Welcome to your festive edition of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine. Our final issue of the year is a cracker, boasting all you’ll need for a fantastic festive period. We have some great food and drink content, fabulous present ideas and a roundup of where to go in our local area. From pantos to ice skating and stunning seasonal light displays there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Talking of Christmas, our cover stars Greg Rose and John Dale of the newly opened Maybugs store in Chapel Place have all your gifting ideas wrapped up. We talk to them about what makes their retail business – which boasts three other stores across East Sussex –so unique. Take a read to discover how they are helping to keep retail alive on the High Street – and also supporting the local communities where their stores are located. Oh, and by doing so you will also have plenty of inspiration when it comes to sourcing presents, as their beautiful new boutique here in Tunbridge Wells really does have something for everyone.
We also talk to the Chief Creative Officer at the Cotswold Company about why Tunbridge Wells was on the successful interiors business’s store wish list, discuss the pros
Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is published by JJL Media & Marketing Ltd, 3 Chapman Way, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3EF. Registration no: 15546231 For enquiries please email hello@twbusinessmagazine.com or call 01892 574474 www.twbusinessmagazine.com
necessarily those of the publisher or Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine or
and cons of the controversial new Jaguar rebrand and preview the forthcoming TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells event.
Elsewhere we have pictures of all the best parties that have taken place across the town over the last month, plus a special feature with all the winners, runners up and guests who attended the first Tunbridge Wells Business Awards. Organised by Jess Gibson of The TN card and held at Trinity Theatre it was an absolute triumph and wonderful to see our business community across all sectors celebrated.
And in an exclusive, we are able to bring you the official name of the old cinema site development. Turn to page 28 to discover what it’s called and do let us know your thoughts! All that is left for me to say is a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year to you from all of us at Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.
Business news: What’s happening in our commercial community.
County News: A look at what’s happening in the Kent business community
Social scene:
A round-up of the month’s best parties and networking events
Speak up:
We preview what’s on at the first TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells in five years
EXCLUSIVE:
We reveal the name for the new development on the old cinema site
Award-winning: Celebrating the winners of the first TN card Business Awards
Gifts
and
Season’s eatings: Check out our festive feasting special
Bridal path: Why Quantum is the place to say ‘I do’ in style
Slow down: Lucy Parker of Flow Tunbridge Wells helps you relax
Face value: We meet Lara Husband of Skin Therapy, The Pantiles
experts
across the board...
Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is proud to have so many of our talented entrepreneurs and inspiring CEOs writing for the title. Whether it’s advice on accounting or property, information on current legal issues or HR legislation you will find all the expert industry guidance you need within these pages. This month our experts include the following...
Henry Adekoya Health & Fitness Specialist
Mark Hill Antiques Expert
Sarah Raine Director, Colley Raine & Associates
Dee Airey Photographer & Visibility Strategist
Darren Austin Director, Synergee
Darryl Coombes
Consultant Facial Plastic Surgeon, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Sophie Forrest-Lavery Founder, The Forrest Group
Jess Gibson Managing Director, The TN Card
Alex Green CEO, RTW Together
Matthew Hill Founder, Private Medical Insurance Brokers
Simon Howson-Green Technology Expert
Clare Lush-Mansell Founder, My Tunbridge Wells
Gavin Marsh Master Jeweller & Diamond Setter, Director Osmium Institute UK
Becky Moran CEO, TN Lettings
Deborah Richards Founder, Maddisons Residential
Neil Simmons ManagingDirector, TN Recruits
Jesse Fuller Slimming World Consultant & Team Developer
Siobhan Stirling Managing Director, Sharp Minds
Jon Traquair Founder, Fixio
Gillian Palmer Founder, The Finance Hub
Business linked to Tunbridge Wells man was 'Ponzi scheme' to defraud investors
BY JOHNATHAN BANKS
A FIRM set up by a Tunbridge Wells businessman 'operated as a Ponzi scheme' that led to more than 11,600 investors losing £237million, a court has found.
The forerunner to London Capital & Finance LCF was established by businessman Simon Hume-Kendall who subsequently transferred control of it to his former employee Andy Thomson in 2015.
He was a high profile figure in Tunbridge Wells for decades and at one time was Chair of the local Conservatve Association.
Mr Hume-Kendall lived at an impressive house on the edge of Bewl Water with his wife Helen and the couple are understood to still be residents of the town.
The firm collapsed in 2019, causing more than 11,000 investors to lose £237million but a court has now ruled that it was operating as a ‘Ponzi scheme’.
Mr Thomson and other individuals involved in LCF are now liable to pay millions in damages, the High Court has ruled.
Mr Justice Robert Miles concluded that LCF misrepresented itself to the public in a 'widespread, fundamental and systematic' way, following a High Court trial that started in February and originally involved 12 people connected with the collapsed firm.
People from across the country invested money into LCF mini-bonds, including from Kent, Sussex and Surrey.
Court documents found that the directors and those connected to the company used money to buy equestrian horses, property, supercars, luxury travel, membership to London clubs and make donations to the Conservative Party.
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION:
The Serious Fraud Office [SFO] opened a criminal investigation into LCF in 2019. In 2019, five individuals were arrested in the Kent and Sussex areas. All four were released pending further investigation. Following a review of the evidence, one individual from Sussex is no longer a suspect in the SFO’s investigation.
In 2020, two further individuals in the Kent area were interviewed for money laundering in connection with the LCF investigation.
In 2021, one further individual in the Kent area was interviewed in connection with Fraud and Money Laundering offences relating to the LCF investigation.
In a statement the SFO said: “The SFO
“London
Capital & Finance
was set up by Tunbridge Wells businessman Simon HumeKendall in 2012 but was renamed after he resigned”
In the High Court hearing, Mr Justice Miles said the company had ‘presented itself to investors as a commercial lender’ to small and medium-sized UK companies.
But a ‘substantial’ amount of money was taken and used to make payments to the defendants who used the money “as they wished”.
He cited Mr Hume-Kendall, his wife Helen Hume-Kendall, Mr Spencer Golding of Sussex and Mr Elten Barker of Crowborough, along with LCF director Andy Thomson.
The judge said: “Mr Thomson, the First Defendant, was a director of LCF. His business associates included Mr HumeKendall, Mr Golding and Mr Barker. They were all involved in owning or running a group of companies known as the London Group.”
OVERVIEW:
continues to investigate the dealings of London Capital and Finance Plc and associated companies.”
COMPANY HISTORY:
London Capital & Finance was set up by Tunbridge Wells businessman Simon Hume-Kendall in 2012 but was renamed after he resigned.
It passed to Andy Thomson, a former employee of Mr Hume-Kendall.
HOW IT OPERATED:
LCF raised £237 million from more than 11,600 investors by issuing mini-bonds that promised high interest rates. Much of this money went to firms controlled by men connected to LCF for supposed investment into oil and gas. However, the LCF ‘misappropriated’
He said money raised by LCF from investors was ‘lent to companies in the London Group, which was closely connected with Mr Thomson, Mr HumeKendall, Mr Golding and Mr Barker.’
He added that the ‘claims against Mr and Mrs Hume-Kendall were settled early in the trial, and the claims against Mr Barker were settled before the trial.’
But he concluded that Mr Thomson ‘misappropriated’ money from investors and said: “LCF was operated as a Ponzi scheme.”
Ponzi schemes often advertise attractive rates of return for investors in order to lure in money, but returns are paid from money coming in from new investors.
The judge said: “It very frequently paid funds from new bondholders to borrowers which subsequently - and indeed, almost immediately - returned these amounts to LCF to enable it to make interest or redemption payments to existing bondholders.
“LCF depended almost entirely on new bondholder investments to make interest and redemption payments to existing bondholders, as there was no independent source of income from LCF’s borrowers from which to make the payments.”
