Times of Tunbridge Wells 20th December 2017

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

‘We aim to serve others with humility and love, reflecting the hospitality that Jesus offered to all people’ Bennett students Molly Smith and Katie Wassell

PHOTO: Craig Matthews

To all our readers & advertisers

How we’re keeping the INSIDE spirit of Christmas alive MONOPOLY BIG HIT Tunbridge Wells board game is biggest seller Page 5

Four stories this week that between them show how our community comes together at this time of the year, across all levels, to help others less fortunate. By Jonathan Banks The school…

There are the students at Bennett Memorial who have filled almost 1,400 shoeboxes with gifts, including hats and scarves along with pens and paper, that are on their way around the world to help bring a smile to the face of less privileged youngsters. It’s all part of something called Operation Christmas Child that the school has been working with for more than ten years. Bennett Memorial students Molly Smith and Katie Wassell (pictured) told the Times: “One of our key values as a Church of England School is ‘compassionate service’. We aim to serve others with humility and love, reflecting the hospitality that Jesus offered to all people.” Full story see page 4

son. Last Christmas the figure was 90. Nourish Co-Chair Olga Johnson [pictured] said: “We are experiencing an increase in demand full stop, not just this season.” In its first full year in 2013 the foodbank had 2,800 referrals. This year the figure has grown to 5,000. Full story see page 4

COMMON GROUND

New information panels for the town’s commons Page 12

The toy appeal…

Some 2,000 presents are now being delivered to youngsters in the borough who normally might not receive any Christmas gift. It follows a record breaking Mayor’s Toy Appeal that will benefit 420 children – an increase of 100 over last year. Organiser Karen Collins said: “This year we asked for new toys and it has been the biggest response we have ever had.” Full story see page 4

CHRISTMAS FAYRE

The Kentish Hare helps you celebrate in style Page 38

The cancer charity…

And finally, there’s the story of Pickering Cancer Drop in Centre that each year Then there’s the story about the hunsupports 3,000 individuals whose dreds of shoppers who have suplives have been touched by canported the Reverse Advent Calendar cer. Volunteers were invited to an initiative launched by Nourish Comevening event where guests took munity Foodbank. part in an auction. They donated food items at variWhen the bidding stopped Pickous locations in Tunbridge Wells, that ering were handed £80,000. have been turned into emerCo-founder Polly Taylor gency food parcels for needy said: “The wealth of love in families and individuals. that room was unbelievaAnd this year the ‘donations’ bly humbling and it was are needed more than ever. certainly a night that The foodbank is now busy will, stay with me and preparing 120 emergency Pickering for a long NOURISH food parcels to help people time.” Olga Johnson get through the festive seaFull story see page 6

The foodbank…

NOTEWORTHY MUSIC Pianist Peter Xie performs a festive concerto Page 48

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Local News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Giving hope to children who might never receive a Christmas present

BUCKET OF FUN Childrensalon staff Denise Hamilton (centre right) and Grace Browning (right) present a toy donation to appeal organiser Karen Collins (centre left) as Nick Watts from the Big Yellow Storage Company looks on

The Mayor’s annual toy appeal breaks all records THE biggest Mayor’s Toy Appeal on record is set to give hundreds of youngsters the chance to unwrap presents on Christmas Day. Organisers of the monthlong drive for toy and game donations are this week delivering gifts across the borough to 420 children, which is 100 more than last year.

Teenagers The appeal has seen nearly 2,000 new presents donated – which will allow disadvantaged youngsters the chance to receive several gifts each. Since 1989 donated gifts have been delivered to children and teenagers who may not otherwise have received them. Community groups, schools and businesses all get involved. Appeal organiser Karen Collins, said introducing gift ideas and an Amazon Wishlist function has enabled more residents and businesses to engage.

She said: “We are helping more people than ever. In some ways it is sad the number of children has gone up as they would have little or nothing to open at Christmas, otherwise. “This year we specifically asked for new toys and that has been successful. “The Amazon Wishlist worked well and because of the website we had quite a few businesses getting involved. It has been the biggest one we have ever had.” Volunteers sorted the items at The Big Yellow Self Storage Company depot in Longfield Road after collecting them from various drop-off points around town. Mayor Julia Soyke, who fronted the campaign, said: “It was very generous for members of the public to give presents toward such a worth-while cause. “We are extremely grateful on behalf of the hundreds of children who would not otherwise have received a gift.”

PUPILS at Bennett Memorial Diocesan School in Tunbridge Wells have donated almost 1,400 shoe boxes full of gifts for under privileged young people around the world. Among those who played a leading role in making it happen were Katie Wassell and Molly Smith of Year 13. We invited them to explain what the campaign means to them and their fellow students. In the run-up to Christmas, Operation Christmas Child and Samaritan’s Purse have been Santa’s little helpers for millions of deprived children around the globe. With the generous help and support of the general public, this charity is able to send giftfilled shoeboxes to children all over the world.

Competitive For most of them this may be the only present they will ever receive. In fact, since the organisation began in 1992, 146 million shoeboxes have been sent. At Bennett Memorial School, we have participated in the campaign for more than ten years, giving 1,345 shoeboxes this year alone. Each year, tutor groups work together to fill and wrap as many shoe boxes as possible, with a little competitive spirit kicking in as the form with the most shoeboxes wins a prize. This year the tutor group 7 Langdon won the competition, producing 69 shoeboxes. One of our key values as a Church of England school is ‘compassionate service’. We

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 FEATURES EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER WILLIAM MATA will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240 626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES sales@onemedia.co.uk | 01892 779650 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

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Operation Christmas Child  Shoeboxes sent from West Kent this

year: 40,000  Volunteers at West Kent processing

centre: 485  Hours worked at the centre: 5,000

STACKS OF FUN: Franklin Osugo (left), IT teacher and shoebox appeal organiser, packs up the boxes with volunteer driver and former Bennett student Nat Higgs mas.” And Alicia Court added: “To make a child at Christmas happy.” Bennett is proud to have produced more than a quarter of all the shoeboxes in Tunbridge Wells as the appeal is an important part of Christmas at our school. It allows us to be providers, rather than just consumers, at Christmas. We intend to contribute with equal enthusiasm next year – and we hope you do too. If you feel inspired to join in with this incredible campaign, please visit the Samaritan’s Purse website and click on ‘Get Involved’.

Volunteers respond to the demand for food parcels By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk MORE than 100 families and individuals can look forward to a happier festive season after receiving emergency food parcels. The charity, Nourish Community Foodbank, which operates in Tunbridge Wells and south Tonbridge, has stepped up its operation this year with the number of referrals almost doubling. In its first full year, 2013, Nourish received 2,800 referrals, a figure which grew to 5,000 for 2017.

Emergency CONTACTS

aim to serve others with humility and love, reflecting the hospitality that Jesus offered to all people. This is something we demonstrated in the huge output of shoeboxes this year as we have attempted to share this kindness with deserving children across the globe. Two other important values that make up the Bennett ethos are ‘always hope’ and ‘flourishing’. This means enabling all children to achieve their full potential. Our shoeboxes provide children with important supplies such as pens and paper needed for schooling, hygiene items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste and essentials such as hats and scarves that will keep them warm in winter. This attitude is reflected by many of the students at Bennett. We asked some Year 7 students why the Shoebox Appeal was important to them. Eva Cushing said: “It’s about giving children that don’t have enough money joy at Christ-

This week the charity is busy delivering 120 emergency parcels to be enjoyed over the Christmas period. Last Christmas it distributed 90 parcels. Nourish co-chair Olga Johnson said: “We are experiencing an increase in demand full-stop, not just this season. “This has been in line with a growing

number of benefit delays and a higher rate of domestic violence reported locally. It is a worrying trend.” Foodbank operates by providing emergency parcels of non-perishable items that have been donated to drop-off points by members of the public. Nourish volunteers sort food at the Big Yellow Storage unit on Longfield Road before delivering it to homes. A range of organisations can refer people to a foodbank for short term support. Data provided by Nourish shows that four years ago 275 referrals a year were reported due to delays in benefits whereas the figure is now 550. Moreover, the 2013 figure for domestic violence was 50 and is now 250. “We don’t see the figure decreasing, we only see it increasing with the new

system of Universal Credit coming in,” added Mrs Johnson. “In addition we are preparing to cover all of Tonbridge [so the figure will rise further].” Mrs Johnson said she is grateful to the hundreds of shoppers who have supported their Reverse Advent Calendar. This has seen people donate extra items into the festive boxes every day in the lead up to Christmas. Mrs Johnson added: “We have been really pleased with the food donated. Customers at Co-Op and Lloyds Bank have been generous and we are grateful for that.” Nourish is currently appealing for more volunteers to deliver supplies and help sort products. To get involved email Dawn Stanford at dawn@nourishcommunityfoodbank.org.uk BUSY TIMES: Volunteer at Nourish Community Foodbank

THERE ARE ONLY TWO THINGS TO SAY THIS WEEK, THANK YOU - AND MERRY CHRISTMAS DURING most of the year this section of the newspaper [Editorial Opinon] is home to hopefully some incisive, thought provoking commentary on what’s happening in and around our community. Admittedly it does not always work out that way, but that’s the objective. This time of the year, though, there’s only one thing we want to get across; our deep and grateful thanks to all you readers and advertisers who have helped make the Times of Tunbridge Wells the biggest local newspaper in town and, we’d like to think, the local paper of record; if it matters to our town,

if it’s going to impact our daily lives then you should be reading about it on these pages. At a time when most places are seeing their local paper closed down it’s heartening to have the local community supporting their own paper as we approach our fourth year. And there are two parts to that support. As a ‘free’ paper we rely on advertisers. Without them we would simply not exist. We would not be able to pay all the overheads including staff costs and actual printing. [We have even had an empty rescue vehicle that followed the lorry carrying our papers from the presses in case it broke down.]

The second necessary piece of the equation are the people who pick up the newspaper each week, read it and when the moment takes them, respond to the ads. It is all part of a never ending circle and it appears to be working. Which is why we want to say to all you readers and all you advertisers, from the staff here at the Times… a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Thank you one and all... Editorial Director, Richard Moore

Local News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

NEWS IN BRIEF

Rise in job seekers is ‘no negative trend’ THE number of people registered as job seekers has risen in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. There are currently 650 registered job seekers in Tunbridge Wells, up by 90 from last year, and 730 in Tonbridge, which is up by ten. A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesman said there was ‘no concerning trend’ about the figures.

Appeal for volunteers

Board game spin-off has become top seller By Katie Harris LAST minute shoppers are helping to make the Royal Tunbridge Wells Edition of the board game Monopoly one of the biggest selling Christmas presents. It is estimated that ‘thousands’ of the special edition, costing up to £30, have been bought. Tom Chapman, Manager of the toy

TONBRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH is offering Christmas Day lunch for individuals or couples who will be on their own over the festive period. It is the 15th year that the church on Darenth Avenue will be offering the service. If you would like to come along for fun and friendship and a three-course traditional lunch with all the trimmings, or know anyone who might like to do so, please call (01732 352824). Tickets can be bought for £12 at Tonbridge Baptist Church from 9 am-4.30pm.

UP FRONT One of the window displays

department at Fenwick, said yesterday [Tuesday]: “It has been a really big success for us. We have had the giant board (pictured) above the till which has drawn a lot of interest.” He added that the department store only had about 30 boxes remaining from the 244 they had ordered. The game has also been flying off the shelves at Waterstones that has so far sold 210 sets.

Neil Pennell, proprietor of The Gift Store in Royal Victoria Place has devoted almost the entire shop window to a display of the board game and it has paid off with sales being ‘greater than expected’. He said: “It’s great that Tunbridge Wells has been immortalised forever. It gets all the family together at this time of year.” A spokesperson for Winning Moves that produces Monopoly, told the

Hopper service returns

Lunch on Christmas Day

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Landmark

WEST Kent charity DAVSS is seeking more volunteers on the back of their 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Abuse campaign. Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Service (DAVSS) said volunteer roles include direct interaction with victims following training or support roles, such as fundraising and marketing. To find out more visit www.davss.org.uk/helping-us

BUS passengers can enjoy the popular Town Hopper service which has returned to Tunbridge Wells. Arriva is offering the chance to buy the £1.60 ticket which provides unlimited journeys in one day to stops between Spa Valley Railway and Royal Victoria Place. The re-launched service will be available until February 28. Passengers can make connections on Arriva services: 6, 7, 277, 281, 285 and 402.

NEWS

Times that thousands of copies of the Tunbridge Wells game have been sold. He said: “We have made an estimate based on sales and we believe that every other home at least in Royal Tunbridge Wells will be playing the town’s Monopoly over the festive period.” The Royal Tunbridge Wells edition features landmark names from all

over the town including G.Collins & Sons, The Pantiles, Calverley Grounds and, of course, the Times of Tunbridge Wells. When the local edition was first announced in the Times in March residents were encouraged to nominate what they thought should appear on the colour coded ‘streets’.

People urged to stay away from emergency rooms if possible By William Mata

will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk HOSPITAL staff are bracing themselves for a busy holiday period with an average of 400 people a day expected to turn up at the A&E departments. This has led to a plea for people to stay away from hospitals in Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone if at all possible. They are being urged instead to visit their GP or one of the minor injury units that can be found in Crowborough, Uckfield, Sevenoaks and Edenbridge One third of patients who attend A&E have health problems that could be treated by a GP or a minor injury unit, according to the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW)

which manages both hospitals. With many people drinking to excess at Christmas parties or experiencing problems relating to the cold weather, December and January have traditionally proved busy months for the NHS. The Trust’s Medical Director Peter Maskell said that by selecting the most appropriate option for treatment, patients can receive care more efficiently.

illnesses and injuries. “These include: Sprains, strains, fractures, minor cuts, wounds, insect and animal bites, eye injuries, burns and scalds.” In their most recent Care Quality Commission report, MTW was said to ‘require improvement’. The trust missed their NHS target of having 95 per cent of patients seen in A&E within four hours. It achieved 89.4 per cent. See also page 6…

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES: MINOR INJURY UNITS Crowborough: Closed Christmas Day but open Tuesday to Friday 8am to 8pm. Uckfield: Open the full week 8am to 8pm. Edenbridge: Open every day 8.30am to 6.30pm.

