Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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Times OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
INSIDE
Record payout to
rail commuters sparks concern
CHILDREN SHOCKED Playground is closed after electricity scare Page 5
By William Mata SOUTHEASTERN paid a record £3.5million to commuters last year who made a claim for late running trains under the Delay Repay scheme, according to new data. The franchise, which serves Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge railway stations, has faced questions about its performance, following the release of the Department for Transport figures. Critics are concerned the amount paid out in compensation could lead to higher ticket prices in the future, as rail firms look to balance their books.
FRENCH CONNECTION Jean-Christophe Donnellier on embassy visit Page 13
Upgrades Monetary compensation is available for passengers who have waited half an hour or longer. In 2016/17 [the most recent year on record] Southeastern paid out £3.5million, compared to £2.2million in 2015/16 and just £148,000 in 2011/12, when records began. John Reynolds, chairman of pressure group Tonbridge Line Commuters, said: “A lot of the delays will be caused by the upgrades to London Bridge, which is still causing problems. “They are having constant signal problems and tracking failures. And there are other factors, such as people trespassing onto the line.” On the £3.5million, he added: “The money must come from somewhere, and we could see passengers having to pay more for tickets.” Under-fire train operators Govia Thameslink Railway and Virgin Trains West Coast topped the list, paying out £14.9million and £13.1million respectively.
Continued on Page 4
ON THE WALL: Jason, Jacob and Isobel Dormon show off works contained in new exhibition The Forum: 25 Years and Beyond P7
Demand for ‘urgent’ action helping children with mental health issues By Jonathan Banks HUNDREDS of young people trying to deal with mental health issues are being forced to wait months for treatment and the fear is that some might end up waiting more than a year. This Friday [September 21], an influential health committee is meeting at Kent County Council to discuss the performance of the Children & Young People’s Mental Health Service. Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark has written to the committee to highlight what he believes are areas of concern requiring ‘urgent attention.’ In his regular column for the Times [Page 26] the MP said: “I was told that 343 young people in the Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells area have been waiting
over 18 weeks for treatment but no information was disclosed on how that total breaks down i.e. how many people are waiting six months, or one year or more.
‘It is vitally important young people receive treatment as soon as possible’ MP Greg Clark “Without this information, we do not have a clear picture. It is vitally important that young people start receiving treatment as soon as possible as many mental health conditions can worsen over time without it.” The MP added: “If we have a physical ailment, we expect to be seen promptly and receive whatever care is needed.
This should be exactly the same for a mental health condition.” Last year, a new five-year contract was awarded to North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT) to provide mental health services to Kent’s children and young people. Mental health services in general have a ‘scandalous history’ where children and teenagers have sometimes waited a year and a half to get an initial appointment. It was six years ago when Greg Clark first raised alarm bells about young people having to wait an ‘unacceptably long time’ to get the treatment they needed for mental health difficulties and the distressing impact this was having on families.
Continued on Page 4
LET’S RAISE A GLASS First Beer Weekend becomes toast of the town Page 10
THE PIANO MAN
See Elio Pace perform Billy Joel classics at Trinity Page 60
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‘We need to collaborate’ Continued from page 1
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Rail firm say greater publicity is behind the rise Continued from page 1
Since then, two different NHS Trusts have been appointed to run the service, including NELFT, and there are still continuing problems. Information being provided on waiting times is apparently so poor that it is impossible to assess whether the service is being run effectively or not. Ian Soars, Chief Executive of the children’s support charity Fegans said: “Like Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services [CAMHS], Fegans has faced a huge escalation in both numbers and level of complexity of need. We work hard to keep our waiting lists below six weeks as we know that any delays in the commencement of therapy can have significant impacts for children.
Southeastern does not pay out when delays are caused by planned engineering work. But passengers delayed 30 to 59 minutes are offered 50 per cent of their money back, with a single ticket, or 25 per cent, if they bought a return [see table]. A spokesman from the operator told the Times that more passengers were using
Delay Repay because of greater publicity about the scheme, and that the number of trains qualifying for Delay Repay had fallen by 24 per cent. She said: “Our passengers are our primary concern and if their journey is delayed 30 minutes or more then it is right that they are compensated for the delay.”
WHAT SOUTHEASTERN OFFERS TO PASSENGERS IN DELAY REPAY TICKET TYPE
LENGTH OF DELAY 30 - 59 mins
1 hour - 1 hour 59 mins
Unacceptable
Single
50% of ticket price
100% of ticket price
2 hours or more 100% of ticket price
“To that end we invested more than £300,000 of our own money last year ensuring no child had to wait too long; a clearly unsustainable position. “Fegans believes these problems can only be solved in collaboration with each other, working with CAMHS, NHS Commissioners, schools and charities. We welcome Greg’s support in helping to make this happen.” Mr Clark added: “I will not be satisfied until I am absolutely convinced that our children are receiving a first-rate service. “Anything less is unacceptable.”
Return
25% of ticket price
50% of tickets price
100% of ticket price
Season
50% of journey rate
100% of journey rate
200% of journey rate
Pembury loses out in campaign for a new specialist stroke unit
MOORE FOR YOUR MONEY Cllr Tracy Moore says the BID would be good value
By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
See also Page 26
HEALTH chiefs are set to decide against the idea of opening a Hyper Acute Stroke Unit at Tunbridge Wells Hospital. The governing body for NHS Kent and Medway announced yesterday [Tuesday] their ‘preferred option’ is to install the specialist units at Maidstone Hospital, Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford, and William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.
Equipment
SPEAKING OUT Greg Clark is also the Business Secretary
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Maidstone Hospital is a 40 minute drive from Tunbridge Wells. NHS leaders are making the £40million upgrades as a way of providing high quality care around the clock, admitting they currently feel stroke services do not meet best-practice standards. The Hyper Acute Stroke Units provide 24 hour availability to the latest equipment and medical expertise. They have been proven to reduce death rates and long-term disability in the areas where they have been installed. MP Greg Clark had urged people to support moves to have one of the stroke units at Tunbridge Wells Hospital. Patricia Davies, the Senior Responsible Officer for the Kent and Medway Stroke Review, said a final decision has not yet been made.
SIGN OF THE TIMES Tunbridge Wells Hospital “Today’s announcement is an important step in the stroke review process,” she said. “However, it is important to stress there are still several hurdles to clear before a final decision is made about the future of urgent stroke care in Kent and Medway.” The plan will now be finalised and examined before a final decision is made in January. Glenn Douglas, representing Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Groups, said travel times were considered in making the decision. There were five possible options of hospital combinations and the Medway Maritime Hospital also missed out. Miles Scott, Chief Executive of both Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone hosptials, said: “The recommendation is an opportunity for our highly skilled stroke teams to play a pivotal role in improving outcomes for stroke patients across Kent and Medway.”
Tory council to be asked to endorse second vote on EU OPPOSITION Liberal Democrat members of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council are to ask Conservative leaders to back their call for a vote on the final Brexit deal. Cllr Peter Lidstone will use a full council meeting on Wednesday [September 26] to call on the authority to endorse a ‘people’s vote’. Tunbridge Wells was the only constituency in Kent to see a majority of voters want to remain in the European Union at the referendum in 2016. Local Remain campaigners
recently released their own Tunbridge Wells passports in a tongue-in-cheek stunt to back their appeal for a second vote. Cllr Lidstone, who represents St John’s ward, said: “The prospect of no-deal or a bad-deal is becoming increasingly likely. “The public deserves the right to have the final say on whatever deal Theresa May’s government decides.” Lib Dem opposition leader Cllr Ben Chapelard is expected to second the motion, which asks the council to state their
concern about ‘the damaging effects that Brexit will have on local businesses, residents and local government’. Britain is scheduled to leave the EU in March 2019. The people’s vote policy has not been endorsed by the Tory-run central government, so the prospect of the local party wishing to back it seems unlikely. Tunbridge Wells Alliance, another opposition party, is meeting residents at an open evening on Thursday at TN2 Community Centre from 7.30pm
Bid for a BID boosted from Tory support A BUSINESS leader’s call to ‘stop boring retail’ and provide shoppers with more experiences, has been backed by council leaders. Royal Tunbridge Wells Together [RTWT] group wants firms to get behind a Business Improvement District [BID] proposal. This would see companies paying certain business rates within a set town centre area pay a levy towards creating events and services. Royal Victoria Place manager and RTWT member Nicky Blanchard outlined the vision of a changing town in a meeting earlier this month, as reported in the Times last week, where BID plans were viewed by firms. Cllr Tracy Moore attended the meeting and last week urged colleagues on the Conservativedriven Cabinet of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to support RTWT’s work. The authority is not governing the BID, but owns 16 properties in the marked area. Some of these are: Royal Victoria Place Car Park [and other nearby car parks], the Museum and Library as well as Town Hall itself. This means they will have 16 ballot votes when businesses are asked whether or not they want to adopt the proposals for a five year term. RTWT need 50 per cent of 640 firms to vote yes in the ballot [which runs from October 11 to November 8] for the plan to go into action from April 1 next year. Cllr Moore, portfolio holder for economic development, said: “Royal Tunbridge Wells Together should be supported because this is the right time to launch a BID in Tunbridge Wells.” Colleagues Cllr David Jukes, council leader, and Cllr Jane March, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism, also expressed support and the motion passed unopposed at the Cabinet.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
NEWS IN BRIEF
Drive-in cinema will get verdict later this week
Gold for In Bloom
NEWS
By Phil Spacey A PLAYGROUND in Sherwood has been sealed off after visitors reported feeling electric shocks on swings and a climbing frame. The park is directly under electricity cables in Greggs Wood Road, Tunbridge Wells, and led provider UK Power Networks to investigate after the find earlier this month. Suspect apparatus has been dismantled and removed, after two children reportedly experienced the sensations while playing.
Static Shaun Veness said his three-year-old daughter Poppy started crying and asked to be taken off a swing she was on. He told reporters: “When I took her off the swing, I felt the chain: it wasn’t static, it was a running current. It felt like an electric cattle fence. My hair was on end all day.” Poppy has now recovered, but the concern led
A spokesman said the play area’s proximity to the power SWINGS AND ROUNDABOUTS line would be examined. How the play area looked before “As there had not been any the closure reports of issues previously, it seems to be as a result of unique weather conditions. “We will work with UK Power Networks to redesign the equipment to mitigate potential risk in the future. We are investigating and are unable to speculate further until these investigations are complete.” Electrical Safety First, a charity that works to UK Power Networks to investigate. The distributor said it had not found any fault in prevent injury caused by electrical accidents, said: “This is not simply a case of static but of a the power lines or nearby electricity sub-station. Mr Veness added: “Poppy is okay and we’ve possible live current running through the chains gone back since but it has fascinated me how this of these children’s swings. “We are pleased to see the developer has since could happen.” The play area is on an estate owned by Town & removed the swings, which sit very close to power cables.” Country Housing.
HORTICULTURAL efforts behind Tunbridge Wells In Bloom have paid off with awards success last week. Committee members picked up the Large Town of the Year 2018 honour at the South & South East in Bloom event at the Amex [Falmer] Stadium in Brighton.
Hammer to fall on Auction Hall Festival of Hope set for conversion into offices
Knitted Poppy Parade
By William Mata
THE centenary of the First World War ending will be marked with the second Kent Knitted Poppy Parade this autumn. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is asking for help to cover Town Hall with the handmade flowers. For more information, email info@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call 01892 554218.
Hush Heath expansion AN Open Weekend at Hush Heath Estate will launch their new winery and 200-seater tasting room The View. With a record vineyard harvest predicted following a hot summer, the boutique producer is well-placed to unveil their major expansion in Staplehurst. Anyone wishing to book a free ticket for the Open Weekend, which runs from Saturday to Sunday [September 22-23] should visit hushheath.com
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Shocking discovery in Sherwood leads to play area being closed off
Trial date delayed THE trial of Thomas Fisher, 22, accused of murdering the 51-year-old mother Fiona Fisher, has been put back to October 1. Lewes Crown Court was originally scheduled to start proceedings on Monday [September 17] after the Tunbridge Wells shop manager’s death in April.
Local News
SOUTHBOROUGH’s Honnington Farm could be used as an events venue and drive-in cinema if licensing permission is granted. An applicant has approached Tunbridge Wells Borough Council with the intention of using the Vauxhall Road site to show films on six nights a year. In total, the venue itself could be used for 24 events in one year. The council’s licensing sub-committee did not give a decision at the end of their meeting on Monday [September 17] and a verdict is set to be announced later this week.
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will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE Auction Hall in Tunbridge Wells is likely to be converted into offices if a planning application is given the green light. Councillors will vote tonight [Wednesday] on whether to allow a developer to convert the building on Linden Park Road, near to The Pantiles, into workspaces for around 20 companies. It is understood the much-valued car park next to it will not be affected by the proposal, but it would see the loss of the longstanding auction house – which closed earlier this year. Development consultants Kember Loudon Williams submitted the application and wrote: “Regrettably, it is proving increasingly difficult to let and maintain the current auction house. “This is due to a combination of the general downturn in retail/sales activity and the everincreasing presence and competition from web-based auction sites. “The latter in particular has had a serious
impact on the application site and resulted in a high turnover of tenants, many of whom have defaulted on their lease agreements.” The applicant added that the auction house business was in ‘serious decline’, but the conversion would be a boost to Tunbridge Wells’ business prospects. In the past five years the town has seen 22 per cent of offices lost, with developers able to convert the space into more profitable property through permitted development rights. The council has now taken steps to ensure offices are protected.
A CELEBRATION of cultures has been organised in support of refugees living in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area. The second free Festival of Hope will be held at The Forum on Sunday, September 30, from 12pm to 6pm and will feature music performances as well as workshops and children’s entertainment. Romany Kisbee-Batho, part of the organising Tunbridge Wells Welcomes Refugees [TWWR] group, said: “Last year the focus was Syrian refugees, but this time we are looking at the whole picture. The event aims to encourage a warm and welcoming environment for members of the community and unite people through amazing music and food.” Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has resettled eight families so far, which amounts to 35 people. All profits from the event go to TWWR, a volunteer-led organisation who work with organisations to support families and individuals through the Government’s Vulnerable Person Resettlement Scheme. This can see help provided in ways such as teaching English, Syrian All Stars, Orange Circus Band, Dan Summer, Create Choir and the Paul Dunton Orchestra are set to perform. The workshops will give attendees the chance to try instruments. For more information, search ‘Tunbridge Wells Welcomes Refugees’ on Facebook.
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Twitter users mock police over ‘confusing’ prison absconder ad the force have so far hailed a success and began appearing in March. But unlike its predecessors, the advert has been met with head scratching. Twitter user Cynical Gentleman wrote: “A little confused by the advert. Does this mean the officer has now escaped from prison?”
Missing
IT is part of a campaign to recruit new staff, but Kent Police’s latest poster has led some to think officers are now escaping from jail. The advertisement seen around the county is part of the #MoreThanTheBadge drive and features a smiling armed officer wearing a baseball cap. A tagline reads: “From first responder to prison absconder.” It is the latest in a series of adverts which
Also on Twitter, Theresa Ferguson said: “Am I missing something with this advert? Your others in this group are great, but there is a mixed message with this one.” Kent Police was asked by the Times for a clarification. By way of response, the force issued a statement but did not wish to comment on this individual poster. Earlier this year county Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott announced a £1-per-month council tax rise for Band D properties would fund the recruitment of 200 extra officers. Superintendent Tracey Quiller said: “The campaign has seen in excess of 800 applications received from people keen to join the force. “The campaign is designed to show the wide variety of challenges police officers face on a daily basis and while all advertising is open to interpretation. Kent Police hopes those keen to join the force will be able to understand the campaign’s sentiment.”
