Times of Tunbridge Wells 5th September 2018

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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More big brands are leaving as the face of the town starts to change

ADEPT BUY OUT RIVAL Telecoms company just continues to grow Page 12

By Adam Hignett FASHION retailer New Look has announced it will cease trading in its Calverley Road premises by the end of today [September 5]. They will be followed four days later by Crew Clothing on the High Street.

The news comes just one week since the quintessential Middle England clothing and homeware retailer Cath Kidston decided to leave the Royal Victoria Place [RVP] shopping centre.

FOCUS ON EDUCATION Sixteen pages to help choose your child’s school Page 21

Dismay Shoppers had already reacted with dismay at the loss of Cath Kidston and the new departures will add to fears that Tunbridge Wells is heading into a cycle of decline, an impression the borough council has moved quickly to correct.

Cllr Tracy Moore, Economic Development & Communication portfolio holder, said yesterday [Tuesday]: “Retail organisations are finding the economic climate challenging and as a result the retail face of town centres is changing, and this isn’t unique to Royal Tunbridge Wells.

“Studies show that town centres are becoming different places, they’re no longer just about shopping, leisure and culture are increasingly important.

“The council is very mindful of all this. By investing in culture, through the Amelia Scott [cultural hub] and the Calverley Square projects, and supporting RTWT’s [Royal Tunbridge Wells Together] proposal for a

Continued on Page 4

BORDER LINE: The remain supporting TW-IN group have produced a Tunbridge Wells passport in a call for a ‘people’s vote’ P5

Confusion after council leader backs a U-turn on 11 plus exam

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk PRIMARY schools might soon be able to coach pupils towards passing the 11 plus exam after an apparent shift in policy at County Hall.

Kent County Council [KCC] Leader Paul Carter has indicated he would support such a move.

The Conservative member has spoken about reversing the policy that prevents primaries tutoring Year 6 students towards the exams – which pupils need to pass to enter a grammar school.

KCC administers the tests and Cllr Roger Gough, its lead on education, has previously stated coaching was ‘not an appropriate approach’ towards the test.

KCC does not define coaching but has said using past papers for children to practise question styles would break guidelines.

‘I think all schools should be helping and supporting those who have the ability to get into grammar schools’ Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter Cllr Carter spoke out about levelling the playing field after BBC South East found nine out of ten fee-paying primary schools they investigated tutored pupils.

He told reporters: “Why shouldn’t state schools, as well as private schools, be able to coach?”

Cllr Carter added: “I think all schools

should be helping and supporting those who have the ability to get into grammar schools. I think state schools should do all they can to help and support them towards the 11 plus, as well as the private schools.

“Why shouldn’t local schools help and support their pupils towards the 11 plus?”

His statement appeared to be an offthe-cuff response to questions and took others at County Hall by surprise.

There was some suggestion that it was more of a personal statement than the announcement of change of policy.

Any change would have to be agreed by the whole council, which is dominated by the Conservatives.

Continued on Page 4

THE FOOD MONTH

The Pantiles festival kicks off foodie celebrations Page 8

WELLS’ FLYING START Character shines through in opening match Page 78

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‘Opportunities should be equal’ Continued from page 1 The county council told the Times yesterday [Tuesday] there was currently no official statement or announcement about a change in policy.

Cllr Carter’s broadcast was the first time a member of the authority has suggested the ban could be lifted.

In a subsequent interview, Cllr Gough appeared to tone down his colleague’s stance.

He said: “We are certainly going to look at all aspects of this. I don’t think at this stage we are saying anything will definitely change. We need to review where we are with all this.

Definitions “We need to ensure children have good access to familiarisation. It’s not the same as coaching.”

The councillor spoke of a difference between schools being able to ‘prep’ students, versus the ability to ‘coach’ them and that new definitions could be introduced.

KCC has yet to confirm when a new policy about the 11 plus regulations might be decided.

Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “It is very important that children in selective areas have, as far as possible, an equal opportunity to access grammar schools based on ability rather than family income.

“We would expect local policies to reflect that principle and to be consistently applied by all concerned. We are opposed to the further extension of selection, not least because of the difficulty in creating a genuinely level playing field in terms of access. We would also emphasise the fact that there are many excellent non-selective schools in all areas of the country.”

‘Beauty Bank’ set up to help schoolchildren with hygiene

By Andy Tong A NOT-for-profit organisation is look for volunteers for a ‘beauty bank’ to help lowincome families have access to basic toiletries and combat ‘hygiene poverty’.

Mother-of-two Lizzy Hall launched the initiative, which is aimed at supporting schoolchildren, last month and has seen it grow very quickly.

The concept is similar to foodbanks, and Mrs Hall says she set up Beauty Bank Kent ‘because being clean isn’t a privilege, because girls shouldn’t miss school when they have their period and they can’t afford sanitary wear, because looking good makes us feel better, because being clean makes us more employable’.

She told the Times: “I asked foodbanks like Nourish [which serves Tunbridge Wells and south Tonbridge] if they were given toiletries.

“They did, but only in dribs and drabs – and

PHOTO: BBC South East

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they go out very quickly. So I sent a Whatsapp plea to my friends and it went viral, it grew very quickly.”

There are already four locations in Tonbridge and six in Sevenoaks, and Mrs Hall is now looking for support in Tunbridge Wells.

She is urgently looking to create more drop-offs and recruit volunteers to help with collections.

The charity In Kind Direct has published statistics this summer which showed that one in three teachers nationwide are providing pupils with basic hygiene products such as toothpaste and soap.

Eight out of 10 primary school teachers said they had seen a rise in the number of children coming to school unwashed or not looking presentable in the last five years.

Almost one in five [18 per cent] say they have to intervene every week.

“With little money to cover the cost of everyday essentials, some families are being forced to choose between buying food or buying personal

Centre not out of fashion despite closure A spokesperson for the rapidly growing company explained: “Our Tunbridge Wells pop-up store in Royal Victoria Place was always planned to be open for one year and our lease has now ended.

“Although we have enjoyed our time in the shopping centre, we are not currently looking to open a permanent store in Tunbridge Wells.”

RVP changed owners earlier this year from Hermes to developer British Land, who took it on in a deal worth £96million.

A spokesman from British Land said: “We are still very excited about the opportunity and are feeling positive about the town.”

Continued from page 1

SPEAKING OUT Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Business Improvement District, this Council is being proactive to help ensure we remain a vibrant, destination town.

“And, we shouldn’t forget that together with the private sector, there is around half a billion pounds being invested in our town over the next few years. These investments are a declaration of confidence in the future of Royal Tunbridge Wells.”

A spokesperson for New Look told the Times: “I can confirm Tunbridge Wells, Calverley Road store is surrendering on September 14, last day of trade is September 5.”

A member of staff at Crew Clothing confirmed the date of closure for the High Street shop will be September 9.

However, despite customers being given just a few days’ notice of the closure, it appears the writing was on the wall for Cath Kidston a year ago.

It has also emerged it has no plans of coming back. Cath Kidston’s decision to vacate its High Street premises and instead relocate to the RVP was in fact part of an ongoing disengagement from the town.

CHANGING FACE OF TOWN MAJOR projects in Tunbridge Wells will give the town centre a very different look.

Royal Victoria Place shopping centre has recently been bought by British Land. The developer is understood to be pursuing plans for a £70million expansion, to see more shops and a cinema built along Calverley Road.

Another project moving forward is the £13.2million Amelia Scott Cultural and Learning Hub, to see a new-look library and museum incorporated into a hub; it will also contain tourist information and a gallery.

The Mount Pleasant former ABC cinema site is also in line for development. The Belvedere, an £80million project, will contain at least 99 homes and a boutique Everyman cinema.

And then there is Calverley Square, the £90million theatre and council office development [see page 5 for more].

ON THE BOX Lizzy Hall needs your help

hygiene items,” said Mrs Hall.

“Beauty Bank provides families living in need with toiletries that most of us take for granted, by encouraging the local community to donate.”

If you would like to get involved call 07816 659 055 or email lizzy@beautybank-kent.com

‘Good value’ £52 charge for bin collection approved by Cabinet

By William Mata CONSERVATIVE councillors hailed their plan to charge £52 for garden waste collection as ‘good value’ following negative reactions.

The ruling Tory group of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council rubber stamped their Household Recycling, Waste Collection and Street Cleansing proposal in a Cabinet meeting last week.

From March 30 next year, this will see a kerbside collection for glass and a separate weekly collection for food waste.

More contentiously, it will also see householders opt in for a £52-a-year scheme for garden waste to be collected. A new bin will be included within the fee.

After a multi-party cabinet advisory board passed the motion it seemed inevitable the Cabinet would follow suit. And Conservative leaders took the opportunity to praise the scheme, previously criticised by Labour, Liberal Democrat and Tunbridge Wells Alliance opponents as a ‘stealth tax’.

Cllr Ronen Basu, portfolio holder for sustainability, said: “This helps people who have a garden and spares people who do not, as they will not have to pay for something they don’t need. It is a justified way of charging.”

His colleague Cllr Tracy Moore said: “The collection is £1 a week. If you think about it, it costs 98p to post a large letter or £1.10 a week to buy the Courier newspaper. So £1 a week does represent good value for our residents.”

STORES ARE CLOSING AND SHOPPERS ARE WORRIED BUT THERE’S NO NEED TO PANIC THREE big-name brands are on their way out of Tunbridge Wells. Crew Clothing on the High Street is closing along with New Look in Calverley Road and Cath Kidston that operated out of Royal Victoria Place.

The news has prompted the doom mongers to take to social media suggesting Tunbridge Wells is ‘finished’ with one commenting: “Every time I come into town; another shop has gone. Not much point in coming into T Wells anymore.”

One can understand their frustration but let’s keep it in perspective. Every high street in the country is seeing stores close – it’s not just us.

Fashion retailer New Look is suffering at all its shops nationwide and it has two in Tunbridge Wells. The one on the industrial estate remains open; it probably has lower overheads than the town centre premises.

Crew Clothing is likely planning to sell more

product online, although quite why Cath Kidston is leaving remains something of a mystery.

What we have to remember is that the face of Tunbridge Wells is changing and for the better.

Tens of millions of pounds are about to be spent on the transition.

There’s the development of the old cinema site, the creation of a new cultural hub, the civic complex and theatre and the takeover of Royal Victoria Place by British Land. All exciting projects that will breathe new life into the town centre. But it takes time.

If we did not have these projects in the pipeline then residents would be fully justified in demanding action from the borough council.

On this occasion, though, the Town Hall appears ahead of the curve and will hopefully deliver that which is promised.

All the same it might be nice to hear a bit more

from British Land. They took over Royal Victoria Place in May and since then have pretty much said nothing of relevance.

They might be one of the UK’s biggest retail landlords and Tunbridge Wells might be a mere blip on their radar but a few words on the timeframe of where the shopping centre is heading would be reassuring.

We have seen so many false dawns in this town – take the cinema site – that we have become a shade cynical.

Hopefully it’s not indicative of their approach to Tunbridge Wells, but British Land have managed to get the name of the shopping centre wrong. Their website lists it as Royal Victoria Parade. Not a good sign...

Editorial Director, Richard Moore

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Plan for development of 36 homes in town CRANBROOK will see an additional 36 homes built, if recently submitted plans are given the green light.

Developer Berkeley Group has applied to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to build on Turnden, Harley Road.

Few details have been revealed by Berkeley Group as to the type of property to be built. The application follows the demolition of two separate apartments.

Roadworks completed TWO sets of road works, which caused long delays through Tunbridge Wells town centre over summer, have been completed.

Kent Highways has now finished working on Vale Road [where one lane was closed] and Nevill Street [closed completely].

They were finished by yesterday [Tuesday] in time for the start of the new school term.

Both jobs took several weeks and led to reports of motorists experiencing delays.

Celebration of the arts THE upcoming Heritage Weekend will be marked at St Peter & St Paul’s Church in Church Lane, Tonbridge, with A Celebration of Flowers, Art and Creativity.

Displays inside and around the church will be presented, as well as creative activity for children on Friday and Saturday [September 7-8] from 10am to 4pm, and on Sunday from 11am to 4pm.

Historical displays inside St Andrew’s Church in Hadlow Road, Tonbridge, can be viewed from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and on Sunday from 1pm to 2pm.

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Council told to face the music with Fame far from selling out

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk LESS than half of all tickets were sold for The Assembly Hall’s summer show Fame: The Musical.

The high number of empty seats for the show, which ran over six days in August, prompted critics to voice concern about the council’s plan to build a larger theatre.

But Town Hall has responded to say that one show’s ticket sales should not be taken in isolation.

The 80s film and TV series adaptation was one of its flagship productions this summer and was backed by a large publicity campaign. But for some performances more than 400 seats were empty, despite numerous pairs of tickets being won in competitions.

This has fuelled the argument of opponents to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s [TWBC] £90million Calverley Square, which would include a 1,200-seat theatre.

The authority said its early calculations estimate 49 per cent of tickets were sold for Fame, which was ‘above the target set in [its] business plan’.

Bob Atwood, Chairman of the Tunbridge Wells Alliance political party, formed primarily in opposition to

Calverley Square, said: “I don’t know how TWBC arrived at their business plan figure, it seems strange they would target less than half the total ticket sales. That can’t be viable moving forward.

“I would express caution about judging anything that took place in August as residents are away for the holiday.

“Having said that, I would be quite worried about these figures, especially looking forward to the 1,200seat theatre which I should think would need to be at least 80 per cent full to break even.”

Planning permission has now been granted for Calverley Square, which would also house council offices when it opens on land next to Calverley Grounds when it opens in 2022.

Subsidies TWBC is pinning its hopes on the theatre proving a financial success.

Their business plan states the theatre is likely to require subsidies until it achieves annual sales of towards 400,000. Consultant Bonnar Keenlyside stated in the report this may take seven or eight years to attain.

The Assembly Hall’s annual number of ticket sales is around 130,000.

Mr Atwood added: “I think [the jump from 130,000 annual tickets

ALL SONG AND DANCE Musicals could account for 40-45 per cent of performances at The Calverley Square theatre

sold to 400,000] is highly unlikely.”

Alliance Cllr Nick Pope added: “I am unable to see how the 1,200-seat theatre in Tunbridge Wells will ever be financially viable. Regular theatre goers will continue to go to London, where there is so much choice within easy reach.”

A spokesperson for TWBC said: “Ticket sales at the theatre are doing well. The business plan for the Assembly Hall Theatre includes short-term targets while the theatre is on the current site and looks ahead to a new theatre on the Calverley Square development.

“Theatre attendance for last year,

2017/18, exceeded the target for 2020/21 and box office revenue was more than £100,000 over budget. If this growth continues the future of the new theatre looks very promising.

“Looking at one show in isolation doesn’t give this bigger picture, nor does it recognise that the new theatre is expected to have a very different offering to the Assembly Hall.

“Final ticket sales for Fame are still being calculated but initial information shows that attendance is over 49 per cent, which again is above the target set in the business plan.”

Remainers create passports for Tunbridge Wells PRO-EU campaigners are handing out Tunbridge Wells passports to champion ‘freedom of movement’.

The newly formed TW-IN group has already distributed more than 400 of the booklets, which state ‘even Tonbridge residents’ can enter the town. Tunbridge Wells is the only constituency in Kent to have voted Remain in the 2016 referendum.

Group Chairman Seb St John started the quirky protest as part of a call for a second referendum on Britain’s final deal in leaving the European Union.

The former Labour Party council candidate joined members of the Liberal Democrats and Tunbridge Wells Alliance, and other non-party political campaigners, in handing out the specially made passports outside Calverley Grounds.

“Tunbridge Wells is a constituency that voted Remain and we seem to be drifting towards deals, which clearly don’t deliver the promises of the referendum we did not agree on,” said Mr St John, whose wife Ruth set up TW-IN in July.

“The referendum was a vote on something intangible, with a lot of

ALL SHALL PASS Ruth and Seb St John with their Tunbridge Wells passports

promises of riches which are now clear to see as undeliverable.

“Therefore we think the government should complete their negotiations and then allow the people to decide if this was what they actually want.”

The passports were given out as a

‘tongue in cheek’ idea ahead of a march in London on October 20 in support of a people’s vote.