Sevenoaks: Open every day 8am to 8pm. Opening hours of x-ray departments may vary. Most GPs open aside from Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Treatment “Our emergency departments do provide services for minor injuries or illnesses, but patients can often wait much longer than in other urgent care services,” he said. “Emergency patients take priority at A&E. Dedicated minor injury units offer faster treatment for a range of

DEMAND Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury

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Local News

Man died after Flamefest from ecstasy overdose A FATHER-of-one died in the aftermath of a Tunbridge Wells ‘alternative’ festival from a lethal drug dose. Maidstone Coroners’ Court heard on Monday [December 18] that Steven Graves, 53, took a lethal measure of ecstasy at Flamefest on August 22. The former technical illustrator from Surrey was discovered under a duvet outside a tent, with a female partner, in Brokes Wood. Sandra Levy, was unconscious but recovered in hospital. An event volunteer said he witnessed the pair sleeping outside the tent at the end of Flamefest and heard snoring. He later went back to check and saw Mr Graves had blue lips. Emergency services then responded to the scene but attempts to revive the man were unsuccessful. Coroner Geoffrey Smith recorded the cause of death as a fatal overdose of MDMA, the chemical name for ecstasy. Flamefest, which included some activities of a sexual nature, was held over three days and was attended by an estimated 250 people.

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Night to celebrate aviation success lands charity with £80,000 donation AN EVENING to celebrate the ongoing success of Zenith Aviation has led to Pickering Cancer Drop in Centre being handed an £80,000 donation -enough to run the Tunbridge Wells charity for two years. The private aviation business marked its end of year success with a VIP party, hosted in conjunction with Bombardier at the Bombardier hangar at Biggin Hill, where guests were treated to a West End musical extravaganza, a Champagne reception and a festive three course dinner. They were invited to bid on a prize to watch the cast perform again at a venue of their choice and after an impassioned speech by Polly Taylor, co-founder of the self-funding charity, the auction finished at a £80,000.

THUMBS UP Polly Taylor with Pickering volunteers

Amazing Polly Taylor went on to explain that this will fund the centre for almost two years, and added: “It was the most amazing evening - the wealth of love in that room was unbelievably humbling and it was certainly a night that will stay with me and Pickering for a long time. “Many thanks to all the wonderful people in the room who donated and a special thank you to Markerstudy, who own Zenith Aviation, for this exceptional invitation.” Amongst the bidders was Harry Collins, Royal

Jeweller and owner of G.Collins & Sons in Tunbridge Wells. Mr Collins, who is well known for his philanthropic endeavours, both at home and further afield, and is heavily involved with the Duke of Edinburgh International Award, amongst others, commented: “There is nothing so rewarding as improving the circumstances for an individual or organisation. “To know that we have helped fund the Picker-

ing Centre for another two years is an honour and makes me extremely proud.” Zenith Aviation is expecting significant growth in 2018 after enjoying a record year of flying, up 35% in hours flown, compared to 2016. The business has gained industry attention since it purchased two Learjet75s from Bombardier in 2016, and is the only company to station its Learjet75s in the UK at its hangar at Biggin Hill.

Battling NHS Trust appoints new Chief Executive EXPERIENCED NHS manager Miles Scott has been appointed the new Chief Executive of Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells (MTW) NHS Trust. The body oversees the hospitals in Pembury and Maidstone as well as several local Minor Injury Units and was rated as ‘requires improvement’ in

Mr Scott was Chief Executive of St George’s University Hospitals Foundation Trust in London from 2011 to 2016. He has previously worked within Bradford Teaching Hospitals and Harrogate and District

Ever the optimist, he is an Arsenal FC fan and enjoys theatre its most recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) report. The Chief Executive takes over on January 8, around the time a new CQC rating is due. He succeeds interim CEO Jim Lusby, who took temporary charge in September when Glenn Douglas departed, after ten years, for a role within Kent NHS Sustainability and Transformation Plan.

TOP JOB Miles Scott

NHS Foundation Trust as well as within the NHS Ambulance Improvement Programme. “I am delighted to have been appointed CEO at MTW,” he said. “I have been very impressed by the staff I have met and look forward to working together to deliver outstanding patient and staff experience.” The father-of-two lives in London with his wife Abbie and has also been Chairman of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s (NICE) Safe Staffing Advisory Committee. David Highton, MTW Chairman, added: “Our ambition, together, is to continue to make MTW an excellent place for care which is underpinned by financial stability.” Mr Scott is a keen runner and recently completed the Cologne marathon. Ever the optimist, he is also an Arsenal FC fan and enjoys theatre.

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Local Business News

NEWS IN BRIEF

Celebrations for firm after awards success BATHROOM specialist Ripples has been named Master Retailer at the The ek&bbusiness Awards 2017. The company, based in St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, were honoured at an event, which was held at The Brewery in London and hosted by comedian Rob Beckett. Retail body ek&bbusiness brought together firms from the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom industries for the ceremony, which was attended by 500 guests. Ripples Managing Director Paul Crow said: “The whole team at Ripples have worked incredibly hard to win this very prestigious award. We are absolutely honoured.”

Brexit-proof tariff ENERGY bill payers in Tunbridge Wells have been offered the chance to invest in a ‘Brexit-proof’ price tariff. Together Energy has announced the agreement will include a three-year fixed price protection plan, as well as £100 cash-back, in the period up to Christmas 2020. To find out more, call 0333 150 1699 or visit www.togetherenergy.co.uk.

Paradise for film fans EVEN more films are being lined up for a multiplex which has become the first in the South East to boast 17 screens. Showcase Cinema De Lux Bluewater has been extended and renovated with reclining seats in-time for the release of Christmas blockbuster Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Jeweller finds happy customers a better endorsement than Google By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk KEEPING customer trust has proved key to a family jeweller who aims to offer a warmer experience than online shopping. Micallef Jewellers has adapted to a number of changes in their nine years in Tonbridge High Street, with national companies selling products on the internet proving their latest competitor. Founder and jeweller Michel Micallef has overseen 35 years at the helm since starting the company in Rainham and expanding further into Sevenoaks six years ago. His daughter, Sacha Micallef, is the shop manager of what is now the last independent jewellers in Tonbridge. She said the firm’s approach has kept customers coming back rather than looking online. “We do have a website, but it is very difficult to compete with big online retailers,” she said. “To get yourself on Google as a silver or diamond jeweller is very expensive. “We can’t compete on those terms, but we can compete in terms of service and advice.”

Service She added that the firm handles repairs, alterations and cleaning with care and efficiency. Their turnaround is one week, compared to the six-week wait online customers can face. Many of the products they repair and adjust are items that were mis-sold online. Ms Micallef said

that by personally measuring items these problems can be avoided. “The service side of our business is important because people are trusting you with their valuables,” she said, “and not just because they are expensive, they have a sentimental value, too. “Our reputation has developed from this trust, and customers know we won’t keep their jewellery longer than we need to.” As well as a changing high street landscape, Micallef Jewellers has seen a change in jewellery fashions, with gold becoming more expensive while silver is more respected than it used to be. Ms Micallef added: “This high street is full of hard-working, exciting independent shops and businesses.

“Time and again you see people on social media putting Tonbridge down, but I think it’s a fantastic town, we have amazing coffee shops and hairdressers – you can’t get that online. “These are the retailers who keep the high streets alive.” Her mother, Jacqueline Micallef, handles valuations and administrations for the company while Ms Micallef said her pet dog, Coco, is always in the shop and a favourite among customers. She added: “We have pieces from about 60 different jewellery suppliers and can get most things in for a customer at any time. “We like to be flexible, and it gives you that extra personal touch. We like to think we go that little bit further for our clients.” FAMILY BUSINESS Michel, Sacha and Jacqueline Micallef

Local Business News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

TOASTING SUCCESS Chapel Down Chief Executive Frazer Thompson

Fundraising business hopes to be ‘most exciting drinks company’ DRINKS producer Chapel Down is looking to secure 500 acres of vineyard land after raising £18.5million in share sales. The Tenterden-based wine, beer and spirit makers hailed ‘a new chapter of growth’ after issuing 37,060,000 ordinary shares at 50p each. In a statement last Wednesday [December 13], Chapel Down announced a currently unnamed global institutional investor contributed to the scheme. The business has previously relied on crowdfunding for its capital, so Chief Executive Frazer Thompson feels this is a ‘transformational moment’. He said: “This fundraising enables us to significantly invest in the business for further growth and to meet the increasing demand for our products.

“This marks the opening of a new chapter of growth for Chapel Down. “With an outstanding team and world class products, we will look to fully capitalise on our position as the UK’s most exciting drinks company.”

Offer Chapel Down said proceeds from the £18.5million would be used to secure vineyard land of around 500 acres, step up the brand’s sales and marketing and accelerate the growth of its beer business. There are also plans to improve the shop, bar and ‘visitor experience’ at their Ashford brewery. The firm is also looking to launch an Open Offer for existing shareholders to raise a fur-

ther £1.47million through selling more 50p shares. Mr Thompson added: “We welcome the new investors in our company and hope that many of our existing shareholders will take part in the Open Offer and continue their journey with Chapel Down.” As a result of the fundraising, the company has seen a steady growth over the past five years with a 25 per cent compounded annual growth rate in sales. Despite British weather proving a challenge, turnover is expected to be around £11.6million for the current financial year. Chapel Down’s headquarters are in Tenterden and their vineyards sprawl around surrounding Kent countryside. The new plots are likely to be developed nearby.

Posthumous award for ‘kitchen Mozart’ THE late founder of a Tunbridge Wells furniture shop was honoured in a ceremony hosted by film star Catherine Zeta-Jones. Kitchen-specialist Mark Wilkinson, OBE, was posthumously awarded the Walpole Honour title at the Walpole British Luxury Awards. His wife Cynthia received the honour on behalf of Mr Wilkinson’s family at the ceremony in The Dorchester Hotel in London. Alongside establishing the Mark Wilkinson Furniture store in Tunbridge Wells High Street, he co-founded Smallbone of Devizes, a leading interior designing firm. British luxury brands promoter Walpole was keen to pay tribute to Mr Wilkinson’s achievements at the event, during which his wife had the chance to meet Ms Zeta-Jones, who first shot to fame on TV in The Darling Buds of May, filmed in Pluckley. Award presenter and Walpole Chief Executive Helen Brocklebank said: “Mark’s work completely redefined what we understand by a beautifullydesigned kitchen. “He was described by one critic as the ‘Mozart of kitchen cabinet makers’ and made the kitchen the heart of the home.” Mr Wilkinson passed away in July this year, having been awarded an OBE for his services to the furniture industry and charity in 2010. He is survived by two children – Victoria and Gregory.

STAR APPEAL Catherine Zeta-Jones (centre), flanked by Walpole Chairman Michael Ward & CEO Helen Brocklebank

BUSINESS

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Local News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Bitcoins boost business at Camden Road shop By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk A SHOP in Camden Road has been busier than usual of late thanks to the media frenzy over the digital currency Bitcoin. Daniel Jenkinson’s premises has the only Bitcoin ATM in Kent and it’s pulling in the customers. Bitcoin is the world’s first digital money, or cryptocurrency, and allows users to make transactions online without any fees and keep their anonymity. Having previously been associated with cybercrime, the currency can now be spent on Microsoft, Virgin and Expedia websites. Mr Jenkinson, owner of The Vapour Trail, that also sells e-cigarettes, said: “I have always been interested in cryptocurrency, and I wanted to install the ATM machine to see if other people would be interested, too.

Invest “There has been a good reception. If a customer wants to invest they can put cash into the machine and can scan credit on to their phone.” Since 2011, when you could buy a Bitcoin for around £8, the value of the currency has soared. Today it will cost you £11,000 to buy one coin. Users must present identification to the ATM and then feed it cash. It then prints a QR code, which the holder can then present to enable Bitcoin to be sent to their online account. The Tunbridge Wells machine, provided by AlphaVend, is one of nearly 100 nationwide. It does not offer physical cash like a conventional ATM. Mr Jenkinson said: “It was always going to happen. I have been saying to people for years it [Bitcoin] will go up, and that is just needed to come into the mainstream. “More firms are now starting to accept it. It needed big corporations to introduce it. The price it is now is still the bottom end of what it will be. “But you don’t have to buy one whole coin,” he added, saying that customers will often purchase a tiny fraction, sometimes 0.001 per cent of a Bitcoin, that will cost £20. “When I first brought in the ATM, I never knew I was going to earn money from it. The objective was to bring customers in,” he said. A surge in national media interest has seen some articles drawing comparison between the machines and drug money laundering. However, Mr Jenkinson dismissed these suggestions, saying that security devices set up within the machine, such as a fingerprint INNOVATIVE The Vapour Trail

POPULAR: The Bitcoin ATM in Camden Road

Housebuilder says Bitcoin sales could be made in Kent A DEVELOPER has sold homes in Essex and Hertfordshire using Bitcoin in a UK first. Go Homes said the two luxury houses, which are still under construction, were bought last week by men in their 20s who work in the technology industry. The first unnamed buyer is understood to be an early pioneer, who is now cashing in on his initial investment with a £350,000 home in Colchester. The second property is a £595,000 home in Hertford. Homes have been bought using the cryptocurrency in Europe and America, but this is the first time it has been done in the UK. Go Homes is a south-east developer and is looking at sites in Kent with the possibility that homes could be bought in the county in the near future using Bitcoin. In addition, the firm is considering using other cryptocurrencies, such as Litecoin and Ripple. A spokesman said the long-term vision is to help more people on to the housing ladder, and find innovative ways to change the industry. reader, help combat money laundering. He added: “Most people who come in are business people looking at investing.”

