked-away position in St John’s n Built by Crest Nicholson in 2007 n Three floors n Well-fitted, spacious kitchen/ breakfast room with two sets of French doors to terrace n Elegant first-floor sitting room with French doors to balcony n Master bedroom with built-in double wardrobe and en-suite shower n 3 further double bedrooms (one with plantation shutters) n Family bathroom n Beautifully landscaped garden featuring a sandstone terrace, lawn and mature borders n Driveway with parking space for two vehicles n Integral garage with utility area n Walking distance of town centre and good schools for children of all ages n Just under a mile from Tunbridge Wells mainline station
OFFERS IN THE REGION OF
£575,000 CONTACT • Jackson-Stops, Tunbridge Wells • 01892 521700 • jackson-stops.co.uk
Airy Regency-style townhouse with pretty garden and well located for good schools
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Property Focus
ARCHITECTURE
Architecture
Move
WITH THE
Times 31
John Bullock
Architectural services Having studied at Edinburgh College of Art and The Royal Academy of The Hague, John Bullock launched John Bullock Design in 2003. With offices in Tunbridge Wells High Street, John has won awards for his work, and is committed to delivering the best outcomes for clients
Most cinema rooms use 5.1 surround sound, which means ‘five’ plus ‘one’. This set-up includes five ‘satellite’ speakers, typically with three speakers located around or behind the screen – left, right and centre – and two rear speakers. The ‘one’ in this equation is the subwoofer; it provides the all-important lowpitched frequencies or bass.
HOME BLOCKBUSTER Build your own private cinema to share with family and friends
Acoustics and Soundproofing The room and build acoustics are important in ensuring that sound does not reverberate around the space, or indeed escape outside. The latter is particularly key if you hope to avoid booming sounds disturbing others in the house, or even neighbours. Interior Design The interior design of a cinema room has a practical application, too; sound bounces off hard surfaces, whereas soft furnishings prevent sound reverberating around a room. TRY DECORATING WITH: • Plush carpets • Big comfy seats • Heavy lined curtains • Upholstered walls
A night in at the cinema FOR most of us, a trip to the cinema is no longer touched by the glamour it once possessed, with nationwide cinema groups attracting vast numbers of viewers, offering overpriced popcorn, sweets and fizzy drinks. Add to this people chatting and munching their way through the film while kicking the chair in front and it’s enough to put anyone off going out to watch a new blockbuster. Furthermore, with new films typically released to the public almost as soon as they’ve left the big screen, it’s easy to see why a home cinema is becoming an ever-appealing option for film lovers. However, creating such a room, or even capturing a degree of cinematic experience in a living room, is more involved than just installing the right equipment.
Other considerations include: • How big it will be and what shape • How you propose to connect your new basement to your existing house • What the best space plan and room layout is • Where to put services, i.e. drains, electric runs, ventilation, etc • Access and exit points • A garden layout that will go back on top of your new basement Having secured planning permission for our client, work began with the excavation of an area 6m x 8.3m to a depth of 3.5m.
Subterranean Our case study this month looks at a purposebuilt subterranean cinema we recently designed for clients just outside Tunbridge Wells. As part of the overall property redesign, our brief included creating a home cinema for family and friends to enjoy. Taking into account the position of the house and grounds, the ideal location was to take the room subterranean. Every planning office has a different policy regarding what you can and can’t do with undergarden basements and basements generally. It’s therefore important that you investigate the latest basement policy and guidance of your local authority at the very start so you know what kind of basement is feasible, the requirements attached to the application, and any design or cost implications. Once you are armed with this planning knowledge, you will need to get key surveys done to inform the basement design, including a topographical and arboricultural survey.
GOING UNDERGROUND One way to create the space needed
It is important to consider the level of spoil (excavated soil/rock) which will need to be removed from site following the dig. This material bulks up when dug out. To remove the spoil from the site took nearly 70 skip loads. Sometimes this soil can be used on-site for landscaping. Once the hole is structurally sound and dry, the cinematic fun begins! Great Sound Surround sound is key to the success of any cinema room. This is delivered via speakers, located to distribute different layers of sound.
TV Tips Screen size is a great place to start when considering AV equipment. Do you want a movie theatre-like screen that consumes an entire wall, or are you willing to settle for something smaller? Don’t forget where you’re going to put all the supporting equipment – a specialist rack in a nearby storeroom is a must. Our client’s cinema room was finished with 13 cinema-quality seats which step up to ensure perfect viewing for all. Plus a large projector screen with surround sound speakers and strip LEDs to create mood lighting, which all combine to produce the ultimate cinema experience – without having to step out of the front door. John Bullock Design is a multi-award-winning architectural design consultants, and the proud winner of the Times Business Awards ‘Best Business 1-25 Employees’ Award 2018. For further information, call 01892 525732 or visit johnbullockdesign.com
We would like to invite you to our coffee morning at The Foundry, Horsmonden TN12 8HF on the 6th of September at 10am in the show home. We hope to see you there, for more information please contact The Firefly Team on 01892 838363
Organised in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland.