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
UNKNOWN TERRITORY
OFF THE TRAILS: The event took in footpaths and trails
Runners wrong-footed on £35 half marathon By Duncan Audsley A HILLY 21km course is enough of a challenge for most runners, so participants in an event around Groombridge last weekend were not best pleased at being misdirected twice. Entrants paid up to £35 to take on the Inov-8 Maverick Original Kent events, which were held on steep tracks and trails on Saturday [September 15]. More than 350 runners finished across the three events, which were said to be 7km, 14km and 21km – the latter distance a tad under the half-marathon length of 13.1miles. It was on the longest course that participants first continued past a left
turn that had not been clearly marked and were made to retreat. And a few miles later, marshals at a fork in the road told participants to go right, rather than turn left. Some runners continued for several minutes without realising the mistake. The race was eventually won in a time of 1hr.50. A Paddock Wood Athletic Club member, who did not wish to be named, said: “I don’t mind the extra miles but it didn’t cost peanuts to enter. It would only have taken a few extra marshals.” Maverick is a professional company which organises off-road runs around the UK. The company has not stated whether runners would be offered any compensation and the Times
One of the runners affected in the confusion was Times Chief Reporter William Mata. He details his experience: FOR 15 glorious minutes I thought I might be in-line for an unlikely [and lucky] victory. After three miles of racing I had been handed the lead when most of the field had continued past a point where they were supposed to have turned left. A marshal realised the error and called for everyone to come back when I was at the exact point of the turning. I profited, and for a while I found myself with a guilty feeling and by myself in the lead. It felt too good to be true. And it was. Reality hit when I came onto a B road with a 4x4 coming the other way. It somehow didn’t seem like something that would happen on an organised run! I turned around and it became clear that, along with many others, I’d been told to go right at a fork in the road, rather than left. I had probably run 25km by the end. I can see the funny side of it, but for an organised run it was disappointing. understands no apology has been sent by email. Maverick also did not respond to a request for comment. Instead, the company’s Facebook post to advertise the event attracted more positive feedback. Jackie Hayes-Smith wrote ‘A great event, fantastic organisation. Thanks guys, I’ll be back,’ while others added their appreciation.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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The Forum plays its greatest hits to celebrate 25 years as a venue By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk GIG-GOERS are invited to dig into the back catalogue of The Forum with the Tunbridge Wells music venue celebrating its 25 year anniversary. This week Trinity Art Gallery is hosting The Forum: 25 Years and Beyond, with photos, gig posters and band memorabilia from over the years on display. More than 35,000 are estimated to have performed on the stage, which has also become a home for art, comedy and theatre since January 1993. Adele, Ellie Goulding, Coldplay, Muse, Green Day, Oasis and Feeder are among the big names to have
performed at The Forum, which is located on The Common. The free exhibition was launched with a press event on Monday [September 17] and will continue up to Sunday [September 23] from 10am to 3pm. Venue owner Jason Dormon helped establish The Forum in 1993 and said the exhibition is dedicated to the staff, gig-goers and musicians who have come together to keep the venue thriving. He said: “We’ve built a family, a HOW DO YOU DO?: Mayor Len Horwood [middle] Mayoress Judy holy trinity … of music fans, pasHorwood and Forum owner Jason Dormon sionate volunteers and talented artists. We can all be proud of the community we have created.”
Local News
TAKING CONTROL Tunbridge Wells’ own Slaves MAKING NOISES Pop group Pale Waves
PLENTY TO SEE: A private viewing of the exhibition
PHOTOS: Simon Partington
Nostalgia Celebrations have been held throughout the year, with Frank Turner and Pale Waves playing special shows earlier in 2018. A compilation CD, also called 25 Years and Beyond, was released in March on The Forum’s own Unlabel, featuring local artists. Isobel Dormon, Forum promoter, said: “I didn’t want the anniversary to be just nostalgia, but to also look towards the next 25 years. “A compilation album featuring the exciting, emerging artists who play at The Forum regularly now, and who will go on to do more in the future, was the perfect way to celebrate the next 25 years too. “We’re looking forward to more new music and experiences that you could not get anywhere else but at a small grassroots venue.”
WESSEX BOY Frank Turner performs
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SAINTS ALIVE! Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are normally hidden
Secret window on our heritage meets with historic success… By Sarah Bond THE inquisitive people of Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Paddock Wood and the surrounding villages have been showing a huge interest in history over the past two weeks, as the area enjoyed its most successful series of Heritage Open Days to date, with more sites than ever joining in. The annual event provides a unique opportunity to explore historic buildings and sites and hear their fascinating backstories for free. There was even an archaeological dig under a Southborough viaduct for those who packed their wellies. Many of the events were fully booked, such as Richard Marsden’s Opera House Tours and Helen Mitcham’s lifting of the veil on public and commercial buildings in Tunbridge Wells on behalf of
The Friends of the Museum, Library & Art Gallery. Trinity Theatre was overwhelmed with far more tour visitors than ever before as they revealed the large and stunning ‘secret’ stained-glass window normally hidden behind the stage, and more. The East Window is very rare and of enormous historial importance, having been designed in 1839 by Joseph Hale Miller, one of the leading 19th-century figures in the revival of stained glass art.
Theatre Outside, visitors were astonished to learn that the former church’s relatively small graveyard is home to some 2,000 bodies, many piled on top of each other in family plots. The grand, Decimus Burton-designed Salo-
mons Estate on the Tunbridge Wells/Southborough border proved another popular venue. Chris Jones, who played host there, said they had more than 60 visitors on the tours – many of them local but some who had come down from London, too. “We didn’t do anything for last year’s Heritage Open Days so it was superb, and I had a wonderful time,” he said. “The tour included some bits not normally open to the public, such as the Science Theatre, when it wasn’t being used for conferences. “And we tried to envisage the layout of the house as it may have been in 1850 – deciding which was the drawing room, which was the dining room, and which were the ‘female’ parts of the house, and which the ‘male’.”
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Participant Trevor Owen-Williams commented on local social media that Salomons was ‘one of the most interesting tours we’ve ever been on’. The normally private Mabledon, the childhood home of town architect Decimus Burton, attracted a stream of visitors, too. Areas such as Paddock Wood also did well, with an increased and varied choice of events ranging from railways and graveyards to shops, and involving the Freemasons and the WI. Caroline Auckland, one of the hardworking local Heritage Open Days organisers, said: “The community involvement was exciting to see, with so many people having a passion for their heritage. “In total, I was promoting 48 different events, walks, exhibitions and tours, and there were definitely more than the previous years I have been involved with. I would also say that the level of dedication and creativity by volunteers to tell their story was outstanding. “Many places, such as St Peter’s Old Church, Pembury (where poet Robert Browning’s son got married), Tunbridge Wells Cemetery and St Thomas à Becket Church, Capel, put on art, floral installations and craft fairs to bring their stories to life. “Cranbrook Museum, Trinity Theatre and the Civic Society were among those who also focused on children’s activities. “The Civic Society provided a downloadable walk for children around some of the plaques around the town, and this will be available all year. This is a growth area for Heritage Open Days locally, and we look to creating more such options in the future.”
Salomons Estate
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
PHOTOS: Craig Matthews
Town’s pint pulling power shown as hundreds enjoy Beer Weekend By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk TUNBRIDGE Wells’ reputation for producing quality beer was enhanced further with the latest event in the town’s Food Month. Hundreds got a taste of the beverage scene at Beer Weekend, which saw events staged in several pubs from September 13 to 16. This inaugural event was the idea of Alex Greig, owner of Fuggles Beer Café, where several events were staged. He said: “I have always been of the opinion that Tunbridge Wells has become a really good town for drinking beer, there is a great scene bubbling away.
Highlight “We have got good enough venues to stage something. It is a good way of promoting it as a beer town, and it’s getting a reputation as a place to eat and drink.” Other venues hosting events included: The George, The Pantiles Tap, The Beer Boutique, Pig & Porter Brewery, The Bedford, Sankey’s and The Royal Oak. Live music and speciality food was on the menu for visitors, while there was also time for talks about beer and a pub quiz. Proceedings concluded with a meal at The Small Holding. Mr Greig continued: “It was all organised on a short time scale. There seemed to be a buzz around town with people checking out different venues.
FUGGLES BEER CAFE [L-R] Kelly Fordham, Alex Greig and Emily Creasey
THE RAGGED TROUSERS Poppy Waring, Oliver Neville and Patrick Thompson
We had a lot of people visiting the town specially, we had people come down from London. “I got around every venue over the weekend and there was some good stuff going on. A particular highlight was brewing at Sankey’s with [award winning homebrew champion] Andy Parker. “If everyone wants to do it again we will crack on and get it done. The biggest challenge was the lack of time to prepare, we wanted to have it alongside Tunbridge Wells Food Month. “The feedback was great and everyone I spoke to was really positive about it.” Food Month continues this weekend with the Royal Tunbridge Wells Food and Drink Festival, staged Saturday and Sunday [September 22-23] inside Calverley Grounds from 11am to 6pm.
SANKEY’S Amy and Matthew Sankey
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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THE GEORGE Paul Fillis and Geada Degradi
THE ROYAL OAK Members of staff enjoy Beer Weekend
THE ROYAL OAK Alchemy Acoustic perform
THE PANTILES TAP Geoff Wentworth
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BUSINESS
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Why bigger sometimes really is better when it comes to investing In the second part of the interview, we gain more insights from two men in the know, and learn more about their particular businesses.
VILLAGE HOST David Cole
How does the SJP model work? Andrew Croft [AC]: It is easiest to think of SJP as a franchise. David is running his own business but he is connected to SJP. How he runs his business is entirely up to him, but he has to stick to the franchise rules. We provide back office functions for around 2,500 partnered firms. David Cole [DC]: We have three financial advisers as part of a team of 15, and it is continually growing. It is a local business serving the local population and there is a village feel, but actually we are part of ‘the mothership’ being part of SJP.
By Adam Hignett IT IS not every day the leader of a FTSE100 company which manages around £100billion in assets takes time out of his day to attend an office opening in rural Goudhurst. But St James’s Place [SJP] Chief Executive Andrew Croft made the journey down from London, as reported in the Times last week, to support one of the key wealth management firm’s principal partners, Burfields House, and its Director, David Cole.
Burfields House invited guests to their new premises at Mallard House in Goudhurst on September 4. This complements their other office, on the opposite side of the village duck pond. The knowledge and experience of Mr Croft and Mr Cole makes them well placed to comment on market trends, and last week they told the Times their predictions for the post-Brexit economy.
SJP listed on the stock market in 1997 and joined the FTSE100 17 years later. Is there a conflict of interest between serving clients and shareholders? AC: No. Being a FTSE100 company has its benefits and also has some disadvantages. From a corporate point of view, being listed is important. It also ensures we have independence, to a degree. There are some limitations because we have shareholders, but we don’t have one big shareholder dictating the terms or deciding we should chance our strategy every year because a new chief executive comes in. Because we are a FTSE100 company, well capitalised and solvent, actually must be quite comforting for clients.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Why would financial advisers join SJP and not stay independent? DC: I chose SJP because I would never put all your eggs in one basket, I would spread your investments across ten funds, or possibly 20, with equal proportion, depending on your risk appetite. SJP controls its own funds, but uses outside fund managers to oversee them. We don’t give them the money, they are all independent and external. They are contracted on what is known as a ‘sub-advisory basis’. I am trusting SJP completely to keep a very close eye on every fund manager, so if a manager does not do a good job, they say the game up and bring in a replacement. But because SJP owns the actual fund, there are no fees for the client. I heard SJP are quite expensive… DC: That is a rumour. We are not cheap, let us start with that. We cannot do what we do if we are cheap, but we are excellent value for money. It is a competitive business, and the only way to get people a little bit worried is cost. That is the only thing I have to compete against when people talk to us about considering coming our way. AC: It shouldn’t be about charges, it is about value. What would typically happen is an IFA will say ‘my charges are this, SJP are more expensive’. Are there any things that may cause problems in the future? DC: There will always be some horrible times, but the great thing about our clients is they trust us to get them through that. The last bad episode was the banks in 2008, before that 9/11, and before that the dot com bubble. They were some horrendous dips, but fantastic opportunities. This is because if you buy good quality anything, it comes out the other end at a greater value. And that is the key… buy more of it cheaper. When we think a market is going wobbly, we simply do not invest the £50million a day that comes through SJP doors. We hold back, wait, and then go for it. We don’t invest for the sake of it. Sometimes we wait.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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Meeting of minds on the Mount as embassy minister arrives FRENCH EMBASSY Minister JeanChristophe Donnellier has visited leading Tunbridge Wells-based law firm Cripps as part of a ‘factfinding tour’. Partner Olivier Morel welcomed the distinguished guest to the practice’s local offices on Mount Ephraim and held a productive meeting. Mr Donnellier had talks with a number of partners at Cripps on his visit, which was part of a UK-wide tour. He said the purpose was to ‘gain a wider understanding of the business community’.
Expect sparkling new horizons as country’s largest vineyard is born A MAJOR deal will see Chapel Down create England’s largest vineyard, capable of producing one million bottles of sparkling wine every year. The Tenterden-based business has added 388 acres to its land in Kent, after outbidding a French wine house to secure the lease on sites near Boxley on the North Downs. This leaves Chapel Down with sites amounting to more than 950 acres in total. This latest deal is expected to be confirmed after a legal process on or before October 11. The company’s Chief Executive, Frazer Thompson, said: “We believe
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Pet insurance firm is calling it Poppy love
FRENCH CONNECTION Olivier Morel (left) greets Jean-Christophe Donnellier
“I was pleased to receive Olivier’s invitation to visit,” he said. “I see a lot of the capital, but it is important to gain a wider understanding to build valuable connections.” Cripps, which also has offices in London and Kings Hill, is a Top 100 UK firm with a turnover of £31.6million. Mr Morel said: “As we are the largest law firm in Kent, the Minister visited us to find out more about the business climate outside London. “It was a very productive visit for both parties.”
BOTTLING IT UP Chapel Down will create England’s largest vineyard
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this area of the North Downs offers the finest soil in England for sparkling varieties, and successive excellent crops and acclaim for wines from our Kits Coty vineyard prove it. “This will be the largest vineyard in England, with the potential to produce up to a million bottles of sparkling wine per annum. “The sites will be planted over the coming years to enable us to grow our business to satisfy the increasing demand for our wines over the next 25 years.” It has not been disclosed how much the deal, which was announced last week, is worth.
YOUR dog could be the face of a pet insurance firm’s advertising campaign – but can only be selected if it is called Poppy. Sevenoaks-based Go Get It, which is part of the Markerstudy Group, is asking pet owners to put forward suggestions to fit the bill of a specific type of canine that they have found to be the UK’s favourite. Entries must be a small crossbreed dog named Poppy. Winners will see their dog featured on Go Get It social media and branding, as well as being given free pet insurance for one year. Managing Director Ross Barrington said: “With an estimated nine millions dogs in the UK last year, they truly are part of the family. “From finding the right breed to deciding the name that fits their personality, we understand the importance they hold. “We would love to find a Poppy of our own that could represent us and help us promote responsible pet ownership.” For your dog to be considered, upload a photo of it to Facebook or Twitter marked Go Get It. Entrants must also use the hashtag #PickMyPoppy and give some information about the dog. For more information, visit gogetit.insure
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Tobacco, fossil fuels and fracking: Council pension scheme criticised GOING UNDERGROUND Fracking is opposed by some environmentalists
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
under the Paris agreement, as is exploitation of all other forms of fossil fuel. “Not only should they be jettisoned for ethical and environmental reasons, there is also no sound financial reason to hold them. “The same applies to other unethical stock, such as KCC’s shares in the world’s four largest tobacco companies.”
Maximise
By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk RESEARCH has found the pension fund of Kent County Council [KCC] has profited from investment in companies engaged in fracking, as well as in tobacco and fossil fuels. The independently-operated Kent Pension Fund benefits all County Hall employees, from councillors to teachers. The Times has previously reported how fund managers invested £116million in tobacco while carrying out a £1.2million stop-smoking campaign, and £174million in fossil fuels. New data, released last week by environmental pressure group Platform, shows the authority’s plan additionally contains a £165million investment in firms who have engaged in hydraulic fracturing (fracking). Fracking is a method of extracting natural gas, and has attracted criticism for its environmental impact and possible link to water contamination.
According to a 2014 report in The Guardian, Tunbridge Wells is within a south-east zone where gas companies are drilling under homes. Big name gas brands Shell, BP, EOG Resources, BHP Billiton and Apache are among those KCC’s pension fund managers invested in. The companies derive most of their income from activities with nothing to do with fracking but, according to Platform, have all engaged at some point with the contested practice – which has led to KCC being criticised for their choice of investments. Green Party county councillor Martin Whybrow, a critic of the Conservative-led authority’s pension fund, said: “I have campaigned since I was elected for divestment. “Neither the pension fund nor the council, through its treasury management strategy, should hold shares in businesses that are directly contrary to the council’s policies. “Fracking is totally incompatible with KCC’s Kent Environment Strategy and the UK government’s climate change commitments
Platform said councils across the country were making investments like these, despite support for Cllr Peter fracking being Oakford ‘consistently low’. Cllr Peter Oakford, KCC’s Cabinet member for finance and the representative for Tunbridge Wells North, said: “The council’s pension fund is managed independently of the council itself. “External investment managers have the responsibility to get the best return for organisations and individuals – including the pension holders and their families. “All matters relating to the management of the fund are the responsibility of the Superannuation Fund Committee, which has a responsibility to maximise investment returns for a given level of risk. “The amount invested in the companies on this list is about 3 per cent of the £5.8billion invested in the fund. “The public will be familiar with the names of the bigger companies on this list, and it is clear that they derive most of their revenue from activities that have nothing to do with fracking. “In fact, none of the companies on the list of investments is among the UK’s top fracking companies.”