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Community News

Royal British Legion Industries starts adult training programme KENT-based charity Royal British Legion Industries [RBLI] has been chosen by the Education & Skills Funding Agency to deliver skills training to adults in Kent and Sussex. The programme will see RBLI’s team of tutors, assessors, job coaches and advisors help adults gain the skills they need to move into their desired employment sector, including retail, construction and customer service. Across the two counties there are some 85,000 people of working age with no qualifications, which can cause unemployment or job insecurity.

Wellbeing RBLI, which is based in Aylesford, has been delivering support to people who are unemployed, including disabled people and Armed Forces veterans, for many years. Last year it won funding from the European Social Fund, the Big Lottery and the Department for Work & Pensions, allowing it to deliver various programmes to help people improve their health and wellbeing and move into work. It is the first time RBLI will deliver a programme for adults, having begun offering functional skills and other training to young people aged 16-24. Steve Woodward, RBLI Director of Employment Solutions, said: “I am very proud that the RBLI has been chosen to deliver this skills training. “There are many people in Kent, and indeed across the country, who are in need of support to gain vital skills which will help them to move into sustainable, relevant employment.” If you or someone you know is struggling to find work, or needs help to gain the skills needed for a job, call 0800 319 6841 or email: skills@rbli.co.uk

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Iconic Bough Beech Oast House visitors’ centre is closed to public By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk

TEA AND SYMPATHY Volunteers protest against the oast’s closure on Sunday

THE Bough Beech Oast House visitors’ centre at Winkhurst Green near Ide Hill was forced to close its doors to the public on Sunday [­ December 17] after more than 30 years. The iconic 19th-century Kentish oast, which remains in its original condition, complete with large barn, is rented by the Kent Wildlife Trust [KWT] and had previously been run by its West Kent branch.

‘These volunteers have been working for years and are really upset. It came out of the blue and with very little notice’ KWT announced at the end of November that it intends to keep the site open as an education centre for organised groups and a base for its Forest School. However, the decision means that it will close the shop – which offers r­ efreshments – and toilet facilities, to the consternation of the scores of volunteers who help out there. The centre receives more than 13,000 visitors a year and takes over £27,000 in the shop. The KWT Manager who operated there has been relocated to Sevenoaks. The centre offered a rich variety of activities for

schools, local communities and tourists. The apple festival was particularly well-known and popular, with around 400 people attending. There were also woodcraft days, musical performances, bat walks and star-gazing evenings for the general public, while seven footpaths around the vicinity begin at the oast house’s car park. It was a focal point for ornithologists, who observed the birds at the 285-acre reservoir nearby. Children were invited to go pond-dipping and explore nature trails, while there were also hop-picking themes. This plethora of services and events were hosted by more than 80 volunteers. Jenny Macpherson, Chair of the KWT’s West Kent Local Group, said: “We are so disappointed – the membership wasn’t consulted at all. “These volunteers have been working for years and are really upset. It came out of the blue and with very little notice.” She added: “People come here from London and Brighton, all over the place, because it’s

unique, it’s in the countryside, there’s a warm welcome from the volunteers and it’s a hub of interest in wildlife. “It’s not posh or flashy, there are no hot meals available here, but after a long walk you want a nice cup of tea. “People come here to get away from all the pressure – they can escape from their tablets and mobile phones, and they bring their children to run in the meadow.” KWT defended its decision to close the site to the public, saying: “The oast building lacks the potential that our other visitor centres have for enhancement and development. “The size, state and nature of the building have an impact on maintenance and improvement and it is difficult to meet requirements for accessibility. “Similarly, opportunities are limited at this site to improve our commercial and catering offer. “We strive always to deliver a high-quality visitor experience and the oast, unfortunately, does not grant us the opportunity to do so.”

Community News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE: (LtoR): John Barber of the Friends of Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons, John Mahon of Dandara, Paul Burnett of Targetfollow and Crispian Emberson of HDC International

Common cause for celebration TEN new information panels have adorned both Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall ­Commons thanks to the support of two large companies with local interests, Targetfollow and Dandara, and the Friends of Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons. The local community and tourists are encouraged to come and explore the 256 acres of common land in the middle of town, which features a rich diversity of wildlife, including woods, heathland, lakes, ponds and springs. The Commons are famous for their unique sandstone outcrops, including Toad Rock and Wellington Rocks. They are also home to two cricket

local clubs as well as a children’s nursery, churches and pubs. Targetfollow, a property investment, development and asset management company, owns and manages the ­Commons along with the Upper Pantiles. Paul Burnett, the firm’s Associate Director, said: “We are proud to work together with the other Commons conservators in the important role of maintaining and preserving them for the benefit and enjoyment of all.” Dandara, a property development company, are currently redeveloping Union House – at the end of The Pantiles – to provide residential accommodation, retail units and ­community spaces.

The panels have been designed by heritage interpretation experts HDC International and are made of high-­quality sustainable materials. Each panel provides a map showing the location, history and specific features, such as the flora and fauna, that can be found there. Mr Burnett added: “The new information panels look fantastic and are a welcome addition to Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons. “They will encourage both residents and tourists alike to explore and learn about the beauty and diversity of the 256 acres of Commons – the countryside in the town.”

NEWS

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Glowing feeling as Firefly golf day raises £8,000 at Dale Hill A Charity Golf Day hosted by Firefly Properties raised more than £8,000 at Dale Hill Golf & Country Club on behalf of its nominated charity, Lymphoedema Support Network [LSN]. Lymphoedema is a chronic ­condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues, usually in the arms or legs. It develops when the lymphatic system doesn’t work properly. The final total was £8,106, and Firefly would like to thank Dale Hill’s Trustree, Matt Hazledine, and his wife Vicki, for their invaluable assistance in organising the day. The event was supported by local businesses of all sizes, from Land Rover, Porsche and Waitrose to Independent Pension Specialists,

IN THE SWING Matt Hazledine presents the cheque to Carol and Chris Prior

Goodwin Pest Management and Crabtree Consulting. Chris Prier, Director of Firefly Properties in Paddock Wood, said: “We were genuinely overwhelmed by the generosity of our friends in local businesses who either entered a team, sponsored a prize hole like nearest the pin or longest drive, sponsored a standard hole, or provided wonderful prizes for the auction, silent auction or raffle.“ Fellow Director Carol Prier added: “The day was a huge success and the weather was warm and sunny for our 80 golfers, which made the day even more enjoyable. Those who joined us for the evening meal and entertainment had a fantastic time, too.”

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NEWS

County News

NEW BUILD Strood Railway Station has reopened

County rail provider re-opens improved station in £3m plan A LARGER booking hall, a new waiting room and better passenger facilities are all part of a £2.6million redesign of Strood station. Rail franchise holder Southeastern opened the new building last week as part of a 20 year regeneration project to enhance Medway towns. This will also see stations in Chatham, Gillingham, Rainham and Rochester restructured in a move projected to boost the local economy with more than £1bn in private sector investment. Strood is the first station building to have been delivered by Southeastern, who are looking to bid again to control the network when the contract is put up for grabs next year. David Wornham, passenger services director at Southeastern, said: “We are delighted to be opening our fantastic new Strood station as part of our programme to improve stations and facilities and make the journey experience better for our passengers. “We have worked in close partnership with Medway Council who co-funded the project.”

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Winter spike in animal distress predicted by concerned charity THOUSANDS of animals were treated cruelly in Kent last Christmas, according RSPCA data. The charity received 3,123 calls relating to harm, negligence and distress in December 2016 and January 2017, including 406 in Medway area alone. With 153 calls Tunbridge Wells was bottom of the list while Tonbridge (261) and Sevenoaks (243) ranked mid-table. The RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) released the data as part of its Kindness at Christmas Appeal, which also included the release of a video advertisement. The charity is braced for 2,000 calls a day during the climax of the festive season.

where in the region of 19,000 animals this winter alone. “We are asking animal lovers across the country to show kindness this Christmas by supporting our winter appeal.” To find out more visit www.rspca.org.uk/winterappeal.

Public say ‘no way’ to 600-home plan THE public voted by almost four to one against plans to build 600 homes in the Which Way Westerham project. Westerham Town Council held a referendum as developer Squerryes Estates seeks to also build a new relief road to divert the A25 around the town centre and make environmental improvements. Higher authority Sevenoaks District Council is required to provide thousands of homes as part of a Local Plan and is set to scrutinise Which Way Westerham next year.

Green’s escape hope ASHFORD MP Damian Green may escape official sanction for alleged inappropriate behaviour, according to reports. This is because Theresa May’s de-facto number two was not a cabinet minister when he was said to have made sexual advances towards Tory activist Kate Maltby in 2014, and was therefore not in breach of the ministerial code. Mr Green has denied both this allegation and claims he viewed pornography on his House of Commons computer in 2008.

Support Simon Osborne, RSPCA superintendent, said: “During the Christmas period alone last year, we rescued more than 25,000 animals, many of whom had been cruelly abandoned, injured or abused. “But we also saw so many acts of kindness by animal lovers and we are asking animal lovers across the country to support our winter appeal.” Within the South East, 13,265 incidents were reported to the charity during last December and January, with 366 happening on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Nationwide the charity received 118,799 calls during the period, which works out as 1.3 every minute. Mr Osborne added: “It’s a sad fact that every day at work throughout the year can be tough for our inspectors and animal welfare and collection officers. “But winter really does come with its own challenges and issues and we expect to take in some-

NEWS IN BRIEF

Tram link progresses CAUTION: Inspector Rachael Davies with Troy the dog

MEETINGS are being held into ambitious proposals to build a £600million tram linking Kent to Essex. The Kenex Thames Transit project is designed to connect Dartford, Gravesend and Grays with the aim of decongesting road links across the river.

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

NEWS IN BRIEF

Manchester’s teddy bears find new homes ALMOST 2,000 teddy bears left as tributes to children and others killed in the Manchester Arena bombing are to go to new homes with needy youngsters. They will be distributed by local charities Wood Street Mission and The Toy Appeal, as well as international organisations Bearly Loved and The Teddy Trust. Manchester shoe-makers Timpsons stored all the items until they dried out, then the Women’s Institute washed them all and repaired the ones that were damaged.

DLR workers to strike WORKERS on the Docklands Light Railway will stage a 24-hour strike on New Year’s Eve in a dispute over pay and conditions. Cleaners and security officers will walk out at 6am on December 31. The union said there had been a ‘comprehensive breakdown’ in industrial relations with contractor ISS.

14 years for paedophile A SECURITY guard from Tunbridge Wells who flew to the Philippines to film himself abusing a child has been jailed for 14 years. Timothy Smith told police that he did not not see himself as a law-breaker, Maidstone Crown Court heard. The 42-year-old, who worked as a security guard for Tesco and founded a small ghosthunting group in Kent, was handed the extended sentence with a minimum term of 10 years after admitting 16 sexual offences.

National News

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Ten-year sentence for man who threw rocks at cars in Cranbrook A DELIVERY driver who smiled as he threw rocks at passing motorists around Cranbrook while on his rounds has been jailed for 10 years. Glynn Williams hurled the missiles from his United Parcel Service van at oncoming cars while he was delivering parcels in neigbouring Kent villages, Maidstone Crown Court heard. The 37-year-old made a thumbs-up sign and said ‘see you again’ to relatives in the public gallery as he was being led away to the FRIGHTENING: Glynn Williams, one of the rocks he threw during the course of his eight-month reign of terror, and a victim’s car cells. Judge Martin Joy, sentencing, said: “All of these One of his victims told how she was driving and the incidents as he drove to villages around Cranpeople were driving along and targeted by you. suddenly heard a loud bang. The windscreen had brook between January and September 2015, Kent The impact of these sorts of offences could have shattered and she found her children covered in Police said. He was arrested in October after an been fatal, there’s no question about that. glass, the court heard. appeal for witnesses led to a number of victims “These were frightening and shocking expericoming forward. ences for these motorists.” During police interview he denied any wrongdo‘The impact of these sorts of Williams, from Dartford, denied the allegations ing and claimed that residents in the area had a offences could have been fatal, but was convicted after a two-week trial of 14 grudge against him. there’s no question about that’ counts of destroying or damaging property and Police Constable Lee Oakley commented: “It is recklessly causing a danger to life, as well as one no exaggeration to say someone could quite easily count each of criminal damage, actual bodily have been killed as a result of Williams’ thoughtharm and assault by beating. Another woman said she saw Williams grinning less crimes. The court heard that Williams, who had no his- at her when he threw the rock. “Why he ever set out to deliberately commit such tory of mental illness, targeted a string of motorWilliams injured at least two of the drivers – one offences remains unclear. Williams is now paying ists over a period of months in 2015. of whom suffered serious facial injuries – during the price for his sheer stupidity.”