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Local & Live Guide
Local & Live | Listings CALVERLEY GROUNDS – free entry
7pm – Second Helpin’ 8pm – Stonetooth (headline)
Friday August 23
CASSIDY’S BAR – free entry
5.20pm – Ukelear Fallout 6pm – Chris Parris 6.30pm – Rocinia 7.10pm – The Charlie Rivers Band 7.50pm – Mike Wilton 8.30pm – Planet 3 9.15pm – The Soundcasters (headline)
Saturday August 24 12noon – Will Locke 12.30pm – Jennifer Lee Ridley 1pm – Teddy Trenowden 1.30pm – Gronk 2pm – Xavier Ralph 2.30pm – Lucy Jarrett
Infrared
THE SPA HOTEL – free entry Monday August 26 12.30pm – KAY 1pm – Milly Rusling 1.30pm – Chalk & Cheese 2.05pm – Chris Pope 2.35pm – Matt Falloon
3pm – Red Green & Blue
3.10pm – Elo
3.35pm – Arcelia
3.45pm – Peter Taylor
4.10pm – Sorrel Nation
4.20pm – Ryan Weeks
4.45pm – The Frampton Sisters
4.55pm – Summit of The Big Low
5.25pm – Harry Whitty Band
5.30pm – David Mumford
6.05pm – Plato
6.05pm – Jon Grayson
6.50pm – The Varlies
6.40pm – Orfila
7.35pm – The Gallerys 8.15pm – Top Cat Collective
7.15pm – The Good Ship Band 7.55pm – The Ackerleys (headline)
9pm – The River Flows 10pm – Kung Fu Slipper 11pm – Duch Jo 12midnight – Wake Up Leo (headline) Monday August 26 1.10pm – Laura Lamn 1.50pm – Soda Prism 2.40pm – James Medhurst 3.15pm – Thoma 4pm – The Naming of Things 5pm – The Hoolies 6pm – Leanie Kaleido 7pm – Night Without Sleep 8pm – Mulvey’s Medicine 9pm – Code: Marla (headline)
THE FORUM – free entry
THE BEDFORD PUB – free entry
Sunday August 25
Friday August 23
Saturday August 24
12noon – Coney Island Maybe
7.30pm – The Blue Orchid Bouquet
2pm – Rachael Stalker
8.10pm – Jack Leon Mackey
3pm – Ben Parkhurst
8.50pm – Crystalate
4pm – Charlotte Rose Ellis
9.45pm – Higgs & The Bosons
5pm – Fred Clark
10.40pm – The Buzzards (headline)
6pm – Maverick Turtles
9.10pm – Infrared (headline)
12.30pm – The Tringham Sisters 1pm – Isabella Coulstock 1.30pm – Shep 2.05pm – LAKY 2.45pm – Anna Howie 3.20pm – Sean de Burca
7pm – KAY Saturday August 24
8pm – Move Over Dali
8.15pm – Lee Willz
9pm – Ryan Weeks
4pm – Son of Kirk
9pm – Karobela
10pm – 8 Car Attach (headline act)
4.40pm – Paul Dunton Orchestra
10pm – Black Gabanza
5.30pm – Just For Today
11pm – All The Above
Sunday August 25
6.10pm – Wake Up Leo
12midnight – The Long Faces (headline)
2pm – Arthur O’Hara
6.50pm – Suncharmer 7.30pm – Cyrano 8.10pm – Steffan James Band (headline)
3pm – Lucy Jarrett 4pm – Disciples of Lilly
Sunday August 25
5pm – Gary Lucas
8.15pm – Rob Smyth
6pm – Elliott Meldrum
All schedules subject to change. For the latest updates, see localandlive.org
Saturday August 24 4pm – Antoine Lynn 4.45pm – Joanna McGowan 5.30pm – Ukelear Fallout 6pm – Shep! 7pm – Laura Lamn 8pm – Beyond The Vinyl 9pm – Chasing Skies (headline) Sunday August 25 4pm – Will G 4.45pm – New York’s Finest Taxi Service 5.15pm – Tom Meyritz 6pm – Velvet Goldmine 8pm – Apachi Snow 9pm – Riff Raff (headline)
THE ROYAL OAK PUB – free entry Saturday August 24 Sunday August 25 Monday August 26 Live music 8pm to close (Acts to be announced, see website)
James Wood – The Gallerys
37
38
Local & Live Guide
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FESTIVAL
MAP
THE ROYAL OAK PUB
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH W
localandlive.org facebook.com/localandlive twitter.com/local_and_live instagram.com/localandlive
The Spa Hotel
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Life&Times
ARTS & CULTURE LIFE & STYLE FOOD & DRINK MOTORING SPORT and MORE...
IN PRINT AND ONLINE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK timeslocalnews.co.uk
40
CATCH JEREMY VINE AT THE CASTLE
42
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
50
NEW PORSCHE E-CARS ANNOUNCED
Focus on food
54
with a professional photographer Page 46
OVERSEAS STAR SPINS TO WIN
Life&Times
Arts & CultureFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
It’s a fine time for Jeremy Vine Radio 2 DJ and TV presenter Jeremy Vine brings his one-man show ‘What the Hell is Going On?’ to the Hever Castle’s Festival Theatre this coming Saturday [August 24]. Eileen Leahy caught up with the popular broadcaster to find out why he’s decided to leave the comfort of his studio and go out on the road…
PHOTO: PA Photo/Weidenfeld and Nicolson
arts
40
HITTING THE DECK Jeremy in his studio
So Jeremy, please can you tell us a bit about your new show ‘What the Hell is Going On?’ I am trying to answer the question we are all asking! Where did Trump come from, how did Labour go Blair-Corbyn, why Brexit but not Scottish independence? We’re in the craziest times and it is the most exciting moment for any journalist. Where did the title come from? Can I leave you to guess that, Eggheads-style? It is from the most memorable soundbite of the century so far – but you have to tell me. Or come to the show and get the answer there…
Why did you decide that now was the time to do this type of show? There is such a hunger for answers. Ever since Thatcher fell, politics has converged on the centre, as if there was only one answer to every question. Suddenly, it’s pinged left and right again – and we are in the biggest political crisis since World War Two.
‘I have taken 25,000 phone calls from listeners. And the thing I now realise is that they know what the news is, and I am the listener’
Can you tell us three interesting things that you’ll be talking about? Well, there are more than three callers to my radio show I want to mention! I have taken 25,000 phone calls from listeners. And the thing I now realise is that they know what the news is, and I am the listener.
finding my feet. It’s all a little scary. On one show I tried to dance on to the stage, then remembered I couldn’t dance.
What will the audience enjoy most? Can I turn the question around and tell you what I’ll enjoy most? Actually seeing my listeners! Remember, most days I am locked in a soundproofed, airtight room with a view only of rooftops. I love to see the people I speak to every day.