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Treading a legal path in charity fundraiser THE annual Tunbridge Wells Legal Walk was attended by 80 professionals to raise more than £4,000 for Citizens Advice. Employees of Cripps, Thomson, Snell & Passmore, Cooper Burnett, Buss Murton and MW Solicitors were among those to complete the 10km circular walk, which started and finished at The Mount Edgcumbe pub.
Jobseeker numbers fall FEWER people signed on for unemployment benefits in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge & Malling last month than in August 2017, according to Jobcentre Plus data. Both boroughs were part of a Kent-wide drop in unemployment, with Jobcentre staff claiming a ‘wide range of employers’ are hiring. Tunbridge Wells saw 575 people sign on, which is 70 fewer than last year. In Tonbridge, 685 people signed on, which is 40 fewer than the 2017 figure.
Rail fight for £300m NEWS that Southeastern Railway is looking to spend £300million on making network stations step-free has been welcomed by communities in Hildenborough and High Brooms. The franchise is keen to obtain the funding from the government and needs to back up their application with examples of where the money could be spent. Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark said he will lobby for High Brooms station to be included, while pressure group Tonbridge Line Commuters are leading a Twitter campaign for Hildenborough. It is possible for both stations to benefit.
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More than 24 hours to wait for ambulance after 999 call By William Mata A PATIENT waited more than 24 hours for an ambulance to arrive after a call out, new figures have shown. South East Coast Ambulance Service [SECAMB] has admitted ‘more work can be done’ to improve on response times to less serious calls after it was revealed only two of the UK’s 14 major trusts kept a caller waiting longer. The NHS figures for June 2017 to 2018, released last week, show a patient in the SECAMB zone [which includes Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge] waited 24 hours and 35 minutes. It has not been revealed where this caller was from.
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LINE-UP SECAMB aims to arrive at most serious calls within 15 minutes
The Welsh Ambulance Service recorded the longest delays, with four patients kept waiting more than 50 hours.
Concerning Lucy Watson, from pressure group Patients Association, said: “The figures are extremely concerning. “We know that demand has gone up on all health services as our population is getting older, and we need to see the level of investment increasing so our ambulances can respond in a timely way.” In response, SECAMB has said these calls
were not immediately life-threatening and some may have involved the patient’s family requesting a delay. A spokesman added: “We are pleased in recent months we have been performing well against the national average for our most serious calls, Category 1 and Category 2. “However, we recognise, that is there more work to be done both here and with less serious calls to further improve our response times.
“Our staff, both in our emergency operations centres and out on the road, are working hard to respond to prioritise our most serious calls and respond to patients as quickly as possible. “This is in the face of increasing year-on-year demand and periods of challenging cold weather earlier this year. “We have also dealt with the additional pressures that the heatwave has brought on the service in recent weeks.”
HOW QUICKLY SHOULD SECAMB BE RESPONDING TO CALLS? CATEGORY 1 For calls to people with immediately life-threatening and time critical injuries and illnesses. These will be responded to in a mean average time of seven minutes and at least nine out of ten times before 15 minutes.
CATEGORY 3 For urgent calls. In some instances, patients in this category may be treated by ambulance staff in their own home. These types of calls will be responded to at least nine out of ten times before 120 minutes.
CATEGORY 2 For emergency calls. Stroke patients will fall into this category and will get to hospital or a specialist stroke unit quicker because they can send the most appropriate vehicle first time. These will be responded to in a mean average time of 18 minutes and at least nine out of ten times before 40 minutes.
CATEGORY 4 For less urgent calls. In some instances, patients may be given advice over the telephone or referred to another service such as a GP or pharmacist. These less urgent calls will be responded to at least nine out of ten times before 180 minutes
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A cut above the rest: Brenchley’s butcher chalks up half a century By Andy Tong TERRY TESTER is celebrating 50 years of running the butcher’s shop in Brenchley, this month. More than 50 villagers turned out for a special party in the store. Tributes have poured in from Terry’s Butchers customers, and the champagne was flowing freely too. The Parish Council made a special presentation and gave him flowers. Locals brought in plenty of cake as well. “It’s a tradition to bring me cakes,” says Terry. “I do enjoy them.” The 72-year-old moved to the village when he was 16. The business is a family affair; his son Neil has worked there for 35 years himself, having started straight from school, and his wife Sandra still comes in to help out on Saturday mornings. Some of his customers have been coming in for decades. “Most of them are friends for life,” says Terry. “There are two or three customers who have been coming here since I started, like Mrs Harris, who’s in her 90s. She came over for the celebration and had a glass of champagne with us. “There’s a lot of second generation customers too, kids who have grown up since we opened.” But while some things have stayed the same over the last half a century, there have been many changes too. “It’s a lovely village to work in, but we’ve lost a lot of shops and if that
happens then the character dies,” says Terry. “The biggest change has been the loss of shops. Two grocers have gone, the forge closed, and the [Bull] pub has gone too. “It used to be a flourishing drinkers’ pub but now it’s a tea room and wine bar. It’s only us and the Post Office in the village now.” The retail trade has also altered with the arrival of shopping ‘under one roof’. Terry recalls: “We used to sell vegetables but as soon as the supermarkets opened, that was decimated.”
Specialist But he believes that local shops still have a valuable part to play in the daily life of small rural communites – and in everyone’s diets. “We sell a different sort of meat,” he says. “I think people who come to butchers are more into real meat. We hang ours, so it has a darker colour. In the supermarkets it has to look good. “And we cut it as people want it, we can give them exactly the right cuts. You’ve got to give your customers specialist treatment. “The younger generation don’t communicate, they just shop with their eyes. We can give them advice about what to eat, and we can give them a better deal.” He rejects the oft-cited charge that
ALL THE TRIMMINGS: Terry Tester enjoys another cake donation
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small independent retailers charge too much compared to their larger rivals. “I got really cross when I was listening to a man on the radio ranting about how he can’t afford to go to his village shop. I felt like ringing in and saying: ‘Do you know how much my lamb chops are?’” Terry has encountered other challenges too: “We had problems with foot-and-mouth and mad cow disease. But the customers rallied round to make sure we stayed in business.” They are glad he is still plying his trade in their midst. “I think it’s an amazing milestone to achieve, especially as so many small rural businesses are disappearing,” says Louise Hatcher. “He’s been a mainstay of the community for so long.” “I have known ‘Terence’ for almost 30 years,” adds Tracey Chambers. “I not only go there for my meat, which is usually asked for as a handful of this or a chunk of that, but always for the cheek and banter. I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else.” “I have lived in the village for 34 years and Terry goes above and beyond the duties of a butcher,” says Velsha Stokes. “Nothing is too much trouble. “He has become a very good friend to us over the years. A cuppa is often offered when you go in and there is always a biscuit for the children.” So has Terry contemplated retirement? “I do, every morning at half past seven,” he smiles. “But I couldn’t just sit about at home. It’s your way of life. “It would break my heart to shut the door. Hopefully Neil will keep it going. I couldn’t get a bloody job anywhere else, I know that.” What does he like to do when he’s not wielding the knives? Terry used to be a ‘great cricketer’, playing for Surrey Colts for three years as a left-arm pace bowler, then Linden Park and Horsmonden as well as the village. Now he likes an occasional round of golf. So here’s to the next 50 years? “Fifty weeks, more like,” he quips. “And another cake, please.”
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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Disabled take to the water at Bewl to celebrate Hilary’s life
By William Mata A SUCCESSFUL day of sailing at Bewl Water has encouraged the trustees of a charity to continue the work of its late founder. Hilary’s Dream Trust held their taster day to help 16 adults with physical disabilities or financial hardships to experience the sport. The charity was established in 2008 by Hilary Lister, who suffered a degenerative condition called reflex sympathetic dystrophy that left her in a wheelchair aged 15 and paralysed from the neck down by the age of 27. But thanks to donations allowing her to buy specialist equipment, she has been able to set sail on long journeys and started the trust to allow others to do the same. It was the first such experience to be hosted at Bewl, but
sadly Hilary was not able to see it as she passed away on August 18, aged 46. Organiser Kim Mason, a friend of Hilary’s and a trustee of the charity, said: “It was amazing, the participants were so brave. “Some of them were nervous about going on to the water, but they plucked up the courage and had a great time – they even wanted to have a second go.” She added: “I watched people who don’t move so quickly on the land suddenly moving swiftly across the water.” The Mariners of Bewl sailing group volunteered their time to help the participants into the boat and across the water. Even though some of the participants were in a wheelchair, all played at least some part in the boat’s movement. Hilary, who lived in Dunkirk near Faversham, controlled her boat using sip-and-puff technology. She sailed solo around the Isle of Wight in 2007 and then around Britain two years later, a feat which saw her ranked fourth in the world by the International Sailing Federation. Until now, the Kent-based trust had concentrated on providing financial support and information for projects. Beneficiaries are asked to raise money or awareness for the trust so others receive the same help. Ms Mason said the popularity of the first taster day might lead to similar events being held in the future. She added: “We want to keep Hilary’s legacy going. We can’t predict what the future will bring – but members of the public have been inspired by Hilary and we want to help people get their first flavour of sailing. “We want to give them the opportunity to live their dreams.” ALL ABOARD: Disabled groups learned to sail with Hilary’s Dream Trust in memory of Hilary Lister (inset)
LIFELINE: (L-R) Sonia Williams, President of Tonbridge Rotary Club, with Diane Bradley of Compaid and David Wells, the club’s Past President
Rotary Club and Compaid join forces to help fulfil ambitions THE local charity Compaid has received a donation of £2,500 from the Rotary Club of Tonbridge to help its work supporting disabled and frail elderly people. Compaid, based in Paddock Wood, assists more than 1,800 disabled and vulnerable people every year. It breaks down the barriers of social, digital and economic exclusion, allowing its clients to achieve their personal goals. Diane Bradley, Compaid’s Fundraising Manager, said: “We would like to thank the Rotary Club of Tonbridge for the fantastic donation we’ve been given. “This was awarded to us from the proceeds of their Charity Golf Day and will enable us to continue providing a lifeline to disabled and
other vulnerable people to live equal, independent and full lives in and around Tonbridge. “We are also delighted to now be able to advertise their fantastic work on our Tonbridge bus. Thank you Tonbridge Rotary for your continued support.” The President of the Rotary Club, Sonia Williams, said: “The members of Tonbridge Rotary Club raise money to help a number of local charities. “Our next big function will be the town’s Half Marathon on October 7, with funds going to The Bridge Trust and Pepenbury/Aspens charities to help the homeless and people with learning difficulties in order to spread our help among as many people as possible.”
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Ofsted chief calls SAS march soldiers acquitted as for less emphasis they were not trained about risk on exam results SCHOOL inspections have put too much weight on test results, leaving little time for focusing on the curriculum, the Chief Inspector of Schools has said. Commenting on the findings of Ofsted research into the primary and secondary school curriculum, Amanda Spielman denied ‘advocating a pub-quiz approach to education’. The analysis shows some schools take a knowledge-led approach to their curriculum while others plan around the development of skills. Ofsted argues both are important.
Pressure Ms Spielman said: “In the long run, a renewed focus on curriculum should reverse the current incentives that come from inspection being quite so focused on outcomes. “There are some who have suggested that because I have spoken about knowledge in the curriculum, I am advocating a pub-quiz approach to education, perhaps at the expense of developing skills or deeper understanding. This is just not true. Ms Spielman added: “For a long time, our inspections have looked hardest at outcomes, placing too much weight on test and exam results when we consider the overall effectiveness of schools. “This has increased the pressure on school leaders, teachers and pupils alike to deliver test scores above all else. From next year Ofsted will start inspecting early years providers, schools and further education providers under a new framework. It is expected to place more emphasis on the curriculum than the current framework.
TWO SAS servicemen have been acquitted of negligently performing a duty over a march in which three reservists died, after a judge ruled they had no case to answer. The men, known only as 1A and 1B, denied the allegation that they failed to take reasonable care for the health and safety of candidates taking part in the 16-mile march in the Brecon Beacons in 2013. Lance Corporals Craig Roberts and Edward Maher were pronounced dead on the Welsh mountain range after suffering heatstroke. Corporal James Dunsby died from multiple organ failure more than two weeks later. 1A and 1B went on trial at the Court Martial Centre in Bulford, Wiltshire. They were acquitted by a five-person board on the direction of Jeff Blackett, Judge Advocate General. A number of inquiries identified systemic failures but Judge Blackett found that their lack of training on heat illness and risk assessments meant others in their position would not have acted differently. “I have determined that there is no evidence of negligent performance of duty when the conduct of these defendants is measured against the reasonable serviceman of similar experience, knowledge
END IMMUNITY Bryher Dunsby, widow of Corporal James Dunsby
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Number of children vaccinated is falling A DECLINING number of children in England are being vaccinated against potentially deadly diseases, figures show. Data from NHS Digital shows that vaccination coverage declined last year for a number of immunisations which protect youngsters from a horde of different illnesses, from meningitis to measles. Coverage for the measles, mumps and rubella [MMR] vaccine for children reaching their second birthday fell to 91.2 per cent the fourth consecutive year that MMR coverage has decreased.
Meghan set to go solo
and training,” he said. He told the families of the three reservists: “You may have thought that this trial might have helped you obtain some degree of closure. “But this trial was never about attaching sole blame for the deaths of these three young men on these defendants. “The allegations of negligent performance of duty were only a small part in the overall failings - the deaths occurred because of the systemic failures within Joint Forces Command. Bryher Dunsby, widow of Cpl
Dunsby, called directly on General Mark Carleton-Smith, head of the Army, to prioritise new guidelines relating to heat illness and endurance exercises. “The MoD are still protected from prosecution for corporate manslaughter by Crown immunity, there is an obvious need for this in live combat, but I believe not in training in Wales,” she said. “Without ultimate accountability or punishment from the law, there is no incentive to do the right thing.”
THE Duchess of Sussex is to carry out her first solo royal engagement when she attends the opening of a major art exhibition next week. The 37-year-old former actress will attend the Royal Academy of Arts in central London on September 25 for the opening of an exhibition of works from the Oceania region. On Monday she launched her first charity project, a fundraising cookbook created by women from the Grenfell Tower community.
Anfield stages concerts ANFIELD football stadium will be used to host music concerts after councillors approved plans. The application for six concerts a year to be held at the home of Liverpool Football Club was approved by the city council’s planning committee yesterday [Tuesday]. The venue has been given a temporary two-year licence.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
McQueen portrait of all London’s Year 3s DIRECTOR Steve McQueen has said his ambitious contemporary art project to create a portrait of all of London’s Year 3 school pupils is the result of an ‘urgency to reflect on who are and where we come from and what is the future’. The 12 Years A Slave film-maker and Turner Prize-winning artist plans to oversee photographs of tens of thousands of schoolchildren from across the capital over the next nine months. Every primary school with Year 3 pupils will be invited to have their classes photographed for the project, with the resulting artwork to be displayed at Tate Britain next autumn.
Trajectories Tate Director Maria Balshaw has said it ‘may well be the most ambitious art work we have ever shown at Tate Britain’. McQueen said: “At some point in one’s life you tend to look backwards and you ask ‘Where is so and so?’ and ‘What’s happened to them?’ “I just wanted to reflect back on a certain point in my life where things changed and things churned. People have passed and died, people are doing well, not doing well. Those kind of trajectories, I wanted to go back to the beginning of a certain kind of consciousness.” Some 115,000 seven-year-olds have started the school year in a new class in AMBITIOUS London’s 2,410 Steve McQueen primary schools.
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Westminster security was not Cable stumbles on ‘functional’ for Masood attack ‘erotic spasm’ line THE Palace of Westminster’s security system had not ‘functioned for years’ and ‘ completely failed’ PC Keith Palmer on the day he was stabbed to death by a terrorist, an inquest has heard. Khalid Masood (pictured), 52, murdered the officer after fatally striking four bystanders as he ploughed through pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in a rented car. Masood lived in St James’ Park in T unbridge Wells and went to school at Huntleys Secondary School for Boys. He later lived in the East Sussex village of Northiam. PC Lee Ashby, one of two authorised firearms officers [AFOs] who was on duty in New Palace
Tech giants could face same rules as broacasters TECHNOLOGY giants such as Facebook and Google could be regulated in the same way as broadcasters, according to media regulator Ofcom. It has published a document designed to examine how to tackle harmful online content using lessons from regulating other media industries. A potential system of regulation would include issuing substantial fines if standards were not met.