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National News

ALL AT SEA HMS Queen Elizabeth

Public won’t have to pay for carrier REPAIRS to a leaking HMS Queen Elizabeth, the UK’s new £3.1 billion aircraft carrier, will not cost the British taxpayer a penny, the Defence Secretary has insisted. The warship, the biggest and most powerful ever built by the UK, was only accepted into the Royal Navy fleet by the Queen earlier this month. Gavin Williamson said the bill would be paid by ‘the contractors who built her’. “This isn’t going to cost the British taxpayer a penny,” he said, as it was revealed a leaky seal was causing water to pour into the warship. The vessel, which is 65,000 tonnes and 919ft long, has an estimated working life of 50 years and is believed to have been leaking for a while. It is understood the cost of fixing the leak could reach hundreds of thousands of pounds. A spokeswoman for the Aircraft Carrier Alliance (ACA) said the problem was known about prior to HMS Queen Elizabeth being commissioned and accepted into the Royal Navy. She added that the vessel can go to sea and the leak will be fixed in the new year – without any need to take the ship into a dry dock.

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

May the force be with us: Police Four arrests made money comes from council tax in multiple raids COUNCIL taxpayers will fund much of a police cash boost of up to £450million under a new financial settlement. The Government announced the central grant for the 43 forces in England and Wales will be protected in cash terms in 2018-19. Police and crime commissioners will also be given the green light to raise local precept contributions by up to £1 a month for a typical household. Together, this will mean force budgets will rise by up to £270million nationally, according to the Home Office.

on terror suspects

HIGHLY TRAINED: BTP officers on patrol at Kings Cross station

BOMB disposal experts were deployed after police swooped to foil a suspected Islamist terror plot. Four men were arrested in early-morning raids in South Yorkshire and Derbyshire on Tuesday. As part of the operation the Army’s Bomb Disposal Unit was dispatched to an address in Chesterfield. The immediate area around the property has been cordoned off and local residents evacuated as officers carry out searches. Three men, aged 22, 36 and 41, were detained at four different addresses in Sheffield, while a 31-year-old was held in Chesterfield. All four were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Police said the arrests were ‘intelligence-led and pre-planned’ as part of an ongoing investigation by the North East Counter Terrorism Unit.

Priorities In addition, the dedicated pot for counter-terrorism policing will go up by around £50million to £757million, while £130million extra will be provided for priorities such as special grants to help cover unexpected costs. Most police force funding comes directly from the Government, but around 30 per cent is drawn from council tax through the policing precept levy. Home Secretary Amber Rudd said: “Whether it is your local forces, the national picture or counter-terrorism capabilities,

this is a strong settlement that ensures forces have the resources they need to keep us safe. “Taxpayers will invest more money in forces because the work our officers do to protect us is absolutely vital, and we recognise demand is changing.” She added: “However, my message to police forces is that this increased investment must mean we raise the pace of reform. “For too long, embracing digital and increasing productivity have been tomorrow’s policing problems - now they are today’s

necessities. The Government is committed to meeting this challenge and we want policing to do the same.” Meanwhile the British Transport Police (BTP) are scaling up their counter-terror operations, creating new units consisting of firearms officers, specialist support dogs and ‘behaviour detection’ personnel in Birmingham and Manchester. It is the first time that the BTP will have armed officers and specialist operations officers based outside London.

SWOOP: Police at a house in Meersbrook, Sheffield

National Business News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

NEWS IN BRIEF

Energy giant says it needs to do more BRITISH GAS owner Centrica has admitted it has not done enough to contact its customers on rip-off tariffs and encourage them to switch to cheaper deals. In a Commons committee hearing with MPs, Britain’s biggest energy supplier said it contacted the majority of its customers on standard variable tariffs (SVTs) six times a year to offer alternative deals, but admitted it could do more. British Gas has around two-thirds of its customers still on SVTs, and 43 per cent of those on the poor-value deals have been on one for more than three years.

GoCompare agrees deal PRICE comparison group GoCompare is snapping up discount codes site MyVoucherCodes in a deal worth £36.5 million. MyVoucherCodes is one of the UK’s largest online voucher code sites with eight million e-mail subscribers and around 45 million visits a year to its website.

Free banking increase MORE than 900,000 ‘no frills’ basic bank accounts were opened in the year to June, bringing the total number of the fee-free accounts open to nearly five million, Government figures show. Since September 2016, the UK’s nine largest banks have been legally required to offer feefree basic bank accounts which give people somewhere to make and receive payments but do not tend to come with added features.

BUSINESS

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Sky News staff warn against the closure of the channel AT RISK: Sky News

STAFF at Sky News have piled into the debate over the broadcaster’s potential takeover, warning the competition watchdog that blocking the deal would trigger 500 job losses and deliver a “deeply damaging” blow to British journalism. The group has told the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) that the closure of the channel would “damage media plurality” in the UK by leaving the BBC as the only provider of 24-hour news. The move comes after Sky said it would shut down Sky News if it proved the main barrier standing in the way of 21st Century Fox’s £11.7 billion bid to buy the remaining 61% of the broadcaster it does not already own.

The deal is currently being scrutinised by the competition watchdog on the grounds of media plurality and broadcasting standards. The letter addressed to CMA case officer Sabrina Basran has been signed by 175 staff, including All Out Politics presenter Adam Boulton, business presenter Ian King and special news correspondent Alex Crawford.

Damaging The group wrote: “We are a group of 175 Sky News employees who have decided to write to you as an interested party in the 21st Century Fox/Sky merger. “We have serious concerns about what the potential closure of Sky News would mean not only for us, but for wider society. In the first instance, scrapping the channel would result in redundancy for more than 500 people. “The loss of those jobs would be deeply damaging for journalism in the UK.”

Pensions lifeboat looks set to block rescue plans THE future of Toys R Us and 3,200 jobs is hanging in the balance after the pension lifeboat said it will not back the retailer’s rescue plans unless it agrees to pay £9 million into its pension fund.

Shortfall The Pension Protection Fund (PPF) has said it intends to vote against restructuring plans put forward by Toys R Us tomorrow [Thursday] - a move that could plunge the embattled chain into administration. The PPF is demanding that Toys R Us makes the payment to secure three years’ worth of funding

upfront for its defined salary staff pension scheme, which has a shortfall of between £25 million and £30 million. But it is believed Toys R Us does not have enough cash to meet the PPF demands. The PPF’s proxy vote intentions mean the planned company voluntary agreement (CVA) may not go ahead, as Toys R Us needs the backing of 75 per cent of creditors, including landlords. But the PPF stressed that talks will continue with Toys R Us until Thursday’s CVA final vote in the hope of reaching an agreement on the funding.

Uber poses danger to public safety UBER is a danger to public safety because it forces drivers to work exhausting hours just to make ends meet, a union has told a court. The GMB union has mounted legal efforts to become a participant in the taxi-hailing firm’s appeal against a decision not to renew its licence in London. In September, Transport for London (TfL) refused to renew Uber’s licence on the grounds of “public safety and security implications”.

Concerns During a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, the union claimed the tech company forced drivers to work dangerously long shifts just to earn the living wage. Gerry Facenna, representing GMB, said it wanted to see a maximum hours cap introduced for drivers, along with a limit on how many drivers can operate in one area at the same time. But Uber said the suggestions were “obviously misdirected” and an issue on which TfL should set rules for the entire private hire vehicle (PHV) industry. TfL raised a number of concerns about Uber, including its approach to reporting serious criminal offences, how drivers’ medical certificates are obtained, how criminal record checks are carried out, and its use of technology which allegedly helps it to evade law enforcement officials.

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World News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Missiles could Crash train was travelling reach London, at 80mph in 30mph limit says minister NORTH KOREA is developing ballistic missiles which could strike London, the Defence Secretary said as he branded the country a ‘massive threat’. During a period of heightened nuclear tensions arising from North Korea’s military tests, Gavin Williamson also said the country represents a ‘real danger’ to Britain. With US President Donald Trump making clear that America is ready to deal with North Korea if necessary, pressed on whether the UK is also making preparations, Mr Williamson said Britain has to ‘step up’. “North Korea is a massive threat, they’re a real danger to this country,” the former chief whip told the Evening Standard.

Player “They are currently on the pathway to have ballistic missiles that could strike London. “This isn’t just a problem for the United States, this is a global problem. Britain has to step up in terms of dealing with it, there are threats ­emerging right around the world. “Britain is global player, it is a world player. We will never hesitate to deal with aggression and threats, that is what we have been known for doing in the past and that is what we continue to do.” Britain has named the North Korea cyber crime group it claims was responsible for the WannaCry ransomware attack that crippled parts of the NHS. The National Cyber Security Centre assessed that it was ‘highly likely’ the attack in May was the work of a faction called the Lazarus Group.

THE train that careered off an overpass in Washington state, killing at least three people, was travelling 50mph over the speed limit when it jumped the track, federal investigators say. Bella Dinh-Zarr, a National Transportation Safety Board member, said the data recorder in the rear locomotive showed the train was going 80mph in a 30mph zone when it derailed along a curve south of Seattle, spilling carriages on to a road below. She said it is not yet known what caused the Amtrak train to OUT OF CONTROL The crash site south of Seattle

derail and too early to say why it was going so fast. The train was making the inaugural run along a new, fast bypass route created by refurbishing freight tracks alongside Interstate 5.

Curves The $180million (£134million) project was aimed at speeding up services by bypassing an old route that had a number of curves, single-track tunnels and freight traffic.

Positive train control – technology that can automatically slow or stop a speeding train – was not in use on the stretch of track, according to Amtrak president Richard Anderson. Regulators have been pressing railroads for years to install such technology, but the deadline has been extended repeatedly at the industry’s request and is now the end of 2018. The accident left mangled train carriages on top of each other, with one hanging precariously over the freeway.

SPORT IN BRIEF

Gatlin denies doping after coach allegation JUSTIN GATLIN said he was ‘shocked and surprised’ when he learned that his coach Dennis Mitchell allegedly offered to supply performance-enhancing drugs. In a statement on his Instagram account, the 100 metres world champion denied doping and threatened legal action against anybody who claims otherwise. Gatlin’s comments come after undercover reporters from the Daily Telegraph filmed Mitchell and another member of the American’s entourage, agent Robert Wagner, allegedly offering to obtain banned drugs for an actor training for a film.

Overton facing battle CRAIG OVERTON admits it may be ‘tough’ for him to be fit in time for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The paceman carried on bowling despite suffering a hairline rib fracture. The 23-year-old took a blow to his chest on debut in Adelaide from a delivery from fast bowler Pat Cummins which missed the protective guard he was wearing.

‘Moneyball’ at Barnsley BARNSLEY have been taken over by a consortium led by China’s Chien Lee, with the ‘Moneyball’ baseball pioneer Billy Beane also investing in the club. The takeover has been ratified and the consortium have assumed control from long-time owner Patrick Cryne, who is suffering from terminal cancer.

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Letters

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

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 Consulting – or concealing? ON A CLEAR DAY Tonbridge High Street

The High Street we deserve is one that we can actually drive down ‘Giving Tonbridge the High Street it deserves’: This was the headline on the bright adverts when Tonbridge High Street was redone. Due to a much wider pavement the bus stops were moved into the road rather than a cut-out in the pavement or demarcated in the road as before – I don’t remember which – but allowing traffic to pass by. Thus, every time a bus stops in the High Street the whole town is gridlocked. I cannot understand why these projects are not fully thought through – it seems the High Street our town deserves is an unnavigable car

Strong track record on housing Mark Hood makes some observations about housebuilding and affordability [December 6], and I’m pleased to read he supports my stance on the unhelpful intervention by government that seeks to impose a higher level of building. We believe it is undeliverable and doesn’t reflect our local need assessment – and we said so, forcibly. However, we are not prepared to throw away all the good work that we have done to date, which would put a delay on providing the homes for local people we seek to assist. Of course the council wishes to make the most of brownfield sites. It has a strong track record of releasing redundant sites for development – most recently at Peter’s Village, on the east bank of the Medway, and a community of 1,000 new homes, a new school and access across the river. But we need to be careful to retain employment land as well. At Aylesford Newsprint, the solution is likely to be a mix of development, but we have to be sure that site can be a decent place to live and solve some tricky problems around access, flood risk, land contamination and so forth. Lastly, on affordable homes, 360 have been provided throughout the borough during the past three years, and in the most recent year, 2016-17, we have secured 60 homes for affordable rent, five for social rent and 79 for shared ownership. Our programme for 2017-18 and beyond totals 753 affordable homes. This mix of rental and discounted home ownership assists a range of households with different financial outlooks.

park at most times of the day. And if it has become abundantly clear that this set-up does not work in the town’s best interest, why is it not changed? There are largely unused loading bays (another parking ticket trap for unsuspecting motorists) which could quite easily be converted to a dual use loading bay/bus stop. This would resolve the issue for at least some of the time. As a plumber with most of my work in Tonbridge, I am faced with this day after day. Driving around to different areas in the town requires the High Street to be clear. But most of the day it is not. And God forbid a bus is running ahead of schedule. It just sits and waits, and to hell with the rest of the traffic trying to navigate the area. Here’s hoping Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council plan something that works next time. And hopefully not at a cost of £17million to the taxpayer. Perhaps they would like to respond? Edward Power Tonbridge I am also clear that more needs to be done, particularly in assisting households in relatively low-paid employment, and will continue to lobby government to achieve that outcome. Nicolas Heslop Leader, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council

Social responsibility can be done I was interested to read your account [November 15] of Kent County Council [KCC] spending over a million pounds on anti-smoking activities and then investing KCC’s pension fund money in tobacco and fossil fuel companies. Councillor John Simmonds’ justification of this policy does not fit today’s facts. The idea that the ‘external investment managers’ who invest the Kent Pension Fund’s money have a fiduciary duty to get the ‘best return possible’, and this requires them to include such companies, is just not true. The Economist of November 25 states it is quite possible to match the market by investing in SRI [socially responsible investment] companies. If the managers are not able to maintain this level of return by investing only in SRI companies, then they should be replaced by some who can. It is up to those responsible at KCC to brief them to match the market by investing only in SRI firms. This should be all the easier since Cllr Simmonds states that the tobacco and fossil fuel companies represent a small proportion of their total investments. Robert Franck Tunbridge Wells