EGGHEADS? (L-R): Jeremy with Daniel O’Donnell, former Maidstone MP and current MEP Ann Widdecombe, and Owen Jones
So far, there are just three tour dates. Do you have plans to do more? We are booking them one at a time. I am
Ah yes, of course! You were on Strictly, but we’ll come to that in a minute… in the meantime, you’re a prolific broadcaster, presenter and writer, so which area of your work do you like best and why? Ooooh, now you are testing me! Radio gives you longevity. But I am having so much fun with my morning TV show on Channel 5. Talking of which, what’s your secret for keeping all the plates spinning vis-à-vis your commitments? A sense of humour. Laugh every hour of every day. Can you tell us any specific stories from your listeners that have stuck in your memory over the years and why? I’m going to mention a recent one I had. The story we were discussing was about the death of two railway workers on a train track, and we were asking whether listeners had had experience of similar accidents or near-misses. A caller phoned in to tell me about her husband, who
Jeremy Vine is the host of the BBC’s longrunning quiz show Eggheads, taking over from former host and fellow journalist Dermot Murnaghan full-time in 2014
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Arts & Culture
Life&Times
41
‘I understood that dancing is like poetry, and even if you can’t write it you can still learn to enjoy the poetry of others’ MP just recently. He said all the constituencies around him were 60 per cent Brexit. And then he paused and said: “Apart from Tunbridge Wells, of course.” And the words, of course, were said with such heavy meaning I found myself nodding and agreeing: “Of course, of course.” Yes, there is something very special about Tunbridge Wells. To book tickets for What the Hell is Going On? at Hever Festival Theatre this Saturday, August 24, visit heverfestival.co.uk This feature first appeared in SO Magazine
TAKE FIVE… Jeremy with Channel 5 co-host Storm Huntley
DANCE LIKE EVERYONE’S WATCHING! Jeremy with his Strictly dance partner Karen Clifton was killed while working on a railway in West Wales in 1990. She said: “He was wearing ear defenders. He left two girls aged eight and five. He was 30 years old. “To this day I do not know why or how this happened. There is a look-out person that is meant to warn them of oncoming trains. I guess with the noise from the machinery and wearing ear defenders he didn’t hear any warnings. “Four lives changed in an instant.” To me, it is amazing that people will say this kind of thing. It opens up a whole life of pain so intimately. Taking on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing was certainly very different
from the current affairs arena you usually work in. What key things did you get out of that experience? I understood that dancing is like poetry, and even if you can’t write it you can still learn to enjoy the poetry of others. I was partnered by Karen Clifton and we remain friends. Her movement was like art. I am in awe of her. And I think my awe is a kind of appreciation that she gave me, like a gift. I did not have it before. Finally, do you get a lot of callers from the Tunbridge Wells area to your shows, and do we really live up to our reputation of being ‘disgusted’? Funnily enough, I was talking to a Kent
HEVER FESTIVAL THEATRE Jeremy will bring everything out into the open
42
Life&Times
Going Out
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
goingout 7 days of activities
WEDNESDAY If your little ones love princesses and ballet, then don’t miss out on the Princess Ballet School Morning hosted by Once Upon a Wish, at the Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel. Your child can take part in a ballet lesson and receive a free glitter makeover, all led by Ballerina Cinders and Ballerina Beauty. The event lasts for an hour and a half and includes opportunities for photos, singing and a ballet parade, with a special
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
By Grace Lewis
certificate at the end. The price per child is £19, which includes free entry for one adult and drinks plus a snack. The event starts at 10.30am and is suitable for children aged two and a half and over. For more information, head to the hotel website mercuretunbridgewells.co.uk THURSDAY The National Trust’s Ightham Mote is hosting its very own Bat Walk. Take a guided evening MILK FEST Sissinghurst’s music and food festival
DANCING QUEENS See ABBA Revival at Hole Park walk through the grounds and learn all about the species of bats living there. You can find out how to listen for and identify the echo location signals that bats use. If you keep an eye out, you might just spot them. The walk starts at 8pm and finishes at 10pm. Tickets cost £10 per adult and the price includes a drink. For more details and booking, go to nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote
by Kent Brewery – you can pick yourself up a pint for just £3.50. Friday’s Tunes & Tails day starts with pizza and cocktails followed by great live music. The event is free and starts at midday, running till late. For further details, head to their website themilkhouse.co.uk Returning by popular demand, production company This Is My Theatre are at Smallhythe Place near Tenterden with The Importance of Being Earnest. FRIDAY One of Oscar Wilde’s most-loved Milk Fest is back for its sixth year in a works, its humour remains razorrow at the Milk House in Sissinghurst sharp to this day and is sure to – a festival of food, music and fun have you doubling up! The for the whole family to enjoy. play about Ernest, people Starting on Friday, the festival pretending to be Ernest, carries on throughout the pretending to be earnest bank holiday weekend and and the importance of is one that’s not to be Ernest and earnestness missed. There’s music starts at 7.30pm. Tickets from top local talent cost £14. For information, and a fabulous array call 01580 762334 or visit of food and drink, thisismytheatre.com/theincluding bespoke BEAR UP! importance-of-being-earnest For a railway picnic Kentish pale ale supplied
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
SATURDAY Get ready for an aromatic couple of days on The Pantiles with the Gin and Jazz Festival – Cuba Libra. As the title suggests, you can also try Demerara Rums and other dark spirits alongside the huge variety of gins today and tomorrow. They come from local producers Mayfield, Pipehouse and Longtooth, with new distillers including Mount Gay Rum and 1066 Gin. The Bluebell Railway’s Teddy Bears’ Picnic is the perfect young activity for this weekend, from Saturday to Monday. Your day includes bear hunts, games, prizes and fun for the whole family. You will receive an
Going Out
and gain full access to the 11 acres of gardens. You can also make a purchase on your way out in Pashley’s well-stocked gift shop. With a special entry price for the event, tickets cost £9.50, which includes entry to the gardens and craft show. For more information, head to pashleymanorgardens.com Hole Park at Rolvenden is holding its first Proms Spectacular from Brightling Entertainments this evening from 6.30pm. Starting with The Kent Tigers Army Parachute Display Team, followed by a Spitfires display, it will all be set to great classical music. The Orion Orchestra will play a host of favourites, including the 1812 Overture, Land of Hope and Glory and Jerusalem. For the finale there will be a firework display set to synchronised music. Tickets, which cost £37.50, can be booked online at belevents.co.uk