He said Mr Thomson and Mr Golding were liable for breaches of duties owed to LCF as directors while three other men – John Russell-Murphy, from Eastbourne, Paul Careless, who was chief executive of Brighton-based Surge Financial, and Robert Sedgwick, a former lawyer, all “dishonestly assisted” Mr Thomson and Mr Golding.
Another court hearing is set for December to decide how much compensation the men should pay.
the money and used the remainder to pay off older bondholders, eventually leaving it more than it held in investments.
THE COLLAPSE:
LCF went into administration in 2019, triggering one of Britain's biggest retail investment scandals. The collapse cost investors more than £237 million.
THE RULING:
In November, a London judge ruled that LCF operated as a Ponzi scheme and that former CEO Andy Thomson and four others knowingly participated in the fraud.
The case against Simon Hume-Kendall and his wife Helen was settled during the trial.
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Almost 200 pubs and restaurants face ‘staggering’ cost increases post-budget
BY RICHARD MOORE
SMALL businesses have spent the last few weeks counting the price of the chancellor’s budget with one summing up the extra money they will have to find as ‘absolutely staggering’.
Among the hardest hit are pubs and restaurants and there are 188 of them across the borough.
The British Beer and Pub Association said the budget has proved ‘a deep and painful wound’ and that the industry has been left ‘reeling’ and let down by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
It warned that venues will shut, jobs will be lost and the price of a pint will go up.
In Tunbridge Wells one independent restaurant owner, for example, is looking at having to find an additional £46,700 a year.
That restaurant is Sankey’s and the figure comes from the owner/operator Matthew Sankey who also happens to be the Small Business Champion for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on which he serves as a councillor.
“The figure of £46,700 is the equivalent to a full-time employee,” said Mr Sankey who runs two restaurants in the town.
“In Tunbridge Wells one independent restaurant owner is looking at having to find an additional £46,700 a year post-budget”
“If we cannot find the savings or create additional turnover, then we might very well be forced into finding them from our payroll – which could result in fewer hours being offered, the loss of a member of staff to that value or us not recruiting someone for such a role.
At first it might be the facts and figures, but what Panoramic Wealth loves to know are the things that really matter; the goals and dreams that person, couples or family have their eyes set upon. The art of Financial Planning is first understanding who we are advising. Life has a funny way of making itself more complicated on its own, which is where we come in to help. It might be that matters are somewhat complicated when Financial Planning goes hand in hand with running your own business, but we are used to that.
Based in Tunbridge Wells since 1989 specialising in advising many family businesses, and as one ourselves we can totally empathise. We have been able to guide clients on their different business journeys from inception to sale.
“The bottom line is that figure needs to be re-discovered, and that’s either going to be via increased sales or via savings.
“Increased sales will essentially be us increasing prices, further hyping inflation or savings which will likely be from the payroll. The numbers, to be blunt, are absolutely staggering.”
To put the figures into perspective Mr Sankey gave some percentage headlines:
“Net wages will increase by 4.71% - I think it’s fair to say that this is entirely wearable and frankly the minimum wage has been too low for far too long.
“Employers' National Insurance (NI) Contributions will increase by 81.01% - in any market, this is an entirely unacceptable increase.
“With rates the figure is alarming, at 140%. The increase in the NI allowance, the rate that you get to offset against your NI bill, or a threshold if you like, has been increased. But it doesn’t really scratch the surface of the NI increase itself.
“All in all, this part of the budget is a serious blow to SMEs like myself who help shape the face of our towns and high streets.”
For businesses and their owners, we can assist on:
• Tax efficient profit extraction.
• Succession and continuity planning.
• Using pensions to buy commercial property.
• Employer Ownership Trusts.
• Estate and Later Life planning to mitigate inheritance tax.
Planning for Individuals:
With so much more to retirement than just pensions these days, we can also ensure you know the answers to the following questions:
• “How much is enough?”
• “When can I retire?”
• “What will retirement look like?”
Sankey’s Champagne & Seafood bar on the Pantiles
Hundreds of NHS patients now being referred to the former private hospital at Fordcombe
BY RICHARD MOORE
THE first NHS patients are now being treated at the former privately owned Spire Hospital in Tunbridge Wells. It was bought by Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Trust (MTW) for £10million from capital funds and has been renamed Fordcombe Hospital.
The acquisition will enable the trust to support the NHS across Kent and Medway by taking on a significant number of the longest waiting patients.
"We are really pleased to be a part of this and are already seeing the impact the increase in capacity is making to patient care and experience."
More than 1,600 patients have already been referred for treatment at the site and the trust aims to see a total of 2,500 patients by the end of March 2025.
MTW Chief Executive Miles Scott (Pictured) said it was working ‘to treat those patients who have been waiting the longest’.
The trust purchased the hospital in March 2024 (as reported in this magazine) from Spire Healthcare and following a six-month transition period, with the first patients arriving in October. Fordcombe Hospital will provide planned care in ear, nose and throat, trauma and orthopaedics, gastroenterology, diagnostics and endoscopy.
The additional facilities the site offers have enabled MTW to increase capacity at the trust hospitals in Pembury and Maidstone.
All of the 170 staff who worked at the former Spire Healthcare site have transferred to MTW.
Mr Scott said: “The trust is working in collaboration with our NHS partners to treat those patients who have been waiting the longest.
“We are really pleased to be a part of this and are already seeing the impact the increase in capacity is making to patient care and experience.”
Stamp Duty and the Autumn Budget 2024 – Time to move?
By Anna Dunn, Partner, Residential Property, CooperBurnett LLP
The Autumn Budget announced that several Stamp Duty Land Tax measures will end on 1 April 2025. This change is expected to impact first-time buyers and has already stimulated the property market, with many choosing to act before the deadline.
The ‘nil-rate’ or 0% bracket - the amount firsttime buyers can spend without paying Stamp Duty - will drop from £425,000 to £300,000, which could increase Stamp Duty costs by over £6,000 for buyers purchasing a property for £425,000. Additionally, the 5% rate bracket will decrease from £650,000 to £500,000, potentially raising Stamp Duty by more than £11,000 for first-time buyers.
These changes will also affect other buyers. The amount at which the standard rate of Stamp Duty is payable by those not purchasing their first property is decreasing from £250,000 to £125,000 from the 1 April 2025. Anyone looking to save £2,500 will want to have completed their transaction on their purchase by 31 March 2025.
Those buying a second property will face a 2% higher tax rate in each bracket, on top of the existing surcharge of 3%. These changes could provide a slight advantage for first-time buyers who may not be in such hot competition with landlords and investors.
The impact will be more significant in areas such as London and the South East, where property prices are above average. Since a typical property transaction takes eight to 12 weeks, those considering buying their first or next home are encouraged to start planning now.
If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact Anna Dunn by email: ald@cooperburnett.com or tel: 01892 515022.
Kent is on track to become one
UK’s most thriving hubs for business
WConfidence in Kent’s commercial property market is on the up says Andrew Metcalf, Managing Director of Maxim, a leading regional PR, marketing and public affairs agency based in Tunbridge Wells and Vice-Chair of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. Here he looks at what’s happening in various sectors around the county…
hile the recent Budget has hit business confidence, the outlook for the property industry is improving, according to the 33rd edition of the annual Kent Property Market Report. Produced by Caxtons Property Consultants, Kent County Council and Locate in Kent, the report can be found at www.kentpropertymarket.com
The conclusion is that the county is moving towards calmer territory in 2025, with key sectors of the property market performing well or showing signs of improvement. The industrial and distribution sector is expected to be the top-performing property sector, thanks to leading logistics and warehousing developers tackling a decade of under supply with the creation of new highquality space.