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s incompetence over the Public Space Prevention Order [PSPO] consultation has been staggering. First, the measures discussed with the council’s Cabinet and agreed as part of the consultation were expanded beyond what was agreed at Cabinet. A council officer took it upon himself to include Hawkenbury Recreation Ground and two other parks within the measures under consultation. The minutes from the Cabinet meeting and the consultation do not agree with each other. Then the officer responsible for drafting the consultation attempts to hide the PSPO measures behind an innocuous introduction relating, in particular, to alcohol control zones, making no attempt to include any of the other measures under consultation in the introduction. Once the public became aware of the consultation and started emailing Cabinet about the measures, the introduction was expanded to explain the measures being consulted on – and the three parks added to the consultation without Cabinet approval were removed. Soon after that, the introduction was rewritten, the parameters of the consultation altered, and suddenly all the comments left prior to this have ‘disappeared’, apparently due to a technical glitch. It does seem rather convenient. I have been told that all the comments left prior to the ‘glitch’ were captured and will be included in the final consultation. I hope this is the case. I trust someone within the council will take this matter seriously and look at the breaches that took place in relation to this consultation. I trust disciplinary action will be taken, where required. Dean Kenward Tunbridge Wells

Hail the American dreamer Love her or loathe her – there can surely be no middle way – one cannot but admire the tenacity of Councillor Tracy Moore. In 2010, prior to her deselection as a Conservative councillor after the Tunbridge Wells Regeneration Company debacle which cost local taxpayers almost three quarters of a million pounds, she was promoting – aided by £150,000 of taxpayers’ money – the Cycle Path scheme, which was completely unworkable and disappeared like mist on a summer’s morn. Now she has coming bouncing back with unbounded enthusiasm (what do American parents feed their kids for breakfast?) for the 1,200-seat theatre which will never pay its way. She says the secondary school pupils to whom she spoke of this scheme are more than happy to be subsidising it by increased local taxation and/ or reduced services for the rest of their lives. Never mind the Great American Dream – in Tunbridge Wells it would appear that we have the Great American Dreamer. Victor Bethell 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

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

TO Royal Victoria Place for Christmas shopping – it takes no time at all, just a nice card for Management, aka Mrs Calverley. (What’s all this fuss about Christmas shopping?) Anyway, Calverley was taken aback to see this huge advertising thing dangling from the roof that declared Snow White at the Stag in Sevenoaks to be ‘KENT’S BEST PANTO’. Oh no it’s not. Let’s have a bit of TW loyalty here. The very best panto is Aladdin – just few hundred yards away at the Assembly Hall. Oh, yes it is. AD-LIBBING is always dangerous, particularly in politics. Take the case of Council Leader David Jukes who, back in September at a meeting of worthies, suggested Tunbridge Wells is a place where people go to ‘retire and die’. Fast forward to the heated debate on the Civic Complex where the LibDem Councillor Ben Chapelard asked him if there was any ‘scientific evidence’ to back up his remark. Cllr Jukes said it was a ‘throwaway comment’. ’TIS that time of year again when parents take their toddlers on the nursery school Christmas outing. Word reaches Calverley that in some cases this is proving a tad too expensive. One such trip – it shall not be named and shamed – cost a grand total of £75 a head once the teacher’s gift was taken into account. “It’s more expensive than being at Eton,” whispered one dad. Clearly you were not at Eton, sir. MIND you, Calverley’s favourite seasonal tale is about the pub landlord who came up with the ingenious idea of cutting Christmas trees in half and hanging them upside down from the ceiling. The bar looked amazing. The problem came when the trees dried out and started shedding their pine needles. They fell with annoying regularity into the glasses of wine and ale being drunk by those standing underneath them. Oh how we laughed. Not. Happy Christmas to all Calverley’s readers. Chin Chin

Education News

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

NEWS

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EDUCATION Times WITH THE

Young politically aware students invited to Westminster reception IN RECOGNITION of Human Rights Day earlier this month, four Hillview School For Girls’ students from Tonbridge were invited to attend a special reception at the Speaker’s House, Westminster, where they mingled with MPs and peers. The event was held in aid of Amnesty International’s ‘Write for Rights’ campaign to encourage Parliamentarians to take action and to raise awareness of the work of Amnesty International UK activists. The girls were one of only two youth groups in the whole country to be invited on December 6, as they are part of Hillview’s Amnesty International Youth Club. Among the politicians attending were Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn, fellow party member and MP David Lammy and the Speaker of the House, John Bercow, MP. Hillview students Maddie Checkley, Heather Maxwell, Melissa Bailey

and felt so passionately about the cause that they all came into school for 7am to undertake their mock exams before heading up to London for the 12.30 start time. “Our students came away from the event feeling encouraged and inspired to make a difference.” They will now participate in the campaign, which encourages people to write a letter to those whose basic human rights are being attacked. “Each year those letters make a real difference to people’s lives, and our students are proud to be involved and continue that message forward,” added the spokesperson.

and Yasmine Malik all went to Westminster with their youth group leader and English teacher, Mrs Catherine Bishop. They even managed to have a brief chat with Jeremy

Corbyn and Welsh Labour party politician Ann Clwyd, who both posed for pictures with the girls. A spokesperson for the school told the Times: “They were so enthused

THE POWER OF WORDS Hillview students meet Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn at the Speaker’s House. (L-R): Maddie Checkley, Mrs Catherine Bishop, Heather Maxwell, Melissa Bailey and Yasmine Malik

FACE VALUES The students express their emotions with emoticons

Female pupils get on board the betty bus teaching experience The award-winning educational bus from ‘betty for schools’ recently paid a visit to Tunbridge Wells, dropping into both Broomhill Bank and Bennett Memorial Diocesan schools. The ‘betty bus’ has been designed to support and enhance young female students’ learning about the changes their bodies go through at puberty, and is an extension of ‘betty for schools’, a new curriculum-linked period education programme for teachers of pupils aged 8-12. The programme of free resources has been created together with education experts and young people, and is accredited by the PSHE Association. For more information on this learning experience and how it can come to your school, visit www.bettyforschools.co.uk

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NEWS

Weekly Comment

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Peter Lidstone

Tunbridge Wells councillor

The youngest member of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Peter Lidstone, aged 32, is a Liberal Democrat councillor and was the only candidate to successfully dislodge a Conservative opponent at the last local elections. With a full-time job as part of the charity Build Africa, the former law student of the University of the West of England is also fluent in French. His interest in politics came after attending a conference on the subject at Christian Aid about why Christians should get involved

Why £77million could have been spent on better projects for town IF I were to give you £1,000 this Christmas, how would you spend it? This was the question facing us as Borough Councillors on Wednesday December 6. Whether to borrow £77million (the equivalent of over £1,000 per Council Tax payer) to invest in a gross new £90million theatre and council office development. I love the unique culture of Tunbridge Wells, and firmly believe we should plan for the future of our town. But the mere fact of investing money does not mean that the investment is the right one. There is scope in Tunbridge Wells to do something really exciting. We have enthusiastic, created, gifted residents. But is what has been proposed to us the best we can do? For example, we will be digging up part of Calverley Grounds in order to build a 250-space car park underneath, with a payback period of over 40 years! Even our own MP Greg Clark accepts that we will move towards autonomous, selfdriving vehicles in the future. So why are we ripping up parks to build car parks? As for the theatre, I am excited by the prospect of

THE VISION Civic complex and theatre

Looking at the Bridge Theatre in London, this came in at only £12million and has removable seats, allowing them to host conferences and flexible theatrical performances. Both of these could bring additional revenue and visitors to Tunbridge Wells. My other main concern is that this development will be built on the backs of the poor. Among measures identified to pay for the borrowing (annual repayments of £2.3million a year) is the introduction of a flat £30 charge for garden waste collection, which will apply to all residents regardless of income.

‘My other concern is this will be built on the backs of the poor’

being able to watch West End shows in Tunbridge Wells. But again I would ask whether what’s being proposed is the best we can offer. The limitations

of the site (Great Hall Car Park) mean access will be tight, especially for the touring HGVs which need to access via Hoopers Car Park.

More worryingly the Council proposes using £250,000 cuts to community groups to pay for the civic development loan. At a time when many are struggling to make ends meet and rough sleeping is on the rise, cuts to local charities and community groups like Citizens Advice will have a savage impact on the neediest in our Borough. Perhaps the people of Tunbridge Wells recognise this better than their Conservative Councillors, which explains why every referendum carried out to date is against the scheme. We can do better, Tunbridge Wells.

WEST KENT’S ULTIMATE PROPERTY GUIDE – FREE EVERY WEDNESDAY A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BUY, LET OR SELL WITH THE

Available in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge

A farm full of charm

With a granary and barn, ponds, streams and paddocks

The Times is proud to work with:

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PROPERTY

To suit your budget

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Your at-a-glance guide to WITH THE

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Pick up your edition at the following stations

THE FARM HOUSE TUDELEY GUIDE PRICE £900,000

Tunbridge Wells Tonbridge Wadhurst Hildenborough Paddock Wood High Brooms

To feature a property or to place an advert please call: Patsy Kelly 01892 774781

Alternatively you can contact the Times of Tunbridge Wells in the following ways 01892 779 624 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1NU

UNDER £300,000

newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

CUNNINGHAM CLOSE TUNBRIDGE WELLS

f facebook.com/timeslocalnews

GUIDE PRICE

k twitter.com/timeslocalnews L timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

£285,000

A three-bedroom semi-detached house in the St John’s area. There is a spacious open-plan living room and dining area with patio doors to the rear garden. The ground floor also has a separate cloakroom and a

kitchen. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms – the master suite having views. There is also a family bathroom with a white suite, and a useful loft area. Outside there is parking and a rear garden laid to lawn with a patio. CONTACT Andrews Tunbridge Wells 01892 515144 www.andrewsonline.co.uk

UNDER £400,000 CROMER STREET, TONBRIDGE

£390,000 A four-bedroom semi-detached house in a convenient location. There is a sitting room with a feature fireplace, a family/dining room opening to a good sized kitchen, an upstairs bathroom and a garden. Upstairs, there are two bedrooms

with feature fireplaces, a bathroom and one further bedroom. There is then a fourth bedroom on the second floor with double aspect views and shower cubicle. The garden includes a deck terrace and wooden shed. CONTACT Wood & Pilcher Tonbridge 01732 351135 www.woodandpilcher.co.uk

To suit your budget

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

PROPERTY

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great properties by price range… UNDER £500,000 PIPPINS CLOSE, TONBRIDGE

GUIDE PRICE

£460,000-£475,000 Set in a popular location, this house is semi-detached and on the north side of Tonbridge. Internally, the house is well presented and has three bedrooms, two reception areas, a kitchen, an en suite and family bathroom. The master bedroom has rear windows with rear shutters, built in mirrored wardrobes and a door to the en suite. Outside, there is a garden to the rear and the front has an area of parking an integral garage. CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £650,000 ALBION ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£600,000 A double bay-fronted period property with character features and a large garden. The living room has a sash bay window and a fireplace, and there is a sitting room with a further bay window and fireplace, and a dual-aspect dining room. Plus a kitchen and cloakroom. Upstairs, there are four bedrooms (one with an en-suite shower room) and a family bathroom. There is parking to the front and a 55’ x 35’ rear garden. CONTACT Andrews Tunbridge Wells 01892 515144 www.andrewsonline.co.uk

UNDER £800,000 UPPER GROSVENOR ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

UNDER £1MILLION THE FARM HOUSE TUDELEY

GUIDE PRICE

£900,000 A period family home set in a hamlet in Tudeley. The detached house is believed to date back to around 1830 and is Grade II listed with a wealth of character. There is an open entrance porch leading to the three reception rooms. There are four bedrooms, one of which is an en-suite master

GUIDE PRICE

£680,000 bedroom. There is a wrap-around garden which can be seen from the double aspect rooms within the house. There is also off-road parking and a cellar, and the house is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

A well-maintained four-bedroom house with high ceilings comprising an entrance hall, sitting room, living room, conservatory, dining room and kitchen. Upstairs, an L-shaped landing leads to four bedrooms and a shower room. Outside, there is a blocked paved garden to the front for parking, and there is a rear garden. CONTACT Andrews Tunbridge Wells 01892 515144 www.andrewsonline.co.uk

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PROPERTY

Fernclyffe House

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

AT A GLANCE FERNCLYFFE HOUSE PEMBURY ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Drawing room n Morning room n Dining room n Study n Conservatory n Cloakroom n Master bedroom with en suite n 7 further double bedrooms n 2 bathrooms n Dressing room n Cloakroom n Kitchen/breakfast room n Playroom/office n Utility room & boiler room n Wine cellar & cloakroom n Heated pool with electric cover n Front and rear gardens n Detached triple car port and parking n About 0.93 acres

The house has easy access to Dunorlan Park

APARTMENT: n Kitchen/breakfast room n Sitting room n Bedroom, dressing room & bathroom n Original larder

A substantial Grade II listed period sandstone villa with a separate flat

OIEO

£3,250,000

Available for sale through Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk

Hamsell Farm

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

PROPERTY

A particular feature of the property is its mature gardens with sweeping lawns

Attractive farmhouse in a beautiful setting

AT A GLANCE

HAMSELL FARM ERIDGE GREEN, NR TUNBRIDGE WELLS ■ Entrance hall ■ Drawing room ■ Dining room ■ Library ■ Kitchen ■ Breakfast room ■ Family room/bedroom ■ Secondary kitchen ■ Study ■ Utility room ■ Bathroom ■ 5 bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms ■ Large attic storage space ■ Granary ■ Timber barn with separate storeroom ■ Cow byre ■ Large covered yard ■ Brick-built former stables ■ Ponds and stream ■ Gardens, grounds and paddocks ■ About 10.34 acres in total

GUIDE PRICE

£2,650,000

Available for sale through Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk

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FEATURES

Wine

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Six of the festive best Now that Christmas is almost upon us Times’ drinks editor James Viner selects six elite wines for the festive season and guides us on how they might best be enjoyed. Have a happy Christmas courtesy of these top tipples… High Street Perfumed Dry White Bargain Viña Indómita Gran Reserva Viognier 2017, Chile (£7.99, Co-op) This is a fine unoaked and graceful Viognier (pronounced vee-ohnyay) with ravishing apricot, gingerbread, peach kernel, lemongrass and mango flavours. Silky and full-bodied it’s a perfect match for the big traditional turkey feast or with a sensational turbot or scallops dish. It also complements cold cuts, a Boxing Day mild curry, fettuccine alfredo or Tomme de Savoie cheese. Top value.