The maroon-coloured booklets are titled ‘European Union Spa State of Royal Tunbridge Wells’.

Inside are passport style pages with

faded pictures of town landmarks. A message on the back cover reads: “We promise to abide by and promote the universal values upon which the EU is based.

“We will also consider applications from Tonbridge, as it must be hard living in an area that voted leave.”

Passports were given away for free but can also be obtained on the TW-IN website for a donation. It costs the group £100 to produce 55 passports, and the costs were covered by donations from members.

Mr St John said 13,000 people on social media saw the passports being given away in Tunbridge Wells outside Calverley Grounds.

Asked if the attempt was too little, too late with Britain poised to leave the EU in March, he said: “We shall see. There has been a lot of anger from some people, but most have been really supportive.

“It says something that our own government is our best campaigning tool and even lots of leavers disagree with them.”

To view the passports, visit tw-in.co.uk

WHAT THE PASSPORT STATES: We affirm our allegiance to the European Union as the sole electoral area in Kent to vote to remain. We promise to abide by and promote the universal values upon which the EU is based such as, compassion endeavour, ingenuity, altruism, diligence, daring and peace loving commitment to the dignity of sentient beings.

We will also consider applications from Tonbridge, as it must be hard living in an area that voted leave. It’s a great place, so we’re happy to be open to residents of Tonbridge. We appreciate it has [a] Castle and a bigger parkrun but it’s still not Tunbridge Wells.

We pledge to maintain our citizenship of the European Union for us and the future generations that come after us.

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Revised exams may have been harder to pass THE county council’s education lead Cllr Roger Gough said modifications to this year’s GCSEs and A levels may have made them harder.

Students collected their results last month and, although it is too early to rank schools based on performance, some headteachers reported a slight dip in grades.

Cllr Gough told the Times: “Overall, with both GCSEs and post-16 qualifications, the performance in Kent appears to have been steady in spite of changes to the qualifications, which may have made them a bit harder.

“We don’t have comprehensive information at this stage but certainly, in terms of Attainment 8 and the pass rate for the English Baccalaureate, it looks to be steady, and in many cases schools have demonstrated an improvement.”

The Conservative visited Bennett Memorial Diocesan School in Tunbridge Wells on GCSE results day. He continued: “Bennett has always had strong results but it seems to have done particularly well this year, especially in terms of Progress 8.”

HEAD START: Cllr Roger Gough with Jon Sparke, Headteacher of Bennett Memorial School

feasibility of the site within the Recreation Ground with a view to getting a concept design done.”

The project ties into the 250-home Hawkenbury Farm project with developer Berkeley Group legally required to make financial contributions to improve community areas.

The Village Association is in talks with pump track builders Velosolutions – who could construct the facility on the old bowling green, which is currently unused.

‘The wider community has been very supportive to plans first reported by the Times last year’ LET’S RIDE A pump track like this could come to Hawkenbury

Village getting pumped up as bike track plan takes off

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk CYCLISTS are a stage nearer to enjoying a ‘pump track’ in Hawkenbury Recreation Ground after an early meeting proved successful.

Last week, members of Hawkenbury Village Association met councillors to discuss the feasibility of building the undulating course on land next to artificial pitches.

Proponents hope the facility will provide a space for teenagers to exercise and have fun, which could discourage antisocial behaviour.

Initial estimates suggest the course would cost between £55,000 and £109,000 [with £60,000 being the most likely figure] and open in late 2019.

Dean Kenward, Chairman of Hawkenbury Village Association, said: “The meeting assessed the

PURPOSE Association Chairman Dean Kenward on land where a track could be built

Pump tracks have proved popular in other towns. Hawkenbury’s could be used by all ages but would be aimed at those aged 11 to 18.

Mr Kenward continued: “The wider community has been very supportive [to plans first reported by the Times last year].

“The only comments against have come from neighbours who feel the track might overlook their gardens.”

He added: “It will serve a purpose and not impact on the park’s other uses. A pump track has been built in Glasgow and there was a drop in antisocial behaviour as it kept users engaged in activities.”

The Village Association will now look to create a concept design, along with associated drawings and photographs.

Further consultations would be held with the public ahead of more advanced plans being drawn up and a planning application being submitted.

The Park ward representative, Cllr Tracy Moore, said on Twitter: “We will gather the views of the community. First it makes sense to get a concept to design and consult on.

“Changes coming to Hawkenbury include expansion to playing pitches and wider paths.

Maybe a pump track is possible too. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council will consult.”

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Thousands enjoy last of summer’s sunshine in fun community events Food Month also takes in: n The town Farmers’ Market on Saturday, September 8 and Saturday, September 22, n Tunbridge Wells Beer Weekend, across the town from Thursday, September 13 to Sunday, September 16, and, n The Royal Tunbridge Wells Food and Drink Festival in Calverley Grounds on Saturday, September 22 and Sunday, September 23.

For more information, see visittunbridgewells.com

Dragon Boat Festival at Bewl Water

HAPPY EATERS: The Pantiles Food Festival has attracted thousands into town on previous occasions

By William Mata and Adam Hignett will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk WARM September weather is drawing thousands to end of summer events in Tunbridge Wells, the latest of which is Food Month.

The Pantiles Food Festival this Friday, Saturday and Sunday [September 7, 8 and 9] kicks off four weekends’-worth of events around town, and follows The Pantiles Gin & Jazz Festival.

There is also the 21st annual Dragon Boat Festival at Bewl Water this Saturday, which is expected to raise more than £100,000 for charities.

Royal Tunbridge Wells Food Month TWO festivals in three weeks will be held in September to mark Food Month in Tunbridge Wells.

West Kent’s arable land has led to the region historically playing a large role in UK food

production with its fertile farms and orchards.

More recently Tunbridge Wells has become known for its independent restaurants and highly skilled chefs.

Food Month seeks to pay homage to this and it kicks off with The Pantiles Food Festival, which has now been running for six years.

Organiser Julian Leefe-Griffiths, who is also Managing Director of the Tunbridge Wells Hotel, said: “We have got some great weather forecast, and we have stallholders selling everything from bread and cheese to wine and gin.

“We are expecting to get around 3,000 to 5,000 people, hopefully more if the weather is good.”

There will also be cookery demonstrations from chefs including Will Devlin, of The Small Holding in Kilndown and Patrick Hill from Thackerays in Tunbridge Wells.

Trading will be held on Friday from 12pm to 5pm, Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

ORGANISED by the Funraisers, the 21st annual Dragon Boat Festival will again be hosted at Bewl Water to raise money for charity.

Last year saw £107,000 generated and distributed to 50 worthy causes. Since the event started in 1998, more than £2.7million has been raised in total. Taking place this Saturday, the first race of the day commences at 10am with the last at 4pm with the ten-boat grand final.

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Teams of 16 paddlers set out on the water in Chinese-style Dragon Boats for the 250m course.

All abilities are welcome to participate, you do not have to be skilled- it is all about teamwork and having fun whilst raising money for charity.

For more information, visit bewlwater.co.uk

Gin & Jazz Festival on The Pantiles THE Pantiles has already hosted one large event this month, with around 4,000 enjoying the Gin & Jazz Festival last weekend.

After the first edition proved successful in June, this second running also drew a crowd with 36 drink producers showing off their brands, including one from Peru, another from Denmark and one from Japan.

Julian Leefe-Griffiths also organised this festival alongside colleague and Jazz on The Pantiles collaborator Lionel Shell.

“We will definitely do it again next year,” said Mr Leefe-Griffiths. “We would also like to do a Brazilian rum festival next July.

“At The Pantiles, we have got good numbers and the running of events like these has been smooth because of the fantastic support from businesses.“I hope the town sees the change on The Pantiles and how it can be a social and entertainment destination. I am so proud of everything we have achieved.”

I’LL HAVE ANOTHER: Pipehouse Gin at The Pantiles Gin & Jazz Festival, which returned last weekend

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

OAR-SOME ACHIEVEMENT: Rowers dig in at Bewl Water Dragon Boat Festival, which returns on Saturday

FOOD MONTH 2018 DATE WHAT 31- August Spa Valley Gin Express 1-2 September Gin & Jazz Festival 8 Sept, 12-5pm Meet the Maker 8 Sept, 11am-1pm Introduction to Foraging Walk 8 Sept, 3-5pm Introduction to Foraging Walk 8-9 September The Pantiles Food Festival 12 Sept, 5.30-7pm BBQ Workshop 13-16 September Tunbridge Wells Beer Weekend 22-23 September Calverley Grounds Food Festival 23-September The Art of Afternoon Drinking (Wine)

With The Bottle Bitches 28 Sept, from 6pm Special Menu Dining Experience TBC Open Day Throughout Sept Train to be a Community Chef Course

Throughout Sept Prosecco Promotion

LOCATION Spa Valley Railway The Pantiles Fuggles Beer Cafe, Tunbridge Wells The Commons The Commons The Pantiles Marlowe’s Burger Bar Various Calverley Grounds TBC One Warwick Park Rosemary Schrager’s Cookery School Email Carol.Francis@tchg.org.uk for details Giggling Squid

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Tree of Hope’s golf day at Knole Park helps to raise £2,000

Artist They received a trophy and a limited-edition print of Knole Park golf course painted by Graeme Lothian, a former paratrooper and war artist from Tunbridge Wells who was shot by a Taliban sniper in Afghanistan.

Mark Till of P2 consulting won the putting competition, Dan Batchelor from the TSP team won the longest drive, and Mark Connelly of the P2 team was nearest the pin.

The Tonbridge charity offers help and support to families of sick and disabled children in the UK who need specialist surgery, treatment and therapy that is not freely available through the UK healthcare system.

Gill Gibb, Tree of Hope’s Chief Executive, said: “I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part in our annual golf day and made it such a success.

“It was a fabulous day and everyone was in high spirits. There was some great golf played and there were some fabulous prizes, including a silent auction which raised £2,000 for the charity.”

GREEN FIGURES: The golf day winners, Neptune, with Tree of Hope’s Fundraising Manager, Kate Bourne

Young stroke survivors find support to pursue ambitions

By Andy Tong A GROUP to help those who suffer a stroke at a relatively young age has been set up in Tunbridge Wells on behalf of the national charity Different Strokes.

It was established this year by Lisa Beaumont, who suffered a catastrophic brain haemorrhage in 2011 at the age of 44 and remains paralysed down one side of her body.

The mother of two teenage daughters, who lives in the town, said: “It’s a time when you’ve got a lot of your life ahead of you, and you still have ambitions.

Share “All of us have a couple of decades ahead when we might be able to do useful things.

“You are still living your life. It doesn’t take away what you did before.”

Lisa was formerly Marketing Manager at Trinity Theatre and is credited with turning its fortunes around when it was facing closure.

Now she is determined to help fellow ‘survivors’ to get on with their lives.

She said: “I really relied on the Different Strokes Facebook group for peer support. We don’t have a local group here, so I decided to do it myself.

“I want to make my own experience as useful as possible to others. Given everything that I’ve had to go through, I thought it would be good to share it with others.”

The meetings are held at Headway West Kent in Culverden Park. The charity, which supports adults affected by brain or head injury, has donated the use of the venue free of charge.

The group discuss their experiences and the support services that are available to them, creating a ‘directory’ to help them make progress.

“Sharing information is what it’s about,” said Lisa. “One of our attendees has started going along to hydrotherapy at Burrswood after I suggested it to him.”

Lauren McMillan, Marketing Co-ordinator for Different Strokes, visited the meetings and said: “Lisa has worked tirelessly to establish a local support group.

“Using her experience in marketing, the group is growing steadily and establishing great relationships with related parties in the West Kent area. We feel very lucky to have her on board.”

There are regular guest speakers to address related topics, such as specialist neurophysiotherapists Jane Cast and Elissa Benson of Neuro Rehabilitation Kent in Sevenoaks.

Tracey Campbell, a family homeopath from Lingfield, came along and talked about natural remedies for pain relief.

New group member Tarquin Gillespie said: “It’s encouraging to find a group of people who’ve had similar experiences and who are young, too.”

A report published by Public Health England earlier this year showed that the number of younger people suffering and surviving strokes is increasing.

The proportion of first-time strokes suffered by 40 to 69 year olds has risen from 33 per cent to 38 per cent in the past decade.

The lead stroke nurse at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Victoria Williams, is enthusiastic about the venture.

She told the Times: “A local support group is an excellent way for younger stroke survivors to meet and talk to other people who are in a similar situation, share their experiences and receive peer support.”

For more information about the group, telephone 0345 307172 or email: info@differentstrokes.co.uk

PHOTO: Claire Reader/Capture Me Happy

TREE OF HOPE’S annual golf day at Knole Park raised £2,000 for the local children’s charity.

Six teams took part, including corporate supporters Thomson Snell & Passmore, ID&C, P2 Consulting and Neptune of Tonbridge.

After a day of fierce competition and intense heat in Sevenoaks, Neptune’s James Buck, Mark Crichton, Stephen Humphrey and Mark Barnett were the overall winners.

HELP ON THE WAY: The group with (right) Lisa Beaumont and guest speaker Tracey Campbell

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

IT firm continues to AdEPT New government strategy to shifting telecoms market backed by local business

By Adam Hignett newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

THE rapidly expanding Tunbridge Wells IT firm AdEPT Telecom has added yet another company to its growing list of acquisitions following a £7.9million deal to buy out rival Shift F7 Group.

AdEPT has been making at least one major acquisition per annum for several years.

Competition Founded in 2003, and based on Mount Ephraim, the AIM-listed business came into existence in an era when dial-up modems were still commonplace.

Its focus is the provision of IT and telecommunication services in the business-to-business market, which is still extremely fractured – unlike the public consumer market, which is relatively consolidated among a few big players such as BT and Vodaphone.

It is the drive to consolidate that has led AdEPT to make dozens of multi-million pound acquisitions since it was established.

“The business-to-business market is fractured among many companies,” explained the firm’s Finance director, John Swaite.

“Our model is to buy out the competition, shut them down and move

their business to Tunbridge Wells.”

The acquisition of Surrey-based company Shift F7 is being billed as a ‘strategic’ move that will enhance AdEPT’s geographical dominance throughout the South East and London.

Prior to this, its most recent major purchase was the £12million buyout of the public sector IT provider Atomwide in August 2017.

Earlier that year, it also purchased Our IT Department for £4.8million.

Commenting on the Shift F7 buyout, AdEPT CEO Ian Fishwick said: “We are delighted to have acquired such a high quality, well-run and

profitable business with a strong management team.

“Shift F7 is an excellent fit because it enhances our market position in IT, particularly in London.”

He added: “Shift F7 complements our acquisition of OurIT in February 2017, which is also focused on London and South East commercial customers.

“After the acquisition, more than 70 per cent of AdEPT revenue will be generated from managed services, including IT support, unified communications and data networks.

“It is expected to be earningsenhancing from completion.”

STRENGTH TO STRENGTH: John Swaite (left) and Ian Fishwick

A NEW export strategy launched by the government at the end of August has been praised by a Tunbridge Wells firm which specialises in export advice.

North Farm-based Pathfinder Trade and Invest lauded the government’s overriding aim of increasing exports as a proportion of GDP to 35per cent.

Announced by Trade Secretary Liam Fox last month, the initiative has already been backed by major organisations such as the Confederation of British Industry, the British Chambers of Commerce and the Institute of Directors.

Measures to boost exports include: Government assistance to connect businesses to overseas buyers; better

information, advice and practical assistance on exporting; and the provision of an exporter’s insurance scheme.

Pathfinder helps facilitate trade for its clients by way of overseas trade missions, UK conferences, summits and briefings.

Lyndsay Snowden, Manager at Pathfinder, said the approach was the right way forward and would help companies seize the ‘opportunities’ available to them from Brexit, adding: “The government’s pledge to increase UK exports to 35 per cent of GDP can only be achieved through support and collaboration, enabling those businesses to succeed.

Arriva tweaks services to improve bus reliability PASSENGER transport firm Arriva has brought in what it calls ‘slight changes’ to its bus routes in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge ‘to improve reliability and efficiency’. The alterations came into operation on Sunday [September 2].

One schoolday service has been removed due to low usage, No 572 from Watts Cross near Hildenborough to Tonbridge and Weald of Kent Grammar. However, Weald of Kent pupils will benefit from an additional 148A bus coming from Hadlow at 07.25am.