Kent’s gaining a reputation as a logistics
hub and now offers some of the largest speculative warehouses in the South East.
Panattoni, the UK’s largest independent logistics and distribution property developer, has invested more than £400m in the county, with Panattoni Park Sittingbourne the largest speculative
property development in Kent in more than a decade. It’ll eventually offer a total of 773,000ft2, on a 36-acre site, and has already secured DPD as a tenant.
The investment at Sittingbourne is on
Across Kent office rents have risen by 2% over the last year whereas in Tunbridge Wells rents remain static and there is considered oversupply of ‘grade A’ suites
top of Panattoni Park Aylesford, where 144,000 ft2 was delivered for Amazon, and a further 621,072 ft2 is due for practical completion for Tesco shortly, adding to buildings for DHL, Evri, Fowler
Welch and Marley Tiles.
Across Kent office rents have risen by 2% over the last year, whereas in Tunbridge Wells rents remain static and there is now considered to be an oversupply of ‘grade A’ suites. This means the town is still the second highest in Kent in terms of rents for offices per m2, after Sevenoaks.
However, when it comes to the rents for logistics and warehouse space, Tunbridge Wells lags behind Dartford and Sevenoaks, instead being on a par with Tonbridge and Medway. Site values are stabilising after last year’s falls.
Not surprisingly, it’s difficult to paint a clear picture when it comes to the retail property market because rents by town
are driven by many factors. The more affluent towns appear to be holding their own, but Tunbridge Wells is proving the exception with rents falling significantly year-on-year. However, the borough is still the most expensive per ft2 in the county, ahead of Canterbury.
And finally, tourism and leisure investment is positive. Kent could be on track literally to get a new motorsportthemed centre after the owners of Buckmore Park unveiled plans to create The Paddock, a new 20,000ft2 building at
the much-loved Kent karting circuit.
The Paddock’s design is inspired by the golden era of motorsport and the life of John Surtees, the circuit’s former owner and seven-times motorcycle world champion and Formula One world champion, who passed away in 2017.
If approved it would include a stateof-the-art full-motion simulator room, a restaurant and bar, and viewing terrace overlooking the circuit to meet the growing demand from the public and karting community.
Celebrating the best of Kent’s business community
This year’s winners of the Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards were announced at a gala dinner attended by more than 250 of the county’s business leaders.
Now in their 19th year, the annual business awards, organised by Kent Invicta Chamber in conjunction with Kent County Council, celebrate the exceptional achievements of the local business community across ten categories.
Sponsored by Evelyn Partners, the wealth, accountancy and business advisory services company, the dinner was held at the historic Westenhanger Castle on Thursday 21st November.
This year’s ceremony saw Canterburybased Kent Crisps take the title of Business of the Year, in recognition of its
team’s success, led by Laura Bounds, MBE. Roger Gough, Leader of Kent County Council, commented: “The businesses recognised at the dinner reflect the innovation, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit that define Kent. Their contributions not only strengthen our economy but enrich our communities. Thank you for making Kent a thriving hub for business.”
Bringing joy to the Wells…
The festive season officially launched on Thursday 14 November with RTW Together BID’s Joy to the Wells Christmas Kick-Off. Over 3,000 people were in town joining in the festivities which started outside the Opera House with the harmonious voices of Rock Choir, a VIP launch group showering snow onto the waiting crowds and the big event itself: the launch of a dedicated new illumination, sponsored by Maxipay which projected a bespoke Tunbridge Wells Christmas video over the Opera House building. Thursday also saw the Christmas lights officially turned on across
Whether it’s one of Tunbridge Wells’ four Christmas shows, ice skating or curling, live music or visiting Santa, there’s plenty to see and do over the festive period
Christmas officially started in Royal Tunbridge Wells last month with a series of events that drew record crowds. Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine shines a light on the fabulous festivities…
Tunbridge Wells with 68 motif displays, 21 sets of suspended decorations in trees and four dedicated feature displays.
Santa’s arrival in his sparkling sleigh, thanks to the help of RTW Round Table, was flanked by elves from Trinity Theatre handing out chocolate coins and free raffle tickets. A singalong with Santa Parade, sponsored by CooperBurnett, took to the streets, travelling down
Mount Pleasant Road and the High Street. The singalong was ably assisted by Victoria Sampson from CooperBurnett and CBBC star Stewart McCheyne, who stars in Aladdin at the Assembly Hall Theatre this year. Waiting on the High Street was Kitty Cassis who announced the 25 winners in the bauble bingo. Mike Martin MP, and fireworks partner, Demelza along with a special VIP family that the charity
supports, pushed the plunger to launch the finale. A spectacular yet quiet eightminute firework display then followed to music that lit up the rooftops of Tunbridge Wells.
Thursday also saw the launch of the Big Reveal Christmas Windows sponsored by Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, where over 50 retailers, hospitality and businesses revealed their creative, exciting festive displays.
As this magazine went to print, the final 12 had yet to be selected so if you’re reading this on the day of publication then residents and tourists are being asked to choose their favourite by voting by 19 December at www.bigrevealrtw.co.uk
Once the finalists are known, there will be a children’s Christmas trail to take part in up until 29 December, which will visit the 12 finalist windows.
Royal Victoria Place officially switched their Christmas lights on Saturday 16 November, with a special celebrity visit from Ore Oduba, Star of Strictly Come Dancing and Aladdin at the Assembly Hall theatre. The Snow Queen and her friends entertained families, Santa’s grotto was open for visits and the Absolute Gospel and Rock Choirs filled RVP with festive vibes.
To find out everything that is going on in the town, have a look at the advent calendar on p12, or download the new ‘RTW Love Local’ app from your app store.
Putting you at the heart of what we do.
Strong connections
Last month, on 13th November 2024, local telecommunications firm Active Digital, opened its doors for the company’s first ‘Connect over Coffee’ networking event. It took place at Active Digital’s new offices in Five Oak Green and was attended by a number of clients and local businesses.
“Events like this remind us of the power of coming together over a cup of coffee,” Active Digital’s Business Director and CoOwer Jo Wimble-Groves told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.
Jo launched the multi-awardwinning telecoms business with her brother Richard Groves in 1994 – and coincidentally their first base was also in Five Oak Green.
“Active Digital has a distinguished reputation for delivering sustainable telecom solutions that keep businesses connected, no matter their size,” added Jo.
The company specialises in providing mobile devices, broadband, Starlink and digital solutions helping UK organisations to become paper free, and more sustainable.
Managing Director, Richard Groves commented: “Active Digital has enjoyed substantial growth over the years. Thank you to all our fantastic staff (past and present), our loyal customers and everyone who helped and supported us along the way. Here’s to the next part of our business adventure.”
www.activedigital.co.uk
From stage fright to spotlight –be a more confident presenter at work
A lack of confidence or a poor slide deck (if you use one) can mean you fail to engage your audience or meet your objectives when presenting at work.
Tunbridge Wells-based Hendrix Training uses communication experts and professional actors to help individuals and teams of employees become more confident presenters.
The interactive coaching is ideal for companies of any size and covers:
• Preparation and understanding your audience. Who is in the room?
• Are you in the right mindset to present?
• Why are you doing the presentation?
• What is your story and how do you make it engaging?
• How to calm your nerves before and during a presentation
• How to be aware of body language and the signals it sends out to your audience
• How to use your voice effectively to ensure your messages land and you take the audience with you
• How to deal with difficult questions during the Q&A section
• PowerPoint clinic Hendrix Training works with clients in the UK and internationally across the private, public and third sectors.
Co-founder and creative director Lucy Morgans, a professional TV and theatre actor, says: “Our coaching suits anyone, from ambitious junior staff to senior managers who want help with public speaking. There is practical advice that ends with learners being able to deliver a more confident and engaging presentation.”