Must-Try Sub-£10 Supermarket Christmas Lunch White Les Domaines Paul Mas Astélia Limoux 2016, France (£8.99, Aldi) This stylish barrel-fermented Chardonnay was made by the pioneering Jean-Claude Mas, one of Languedoc’s most hallowed winemakers. Honeycomb, grapefruit, grilled almonds and white peach divide the spoils of the overall flavour set. It is phenomenal value for money and tailor made for Christmas turkey and all the trimmings, butter-roasted chicken, seared or grilled salmon, vitello tonnato, raclette or French cheese such as St-Nectaire and Pont l’Evêque.

Pedigree Puligny-esque White Burgundy

The Society’s Exhibition Saint-Aubin Blanc 2015, France (£16, The Wine Society) From Domaine Henri Prudhon’s Le Ban vineyard, set less than five miles to the west as the crow flies from PulignyMontrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet, this energetic Christmassy wine is a whizz with everything from the roast bird to smoked salmon, brie and camembert. Winter’s best sub-£20 white Burgundy from a ripe but fresh vintage. Carpe vinum!

STAR BUY: Splash-Out Festive Silken Port

Graham’s 20-Year-Old Tawny Port, Portugal £37, Ocado/Amazon/Waitrose/The Wine Society) This mellow, aged tawny port gives an exhilarating ride of butter-roasted toasted Brazil nut, orange peel, baked peach and exotic spice, spread across the palate with a peacock’s flourish of enthralling complexity. Great hedonistic value and just the ticket with roasted almonds, cured ham, dried fruits, Christmas cake/pudding, crème brûlée, mince pies, farmhouse Cheddar, Comté or Stilton. No need to decant and best drunk cool. Consume within 4-6 weeks once broached. Feliz Natal! Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

Canny Christmas Claret

Château Pey La Tour Réserve du Château Bordeaux Supérieur 2014, France (£11.50, The Wine Society) Here’s a toothsome Merlotdominated blend with a rich seam of red plum, cassis, tobacco and bay leaf supported by ripe tannins and judiciously integrated French oak. Consistently top-flight claret from a merchant and grower (Dourthe) that I’ve applauded many times over the years. Decant, preferably to drink with roast beef or rump steak. The perfect foil for roast lamb, duck, Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan and Manchego. If you want claret with turkey I’d recommend a developed example (try the keenlypriced ’04s, ’07s or ‘11s) as it’ll have lower tannins.

Must-Try Mellifluous Red from CoolClimate California Noble Vines 667 Pinot Noir 2015, Monterey (£14.99, Waitrose) Pinot Noir and turkey is a fine match (duck big tannins with this lean bird). Spot-on and pleasantly inexpensive, this remarkably classy, youthful Pinot is packed with the kind of finesse, spice, toasty oak, juicy black cherry/red fruit and gamey, seductively perfumed pizzazz that even admirers of red Burgundy will identify (it’s made from an imported Dijon clone). One for the turkey with sharp cranberry sauce, goose, duck, salmon or glazed ham. You’ll struggle to find better at the price. A great way to support the (post-inferno) Grape State.

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FEATURES

Food & Drink

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

The recipe for a perfect Christmas feast Eat, drink and be merry courtesy of local celebrity chefs James and Chris Tanner. Here the brothers, who run the successful country pub and restaurant The Kentish Hare, reveal to Eileen Leahy their top tips for a stress-free season of eating and entertaining…

OH BROTHER: James and Chris Tanner run The Kentish Hare at Bidborough

A

lthough most of us look forward to celebrating Christmas, it’s fair to say that it can be tinged with a little anxiety if you’ve decided to host. Dilemmas such as ensuring your turkey doesn’t dry out while it cooks, to sourcing must-have ingredients like fresh sage or New England cranberries are just a few of the things that occupy the mind of the keen cook as he or she embarks upon their quest to be the host with the most. That’s why we decided to call on one of the area’s most famous pairs of celebrity chef brothers James and Chris Tanner who run The Kentish Hare at Bidborough to find out what their top tips are when it comes to creating a Christmas feast - and a stress-free season. Read on to find out what they had to say and to discover the delicious seasonal dishes they have created for their customers to enjoy…  Be prepared: Being in charge of Christmas dinner is no small feat with multiple family members and tastes to

SEASONAL STAR The Kentish Hare

GET STARTED Smoked salmon with lemon pepper crème fraiche, blini and fennel cress

cater for. For many of us, there would be nothing nicer on Christmas Day than enjoying a glass of fizz with friends and family, but instead we are stuck in the kitchen peeling carrots and boiling potatoes, while wondering if it’s possible to make the oven bigger in order to fit the sheer amount of food in. All of us have been there, and we silently swear to be ‘better prepared next year’. But it doesn’t have to be that way because with a little pre-planning and creative use of freezer space, a chaotic Christmas can be a thing of the past - and you won’t need to set your alarm for the crack of dawn either.  Don’t delay the cooking: There are lots of dishes which can be cooked ahead, with some even tasting better with that little bit of extra time. Gravy can certainly be made in advance and frozen, with the juice from the turkey added to it just before serving. Stuffing also freezes well, and if made in an oven dish, can simply be popped in to cook on the day. Peeling the potatoes a few days in advance helps too and you can boil your sprouts and parsnips and make the Yorkshire pudding

batter the day before. Doing so will significantly lessen the load.  Keep it simple: Don’t tackle too much at once. Remember, Christmas dinner is just a roast, with a few added extras. Don’t try to make elaborate, new dishes which you haven’t tried and tested. This will give you more time to make sure your dishes are perfect, such as increasing the

Food & Drink

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

likelihood of your potatoes being crispy and the turkey being moist. But for those who want to be a little bit creative, simply put a new twist on traditional favourites. For instance, honey roasted parsnips with pancetta and red onion, sprouts with chestnut and orange, or even garlic buttered savoy cabbage. All involve little effort and just a few extra ingredients but the effort is certainly worth it.  Room for improvement: Nothing is worse than having no freezer or fridge space so make sure you clear enough room for all your food prep in the lead up to the big day. An age old saying, but one that is still true is ‘preparation is key’. Be organised and start marking lists of things that can be bought in advance, as well as rough timings of when to cook what. Don’t leave it all to the last minute, or you will miss out on all the festive fun, spending the majority of time in the kitchen with sauce in your hair and feeling TABLE TALK The inviting dining area

Be the host with the most:

TALKING TURKEY: Rolled turkey crown with all the trimmings including honey roasted parnips exhausted! A well written list, and a rough schedule will likely mean the difference between a hot lunch, and a host of hungry guests.  The Night Before Christmas: For those of you not racing round the house trying to put the kids to sleep, make sure you do all the last-minute prep the day before. This includes weighing the turkey and working out its cooking time - this will determine when you will eat, so it needs to be right! Another tip, if a bit obvious, is to make sure all your frozen food is out of the freezer and defrosting. Then pour yourself a drink! www.thekentishhare.com

If you are not cooking the festive feast on December 25 but still have friends and family dropping by over the holidays then you still need to be prepared and have the following tips and tricks up your sleeve for a successful drinks or dinner party over Christmas:  Plan the menu and make sure your different dishes work together. Buy and make it ahead of time and accept offers of help otherwise you’ll spend your party stuck in the kitchen!  The trick to a stress-free time is to keep dishes simple and have plenty for everyone. If in doubt; bulk out your menu with crisps, bread and salads.  This is the time of year when local producers pull out all the stops so stock up on specialist meats, cheeses, chutneys, pies and cakes as they are a great addition to a party – and will help to support local traders too.  If you choose a party with finger food, keep canapés small. Either make them easy to hold, or serve on spears or spoons. Have plenty of napkins to hand, scattered around the room.  Don’t forget to ask if guests have any dietary requirements. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free is easy to plan for, but not much fun for anyone if you discover it at the party.  Don’t forget the drinks. Warm mulled wine or cider creates an amazing smell and adds to the atmosphere. Chill other drinks in advance and then keep in ice filled buckets. Cold weather means the back doorstep is a good back-up if you run out of space in the fridge!

SEASONAL DELIGHTS: The Kentish Hare positively sparkles at Christmastime

FEATURES

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FEATURES

Motoring

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

FIRST DRIVE:

Alpine A110

WHAT IS IT? In a time of oversimplification, and car makers vying for the market share in SUVs or crossovers, one brand is here to combine heritage and technology in the perfect sports car package. The Alpine A110 Berlinette might not have been sold in the UK for very long, but its reputation for rallying back in the 60s and 70s precedes it. So creating a new edition, imagined as six or seven generations down the line, is a dangerous game to play – but the risk has proved worth taking.

the centre of gravity poised around the driver’s hips. It produces 248bhp and 320Nm of torque, giving it a 0-60mph time of merely 4.3 seconds before it carries on to a top speed of 156mph. Although it’s turbocharged, throttle response and power delivery are almost instant, while it also produces an incredible noise that’s unlikely to disappoint even the most distinguished sports car owner. Economy figures are respectable, too, with a combined cycle of 46.3mpg and emissions pegged at 138g/km.

WHAT’S NEW?

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The A110 has been designed from the ground up by a small team based in France. This allowed them to develop a car that’s completely new – one that’s focused on driving but can stand up as a true style icon. There are some clear transfers of design from the original model, such as the bonnet spine, twin auxiliary lamps and design sculpted into the door. But everything has been dialled up to 11, and a sense of modern style complements every retro hint. This has been combined with clever engineering developments to create a car founder Jean Rédélé would be proud of.

The A110 is inspiring and invigorating with direct steering, and the weight distribution enables you to power effortlessly around corners. With petite dimensions, measuring just 4.18m long, 1.8m wide and 1.28 high, even navigating the Alpine along the narrowest of roads doesn’t cause issues. The suspension is the real success story, however, set up to smooth out bumps in the road rather than the hard sports car standard you might expect, without losing that sporty driving feel. That makes the A110 a suitable GT car, too (if it wasn’t for the lack of luggage space), and very driveable on long journeys. Even on our native roads, it’ll be smoother than some family cars.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? The A110 features the 1.8-litre, fourcylinder engine taken from the Renault Megane. As the car is mid-engined, weight is distributed close to 50/50 with

‘The four round headlights create a unique light signature, and the Alpine logo brandished across the front completes the vintage look’

HOW DOES IT LOOK? This is one car that has captured the elements of its heritage without

becoming disfigured or a caricature of its former self. There’s arguably nothing else on the market to share its design cues, and the attention to detail throughout makes it something very special to behold. The four round headlights create a unique light signature, and the Alpine logo brandished across the front completes the vintage look. The design team have managed to retain the key characteristics in profile, too, using a huge diffuser under the car to negate the use of a spoiler. The curve along the roofline and subtle flick across the boot distinguish it from any other car on the market.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? The interior also retains design cues from the original A110 Berlinette, such as the round dials and curved dashboard. And it’s inside that you get a real sense of the weight savings that have gone in – or come out of – this car. Lightweight bucket seats with a microfibre material have been used, hints of carbon fibre and exposed aluminium echo this. While the digital dashboard is simple, it also works well. But the infotainment system, shared with other Renault cars, is simple to navigate but not as responsive as you’d want, with dated graphics that don’t match the car’s style.

Can the Alpine A110 match up to the iconic cars that came before it? Rebecca Chaplin heads to France to get behind the wheel

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

MPG: 46.3 (combined)

Currently, the A110 is only available in the Premiere Edition specification, and if you want to get your hands on one, you’ll be sorely disappointed. Only 1955 were produced, in honour of the year the brand was created, and they sold out in five days. This comes in one set-up, with the standard infotainment paired with Focal speakers – and even those are weightsaving. And while there’s a choice of colours, little else is customisable. However, two other editions will be available from 2018. The first, called Pure, is more driver-focused, weighing just 1,080kg. The second, named Legende, is more about comfort, with plush leather seats.

EMISSIONS: 138g/km

VERDICT

PRICE: £50,500

Alpine has hit the nail on the head with the A110 and no driver will be disappointed. The attention to detail is apparent throughout, and while other manufacturers might claim passion in their design, the love in this tribute to the Alpine brand can be felt in every element.

FACTS AT A GLANCE: MODEL AS TESTED: Alpine A110 Premiere Edition ENGINE: 1.8-litre, four-cylinder POWER: 248bhp TORQUE: 320Nm @ 2,000rpm MAX SPEED: 156mph 0-60MPH: 4.3 seconds

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

Advertising

FEATURES

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FEATURES

Life & Style

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

LAMBERHURST GOLF CLUB ANNOUNCE THEIR CHARITY OF THE YEAR Lamberhurst Golf Club have joined the fight for every heartbeat and chosen The British Heart Foundation as their chosen charity of 2018. Sophia Davies, the new 2017/2018 Ladies’ Captain at the Golf Club made this announcement in November, and the partnership commenced with a week-long British Heart Foundation Bradshaw’s Pink Buggy Campaign. There will be continued fundraising days throughout the year, with the main Charity Golf Day taking place in September 2018.