The 07.17a, 6/6A weekday route from East Peckham to Tunbridge Wells – via Paddock Wood and Pembury – will now leave 15 minutes earlier at 07.02,

arriving in the town at 9am.

The Sunday 402 bus from Tunbridge Wells to Sevenoaks via Tonbridge and Hildenborough will incorporate the 401 service, ending up in Westerham via Weald.

The weekday timetable is unchanged.

Lauren Edmonds, Marketing Manager for Arriva Southern Counties, said: “Our customers’ experience is very important to us, so we seek continuous improvement to our services in the area.

“We strive to provide the best possible service to our customers, and we hope these new developments will make our passengers’ journeys as efficient as possible.”

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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Startling stats may be an error FIGURES in a report professing to show a drastic decline in the Tunbridge Wells ‘knowledge economy’ are likely to be an anomaly, an analyst has suggested.

The knowledge economy consists of those sectors that rely heavily on intellectual capital and less on the creation of tangible products, such as science, IT, distribution and exchange of information, research, technical support and consulting, Wealthier areas tend to have a larger percentage of their economy consisting of this type of output.

As the Times has previously reported, Ben Jeffries

Nomination for Great British Entrepreneur A FORMER Tonbridge School student has been nominated for the Creative Industries Entrepreneur of the Year prize at this year’s Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

Ben Jeffries, 22, is being recognised for his role in founding the online platform Influencer.

The company, which is now based in Bloomsbury but was founded at the Tunbridge Wells home of Mr Jeffries, makes its money by connecting businesses or individuals wanting to promote their products with ‘influencers’.

Influencers are individuals, usually famous or well-known in a certain field, whose large online followings

make them ideal to showcase products and sway consumer appetites.

For example, a new chocolatemaker would benefit from having their products talked up by several well established food bloggers.

The influencers themselves set what they believe is a competitive fee on Mr Jeffries’ platform, in return for his cut.

The Creative Industries Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognises entrepreneurs driving a profit-making business whose output is the unique product of intellectual property. The finals will be hosted in London on November 11.

Tunbridge Wells has consistently topped Kent as having the largest number of employees in the knowledge economy, according to the annual Kent Economic Indicators report.

For the past two years it has stood at 32.9 and 35.7 per cent. The data is collected by the Office for National Statistics [ONS].

However, in the Kent Economic Indicators 2018 assessment, the figure drops to just 25.5 per cent, putting it into second place just behind Canterbury on 25.8 per cent.

No other local authority recorded an increase or decline of more than a couple of per cent on the previous year.

Jeanette Forster, a business intelligence officer at Kent County Council’s Strategic & Corporate Services unit, which compiles the report, said the ONS figures were ‘estimates’ and subject to ‘revisions’.

She said: “The [report] is based on a survey of businesses – generally of around 80,000 businesses in the UK – and the results are estimates as opposed to actual counts.

“At country and regional level these are fairly robust, however, below regional level the estimates begin to deteriorate and as a result can fluctuate.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

West Kent Jobs fair to return this month THOUSANDS of job-seekers are expected to make their way to the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on September 19 for the West Kent Jobs & Training Fair.

The free event will see dozens of local organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors set out their stalls for prospective employees.

Running from 10am until 2pm, the fair will host free workshops, including: Job Searches by Royal British Legion Industries; CV Preparation; Interview Techniques; Leadership Minds and Routes to Employment by Runway Training.

For further information, telephone 01732 583712 or visit tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Diversity meets luxury at Childrensalon LUXURY clothing maker Gresham Blake has launched a collaborative range with the Tunbridge Wells designer retailer Childrensalon.

The limited-edition collection is aimed at children aged between two and 16 years old and will feature 23 ‘eclectic styles’ of clothing.

Its launch was accompanied by

a video featuring Perri Kiely of performance group Diversity and Britain’s Got Talent finalists DVJ. Commenting on the tie-up, Childrensalon CEO Michele Harriman-Smith said: “We are incredibly excited about this collaboration between our two brands.”

Perri Kiely

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Police chief calls for access to social media in ‘minutes’ BRITAIN’S most senior police officer wants investigators to have access to social media accounts ‘within minutes’.

The Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Cressida Dick, said police are often either blocked from getting vital evidence or forced to go through ‘a very protracted procedure’ to obtain information from social media companies.

Her comments came after the mother of 13-year-old schoolgirl Lucy McHugh urged Facebook to give police access to an account belonging to a man held on suspicion of murder.

Stacey White said detectives could uncover information vital to their investigation if they are allowed to read messages sent and received by Stephen Nicholson before Lucy’s death.

The care worker, 24, was jailed for 14 months on Friday over his refusal to hand over the password to his account.

He was staying at Lucy’s family home in Southampton until several days before she was found stabbed to death in woodland on July 26.

Investigators face having to take lengthy legal action in the US in order to obtain access. Ms White has said

GOOGLE ISSUES TOOLKIT

MURDERED Lucy McHugh unlocking the account would ‘certainly give police an idea of what was being said between Lucy and Stephen’.

“In situations like this, Facebook really should just release the information that is needed and I think that is the opinion that everybody has,” she told the Daily Mail.

Speaking on LBC yesterday [Tuesday], Ms Dick said: “I haven’t followed this in detail but it is not the first time, how-

Labour embarks on ‘new journey’ as police examine leaked dossier LABOUR’S National Executive Committee [NEC] decided to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism at a meeting in London yesterday [Tuesday].

The party’s Deputy Leader, Tom Watson, hailed the move as the ‘start of the journey’ to rebuild trust with the Jewish community.

Critics have claimed the wording could prevent criticism of the Israeli government’s actions against Palestinians.

But senior Labour figures urged the body to adopt the full definition to help draw a line under an issue which has dogged Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership.

Mr Watson said: “I hope that is the start of the journey in rebuilding trust with the Jewish community.”

There were noisy protests from rival groups outside Labour’s headquarters.

Google is making an artificial intelligence kit available that will help companies detect and report child sexual abuse material online.

The technology is able to quickly scan images for abusive content and prioritise the most likely cases, making it possible for reviewers to find and take action on 700 per cent more content, Google said.

It is also hoped that the system will reduce the number of harrowing images that human moderators have to look through. ever, that a police service in the UK or overseas has approached a social media company looking for evidence and had to either go through a very protracted procedure or has found it’s impossible to do so.

“I absolutely think that in certain instances, and it sounds to me like this is one, law enforcement in the UK ought to be able to have vital evidence which might bring somebody to justice.”

PROTEST Jewish Labour supporters

Meanwhile Scotland Yard is reviewing a leaked file on anti-Semitism in the party, which it is claimed contains 21 cases that should have been reported to the police.

LBC received an internal Labour dossier of 45 cases involving messages posted by party members on social media.

Complicated The broadcaster passed the leaked material to former senior police officer Mak Chishty, who said that 17 instances should have been reported to the police for investigation, and another four were potential race hate crimes.

During a call-in on LBC yesterday [Tuesday], Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said: “I, of course, will pass this to my experts to

deal with but the law is quite complicated, the bar is actually quite high.

“It’s not just because I’m offended or you’re insulted, it’s got to be ­threatening, it’s got to incite racial hatred, there are a number of offences.”

A spokesperson said: “The Labour Party has a robust system for investigating complaints of alleged breaches of Labour Party rules by its members.

“Where someone feels they have been a victim of crime, they should report it to the police in the usual way.”

Massive fire at London school A FIRE which tore through a primary school in east London a day before pupils are due to return from their summer break has been brought under control, emergency services said.

London Fire Brigade said it was ‘too soon to speculate’ what might have caused the blaze at Roding Primary School in Dagenham.

A large part of the single-storey structure has been damaged, although there have been no reports of injuries.

The Station Manager, Rod ­Wainwright, said 12 fire engines and around 80 firefighters were called to the scene shortly before 5am yesterday [Tuesday].

He said: “Flames could be seen from some distance away and crews were faced with a serious blaze when they arrived on the scene.

“They worked very hard to bring

SERIOUS BLAZE Twelve fire engines attended the fire under control but, given the intensity of the fire, there is unfortunately significant damage to the school.

“It is unfortunate timing that this fire has occurred just before the start of term.

“It is too soon to speculate on the cause of the fire but, as soon as they’re able to, fire investigators will enter the site to start their work.”

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National Business News

Hundreds of jobs to go at struggling Fenwick RETAILER Fenwick is to axe 421 jobs to cut costs amid a collapse in annual profits.

The department store chain said the cull, part of a turnaround effort, will affect management, support and shop floor staff.

It came as Fenwick posted a 93 per cent fall in pre-tax profits to £2million after being hit by an impairment charge on the value of its properties and costs linked to restructuring.

A spokesperson said: “Our annual results reflect the challenging market conditions all department store groups are facing, including increased competition from online retail, declining footfall on the high street, and increasingly competitive price discounting – factors that have been exacerbated by a rise in the cost of living that has led to a fall in consumers’ disposable income.”

Gross sales also decreased by 3.6 per cent to £411.1million in the year to January 26.

Carney in talks about staying on at the Bank THE Governor of the Bank of England, Mark Carney, has confirmed he is holding discussions with the Treasury over extending his tenure as he pledged to do ‘whatever’ he can to support the UK through Brexit.

Mr Carney told the Treasury Select Committee he has discussed staying on past his departure date of June 2019 with the Chancellor.

He said: “I fully recognise that during this critical period it’s important that everyone does everything they can to help with the transition to exiting the EU. “Even though I have already agreed to extend my time to support a smooth Brexit, I am willing to do whatever else I can in order to promote both a smooth Brexit and effective transition at the Bank of England.”

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TSB chief steps down – but not because of IT problems TSB’S Chief Executive Paul Pester will leave the troubled bank with a payout of nearly £1.7million despite standing down in the wake of a failed IT switch and a succession of ongoing technology problems.

The lender confirmed Dr Pester, who has been placed on gardening leave, will receive £1.2million in severance pay and a ‘historical’ bonus of around £480,000 which is due from before TSB’s takeover by Sabadell in 2015.

All other performance-related pay has been frozen amid investigations into the IT issues.

Chairman Richard Meddings insisted the decision for Mr Pester to leave was by ‘mutual agreement’ and denied his departure was linked to the IT migration failure.

Dr Pester’s departure yesterday [Tuesday] comes after seven years in the post.

The IT debacle in April left up to 1.9million people using TSB’s digital and mobile banking locked out of bank accounts.

The bank was forced to apologise on Monday after many customers were again unable to access their accounts.

Mr Meddings, who will now become Executive Chairman until a replacement is appointed, said: “Although there is more to do to achieve

SWITCHING OFF Paul Pester leaves by ‘mutual consent’

full stability for customers, the bank’s IT systems and services are much improved since the IT migration.

“Paul and the board have therefore agreed that this is the right time to appoint a new Chief Executive for TSB.”

Privilege Dr Pester said it had been a ‘privilege’ to lead the bank, but admitted that the past few months have been ‘challenging for everyone at TSB’.

Treasury Committee Chairwoman Nicky Morgan welcomed news of his departure and said ‘it is right’ that he should step down.

She said: “Since the IT prob-

lems at TSB began, Paul Pester set the tone for TSB’s complacent and misleading public communications.

“The Treasury Committee, therefore, concluded that it lost confidence in Dr Pester’s position as Chief Executive of TSB.” But she said his successor will need to restore confidence in the group, with the committee remaining concerned about the ‘continuing problems at TSB, including unacceptable delays in compensating customers who have been badly let down’.

TSB’s tech troubles were triggered by a migration of customer data from former owner Lloyds’ IT system to a new one managed by TSB’s current owner Sabadell in April.

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Clark takes action to disqualify former BHS owner Chappell BUSINESS Secretary Greg Clark is taking High Court action which could lead to former BHS owner Dominic Chappell being banned from serving as a company director.

Yesterday [Tuesday] a specialist judge oversaw a preliminary hearing at London’s Director Disqualification Court, which is part of the High Court.

Judge Sebastian Prentis analysed a number of pre-trial issues and listed a further hearing for November 20. No date has yet been fixed for a trial.

He said Mr Clark, the MP for Tunbridge Wells, had taken action under the terms of legislation governing the disqualification of company directors.

The judge said the case centred on BHS and other related companies.

Collapse He heard submissions on preliminary issues from barrister Tiran Nersessian, who represented Mr Clark.

Mr Chappell is listed alongside two other defendants, his father Joseph Chappell and Lennart Henningson, in case paperwork.

None of the three defendants were present at the hearing.

In March, bosses at the Insolvency Service said they had written to Mr Chappell and three other former BHS directors saying they intended to bring proceedings following an investigation into the collapse of department store chain.

Businessman Sir Philip Green had sold BHS to Mr Chappell for £1 in 2015. BHS went into administration in 2016 with the loss of around 11,000 jobs.

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Letters

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: www.timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Give us pick-and-mix waste services to sugar the pill of garden charge Not for the first time I read that the collection of garden waste is considered to be a ‘free’ service. I pay a lot in local rates and most certainly do consider that the charge includes the garden waste collection service.

As for Cllr Basu’s comment that the charge would be welcomed by those without a garden, we do not have a pick-and-mix system whereby we decide which services we would like to pay for. Our rates cover all services, whether we utilise them or not.

However, I would welcome a pick-and-mix system. For a long time my weekly big shop includes dropping off paper, glass and tins for recycling (i.e. I do not use the council’s collection service).

So I am more than happy to opt out of this service and have the rates refund offset to the new garden waste collection charge.

It would help keep costs down for householders, but I suspect the intention is to gouge more money out of them.

Ian Burbury Via email

Calverley Square costs are complex Many column inches have been taken up covering the Calverley Square civic complex, with much attention focused on its reported cost of £90million.

There is no question that this is a tidy sum, but in fairness to both sides of the argument, the emphasis on this amount is too simplistic.

A significant part of the cost would be financed by way of a loan, with capital and interest payments spread over the medium or longer term. Buildings vacated would be sold or retained to provide a rental income.

Then there is the implicit assumption that when fully operational the new complex would be cash-generative.

Then there is the impact of inflation: The recognition that £1 will reduce in value in terms of what it will buy in each successive year. Therefore cash flows arising as a result of the project, positive and negative, need to be discounted year by year to a present day value equivalent to ensure comparability.

Only then might informed discussion take place around the cost.

LG Irving Tunbridge Wells

Changes don’t seem to be working The unnecessary works to alter the bus stops at Tonbridge railway station started on July 25 and, we are told, will last three months.

We are now just over a third of the way through the time, but it doesn’t look as if anything like a third of the work has been done.

The general consensus is that, just like the High Street, the works will overrun spectacularly and that they will not be finished by Christmas.

Can Kent County Council disabuse us of this?

And there’s still disruption nearly every weekend because Southeastern has not

BIN THERE, DONE THAT Garden waste collection should be part of the service already

A simple sampling exercise of the then existing paths would have revealed that there are insufficient cyclists using them.

Somebody should have clipped his wings. His use of an electric bike is beyond irony.

Peter Casson Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

Thank you to my good Samaritan While out running in Forest Road on August 24 at around 3.30pm, I tripped and fell. A passing driver stopped, helped me up and drove me home, despite going in a different direction.

It transpires I broke my hand and injured my knee quite badly. I was in so much pain I didn’t ask for his details. It would be lovely to be able to thank him.

Klementina Piper Tunbridge Wells

made proper arrangements to deal with rail replacement buses following the doubledecking of the Vale Road car park.

John Brandon Tonbridge

When timetables are approximate

Farewell to the pharoahs of RVP

In my youth I had to regularly use buses. One stood at bus stops to which were attached a list of times when to expect a bus. OK, they were often late, but only by a minute or two.

Fast forward to 2018. I was waiting in Ferndale for a 277 and waited 25 minutes for a 20-minute service. It was a nice, warm, sunny day, but had something gone wrong? Lots of correspondence with Arriva later, and I find that something called the Traffic Commissioners allow bus companies to run a bus up to five minutes early!

But from certain stops it is only one minute – and there is only one of those on the 277 route; apart from the start and finish.

So what is the point of a timetable? What I find hardest to understand is: Are Arriva running buses for the public to use? They claim the timetable tells me to be there early, but it actually says: ‘Times from this stop are approximate’.