To find out more, and to view some of Hendrix Training’s other soft skills courses, please visit www.hendrixtraining.com
Email director Steve Hemsley steve@hendrixtraining.com or call him personally on 07816329970
Lucy Morgans
TLegal duty
he Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and District Law Society held its annual dinner on Friday November 22. The event took place at The Spa Hotel.
The organisation, which has been representing solicitors in Kent since 1933, welcomed nearly 150 guests with 12 local law firms being represented. They included Becket Chambers, Thomson Snell and Passmore, Hunter Law, CooperBurnett, Warners, Buss Murton, Cripps, Clarke Kiernan, Berry & Lamberts LLP, Tassells & Pump Court Chambers.
The evening’s guest speaker was Richard Atkinson, the new President of The Law Society of England and Wales. The Kentbased criminal solicitor spoke to guests about how he was finding the first few weeks of his new role, while Joanna Pratt, current President of the Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and District Law Society, also gave a speech.
Other dignitaries present on the night were Mr Nicholas Fisher DL, Deputy Lieutenant for Kent, Dr Gillian Fargher, High Sheriff of Kent and Cllr Nancy Warne, Madam Mayor of Tunbridge Wells.
In addition to the main ceremony, there was also a Junior Lawyer Division which presented awards for the best paralegal, trainee solicitor and junior lawyer.
Over £3,300 was raised for the Demelza Hospice courtesy of a hamper raffle and a fun game of Heads and Tails.
Photography by David Bartholomew
Financial planning tips for entrepreneurs
It can be easy to neglect your own finances when you’re focused on growing your business. But creating a solid plan for both your business and personal finances can give you more confidence your hard work will pay off.
Here are five financial planning tips for entrepreneurs.
1. Make the most of pensions
Relying solely on your business to provide for retirement is risky.
Making contributions into a pension could help you save for retirement. As a business owner, you can make your own tax-efficient savings into your pension and make employer contributions that are deductible against corporation tax.
Your accountant can help you make the most of all the personal and business tax reliefs.
2. Protect against risks
Insure not just your business premises and stock, but also what’s arguably your most valuable asset – yourself. Protection against death and illness could be crucial.
Also consider key person protection and shareholder protection to minimise disruption should the worst happen to one of your key members of staff or shareholders.
Finally, make sure your will states who will receive your shares or business interest when you die.
3. Plan your exit strategy
Planning your exit early could reap rewards. Work with a financial adviser to determine your ‘magic number’ – how much you would need from a sale to achieve your desired lifestyle. The adviser can also help you work out how much your future lifestyle might cost, and whether your finances are sufficient.
If you are hoping to leave your business to your family, you might qualify for business relief. This could mean there is no inheritance tax to pay on your company shares when you die.
4. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
While growing your business should be the priority, also consider investing across other asset classes, such as equities, bonds, and cash. This could help to cushion the impact if your company doesn’t perform quite as well as expected.
We can help you build a diversified portfolio that suits your individual needs and objectives.
5. Surround yourself with experts
At RBC Brewin Dolphin, we can introduce you to the right people at the right stage of your journey – whether that’s venture capital firms, lawyers, tax advisers or accountants.
We’ve worked with thousands of business owners, supporting them in making the right decisions. With us at your side, you can concentrate on looking forward to the future with confidence.
We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.
Graeme Hayden Investment Manager Divisional
Director
E: graeme.hayden@brewin.co.uk
Evelyn Iriajen Financial Adviser Assistant Director
The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.
RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of RBC Europe Limited. RBC Europe Limited is registered in England and Wales No. 995939. Registered Address: 100 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AA. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
Getting down to business
THE inaugural Tunbridge Wells Business Show was held on Thursday November 7. The event hosted 46 exhibitors and over 200 visitors and took place at Salomons Estate. Organiser Nick Bryant, who runs the Brilliant Businesses group, told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine that the event was a 'brilliant success'.
"Our headline sponsor Loch Associates Group delivered a fantastic seminar on UK employment law and there was a full house with Emma Pearce from Pearce Marketing presenting an extremely insightful talk on LinkedIn."
Exhibitors included TN Recruits, RTW Together, Berry & Lamberts, Fixio and Thackray Williams.
"All in all, it was a brilliant success and feedback has been very positive. Watch this space for news about the 2025 show," added Nick.
Photography:
Dignity and duty
Award-winning family funeral directors GM Valentine invited the community of Royal Tunbridge Wells to its memorable opening ceremony last month. The event, held in the vicinity of its St John’s Road premises, was marked by a blend of tradition and celebration, perfectly setting the tone for the dignified services the establishment offers.
The Deputy Mayor of Tunbridge Wells Cllr David Osborne attended the ceremony, emphasising the importance of compassionate funeral services in supporting families during difficult times. In his speech, he expressed
gratitude to the new funeral directors for their commitment to serving the local community with care, honesty and professionalism.
A live jazz band performed a variety of fitting melodies, creating an atmosphere of reflection and celebration of life while the arrival of a traditional horse-drawn carriage symbolised the timeless elegance and respect GM Valentine funeral directors aim to bring to their services. Guests were also given the opportunity to tour the beautifully designed premises, showcasing modern facilities alongside traditional elements, designed to provide comfort and support to grieving families.
Photography: 28th Street Media
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People power
On Saturday 23 November, 140 people gathered at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre.
Named after the late local oncologist, Dr David Pickering, the centre provides a safe, friendly and homely space for anyone impacted by cancer, as well as their friends and family. It also offers complementary therapies and crafts.
The centre was the idea of a group of cancer patients, including Polly Taylor BEM, who has been a guiding light for the past two decades and was recently named as its President.
Pickering originally opened its doors on Friday 26 November 2004 at the Homeopathic Hospital in Tunbridge Wells but, as the need for its services grew, the charity moved to its current home in Monson Road in July 2007.
At the birthday event, Polly Taylor said: “Thank you to all our volunteers, who have
given their time and love over 20 years. It’s not an easy thing to do, as they take on the problems, stress and worry of our visitors.”
She had a special word for Centre Manager, Caroline McGibney, who has steered Pickering through a shifting landscape for charities over the past few years, which has seen increased regulation and compliance.
Polly then introduced visitor and fundraiser, Leigh Stevens, who has recently completed 20 challenges for Pickering (raising £14,000 so far). She told guests: “I really want to thank the volunteers; you are so precious to us. Visitors; we appreciate your endless love, support and kindness.
When we were introduced to Pickering we felt ‘held and heard’. Pickering is truly my safe space.”
Chair of the Board of Trustees, David Bartholomew, thanked Leigh and said: “She is truly inspiring and lights up every room she enters.”
by
Photography
Daniel Bartholomew
“As an insurer we know the impact freezing temperatures can have”
Shaun Joubert, Managing Partner
at NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells, advises home and business owners to watch out for the signs of frozen pipes as temperatures plummet…
AFTER a mild autumn, temperatures plummeted last month, causing disruption across the country.
As an insurer of many homes and businesses in the region, we know the impact freezing temperatures can have, from increasing the risk of road collisions to damaging homes.
One of the most significant risks we see at this time of year is water damage from frozen pipes. When water in pipes freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to split or burst, particularly if they already have a small undetected leak. When the pipes thaw, water will escape to the immediate and surrounding area.
Escape of water is a hidden danger for property owners, with the potential to cause significant damage and disruption.
Last year, NFU Mutual received almost 6,500 escape of water claims at an average cost of £9,670. Larger claims can run to over £100,000, and it's common for a leak to cause such damage that it forces a person to vacate their property to allow for repairs and structural work to take place.