NEW WEDDING PACKAGES TO BE UNVEILED AT PENSHURST PLACE AND GARDENS

As well as their own calendar, Sophia and the members will be encouraged to get behind campaigns including ‘Wear It. Beat it’ in the summer and a clothing donation scheme for the local BHF shop.

January will see the unveiling of many new wedding packages at Penshurst Place’s award-winning Open Day. From 10am to 3pm on January 13th, couples will be able to discover more about the banqueting rooms, including the Baron’s Hall and it’s candle-lit marriage ceremonies.

Sophie Davies, Ladies Captain, has said “The BHF is a personal cause close to me and unfortunately we all know of someone affected by heart disease in some way.”

Those dreaming of an open-air summer wedding can also visit the Inner Courtyard, as well as Penshurst’s Tudor Gardens – widely considered some of the most beautiful in England. Enjoy complimentary Prosecco and canapés as you explore the house and grounds, chat with wedding specialists and experience some of the luxurious finishing touches. The packages offer convenience, a sumptuous three course dinner, drinks reception and a stunning venue whilst starting from £185 per person.

Visit www.penshurstplace.com to find out more about your dream wedding

www.lamberhurstgolfclub.com

REGULAR EYE CHECKS ARE VITALLY IMPORTANT FOR ALL OVER THE AGE OF 50! Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that causes painless loss of central vision and is most common in people over the age of 50. AMD currently affects more than 600,000 people in the UK and is the leading cause of vision loss in the developed world. It is estimated that at least 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 have some signs of AMD and that its incidence will continue to increase to almost 700,000 people in the UK by 2020, due to longer life expectancy and dietary changes. Early symptoms of AMD may include difficulty in reading, difficulty in recognizing people’s faces and distortions in the central vision.

HUNNI HOMES SUPPORTING LOCAL SCHOOL Estate Agents Hunni Homes have been supporting local charity preschool, St Matthews, in their bid to build a gazebo for their garden play area. There long standing support for the pre-school, including buying them a new fridge and oven, has enabled the pre-school to improve their services for local children. They have pledged their continued support to the school and are keen to improve the garden area for the children in advance of next summer.

www.hunnihomes.com

Miss Lucia Pelosini, MD FRCOphth, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the Centre for Sight and Ophthalmology Lead Clinician at East Surrey Hospital has published innovative research on retinal imaging and says “We are extremely lucky to be able to offer these new treatments for AMD, however the early detection of wet AMD always results in better preservation of sight and reduces the risk of permanent damage to the eye.” It is crucial to diagnose and treat AMD as early as possible to prevent irreversible loss of central vision. It is also recommended that first-degree relatives of AMD patients monitor their eye health on a regular basis with simple non-invasive tests.

If you have any questions, call Centre for Sight 01342 306020 or email enquiries@centreforsight.com

ROSE HILL SCHOOL CELEBRITY GUEST Rose Hill School welcomed Tom Chaplin to their first House Music Competition as a judge. All three of the school’s houses performed for the previous Keane singer and Grange House were lucky enough to be crowned the winners with their rendition of YMCA. Tom gave all the singers feedback, awarded the winners their trophy, and performed two of his own songs from his new album, ‘Twelve Tales of Christmas.’ Head Teacher, Emma Neville, said “this has been such a fantastic event… cementing team spirit, confidence and collaboration as well as developing presentation skills. To have Tom here judging has been very inspirational for the children.”

www.rosehillschool.co.uk

Puzzles

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

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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.

1 4 8 3

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2 8 4 6 3 9 4 2 9

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

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

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★I

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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

I S L A M I R E O O F F E R N E A S E V I L L R J E E R E D A V C H I M E K N R S E D A T E O E O N I X ON

C A E G Y W L P L A T E H R A E D I N E R E DWA C M E M B R A A R Z S U S I E N N S H O T G

I S Q A U A A R E R D C E L N G I U N

Sudoku:

4 9 3 2 8 1 5 7 6

2 7 1 5 4 6 8 3 9

6 8 5 9 7 3 2 4 1

5 1 8 3 2 9 4 6 7

3 6 2 7 5 4 1 9 8

7 4 9 6 1 8 3 5 2

9 5 6 1 3 2 7 8 4

7 3 4 8 5 2 6 1 9

3 7 9 1 4 8 5 6 2

8 2 7 4 9 5 6 1 3

1 3 4 8 6 7 9 2 5

Jigsaw Sudoku:

2 6 5 7 3 9 1 8 4

8 2 6 4 9 3 7 5 1

9 4 2 6 7 1 8 3 5

4 8 1 5 6 7 2 9 3

1 5 3 2 8 6 9 4 7

6 9 7 3 1 5 4 2 8

5 1 8 9 2 4 3 7 6

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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CLASSIFIEDS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★III

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

CODEWORD

FEATURES

43

Recruitment

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

NEWS

WITH THE

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

45

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FEATURES

Arts & Culture

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

A noteworthy seasonal concert The Lydian Orchestra perform their annual festive offering tomorrow evening [December 21] and welcome pianist Peter Xie as their special guest. Here, Ruth Thursby, a prominent cellist and a member of the Lydian committee, tells the Times all about the rich history of this local musical ensemble with international appeal

O

UR orchestra was founded in 1976 by a violin teacher named June Clements. Since then it has been managed by the older players of the orchestra and assisted by a committee of professional musicians and parents. We are based in Sevenoaks and are a self-funded charity. Last year we celebrated our 40th anniversary. We meet three times a year for our spring, summer and Christmas concerts, and rehearse intensively for a week prior to each of performance. Our members are young musicians who are at the level of playing at least grade seven or eight. For those who might not quite be at that standard yet, but still want to improve their playing and performance skills, we have the Lydian Training Orchestra, which meets for intensive rehearsals three weekends over the year. This gives

less advanced musicians the opportunity to gain orchestral experience and acts as a training platform to the main orchestra. In 1995 our founder, June, set up a competition to find the Sevenoaks Young Musician of the Year. Their prize has always been to play a concerto with the Lydian Orchestra at Christmastime, and this year we welcome the 2017 winner, Peter Xie. Peter began to study music when he was three. His passion for the piano became evident at a young age, as he achieved a study award for the piano in China, and two years later a musician prize at the Wells Cathedral School, with Professor John Byrne. Peter later went on to win a Major Scholarship at the Royal College of Music in London. He has also won several national and international piano

YOUNG TALENT Peter Xie

competitions, including the first prize of the Hong Kong (Hong Kong-Asia Piano Competition), World Peace Awards-Arts Series Piano Competition and the second prize of the Windsor International Piano Competition. For this year’s Christmas concert, which will be conducted by Peter Young, our programme is

predominantly Russian, and popular works include Rachmaninov’s 2nd Piano Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite to exude a Christmas festive spirit! Scottish romantic composer Hamish MacCunn is also featured with Land of the Mountain and the Flood, a piece that was popularised in the

ORCHESTRAL MANOEUVRES At the Pamoja Hall, Sevenoaks School

Arts & Culture

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

‘It provides an opportunity for our musicians to play music how it was originally intended to be played’ Memorable moments over the years include playing in the Queen Elizabeth Hall for its 20th anniversary and regularly taking part in the Association of British Youth Orchestra Festivals in Edinburgh. We have also gone on biennial tours to various European cities. We believe it is important to perform live music as it provides an opportunity for our musicians to play orchestral and chamber music how the composers originally intended their pieces to be played. Different venues create a different atmosphere, making each performance unique. If you come along to watch us play, you will see a talented professional youth orchestra performing challenging music to a high standard. The Lydian Orchestra perform at Pamoja Hall, Sevenoaks School on December 21 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £15 for adults, £6 for students and £1 for those aged under 16. To book, visit www.thespacesevenoaks.co.uk/what’s-on

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Let the power of a candlelit midwinter performance light up your Christmas For the second year running, musician Richard Durrant is coming to Trinity Theatre to deliver his seasonal candlelit acoustic concert. Eileen Leahy catches up with the musician ahead of this popular festive event Can you illuminate us as to what your candlelit Christmas concert is all about? It is a celebration of midwinter. Christmas can provide an opportunity for us all to stop and think, to spend time with friends and family and to look around us.

Hodie, always feel magical, and with Amy and Nick both collaborating, it’s a showstopper. How often do you perform during the rest of the year, and what kind of music is it? I play around 70 concerts each year in the UK, Europe and South America. My concerts are usually solo guitar music – much of which I write myself.

How many years have you been performing this annual show? I have been touring my candlelit acoustic Christmas concerts for the past 15 years. I perform the show all over the UK, usually doing around 15 concerts through the month of December. This year we have included three Sussex churches as well the theatre dates, which take us from the south coast to Yorkshire and back. What can audiences expect from this concert, and what makes it so special? Lots of guitar music, accompanied by the most beautiful voice you’ll ever hear courtesy of our singer Amy Kakoura. We also have one of the UK’s greatest folk fiddlers, Nick Pynn, performing with us. But more than all that, this is an acoustic, musical exploration of our midwinter from a Christian, pagan and early music perspective. It is definitely a million miles from the more commercial aspects of Christmas. Which are your favourite songs, and why? Some of the older carols, such as Personent

What are your plans for 2018? This coming year I shall be releasing my first double album on vinyl and CD. It’s a musical

PHOTO: Alison Petty

1970s as the theme music for the BBC TV series Sutherland’s Law. The programme also includes other Russian works, such as Ippolitov-Ivanov’s Procession of the Sardars, and Shostakovich’s Piano Preludes arranged for the orchestra by Peter Young. In addition to our festive musical performance we also offer a summer workshop in Sevenoaks to give young people a chance to work on a concerto with the orchestra. Some of our past alumni include cellists Alexander Baillie and Steven Isserlis, clarinettist Emma Johnson, French horn player Alec Frank-Gemmill, violinist Tamsin Waley-Cohen and conductors Andrew Gourlay, Geoffrey Paterson and Nils Shweckendiek.

FEATURES

GUITAR MAN Richard Durrant

exploration of the British landscape called Stringhenge, and is inspired by the 5,000-year-old English oak that my concert guitar is crafted from. I shall launch the album in St Magnus Cathedral, Orkney on June 1, and then cycle back down to Sussex carrying my guitars on the bike and performing concerts along the way at significant sites. The entire project is dependent on crowdfunding through Pledge Music, so please look at the Richard Durrant Stringhenge project and pledge your support if you can. What do you like best about being on stage? At the moment I appreciate the opportunity these performances give me to say something about our current situation in the world. We are suffering a lot of selfinflicted hardship that will cause yet more pain and suffering over the coming years. I hope and pray that my music can, at the very least, be felt as positive and healing in some small way. Richard Durrant performs his Candlelit Christmas Concert at Trinity Theatre tonight [December 20] at 8pm. Tickets cost £18 and are available to book via www.trinitytheatre.net

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FEATURES

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FEATURES

What’s On

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

SEVEN DAYS OF FESTIVE ACTIVITIES AT A GLANCE

WHATS ON WITH THE

Eileen Leahy Local events

LAST CHANCE TO SEE FATHER CHRISTMAS At Bewl Water >> WEDNESDAY Every day until December 24 you will have the chance to enjoy the beautiful woodland walks at Knole Park in Sevenoaks. For further information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole There’s another Bring Your Own Baby Comedy gig happening today at the Plough in Leigh. The event, which is aimed at parents with children aged under 12 months, provides soft flooring and toys so mums and dads can let their baby play while they enjoy a giggle watching top notch stand-up routines. Doors open at 11.30am and tickets cost £10 per person. For more information, visit www.byobcomedy.com >> THURSDAY Aladdin is on every day apart from Christmas Day at the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge. Local actor and comedian Tom Swift plays Wishee Washee, with veteran star Michael Fenton Stevens taking on the popular dame role of Widow Twankey.