PRINCESS BALLERINAS Youngsters can practise their best arabesques with Cinderella at the Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel all-day train ticket, allowing you to hop on and off the steam train as many times as you like. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic, or you can pre-order one and collect it from The Bessemer Arms Restaurant at Sheffield Park at £9.50 for an adult box and £5.50 for children. There are plenty of picnic sites along the way, with ones located in Sheffield Park, Horsted Keynes and Kingscote. Tickets start from £16 for adults and children travel free with their teddy bear. More information can be found at bluebell-railway.com Visit one of the finest gardens in England with the return of The Sussex Guild Craft Show from today until Monday at Pashley Manor in Ticehurst. Starting at 10am, you can enjoy a great selection of high-quality crafts and see the summer borders in full bloom. Visitors will also have the opportunity to talk to craftspeople, buy their work, enjoy the delicious food on offer in the café
IT’S A-BAT-TIME… Take a guided Bat Walk at Ightham Mote
Life&Times
43
CRAFTY: Stalls and gardens at Pashley Manor
Life&Times
Going Out
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
bass player Roy Chilton at the Singers’ Open Mic Night at The Grey Lady Music Lounge on The Pantiles? Set the tone with any jazz, pop, gospel, folk or soul tune. Singers are asked to bring a lead sheet in their key and will be guaranteed at least one song. Anyone and everyone is welcome, even if you don’t want to get in front of the microphone. Entrance is £5 for both singers and listeners, and table bookings are available for dinner. For more information, head to thegreylady.co.uk
PICK OF THE WEEK: Maize Maze
NIGHT AT THE PROMS At Hole Park SUNDAY Still with events at Hole Park – fancy putting on your dancing shoes? The UK’s No 1 Abba tribute band, ABBA Revival, is there this Sunday. Listen to your favourite Abba hits and be in for the chance to win a case of Champagne if you come dressed as the best Abba lookalike. Gates open at 5pm, giving you plenty of time to find a spot and unpack your INSENSIBLE SOCIETY The Importance of Being Earnest at Smallhythe Place
KICKER Caption body to go in this style thankyou
picnic, ready for a spectacular evening of entertainment. Food and drink is available to buy on site, and the music starts at 7pm with ABBA Revival performing from 8.15pm-10pm. Child tickets are £15 and for an adult ticket it’s £30. To book your spot, and for more information on the event, go to belevents.co.uk BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY Do you have a song in your heart? Then why not give voice to it by singing along with the wonderful pianist Roger Lewin and the amazing
Every day at Penshurst Place
TUESDAY Pop along to Fenwick in Royal Victoria Place for a Children’s Baking Class and Parents’ Sparkling Cream Tea. Children aged between four and 12 can take part in a cupcake-making and decorating class from 3pm. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy a sparkling cream tea, including a glass of Prosecco, just don’t get the two sessions mixed up! The class starts at 3pm and lasts for an hour. Tickets cost £12 for adults and £9 for children. For details and to book a place, visit fenwick.co.uk
If you want to get away from it all, you can get lost in Penshurst Place’s hugely popular Maize Maze. Spanning six acres, and cut in the shape of a hot air balloon, it’s is open for the entire bank holiday weekend. There are three levels of challenge to choose from within the maze, so it’s suitable for all ages and abilities. A standard adult ticket is £12, and for children it’s £6.50. For opening times, visit penshurstplace.com
PHOTO: Craig Prentis Photography
44
Life&Times
food
46
Food & Drink FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Food, glorious food, and how you can take the perfect pictures of it Photographer Jason Wain is a highly successful local food portrait artist who regularly shoots all over the world. Now you can have the chance to enjoy one of his expert photographic workshops, as Eileen Leahy reveals
I
T’S fair to say that Jason Wain must have to keep his passport on him at all times given the amount of travelling he does as a professional photographer. If he’s not out shooting in Uganda for charity SHINING A LIGHT Jason Wain teaches the art of photography
Tearfund, he’s in Italy taking pictures of rugby players for a sports brand, or hotfooting it around Australia capturing images of some of its most respected chefs. And if you’re a keen photographer or foodie – or both – then you have the chance to meet Jason and get to know all
‘Well, you have to love food and love photography… Love them enough to be patient and flexible enough to work towards the goal’ about his work, not to mention many of his expert tips, as he has started running photographic workshops. The first is at The Poet pub in Matfield on Tuesday September 10. Given the amount of Instagram accounts dedicated to what we eat, it’s fair to say that he’s capturing the zeitgeist by putting on this kind of event for people who want to shoot food well – and then eat it. “It’s great that people are passionate about food and can share it with a like-minded
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Food & Drink
Life&Times
47
Pour it with pride…
Drinks Editor James Viner celebrates the sparkling success of English fizz Following the resounding success of last year’s game-changing ‘vintage of the century,’ English wine has incontestably arrived. Recent growth figures have been staggering, with three million extra vines expected be planted in 2019, on top of the 1.6 million in 2018 and one million in 2017. This is in addition to the boom in the number of bottles of English wine being sold, with a record 15.6 million in 2018, easily beating the previous record (6.3 million bottles in 2014). community via social platforms like Instagram,” says Jason. “But that said, there is a baffling amount of unappetising content out there!” He describes his inaugural workshop as being an ‘introduction to photography with an emphasis on food, but the principles will apply across all genres of photography’. And what, would he say, are the key attributes to have if you want to become a food photographer and not just a blogger? “Well, you have to love food and love photography,” he says. “Love them enough to be patient and flexible enough to work towards the goal.” In terms of where Jason likes to go out and about to eat, of course The Poet is a big hit as he regularly photographs dishes for its menus. Any particular favourites? “The Sunday lunch is a brilliant combination of fine dining meets generous comforting portions,” he enthuses. And where else does he
like to frequent locally? “For drinks it’s got to be Fuggles – I’m a stout man and they have a fantastic variety, coupled with a great ambience. “In terms of coffee… I haven’t found a place in Tunbridge Wells that I’m a great fan of yet – let me know if you know of one!”