Yard, said he would have taken the shot if he had been on a fixed post at Carriage Gates. He and PC Nicholas Sanders were positioned at the other side of the yard where they could not see or hear the carnage unfolding, and no AFOs had been near the gates for almost an hour. PC Ashby said he was responsible for patrolling ‘sector three’, including the Members’ Entrance, Carriage Gates and College Green.
Cover The experienced marksman accepted it was not possible to provide effective cover for the gates on his patrol and agreed the system left unarmed officers unprotected at the entrance ‘more often than not’. Masood’s rented 4x4 was as ‘lethal as a knife or a gun’ when he ploughed into the pedestrians. Consultant pathologist Ashley Fegan-Earl described the range of serious injuries suffered after the vehicle was used as a weapon. “Today’s document suggests that certain principles from broadcasting regulation could be relevant as policymakers consider issues around online protection,” the regulator said.
Interference It added that regulation should provide protection and assurance to the public but uphold freedom of expression and allow the public to share and receive ideas without unnecessary interference. The regulator also said that clear and strict penalties needed to be in place to enforce the regulations properly, including ‘meaningful financial penalties’.
LIBERAL DEMOCRAT leader Sir Vince Cable fluffed the key line in his closing speech to his party’s conference. He was supposed to say Leave campaigners had experienced an ‘erotic spasm’ over a hard Brexit. Instead, the veteran MP grimaced as he stumbled over the phrase, saying ‘exotic spresm’ instead. The mistake overshadowed the rest of his speech, where Sir Vince tried to reach out to Leave voters, saying that he understands their anxieties and that wanting to manage immigration is not racist. The former business secretary said people had genuine fears that globalisation was turning secure jobs into ‘crap’ ones. Demanding a fresh EU referendum, the leader rounded on hardline Brexiteers by saying they got an ‘erotic spasm’ from the thought of breaking with Brussels, whatever the cost to the economy.
Lib Dems vote for tax to bridge gap THE ‘gaping wealth divide’ should be tackled by major tax reforms, Lib Dem delegates decided. The party’s House of Lords leader Lord Newby said the changes to tax wealth in the same way as work were urgently needed due to anger at growing inequality. “Britain’s gaping wealth divide is undermining the social contract,” he said. “There is a crisis of funding across the public sector and the sense the wealthy are simply not paying their fair share has become a source of division and anger. The principle of taxing wealth like work is at the core of our proposals.” These include abolishing inheritance tax and capital gains tax, regarding them as income.
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Honda braced for big losses after no-deal A NO-DEAL Brexit would cost car manufacturer Honda ‘tens of millions’ of pounds, the company’s European arm has warned. But Ian Howells, the Senior Vice-President of Honda Europe, said Honda remains ‘right behind’ its production facility in Swindon and is not considering moving out of the UK after Brexit. The Japanese firm employs about 3,500 people at its plant in Wiltshire, building 160,000 Honda Civics last year, more than 90 per cent of which were exported to Europe and the United States. ‘Just-in-time’ manufacturing processes mean delays at ports could disrupt the flow of lorries arriving with components for the plant. “If we end up with WTO [World Trade Organisation] tariffs, we’d have something like 10 per cent of costs in addition of our shipped product back into Europe, and that would certainly run into tens of millions,” he told the BBC.
UK splashed out on drinks in hot weather CONSUMERS spent almost half a billion pounds more on keeping cool over the last 12 weeks as they coped with the joint hottest summer on record, supermarket figures show. From the World Cup kick-off in June to the August Bank Holiday and beyond, shoppers spent £228million more on alcohol, £178million more on soft drinks and £74million more on ice cream compared with the same time last year, while the overall market grew by 3.8 per cent, Kantar Worldpanel said. The warm weather was particularly kind to convenience stores, which benefited from shoppers wanting to buy locally for drinks and barbecue supplies, collectively seeing sales growth of 7.6 per cent compared with last year.
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Stanlow refinery owners may have to sell over unpaid debt THE owner of one of Britain’s biggest oil refineries could be forced to sell the plant as a legal spat over unpaid debts intensifies. Midtown Acquisitions is reported to be seeking a forced sale of the Stanlow oil refinery in Cheshire as it looks to recoup over $400million [£304million] lent to Essar, the owner of the site. Essar is ultimately controlled by India’s Ruia family, while Midtown is controlled by US hedge fund giant Davidson Kempner. A legal dispute over the loan, which was lent against Essar’s Minnesota steel mine, has been OIL DEAL Stanlow supplies 16 per cent of the UK’s transport fuel
playing out in the High Court in London. Essar has defaulted on the loan and lawyers for Midtown expect to have a New York judgment enforcing the debt obligation to be recognised in the UK within weeks.
Remedies The process of applying for a forced sale order of the Ellesmere Port refinery through the High Court is already under way. The refinery employs more than 900 workers and an additional 500 on-site contractors, and supplies 16
per cent of all UK road transport fuels. Matthew Getz, of Boies, Schiller & Flexner and acting for Midtown, said: “Midtown takes this case very seriously. On behalf of its investors, we will pursue all available legal remedies worldwide to recover on its debt from Essar.” Midtown is one of a number of parties that lent on the Minnesota project, which is now bankrupt. If the forced sale of Stanlow goes ahead, it is understood that the operation would be unaffected and no jobs would be at risk. Essar acquired Stanlow from Royal Dutch Shell in 2011.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
NEWS IN BRIEF
Apple pays ¤13bn tax bill to Irish government APPLE’S ¤13billion Irish tax bill has been paid, the country’s finance minister said. In 2016 the European Commission found that the multinational had received unfair tax incentives from the Republic and ordered Apple to pay back revenue it said was owed to the state. Minister Paschal Donohoe said the ¤14.3billion, once EU interest was included, would be held in a special escrow fund pending the outcome of an appeal before the European courts.
JLT sale puts jobs at risk UK INSURANCE broker Jardine Lloyd Thompson [JLT] is being bought by Marsh & McLennan in a £4.3billion deal, putting thousands of jobs at risk. The recommended all-cash deal will see JLT shareholders offered £19.15 per share, representing a 33.7 per cent premium on its closing price on September 17. The deal values the entirety of JLT at around £4.9billion.
Kopparberg moves in KOPPARBERG is set to start producing cider in Britain as the Swedish firm looks to mitigate the fallout of Brexit in one of its key markets. According to a leaked internal memo from the company, it will secure existing supply relationships with UK pubs and bars by starting production in Britain on a small scale. It could then ramp up production in the UK to respond to market demand, the memo said.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
SPORT IN BRIEF
ECB disrepute charge for Stokes and Hales BEN STOKES and Alex Hales have been charged with bringing the game into disrepute by the England and Wales Cricket Board following an incident outside a Bristol nightclub. Stokes denied a charge of affray resulting from the September 2017 incident and was found not guilty in August. Hales, 29, was not charged. The independent Cricket Discipline Commission hearing will be held on December 5 and 7. It will be conducted in private by a three-man panel chaired by former Derbyshire cricketer Tim O’Gorman.
Mitchell joins England FORMER All Blacks head coach John Mitchell has been appointed as England’s new defence coach. The Rugby Football Union has reached a compensation agreement with South African province Blue Bulls after lengthy negotiations. Mitchell coached England’s forwards under Sir Clive Woodward at the end of the 1990s, and he also worked at Wasps and Sale and in the USA.
Darby forced to retire BOLTON defender Stephen Darby has announced his retirement from football, aged 29, after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease [MND]. Darby, married to Manchester City Women and England captain Steph Houghton, began his career at Liverpool after coming through the club’s academy. The full-back last played in December.
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China delivers reprisals after Trump’s tariff hike on imports DEFIANT China will ‘dig its heels in’
CHINA has announced a tariff hike on $60billion [£46billion] of US products in response to President Donald Trump’s latest duty increase in a dispute over Beijing’s technology policy. The announcement followed a warning by an American business group that a ‘downward spiral’ in their conflict appeared certain following President Trump’s penalties on $200billion of Chinese goods. The Finance Ministry said it was going ahead with plans announced in August for the increases of between five and 10 per cent and 5 per cent on 5,207 types of US goods.
Pragmatic A list released last month included coffee, honey and industrial chemicals. The increase is aimed at curbing ‘trade friction’ and the ‘unilateralism and protectionism of the United States’, the ministry said. It appealed for ‘pragmatic dialogue’ to ‘jointly safeguard the principle of free trade and the multilateral trading system’. The Trump administration announced the tar-
iffs on some 5,000 Chinese-made goods will start at 10 per cent, beginning on Monday, and rise to 25 per cent on January 1. The Chinese commerce ministry said: “We deeply regret this. China will adopt countermeasures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests and the global free trade order.” Mr Trump has threatened to add a further $267billion dollars [£203billion] in Chinese imports to the target list if it retaliated. That would raise the total affected by US penalties to $517billion, covering nearly everything China sells the United States. The American Chamber of Commerce in China warned Washington is underestimating Beijing’s determination to fight back. Chamber chairman William Zarit said: “The downward spiral that we have previously warned about now seems certain to materialise. “Contrary to views in Washington, China can – and will – dig its heels in and we are not optimistic about the prospect for a resolution in the short term. “No one will emerge victorious from this counter-productive cycle.”
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Putin blames ‘chain of tragic circumstances’ RUSSIA’S President Vladimir Putin has said that ‘a chain of tragic circumstances’ is to blame for a military aircraft shot down by a Syrian missile. He also vowed to boost security for Russian troops stationed in the region. The Russian reconnaissance aircraft was shot down by Syrian missile defence over the Mediterranean Sea late on Monday. The missiles were reportedly targeting Israeli jets nearby. All 15 people on board are reported dead. Mr Putin said that the Kremlin will look into circumstances surrounding the crash. He made his remarks several hours after the Russian Defence Ministry put the blame squarely on Israel for ‘provoking’ the incident. Mr Putin did not voice his grievances against Israel, but said he supported the Defence Ministry’s statement.
Spanish golfer killed by homeless man A HOMELESS man attacked and killed a top amateur golfer from Spain who was playing a round near her university campus in central Iowa, leaving her body in a pond on the course, police said. Collin Daniel Richards, 22, has been charged with first-degree murder over the death of Celia Barquin Arozamena, a student at Iowa State University. Ms Barquin (pictured) was found on Monday morning in a pond at Coldwater Golf Links in Ames, about 30 miles north of Des Moines. Officers found Ms Barquin’s body with several stab wounds to her upper torso, head and neck, according to the criminal complaint filed against Richards.
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Letters
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor at Runcie Court, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG What a waste of time: Mr Chapelard won the battle – but lost the war
lukewarm and known to be anti-Brexit. He sits in Cabinet and, as Business Secretary, should be out there banging the drum for post-Brexit opportunities, but never is. As Business Secretary, why was he not in Africa negotiating trade deals with the PM? Does he have an aversion to public dancing? Did Theresa May deliberately leave her ‘wets’ behind? Or did Mr Clark deliberately make his excuses? Corbyn and Clark: Unlikely bedfellows, but the truth can be stranger than fiction. John Ward Moorhouse Tunbridge Wells
The passport to a successful future
BIN THERE, DONE THAT Ben Chapelard Well done Ben Chapelard! Previously, I had a brown bin collection as part of my council services and I took my glass bottles to the supermarket collection point when I did my weekly shop, an arrangement that needed no do-gooder interfering improvement. Now I must pay for garden waste to be collected and I have a used glass collection service I don’t need. Does he not see that in his lobbying for one, we have lost the other? Did Mr Chapelard really believe we could have both for no tax increase? Does he continue to labour under a mistaken left-leaning Liberal socialist delusion
Town’s Leave voters aren’t deplorable As we move into the new political season after a long summer break, the issue at the centre of everyone’s mind is the Brexit negotiation. Will the Prime Minister come back with something even approximating what the majority of Britons voted for in 2016? Tunbridge Wells is rather peculiar in this context. Its ruling caste is sometimes so self-absorbed as a middle-class outpost of cosmopolitan London that it, and perhaps its MP on recent record, sometimes forgets that 29,320 of our electors voted to leave the European Union. Every constituency that borders ours voted the same way by majorities ranging from 54.4 to 59.4 per cent. Half of these had turnovers higher than that of Tunbridge Wells. Yet despite this, Brexiters in Tunbridge Wells are made to feel as if they are second-class citizens, even ‘deplorables’, by sour Remainers. We are not. We thought long and carefully before coming to the view that we have. Brexit is going to happen in some form even if we rightly fear a betrayal of trust by this lacklustre government and face the probability that our fight for full sovereignty will have to go on for a few more years yet. It is now time for local Brexiters to start
that the state can provide everything and we pay nothing? What next on his statist agenda? I see food waste on his list, but this household doesn’t produce any. The council has played him like a trout and we are the poorer. As for fly-tipping, I think he must examine his own conscience on this. Flapping on about brown bin money being used to fund the new Civic Centre is a transparent attempt to divert the flak away from his scheme gone wrong. Joseph Howard Tunbridge Wells asserting their pride in a major achievement – a courageous vote for freedom in an atmosphere of manufactured fear. Our local MP should not be speaking for big business’s attempts to preserve its own interests over that of our shared national democracy. Courage, mes braves! Tim Pendry Tunbridge Wells
Clark and Corbyn: Strange bedfellows You would not think that Greg Clark and Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party had much in common, apart from Clark’s previous, wet Liberal Democrat past. They are members and representatives of political parties that both went into the last election on near identical platforms of leaving Europe; they both stood up and subscribed publicly to the tenet that Britain will leave the EU. Yet, since then, Corbyn has cynically disavowed himself of this – simply because it’s an opposition thing to oppose the sitting government regardless of what your voting public wants and what your principles are. But we know they can be anything one wants at any given time in politics. Clark is mute on the matter, but generally
I was very pleased to get one of the Tunbridge Wells passports, which were reported in the Times [September 5]. Although Tunbridge Wells was the only constituency in Kent to have voted Remain, a lot has changed since the referendum two years ago and public opinion is turning. Many people who voted to leave the EU now realise that the promised benefits of Brexit won’t be delivered, and that a bad deal would damage and isolate the UK. I shall be supporting the march in London on October 20 calling for a people’s vote on the final Brexit deal. AJ Palmer Via email
Is Brexit a case of mistaken identity? Congratulations on your cover picture [September 5] showing a group of people displaying their European ‘passports’. It is exciting to be reminded, amid all our concerns about jobs, prices, exchange rates, immigrants, etc, that our membership of the European Union is also about our identity. Can we countenance throwing away citizenship within a world power of half a billion people? Dr Brian Beeley Tunbridge Wells
Our streets are not paved with gold For some time I was disappointed that, whilst walking through town, people rarely would look at you, keeping their gaze firmly to the floor, as they passed by. Then, as the penny dropped, I realised they were keenly looking out for the many trip hazards that pervade our pavements in Tunbridge Wells. I must be similarly generous to those who speed through our streets on two wheels, despite the potholes and, of course, the lack of police presence. It occurred to me that they wear their helmets, not – as one might suppose – to obey the law, but to protect their ears from the unnecessarily, ear-shattering noise emitting from car exhausts. However, our dear borough council, believing all is fine and dandy in Tunbridge Wells, continue to press for Compulsory Purchase Orders that will harm some of our businesses in order to pursue their vanity project. We should be in no doubt that the cost of
services in this borough will increase in order to pay for this unwanted scheme. Perhaps they should ask residents: “Would you rather have a new theatre or a Hoopers store in Tunbridge Wells?” Martin Dawes Via email
Experience suggests it won’t add up Is this a case of ‘non-joined up thinking’ or is it me? On the Times of Tunbridge Wells front page we read that more big brand shops are closing their stores in Tunbridge Wells [September 5]. Cllr Tracy Moore tells us that this is not a problem as such closures are happening all over the UK. But are all local councils intent on borrowing up to £90million to fund a Civic Centre project? Shops shut, rates aren’t collected, revenues fall. Do the maths! Has this new loss of revenue been factored into the calculations? Greig Bannerman Frant
The show must go on at Assembly We attended the Russian State Opera performance of Carmen at the Assembly Hall theatre recently. It was first-class. The theatre was about 80 per cent full. We spoke to one couple there from Rochester and another from Ticehurst. Both thought, like us, that the hall was an eminently suitable venue for this show. We were curious to see new carpets seating and other recent significant improvements to the bar and conveniences when the short-term policy of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is to demolish the building. Spending £90million plus on replacing the theatre and council offices continues to look like a risky extravagance based on a fantasy. A top-end council would cancel it tomorrow. Ann and John Pickering Via email
Showfields has put community first I really would like to pay tribute to the trustees, staff, friends and supporters of the Showfields Community Centre who came together with local organisations to create a lovely, friendly Fun Day event on Saturday, September 1, particularly for local children. There were lots of activities, including dance and football for the children, and we all enjoyed socialising to the accompaniment of excellent live music. The café and barbeque were very popular, and it was even possible to see a local borough councillor in the stocks – a brave move in these fraught times. The organisers are to be congratulated for doing so much with so little. One is left feeling that the council could be doing do so much more for local communities by giving more support to community organisations rather than engaging in grandiose town centre projects which are going to drain its finances and end up being paid for by these communities. John Telling 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 is away enjoying the hop harvest
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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EDUCATION Times WITH THE
An open invitation to explore the best secondary education With senior schools in both the Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge areas about to stage those all-important open days, here’s out guide to what prospective pupils – and their parents – should be looking for… OVER the next couple of months, all our local secondary schools, from both the independent and state sector, will be hosting a series of open days. These are a fantastic opportunity for parents and their children, usually currently in Years 5 and 6, to go along to a variety of schools in order to have a look at the facilities, ask questions, meet the head and their team of teachers and decide what type of senior education experience the children would most benefit from. Whether you are looking for a grammar, an academy or a faith school, there will be an event that’s suitable for you, so create a wish list of schools by looking at their websites. But before you diarise each visit it’s important to consider a few key things to make the right decision for your child.