Richard Forth Tunbridge Wells

We’re the ancient Egyptians of RVP Each day before dawn we get up and flee To leave the place open to you all, instead, To learn what we did with the ankh and the djed.

Cycle paths have hardly any bikes

Take care in our homes, we don’t like high jinks And please do not climb on the virtual Sphinx; Just imagine our families – grans, dads and kids And mummies, of course, in our pyramids.

Greg Clark continues to punt cycle paths [August 22], but the facts do not match his rhetoric.

The sad truth is that this expensive exercise has been a triumph of his aspiration over harsh reality. A pitiful number of cyclists use them.

The stretch of path between Tonbridge and Pembury which he has championed is nothing more than an example of an MP, who should be more prudent with the public purse, being given his head when a harder-nosed reality should have prevailed.

Our exhibition is truly terrific Even if you don’t know the odd hieroglyphic; But can you work out this tricky brain teaser: How did we get all this over from Giza?

We do not have much in the way of shops We eat rice and wheat from our home-grown crops; Not hot dog or pizza, no burger, ciabatta We’ll stick to honey for the hereafter.

We’ve never heard of your mobile phones However we do have cats, ‘dogs and bones’.

No iPads, no Wi-fi, no tablets, no drones – But we know what to do with a pile of old stones.

Our people are brilliant, you cannot ignore The monuments left by the Nile at Luxor.

Look back, when you leave, to where we might stand: Now just a few footprints to find in the sand.

Helen Mills Tunbridge Wells

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

BEWARE of buying bananas at Waitrose.

Calverley is particularly partial to the fruit, which is why he popped into the supermarket. Fed up with throwing away unwanted bananas, he decided to buy just one. (Yes we know it looks that way, but he’s not really stingy.) Anyway, he used the scales next to the fruit and a stick-on label told him it would cost 12p. Putting the shopping through the checkout, he noticed the banana was being charged at 35p. When queried, the helpful assistant advised him that single bananas were charged at 35p. He could not explain why there was not a notice on the display of fruit advising customers of the policy. Calverley went back to the display and ended up buying three bananas for 37p.

BELIEVE it or not, some individuals have in the past suggested Calverley is a bit of a misogynist. (He looked the word up and was mightly offended.) He did, though, come across a case last week of a chap who is, it would seem, strongly prejudiced against women. Calverley’s female friends told him of the evening they gathered for one of their regular art classes and one of their number arrived late. When asked why, she told them: “My husband wouldn’t let me leave the house until I’d emptied the dishwasher.”

How sad is that – and more so when you remember that this year is the centenary of women winning the right to vote, or at least some of them. Long way to go yet.

SITTING on a bar stool at a Tunbridge Wells hostelry, Calverley was taken aback to overhear the following: A family of four (mum, dad and two girls) study the food menu and place an order. One of the girls orders burger in a bun with chips. Mum to Bar Person: “My daughter is allergic to some seeds and we see the bun has seeds on top.

Can she have it without the bun?” Bar Person: “Sorry, but that’s the way it comes.”

Mum: “But can you put the bun on a separate plate then?” Bar Person: “Can’t do that either.” Mum: “Why on earth not?” Bar Person: “Because it would spoil the presentation of the plate.” This is in a pub, for goodness sake, not some Michelin-star restaurant. Family walks out; rightly so.

Chin Chin, readers

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Weekly Comment

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Derek Boyle Labour Town Councillor for Paddock Wood

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Derek Boyle is the local Labour Party education spokesperson. He is a Paddock Wood Town Councillor and has worked in education across Kent for 22 years.

He stood for Labour in the recent Tunbridge Wells Borough Council elections.

Back to school and the reality of cuts AS our young people return to or start the new academic year, the schools that will be nurturing them for the coming year are reeling from yet more damaging cuts and a desperate shortage of qualified teachers.

For the eighth year in a row, teachers are facing the prospect of yet another year when wage rises are below inflation, so in real terms yet another pay cut.

Funding for schools has been increasingly on the agenda over the last few years, with headteachers calling for sustained investment in our schools and not in vanity projects, such as free schools and driving the curriculum back to the 1950s through the reforms introduced by Michael Gove when he was Education Secretary.

Instead of funding schools at sustainable levels to cope with an increasing pupil population, the same funding cake is being stretched further and further, meaning that the per pupil funding is being cut.

If you want to see the effect of the coming funding changes in your own children’s school, use the School Cuts website by using visiting schoolcuts.org.uk The link shows that between 2015 and 2020, schools across Kent will be losing £21million – the equivalent of £112 per pupil – in their funding.

The Labour Party is currently consulting on a

National Education Service that, along with the NHS, promises to look after the welfare of the individual and society from the cradle to the grave.

Conservative cuts are starving schools of the funding they need to deliver a first-class education. Crippling under-funding is driving up class sizes and forcing schools to cut staffing, resources for the arts, libraries and visits.

The culture of high-pressure assessment for children and high risks accountability for schools is driving away teachers, exacerbating a recruitment and retention crisis.

cut back on lesson time, staff or facilities in at least one creative arts subject.

At a time of our greatest uncertainty for what the future holds for us as a country, we need a properly funded education system, with our

brightest and best graduates wanting to become teachers and wanting to stay in the profession.

Only Labour has a credible plan for this, and the National Education Service is our blueprint for supporting the education of all.

Creative With the unknown impact of Brexit looming, the need to invest in skills and education is even more pressing. We need an education system that is fit for the 21st century and the challenges that the modern world brings – not one that looks backwards and that values only an ‘academic’ education that the English Baccalaureate constrains schools and pupils into.

The narrowness of the curriculum is starving our pupils of access to courses and qualifications in the creative subjects, where our GDP is growing the fastest. In a recent BBC survey, nine in every ten schools that responded said they had

NUMBERS’ UP: A student at The Skinners’ School in Tunbridge Wells collecting the results of his GCSEs last week, which for the first time used the numbers 9-1 grading system

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

L A I T N E S ES 16-PAGE E FEATUR

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LOCAL NEWSPAPERS

. . . n o s u c o F

EDUCATION All you need to know for selecting the right independent school for your children

What’s on outside the classroom?

Pages 24-28, 53-54

How to encourage your child to read

Learning to catch helps with lessons

Pages 56-57

Page 58

Exercise is good for mental wellbeing Page 59

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Education Guide: Class act

The Times brings you another of its dedicated education guides, which aims to make selecting the right school for your child as informed and stress-free as possible…

S

ELECTING the correct preparatory or primary school for your little one, or ensuring that you choose the right secondary option for them, will ensure they have the best learning experience.

But in an area that boasts so many options to consider, things can become a little overwhelming.

In order to make your decisions easier, the Times has compiled another useful guide about not just what the various local independent educational establishments have to offer prospective pupils and their parents, but also the types of extra-curricular activities they boast to enhance your child’s learning experience.

Spotlight We also talk to experts about how learning can be further progressed by taking the time to read with your children, and encouraging them to play more sport.

In addition to this, we also shine a spotlight on why taking more exercise is an essential part of boosting both your child’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Finally, there is our comprehensive list of the forthcoming open days being held by a number of our independent junior and senior schools, so you can see at a glance what’s going on where and when.

So learning about your child’s next step on the educational ladder couldn’t be easier…

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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BEDE’S SCHOOL

EDUCATION INSIGHT With the summer drawing to a close, and thoughts now focused on the new school year, the Times takes a look at some of the ways in which local schools will be continuing to provide an education outside the classroom.

Whether it be cutting down on plastic usage or becoming more involved with community work, we asked which non-academic commitments and projects they might be planning this year…

Upper Dicker Head Teacher: Peter Goodyer Web: bedes.org Telephone: 01323 843 252 Open day: September 15 PUPILS at Bede’s pick from a wide array of over 100 activities and clubs each week, guided by their tutor.

They have innumerable opportunities to demonstrate service towards the school, community or wider world, including volunteering with local hospitals, holding ‘knit and natter’ sessions with local residents, spending time at care homes, teaching science at local primary schools and helping with the local foodbank.

We help pupils initiate activities too; our goal is to increase their confidence, tolerance and empathy for others, enabling them to

show a high level of commitment and develop leadership skills.

Whether in our rigorous sports academies, which have seen Bede’s teams in cricket, hockey and tennis building national reputations, or in our range of creative clubs and activities, such sessions provide opportunities for pupils to challenge themselves, perform beyond their expectations and work collaboratively.

Bede’s pupils leave the school knowing who they are and what they want from life.

THE MEAD SCHOOL

Tunbridge Wells Head Teacher: Andrew Webster Web: themeadschool.co.uk Telephone: 01892 525 837 Open day: October 11, 2.15-3.15pm

SET THE STANDARD Bede’s looks to develop commitment and leadership skills

WELLIES or studs at the ready, we’re heading outdoors. Long renowned for its outstanding pastoral care, academic results and performing arts, The Mead is set to further enhance its holistic approach to education by investing in team sport and outdoor learning.

From September, all Meadites will have access to Forest School at a local woodland, and our brand new Astro turf on-site will facilitate fixtures for all our senior children.

The Loose Parts Play initiative has

inspired a redevelopment of our playground, which now includes a large communal sand pit and denbuilding area.

We will continue to take advantage of our enviable town location by getting out into the community, often singing, so keep an eye out for our famous boaters and caps.

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MARLBOROUGH HOUSE SCHOOL

Hawkhurst Head Teacher: Martyn Ward Web: marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk Telephone: 01580 753 555 Open day: ‘Every day is an open day!’

AT Marlborough House we work hard to model for pupils the idea that ‘valuing others’ extends to showing empathy and compassion for people who are less fortunate than ourselves.

From all-school Zumba classes and selling homemade dog biscuits to teacher soakings and fancy-dress assault courses, our children prove time and again that their imaginations know no bounds

when it comes to fundraising.

Over the last five years our school has donated over £80,000 to a whole host of charitable organisations, and I know our children are already thinking about how they can add to that figure in the months to come.

Each term in their school ‘houses’, children research and nominate the charities that they feel are most in need of

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

their help. By doing this, they learn that ‘need’ comes in many guises, and even the humblest fundraising efforts can have a very real and positive impact on those in their local community.

But it’s not just about reaching the top of a Blue Peter-style ‘fund-o-meter’, our children will continue to learn about what it means to be a good citizen and how acts of kindness can brighten someone’s darkest day.

The German proverb ‘Charity sees the need, not the cause’ rings very true at Marlborough House and next year, when our choirs sing for residents of the local cottage hospital and dementia care centre, they will discover once again that they have the power to lift spirits as well as raise roofs!

SKIPPERS HILL MANOR PREP SCHOOL

Five Ashes Head Teacher: Mark Hammond Web: skippershill.com Telephone: 01825 830 234 Open day: October 3

IN ADDITION to our comprehensive sporting programme, one of the great strengths of Skippers is its extra-curricular programme.

Our existing activities, which include mountain biking in our extensive grounds and Bushcraft club, will be supplemented this coming year as children will have the opportunity to build, drive and race a brand-new kit car, thereby developing their understanding and passion for engineering.

Coding continues to be popular, and we look forward

to introducing robotics as part of our offer.

The Skippers Challenge Award goes from strength to strength, and pupils in the senior part of the school will again take part in residential trips and expeditions, develop their interests through personal projects, and rise to the challenge of learning new skills.

Community service is an important aspect of the award, and the pupils will again be hosting an afternoon tea for local elderly residents as part of our annual wellbeing week.

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KENT COLLEGE

Pembury Head Teacher: Julie Lodrick Web: kent-college.co.uk Telephone: 01892 820 218 Open day: Senior School: October 6, 9.30am to 1pm Sixth Form Information Evening: October 11, 7pm to 9pm Prep School and Senior School: October 16, 9.30am to 12noon WE are committed to the positive formation of the next generation, therefore pastoral care will continue to underpin everything we do.

Mrs Tobin, our Deputy Head, recently completed training in mental health first aid, and will

focus on working with our girls in this area next year.

From a young age, we are taught how to look after ourselves physically and learn what to do to stay physically healthy. It is important that we do the same for our mental health, too.

Younger pupils will have the

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk opportunity to spend time outdoors taking part in our onsite Forest Schools programme, where they learn to develop a whole range of skills from bushcraft to wild cooking.

We will continue to look beyond our own school community and are going to be working more with our neighbours, through projects such as the creation of an installation for the Pembury Flower Festival, supporting charities chosen by the girls, undertaking residential care home visits during Sport and Wellbeing afternoons, and with a variety of travel opportunities, to broaden our pupils’ horizons.

CLAREMONT SCHOOL

Bodiam Head Teacher: Ed Dickie Web: claremontschool.co.uk Telephone: 01580 830 396 Open day: October 6

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

CLAREMONT SCHOOL continues to seek every opportunity to reach out to the wider community through a variety of means.

We continue to support the Pestalozzi International Village Charity in nearby Sedlescombe, providing educational opportunities for students from across the world.

Our co-curricular programme also offers up a range of

activities designed to engage with the wider world, such as: Volunteering at Hartley House nursing home, Eco Club, a dedicated ‘service’ afternoon, and a well-entrenched Duke of Edinburgh programme – all ensure that students are developing themselves as much outside the classroom as they are in it.

Continued on Page 53

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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Oven-ready

A village cottage that was once a bakery Page 31

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Splendour in the grass

in Camden Park Page 34

A DOUBLE TAKE ON GRAND HOMES

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MAKING UNIVERSITY FEEL LIKE HOME

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FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk To Suit Your Budget

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Your at-a-glance guide to BROADWATER DOWN TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£565,000

UNDER £250,000

n Kitchen

UNDER £350,000

THE RIDGE GROOMBRIDGE

n Box room

WESTERN ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£225,000

n Bedroom 1 with shelved storage cupboard n Bedroom 2 with views

GUIDE PRICE

n Bathroom

£345,000

n Purpose-built first floor flat requiring some updating

n Private garden requiring cultivation, and garden store

n Late Victorian bay-fronted semi-detached house

n Spacious with rural outlooks

CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 bracketts.co.uk

n Close to Grosvenor & Hilbert Park

n Sitting room with views across railway line to countryside

n Sitting room with alcove storage

n Dining room, including chimney breast with alcoves n Modern shaker-style kitchen with exterior door n Bedroom 1 with store cupboard n Bedroom 2 n Spacious bathroom n 60ft garden with raised decking CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 bracketts.co.uk

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great properties by price range…

UNDER £450,000 GARDEN STREET TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£400,000 ■ Grade II listed, semi-detached Decimus Burton home ■ Town centre location ■ Sitting room with fireplace ■ Dining room ■ Kitchen & lobby with door to garden ■ Ground floor bathroom ■ 2 double bedrooms ■ Boarded loft with light ■ Walled garden with patio CONTACT Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 woodandpilcher.co.uk

UNDER £500,000 CLEVELAND COTTAGES, SPELDHURST

GUIDE PRICE

£475,000-£495,000 ■ Period semi-detached house ■ Village location with elevated views ■ Sitting room with working fireplace ■ Dining room with open fireplace ■ Kitchen and lobby area ■ Ground floor bathroom and WC ■ Lower ground floor playroom ■ Bedroom 1 overlooking church grounds ■ Bedroom 2 with far-reaching views ■ Bedroom 3 with cast iron fireplace ■ Garden with patio and shed; Driveway CONTACT Kings Estates Tunbridge Wells 01892 533367 kings-estates.co.uk

UNDER £900,000 BAKERY COTTAGE, FORDCOMBE

UNDER £600,000 BROADWATER DOWN TUNBRIDGE WELLS

■ Master bedroom with full-height bay window and en-suite bathroom

GUIDE PRICE

GUIDE PRICE

■ Further good-sized bedroom

■ Formerly the village bakery

■ Family bathroom

■ Principal reception with fireplace and part re-creation of original bread ovens

£565,000 ■ Character garden flat in a Victorian mansion ■ Close to Hargate Forest ■ Private entrance ■ Sitting room featuring full-height bay window with original shutters and door to conservatory ■ Study ■ Kitchen/breakfast room ■ Large conservatory/garden room

■ Private garden ■ Garage, driveway and off-road parking ■ No onward chain

£800,000-£815,000

■ Dining room with fireplace ■ Kitchen/breakfast room with Aga, inner lobby and cellar ■ Ground floor shower/utility room ■ 4 bedrooms (1 with en-suite bathroom)

CONTACT Kings Estates Tunbridge Wells 01892 533367 kings-estates.co.uk

■ Family shower room ■ Garden, pond and double garage CONTACT Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 woodandpilcher.co.uk

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AT A GLANCE DOLPHIN HOUSE CAMDEN PARK TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Updated and extended home in desirable, leafy private estate n Entrance hall n Sitting room with open fire n Superb fitted David Haugh kitchen/ breakfast room open-plan to dining area with vaulted glass ceiling n Utility room with door to garage n Hardwood Edmondson conservatory with bifold doors to garden n Shower room n Staircase with brushed steel balustrading n Landing with electrically-operated blink glass picture window n Master bedroom with en-suite shower n Bedroom 2 with en-suite bathroom n 3 further double bedrooms

One of the rare areas in town you are unlikely to see parked cars on the road, this estate provides a peaceful town centre setting

Beautifully improved home in prestigious Camden Park

n Generous family bathroom n Gas-fired central and underfloor heating, Kinetico water softner n Integral garage n Driveway and turning area n Gardens to three sides, including terrace, pergola and shed

ÂŁ1,499,950 Available for sale through Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 woodandpilcher.co.uk

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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Six of the best buys for student digs

Don’t leave decking the halls (of residence) until the last minute

1

Luxury Velvet Personalised Planner

by Thebridge & Taylor, £45, notonthehighstreet.com If you’re lucky enough to be gifted with this gorgeous A4 hardback notebook, it’ll be a stylish reminder that you’ll be missed at home. Worthy of pride of place on any desk.