WAIN’S WORLD Three simple hacks for getting the best shots of food to post: 1. Use natural window light to light your dish (especially if shooting from a phone). 2. In a similar vein, don’t use your on camera flash. 3. Come on my food photography workshop! For more information on Jason and his photography courses, visit jasonwain.co.uk
1) ZESTY, FRUIT-FORWARD CHARDONNAY-LED BUBBLES 2014 Hindleap Classic Cuvée, Bluebell Vineyard Estates [BVE], East Sussex, Alc 11.5% (£26-£30, Noble Green Wines/ Butlers Wine Cellar/South Down Cellars/ The Secret Cellar) It’s difficult not to admire both the freshness and (allied) drinkability of this impeccable sunny summer’s day aperitif. Established in 2005, and situated on the edge of Ashdown Forest near the famed Bluebell Steam Railway, BVE is home to the awardwinning range of bright and uplifting ‘Hindleap’ (yes, they’re surrounded by hopping hinds!) quality English vintage sparklers. This is vibrant classic-method fizz with a whisper of orange blossom and mild yeast-imparted toastiness. Intense pear, apple, mandarin and pink grapefruit flavours put their foot to the floor from the start and keep it there all
Follow James on Twitter: @QuixoticWine
the way through a chalky, lengthy finish. Energetic mousse and very classy. One for soft cheeses, eggs benedict, oysters or fish and chips. Delicious! 2) MUST-TRY PRIME SUMMER GARDEN PARTY ENGLISH PINK Langham Estate Rosé NV, Dorset, Alc 12% (£28-£28.95, langhamwine. co.uk & Lea & Sandeman) Dangerously easy to drink, this racy pink sparkler from Dorset has vivid red cherry, strawberry and cranberry fruit as well as tangy acidity, a lively mousse and impeccable balance. Class right down
1
2
3
to its fingers and toes. It’s the ultimate picnic wine and one I personally love – sunshine in a glass on even the greyest day. A dynamo of rosy delectableness that doesn’t put a foot wrong. Sip and savour its splendidness. Textbook. 3) REFINED FIZZ FROM AN ON-SONG PIONEER PRODUCER THAT WILL STOP YOU IN YOUR TRACKS Nyetimber Classic Cuvée Brut NV, West Sussex & Hampshire, Alc 12% (£31.95£36.99, Berry Bros & Rudd/The Wine Society/Fortnum & Mason/Waitrose) Nyetimber Manor is mentioned in the Domesday Book, and a thousand years later it’s producing some of the world’s supreme sparkling wine. Nab this glorious, compelling, marketleading creamy English fizz made in the traditional method, which is reminiscent of buttered toast, warm croissant, almond paste, baked orchard fruits and citrus with an ethereal, long and crisp finish and lingering aftertaste. The result is a brilliantly fresh and appetising wine, the dosage spot on and the malo – others take note – a positive influence. The later disgorgement (around three years on lees) has added to a sparkling wine of great character. Both whistles and bells. It is stellar quality and sophisticated stuff that’d be happy with oysters, smoked salmon, scallops or sushi. Blowing apart the comfy world of bubbles in 1998, Nyetimber won the trophy for the ‘Best Sparkling Wine in the World’ with its Classic Cuvée 1993.
48
Life&Times
Advertorial
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Gardens firm promises to make
this summer another Corker Paddock Wood-based garden and landscape suppliers Corker Outdoor Living have some new trends to report, and plenty of new products to help make your garden an outdoor room this summer. Jerome Bowman catches up with the owners to find out more…
OPEN-AIR LIVING Create an outdoor living room in your own garden
Tell us about your business… Today, we like to think of ourselves as a cross between a builders’ merchant and a garden centre, catering for both tradesmen and retail customers. What makes us unique is that we sell such a wide range of products, including those for landscaping and creating gardens. People love to come to our yard and spend the day here just looking at the show gardens and choosing products from our range. Our show gardens are a real attraction for customers, showcasing what we do with the help of the local businesses to create incredible outdoor spaces. We want to grow not just our own brand but also the brands of the other businesses we work with so that we are stronger together. We always go out of our way for our customers to help them with whatever they need. I think this attitude is essential to the success of Corker. Offering a service from start to finish, we sell everything from the foundation materials to the furniture when the garden has been landscaped. People have really started to want to come to Corker, and they value it as a brand. Now we are in the midst of the hot weather, what are your top tips for making the perfect summer garden? In our opinion, the perfect garden will always have different zones for different activities. For example, a sun trap as well as plenty of shade, or an outdoor eating area and a children’s play area. It’s all about bringing the inside out. There are amazing outdoor products available now which can transform your garden instantly, so we would welcome people to come check out our displays. What are the current trends you are seeing in landscaping and garden design? Garden design is always evolving with superb new products coming into vogue all the time. We like to try and keep ahead of the trends and we are always looking at what’s new. Over the past two years, porcelain has
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
So what is Corker TV? Corker TV is a platform we created to allow customers to show off their finished garden. We’ll be shooting our own videos and content, filming clients and their plans for their gardens. We will then return and film the project halfway through, and again on completion. All these videos will be uploaded on to YouTube and our social Can you tell us about the media channels alongside new product ranges you our current films. have added recently? It’s great for us to hear the With our new range of ideas when they come into kitchen items available for the office, but to be able to our customers, they can add go and film throughout the value to a property and cook project, from the excavation outdoors this summer. to the finished garden, is We are also seeing more resin absolutely amazing. bonding in domestic gardens. It’s great for our social Resin bond can transform an media, the landscaper area instantly and we have a and designer carrying multitude of designs on show. out the work, and – most It is a is a very versatile importantly – the customer, product. You simply apply a who can now have their thin layer of resin to a suitably garden seen by thousands prepared substrate and then of other people. dress the wet film with a We feel we have a good selected aggregate, such as brand presence offline, but small gravel. Once cured, the it is more important than surface is swept, removing any ever to have a large internet excess aggregate, and leaving as well. a hard-wearing, textured, ‘Resin bond can transform footprint This will let tradesmen non-slip finish that has a high an area instantly, and we and our business grow resistance to weed ingress. have a multitude of designs’ together online. You can find all our videos What does the rest of the on our Youtube channel by year hold for Corker? searching the site for Corker UK, so please hit We are always looking to the future. We are passionate about our business and love bringing the subscribe button to keep up to date on all of our films! new ideas and products out that inspire people. The rest of 2019 will see us continue to push What other things are you planning boundaries, developing our show area and our to roll out in the future? innovative Corker TV. People enjoy coming for a whole day to our yard Next year will also see the launch of our new to see what we have, so we are also looking into e-commerce website, which will offer a fresh having a café for customers where they can eat, social platform for people to get inspired and drink and relax when they come here. purchase our products.