Flexibility Firstly, if you are considering a selective school you will need to have made your choice ideally by the end of Year 5, as children who want to attend a grammar will have to sit the Kent Test – also known as the 11-plus exam – in their first week of being in Year 6. Once you know their results (published this year on October 11), you can check online for the dates you can visit if your child has passed. If they have not passed, and you wish to appeal, you can usually still attend the open days, but it’s best to check with each individual school directly. With non-selectives and independents you have a bit more flexibility, and can still be pondering your choice as children begin Year 6 of primary. During an open day visit, parents and pupils can tour around the schools while students and teachers are in, thereby getting a genuine feel for each one. There will be a talk by the headteacher, and the head of admissions will be able to give you all the information you need regarding the application criteria. When visiting, there are many useful things to bear in mind, such as taking the time to chat to pupils as well as the teaching staff, and also to closely observe any displayed work as well as classroom behaviour. It’s also important to have a clear idea of what
questions you may want to ask, both on a one-to-one basis as well as in a Q&A session with members of the senior leadership team, so
‘Try to also look beyond the academia and find out what extra-curricular activities are on offer’ you know exactly what you want to get out of each school visit. Try to also look beyond the academia and find out what extra-curricular activities are on offer in order for your child to develop further skills
outside the classroom environment. These could be sports, drama or music based, or schemes such as the The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which teaches vital skills. And always have your child and their particular requirements in mind first before you think about proximity or a school’s status. But perhaps the most useful piece of advice is to take your child with you on all visits so they can let you know what they think. They are the ones who will be going to the school every day, so their needs and aspirations have to be met – but there’s also a lot to be said for instinct. An official open day is a good indicator of a school’s overall character. If you find it’s too disorganised, then this may be the way the school is run, too.
Calling all budding musicians… The 17th Tonbridge Scout and Guide Band will be holding a music activity day at Weald of Kent Grammar School this Saturday [September 22] from 9am until noon. Young people from around the local area who have any level of musical knowledge can go along and play music with a senior conductor. There will be over 80 young musicians present on the day who will be able to teach pupils new tunes and demonstrate some of what they do as a marching band. The three-hour session will conclude with a free concert for parents. If you are interested in sending someone along to the day, please email: sarah@17th.org.uk
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Greg Clark
MP for Tunbridge Wells
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Greg Clark was first elected to Parliament as a representative of Tunbridge Wells in 2005. The Conservative MP has since held a number of positions in Government and currently sits as a member of the Cabinet in his capacity as Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy
Anything less than first class is unacceptable LAST Autumn, a new five-year contract was awarded to North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT) to provide mental health services to Kent’s children and young people. Given the scandalous history of this service – where children and teenagers had sometimes waited a year and a half to get an initial appointment – I told the Chief Executive of NELFT that the situation must improve. If we have a physical ailment, we expect to be seen promptly and receive whatever care is needed. This should be exactly the same for a mental health condition. I have been holding regular meetings with both NELFT and West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group (WKCCG), who manage the contract, to keep a close eye on how things are going. Whilst the overall number of complaints that I have been receiving has reduced, I am still very concerned that it is not as good as it should be. This Friday, an influential health committee is meeting at Kent County Council to discuss the performance of the Children & Young People’s Mental Health Service. I have written to its Chairman to highlight three problems which I believe require urgent attention.
Firstly, the previous two contract-holders often struggled to provide timely assessments for young people who had been referred to them. Despite asking, neither the NHS Trust nor the Commissioner is disclosing the number of people waiting for their first assessment each month and for how long they have been waiting. According to the Care Quality Commission, who monitor and regulate health and care services, such information should be readily available. If this data is missing, we have no idea whether there is a major problem – as there has been in the past – for young people being made to wait inordinately long periods of time to have their mental health needs properly assessed. My second concern is that I was told that 343 young people in the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells area have been waiting more than 18 weeks for treatment but no information was disclosed on how that total breaks down, i.e. how many people are waiting six months, or a year or more. Without this information, we do not have a clear picture. It is vitally important that young people start receiving treatment as soon as
Fran Long Secretary, Tonbridge & Malling Green Party
contact professionals for immediate advice or information. We need to have the confidence and visibility that our mental health services are working well. A year after the contract was awarded to NELFT, I do not believe that we have the evidence to provide such an assessment. I will not be satisfied until I am absolutely convinced that our children are receiving a first-rate service – anything less is unacceptable.
possible because many mental health conditions can worsen over time without it. Finally, a number of families have contacted me to complain about poor communication with NELFT. Examples include being put onto a waiting list without any indication as to how long they will be waiting, and calls not being returned. When children are going through mental illness, families are under enough strain without the added stress of not being able to
Fran Long is a retired nurse, founder member of Tonbridge Bicycle Users Group, treasurer of Tonbridge & Malling Friends of the Earth, and an active member of the Angel Community Gardeners
I AM delighted both our local MPs, Tom Tugendhat and Greg Clark, have recently written in support of cycling. All political parties now agree our roads are too congested, that our streets are polluted, and that something must be done about the poor air quality that is threatening our health and especially that of our children. Greens want to tackle air pollution by making the alternatives to car travel more appealing, by improving public transport and providing safe walking and cycling routes, so that cars are only used where really necessary. We would like to encourage community owned low emission buses like the Big Lemon Bus Company in Brighton and ensure that pricing policy works to make public transport cheaper than driving, with reliable bus services running into the evening. We would also encourage electric vehicles by providing charging points in car parks, and
encourage car sharing clubs as an alternative to expensive individual car ownership. Those readers who have been holidaying in Germany, Denmark, Netherlands and Sweden this summer will have seen the wonderful and well used cycling infrastructure these countries enjoy. When there are safe networks of traffic-free cycle routes available, people feel safe to use them. They use bicycles to get around all year, not just as a leisure pursuit in the summer holidays. They use them to commute to work, go shopping and get to school. Bikes are normal rather than sporty, and most people wear normal clothes for cycling. Our borough council is preparing a new Local Plan and we would like to see a requirement on developers to take sustainability seriously. The wording of the existing draft has phrases like ‘where practicable’ which we feel are too woolly and would allow developers a loophole to avoid putting the necessary infrastructure in place.
PHOTO: Suzannah Niklas
We can all agree our roads are too congested
We would require developers to fund segregated cycle routes to the station and town centre, so that new developments do not worsen car congestion and pollution. Air pollution in Tonbridge High Street already exceeds EU guidelines! We also support a 20mph speed limit in all residential streets to make them safer for pedestrians and cyclists. Reducing speed limits from 30mph to 20mph reduces the number of accidents by between 20 and 40 per cent. I am also a member of the non-party political group Tonbridge Bicycle Users Group [TBUG] which aims to “Make Cycling Safer in Tonbridge”, and both Kent County Council and Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council councillors have supported our events. We have also written to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council suggesting changes to the draft Local Plan that would improve cycling infrastructure. As things stand, Tonbridge has a few sections of wonderful cycle infrastructure, notably the new A21 route and the cycle path through Longmead, but we need something altogether more joinedup to form a comprehensive network of safe cycle paths throughout the town. Then people will feel safe to use them. Other countries in Europe have already achieved this and we owe it to future generations to follow their example.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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Open-plan living
In a delightful position beside Dunorlan
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THE PARK ON YOUR DOORSTEP
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Your at-a-glance guide to
CULVERDEN AVENUE TUNBRIDGE WELLS
GUIDE PRICE
£699,950
UNDER £450,000
n Kitchen/breakfast room
UNDER £500,000
MARNOCK PLACE, PEMBURY ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
n Master bedroom with en-suite shower room
DRY HILL PARK ROAD TONBRIDGE
GUIDE PRICE
n Bathroom
£410,000-£425,000 n First floor apartment in 2007 development beside Dunorlan Park n Spacious open-plan reception/ dining room with Juliet balcony enjoying view of the park
n Further double bedroom n Communal gardens n Garage with boarded roof space CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 bracketts.co.uk flyingfishproperties.co.uk
£495,000 n Renovated apartment on two floors, with period features and share of freehold n Entrance hall and cloakroom n Sitting room with feature fireplace n Second reception room
n Open-plan kitchen/dining room and utility room n Grand staircase with stunning full-height arch window n Master bedroom with en suite n 2 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Parking space and communal garden CONTACT Barnes Kingsnorth Tonbridge 01732 771616 bkestateagents.com
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great properties by price range… UNDER £600,000 ORCHARD WAY, CHERRY GARDENS HILL, GROOMBRIDGE
GUIDE PRICE
£525,000 ■ House requiring some modernisation ■ Living room with stone fireplace ■ Dining room ■ Kitchen/breakfast room with pantry ■ Gardener’s WC ■ 2 double bedrooms ■ Bedroom 3/sun lounge ■ Bathroom ■ Drive, garage, garden and outbuldings CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 bracketts.co.uk
UNDER £800,000 PARK VIEW, TRINITY CLOSE TUNBRIDGE WELLS
£750,000 ■ Superior top floor apartment ■ Views towards Dunorlan Park ■ Sitting room with balcony ■ Dining area part open to sitting room ■ Kitchen ■ Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and balcony ■ Bedroom 2 ■ Shower room ■ Undercroft garage ■ Allocated parking space CONTACT Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 woodandpilcher.co.uk
UNDER £900,000 UNDER £700,000
THE RIDINGS, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
CULVERDEN AVENUE TUNBRIDGE WELLS
GUIDE PRICE
£750,000-£775,000
GUIDE PRICE
£699,950 ■ Well presented halls-adjoining Edwardian house near St John’s Park ■ Living room with open fireplace and bay window with shutters ■ Kitchen with butler sink and Aga ■ Dining room with open fireplace ■ Conservatory, with doors to garden ■ Bedroom 1 with fireplace and shutters
■ Extended family home ■ Bedroom 2 (used as a dressing room)
■ Living Room with fireplace
■ 3 further bedrooms
■ Office , playroom and cloakroom
■ Family bathroom
■ Cloakroom
■ Shower room
■ Bedroom with en-suite shower room
■ Garden with patio and shed
■ 3 further bedrooms
CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 bracketts.co.uk
■ Kitchen/dining room and utility room
■ Family bathroom ■ Driveway, double garage and gardens CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 bracketts.co.uk
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AT A GLANCE MOUNTFIELD GARDENS TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Improved town centre house spread over three floors in conservation area beside Calverley Grounds n Front door with stained glass panel leading to hall with herringbonepatterned oak flooring n Sitting room with plantation-style shutters on sash bay window n Dining room with bifold doors to courtyard n Kitchen open to dining room, with peninsular breakfast bar n Master bedroom with fireplace, and an en-suite bathroom featuring a roll-top bath and large walk-in shower n 3 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Laundry room n Generous eaves store n Courtyard-style garden n On-street parking via residents’ permit n 350 yards from Tunbridge Wells mainline station
£850,000-£875,000
Superb refurbished townhouse just a stone’s throw from Calverley Grounds
Available for sale through Wood & Pilcher Tunbridge Wells 01892 511211 woodandpilcher.co.uk
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AT A GLANCE HAMILTON HOUSE AMHERST ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Substantial Victorian apartment with views of St John’s Church and Tunbridge Wells n Wealth of period features n Reception hall which could be used as a study n Stunning sitting/dining room with feature Victorian marble fireplace (fitted with gas fire) and large sash window giving access to a small balcony area n Newly fitted kitchen/breakfast room with glass breakfast bar n Master bedroom with feature marble fireplace and walk-in dressing room n 2 further large double bedrooms n Newly fitted bathroom n Overhead storage n Landscaped communal gardens n Communal parking n Ten-minute walk to mainline station
Victorian apartment in prime position overlooking church
OFFERS IN THE REGION OF
ÂŁ425,000 Available for sale through McAuley Miller Tunbridge Wells 01892 614 777 mcauleymiller.com
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Living life on the giant veg
– a triple world record holder tells us how it’s done Colossal cabbages and outrageous onions can be yours. Hannah Stephenson talks to David Thomas about how to go large in the garden
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rowers of giant veg nationwide will be gathering at this year’s Canna UK National Giant Vegetables Championship to show off their mammoth marrows, colossal cabbages and outsized onions in the hope of setting world records. Cornish farmer David Thomas holds three world titles for the heaviest red cabbage, the heaviest cucumber and the heaviest parsnip - and is chasing the title for the heaviest green cabbage at this year’s Malvern Autumn Show, where the championship is held. He has to harvest his giant cabbages using a very sharp saw to cut the stump and a mini digger to winch the cabbage out. He often gets his neighbours to help him. His
cabbage fills up his truck and when he grew pumpkins, he needed a trailer to transport them. Some giant veg prove pretty inedible once they reach their maximum size - the longest runner beans are stringy, weighty cucumbers go bitter and the heaviest parsnips are woody and tough. Other giant veg such as cabbage, leeks, tomatoes and onions are fine to eat. Thomas says that with the right seed and the right advice, anyone can have a go at growing giant show vegetables. “Go and speak to a top grower. Make sure they’re winning,” he suggests. “Take what you’ve grown to the show it doesn’t matter how big it is or how small it is - and you’ll get talking to people. You’ll never get criticised for having the smallest cucumber.”
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Feeding Be aware that different veg need different fertilisers. Plants grown for the fruit, such as tomatoes and pumpkins, will need fertilisers high in potassium and phosphorous, while leafy veg will need a higher nitrogen mix.
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Check sowing dates Sowing dates will depend on the veg grown. Giant greenhouse cucumbers can be sown in May, while Thomas sows his cabbages in November and overwinters them in a frost-free greenhouse to plant out in the spring. He sows pumpkin seeds on April 1.
He suggests the following guidelines to giant-veg novices:
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Choose the right seed Whichever variety of vegetable you are going to grow, you need the right genetics to grow something big, so research your seed carefully. Some can be purchased at garden centres, others are available from specialists. Thomas suggests varieties such as the mooli radish April Cross, Picador parsnips, Red Intermediate carrots and Kondor potatoes. Go to a specialist grower for onions. “For things like pumpkins, marrows and cucumbers, go to someone who’s winning and ask them for some seed,” he advises. “Some growers might be covetous but most aren’t.” There’s a lot of giant growing information available through websites such as giantveg.co. uk, growing forums and organisations like the European Giant Vegetable Growers Association (egvga.eu/).
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Give yourself plenty of space “The giant green cabbages I grow are spaced out 8ft each way,” says Thomas. “They span around 6ft which gives you a bit of space to walk around them and check them. “If you’re going to grow a decent pumpkin, you’ll need 1,000 square feet of ground. But with parsnips, carrots and onions, you don’t need so much ground. A parsnip will take around 3ft.”
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Watering regime Giant veg need to be watered regularly and are not as tolerant of sporadic watering as normal-sized veg. They need to be kept moist but not waterlogged and you need to water them deeply to get to the roots. Many growers use drip irrigation systems on a timer which compensate for rain.
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Check your soil Some grow their veg in raised beds and barrels of compost, others going for records for the longest veg such as carrots and parsnips will grow them down gutter pipes placed diagonally in the ground and some grow to around 30ft in length. “Add plenty of well rotted farmyard manure or compost to the soil before you start. A lot of people use green manure - council depots compost garden waste which you can buy to enrich your soil.” “Every soil is different,” he continues. “If you’ve a really heavy clay, the more organic matter you can add, the better.”