Expect lots of laughs from one of the area’s most popular panto ensembles. For show times and tickets, visit www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk Christmas wouldn’t be the same without seeing a production of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker would it? If you missed the live performances at the Royal Opera House in London, then worry not, as Trinity is streaming this magical version of it on to their cinema screen this evening from 7.15pm. Make sure you pirouette along to see this timeless festive classic. Tickets cost £19 and can be booked at www.trinitytheatre.net >> FRIDAY The Hop Farm’s Moonlight Drive-in Cinema is screening a plethora of fun festive films over the holiday season. Today it’s showing Home Alone at 8.15pm, then tomorrow it’s the turn of Polar Express (6.15pm) and Elf (8.15pm) to entertain excited children – of all ages – before the big day. For more information, visit www. moonlightcinema.com

ALADDIN in Tonbridge

If you would like to see your events featured in our weekly What’s On pages, please email: eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

THE ROYAL OPERA’S NUTCRACKER Screening at Trinity Theatre

PHOTO: Tristram Kenton

52

Hever Castle invites visitors to experience the magic of the season with a tranquil twilight walk around its grounds this evening. This is the perfect way to escape the often frenzied lead-up to December 25 as it allows you to wander around the grounds and marvel at the pretty and calming light – and relax as you approach the most wonderful time of the year. Booking is essential. For more information, see www.hevercastle.co.uk >> SATURDAY Still looking for some lastminute gifts? Then head on down to The Pantiles where you will find an array of inspiring and unique present ideas courtesy of stalls participating in the final Christmas Market. On today and tomorrow, it’s the perfect place to browse around before nipping into one of the nearby establishments for a warming winter drink. Trinity Theatre continues its run of The Wizard of Oz. On every day apart from December 25, it stars Scarlett Leigh Fawcett as Dorothy and Cooper the dog as Toto. A charming rendition of this tale is brought to life further courtesy of a live orchestra. Tickets are

priced at £20. Visit www.trinitytheatre.net Groombridge Place’s Merry Elfmas is lots of festive fun for all the family thanks to the Santa letter writing workshops and Christmas crafting sessions. But be quick, it’s nearly time for the little elves to wrap up and fly back to the North Pole in preparation for Christmas Eve. For tickets and timings, visit www.groombridgeplace.com This is the final weekend of the Spa Valley Railway’s special Santa Weekends, too. Enjoy some roasted chestnuts and a glass of something spirited as you travel through the stunning Wealden countryside. Tickets cost £16 per adult and £14 per child. See www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk >> SUNDAY It’s Christmas Eve, so what could be better than going to see a feelgood pantomime to put you in the festive spirit? Aladdin, starring CBBC’s Mark Rhodes and former EastEnder Michael Greco in the

What’s On

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

GET YOUR SKATES ON At Calverley Grounds lead roles, is on at the Assembly Hall until January 3 and is a big hit with audiences young and old. Tickets cost from just £1o and are available from www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk This is your final chance to experience a magical Christmas at Bewl Water. Visitors can meet Father Christmas in his glittering grotto, where every child will receive a special present. Tickets cost £8 per child and £3 per adul and the event runs from 10am until 4pm. There will also be a festive treasure hunt where you can enjoy a 45-minute ride on the Santa Express and a boat trip on the Bewl Belle while you look for clues. Available from 10am to 3pm every hour on the hour for an additional £5 per person. www.bewlwater.co.uk St Augustine’s Catholic Church’s Vigil Mass will be at 5.45pm this evening, followed by carols at 9.30pm before the retimed Midnight Mass at 10pm.

Paul Dunton Live music

53

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

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7, websites www.pdag.co.uk & www.thegreylady.co.uk

Event information at www.twforum.co.uk

WEDNESDAY Iona, George Butler, Simon Crabb, Richard Navarro THURSDAY Christmas party with Groove Agents FRIDAY The Violet Jive SATURDAY Closed for a private party SUNDAY Closed TUESDAY Paul Dunton Orchestra, Steffan James, Mark Morriss, Harry Whitty WEDNESDAY Mangetout Recovery, Andy Twyman, Youth

WEDNESDAY Back to the 80s – Groove & Club Classics special THURSDAY Standard Lamps, Suncharmer, Higgs & The Bosons, Paul Cheese FRIDAY Will Joseph Cook, After Party with DJ Love Actually & Will Joseph Cook SATURDAY Anti-Nowhere League, The Ramonas THE BEDFORD

2 High Street, open all day, free entry, more information at www.thebedfordtw.co.uk

SATURDAY Sean Fennessey & Friends TRINITY THEATRE

Church Road More information at www.trinitytheatre.net

WEDNESDAY Richard Durrant Christmas Concert

>> MONDAY HAPPY CHRISTMAS! >> TUESDAY Shake off the excesses of yesterday’s celebrations by going for a bracing Boxing Day walk. The National Trust organises many guided ones at its properties, which include Bodiam, Scotney Castle and Knole. See www.nationaltrust.org.uk If you’ve been at home for the past few days, then dust off the cobwebs with an outing to the ice skating rink in Calverley Grounds. Ticket prices start at £10.50 for adults and £7 for children. To book, visit www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

FEATURES

THE ROYAL OAK

Prospect Road, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late

SATURDAY Duvet Dogs SCALLYWAG CAFE

45 Mount Ephraim Rd Open all day, entry charge may apply Music from 8.30pm

WEDNESDAY Cabaret Open Mic Night THURSDAY Stuart Evans FRIDAY Christmas Cockney Sing-a-long SATURDAY Liane Carroll

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN

Mount Ephraim, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late

SATURDAY Cracks in the Land THE SUSSEX ARMS BASEMENT

The Sussex Mews, open all day, music from 8.30pm till late, music cover charge may apply

Sean Fennessey

THURSDAY Lunar Rhythms FRIDAY Joeythin, Cosmic Thoughts, Black Rock Sands, and The Sixteen Steps SUNDAY Hunting Holly and guests

THE SPA HOTEL

Mount Ephraim Road, full details at www.spahotel.co.uk/events

SATURDAY The Violet Jive. Three-course dinner, drinks reception from 6pm. Dining times available from 6.30pm until 9pm THE EM FORSTER THEATRE

Tonbridge School, full details at www.boxoffice. tonbridge-school.co.uk/whats-on/

FRIDAY Charity Carol Concert with Sir Willard White

54

NEWS

Sporting Times

CONTACT US:

Please send your sports stories to newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk

St Gregory’s welcomes new all-weather pitch FOOTBALL: PUPILS at St Gregory’s School and other clubs in the community have been able to dodge the mud and mire of sports pitches at this time of year as the Tunbridge Wells school unveils its new 3G pitch.

Difference The school’s head of PE Joe Cumber said: “No matter the weather and conditions of the ground we will be able to continue to play outdoors so our students can continue with their sport. “This project has been over

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

GRASS IS GREENER St Gregory’s players try out the new facility

three years in the making and it will make a huge difference to the students here and others in the community who will be able to use the pitch outside of school hours.” The facility was made possible thanks to a grant from the Football Foundation, which is funded by the Premier League, the FA and Sport England. Among the local clubs who will be taking advantage of the all-weather pitch are Tunbridge Wells Foresters, Langton Green, Ridgewaye and Tunbridge Wells FC.

READY STEADY GO Pupils are let loose on the 3G for the first time

Henly saves the day after wonder strike by Clunis

By Wes Filtness FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS kept going until the very end to make a point against visiting Dulwich Hamlet, who sit proudly on top of the Bostik Premier League despite their travails at the hands of the owners of their ground at Champion Hill. The Angels side handed home debuts for new signings Dan Bennett, formerly of Kingstonian, and Sam Bantick, who arrives from Heybridge Swifts.

Tonbridge Angels 1 Dulwich Hamlet 1

HEAD TURNER Joe Turner equalised for Angels

PHOTOS: David Couldridge

Rescue Chances fell to both sides in the early exchanges. Nana Boakye-Yiadom forced Angels keeper Jonny Henly into a smart save and then Joe Turner’s first-time shot was blocked by Rickie Hayles. The second half was just two minutes old when the visitors took the lead. A strong run from Nyren Clunis on the left wing saw him cut inside and beat Henly with a superb shot into the corner. Boakye-Yiadom came close soon after but

Henly came to the rescue, and there was another chance for the visitors through Sanchez Ming. Tonbridge were still very much in this game and a Chris Kinnear shot was stopped on the line. Then a fine pass from Craig Stone put Turner through on goal and he beat the advancing Preston Edwards to level the scores. The Angels were relieved in the 86th minute when Henly made an outstanding save to thwart Boake-Yiadom and save his side from defeat. The manager Steve McKimm said: “We set ourselves up to deal with their attack and largely we achieved that. Jonny Henly has made a great save near the end to keep us in it but we were pressing them even after that.” Tonbridge, who are ninth in the table, now entertain Harrow Borough on Saturday (December 23) and then travel to Folkestone Invicta on Boxing Day (both 3pm kick-offs). KEEP IT OUT Jonny Henly produced a fine late save

Rustics pay the penalty for handing out seasonal gifts Deal Town 4 Rusthall 2 By Richard Smith FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL were guilty of making crucial errors that led to Deal Town putting four goals past them and recording a flattering scoreline at the Charles Sports Ground. The Rustics were without their skipper Stewart Gostlow but gave teenage striker Bayley Colbran his first start since arriving from Tunbridge Wells. Rusthall opened the scoring on 17 minutes,

following a superb passing move on the right. Michael Tubb finished in style to register his first goal for the Rustics. The home side worked their way back into the game with their aggressive striker Connor Coyne proving a handful. He created the opening for Euan Sahadow to slot home on 31 minutes when Rusthall failed to clear a corner. The game then became end to end and Rusthall keeper Steve Lawrence produced an outstanding save diving low to his right to turn the ball round the post from a Coyne strike. Rusthall made the perfect start to the second

half when they took the lead again within a minute of the restart. The ball was played up to Steff Harper and the experienced striker held it up before slipping it through to Jacob Wright in the box and the young midfielder calmly slotted his shot under the advancing keeper. The visitors failed to capitalise on a number of chances to increase their lead and with 11 minutes remaining Deal were level through Coyne’s smart turn and strike in the box. In the 86th minute the home keeper appeared to pick the ball up outside his area but he was not

penalised and Rusthall appeared to switch off as his long clearance was allowed to bounce through to Sam Wilson, who was sent sprawling in the area. Euan Sadahow scored from the resulting spot-kick, giving Deal the lead. Rusthall now through everything at their opponents and in time added on the home side caught them on the break to make it 4-2, Andy Miller setting up a simple finish for Joe Reeves. Next up for Rusthall is a tough home game against Corinthian on Saturday (December 23) when they will be keen to avenge their 5-0 drubbing at Gay Dawn Farm.

Sporting Times

Wednesday December 20 | 2017

NEWS

55

Tonbridge Juddians 26 Taunton Titans 20 By Adam Hookway RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS produced one of their best performances of the season to overturn the form book and beat visitors Taunton, who were sitting pretty in third place in National Two South. Taunton opened the scoring with a penalty and then opened up a 10-point lead with a try but TJs rallied impressively from that demoralising start.

Duncan Tout crashed through the middle to feed Finlay Coxon-Smith, who stepped out of the last tackle to score in the corner. Liam Prescott converted from the touchline to make it 7-10 at the break. In the second half Taunton scored another try to go 7-15 in front but TJs responded again through Alex Reid, who dotted down after good approach work by the forwards. Prescott sent Tout through the hole and he offloaded for

George Lawson to crash over. Prescott converted to take a 19-15 lead with five minutes left. But Taunton hit straight back, their right wing scything through the field to go over from 60 metres out and put the Titans back in front. TJs pummelled the Titan line and a sudden switch to the right saw hooker Ryan Jackson out on the right cross over to clinch victory and maximum points. Tonbridge lie in 10th place in the table and go to Canterbury for an all-Kent clash on Saturday (December 23, kick-off 3pm).

PHOTO: Adam Hookway

Late try by Jackson gives TJs well-deserved victory

PACK MENTALITY Alex Reid goes over as the forwards work hard

Spence heroics fail to save Wells from narrow defeat Tunbridge Wells 21 Barnes 22

OSGOOD TIDINGS Shaydn Osgood goes on the charge

PHOTO: Bruce Elliott

By Roger Clarke RUGBY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS almost managed their fourth win in a row against a very strong Barnes team. The Londoners side sit in fourth spot in the London & South-East Premier Division with Simon Whatling’s side, who had never beaten them, one place back in fifth. After 12 minutes Christian Earle received an offload from hooker Luke Hawkins and took off on a 40-metre diagonal charge to the posts, Frank Reynolds converting. But Barnes controlled possession and the pressure led to two tries for the visitors in quick succession.

Accurate recycling for Barnes in the 26th and 29th minutes saw second row Jamie Collins go over on the left for an unconverted try and then fly-half Gareth Williams-Davies follow suit on the right for a try which was converted. Barnes were 15-7 ahead at half-time and scored again four minutes after the interval. They opted to scrum close to the line and marched over as No 8 and skipper Alex Hind got the score, Williams-Davies converting. Blaise Salle was sent to the sin bin for taking a Barnes player in the air but this setback only served to inspire Wells to summon up some of the form of the last three weeks. Skipper and scrum-half Chas

Spence took the game by the scruff of the neck. On 55 minutes he broke from a ruck, chipped over the top and won the race for the try, converted by Reynolds. Ten minutes later Spence broke once more, put in a grubber kick and again won the race with Reynolds converting. That left the home side a point behind on 21-22 with 15 minutes left. Spence went for his hat-trick, only being beaten to the ball by inches, and two penalties to the corner did not lead to any decisive strike so Wells had to make do with a losing bonus point. Tunbridge Wells now have a well-earned rest before they travel to take on the league leaders Guernsey on January 6.

Williams F1 rookie Stroll Vinehall make a splash with three titles drives for Jota at Daytona By Andy Tong MOTORSPORT: FORMULA ONE’S Lance Stroll will race for Jota-run Jackie Chan DC Racing squad in next month’s Daytona 24 Hours. The 19-year-old Williams driver, who has just completed his maiden season in F1, will be representing the Frant-based team for the first time. The Canadian will drive the LMP2 Oreca with former colleagues Felix Rosenqvist, Daniel Juncadella and Robin Frijns at the IMSA SportsCar opener on January 27-28.

Stroll told Autosport: “I’ll be out there with some of my buddies in the same car, and it’s going to be a pleasure to do this race again because I just love to race.” “We are the four young guns so it will be great fun, I’m sure, because we go way back together.” Jota director David Clark described the line-up as ‘very exciting’, saying: “Lance, Felix, Daniel and Robin are a collection of some of the finest young talents to emerge in recent years. “To have them all in the same car for such an important race like Daytona is a milestone in Jota’s history.”

SWIMMING: VINEHALL School’s swimming teams are celebrating after scooping a hat-trick of trophies in November. The girls and boys have both won their respective St Andrew’s Cup competitions in successive weeks, the former prevailing in Eastbourne by a margin of just five points. The school, near ­Robertsbridge, also won the Tonbridge Trophy for the first time since 1985 last month, competing against nine other schools from the region.

MAKING WAVES Vinehall celebrate their first Tonbridge Trophy in more than 30 years