STEPS TO TAKE NOW TO PREVENT PIPES FROM FREEZING:
If taps or toilets stop working or refilling, or your boiler stops working, your taps may be frozen. If this happens:
• Know where your stopcock is and turn off the water
• Open the taps and then attempt to thaw the area using hot cloths or towels or a similar item like a hot water bottle. Never use a naked flame and do not apply strong heat directly to the area. Consider placing a container beneath the area to catch any leaks if the pipe is burst
• If there is a leak, ensure the mains water supply remains off and the water system is drained and contact your insurer
• Steps to take now to prevent pipes from freezing:
• The chances of pipes freezing and splitting depends on the weather, the age and construction of the plumbing, and other factors like the level of insulation in your home. However, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the chances of damage.
• Insulate pipes and water tanks with inexpensive lagging and tank jackets, paying particular attention to areas exposed to the cold – for example, outdoor pipes and those in attics, basements and lesserused rooms
• Set your thermostat to kick in above freezing temperature, or set the heating to regularly come on, even if you are not home
• If leaving the house for a number of days, turn the water off at the mains and run the taps to avoid water building up in pipes
• Insulate your home with draught excluders and other methods
• When the heating is on, consider opening doors to little-used rooms and cupboards where pipes are
• Fix leaky taps, which can increase the chance of freezing
NFU Mutual has provided a handy guide for property owners on how to prevent frozen pipe damage. Visit www.nfumutual.co.uk for more information.
Escape of water is a hidden danger for property owners.
Last year, NFU Mutual received almost 6,500 escape of water claims at an average cost of £9,670
“ ”
It's therefore vital that property owners do all they can to recognise the signs of a frozen pipe and take action to prevent damage before it thaws.
If taps or your boiler aren’t working, or your toilet stops working, turn off your mains water supply, investigate and call a plumber if necessary. With the water off, you can thaw pipes yourself to check for a leak by holding a hot water bottle to the area – never a naked flame. If you find a leak, call your insurer.
To prevent pipes from freezing during this cold snap, and into the winter months, keep heating on, at least to a low level, and make sure the warm air can circulate to all parts of the house. You can also consider fitting lagging or other insulation to exposed pipes.
Create Balance are a modern and thriving accountancy and tax practice based in Tunbridge Wells but serve clients all over the UK. We provide: X
We believe selecting the right accountant and tax adviser is paramount to your financial success. To discuss how we can help your business flourish call us on 01892 311890 or email hello@createbalance.uk
The power to change the world…
Georgia Strivens, Head of Marketing at TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells, tells Eileen Leahy all about this inspiring event which returns next March and promises to spark ideas and conversations but also fuel meaningful change in myriad ways
TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells returns next March. It will be the first time in five years that the event has been hosted in the town and will take place at Trinity Theatre.
For those not familiar with TEDx events then, in brief, they are independently organised gatherings that bring the spirit of TED to local communities, aiming to amplify local voices and ideas that have the power to change the world.
TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design (TED) converged. Since then the movement has grown globally with talks being given all over the world by a variety of experts across different sectors including the business, scientific and creative communities – and many more.
And while TED Talks are held at global TED conferences and broadcast to an international audience, TEDx events are smaller, community-focused occasions that follow the same format but are tailored to a specific geographic area.
“TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells takes place on 16th March at Trinity Theatre. Its theme, ‘Next Steps,’ reflects recent global and local changes, exploring ideas that shape our future.
”TEDx talks feature local speakers who present thought-provoking ideas and solutions relevant to the community.
With the strapline ‘Ideas Change Everything’ TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells is designed to spark conversations, inspire connections, and fuel meaningful change within the local Tunbridge Wells community.
These talks, usually 10 to 15 minutes long, cover a broad range of topics, all aimed at informing, educating, and inspiring action.
At TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells, we’re giving a stage to local innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. This is about more than just sharing ideas. It’s about creating a space where collaboration thrives and where our community becomes stronger, more connected, and ready to make a lasting impact.
TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells first started on 6th June 2015 at Skinners’ Kent Academy, with the last event held on
ABOUT TED
TED is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organisation dedicated to discovering, debating and spreading ideas that spark conversation, deepen understanding and drive meaningful change. The organisation is devoted to curiosity, reason, wonder and the pursuit of knowledge - without an agenda. It welcomes people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world and connection with others, and invites everyone to engage with ideas and activate them in their community.
1st February 2020 at the Assembly Hall Theatre. Then, COVID hit, and everything changed.
However, last year, Lizzie BentleyBowers and Nathan Friend decided it was time to bring TEDx back to Tunbridge Wells. We’re starting afresh, rebuilding our team of passionate volunteers who are committed to making TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells not just an event, but a lasting presence in our community. The world’s shifted, Tunbridge Wells has evolved, and we want to make sure our event keeps pace with that change.
The theme of our event on 16th March at Trinity Theatre is ‘Next Steps’. It reflects the significant changes we have seen over the past five years, from rapid global and local transformations to advancements in AI and shifts in our town’s governance. It explores the ideas that will shape our future. It is about moving forward with purpose, embracing the new, and driving meaningful conversations that matter to our community.
It’s about making TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells sustainable, and ensuring that the energy and ideas we bring to the table make an impact long after the event is over. Things are changing, but we’re doing it in a way that will bring the community along with us.
Stay tuned to our social channels for more speaker and sponsor announcements - plus extra ticket releases in January.
We’re excited to expand our offering, and make TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells a key part of our community, with more opportunities for attendees to engage with us throughout the year.
We couldn’t have brought TEDx back to Tunbridge Wells without the backing of local sponsors and the dedication of our brilliant volunteers. They’ve been the backbone of this revival, helping us create bold ideas that thrive.
Looking ahead, we’re now on the hunt for partners who share our vision and want to be part of something powerful.
Sponsoring TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells isn’t just about writing a cheque: it’s about joining a movement and building a true partnership. You’ll connect with an engaged community, boost your brand’s visibility, and drive meaningful change right here at home. And for those keen to roll up their sleeves and get involved, we’re always looking for passionate volunteers to help us bring this vision to life. Fancy it? Get in touch.
For tickets and more info visit tedxroyaltunbridgewells.com/march2025
Watch all past TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells talks here: tedxroyaltunbridgewells.com/talks
Photography by: George Juby and others
Take action by joining Amplifi
2024 has been a year of action for local organisation Amplifi with more to come in 2025…
In January, Amplifi will cometo the end of its ‘First Year of Action’, and what a year it has been. It all kicked off with a phenomenal January launch event, where over 120 people happily queued in the cold to get into The Amelia Scott.
Fast forward to the end of 2024, and there are now 210 people, from over 180 businesses, committed to making a sustainable difference collectively as part of Amplifi. The group, a non-profit organisation, helping to unify businesses around the issues of climate change and community, was co-founded by Jenny Kitchen from Yoyo Design and Pete Kenyon from Cripps law firm.
This year 28 meetings have taken place across various sector groups including food and drink, retail, creative, media & tech, professional services, real estate, public sector & not-for-profit. The year began with businesses learning to measure where their biggest carbon emissions come from.
Of the many carbon measurement programmes available, Amplifi partnered with hugely-experienced Net Zero Now to offer discounted programmes to
members.
Playbooks were also provided giving details about key emitters, and ways to reduce carbon within specific sectors. The breadth of topics covered included: energysaving techniques, electric bikes, property improvements (owned and rented), pensions and banking, travel, employee engagement, accreditations such as B Corp and influencing the supply chain.
Amplifi members also had a key voice in the recent TWBC Local Climate Strategy. TWBC wants to be ambitious, they want to help businesses reduce carbon emissions, whilst remaining sustainable,and prosperous, in the coming years ahead.