Prop up your veg Giant cucumbers should be grown up a single stem, taking out the sideshoots so you just have one cucumber per plant. A stake in the ground, with strong nylon string attached to a pole above, will allow for the cucumber to grow vertically. Cucumbers need to be wound around the string. Thomas supports the fruits with some fleece tied around the middle of the cucumber as it becomes heavier, attached to string which is secured vertically to a frame above. The stem itself won’t hold the weight of the cucumber. He has square steel frames to support his cabbages, which sit on top of the frame, taking the weight off the stump.
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Maintain the crops “Keep your crops weed and pest-free. Some crops, including pumpkins and marrows, don’t like too much wind if you grow them outside. They may need a windbreak around them. Some things are grown inside in tunnels, with automatic watering systems underneath them.” Malvern Autumn Show takes place on September 29-30. For details go to malvernautumn.co.uk
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Entering autumn Welcome the new season in with stylish subtle decorative changes
Wednesday September 19 | 2018 Next/PA Photo/Handout
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I
t’s ‘transition time’ in decor as well as in wardrobes - that period where summer’s still lingering and autumn’s just starting to show its colours. But just as we’re not quite ready to ditch all our light cotton clothes and embrace woolly coats, similarly we don’t want to rush our rooms into a full-on winter look until we have to. If you don’t want to let go of that sunny colour palette however, you could celebrate an ‘Indian Summer’ indoors, with embroidered, bohemian textiles and exotic accessories. On the other hand, if you want to gently move into a warmer, ward-off-the- chills look, simply switch up your accessories and treat yourself to tactile, cuddle-up textures in throws and cushions. Gabrielle Fagan shares some top tips: KEEP THE SUMMER VIBE ALIVE
DFS/PA Photo/Handout
Salsa Accent Chair, £349, DFS
Salsa Accent Chair, £349, DFS “The latest trend for global fusion, where the colours, shapes and textures from different cultures unite and clash, is a look that works well through all the seasons, with its rich, sunny colour palette,” says Philip Watkin, design director for furniture company, DFS. “For the Salsa range, we visited The Design Library in London, where an array of beautiful Indian wedding blankets immediately caught our eye. We took the traditional patterns from these blankets and reworked them with punchy, vibrant colours, to keep the look feeling authentic yet modern and lend the range an Indian and Moroccan inspired twist.”
The coloured Salsa range includes the Salsa Maxi Sofa, £849, and matching Salsa Oval Footstool, £199. dfs.co.uk
PLAY AND DISPLAY You can still enjoy the glow of thinking about happy summer times - if your memory’s jogged by a display of souvenirs collected on your travels and jaunts. Make a statement by showing them off on a display unit such as this from Next, or simply group a small collection on a side table or shelf. Ideally, change objects regularly to keep the display interesting. Following a colour or texture theme will ensure the effect is easy on the eye. Harper Tall Shelves, £550, next.co.uk
Harper Tall Shelves, £550, Next
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Interiors
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CUSHION CONFIDENTIAL Snuggle up with these soft options (From top) Sequin Faux Fur Champagne Cushion, £10; Fluffy Faux Fur Cushion, Ochre, £8; Large Cream Jumbo Cord Cushion, Cream, £10; Fluffy Faux Fur Charcoal Cushion, £8; Teddy Bear Cream Throw, £10-£20, all from Dunelm
Pom Pom Throw, Mink, £24.99, Very very.co.uk
Wild & Wolf Gentlemen’s Hardware World’s City Night Lights Illuminated Globe Lamp, £89.95, Hurn & Hurn hurnandhurn.com
Hand Woven Iron and Chindi Chair, £299, Ian Snow iansnow.com
Dunelm
5A Fifth Avenue Leopard Cushion (45x45cm) £30, Dunelm dunelm.com
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Great Days Out
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Where to go this week Pages 56-57
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GO ORGANIC
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Walk on the wild side Explore amazing Anglesey Page 70
ANGELS ON A HIGH
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Going Out
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goingout Seven days of activities at a glance
By Eileen Leahy
HOGGING THE LIMELIGHT Learn all about hedgehogs at Grosvenor and Hilbert Park
WEDNESDAY Gardening guru and Daily Telegraph columnist Helen Yemm will be hosting another Gardeners’ Question Time in aid of the cancer charity CRUK at Trinity Theatre this afternoon from 2pm. Tickets to this very popular event cost £10 per person and can be booked via trinitytheatre.net Grosvenor and Hilbert Park will be hosting a hedgehog event this afternoon. Keen young lovers of nature are encouraged to pop along to the hub in the park after school to find out more about these spiky creatures, who are just about to hibernate for the winter – lucky things! There will also be a chance to enjoy some linked crafting activities. A donation of £2 per child is welcomed.
The smash hit musical-comedy sequel Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again – starring the original cast plus Downton Abbey’s Lily James – is filling The Odeon with love and laughter, Abba-style till Tuesday. Sophie is pregnant, and not sure how she’s going to cope, but her mother’s story might give her some pointers… Book at odeon.co.uk Meanwhile, the spoof The Spy Who Dumped Me continues its run at The Hop Farm drive-in cinema at 7.45pm. The hit comedy sees two friends unwittingly become entangled in an international conspiracy when one of the women discovers the boyfriend who dumped her was a spy. Mila Kunis and Kate McKinnon star, and tickets cost £25 per vehicle from moonlightcinema.com
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
THURSDAY The latest exhibition at Trinity Theatre Gallery, which launched earlier this week and runs until Sunday, is The Forum Music and Arts Venue Celebrating 25 Years And… Essentially, it’s a visual celebration of the iconic independent live music venue’s first quarter of a century. Expect a ‘pot pourri’ of band memorabilia, artwork and testimonials from devoted Forum fans. The Australian Ballet’s Merry Widow will be beamed into the Odeon at 6.30pm. Not familiar with the story? Well, it’s a lighthearted production filled with tangled affairs, narrow misses and jealous lovers set in the lavish ballrooms of Paris. The tiny nation of Pontevedro is on the verge of bankruptcy, and the dashing Count Danilo must rescue his country by marrying the widowed and fabulously wealthy Hanna Glawari. Trouble is, he rejected her in the past. Will she forgive him? Tickets cost £20.75 to go and find out. odeon.co.uk There’s still time to enjoy Jazz on The Pantiles this month. To make it really special, why not indulge in One Warwick Park Hotel’s Bubbles and Burger deal, which costs just £10 per person? For more details, see onewarwickpark.co.uk The Goon Show is brought back to life at Trinity Theatre courtesy of a live recording which celebrates the legendary radio comedy show, which starred very young comics Spike Milligan, Harry Secombe, Peter Sellers and Michael Bentine before they went on to even greater things. The fun starts at 8pm and tickets cost £19.
FRIDAY
There will be an astronomy evening at Bore Place tonight
QUESTION TIME Helen Yemm at Trinity
from 7pm until 9pm. Join the Edenbridge and District Astronomers for an evening looking at the night sky. The team will talk you through the observations and give hints and tips about other key astronomical objects or events you can look out for over the coming months. Tickets cost £8 per adult and £6 per child from boreplace.org As part of the Music at Malling event, there will be an organ recital performed by international organ soloist Rupert Jeffcoat at St Augustine’s Chapel in Tonbridge School from 1pm. He will perform pieces by Debussy, Elgar, Fauré, Bach and Weir. Tickets cost £10 and under-25s go free. See emtheatre.com Meanwhile, back over at Trinity, entertainment of a different kind can be had as the theatre welcomes talented magician and comedian Pete Firman and his latest hit show Marvels. Tickets cost £19 and the show kicks off at 8pm. See trinitytheatre.net
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
MORE FUN IN THE SUN: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again – all week at The Odeon
SATURDAY Whether you want to get fitter, or are in training for a 5k or 10K or even a
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk marathon, then taking part in the area’s weekly parkruns is a great way to either start your running routine or keep it topped up. Dunorlan Park, Bedgebury and Tonbridge are just a few of the places that host them every Saturday morning at 9am. For further information, visit www.parkrun.org.uk It’s the second annual Tunbridge Wells Food Month, so what better time to head to the Farmers’ Market outside the Town Hall, or to check out one of the numerous pop-up events happening around town? See tunbridgewellstogether.co.uk Also happening all weekend will be the annual Hever Triathlon, so if you’d like to pop along and show your support to all those keen runners, wild water swimmers and cyclists, then you can find further details about tickets and timings at hevercastle.co.uk. Over at Smallhythe Place near Tenterden this evening, there will be a performance JUST GOONING AROUND Relive the revolutionary comedy show at Trinity
of a play entitled When the Cat’s Away. Tickets cost £14. For further details of this production, which focuses on the plight of the suffragettes 100 years ago, see nationaltrust.org/smallhytheplace
SUNDAY
It’s the Hospice in the Weald 10K run today, and you can help this amazing charity not just by taking part, but in plenty of other ways, too – from cake sales to volunteering in their charity shops. See hospiceintheweald.co.uk Scotney Castle is hosting a Hops and Harvest tour every weekend throughout September, so if you haven’t yet been down to see the hop gardens, hop farm and microbrewery, then what are you waiting for? Further information on entrance price and timings can be found at nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle The hugely popular rock ’n’ roll tribute production That’ll Be The Day is on tonight at The Assembly Hall, so if you love the sounds of the 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, make sure you book your tickets to see this live performance in full swing. The performers and their dance routines are bound to have you rocking in the aisles. Tickets cost £26 per person and the show starts at 7.30pm. Book at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk The Odeon, meanwhile, will be screening Postcards from the 48% – a film by writer/director David Wilkinson featuring those who voted Remain in the UK’s EU Referendum. His documentary aims to show the other 27 EU member states that the vote to Leave was far from a landslide victory, and just why many are fighting to stay part of the EU. The screening is at 6pm and tickets cost £10.
MONDAY
Go Ape at Bedgebury is the perfect fitness activity for those who want to
Going Out
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PICK OF THE WEEK: The Big Brocante The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood
Friday, September 21 to Sunday, September 23 Gates open from 8am-4pm
Calling all home design, collectables and vintage enthusiasts – The Hop Farm is the place to go this weekend as it’s hosting The Big Brocante from Friday to Sunday. Visitors will have ample opportunities to browse a vast array of fantastic products to give their home that unique edge. Tickets cost from as little as £5 per person, and there are also some early-bird deals to be had. See bigbrocante.co.uk keep trim and seek a few treetop thrills amid the heights of the native Scots Pines, too. Visit goape.co.uk Members from the south east Contemporary Glass Society, which includes many artists from the local area, have recently launched a major exhibition at the Maidstone Museum which will run until November 10. For more information, see facebook.com/cgssoutheast
TUESDAY
Green Street Blues ladies a capella chorus offer a warm welcome whatever your level of experience or musical knowledge. They rehearse their sassy mix of modern, show tunes and pop in glorious four-part harmony every Tuesday from 7.45pm to 10.15pm at The Drive Methodist Church, Sevenoaks. For more details, visit greenstreetblues.org
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Going Out
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
The Fontanas
The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7. Websites pdag.co.uk & thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Xavier Ralph, Gronk, Charlie Rivers, The Frampton Sisters Friday Soul Kitchen Saturday Lipstick & Beatniks Sunday Paul Crisp, Elo Quitmann, Jon Grayson, Infrared
THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM The Common Event information at twforum.co.uk Wednesday The Stable: Civil Villains, Jesus Fix, Pre Med, The Ethereal & I Friday Oaysis: A tribute to Oasis Saturday Boogie Nights
live music With Paul Dunton
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ONIGHT [Wednesday], The Stable returns for another rocking night at The Forum with Civil Villains, Jesus Fix, Pre Med and The Ethereal & I and you can catch Xavier Ralph, Gronk, Charlie Rivers and The Frampton Sisters at The Grey Lady. On Thursday night, The Fontanas take to the stage at Jazz on The Pantiles, Re-Take That and Party are at The Assembly Hall, and The Sussex Arms basement hosts Temple of Mars, The Escape Artist and Traps. On Saturday night, you can catch
The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… paulduntonandguests.com
Lipstick & Beatniks at The Grey Lady, Ex Cathedra at The Assembly Hall, Woodface at The Beau Nash Tavern and the Local & Live Sessions at Trinity Theatre, featuring headliner Luke Jackson with support from Paul Prem Namanda and The Ackerleys. And the ever popular Boogie Nights return to The Forum offering a great chance to don the dancing shoes! Looking ahead to next Tuesday night, The Lowly Strung will be at The Punch & Judy pub in Tonbridge and for blues fans, The Robin Bibi Band return to The Toad Rock Retreat in Rusthall.
THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Crescent Road All show details and tickets available at assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Thursday Re-Take That and Party Saturday Ex Cathedra: In 40 Parts Sunday That’ll Be The Day
THE SUSSEX ARMS BASEMENT
Sussex Mews All show details and tickets available at twforum.co.uk Thursday Temple of Mars, The Escape Artist, Traps Sunday Insolvency, The Ackerleys Four Days in June
JAZZ ON THE PANTILES The Bandstand Music from 8pm-10pm (donations welcomed) Thursday The Fontanas
CASSIDY’S BAR Castle Street Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Thursday Open Jam Session
TRINITY THEATRE Church Road All show details and tickets available at trinitytheatre.net
Saturday Local & Live Sessions: Luke Jackson, Paul Prem Nadama, The Ackerleys
THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Woodface
THE DUKE OF YORK PUB The Pantiles Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Monday Open Mic Night
THE TOAD ROCK RETREAT Upper Street, Rusthall Open all day, free entry Music from 7pm Tuesday The Robin Bibi Band
THE PUNCH & JUDY PUB 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday The Lowly Strung
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Books
The Incendiaries by R.O. Kwon
Autumn reads… Time to unwind and relax, and what better way than with a great book? Here are a few suggestions for your reading…
Lake Success by Gary Shteyngart Published in hardback by Hamish Hamilton, priced £16.99 (ebook £9.99)
10/10
The new novel from Gary Shteyngart, bestselling author of Super Sad True Love Story, is a brilliant blend of pathos and satire, political insight and belly laughs. It tells the story of Barry, a hedge-fund 1%-er with a beautiful wife, Seema, a retinue of staff, a palatial condo in Manhattan (among other homes), and a watch collection worth seven figures. But his fund is down hundreds of millions, he’s days away from an indictment for crude mis-selling, and at home he has a severely autistic son that neither he nor his wife - despite all their expensive therapies and specialists - have any idea how to deal with. Things kick off with Barry walking out on his gilded life. Chapters alternate between soon-to-be-ex-husband and wife, as Seema takes up with a novelist, and Barry goes in search of a purer, more authentic life (which he associates with his college sweetheart Layla). Seema’s struggles raising a child with special needs are portrayed with great insight and compassion, while the arc of the story follows Trump’s unexpected ascendancy, which lends the book an acute social conscience. In case that all sounds a bit worthy, you should know this is also a very funny book; sometimes satirical, sometimes dialogue-driven, sometimes more poignant. And most of it centres on Barry, at once the heart and the hole around which the whole book builds. There is a generosity to his narcissism that, like Lake Success itself, is very hard not to love. (Review by Dan Brotzel)
Published in hardback by Virago, priced £14.99 (ebook £7.99)
This slim novel tells the story of a unusual love triangle in which faith, loss and obsession all play their part. At an Ivy-clad American university, Phoebe - a beautiful, glamorous socialite who accidentally killed her own mother in a car crash - meets and romances Will, a driven, out-of-place scholarship boy with family traumas of his own. He’s escaped Bible college and the clutches of evangelical fundamentalism and now waits on tables, all the while lying to his new friends about his impoverished background. Will’s love for Phoebe is both watchful and ecstatic. Phoebe, as far as she can, seems to love Will too. But she’s drawn into a religious sect led by the barefooted and darkly charismatic John Neale. Both she and John are of Korean descent, and the sect has links to North Korea and somehow also to Phoebe’s family. Somehow Neale’s sect, with its group confessions and alarming physical chastisements, appeals to Phoebe, while Will, who has escaped one fanaticism, must now try to rescue Phoebe from another, then she disappears... This is a brilliantly written book. The prose is sparse and yet wonderfully expressive. The gradual filling in of layers of motivation and character build a drama and suspense all of their own, and what starts out as an absorbing psychological study keeps you guessing right to the end. (Review by Dan Brotzel)
8/10
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Varina by Charles Frazier
Published in hardback by Sceptre, priced £20 (ebook £13.99) Charles Frazier is best known for his first book Cold Mountain, published in 1997. Varina is his fourth novel, and is similarly set around the American Civil War. It is a fictionalised account of Varina Howell Davis’ life - the second wife of Jefferson Davis, the only President of the Confederate States. An old Varina tells the story of her life to James Blake, a middle-aged black man who she adopted but was separated from when he was a child. The narrative is sweeping and Frazier has a beautiful style of writing, tracking Varina’s childhood and marriage to Davis, to fleeing the Union soldiers chasing her as the country came to reckoning. However, the book begs the question: Do we really need a novel from the perspective of a Southern white woman during the Civil War? Varina is fallible, but it ultimately feels like Frazier wants you to like her - she’s painted as a brave woman who deep down knew that slavery was wrong. Even though Blake is ostensibly there as a moral guide, in the grand scheme of the book, black voices aren’t really featured, which strikes an off note. (Review by Prudence Wade)
5/10
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Play us a song, you’re the Piano Man… Talented tribute musician Elio Pace, who has performed with such stars as Queen’s Brian May, brings his pitch-perfect Billy Joel Songbook to Trinity Theatre next week. Ahead of his appearance on September 28, The Times finds out more about this singer and pianist to fulfill a lifetime ambition of creating a theatre show which showcased the wonderful songbook of the six-time Grammy awardwinner. And so, ‘The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace and his band’ was born.