Advertorial
continued to be very much in demand. The outdoor cooking experience is also a huge trend this year, with a range of fantastic outdoor kitchens available, which is great because it shows how people are now starting to see their gardens as an extension of their homes. These are also available on view at our site.
Life&Times
49
THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL? Let’s hope so
CORKER OUTDOOR LIVING Westdene, Whetsted Road, Paddock Wood TN12 6SD Tel: 01892 833325 Web: corker.co.uk YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter: @CorkerUK
sun, shade and seating Create different zones in your garden
the al fresco attitude An outdoor kitchen can make summer cooking a breeze
50
Life&Times
Motoring
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Motoring News
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
This week… New e-scooter A super e-Porsche New look for Lotus
Lotus reveals its new rebrand logo
Porsche electrifies its Cayenne supercars with new V8 hybrid
The e-tron Scooter
Audi announces electric scooter despite UK ban on public use AUDI has revealed its latest interpretation of urban mobility designed for last-mile journeys in countries that allow electric scooters – the e-tron Scooter. In the UK, riding on an electric scooter on public roads or pavements is currently illegal. The only place they can be ridden is on private land, with the landowner’s permission. Weighing 26lb, and combining elements of both a scooter and a skateboard, the e-tron can be folded up to help with storage, but packs a range of 12.5 miles – more than enough for inner-city journeys. Flat-
out, it will do 12.5mph, too. The e-scooter is fitted with a hydraulic foot brake, and can be ridden one-handed, which allows the rider to freely look around and give hand signals. Audi also says it ‘stands out thanks to its handling’, adding that it is ‘like surfing waves’. The e-scooter comes fitted with an LED headlight and daytime running lights, as well as a rear light and brake light, and even has Bluetooth connectivity. Prices for the e-tron Scooter will start at ‘about 2,000 euros’ (circa £1,835) when it goes on sale late next year.
PORSCHE has introduced a highperformance plug-in hybrid version of the Cayenne supercar as it continues to expand its portfolio of electrified models. The Turbo S E-Hybrid will be offered on both SUV and Coupé body styles, combining a 4.0-litre petrol V8 engine with an electric motor to offer 671bhp and 900Nm of torque. Power is routed to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Both models have a top speed of 183mph and can sprint from 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds. Porsche claims 25 miles at speeds of up to 84mph can be covered on electric power, while economy is between 72 and 76mpg, with emissions of 85 to 90g/km of CO2.
The 14.1kWh battery pack is installed below the floor and can be recharged within six hours at a conventional 230-volt power output or 2.4 hours via a 7.2kW AC charger. Technical equipment included as standard includes an electric roll stabilisation system, ceramic brakes, 21-inch lightweight alloy wheels and air suspension. Optional extras include 22-inch alloy wheels and rear-wheel steering. Porsche has also added a less performance-focused hybrid to the Coupé range, which has a power output of 456bhp and 700Nm of torque. This powertrain has been reintroduced to the Cayenne SUV range with the addition of a petrol particulate filter in order to meet latest emissions regulations.
LOTUS has taken its ethos of ‘simplify and add lightness’ to a new level by introducing an overhauled logo. Changed distinctly for the first time since 1989, the Norfolk-based firm’s new logo takes the iconic 3D roundel that’s been in use for three decades and gives it a more simplified look. The 3D effect and silver accenting has been removed, with the logo now flat in its design – with British Racing Green on top of a yellow background. The ‘Lotus’ text has also seen a change in font while being spaced out further for a more distinctive look. One thing that does remain is the ‘ACBC’ symbol up top, a nod to company founder Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman. A simpler font is also used here. The badge is being rolled out instantly across the Lotus range, with the first all-new car to wear it likely to be the all-electric Evija hypercar, which is set to enter production next year. Simon Clare, Executive Director of Global Marketing at Lotus, said: “We’ve also straightened the word ‘Lotus’ so it’s consistent with the Lotus wordmark.”
52
Life&Times
Recruitment
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
WITH THE
FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
Fill your vacancy now in print or online
From just £99 For more information contact our commercial team on 01892 779650
CODEWORD 4
14
15
16
17
F
U
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
1
9 2 5
A B C D E F GH I J K L MNO P QR S T U VWX Y Z 10 11 19
25
16
25
1
6
6
25
11
24
18
16
11
5
22
6
6
4 11
11 25
12
12
6
4
F
4
F F
13
18
22
9
6
11
14 12
13
16
13
16
12
9 6
17
U
18
14
18
6 6
26
1 6
11
9
17 24
U
11
17
U
25
7 14
16
18
21
16
17
U
6
13
16
3
17
6
25
11
23
10
13
18
18
6
16
13
6 9 14 17
6
7
U
13
1
7
12
7
U
5
18
6
11
9 20
6
8
6 1 1 4 9 5 6
5 6
1
15 13
14
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 7 1 9 3
8
6
25
18 9
2
Codeword:
8 3
6 4 3 2
To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
6
13 25
2
8
14
6 11
25
11
18
7
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
3
DIFFICULTY RATING:★★✩✩
2
1
1 9 7
8
5 2 8 4 8
7 2 7
7
6
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
1
53
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
B V O RWE O N A C Q U C E P O R S L V I T O P Q U I T G O S L E U Y T
S L L E A I G C H S R M A C T H O
J A U R C H N T N T O X A N E H E R H F A I L U D U N D E R S O K C L E V K D
D I N N O N T U R N O V E R
Z E N R
Sudoku:
1 6 4 7 9 8 2 3 5
9 8 5 4 3 2 7 6 1
3 2 7 6 5 1 4 9 8
5 1 3 9 2 7 8 4 6
6 7 9 8 4 5 3 1 2
2 4 8 3 1 6 9 5 7
8 9 2 1 6 3 5 7 4
7 3 6 5 8 4 1 2 9
4 5 1 2 7 9 6 8 3
1 6 9 5 8 3 7 2 4
2 9 8 1 4 6 5 3 7
7 3 5 4 9 2 6 8 1
8 7 2 9 1 5 4 6 3
5 1 4 6 3 7 2 9 8
Jigsaw Sudoku:
9 5 6 3 7 8 1 4 2
3 8 1 2 5 4 9 7 6
4 2 7 8 6 1 3 5 9
6 4 3 7 2 9 8 1 5
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
54
Life&Times
Sport
FORsports EVENstories MORE to: NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Please send newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
Late salvo of sixes propels Cowdrey to crushing victory Cowdrey 280-5 beat Catford Wanderers 87 by 193 runs
boundaries and ensured there were wickets in hand for a final assault. Witht the score at 173 for 5, Cowdrey’s captain Ryan Addison and Stuart Clarke duly provided the momentum off the last ten overs The pair smashed the bowling to all parts of the ground in putting on an unbroken partnership of 107 for the sixth wicket. The fireworks really started in the last two overs, with 55 runs coming from them and eight sixes being scored off the last nine balls of the innings. Addison managed to hit five maximums of the last over, falling just short of the perfect six, and Cowdrey had amassed 280 for 5. Addison was unbeaten on 64 with seven sixes and a four, while Clarke contributed 51 not out with four sixes and four fours.