2

Sainsbury’s Home Chalk Memo Board £15, Sainsbury’s (in larger stores nationwide) With so many student socials (and assignment deadlines, of course), this diary planner could be their new best friend.

3

I

t may be a few weeks before new university students need to get fully ready for making the ‘big move’ – but while there’s a lot to think about, styling their space deserves a bit of consideration, too.

So for those looking to add a touch of personality to their space and make their halls of residence room more welcoming, we’ve hunted down some decorative and practical pieces to help newbies feel right at home…

Lavazza A Modo Mio Tiny £49, Lavazza Bring café society home with Lavazza’s latest coffee-making model, which at a cute 29cm tall and 12cm wide will squeeze into the tiniest space. And let’s face it, by the time you’ve saved on all those pricey double shots, the machine will have paid for itself. With quick and easy frontal capsule loading and no mess.

4

Ditsy Floral Double Duvet Set £18, Morrisons Home Coming up roses… Pretty as a picture, this 100 per cent cotton bedding is great value for money.

5

Hometime Round Geometric Wall Clock (30.5cm) £14.99, Very With so many demands on their time, a clock should be in every student’s edit – and why not make it a stylish one? We love these happy hands with a wash of colour.

6

Tommy Task Lamp (H 38.5cm x W 12cm) £12, Matalan Don’t put up with dingy lighting; that essay paper deserves to be put in the spotlight.

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

HURST COLLEGE

Hurstpierpoint Head Teacher: Tim Manly Web: hppc.co.uk Telephone: 01273 836 937 Open day: All schools: September 22 Sixth Form: October 6 Year 7: October 9

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KING’S ROCHESTER

Rochester Head Teacher: Jeremy Walker Web: kings-rochester.co.uk Telephone: 01634 888 590 Open day: September 29 and May 11, 2019 11+ Morning: March 11, 2019 KING’S ROCHESTER is totally committed to our local community, and we are proud of our long history as the second

HURST COLLEGE will be carrying out a variety of non-academic commitments and projects this year. They will be introducing a new wellbeing programme for all Year 9s to take part in yoga, mindfulness, farm work and time working together in the woodland.

Also, they will be continuing to support the Joshua Orphanage and Community Care charity in Malawi through fundraising initiatives and practical help, with another community project next summer.

We will also be providing all staff with reusable cups and bottles to reduce plastic waste and promote hydration.

CRANBROOK SCHOOL

Cranbrook Head Teacher: Dr John Weeds Web: cranbrookschool.co.uk Telephone: 01580 711 800 Open day: Years 7 and 9 Open Evening September 19 Year 7 Open Mornings September 21 and October 16 Year 9 Open Mornings September 25 and 26 Sixth Form Open Evening November 7 CRANBROOK SCHOOL is committed to inspiring students through conservation and charity work, both in the community and beyond, shaping confident future leaders and innovators while

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oldest school in the country.

We share our facilities with local schools and sports clubs, and in 2013 our Sports Centre was shortlisted for Outstanding Community Initiative at the Independent School Awards.

We also carry out fundraising for local charities and have an extensive voluntary work programme.

In addition, King’s employs over 250 people locally at all levels of employment, and contributes over £6million directly to the local economy on an annual basis.

The school also buys as many of its goods and services locally as possible, contributing further significant financial impact.

In recent years, the school

has been part of the Medway Cultural Partnership, and is an active participant in the Medway Champions Programme, which brings together local businesses and community groups to promote Medway as a place to live, visit, work and learn.

emphasising the important role they will take up for future generations.

We are continuing to build local relationships for the coming academic year, including an established liaison group with neighbouring primary schools, and a Cranbrook Junior Diploma, which cultivates leadership skills, community work and local projects.

The students have always been enthusiastic in their approach to charity work and plans for 2018-2019 are already taking shape, such as Walk and Talk for mental health.

Established links with three primary schools in Nepal, and

the Bhavans School in Kerala, India, will continue to develop in new ways following ongoing expedition and exchange activities during the summer.

As part of its fifth centenary celebrations, Cranbrook School will also feature in the Lord Mayor’s Show in November.

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HILDEN GRANGE

Education

Tonbridge Head Teacher: John Withers Web: hildengrange.co.uk Telephone: 01732 352 706 Open day: October 6, 9.30am to 12.30pm

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THE extra-curricular programme has always been a strong focus at Hilden Grange, and one that complements the academic provision.

We have highly specialised staff whose expertise and enthusiasm for their subjects inspires our pupils.

For example, rehearsals for the school musical will start this month under the guidance of our Head of Drama and Director of Music, while sport continues to go from strength to strength under the expert guidance of our Games teachers.

We celebrate success, but the emphasis is very much on enjoyment and participation,

with every child in the Prep School having the opportunity to play competitive fixtures.

Social responsibility is a key part of the ethos at Hilden Grange.

Each year – in discussion with the children – we choose a charity that we will support for the year, and in addition to raising money we also learn about the charity’s work and the people it helps.

In the past these have included War Child and Coram.

With over 40 clubs in our extra-curricular programme, we look forward to another year of inspiring children and taking learning beyond the curriculum.

BENNETT MEMORIAL SCHOOL

Tunbridge Wells Head Teacher: Jon Sparke Web: bennettmemorial.co.uk Telephone: 01892 521 595 Open day: Tuesday September 26, Thursday September 28 and Wednesday November 4

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

BEECHWOOD SACRED HEART SCHOOL

Tunbridge Wells Head Teacher: Mrs Helen Rowe Web: beechwood.org.uk Telephone: 01892 532747 Open day: October 6, 9.30am1.00pm OUR students and staff are passionate about making Beechwood Sacred Heart a more eco-friendly and sustainable school.

This term we are creating an eco-garden and with the help of funding from the Friends of Beechwood the children will develop the site as they work together towards the EcoSchools Green Flag award.

The eco-representatives from each class, led by our Sixth Form eco-prefect, will

BENNETT is a school with rare qualities. We are a Church of England school, academically highly successful, and we also set great store by the development of character and values.

We expect commitment and high standards, both in lessons and beyond lessons, where students benefit from a vast range of wider opportunities, especially in music and sport.

At Bennett, Christian values run through all we do.

We are a happy, tolerant, and inclusive school, yet unshakeably clear about our distinctive character and ethos.

We hope you will want to find out more about our school.

focus on litter and waste around the school. This will include looking at recycling, sustainability, use of water butts, composting, wormeries etc. Students across the school will follow the lead of Nursery and Year 1’s Forest School, growing flowers and vegetables whilst also enjoying the natural beauty of our 23acre site.

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There’s a whole new world just waiting to be explored…

Encouraging children to read can be tricky. Experts reveal their tips for every age group UNDER COVER Change where you read – and even create a den

N

OW that summer is nearly over, reading can be the perfect way to balance out the monotony of the everyday school routine. And children who read have the opportunity to enter a whole new world.

You can make it threedimensional by creating a reading den for them.

To keep things interesting, try changing reading spots – like zipped up inside a tent to read Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden – or switching the time; stories that may be too scary for bedtime, like The Machine Gunners, can be a different experience in the daytime.

The first rule of encouraging children to read is to read yourself. “When a parent says: ‘I can’t get my child to read’, the first thing we ask is: ‘Do they ever see you read?’” says Sue Wilkinson, Chief Executive of the Reading Agency charity.

“They’ve got to see you hanging around the house with a book or a newspaper,” says novelist Claire Fuller.

Writer Lara Feigel says that even before her son knew his alphabet, she would give him a book and they would sit side by side on the sofa; he would turn the pages ‘and pretend to read, next to me reading’.

Reading thrives on intimacy.

The second rule is to give a child freedom of choice.

Stop trying to make them read the book you want them to read.

For novelist Ross Raisin, it’s like ‘holding a book in front of a child as if it’s broccoli and telling them how good it will be for them’.

He makes this mistake with his own daughter ‘and she never reads those books’.

How many of us have hovered in the bookshop

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

or library while a child chooses yet another book by the same author?

“We’ve all been guilty of saying: ‘Pick something else!’” says Liz Pichon, author of the Tom Gates series. “The way to suck the joy out of reading is to make them read something.”

So let them choose. It’s the reading that counts.

Age 5+

Take it in turns to choose books: It gives a child free will, and you a chance to share your favourites.

Dramatise your reading: Change the pace, tone, volume. Share out characters so everyone has a voice.

Readers as young as five can enjoy independence.

“Let the child read on their own if they can’t get to sleep, allowing them to establish an independent, slightly rebellious intimacy with it,” advises novelist Diana Evans.

It can help to quiz your children about what they’ve read. Or try stopping at a really exciting place in the narrative and guess what’s going to happen next.

Age 10+

Children at the lower end of this bracket can still enjoy a bedtime story.

It may happen less often, but reading together a few times a week is still beneficial to your child.

Perhaps suggest reading together one night, and then a few pages independently the following night. You can then catch up and talk about the book so reading becomes a part of your lives without always having to have a book in hand.

Your child may even enjoy reading to you. It’s a special experience to hear how the words sound to your child.

Age 14+

FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION: Liz Pichon says let your children choose which books they want to read

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At this age, just talking to your child can be increasingly challenging, so it may feel a tough ask to engage them on the subject of books.

Recommendations from older siblings and nonparental role models hold huge sway in this age group.

And it’s important not to judge your child’s taste.

With so many competing demands for a teenager’s attention, it can be a real challenge to make reading the norm.

But with a little encouragement, they can all enjoy the wonders of a good book.

When a parent says, ‘I can’t get my child to read’, the first thing we ask is, ‘Do they ever see you read?’

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Time to catch up Children who struggle with co-ordination are less likely to perform well in reading, writing and maths exams, a recent study has found…

S

CHOOLS are being called upon to provide extra support for children who lack hand-eye co-ordination following research by psychologists.

More than 300 children aged between four and 11 took part in various computer tasks for the study, which was conducted by the University of Leeds.

Their co-ordination and interceptive timing were tested by their ability to interact with a moving object.

Tasks designed to measure eye-tohand co-ordination involved steering, taking aim and tracking objects on a computer screen.

In one task, the children had to hit a moving object with an on-screen bat, which researchers said tapped into a fundamental cognitive ability: How the brain predicts the movement of objects through time and space.

Those with better hand-eye co-ordination tended to have higher academic attainment, the study found.

Those who performed best at the ‘steering task’ in particular were on average nine months ahead of classmates who struggled.

However, while interceptive timing

skills tended to be linked to ability in maths, it did not influence reading and writing development.

Mark Mon-Williams, Professor of Cognitive Psychology at the University of Leeds, said: “The results show that eye-to-hand co-ordination and interceptive timing are robust predictors of how well young children will perform at school.”

Abstract He added: “The current thinking among psychologists is that the neural circuitry used to build up a child’s understanding of their external environment – the way they orientate themselves spatially and understand their world – is also used to process numbers and more abstract thinking.

“It also raises the question: Should schools be identifying those children who are seen as clumsy or not so well co-ordinated and giving them extra support?”

The study, published in the peer-review journal Psychological Science, was conducted at Lilycroft Primary School in Bradford, West Yorkshire, which has remodelled its reception, indoor and outdoor areas to include a space where children can develop motor skills and co-ordination.

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Exercise for a healthy body – and mind Moderate physical activity is beneficial for brain development, and can even improve performance in the classroom, according to academics who are calling for more cycle paths and playgrounds…

P

UPILS who do sport or physical activity during school hours do not see their learning or exam results suffer – in fact the opposite is true.

Even one session of an activity that raises children’s heart rates is good for both their brain and their education, according to a panel of 24 specialists in exercise from eight countries, including Britain.

“Time taken away from academic lessons in favour of physical activity has been shown to not come at the expense of scholastic performance in children and youth,” they say.

Multiple They have combined to agree a joint statement on the multiple benefits of exercise for children and young people, which was published last month in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

In a plea for better provision of parks, playgrounds and cycle lanes, they claim that the latest available evidence shows that anything involving exertion, from walking to organised sport to simply playing outdoors, can be good for a child’s physical and mental development.

“A single session of moderate physical activity has an acute benefit to brain function,

‘A single session of moderate physical activity has an acute benefit to brain function, cognition and scholastic performance in children and youth’

cognition and scholastic performance in children and youth,” they say in their 21-point agreed statement.

“Physical activity before, during and after school promotes scholastic performance in children and youth.

“Mastery of fundamental movement skills is beneficial to cognition and scholastic performance in children and youth,” they continued.

Children’s involvement in any

form of structured or unstructured physical activity in or outside school time can also help prevent chronic diseases in adulthood, such as diabetes or coronary artery disease, and be a key part of the treatment of certain childhood conditions, they add.

The authors include Peter Krustrup and Craig Williams of Exeter University, Joan Duda of Birmingham University, Ken Green from Chester University and Symeon Dagkas from the University of East London.

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

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Going Out

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going ut Seven days of activities at a glance

By Eileen Leahy

INCREDIBLES 2 Catch them at The Hop Farm’s drive-in cinema

CHASING THE DRAGONS At Bewl Water’s annual Dragon Boat Festival If you missed The Greatest Showman in the main cinemas, then you have another opportunity to catch this contemporary celluloid classic starring Hugh Jackman and Zac Effron at The Spa Hotel’s open-air cinema tonight. Doors open at 6pm and the film screens at 7.30pm. A bar and lots of hot and cold food will be available. Tickets cost from £15. For more details, see spahotel.co.uk

SATURDAY WEDNESDAY There’s still time to catch a screening of this summer’s hit movie, Incredibles 2, tonight and tomorrow at The Hop Farm courtesy of their Moonlight Drive-In Cinema. See what Elastigirl and her flexible family of superheroes have been up to from 8.15pm. Tickets cost £25 per vehicle and can be booked via moonlightcinema.com Every Wednesday from 7pm until 9pm, the Angel Indoor Bowles Centre in Tonbridge welcomes beginners to their Have a go at bowling evening.

There’s even a free drink on offer at the bar afterwards! For details, visit angelibc.co.uk The Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery’s latest exhibition is entitled Staffages: 2018. It is a collection of photographic works which illuminates the connections between museum object, site and viewer. The work, by the artist Steffi Klenz, is the result of her having spent time at the Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery and Adult Education Centre looking at its artefacts and architecture. The exhibition runs until the weekend. See tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

THURSDAY The National Theatre Live’s latest production, entitled Julie, is being livestreamed into the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge as well as the Odeon and Trinity cinemas this evening at 7pm. This powerful new piece, loosely based on August Strindberg’s human power struggle play Miss Julie, is penned by Polly Stenham and stars

The Crown’s Vanessa Kirby and Eric Kofi Abrefa.