Jenny Kitchen, Amplifi co-founder told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine: “For Tunbridge Wells to get to net zero needs all of us. To ask ourselves, what can we do in our business’s sustainability journey? Next year, we’ve more collaboration through a programme of
FACT – Many local organisations put up with sub-standard support from their IT or Telecoms provider. Why?
Maybe they are under contract (or they aren’t sure) or they are too scared to take the leap of faith.
It’s often pretty easy to move providers. Even when under contract you can ‘get your ducks in a row’ early so you can benefit from a new provider and a smooth transition.
Here is what you shouldn’t put up with. Suppliers that:
1. Take several hours (or in some cases days/weeks!) to resolve your problems
2. Take huge amounts of time to respond to queries
3. Don’t have a proper ticketing system to manage your day-to-day issues
4. Have not invested in Remote Monitoring and Maintenance which will provide alerts on things that have gone wrong or are about to
5. Pick and choose what is included in their support
6. Never keep in touch with you (until they suspect you are looking elsewhere) , just taking the money and not being proactive with regular review meetings to discuss their service and how things can be improved with your technology
7. Sign you up for long term contracts with unfair auto-renewal clauses
If this is your organisation and you are fed up with your service provider and you want the WOW FACTOR, please get in touch.
There are over 70 customer testimonials on our web site – just Google ‘tecwork
webinars and film screenings to inspire, educate and showcase what can be achieved.”
Pete Kenyon, co-founder added: “Businesses can make a difference, and we’re here to support you. We need to remind ourselves of the urgency of the situation we find ourselves in, and find ways to make time and resources available.
“By bringing businesses together, Amplifi are trying to make action easier and quicker. Wherever you are on your sustainability journey, please come and join us.”
People poll picks the name for new
retirement village on old cinema site
EXCLUSIVE By Richard Moore
Earlier this year, members of the public were invited to vote in a social media poll to decide what to call the new £72million retirement community in Tunbridge Wells town centre.
They were given three options: Paramount Place, Lumiere Heights or Cascade Place.
Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine can reveal that the winning name is ... Paramount Place, which took 47% of the public vote.
The name is said to ‘reflect the vibrant central location’ of the 1.5 acre project being built at the top of Mount Pleasant Road in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. It is part of the Thrive Living Collection by Retirement Villages and is designed to ‘foster community connections with a focus on wellbeing’.
We wanted the local community to help name the development, reflecting our commitment to making Paramount Place a true part of Tunbridge Wells
The site had been plagued by problems since the cinema closed its doors in 2000 and there were multiple failed attempts by others to develop the plot. The new project will help rejuvenate the town centre.
Unlike care homes, independent retirement communities like Paramount Place cater to over 65s seeking a more ‘active and sociable lifestyle, rather than a care-led provision’.
Thrive Living also prefers to operate in central locations that make it easy for residents to stay connected to the wider community and enjoy direct access to all the amenities that an urban setting and vibrant community like Tunbridge Wells has to offer.
Aside from providing 166 apartments, Paramount Place will feature shared spaces for socialising, a restaurant open to residents and the public plus a ground-floor shops.
RESIDENTS of Paramount Place will benefit from a ‘trailblazing’ home ownership option, launched earlier this year. The first of its kind in the UK, this model makes living in the retirement community ‘simpler, more affordable, and transparent’.
It provides residents with lower
Construction is reported to be on schedule with groundworks complete and several buildings already rising above the hoarding boards. The developers say Paramount Place is due to open towards the end of 2026.
“This is an exciting time for everyone involved in Paramount Place and Thrive Living,” said Duncan Matthews, Development Director at Retirement Villages Group “We’ve moved beyond the early stages focused on foundations, and now the buildings are taking shape for all
monthly fees, a guaranteed sale price for the property and a sales process fully managed by Thrive Living.
For more information about Paramount Place visit tunbridge-wells. retirementvillages.co.uk
To learn more about ownership options call 01892 313 401.
to see.
“We wanted the local community to help name the development, reflecting our commitment to making Paramount Place a true part of Tunbridge Wells. We’re not just building homes, we’re creating a community where older generations can thrive, stay active and connected.
“Paramount Place will offer a sense of belonging, supported by the vibrant local network of businesses, cultural hubs, and shops.”
Goal 17, a pioneering mentoring initiative founded by Tunbridge Wells resident Fran Boorman has just launched a county-wide programme. Here we discover more about it – and how you can be a part of it
Kent has been announced as the next county to benefit from an award-winning, free mentoring programme that matches 16and 17-year-olds who are experiencing disadvantage, with volunteer mentors from their communities.
Goal 17, founded by Tunbridge Wells resident Fran Boorman, has launched this initiative in partnership with the National Citizen Service (NCS), bringing Goal 17’s proven, life-changing programme to the county for the first time.
The mentoring scheme empowers young people to overcome challenges while offering local residents the chance to create meaningful change in their own communities.
Adults from Tunbridge Wells and Kent are invited to join the programme as volunteer mentors, enjoying networking and training opportunities, as well as an unforgettable experience working with a local young person.
“This is an incredible opportunity to give back and be a part of something truly meaningful. The connections we build with these young people are life-changing, not just for them but for us as mentors, too,” said Rachel Newell, a current Goal 17 mentor.
AN AWARD-WINNING INITIATIVE
The announcement follows a momentous month for Goal 17, during which the organisation received two of the most prestigious awards in the UK and Europe for social impact.
At the European Diversity Awards, Goal 17 was recognised as one of the top Social Mobility Initiatives of the Year. Shortly after, the team was honoured with the John Caudwell Award at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, celebrating their unique ability to combine entrepreneurship with meaningful social change.
“This is an incredible opportunity to give back” “ ”
emotional milestone for Fran. The organisation has grown from its roots in Tunbridge Wells into a nationally acclaimed leader in mentoring delivering programmes for The Department
Goal 17 provides an effective model for how the intersection of private, public, and third sectors can work successfully
people—they help them see what’s possible, even when the odds feel stacked against them.”
How the community can get involved Goal 17 is calling on schools, community organisations, and businesses across Kent to support the new mentoring programme. By referring young people or encouraging staff and members to volunteer as mentors, the community can help ensure the programme’s success.
Becoming a mentor requires just a few hours a month, but the impact lasts a lifetime. Volunteers receive university-certified training through Goal 17’s partnership with Oxford Brookes University, ensuring they are fully equipped to guide and inspire.
“Fran has identified a social need and a business need, then combined the two to establish a truly impressive purpose-led enterprise,” said John Caudwell, billionaire and philanthropist. “Goal 17 provides an effective model for how the intersection of private, public, and third sectors can work successfully.”
This local launch in Kent marks an
of Education, Mayor of London and many Local Authorities alongside large companies across the UK.
Goal 17’s mission is simple but powerful: to transform the lives of disadvantaged young people through mentoring. By pairing young people with fully trained volunteer mentors, the organisation will provide a six-session programme as part of this scheme that equips participants with the tools to overcome challenges and thrive.
“This is about creating connections that inspire change,” says Fran Boorman. “Our mentors don’t just support young
“Our mentors often tell us they gain as much as they give,” continues Fran. “It’s a chance to make a real difference while growing personally and professionally.”
BE PART OF THE CHANGE
As Goal 17 launches in Kent, the organisation is inviting local residents and organisations to join the movement. Whether it’s mentoring a young person or helping spread the word, every action contributes to building brighter futures.
To learn more or sign up as a mentor, visit www.goal17.global. Together, we can transform lives, inspire communities, and create lasting social change.
An award-winning night
The Tunbridge Wells Business Awards by the TN card took place at Trinity Theatre on 26th November and Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine was proud to support the awards as its media sponsor. The evening was hosted by Jess Gibson of the TN card and compered by Victoria Sampson of CooperBurnett Solicitors. Nick Moore of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine presented two awards - Employer of the Year and Members’ Choice Award. The event was a sell-out and raised £6450 for Tunbridge Wells charities Trinity, amplifi and West Kent Mind.