The home side made a terrible start to the imposing run-chase as fiery paceman Nick Farr (3 for 26) claimed two wickets in the first over. The high-quality attack continued with his opening partner Thom Brown producing an excellent spell of swing bowling. Then Jalill proved too good for the middle-order, running through the rest of the batting to finish with outstanding figures of 5 for 17. The Sri Lankan all-rounder was rewarded with his club cap, which is awarded for five-wicket hauls or hundreds in the league format. It was Jalill who took the final wicket as Wanderers were all out for 87 in 27.5 overs, losing by 193 runs, and Cowdrey leapfrogged them to sixth place in Kent League Division Three. Cowdrey now travel to relegation candidates Catford Cyphers on Saturday [August 24].
Well-drilled Angels find their feet after leaders miss penalty
Wells succumb to lethal spell from MacVicar
CRICKET COWDREY kept up their powerful sequence of victories with a win at Catford Wanderers thanks to a remarkable assault on the bowlers at the end of their innings. Overnight rain had seeped under the covers and Catford skipper Shavawn Cunningham asked Cowdrey to bat first after winning the toss. Barney Scott (31) and Minhaj Jalill (36) got the Tonbridge side off to a solid start with both openers keeping out a fiery opening spell in a stand of 64. After their departure Jason Carver and Jake McGroarty (25) took up the mantle, running exceptionally well between the wicket. Carver scored a workmanlike 53 with five
POSITIVE SPIN: Minhaj Jalill receives his cap from director of cricket Gary Marshall
Bath City 0 Tonbridge Angels 0 By Jim Rowe
Mistaken Myles Roberts, deputising in goal for Jonny Henly, was brought into the action in the first minute, diving low to his left to deny Ross Stearn. It was not until the 22nd minute that the home side had another opportunity, but Roberts was again equal to the task. Tonbridge ended the first half on the front foot with D’Sean Theobalds firing over the bar and Joe Turner shooting narrowly wide of the right-hand post. The second half started slowly with neither side registering a meaningful effort. On 63 minutes Stearn struck a volley but Roberts saved it comfortably. Two minutes later, Tom Derry was sent clear
By Alan Cutts
PHOTO: David Couldridge
FOOTBALL TONBRIDGE ANGELS followed up
their first win of the season in National League South with a hard-earned point against the league leaders, Bath City, at Twerton Park. During midweek the Angels had secured their first points of the season after being promoted with a 1-0 win at home to Concord Rangers of Canvey Island. The winner came in the 89th minute from an unlikely source , when left-back Jack Parter met Joe Turner’s cross with a header into the net. The return of Sonny Miles in central defence helped to secure a clean sheet against a side that had won their first three games.
Tunbridge Wells 166 lost to Beckenham 171-6 by 4 wkts
UP FOR THE CHALLENGE Tom Derry jumps with Bath keeper Ryan Clarke
inches and at the other end some desperate defending saw the Angels see the ball to safety. Angels survived another decent penalty appeal late on, and emerged with a point from a well drilled performance. Manager Steve McKimm said: “Nil-Nil sounds boring but that was an exciting game. That had everything, there should have been a sendingoff, they got a penalty which shouldn’t have been, they didn’t get a penalty they should have. Bodies on the line, we gave everything.” Tonbridge now take on Havant & Waterlooville at home on Saturday [August 24, kick-off 3pm].
and was cynically taken out to earn one of the Bath players, Harvey Smith, a yellow card. But Smith, who was already on a booking, had departed the scene and in a clear case of mistaken identity the card was brandished at one of his team mates, Alex Hartridge. After 71 minutes, following a free kick into the box, Rhian Bray was controversially adjudged to have manhandled an opponent. The referee pointed to the spot but a sigh of relief went through the crowd of 476 as Tyler Harvey blazed the penalty high over the bar. With ten minutes remaining Turner missed by
Rusthall 6 Lydd Town 0 By Dean Jacquin FOOTBALL THE Rustics went goal crazy against Lydd Town at Jockey Farm Stadium to kickstart their league campaign in Southern Counties East League Division One. It was an emphatic statement to make, having exited the FA Cup the previous weekend and drawn their first league match of the season. The visitors started quite brightly and had a couple of early chances. But once Brad Large cut inside from the left and fired a shot into the net right-footed in the 12th minute, the flood gates opened for Rusthall. . Two minutes later Luke Adams made it 2-0 with a delightful long-range lob over the goalkeeper and covering defender.
And two minutes after that, Louis Clarke effectively sealed the contest by scoring off the underside of the crossbar from outside the box. With 23 minutes gone, Reuel Powell-Downey made it 4-0, sliding the ball past the keeper in clinical fashion. Lydd huffed and puffed in the second half but Rusthall’s back line were rarely troubled, and the home side continued to create opportunities. Eight minutes into the second half Stephen Camacho was next to get on the scoresheet, cutting inside and also fired in a shot off the underside of the bar. With 15 minutes remaining Powell-Downey scored his second to round off the goal spree after good work from debutant Ben Boodle. Rusthall’s next game is at home to SC Thamesmead on Bank Holiday Monday [August 26, kick-off 3pm].