There’s still time to enjoy a Jazz on The Pantiles session before they finish at the end of this month. To make it a really special event, why not take advantage of One Warwick Park Hotel’s Bubbles and Burger deal, which costs just £10 per person? See onewarwickpark.co.uk

FRIDAY The Assembly Hall unlocks its doors to the general public as part of the town’s annual Heritage Open Days event. So if you’re interested in finding out more about some of the most historic buildings and landmarks in Tunbridge Wells, make sure you sign up for one of the many special behind-the-scenes events being organised

by The Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society. For more information, see thecivicsociety. org and heritageopendays.org.uk as well as our feature on pages 64-65 There’s entertainment of a different kind at another of Tunbridge Wells’ most famous spots, Dunorlan Park, this weekend: Circus Vegas. The world-renowned troupe pitches its big top in the park’s grounds from today until Sunday. Jaw-dropping trapeze artists will jostle alongside some of the funniest clowns to get your attention. The timings are: Friday 5pm and 7.45pm; Saturday 12noon, 3pm and 6pm and Sunday 2pm and 5pm. Tickets cost from £13 for adults and £7 for children.

Book at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Whether you want to get fitter, or are in training for a 5K or marathon, then taking part in the area’s weekly parkruns is a great way to either start your running routine or keep it topped up.

Dunorlan Park, Bedgebury and Castle Street in Tonbridge are just a few of the places that host them every Saturday morning at 9am.

For further information, visit parkrun.org.uk One of Bewl Water’s biggest annual attractions is the Dragon Boat Festival racing event, and it takes place today.

This is the 21st year the country park has hosted the charity event, which last year raised over £107,000 for 50 different good causes. Each

year, more than 1,000 people compete in this awesome display of paddle power, excitement and fun. And since the event began in 1998, it has raised over £2.7million. For more information about the day and about how to register a team, visit funraisers.org.uk There’s another chance to hone your artistic skills today at the Burrswood Health and Wellbeing centre in Groombridge courtesy of local artist Kerry Ingham, who will be teaching at an illustration and drawing workshop. Tickets to the event cost £60 per person and include art materials, lunch and a cream tea. For more information, visit burrswood.org.uk Today, as part of the Tunbridge Wells Heritage Open Days, you can visit St Barnabas’ Church from 9am to 3pm to discover the story of the Belgian refugees who came to Tunbridge Wells after the First World War invasion of their country by Germany.

For more information on the other heritage events happening at venues as varied as St Augustine’s Church

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Going Out

yet been down to have a tour of its microbrewery, hop gardens and hop farm, then what are you waiting for? Further information can be found at nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle Comedy Tapas kicks off again in the basement at the Sussex Arms this evening from 7pm. As well as comedians such as Helen Bauer and Ross Smith, you’ll also have the chance to catch TV favourite Shazia Mirza doing a turn. Tickets can be bought via comedytapas.co.uk

CURTAIN UP! Explore the Art Deco Assembly Hall Theatre as part of this year’s Heritage Open Days

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PICK OF THE WEEK: Weald of Kent Country Craft Show

Penshurst Place, September 7-9, 2018

MONDAY

and Spa Valley Railway, visit thecivicsociety.org and heritageopendays.org.uk

SUNDAY

Go Ape at Bedgebury is the perfect weekend activity for all family members and thrill seekers to get stuck into. Children must be aged at least ten years old and be a minimum of 1.4m tall in order to participate in this tree-top adventure. For tickets and timings, visit goape.co.uk The Chiddingstone Country and Food Festival takes place at Chiddingstone castle today from 11am until 4.30pm. This celebration of showground entertainments, heritage country sports and rural country crafts and food can be enjoyed by all the family. For more details, see chiddingstonecastle.org.uk Scotney Castle’s Hops and Honey weekend continues this Sunday from 10am-4pm, and their Hops and Harvest tours run throughout September at 11am and 2pm, so if you haven’t

BING-O The first Bing Live stage show comes to the Assembly Hall

The Meg, a film about a deep sea submersible pilot who revisits his past fears in the Mariana Trench, and accidentally unleashes the 70ft ancestor of the Great White Shark, believed to be extinct, is on at The Hop Farm’s Moonlight Drive-In Cinema all week until Thursday. Starring Jason Statham, it airs at 8pm. Tickets cost £25 per vehicle and can be booked at moonlightcinema.com Pashley Manor is currently hosting their Dahlia Days event, which runs until Saturday September 15. If you’re a fan of this fabulous flower then make sure you pay these glorious gardens in Ticehurst a visit. You can see lots of different varieties, pick up plenty of tips on how best to grow them, and of course buy some to plant in your own garden. For tickets and opening times, visit pashleymanorgardens.com

TUESDAY Every Tuesday at Christ Church in Tonbridge High Street, Les Puces French speaking classes take place. Aimed at pre-schoolers and primary pupils, the lessons are an hour long and are held at 9.30am and 4pm. Fees for half a term cost £60 per child. For more information, visit lespuces.co.uk CBeebies favourite Bing and his friends come to the Assembly Hall today and tomorrow to entertain little ones and their parents. Show times are at 1pm and 4pm today and 10am and 1pm tomorrow. Tickets cost from £14.75 for adults and £12.75 for children. For more details, see assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show returns to Penshurst Place this weekend.

The three-day event, which is regarded as one of the most prestigious craft shows in the country, promises to be a great family day out.

There will be over 150 exhibitors showcasing a range of exquisite items for the home and garden – from bespoke furniture to beautiful handmade clothing.

Visitors will also enjoy the many workshops, rural craft demonstrations and traditional fairground rides for children.

There will also be plenty of delicious food and drink to enjoy in the gorgeous surroundings, as well as live falconry displays. And there will be music from close harmony group The Haywood Sisters and Crooked Style, a two-piece country folk guitar group.

Tickets cost £10 per adult, £9 for senior citizens and £4 for children. There will also be free entry for RHS and English Heritage members (available for one day only).

To buy tickets, call the Ticket Hotline on 01425 277988 or visit ichfevents.co.uk

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Arts & CultureFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Take a historical tour of some

local hidden treasures

It’s that time of year again when a series of official Heritage Open Days takes place in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and the surrounding area. Eileen Leahy talks to one of the local organisers, Pat Wilson, about what you can expect to discover on your doorstep this year

ERITAGE OPEN DAYS are organised nationally every year by English Heritage to celebrate England’s architecture and culture by offering free access to properties and gardens that are either not usually open to the public, or would normally charge an entrance fee.

They have been going on, albeit in a fairly semiofficial way, since the early 1990s, and in 1994 were formally established as part of the country’s

MAGNIFICENT A rare chance to explore the delights of Decimus Burton’s childhood home, Mabledon

social and historical calendar of interesting things to do and see.

This now annual series of ‘open door’ events takes place over two weekends in September and showcases a plethora of historic buildings and landmarks – both big and small.

They are organised locally by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society and Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council in partnership with local groups. Most places are open for just one or two

days during the two weekends, so ensure you check up on timings before visiting.

Heritage Open Days are England’s contribution to the European Heritage Days movement, and have since grown into our country’s largest heritage festival.

“In 1991, the Council of Europe and the European Commission set up European Heritage Days to raise appreciation for Europe’s rich and diverse cultural assets and their need for care and protection,” explains Pat Wilson, one of the local Heritage Open Days organisers.

“The central principle was as simple as it was compelling: To throw open the doors to historic monuments and buildings, in particular those normally closed to the public. Today, they are held annually in September in 50 signatory states to the European Cultural Convention.”

He goes on to say that each country runs it in their ‘own way’, but the overall festival not only highlights the dazzling diversity of Europe’s heritage, but its intercultural links, too.

“It is thought that Tunbridge Wells’ open days began in the 1980s but then foundered, and were revived again by the Civic Society in 2003,” adds Pat. In essence, Heritage Open Days – no matter where they occur – are an opportunity to look inside the great historical houses, churches, castles, and quirkier places of interest.

The big attraction last year locally was Mabledon, the childhood home of Decimus Burton, which lies on the border between Southborough and Tonbridge and was designed and built by his father, James. “We had to turn people away from there,” says Pat. Other grand houses that will be opening up their doors again this year include Salomons on the Southborough border, which boasts a fascinating museum and interesting 19th-century laboratories.

Chagall The Skinners’ School is also welcoming people to browse around, as is the Opera House in Mount Pleasant Road. Although it’s now a pub, it was the predecessor to Glyndebourne and still puts on a full opera once a year.

There will also be bell-ringing sessions at St Peter’s Church in Bayhall Road, where, for the first time, members of the general public will have the chance to have a go.

And at St Barnabas’ Church in Camden Road there will be a fascinating exhibition about the Belgian refugees who came to Tunbridge Wells after fleeing their home country during the First World War. Other notable things to see are Chagall’s modernist stained glass memorial [right] to a drowned girl

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TAKE A TOUR Of parts of Tonbridge Castle this weekend at All Saints’ Church, Tudelely; the rare 13th-century wall paintings at St Thomas à Becket Church in Capel; and the impressive tombs of both Empire and Victorian dignitaries – including Jane Austen’s brother Henry – at Woodbury Park cemetery.

Tunbridge Wells welcomed an estimated 8,000 visitors to last year’s Heritage Open Days.

In the Tonbridge & Malling district there are 27 properties to visit as well as events and guided walks taking place across the borough, with highlights including the renovated Kings Hill Control Tower building; the 700-year-old moated manor house of Ightham Mote; the Tonbridge Lacemakers Open Day; the restored 13th-century Gatehouse at Aylesford Priory; and a fun heritage quiz at Leybourne Lakes Country Park.

Tonbridge Castle will be open this weekend [Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 September], offering partial tours to the public as well as its Medieval Fair, which will take place on the castle lawn from 10am to 5pm on both days, offering all the usual excitement of life in 15th-century England. You can expect to see

knights, jesters, music, dance and much more.

The Tonbridge Art Group, Tonbridge Civic Society, Tonbridge Historical Society and members of the Jane Austen Society will also be exhibiting at Tonbridge Castle throughout the weekend.

Other historic buildings to see include the Grade I-listed Schools at Somerhill; the Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul; St Saviour’s Church; and also the Oast Theatre, which will be offering a behindthe-scenes tour and an open-air art exhibition.

Cllr Maria Heslop, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, says: “Freely open to all, we have another chance to peek at this wealth of historic properties in the Tonbridge & Malling area, many of which are not generally open for viewing.

“It’s a great opportunity to find out more about the history of the place where we live, as well as being able to take part in the range of events and activities that are being hosted.”

Heritage Open Days run from Thursday September 6 to Sunday September 16, 2018

& Culture

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Going Out

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Broken Bones Matilda, Anna Howie Friday Jazz Club Night Saturday Into The Blue

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The Low Anthem

JAZZ ON THE PANTILES The Bandstand Music from 8pm-10pm (donations welcomed) Thursday Burrito Cat

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

live music With Paul Dunton

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OUNDING up this week’s live music, tonight [Wednesday] you can catch popular local acts Broken Bones Matilda and Anna Howie performing at The Grey Lady.

And this Thursday, the fantastic Burrito Cat play Jazz on The Pantiles.

There is an excellent line-up at The Forum on Friday evening, with Flowvers, Basement Cat and Station 47 all performing. On the same night, The Harveys & Guests will be playing at The Acoustic Night at The Royal Oak Pub. For fans of jazz and blues, the New Orleans Z’Hulus will

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

be at The Masonic Hall.

On Saturday night, you can catch Into The Blue at The Grey Lady, and Grosvenor Road at The Beau Nash Tavern, while renowned instrumental guitarist Sean de Burca will be performing at The Spa Hotel as part of a special Local & Live event with my Paul Dunton Orchestra.

Close out the weekend in style this Sunday with The Low Anthem and Ciaran Lavery at The Forum.

Looking ahead to next week, the superb Pete Webb & Friends will be at The Punch & Judy in Tonbridge on Tuesday night.

Event information at twforum.co.uk Friday Flowvers, Basement Cat, Station 47 Saturday The Smyths (Tribute to The Smiths) Sunday The Low Anthem, Ciaran Lavery

THE ROYAL OAK PUB Prospect Road Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Friday The Acoustic Night featuring The Harveys & Guests Broken Bones Matilda

THE MASONIC HALL St John’s Road, all details and tickets at twjazzclub.co.uk Friday New Orleans Z’Hulus

HILDEN PARK GOLF CENTRE Hildenborough. Music from 7.30pm Tickets £20, includes food Friday Isabella Coulstock, Steffan James, The Paul Dunton Orchestra

THE SPA HOTEL Mount Ephraim. Doors open 7pm Music from 8pm. Suggested amount for ticket donation £5/£10 Saturday Local & Live Presents: The Paul Dunton Orchestra & Sean de Burca

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Grosvenor Road

THE PUNCH & JUDY 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge, Free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday Pete Webb & Friends

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Fine cuisine with strong hints of Gallic charm Rendezvous brasserie brings a taste of Paris to Tunbridge Wells, writes Charlie Bond

SOUL IN A BOWL The French onion soup – sweet, sharp and creamy IN THE five years since it opened its doors, Rendezvous has established itself as one of Tunbridge Wells’ most popular eateries.

Consistently rated on TripAdvisor as one of the best restaurants in the town, this French-inspired brasserie, owned by Mark Harper, has earned a reputation for top food and excellent service.

So today I’m here to find out just what makes this restaurant one of the town’s treasures.

We visit on a Thursday evening and enter into a buzzy yet cosy atmosphere, where groups are catching up, couples are enjoying romantic meals and each person is greeted warmly as though they’re one of the family as they arrive.

What strikes me immediately is how charming this place is; I feel as though I could easily have just stepped into a bistro in Montmartre. Mauve painted stairs, exposed brick in the bar area and well-worn dark wood all adds to the continental feel and intimate setting. Candles flicker on tables and fairy lights twinkle in the windows.

We’re shown to our table, right by the window overlooking the street, and after settling on a glass each of the house Cabernet Sauvignon (£3.95) we focus our attention on the menu.

When coming to take our order, Mark explains that as well as using local suppliers, they’re keen to use as much fresh, local produce as possible.

Many of the specials have been created around key ingredients they’ve sourced – like the courgettes grown in the restaurant’s own back garden, the figs from a tree next door, or other fruits and vegetables brought in by customers when their glut is too big for their own kitchens.

Magical To start, from the specials chalkboard adorning one of the walls, I choose the (home-grown) courgette flower stuffed with a chicken and lemon mousse, finished with a tomato coulis (£5.95), while from the regular menu my guest opts for the French onion soup with a Gruyère-topped croute, served with crusty bread (£5.95).

My starter is not only beautifully presented, but it tastes delicious, too. The soft mousse is wrapped inside parcels of crisp courgette flower, and with zesty citrus flavours, tangy tomato and an earthiness from the plant itself, this is a very enjoyable start to my Rendezvous experience.

My guest’s soup is equally moreish, offering an extensive flavour profile with sweetness, a vinegary sharpness and a delicious creaminess courtesy of the Gruyère.

Plates and bowls all but licked clean, we sip our wine and watch the last of the sun fade from the sky over the Tunbridge Wells rooftops outside.

As soon as the natural light has gone, this place becomes all the more magical; bathed in the candlelight glow, this is hygge at its best.

Next up comes our main courses, and fish is the dish of the day – for me, the swordfish steak – pan-fried with ginger, garlic and lime and served with new potatoes, green beans and a seafood bisque (£15.95), and for my guest, from the specials board the large fishcake with a mussel and rosemary cream sauce, poached egg and tenderstem broccoli (£15).

The swordfish is tender and succulent. Teamed with the creamy bisque and subtle hints of garlic and ginger, it proves to be an excellent choice. The flavours are delicate and the bisque especially is divine; creamy and tangy with a touch of salt. Just heavenly.

My guest’s fishcake turns out to be a great choice, too – inside it’s flaky, outside it’s crisp and the egg on the top – well, she deems it ‘perfect’, which from an egg purist such as herself is praise indeed.

The last stop on this culinary journey is of course, dessert. My sweet treat of choice is the

warm ginger pudding, served with caramel sauce and homemade honeycomb ice cream (£6.95).