Images by Mollie Manning
Hair & Beauty Business Award Sponsored by The Gallery
WINNER: Serenity Therapies
RUNNER-UP: Natasha Hodges Hair
Health & Wellbeing Business Award Sponsored by Benenden Hospital
WINNER: TWPT
RUNNER-UP: The Spring Rooms
Creative Business Award Sponsored by Big Orange Media
We are passionate about two things at Amora Care: Empowering older adults to live independently at home, and looking after our staff like no other company. So it is a great honour to be awarded Employer Of The Year at the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards.
Small Business of the Year Sponsored by NetVector IT Services
Large Business of the Year Sponsored by Chilliapple
WINNER: TN Recruits
RUNNER-UP: Berry & Lamberts Solicitors
“We
try to offer something for everyone”
Maybugs is an award-winning, independent giftware business which boasts three stores across East Sussex and has just opened its fourth one here in Tunbridge Wells. Eileen Leahy meets its founders Greg Rose and John Dale at their new Chapel Place premises to discover more about what makes Maybugs such a unique retail offering…
The British High Street has had to face myriad challenges over the past decade or so – with Covid, extortionate rates and cheap online competition being the most destructive. As a result, there has been a seismic shift in how it looks with many independent shops being forced to close.
But there is one new local retailer which appears to be rewriting the narrative thanks to its special ethos and innovative approach to doing business.
I’m talking about Maybugs which has just opened in Chapel Place and has already proved to be a very welcome addition to this picturesque part of Tunbridge Wells.
On entering the premises in order to meet Maybugs’ founders Greg Rose and John Dale, I squeeze past two women who are giggling loudly at one particular humorous birthday card they have spotted in the shop’s vast selection. Elsewhere in the bijou boutique there’s
a mother and her daughter who are cooing at the glittering Christmas treeshaped lamps on display, while a couple are deciding whether they should go for
” “
We
only opened last month but we are so happy to be here, everyone has been so welcoming
a packet of Gin and Tonic gourmet Joe & Sephsw popcorn or a pot of Bloody Mary relish for a gourmet friend. So, if you’re still on the hunt for Christmas gifts this is
definitely the place to come…
“We try to offer something for everyone,” says Greg, Maybugs’ Managing Director as we shake hands and edge by a customer who is browsing an exquisite selection of Carrie Elspeth handmade jewellery.
Greg, who set up the business with his partner John back in 2018 and named it after the infamous scarab beetle, tells me that they had been looking for the right location in Tunbridge Wells for the last two years and are delighted with what biding their time has afforded them.
“We only opened last month but we are so happy to be here,” smiles John who is Maybugs’ Sales Director. “Everyone has been so welcoming and we’ve even had customers from our other shops coming up to Tunbridge Wells to visit us. We’ve always had Tunbridge Wells in our sights. We regularly shop and socialise in the town, and we know the locals are going to love what we have to offer, as what we
do is very different to any other retailer in the town.”
To think the couple, who live in Crowborough, has achieved four shops and a thriving online business in just six years is nothing short of phenomenalespecially when you take into account a pandemic-shaped curve ball was thrown into the mix.
“We launched our first shop in Hailsham in 2018 and when Covid hit we had to pivot, so I built a website,” explains Greg before adding in the same breath that he had never done anything like that before.
But what he lacked in technical expertise back then, he has more than made up for in knowing what his customers want, thanks to his life-long career in retail.
“I have worked in the sector for years so I knew we had to be different to all the other gift shops out there.”
Having worked for the likes of Selfridges, Robert Dyas and Matalan, Greg certainly knows the industry inside out. So what made him want to launch a business of his own with John?
“We were sitting outside in our garden and chatting and eventually
the conversation turned to whether we wanted to work for other people. We were both very successful in our careers but felt there was something else we could do together.”
Greg says that over the next few months, the conversation continued and the idea of launching a unique gift shop was born.
“We knew we wanted a combination of some of the biggest giftware brands such as Emma Bridgewater, Wrendale Designs and Alex Clark, as they would drive the footfall but we also wanted to work with local artisans who were making unique pieces.
“You couldn’t sell just those types of products because in reality they are more
“
We knew we wanted a combination of some of the biggest heritage giftware brands but to also work with local artisans who were making unique pieces
expensive to retail, and you wouldn’t sell enough of them to make it a successful business. So, by having them side by side with our hand-picked heritage brands, the majority of which are British, is our USP.
“Most gift shop chains or garden centres wouldn’t waste their time with local independent makers as they are ultimately not going to make them money, but we enjoy this element of our
”
WHAT’S IN A NAME? WHY WE ARE CALLED MAYBUGS:
“Since moving from London to the countryside in East Sussex, we have overcome some of our biggest phobias: spiders as big as your hand, useless internet, phone signal and not being able to get a takeaway delivered!
However, these have now been replaced by a new fear, the onslaught of the Maybugs!
Early in spring, these flying beetles emerge at dusk, and fly around without intent, bouncing off every surface and sticking to you like glue. Also known as a Cockchafer or a Doodlebug, the Maybug is a super cute looking creature with big eyes and long antenna, but don’t be fooled by their attractive appearance, when they take flight, they are terrifying.”
business as we get to mentor many of our chosen small brands and help them navigate the often complex world of retail. A lot of the time we have to guide them with certain things such as barcodes and safety certificates.”
John adds that a good example of this is a company called The Bourne Candle, which is run by two guys from Eastbourne who make the candles in their kitchen.
“We have helped them achieve all the standards they need which includes things like fire regulations, and the correct labelling in order to be sold in shops. It’s fine if you are selling on a little craft stall but not in a shop environment. We aim to help springboard those types
Photography by David Bartholomew
businesses.”
After opening the Hailsham store, the next Maybugs opened in Eastbourne in 2021, with another in Bexhill coming along in 2022. So, how do Greg and John pick each location?
“The first question is always is there a really good gift shop in the area,” says Greg. “But we also do extensive research by visiting the towns.”
Once up and running, the partners’ commitment to each shop means they are visible in every location at least once or twice a week. And they tell me that customers really like this.
“They love it when we are in store as they can have a chat with us,” reveals John, who worked in customer services for Post Office Counters for nearly three decades.
“People just love touching and looking at things and having a conversationwhich of course you just don’t get with online shopping. We truly believe that a shop like ours is a valuable addition to the High Street.” It’s no wonder the business’ tagline is ‘Beautiful things for fabulous people’.
Another key element to Maybugs’ success is the clever vision of selling and supporting a combination of established, UK and fledgling brands.
People just love looking at things and having a conversation - which you don’t get online. A shop like ours is a valuable addition to the High Street
permanent stalls up there,” adds Greg. “Some people come for two weeks, others for two months. It fits perfectly with our ethos of what we do – and how we aim to help others. The artisan market won us The High Street Hero award at the Small Awards, sponsored by Business Britain and also the Retailer Initiative at The Greats awards earlier this year.” It is the third year in a row that Maybugs have won at this particular event.
In addition to the success of the shops, each of which sells different products and has its own character, the website that Greg built during lockdown has gone
“In our Eastbourne store we actually have an artisan market located on the first floor,” says Greg. “Originally we were using it for keeping our stock but we thought ‘what can we do with it?’ So we opened it up and invited people who make their own products to come and have a pitch. It’s open five days a week and is completely free because we don’t charge people to come along. There’s everything you can think of there – from paintings and knitted toys to cards, candles and jewellery.”