MY LIFE Elio and his band have ‘such fun’ performing
What is it about Billy Joel’s music that makes him such a universal and timeless hit? The thing for me which sets him apart from everyone else in the history of rock and roll is the eclectic variety and range of colour in his music. He has an encyclopaedic knowledge and understanding of all things music and history, and the musical ability to ‘sculpt’ in any genre he chooses to the highest quality. On top of this, he’s an amazing vocalist and lyricist. In my opinion, he is the most overqualified rock star of all time.
How would you describe an evening spent listening to The Billy Joel Songbook? Two and a half hours of an enthralling journey of fantastic live music with a few fascinating anecdotes about Billy Joel scattered in between. The band and I have such fun performing these songs and our passion for incredible
live music spills over to the audience. They will all have a great night, I’m sure!
sing-song around the piano when we have family get togethers.
Did you grow up in a musical household? Yes, my mother and father are both very musical, as are my two sisters. There was always music in our house growing up. We still often have a
When did your appreciation for Billy Joel begin, and how did this show originate? I liked a lot of Billy Joel’s music, but I truly fell in with love with his genius songwriting and musicality when I
heard This Night from the album An Innocent Man back in the mid-1980s. Then in 2013, and again in 2014, I was invited to ‘fill Billy Joel’s shoes’, starring in five very special reunion concerts in the USA with Joel’s original 1971-1972 touring band, recreating the historic Sigma Sounds live recordings. This incredible honour inspired me
Do you know any interesting facts about Billy Joel that would surprise us? Billy Joel never wanted to be a rock or pop star. He loved classical music – still does – and all he ever wanted to be was a classical composer. In 2001, he released an album of his own classical compositions entitled ‘Fantasies and Delusions’. The pieces were composed by Billy Joel but performed by a classical pianist called Richard Joo. Is there a song of his that resonates with you more than the others? Since becoming a father in 2009, I love and have a new appreciation for the song ‘Lullaby (Goodnight, my Angel)’. Billy Joel wrote this for his
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
THE REAL DEAL Billy Joel
then seven-year-old daughter, and it strikes a chord with me like it never did before my daughter came along. You’ve performed with a number of impressive names, such as Brian May, and at Sandra Bullock’s 30th birthday. What are some of the career highlights that stand out for you? I have been so blessed with my music career, I really have had the pleasure of working with so many amazing artists. I appeared live on air to millions every Sunday morning as the featured artist on BBC Radio 2’s Weekend Wogan throughout 2010 and this was a career highlight for me. I musically directed and performed with some great artists on the show week afer
week. I also got to perform my own songs and choice of covers with my magnificent band. If you were to meet Billy, what would you want to say to him, or ask him? I would just love to sit and chat to him about music in general, and of course have a jam session with him at the piano, that would be awesome! What is the best part about touring with this show? Performing this incredible songbook with my absolutely awesome six-piece band and seeing the audience loving it!
You have some very well-known admirers. So how does it feel to have the likes of Alfie Boe, Lulu and Huey Lewis – among others – praise your work? It really is humbling to be appreciated by these amazing people, who have said some lovely things about me, a very good feeling indeed. What advice would you give to any young performers who are looking to make a career out of their music? Work hard, get as much experience as possible doing lots of gigging… and just enjoy it!
Elio Pace and his live band perform the Billy Joel Songbook at 7.30pm on Friday, September 28 at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. Tickets cost £24.50 per person and there are concessions. For more information, see trinitytheatre.net
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Wednesday September 19 | 2018
The perfect recipe for going organic Ahead of this weekend’s Royal Tunbridge Wells Food and Drink Festival in Calverley Grounds, Eileen Leahy talks to co-organiser Steve Wood about the highlights visitors can enjoy and finds out more about another key event in the foodies’ calendar – Organic September… ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR
BOX OF DELIGHTS A typical Riverford Organic veggie box
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HIS month saw the return of Organic September, an initiative of the Soil Association to encourage the whole nation to try organic. And with the second free Royal Tunbridge Wells Food and Drink Festival happening this weekend in Calverley Grounds, where there will be Riverford Organic – the country’s pioneering farm to fork producers – selling their wares, we thought it was time we discovered more about the festival and why going organic is so important. Throughout this month, shops, farms and producers all over the UK have been inviting people to join them and experience what it means to be organic. There have been demos on how easy it is to shop and cook with organic ingredients, and this coming Saturday and Sunday you’ll have the chance to see for yourself thanks to the plethora of producers – 75 – who’ll be at the festival.
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“We’re really looking forward to welcoming everybody,” says one of the event’s organisers, Steve Wood, who is also behind Tonbridge Farmers’ Market, the proud winners of the prestigious 2017 Taste of Kent Award for being Kent Farmers’ Market of the Year. “We have a cookery theatre where there’ll be demos from the likes of Thackeray’s Patrick Hill, The Lemon Grove’s Bruce McMichael and BBC Radio Kent’s Hilary Steel, as well as a fun area for children and also lots of taster menus where people can pay £4 or less for a dish and sample as they wander around.” Given that it’s Organic September, Steve is pleased that one of the country’s first and most successful chemical and preservative-free producers, Riverford, will also be present. “They were the first to do the whole farm to fork enterprise, and are organic farmers as well
There will be plenty of local foodie favourites participating in this weekend’s Tunbridge Wells food festival, including Fine Grind coffee, The Lemon Grove, Marlowe’s burgers, Treat Me Nice health products and Jo Go Bakes alongside Fuggles, The George, The Hotel du Vin and Saint John’s Yard. There will also be lots to see and do, including these highlights: COOKERY THEATRE Live demos over both days from popular local chefs, writers and producers, including Rosemary Phillips, Jo Banks and Bruce McMichael. There will also be a Cake Off on Saturday and Sunday – Tunbridge Wells’s answer to the Great British Bake Off! STREET FOOD CAFÉ Try food from one of the many stalls selling delicious homemade food from all corners of the globe, including Asia, Europe and the New World. There will be a cap of £4 on every meal to create a taster menu with smaller portions. LOCAL PRODUCERS & RESTAURANTS With over 30 local brewers present, plus representatives from some of the town’s most popular bars and eateries, there will be something for everyone to savour. CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA Based around the Alive with Flavour Hands On area, little ones will be able to try their hand at sugar crafting as well as having some fun with food and amusing themselves on the Drawing Wall.
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as producers, so we are very happy they will be at the food festival.” Organic September, and the month-long celebration of all things food here in Tunbridge Wells, have both been perfectly timed as it’s the harvest, and therefore a brilliant time to savour some of the best Britain, and indeed our local area, has to offer. Everyday fruit and vegetables are now coming into season, such as apples, blackberries, pears and plums, alongside beetroots, carrots, field mushrooms, kale, leeks, lettuce, potatoes, pumpkins and squashes, sweetcorn, tomatoes and watercress. However, it is not only fruit and vegetables that are organic, it’s the full shopping basket. This year alone, over 1,000 new products were certified by Soil Association Certification, including Adobe Malbec reserve 2017, Asda British cheddar, Clipper Fair Trade decaffeinated tea, Booja Booja Honeycomb caramel truffles, Jelley’s elderflower vodka and The Authentic Bread Company’s mini Earl Grey hot cross buns.
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INGREDIENTS serves 4 ■ 3 medium beetroots, peeled and cut into wedges ■ 2 pak choi or any greens, trimmed and cut in two ■ 1 clove garlic, peeled and sliced ■ 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted ■ 200g full fat yogurt, strained the day before to make labneh ■ Pinch or two of cumin, toasted ■ Olive oil ■ Lemon, zested and squeezed
METHOD pre-heat the oven to 200°C
Traceable Organic has a fully traceable supply chain right back to the farm. It’s inspected at every stage of the process, meaning you really can know what’s in your food and how it has been produced. Clare McDermott of Soil Association Certification, the UK’s leading organic certification body, says: “Simply put, organic is food as it should be, it’s fully traceable and available nationwide. “This September we want to encourage small changes which can make a huge difference. Choosing organic means helping to protect our vital wildlife and reducing your exposure to potentially harmful pesticides and chemicals. “Demand for more organic food means more organic farms. More organic farms mean more wildlife and more animals raised to the highest welfare standards.”
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ROAST BEETROOT, GREENS, LABNEH AND CUMIN
Having Soil Association accreditation means that whenever you see the organic symbol on a product you can be sure what you buy has been produced to the very highest standards. It means fewer pesticides, no artificial additives or preservatives, the highest standards of animal welfare, and no GM ingredients.
1 RECIPE BY TOM HUNT, COURTESY OF SOIL ASSOCIATION
Calverley Grounds
Food & Drink
First roast the beetroot in the oven. Toss the wedges in olive oil, salt and pepper, cover with foil and pop in the oven. After half an hour, remove the foil to allow them to take on a little colour. After another 20 minutes or so, the beetroot should be soft. Allow to cool. Sear the pak choi in a wok or frying pan for just a minute, then add the garlic, a squeeze of lemon and a little seasoning. Remove from the heat. Season the labneh with a squeeze of lemon, a teaspoon of lemon zest, olive oil, salt, pepper and a little cumin, adjusting to taste. Combine the beetroot and pak choi, add the rest of the lemon zest and adjust the seasoning. Spoon on to a serving plate. Place spoonfuls of labneh amongst the beetroot. To finish, sprinkle sesame seeds and cumin over the top.
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4 TRY THIS AT HOME For the root of organic goodness
This dish is delicious as part of a meze or served simply with a green salad.
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Cevichede Camaron Empanada de Carne Lomo Saltado
Cariucho de pollo
Churros con Azucar
Timbale de Berengenas
Linguine de Mar Chorizo Argentino
Torta de Chocolate
On The Menu…
Bife Ancho
GALÁPAGOS The Old Vine, Cousley Wood, Nr Wadhurst TN5 6ER Tel: 01892 782 271 • Web: galapagos-restaurant.co.uk
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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CODEWORD 4
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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.
2 8
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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
26 21
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Codeword:
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.
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DIFFICULTY RATING:★★✩✩
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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS
SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU
DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★✩
CLASSIFIEDS
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Puzzles
In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply. Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.
Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue
D E M E S N W A I A B R A M R X P F B I S T S O R OM A N Y A I NQ U I R N U B L A T A N O R S WA K E S
E S A G L O L I P S W I J T A R G A Z H V I V I S N N I E S S T T T T E X A E A L R I D D L
E S A C H A E R A E N ON O M S E E D
Sudoku:
8 9 2 4 3 1 7 5 6
4 3 7 6 2 5 1 9 8
6 1 5 7 9 8 3 4 2
7 6 4 2 1 3 5 8 9
1 5 8 9 4 7 6 2 3
9 2 3 8 5 6 4 1 7
2 7 6 1 8 4 9 3 5
6 2 7 9 8 5 3 4 1
3 1 5 6 4 8 9 7 2
8 9 2 5 3 4 7 1 6
5 8 1 3 6 9 2 7 4
3 4 9 5 7 2 8 6 1
Jigsaw Sudoku:
1 8 6 4 9 3 5 2 7
2 7 3 1 5 9 8 6 4
9 5 4 2 7 6 1 3 8
7 4 8 3 2 1 6 9 5
5 3 1 7 6 2 4 8 9
4 6 9 8 1 7 2 5 3
© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles
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THE DELIGHTS ON OUR DOORSTEP A stunning sunset at Llanddwyn Island on the Anglesey coast in North Wales
Travel
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Dreams, destinations
and fun decisions...
H
OW do you choose that allimportant next holiday? Do you stick a pin in a map or do you have a list of dream destinations to work through? And are you inclined to fly by the seat of your pants to see where the wind takes you, or are you the kind of person to plan, plan, plan down to the last detail? This is one of the delights of travelling – no matter what type of holidaymaker you are, there will always be some elements of surprise. And while the internet has seemingly endless information, there are points of view and travelling tips that could prove misleading. This is where a good travel agent proves invaluable – a consolidator of personal experience, feedback and knowledge who can help you create a bespoke travel package that is protected and tested and will meet all your expectations. Travel agents are miners, drilling through a list of wants and needs to help you narrow down your travel choices, then the really enjoyable bit is down to you – picking a trip! To help you decide on your next adventure, here is a list of popular holiday types that may give you some inspiration…
FAMILY ESCAPES Even though the children have just gone back to school, it is certainly worth thinking about school holiday travel as early as possible. If you are not fortunate enough to have a school that dodges peak
‘Travel agents are miners – drilling through a list of wants and needs to help you narrow down your travel choices – then the really enjoyable bit is down to you’ times with the clever use of inset days, then prices can increase quickly as flights and accommodation get snapped up. All-inclusive resorts with entertainment and watersports are great to keep young ones occupied, but tours geared to families are very educational, too! And don’t forget that you do not have to
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk TEMPTING TREK Riding to a sandy Polish beach by the Baltic Sea
Travel
interests can be factored into your destinations if you opt for a holiday that offers tours with knowledgeable guides and local experts. SPECIAL OCCASION CELEBRATIONS If you have a landmark occasion coming up, look to a holiday that will be really memorable. Informing your travel agent of the reason for your holiday can ensure they will go the extra mile to make it super special. WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS Overseas weddings are increasing in popularity, and whether you choose Vegas or a deserted beachfront, they could save you money because you will simply choose the things – and the
go overseas for a family break – there are plenty of resorts, lodges, cottages and castles across the British Isles that can amuse all ages. WINTER FUN Now is the time to plan your winter getaways. Snowboard and ski breaks are as popular as ever, and even if you are not an energetic soul, there is always the fun of the aprés ski! Scandinavia offers snow breaks for young and old, and it’s not all just about visiting Father Christmas – there are also ice hotels and husky rides and the Northern lights to stare at in wonder. A SENSE OF ADVENTURE As to adventure, why not take your hobby on holiday? Trekking, sailing, zip-lining, kayaking, horse riding, cycling… there are a multitude of activity specialists that can guide you through the
most incredible scenery while doing something you really love to do with people who love it, too. These trips are tailored to suit different energy levels and everything is provided, so why not get out there and make some incredible memories? SIT BACK AND RELAX Some might say that any break from normality is relaxing and good for the mind, body and soul, but there are places you can go to take relaxing to the delightful extreme. Cleanse the spirit, or revitalise the body on themed spa and wellness breaks, or pick a resort where you can get a daily massage after your morning yoga and before your nutritious lunch, before settling with a book in an idyllic setting. CULTURE VULTURES History, philosophy, art, architecture – your
LEGENDARY TRAIN RIDE The Venice Simplon Orient Express at Ruse in Bulgaria
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people – that truly matter on your big day. Equally, honeymoons mark the beginning of the rest of your lives together, and there are so many wonderful places to go to start that joint life path. ONCE IN A LIFETIME Sunset at Uluru, Sunrise at Machu Picchu, dining on the Orient Express, flying over the Grand Canyon, whale watching in Alaska, climbing the Great Wall of China, Safaris in Kenya – we all have our list of travel ambitions and you deserve the chance to tick them off. What is on your list? TRAVELLING SOLO More and more people are choosing to take off on an adventure by themselves, enjoying the freedom of travelling solo, which can also boost confidence. But if you are a little wary of stepping out alone, and do not have a companion to travel with, there are many great companies that can offer a holiday experience with like-minded travellers and none of those single supplements! So don’t resign your passport to the drawer just yet, ask your local travel agent for details. THE WORLD AT YOUR FEET With all these ideas and a big world to explore, hopefully you will now be well on your way to choosing your next holiday, but if you need to talk to some of the best and most experienced travel people in the area – for free – why not come along to the #HolidayInspirations Show at Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells this Sunday [September 23]? Representatives of local award-winning travel company Baldwins Travel Group will be on hand, with over 40 travel and cruise operators, from 10am to 3pm to talk to you. Entry is free, as is car parking, and registering your attendance in advance will also enter you into a draw to win a holiday for two to Antigua. Now that really is a dream destination! For more details, please visit baldwinstravel.co.uk/holidayinspirationsshow
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Motoring News Aston Martin confirms new UK plant for its electric cars ASTON MARTIN has announced its new centre for electrification will remain in the UK, housing production of its electric vehicles in the future. Set to open next year, and still under construction at a former RAF base in Wales, the plant will build the first Aston EV – the Rapide E. This will kick off a range of battery-powered machinery to come from the firm, with the DBX crossover to follow shortly after. Vehicles from the British luxury firm’s Lagonda subsidiary will also be built at the new plant, which is in St Athan. The Lagonda is set to become the ‘world’s first luxury marque driven exclusively driven by zeroemission powertrain technology’. The first car under the revitalised brand will arrive in 2021 and is likely
to take inspiration from the Lagonda Vision Concept revealed at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. The firm’s President and Group Chief Executive, Andy Palmer, said: “Aston Martin sees itself as a future leader in the development of zeroemission technologies. “The Rapide E will spearhead development of Aston Martin’s low and zero-emission vehicle strategy. “With the reintroduction of the Lagonda brand, this is a demonstration of how electrification features prominently in our business plan.” International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said the move ‘will create hundreds of high-skilled jobs’, adding. “This investment is yet another vote of confidence in the highly competitive automotive industry.”