PHOTO: Dean Jacquin
Six of the best to get Rusthall up and running
QUICK START: Tommy Lawrence (right) congratulates Luke Adams on his goal
CRICKET IT WAS first versus second as Tunbridge Wells travelled to Beckenham, who were top of the Kent League Premier Division – and they brought the visitors’ impressive form to an end. The visitors arrived at Foxgrove without their in-form captain Chris Williams and also allrounder Marcus O’Riordan, who has been handed a professional contract by Kent. Home skipper Alex Senn won the toss and inserted Wells, who were soon in deep trouble on a track with a green tinge after several days of heavy rain. A deadly spell from William MacVicar threatened to end the contest early as he snapped up three top-order wickets at no cost from 20 deliveries. The score tottered to a moribund 24 for 4, MacVicar enjoying his purple patch between the end of his fourth over and start of his seventh. Julian O’Riordan, Marcus’s younger brother, was joined by Alex Williams together, and a fighting fifth-wicket stand of 39 promised a recovery.
Tricky Then the home attack struck again, but another partnership developed as Williams was joined by the resolute and reliable Ian McLean (23). The hundred came up in the 35th over, but Beckenham spun their way back into the contest as three wickets fell to reduce Wells to 118 for 8. Williams then decided to accelerate and struck three fours and four sixes on his way to a powerful 68 off 93 balls. He was last man out at 166, dismissed by the returning MacVicar (4 for 18), having added a vital 37 with Ari Karvelas. Beckenham had at least been set a tricky target to chase, and Dave Smith (2 for 23) and Matt Barker (2-30) reduced the hosts to 95 for 5 after 32 overs – Barker repeating his first-ball wicket-taking feat of the previous match. That left the game hanging in the balance, although once again a surfeit of extras – 45 in total – did not help the visitors’ cause in a low-scoring contest. The match hinged on the stand of 71 between Kent’s Alex Blake (43) and Ross Piller (35 not out) and the target was reached in style at 171 for 6 with a maximum from Piller. Beckenham duly consolidated their hold on top spot while Wells slipped back to joint third place, with their title pretensions slipping away. With three games remaining, Tunbridge Wells now entertain HSBC on Saturday [August 24].
Wednesday August 21 | 2019
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Sport
Life&Times
55
Tigers are burning bright for Euros Roll up to try
bowls at Angel open weekend
By Andy Tong GYMNASTICS FOUR members of the Tigers Gymnastics Club have been selected to represent Great Britain for the first time. Twelve-year-old Bea Henderson has been picked for the European Championships for Acrobatic Gymnastics in Holon, Israel in October. She will be performing in the 12-18 Mixed Pair category with club mate Hector Kinghorn. Fellow Tigers Olivia Hossenboccus, 17, Amy Rowe, 14, and Fran Arnell, 12, will also be earning their national stripes when they take part in the 12-18 Women’s Group. The club, based at the Jump-In Trampoline Park on Morley Road, has a remarkable pedigree on the international stage it opened in Tonbridge three years ago. Hector, 15, has already won a European title with Sam Large in 2015. He also took home a silver medal from the World Championships a year later. And Sam was crowned world champion with Sammi Nassman last year.
Overcome Chris Rogers, director at Tigers in Tonbridge, said: “Our gymnasts are understandably overcome with happiness. “It was a pleasure as their coach to be able to deliver the news myself and perhaps one of the highlights of my career thus far, given the hard work from the gymnasts and the team at Tigers.” He added: “All of them have been at Tigers from when we started in July 2016 with the exception of Fran, who joined us in 2017. “This is the beginning of many great things to come from Tigers, we continue to go from strength to strength.” “Last year when we created the men’s pair world champions, we felt it important for the
SHAPING UP Olivia Hossenboccus, Amy Rowe and Fran Arnell next stage to be making it possible for more of our gymnasts to reach that level.” At the British Championships in Liverpool last month the Tigers team had already produced a ‘landmark achievement’. Hector and Bea faced tough competition against the world champions from Wakefield but managed to finish in second place. Olivia, Amy and Fran also came second in the womens’ competition, only missing out on the title due to a height penalty.
Young Rustics show skills on big stage NAME UP IN LIGHTS Rusthall Under-10s enjoy their competition in York
FOOTBALL RUSTHALL’S Under-10s came up against junior sides from a range of professional clubs when they took part in IDA International Cup in York. Among the other competing teams were age group squads from the Premier League’s Manchester City and Burnley. Managed by Scott Dean and Stuart Hodges, the
young Rustics came an impressive sixth overall out of 32 teams. They were knocked out by Sunderland in the quarter-finals, by a single goal. Scott said: “Thank you to all the parents who have come up and made it a brilliant weekend, and the boys who have behaved so well throughout and represented Rusthall FC in a professional manner. Well done boys!”
Wells prepare to take on Belgians RUGBY TUNBRIDGE WELLS’ build-up to the new season in the London and South East Premier League features an unusual friendly against a Belgian side at St Marks on Saturday [August 24, kick-off 3pm]. RC Soignies arrive from a town in the Hainaut
region. They compete in the Belgian Elite League, and finished as runners-up last season. It promises to be a test for Wells as the standard they play at can be measured by the fact that the club had three players representing Belgium in their last international against Romania.
Chris said: “They have had a very steep uphill journey against a very high number of amazing women’s groups from across the UK, improving vastly over the last few months.” The gymnasts train for 14 hours per week and their attention to detail is painstaking. “It’s difficult to say how long it takes to get the routine perfect as we are always striving for making improvements,” said Chris. “But what I can say is we have made unbelievable progress in the last year.”
BOWLS ANGEL Indoor Bowls Club in Tonbridge is holding an open weekend on September 7-8 and is inviting the public to try this inclusive sport. Indoor bowls is a vibrant, up-and-coming sport which is being taken up by younger people. The age of members ranges from eight to over 90, both male and female. There are leagues involving men’s, women’s and mixed teams. Centre manager Mark Hutcheon said: “I’ve never known a sport like it that allows all abilities and ages to play together. “The Angel is a warm and hospitable club, there’s always somebody to chat to. “Why not come in and have a go, talk to us about membership and see if it might suit you? There is an active social club with regular entertainment, quiz nights and a cribbage group. With bar and restaurant facilities, the club’s central location behind Sainsbury’s in Avenue du Puy make it an ideal meeting pl. The annual open weekend runs on Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8 from 11am to 5pm. Details can be found angelibc.co.uk
THINK RINK: Members as young as eight take part