This is a seriously good pudding – the sponge is perfect, the caramel sauce is rich and smooth yet not sickly, and as for that homemade ice cream – wow. I need the recipe.

My guest’s dessert is perfect for warmer days and for those with a sweet tooth; she’s selected the iced nougat, (£6.95) which is creamy, sweet, fruity and refreshing at the same time.

We let our meals go down while sipping on coffee and peppermint tea, and note that we’ve been here for several hours, savouring the food and soaking up the atmosphere.

We’re not the only ones either; most other visitors have had the same idea, and even though their plates are long empty, they’re still relishing the laid-back French vibes offered here.

I can see why Rendezvous has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike – it is something really special.

I’ll certainly be returning again soon – after all, I still need that ice cream recipe…

GOOD TASTE: Head Chef John Boreham likes local produce, some from the restaurant’s own garden

drink

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Last of the summer wine

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OMETHING dry and zippy for fish or fruity, chilled and red for an endof-season barbecue or picnic? Here, Times Drinks Editor James Viner savours the flavours of three outstandingly tasty, light-bodied late summer wines, including a delightful and refreshingly uncomplicated rosé made from Turkey’s version of the gamay noir (Beaujolais) grape.

There’s also a must-try bottle of awardwinning gin, the go-to hooch of choice for many us, from Aldi. Bon appétit and cheers to a glorious end of summer!

1. SAPPY BISTRO RED TO LIGHTLY CHILL FOR BARBECUES AND PICNICS

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& Drink

2017 Réserve de Pizay BeaujolaisVillages, France (13%, £8, The Co-op) The gamay noir grape makes quintessentially summery wines overflowing with youthful verve and flirtatiousness. This example makes an instant impression as it enters the mouth with its gossamer tannins and juicy, silky, dark plum, violet, redcurrant and black cherry fruit – flavours that persist through the long palate. While certainly no thumper, this charmer is nonetheless supremely appetising and impresses in an understated fashion.

It has bright, fresh acidity and a pleasingly tart and refreshing finish. Chill a bottle for 20 minutes

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for barbecue sausages/red peppers, seared swordfish/tuna steaks, aubergine parmigiana, cold meat leftovers, cheese [especially Époisses and Maroilles] and raspberries.

this ever-reliable buzzing bargain white Bordeaux. Outstanding value from The Wine Society. Winner.

2. MUST-TRY CRISP, DRY, UNOAKED AND AROMATIC WHITE BORDEAUX

2017 Kayra Beyaz Kalecik Karasi Rosé, Denizli, Turkey (11.5%, £12.42-£13.46, Strictly Wine/Novel Wines) Pink grapefruit, watermelon and wild strawberry meets raspberry in this rare and scented pale pink, light-bodied rosé made from indigenous grape Kalecik Karasi farmed (at 850m altitude) in the Denizli region in the western part of Turkey facing the Aegean Sea and Greek Islands. Light enough to be drunk as a lunchtime aperitif, but with enough intensity, plus crisp, tactile and slippery acidity to tackle seafood, sushi, BBQ lamb/ mackerel, tagines, tomato salads [avoid too much vinegar], oriental cuisine and even Pennard Vale goat’s cheese.

Treat yourself and sip through the end of summer in style with this Turkish cracker, it’s a stunning, but unusual, rosé of sheer summery splendour. A major surprise package, it will be admired by many, and not unreasonably so.

Track it down now!

2017 Dourthe N°1 Sauvignon Blanc, Bordeaux, France (12.5%, £8.50, The Wine Society – available from September 7) The 100% sauvignon blanc, Dourthe N°1 white celebrates its 30th anniversary with the stylish 2017 vintage, which is an exercise in restrained elegance oozing zesty freshness. It is medium-bodied with inviting notes of grapefruit, lemon, nettle and gooseberry. This is an absolute pleasure to drink and is exactly what one looks for in a beautifully wrought entry-level white Bordeaux. So much here to enjoy in the warm latesummer weather. I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t sing its praises. Try with seafood, especially oysters and prawns, grilled/barbecue fish, shellfish, sushi, warm goat’s cheese salad, avocado with prawns, goat’s cheese and St Félicien. Be sure to add the on-sale date of September 7 to your diary and fill your fridge with

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3. LIGHT ROSÉ TURKISH TREAT FOR LATE SUMMER LUNCHES

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4. GIN-UINELY GREAT VALUE AWARDWINNING SUPERMARKET GIN

Topaz Blue Premium London Dry Gin (40%, £13.99, Aldi) According to the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, transactions of ‘mother’s ruin’ in the UK have broken another record, reaching £1.5billion or approximately 55 million bottles in the 12 months to the end of March. Unlike ‘peak Prosecco’, the gin trade shows no signs of slowing down, and is set to become a £2billion industry by the end of 2018. Aldi has just won both Gold and Silver for its popular Topaz Blue Premium Gin and well-known Oliver Cromwell London Dry Gin at the highly-regarded Spirits Business Gin Masters, beating off stiff competition from bottles costing up to twice the price. With its undisputed botanical intrigue and robust 40%, ABV Blue Topaz is by far my favourite supermarket pick for a G&T or dry Martini – and a screamingly good bargain. The flavours roll on relentlessly, like waves crashing on a beach in the darkness. Further evidence that we have a new top-flight bargain gin in our midst. Do not hesitate, readers, especially if you have a crowd in! Explore Aldi’s awardwinning spirits range at its recently launched online delivery service (aldi.co.uk/spirits), where you can stock up on its latest Gin Festival range – a collection of on-trend, craft-style and delicious brands, including Beckett’s London Dry Gin (£24.99) and the Sri-Lankan Colombo No 7 Gin (£19.99).

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Travel

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Krakow: Could this take the

lead as Europe’s coolest city?

Cheap, cheerful and edgy, the Polish city now rivals Amsterdam in popularity. Stephen White recommends what to see and do there

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HE party is in full swing as we walk into Plac Nowy (New Square) in the centre of Kazimierz a little after 10pm on a hot August Saturday.

Tables and chairs from cafés and bars that surround the scruffy but buzzing concrete market area, fill the pavements.

Almost all of them are occupied by tourists, including groups of lairy, dressed

‘Krakow – the second largest city in Poland, and one of the oldest – plays host to an astonishing ten million visitors a year’

BUSTLING Grodzka Street gives a taste of historic Krakow

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

up ‘nurses’ and ‘convicts’ who look determined to drink the city dry as they shout their way from one drinking hole to the next.

Krakow – the second largest city in Poland, and one of the oldest – plays host to an astonishing ten million visitors a year – and most of them head for the city’s Main Square or the rejuvenated Jewish quarter, Kazimierz.

But these busy old streets were not

always a place of such merriment.

Krakow’s Jewish community thrived here for more than 500 years and, by the beginning of the Second World War, had swelled to some 68,000 people – about a quarter of the city’s population.

Amid diabolical scenes of brutality and depravation, that number nosedived almost immediately after the Nazis swept into town, in September, 1939.

Some 52,000 Jews were forcibly deported, suffering atrocities in the nearby Plaszow labour camp (the setting for Steven Spielberg’s epic 1993 film Schindler’s List) and the AuschwitzBirkenau and Belzec death camps.

After the war, Kazimierz was largely abandoned, with many of its buildings becoming derelict and its streets dangerous.

But since 1989, when democracy returned to the country, Polish Jews have been free to reclaim confiscated buildings.

Low property prices encouraged entrepreneurs to invest, and students looking for cheap accommodation followed, making their homes among the ancient synagogues and packed cemeteries.

The ensuing years have seen a remarkable turnaround – the area is now home to a trendy jumble of tiny galleries, quirky shops, vintage clothing shops and a range of bars and restaurants to suit every taste and wallet.

OLD FAVOURITE Surf ‘n’ Turf served at Mavericks Restaurant

WHERE TO STAY

Vienna House Andel’s Hotel One of the nicest and handiest hotels is this four-star property, a short walk from Krakow’s Main Square. Built in 2007, it has 159 rooms – all big, beautiful and extremely comfortable.

It sits right next to a huge new shopping centre (Galeria Krakowska) and opposite Krakow Glowny (the main railway station) as well as the city’s bus station.

And the everything-you-could-possibly-

think-of breakfasts are a big hit. Rooms cost from £72 per night. Visit viennahouse.com

WHERE TO EAT

Mavericks Restaurant, at the Vienna House Andel’s Hotel In this brightly coloured restaurant, Chef Marcin Socha and his staff serve up a deliciously eclectic Californian tasting/ sharing menu with various Asian, Mexican and European influences.

Expect a host of big platters piled high with excellent steak, prawns, cod, tuna, tacos, burgers and various accompaniments.

Fine Californian wines match the food perfectly. A six-course tasting menu for four costs about £18pp. Wine costs from £20-£55 per bottle. Visit viennahouse.com Kogel Mogel Restaurant This superbly furnished traditional restaurant in Sienna Street, near the Main Square, runs a hands-on lesson on how to make pierogi (Polish dumplings).

There’s also the opportunity to sample a variety made properly and boiled to perfection. Try them stuffed with potatoes and onion, stuffed with minced veal and served with mushroom sauce, and stuffed with stewed sauerkraut and mushrooms.

Dumplings workshops cost £52 per group (minimum seven people).

Pierogi dishes from £6-£8pp.

Visit kogel-mogel.pl/en

WHERE TO DRINK

Pijalnia Wodki I Piwa (Vodka and Beer Bar), Old Town No-frills bars, with their trademark old newspapers plastered all over their walls, are springing up all over Poland.

Here you can eat, drink, and become very merry on a modest budget. Three pints of good local beer, a small red wine and three shots of lemon vodkas (it’s homemade and tastes just like lemon meringue with a kick) costs less than £10.

Snacks at less than £2 include beef tartare (served with a raw egg), herring in oil, white borscht (classic Polish soup) and a selection of toasties.

More substantial, similarly low-cost meals are available. Visit pwip.com.pl

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Starka Restaurant & Vodkas, Kazimierz The choice of flavoured vodkas sold here is ridiculous, delicious, and they are all made by staff member Gabriel.

Take your pick from a list that includes delightfully intense concoctions such as cranberry, ginger, raspberry, pear, rowanberry, blueberry, apple, mango, mandarin and pineapple.

At less than £2 a pop (for a large glass), it could easily get silly. Visit starka-restauracja.pl

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Travel

WELL SEASONED One of the many tunnels at the Wieliczka Salt Mine

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HOW TO GET THERE Wizzair (wizzair.com), which operates 80 routes from nine UK airports, flies to Katowice from Bristol, Doncaster-Sheffield, Glasgow and Luton from £17.99 (one way).

The bus journey from Katowice Airport to Krakow takes about two hours and costs about £11pp (one way).

For more information on the destination, see poland.travel/en and visitkrakow.com

WHAT TO DO

Krakow Old Town This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the city’s Main Square (Rynek Glowny) – the biggest medieval town square in Europe – which LINED UP Flavoured vodkas hosts dozens of festivals every year, including Krakow’s famous Christmas Market.

In the middle of the square is the magnificent Cloth Hall, home to upmarket craft stalls, cafés and a museum.

On its eastern edge you will find the striking 14th-century, brick-built St Mary’s Basilica – listen for the trumpet call played from the top of the tallest tower on the hour every hour.

Auschwitz The former Polish military barracks is located in Oswiecim, about 40 miles to the west of Krakow.

In 1941, a much bigger camp, Auschwitz IIBirkenau, was built less than two miles away.

They are harrowing but important places to see.

Up to 1.5 million people are believed to have died at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the majority of them in gas chambers immediately after arrival, their bodies burned in huge, purpose-built furnaces.

Visitors are advised to book a full-day tour with an agency (they are everywhere in Krakow; expect to pay between £25-£35pp), which will arrange transport and a guide.

Visit auschwitz.org/en

Wieliczka Salt Mine Built on nine levels, this 700-year-old salt mine, a 30-minute drive south-east of Krakow, stretches for more than 180 miles and

reaches a depth of almost 1,000ft.

The three-hour underground visit includes about two miles of walking, hundreds of steps, and a peek at more than 20 chambers (on three levels, max depth 450ft), all hand-hewn from the glistening rock salt.

The chambers include magnificent chapels (the 100m-long St Kinga’s Chapel among them), a ballroom, dozens of superb statues (one is of ‘local lad’ Pope John Paul II), and a very good restaurant. Admission and guided tours from £18.50. Visit wieliczka-saltmine.com

NEVER FORGET The horrors of Auschwitz

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Life&Times

Motoring

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Motoring News

A look at what’s happening in and around the world of motoring

BMW’s new Z4 Roadster is unveiled in the USA

Hybrid vans could slash costs for businesses travelling to London BUSINESSES taking the plunge with a plug-in hybrid van would see it pay for itself if they used the London Congestion Zone regularly, says Ian Porter, Chief Engineer for Ford’s top-selling Transit Custom panel van.

Porter is the driving force behind the Transit Custom PHEV, set to be the first purpose-built hybrid van on the market when it goes on sale next year.

“There’s increasing pressure on diesels in urban environments,” said Porter at a press event.

“There’s definitely a strong ‘want’ from customers – but going fully electric brings concerns with range, purchase cost and the lack of infrastructure.

“Opting to go PHEV still gives the capability for zero-emission motoring, but there’s no range anxiety, the smaller battery won’t affect the payload – and it’s simple and quick to recharge. And any typical business going into the [London] congestion zone more than once or twice a week would see the van pay for itself.”

Very few vans qualify for exemption at present. The congestion charge is currently £11.50 per day, so opting for the hybrid could save businesses more than £1,000 per year if they drive into the zone twice a week.

Those using the zone five days a week would see that figure leap to more than £2,700 over a typical year.

AFTER months of teasing with the Z4 concept car, BMW has revealed the full production model in California.

Co-developed with Toyota, the new roadster will go on sale early next year.

Proportionally, it’s a world away from its predecessor. It has a shorter wheelbase and more purposeful scale, with a short front overhang, gaping kidney grilles and a rising beltline.

Gone is the heavy, folding hard top, too – replaced by an electric fabric roof for added simplicity plus lightness, and which can be raised or lowered in just ten seconds.

The model revealed in America is a high-powered M40i, with a 335bhp 3.0-litre straight-six engine under the

bonnet and electronically controlled sports suspension. Plus, impressively, 0-60mph will take just 4.4 seconds.

BMW claims perfect 50:50 weight distribution and the ideal stance for ‘inspiringly agile handling’ and ‘intense driving pleasure’.

On show was the First Edition trim, with unique Frozen Orange paintwork, 19-inch light-alloy wheels and a decorative leather interior with a Harman Kardon sound system.

The interior has been kept under wraps, but the images show a compact cabin filled with classic BMW design cues, and with the dashboard angled towards the driver for a more engaging ‘cockpit’ feel.

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Dashboard warning lights are a mystery MORE than half of UK motorists are unable to identify dashboard warning lights, according to a new survey.

Vehicle data expert HPI conducted a survey of 1,000 drivers and found that 59% struggled to identify what common warning lights mean.

A staggering 96% didn’t recognise a braking system issue light, while 95% were unable to identify the warning light associated with a diesel particulate filter problem. Furthermore, 93% didn’t know the symbol for a coolant issue, 64% for a tyre pressure problem, 59% for an airbag alert, 56% for an anti-lock braking system SOS, 30% an engine warning, 19% an oil signal and 15% a battery charge caution.

Some respondents even thought the warning lights were good things.

Men were faster to react to dashboard warning lights, taking an average of seven days and eight hours, compared with eight days and nine hours for women. People aged 55 and over were the fastest age group to react, taking 6.4 days, whereas 18 to 24 year olds were the slowest, taking 10.6 days.

HPI estimates UK 77,760 drivers would neglect a dashboard warning light altogether. Of those who would elect to fix the issue, 41% said they would be quickest to address the engine warning light before anything else.

HPI Consumer Marketing Director Fernando Garcia said: “With so many drivers on the road in 2018, it’s hard to believe the lack of knowledge amongst UK motorists. Warning lights should always be treated as a matter of urgency, and leaving it to sort out a week later could risk safety on the roads.”