This hatch gets hotter for 2019 ABARTH has revealed a refreshed 595 range for the 2019 model year, bringing new colours and an upgraded exhaust system to the hot hatch. The Italian machine is available in hatchback or convertible form, with four trim levels – Trofeo, Turismo and Competizione will be for sale on top of the standard 595 model. It’s the Trofeo and Competizione that benefit from the most eye-catching of the new colour editions, with each model available in Adrenaline Green. Meanwhile, Asphalt Grey joins the Turismo palette. Trofeo and Competizione variants also get a new Record Monza active exhaust system. Just press the ‘Sport’ button in the cockpit for a ‘deeper and bolder’ engine note.
The 1.4-litre turbocharged engine in all variants has also been updated to meet Euro 6D-Temp regulations, and is mated to a fivespeed manual gearbox as standard, with a sequential option. Power output is 138bhp in base models, 158bhp for the Turismo, 163bhp in the Trofeo and 177bhp for the range-topping Competizione. All models get a five-inch touchscreen with DAB and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Uconnect Live services as standard – bar the Turismo, which has a seven-inch system with navigation. Prices start from £15,980, with the range-topping 595C Competizione variants costing £24,630, and they are available to order now.
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
Ford teases view of Mustang-inspired electric crossover FORD has released a teaser image of an all-electric crossover inspired by the firm’s most iconic car. The SUV, about which very little information has been released, will take design cues from the Mustang muscle car. Clear to see in the image [below] are bar tail lights reminiscent of those on the Mustang, along with a fastback-esque roofline. And it’s set to be the first car from the company to be designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle. The manufacturer has now set up Ford Team Edison, a dedicated department for developing electric vehicles. The department’s Global Product Development Director, Darren Palmer, said: “You’d think after 28 years of working for the same company that nothing would surprise me, but earlier this year I received a call that would challenge everything I thought I knew about Ford and our future. “I was asked to lead product development for a brand new team – Ford Team Edison.” Ford is targeting a range of 300 miles for the electric crossover, which is set for a 2020 arrival. The firm also plans to develop 16 fullyelectric vehicles as part of an $11billion (circa. £8.5billion) investment.
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Recruitment
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
WITH THE
FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST-READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE
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Read keeps Angels flying high Brightlingsea Regent 0 Tonbridge Angels 2
JUMP FOR JOY Tonbridge celebrate Jared Small’s goal
By James Rowe
minute. With the Angels backline breached, a shot was on its way towards an unguarded net but Arthur Lee headed it dramatically off the line. A Regent corner produced a header that forced a smart save from Henly down at his near post. After resisting that spell of pressure, Tonbridge saw the rest of the half out in relative comfort. In the 89th minute a through ball from Turner to substitute Jared Small saw the winger cut inside
Rusthall shoot themselves in the foot to hand Wells victory
and unleash an unstoppable shot from 25 yards which even Bradbrook could not stop. McKimm attributed the team’s success to ‘hard work, togetherness and desire’, adding: “The boys are on a run at the moment, they’re thriving on it and enjoying it. Long may it continue.” The Angels will look to consolidate their lead at Potters Bar Town on Saturday [September 22, kick-off 3pm].
By Dean Jacquin
Guildford City 0 Rusthall 2
PHOTO: Dean Jacquin
Rusthall 1 Tunbridge Wells 3
Cornish keeps Rustics in with a chance for Vase
FOOTBALL: LOCAL bragging rights went the way of Tunbridge Wells, who grabbed their first points of the season in the Southern Counties East League Premier Division after Rusthall conceded two own-goals. The home side shaded possession without really penetrating in the early exchanges, while Wells were looking to break quickly. Jake Cornish was deputising in goal after Callum Christie picked up a hand injury, and he received a yellow card within two minutes for a rash tackle on former Rusthall favourite Danny Powell. From a corner Robbie Bissett forced the ball home from close range to make it 1-0, giving the hosts a platform to build upon. But Wells found an equaliser before the break. A free kick saw a long ball launched into the area, and Luke Stratford steered it into his own net. In the second half Wells took the initiative with the introduction of pacy striker Jeremy TudorPole. His first shot was saved by Cornish but this time Bissett put the ball in his own net. Then Tudor-Pole went on a mazy run from distance and was unopposed as he slotted the
HIGH HOPES: Rusthall skipper Joe Fuller (left) waits for a long ball with Wells’ Alex Kendall ball home to seal victory in the 81st minute. Rusthall now travel to Beckenham Town for a Friday night encounter [September 21, kick-off 7.45pm].
Reid sets course record to mark 20th birthday of Eridge 10 race ATHLETICS: THE Eridge 10 Trail Challenge, widely seen as one of the most popular races in the country, celebrated its 20th anniversary. The route is traffic-free and the views are captivating for this rare opportunity to run through the mostly private Eridge Park estate. Lucy Reid from Tonbridge Athletic Club set a course record with a time of 1hr 7min 4sec. In doing so, she became the first woman to win the race outright – and the first to complete the event in less than 70 minutes. The second athlete to cross the line was female
Walker makes instant impact but Margate are too strong Tonbridge Angels Ladies 1 Margate 3
PHOTO: David Couldridge
FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS manager Steve McKimm says his team have hit a rich vein of form after they went six points clear at the top of the Bostik League Premier. They have yet to concede a goal on their travels this season. Alongside this ironclad defence they have a creative midfield and potent strike force. Every member of the side appears to understand his role within the 4-4-1-1 formation that McKimm wants to deploy. Tonbridge looked in complete control once they had got their noses in front – even though the margin was only one goal until the very end. There was a moment of concern in the 25th minute when Matt Baxter beat the offside trap but his shot brought a fine save from Jonny Henly. Chances fell to Adem Ramadan, Tommy Whitnell and Joe Turner in the opening half-hour before the visitors went ahead in the 34th minute. Jack Parter fed Turner wide on the left and he cut past two defenders before executing a superb pass to Alex Read. The in-form striker placed the ball smartly past goalkeeper James Bradbrook. Chances continued to fall to the visitors in the first half but Bradbrook kept making good saves to keep Brightlingsea in the contest at half-time. Brightlingsea’s best moment came in the 52nd
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
too, Tonbridge’s Nicole Taylor also ducking under the 70-minute mark to take the runner-up spot in 1:08.47. Billy Hobbs representing local club Tunbridge Wells Harriers, won the men’s race in 1:09.54 with the club chairman Andy Howey (1:10.12) in second place to secure the team prize. The team prizes duly went to Tonbridge for the ladies and the Harriers for the men. Race Director Dave Hadaway once again ensured the 20th edition of the race was a great success with his dedication, hard work and enthusiasm.
FOOTBALL: RUSTHALL’S defence kept out their hosts at Wey Court before going on to record an impressive victory in the FA Vase. As early as the first minute, a home effort was deflected just past the post by Jake Cornish. The stand-in keeper made a succession of flying saves, and reacted brilliantly to stop a deflection from a defender looping into the net for what would have been another own goal. There was a sense that Guildford would be made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal. At the end of the first half Rusthall had two golden opportunities, Bobby Webbe blocking at the back post before Robbie Bissett struck a penalty wide of the goal. In the second half Rusthall enjoyed far more of the ball. They threatened from a succession of corners and were dominating the aerial duals. As the game entered the last 10 minutes, Callum Ridley fired in a low ball from the right and Joe Fuller was on hand to side-foot home. Two minutes later, in an almost exact repeat of the first goal, it was Ridley’s turn to convert another low cross.
LEADING LADY Lucy Reid romps home ahead of the men
FOOTBALL: THE Kent Women’s Cup match gave Tonbridge Angels Ladies a chance to give returning players much-needed game time. Ten changes were made from the the side that recorded its first league win against Anchorians, with only goalkeeper Sam Wright being retained. Among the newcomers, Poppy Gilden was welcomed back for her first competitive start since 2016 following a knee operation. The visitors looked the more comfortable of the two sides in the opening stages. But the Angels soon started creating chances of their own. Sixteen-year-old Sara Walker, making her first start for Tonbridge, saw her shot well blocked by goalkeeper Lauren Watson. Margate hit the woodwork twice in the first half but the home defence held firm to reach the interval with the score at 0-0. Within five minutes of the restart, however, Margate were two ahead. After 47 minutes Harriet Woolston pounced on a defensive mix-up to give her side the lead.
Changes Then three minutes later, Woolston scored again, with an easy finish from close range after good work down the right. Angels made immediate changes but Lucy Paris fired a free kick into the top corner to make it 3-0 on the hour. Midway through the half, the Angels reduced the deficit to provide a glimmer of hope. A good ball behind the defence from Gilden was met by Walker, who chipped the ball over Watson for her first goal for the club. Tonbridge continued to press for a second goal which would have put the visitors under pressure, but the Margate defence held firm. Manager Dan Couldridge said: “Obviously we hoped to win today but it was still a very productive day for us despite the result. “Poppy reminded us all how good she is with a Player of the Match performance, and Sara is a natural finisher already and I’m delighted she capped her debut with a goal.” Tonbridge Angels Ladies now return to league action when they visit Glebe on Sunday [September 23, kick-off 2pm].
Wednesday September 19 | 2018
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Dylan dazzles in first tournament after coaching from the experts… By Andy Tong SNOOKER: LOCAL snooker prodigy Dylan Smith has begun a gruelling tour of junior tournaments – and was runner-up at the first attempt. The 10-year-old, who attends Brenchley & Matfield Primary School, reached the final of the first Cue Stars competition in Salisbury, a grass roots initiative for under-21 players across the South of England. There are 10 events from this month to May 2019, contested over three different levels, Gold, Silver and Bronze Tours – for those with a personal best break of over 60, between 40 and 60, and less than 40. Dylan’s highest break so far is 33 so he is contesting the Bronze Tour. He has played exhibition frames against legends such as Jimmy White (twice) and Mark King at Victoria Snooker Centre on Camden Road. But this was a different experience altogether; he played 12 frames in total, winning nine of them. In the final he was beaten by another 10-year-old, Owen Jenkins from Havant.
His father Lee Smith said: “To play against kids his own age is quite rare for Dylan. When you’re in an exhibition match, everyone is on your side and they want you to do well. “This is a game-changer. He’s up against his peers, kids who really want to beat him. He needs to be composed and confident in his abilities. “He came away understanding how he needs to manage frames if he wants to walk off with the winners’ cup next time.” It’s a long, challenging day for young players, starting at 10am with the final at 9pm. Dylan had received specialist coaching in the build-up to the event, firstly from Neil Johnson at Scotty’s club on Merseyside. He played on a ‘star table’ – with professional pocket dimensions – which was donated by John Higgins to local 16-year-old tyro Sean Maddocks, who holds the record for the youngest 147 break aged 15 years and 98 days. “He had a very intensive weekend,” said Lee. “Neil Johnson puts so much effort in, giving advanced technical corrections and advising on
SMILING ASSASSIN Dylan Smith takes time out during his 12-frame tour opener
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break-building, shot routines – and how to manage yourself under pressure.” After his visit to Liverpool Dylan went on to Sheffield, home of the World Championship at the Crucible Theatre and also the Star Academy. The training was focused on the psychological side, channelling his energy – and the anger that arises when a shot goes wrong. Alan Trigg, head coach at the academy, told the Times: “Having coached thousands of juniors and hundreds of professional players alike over the past 45 years, I can say that with the correct motivation and hard work, Dylan will become a top player in the world. “I can see he has a natural talent for the game, which reminded me very much of a young Jimmy White, a great potter and fearless shot-maker. “This gives him a great advantage over other children his age. But to achieve professionalism it will require incredible hard work and he will need to learn the game at a fast pace. “In China and other countries there are children of Dylan’s age that are already achieving very high standards in the sport.” Dylan is looking for sponsorship so he can continue to receive coaching and to help cover the costs of his Bronze Tour travel. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Lee on 07796958312 or via Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DylanSmithSnooker
TJs hit top form again for magnificent seven Tonbridge Juddians 47 London Irish Wild Geese 19 RUGBY: TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS ran in seven tries and played some magnificent rugby to make up for their defeat at the hands of Canterbury in National Two South. They will, however, be disappointed that they did not maintain their earlier intensity as London Irish Wild Geese produced an impressive second-half comeback. The match began as a stop-start affair with plenty of dropped passes. However, a quick penalty saw Will Colderick go close before Mike O’Sullivan scored the first try with a trademark effort from a few inches out. After 20 minutes TJs enjoyed a purple patch; first Duncan Tout went over on the far left, then Will Robinson chipped and gathered. Finlay Coxon-Smith then scored a brace of tries – with the second proving a herculean effort as four defenders tried to cling on and prevent him from crashing over. Robinson missed just one conversion and TJs
COLLISION COURSE Ben Ashmore goes on the charge
PHOTO: Adam Hookway
By Adam Hookway
went in at the break 33-0 in front with a try bonus point already secured. TJs simply picked up where they had left off at the start of the second half and they scored again within five minutes of the restart. Lock forward Rory McHugh showed good pace and the ball was quickly recycled for winger Hugo Watson to shoot through and touch down, Robinson converting. But the Wild Geese are familiar opponents and they never lie down. They scored twice to make it 40-12 and sniffed a possible fightback. A penalty to the visitors at the kick-off put them straight back on the offensive. They moved the ball out of the maul to the blindside for winger George Owen to stroll through and score an unconverted try. TJs did finally make their way back into the Wild Geese 22. An attacking maul reached the line and flanker Truman Sullivan drove over to score; Robinson added the extras. TJs travel to Henley for their next match on Saturday [September 22, kick-off 3pm].
Doherty at the double as Wells shake off Shelford Shelford 27 Tunbridge Wells 34 By John Crees
PHOTO: Bruce Elliott
ON THE RUN Nick Doherty evades a tackle
RUGBY: AFTER the heavy defeat to Wimbledon last week, Tunbridge Wells managed to keep Shelford at arms’ length in the London & South-East Premier Division. Having sustained an injury in training, fly-half Frank Reynolds dropped out and in the reshuffle Academy product Max Edmonton started at No 9, returning to the club after almost two years. A surging run by back rowers Mike Hathaway and Dave Allen was rewarded with a penalty in front of the posts which Edmonton converted. But Shelford came straight back, their scrumhalf jinked his way through three poor tackles to dive over between the posts for a converted try. The home side recycled the ball well and Wells gave away two penalties which were converted. But Shelford were starting to look tired as the half wore on. From a solid five-metre scrum
Wells skipper Ryan Taylor-Dennehy crashed over on the stroke of half-time. Edmonton converted to make it 13-10 to the hosts at the interval. Wells emerged from the break full of energy and scored quickly through Nick Doherty and then Tom Bailey, who had a strong game in the centre; Edmonton converted the second time. Strong scrummaging saw the pack power their way over the line with Doherty touching down for his second try, Edmonton adding the extras. Constant pressure saw Wells strike again, this time with an excellent chip and chase for Taylor-Dennehy to go over for his second try. Then Shelford found their second wind and started to play their way back into the game with a converted try coming from their centre. Jamie Farris was sent to the sinbin after coming on to make his debut. Shelford took advantage of the extra man and scored a converted try in the last minute – but Wells were out of reach. They now face an unbeaten Westcliff at home on Saturday [September 22, kick-off 3pm].