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Recruitment

Wednesday September 5 | 2018

WITH THE

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

CODEWORD 4

5

14

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16

17

18

Y

6

7

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20

T

8

9

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A B C D E F G H I J K L MNO P Q R S T U VWX Y Z 18

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23 26

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2 20

16 14

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7

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7

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T

23

22 11

8

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17

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7

14

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17 15

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2 1

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20 12

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1 3 2 8 2 7 5 1 2 8 9 1 4 5 8 9 3 5 4 7 1 6 4 8 2 6 1 5 4

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

23 5

T

24

20

14

20

10 19

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17

2

13

6

4

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17 7

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Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

9

3 4

20

23 14

16

Codeword:

2

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

3

DIFFICULTY RATING:★★★★

2

8 6 2

8 1

3 9 2 4 3

3 5 6

1

2

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★✩✩✩

CLASSIFIEDS

Life&Times

Puzzles

In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply.

Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.

Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue

F O R G E S I L O N Q U I C GO U T I E I S A R E C A L L K A AWN I N G B E T O J O S E E U S N A T R D H E L Y S E E

N A K S D G A Q L X I C C H E N

EW E A N T S U A S A R N O I N U A S

E S T A D M E R M P U R T Z I V A L I E N E S G T E S E R

Sudoku:

1 6 9 7 4 8 3 2 5

3 2 8 6 5 9 4 1 7

5 4 7 3 2 1 9 8 6

2 7 4 5 8 6 1 3 9

9 5 6 1 3 2 8 7 4

8 1 3 9 7 4 5 6 2

4 3 2 8 9 7 6 5 1

1 3 8 9 4 5 2 6 7

7 9 6 1 3 4 5 2 8

5 7 2 8 9 3 6 1 4

7 8 1 4 6 5 2 9 3

6 9 5 2 1 3 7 4 8

Jigsaw Sudoku:

6 5 9 4 7 2 3 8 1

2 1 5 7 6 8 9 4 3

8 6 3 5 1 7 4 9 2

4 2 1 3 5 6 8 7 9

3 4 7 2 8 9 1 5 6

9 8 4 6 2 1 7 3 5

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

78

Life&Times

Sport

timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk FORPlease EVENsend MORE NEWS VISIT: sports stories to: newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk Wednesday September 5 | 2018

TJs forced to fight hard after flying starting to season

By Adam Hookway RUGBY: THE new season in National Two South saw Tonbridge Juddians welcome the Birmingham & Solihull Bees to The Slade for the Midlanders’ debut at this level.

The campaign was off to a flyer for the hosts as they reclaimed the ball from the restart twice within the opening five minutes, cutting through the Bees with first Rob White and then Toby May crossing for tries.

Will Robinson added one conversion and three new recruits to the TJ ranks over the summer had already got on the scoreboard.

The Bees did not crumble, and although they had to play much of the first half in a defensive line they held reasonably firm.

One of their few forays upfield secured a well-worked try which reminded TJs they could not take the win for granted.

Just as half-time loomed, May made ground

down the left and offloaded to Finlay Coxon-Smith to touch down. Robinson converted to ease TJs into a 19-7 lead at half-time.

The Bees’ defensive effort was expected to take its toll but they remained persistent thanks to some astute rotation.

A catch-and-drive try from close quarters kept the visitors in the game at 19-12 and they continued to deny TJs any time and space.

A disorganised defensive scrum from TJs allowed the Bees’ scrum-half to scamper through from 20 metres and suddenly it was all square with time still on the clock.

Proceedings became a little frantic and fractious at that point, and Robinson slotted a penalty from 40 metres to edge TJs back in front 22-19.

The home side then managed to keep the ball close to seal victory and the hard workout will be a huge benefit in the games ahead.

TJs now face a Kent derby at Canterbury on Saturday [September 8, kick-off 3pm].

PHOTO: Adam Hookway

Tonbridge Juddians 22 Birmingham & Solihull 19

BREAK THE ICE Toby May touches down early in the match

Academy’s Rigby runs show for fluent Wells Tunbridge Wells 35 Hertford 27 squad has remained largely the same but is bolstered by big second row Chris Pentney, inside centre Tom Bailey and back reserve Henry Toomer, who all played last weekend.

After just four minutes, Frank Reynolds sent a penalty kick to the corner and Josh Pankhurst peeled down the blindside from the lineout to touch down on the left, Reynolds converting.

Hertford got on the scoresheet at the end of the first quarter, their scrum-half darting down the narrow blindside to offload for the winger to score an unconverted try in the corner.

PILE DRIVER Mike Hathaway breaks through a tackle

PHOTO: Bruce Elliott

Sin-bin

By Owain Withers RUGBY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS’ second season in the London & South East Premier League began with a close-fought encounter at St Marks.

A fifth-place finish exceeded expectations last year in Wells’ first season at level five but with Hertford having finished one place higher, the pipe opener was likely to be in the balance.

WIth Ryan Taylor-Dennehy as captain, the

After Richard Webster was pulled down just short of the line, Hertford conceded a penalty for offside and their flanker was sent to the sin-bin.

On the half-hour Pankhurst ripped the ball from an attacker and threw it deep to TaylorDennehy. A series of passes sent Bailey free down the right-hand touchline to dot down under the posts, allowing an easy conversion.

A minute before half-time Hertford looked to play from deep but the ball was knocked on and Reynolds reacted quickest to hack through and score, then convert to make it 21-5 at the interval.

Hertford struck first after the break. From a scrum in the Wells 22 they moved the ball wide for a well converted try in the corner.

Next it was Webster’s turn to hack through from a ruck in the Hertford 22 and secure the try bonus point, which was converted.

In the final quarter Hertford enjoyed their best period and scored as they broke through the centre for the prop to dot down against the post.

With 10 minutes to go they received a penalty in front of the posts which was successfully kicked to narrow the score to 28-22.

Mike Hathaway at openside then secured a turnover on the left and offloaded to Nick Doherty who strolled over for the converted try.

There was still time for Hertford to score their pitch bonus point try from the length of the pitch, though the conversion was missed so they didn’t secure the losing bonus point.

It was an impressive start from Wells, and Academy graduate Charlie Rigby was man of the match, showing impressive control at scrum-half.

Head Coach Simon Whatling said: “it was a contest between two teams who clearly were rusty, but we had fantastic character and work rate. It was great to see a change of mind-set.”

Wimbledon, who were relegated from National Two South last season, visit St Marks on Saturday [September 8, kick-off 3pm].

Bidborough win village title again Farr’s all-round heroics CRICKET: BIDBOROUGH retained their Kent County Village League Division One title after winning 15 out of 18 games, and it came down to a winner-takes-all contest in the final match at Four Elms.

The visitors won the toss and chose to bat first.

They posted a total of 189 for 9 thanks to captain James Baldock leading from the front, opening up with 65. He put on 86 for the second wicket with Stuart Pinchin (26). Ben Crowhurst was the pick of the Four Elms bowlers with 3 for 21.

Crowhurst remained resolute at the top of the order as his team mates fell around him, and hit three sixes in his innings of 56.

However, the only support came from Rob Smith, with 44 not out at No 9.

The reply fell 27 runs short on 162 for 9 with Anthony Bouffe picking up 3 for 22 and his opening partner Rob Ackerman taking 2 for 17 in a disciplined display.

Baldock said afterwards: “Winning the league is always a huge team effort, and winning back-to-back titles is especially difficult.

“We have some very talented players committed to our great village team. The lads worked hard and deserved the victory.”

keep Cowdrey flying high

Cowdrey 212-9 beat Rainham 171 by 41 runs

By Stuart Clarke

CHAMPIONS: (Back, l-r) Andy Healy, Anthony Bouffe, Rob Ackerman, Howard Nankivell, Robin Underwood, Daniel Page, Jonathan Shepherdson, Dale Hillhouse, Dave Pinchin; (front) Tim Johnson, James Baldock, Stuart Pinchin

CRICKET: THE finale to Cowdrey’s title-winning season in Kent League Division Four did not seem to be going to plan as they were reduced to 76 for 7 after choosing to bat first.

Australian Ashley Borella (33), captaining the side in the absence of , was the only top-order player to make any impression as Harvey Crump was the chief destroyer, finishing with 5 for 42.

But down the order Thom Brown (38) and Nick Farr dug the home side out of a hole, putting on 91 runs for the eighth wicket.

Farr recorded his first fifty for the club in compiling for a First XI career-best 61 and Cowdrey managed to post 212 for 9.

In response Rainham’s top order also struggled in similar circumstances and stumbled to 54 for 5 thanks to the efforts of opening bowlers Ryan Addison (3 for 32) and the inspired Farr (4 for 58).

The introduction of Gautam Juneja, who was celebrating his 17th birthday, broke the stubborn resistance of the middle order, the young leg spinner finishing with 2 for 21 in his nien overs.

Oliver Lea dug in at No 7 and proved a thorn in the Cowdrey attack’s side but Borella trapped him leg before to leave Rainham all out for 171, 41 runs short.

Cowdrey topped the division by 48 points from Catford Wanderers with Tonbridge finishing in third place, just missing out on promotion.

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Wednesday September 5 | 2018

Sport

Ladies make good impression Herne Bay 2 Tonbridge Angels Ladies 1 FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS Ladies’ hearts were broken in their opening league match of the season as hosts Herne Bay grabbed the winner two minutes from the end.

It was their first outing in Division One East of the South East Counties League after securing promotion at the end of the last campaign.

The goal came from a well-worked corner routine with the Herne Bay skipper Kate Foster beating the offside trap to score with a free header from close range.

It was a particularly crushing way to end a second half during which the Angels had looked the more likely of the two teams to score.

Tonbridge started poorly and went behind after five minutes to Jemma Barton’s header.

A quick recovery was needed and with the manager Dan Couldridge making some positional

changes the Angels began to make their own mark on the match.

Parity was restored on 29 minutes when Flo Anastasiou’s corner was met by Sam Burton who crashed a thunderous shot against the crossbar.

The rebound fell straight back to Burton, who headed it into the net.

High tempo Promotion-chasing Herne Bay had significant chances to regain the lead, twice hitting the woodwork and being thwarted by the Angels goalkeeper Sam Wright.

The Angels delivered a controlled second-half performance but struggled to find a cutting edge.

A free kick from Kelly Moran almost found Megan Akehurst at the far post but she was

unable to get a touch on the cross. Then a long clearance by Burton found Becky Mackley through on goal with just the keeper to beat but her first-time shot fizzed just wide.

The game continued at a high tempo with both teams looking for a winner, but Herne Bay who ended the match the strongest and denied Tonbridge the point they deserved.

Manager Dan Couldridge praised his side, saying: “Of course we are all disheartened after the effort that everyone put in today.

“We knew that fine margins on the day would make the difference in this division and that has certainly been the case here.

“Herne Bay have had some phenomenal preseason results and will be challenging to win this division so to come here with players missing or not quite at their best and still almost come away with at least a draw gives us huge positives to take away.”

Angels remain on top despite conceding first goal of season Tonbridge Angels 2 Wingate & Finchley 1 FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS continued their unbeaten start to the Bostik Premier League season and remained on top of the table but they finally conceded a goal in the sixth outing – and suffered an injury to Tom Beere.

Playmaker Beere was taken off on a stretcherin the 19th minute after landing badly on his knee but he is expected to recover soon.

Wingers Adem Ramadan and Joe Turner were in fine form, causing problems throughout the game for the Wingate defence.

The first goal came in the 32nd minute, with Jack Parter’s cross meeting captain Tom Parkinson’s head to put the Angels 1-0 up.

The second came just six minutes later, with a good free-kick by Turner being headed off the underside of the crossbar and into the net by centre-back Sonny Miles.

Tonbridge’s run of five clean sheets came to an end on the stroke of half time, with Tommy Tejan-Sie putting the ball past Jonny Henly from a short corner.

Wingate looked brighter in the opening stages of the second half, but Tonbridge woke up and threatened with many chances.

Runs by James Folkes, Turner and Ramadan troubled the defence, and Tommy Whitnell came agonisingly close to scoring late on.

PHOTO: David Couldridge

By Max Meads

Manager Steve McKimm said: “We created lots of chances. We gave away a sloppy goal but all in all I’m over the moon.

“The scoreline could have been a lot more but I’m very pleased with the boys’ application. We dominated possession and it was comfortable.”

Record partnership seals third place Bickley Park 254-4 lost to Tunbridge Wells 258-4 by 6 wkts

By Alan Cutts CRICKET: TUNBRIDGE WELLS completed a successful campaign in style at Bickley Park, but were left to rue a narrow two-wicket defeat to Lordswood a fortnight before that may have denied them the Kent League Premier title.

The visitors won the toss and chose to chase on a wicket which promised plenty of runs, and the first three batsmen all dug in and made fifties.

The openers Alex Moen (81) and Alex Fullarton (62) carefully worked their way to a hundred from 26 overs, but Dave Smith (2 for 63) finally broke through at 135 in the 36th over.

Fullarton finally departed but that only brought a third Alex, Darroch (51), to the crease and he at once injected a note of aggression,

racing to a 37-ball fifty.

The score rattled on to 240 or 2 with Warren Lee (29) striking two sixes and the home side closed on 254 for 4.

Ari Karvelas ended his maiden season in the Kent League with 34 wickets, placing him second among leading wicket-takers in the top division.

The reply was soon in serious disarray as Xavier Darroch hit the stumps twice and Warren Lee added a third victim, all within the first four overs, to leave Wells on 11 for 3.

However, Christian Davis and Kent youth player Julian O’Riordan now came together to set a new club record partnership for the fourth wicket in the Premier Division.

Growing in confidence, the pair both struck the ball cleanly and soon they were scoring at seven

runs an over without taking any risks.

Davis duly reached his century off 106 deliveries, and although the scoring rate began to slow, the target was now within range.

The centurion was finally caught off Andrew Harriott for a superb 130 off 124 balls with 16 fours and a six and he had added 221 with the younger O’Riordan.

His partner remained undefeated on 97 to see his side to victory, though the teenager was unfortunate to be denied a century as Wells reached 258 for 4 with 16 balls to spare.

The victory kept Wells in third place in the table, their joint highest placing in the top flight – achieved previously in 1998 and 2009.

The title went to Blackheath for the first time in 34 years, by a single point from Lordswood, with Wells 15 points further back and Sevenoaks Vine in fourth place.

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79

Shaw’s double puts Rusthall into next round Erith & Belvedere 1 Rusthall 3 FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL successfully negotiated their first FA Vase encounter at Park View Road with two goals from Peter Shaw.

The visitors took the lead against the run of play after 12 minutes. Callum Gallie delivered a low cross from the left wing and a mis-kicked clearance ricocheted to Shaw, who drilled a left-footed drive across the goalkeeper and into the far corner from 10 yards.

Erith & Belvedere deservedly levelled 20 minutes later from a corner. Rusthall failed to clear their lines and Robert Curtis flicked the ball up and hit a sweet volley into the top corner.

In the 37th minute Daniel Teeley dived high to his right to prevent Rusthall’s Robbie Bissett from scoring with left-footed free kick from 25 yards.

The home side should have taken the lead when Guyliano-Tresor Mpungi fired a shot against the top of the near post just before half-time.

Crucial In the second half, Harry Harding raced on to a flicked header and shot from 10 yards but Rusthall keeper Callum Christie deflected the ball away with his left foot.

It proved to be a crucial save as Rusthall took the lead soon after. Jordan Anderson played a pass inside to Sam Murray. From 30 yards out the substitute hit a left-footed drive that crashed off the top of the right-hand post. Shaw nipped in first and forced the ball home from close range.

Another Bissett free kick was parried by the keeper but Joe Fuller crossed and Nick Harvey’s header struck the far post.

The hosts should have equalised when substitute striker Reginald Yembra hit the bar, with a first-time shot from eight yards out.

With five minutes left Rusthall ensured victory.

Callum Ridley brought another diving save from Teeley and his follow-up header hit the bar.

Murray latched on to the loose ball and forced it past Teeley into the net.

Rusthall’s joint-manager Andrew McKechnie said: “It was a professional performance. The first half we didn’t look at the races.

“In the second half we upped the pace and played a lot more football. I think we were the better team.”

Rusthall travel to Guildford City in the next round on 15 September. First they face Punjab United in the Southern Counties East League Premier Division on Saturday [September 8, kick-off 3pm].