“At the moment we’ve got about 25
MAYBUGS POPULAR BRANDS:
ALICE WHEELER
CARRIE ELSPETH
FOX UNDER THE MOON INIS
JOE & SEPHS
PARK LANE
ROKA
THE TEA SHED
WRENDALE DESIGNS
from strength to strength. It now has its own dedicated web team who are based in Hailsham and does around 500 orders a week.
It’s clear then that whatever Maybugs turns its hand to turns out to be hugely successful. Why do Greg and John think that is?
“We are a gift shop, both online and on the High Street, where you can buy unique products for almost anybody. It could be a work colleague, or an auntie who lives abroad that you rarely see. We have items that you just don’t find everywhere else. It’s quite hard to source what we sell anywhere else as we ensure that we have a really well-curated collection and work very closely with our suppliers,” explains Greg.
“What’s great about what we do is we can change things very easily – there is no six-month waiting list which is what you’d typically find with retailers. We also notice and care about your purchases. We have great relationships with our suppliers and can change stock and react to things really quickly. And we never want that to change. For example, we work closely with Five Dollar Shake, who are based in Hastings, and have a huge selection of cards including bespoke ones, so if someone wants to mention Tunbridge Wells or a loved one on a greeting card they can.”
There are always offers running in store such as the 10% off next purchase and a special gift if you spend £30 or more. What better incentive to get you through the door and have a good look around this treasure trove of really fascinating finds which range from signs saying ‘I live in the posh part of Tunbridge Wells’ to beautifully illustrated children’s books to help them through a bereavement. It really is a very diverse collection but one that’s been thought of with palpable passion. Another thing to note is that Greg and John are not running Maybugs purely for profit – a refreshing change to how retail businesses are traditionally perceived. Instead they want to give back in each of the towns they have shops in.
“
Community is everything to us. We support a number of events and charities in Hailsham, Eastbourne and Bexhill and are looking to do the same here in Tunbridge Wells
”
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John and Greg at the
“Community is everything to us,” states John. “We already champion initiatives in our other towns, supporting a number of events and charities in Hailsham, Eastbourne and Bexhill, and now we are looking to do the same here in Tunbridge Wells too.
“We obviously can’t support everything but we do want people to get in touch if they think we can help.”
Greg goes on to say they have already donated to a number of Christmas raffles since they opened in Tunbridge Wells, but what they would like to do is find one community-based project they can support. In Eastbourne it was Pride, in Hailsham the pair sponsored the girls’ hockey team while in Bexhill they do a charity calendar every year for children
with life-limiting conditions. But the benevolence doesn’t stop there as Greg and John also work closely with a number of local MPs in East Sussex on their charitable projects.
“For Tunbridge Wells we want to find the right project that fits with us and enables us to say to people ‘if you shop with us then some of that profit is going to be invested back into the local community’. We’re not just here for a couple of years – we have signed a ten-year lease on the Chapel Place shop so that shows we are committed,” states Greg. “For Maybugs to be expanding out of our Sussex base into Kent is a huge milestone for us, and a sign of our ambitious opening programme to expand the Maybugs brand and ethos over the next few years.”
And with that our time is up. It’s been a really great morning chatting to both Greg and John and learning all about Maybugs. We wish them every success with their venture – Tunbridge Wells is most definitely a richer place for having their beautiful boutique in it.
‘Small Awards’ sponsored by Small Business Britain
“Align your visions with your goals”
RTW Media Group (RTWMG) is a local networking organisation for those working in advertising, PR, TV, radio and social and digital media. In its column for this month RTWMG member, Gary Brindley of Step3 Digital, explains how to brief your web developer on building a small business website…
Back in September one of our Royal Tunbridge Wells Media Group members talked about going pro or DIY when it comes to building your own company website. This month, I thought it might be helpful to further explain some of the benefits if you decide to 'go pro'...
Ensuring a website project is fully understood before starting work should not rest solely at the feet of the client. A well-defined, robust discovery process will eventually define the requirements of the project no matter how little preparation the client has done. But, ultimately, making life harder for your developers will make life harder for you, so being
prepared can go a long way to getting the best outcome in the shortest time. Here are a few things to consider… Firstly, what should you include in your brief? I frequently see in initial meetings with clients, a focus on visual design, colour, typography, layout, and so on. Don’t get me wrong, understanding how we will work with the visual identity can’t be ignored, but it’s far too often an easy distraction, to avoid the important work of understanding the purpose of the website and how it will achieve its goals.
So, first and foremost, clearly define your objectives. What do you want your website to achieve? Whether it’s increasing sales, generating leads, or enhancing brand awareness, having a clear goal will shape the entire project. Establish a timeline and budget to set realistic expectations for everyone involved.
Telling your developer what budget you have can seriously help define how the project will run so don’t try to play your cards close to your chest. Outline your target audience.
Understanding who you’re speaking to is crucial for developing engaging content (if that is part of the scope of the project) and a user-friendly design.
Include demographic details such as age, gender, location, and interests to provide clarity. The scope of work. Defining the structure of the website should be a collaborative process (such as a homepage, an about us section, what services you offer and contact details etc).
Alerting your developer to any specific functionalities required like e-commerce capabilities or client login areas from the start will save everyone a lot of time. A business website is more than a facade- it is the hub of your marketing, and so the project may well involve other pieces of work. For example, photography and copywriting. You may have resources internally who can handle this work, but don’t dismiss the work as unnecessary or unimportant. Good content can be just as important as the most eye-catching visual design, particularly when visitors reach
Alerting your developer to any specific functionalities required like e-commerce capabilities or client login areas from the start will save everyone a lot of time
” “
the end of the funnel- where you want them to take action.
By considering these key points when writing your website brief, you’ll create a solid foundation that not only streamlines the development process but also ensures that the final product aligns with your vision and goals.
Gary Brindley is founder of Step3 Digital, a team of WordPress web designers and developers based in Hadlow, Kent. Step3 helps ambitious businesses thrive online with websites that pack a punch, websites that are informed by human behaviours to attract, engage and convert.
Contact Gary Brindley via email: gary.brindley@step3.digital or via the Step3 Digital website www.step3.digital
“The
big battle for talent is on its way”
If you're planning to recruit at the start of 2025, the time to act is now says TN Recruits founder and Managing Director Neil Simmons…
December is often referred to as the ‘silly season,’ a time filled with Christmas parties, holidays, and a general winding down in business as the year draws to a close. In many ways, December feels like the Friday afternoon of the calendar year.
However, January marks a pivotal time
This annual ‘New Year, New Career’ mindset fuels a frenzy in the employment market ” “
for recruitment - a spike in activity driven by several factors. Many organisations delay their growth plans until the New Year, either due to the distractions of
the festive season or the restart of budgets and projects in January. This creates a surge in recruitment activity as businesses scramble to execute their plans.
From a candidate's perspective, the New Year is synonymous with fresh starts and resolutions. Alongside health goals and commitments to ‘Dry January’, many professionals seize the moment to make significant life changes, including pursuing new career opportunities.
holiday—you'll be stuck in the crowd, facing unnecessary delays.
This annual ‘New Year, New Career’ mindset fuels a frenzy in the employment market, with job search activity in the UK typically increasing by over 55% between December and January.
If you're planning to recruit at the start of 2025, the time to act is now. Waiting until January, when everyone else is competing for talent, is akin to setting off on a road trip at 10 am on a bank
At TN Recruits, we make recruitment straightforward. With access to a pool of over 30,000 local candidates and a proactive approach that utilises 30+ methods to attract fresh talent, we help businesses save time, cut costs, and fuel growth. Contact us today to gain an early advantage in securing top-tier talent for your team and set the stage for a successful 2025.
What role should AI play in your marketing and PR strategy in 2025?
AI is increasingly sophisticated – but consumers are becoming similarly canny at detecting robo-content. The managing director of Sharp Minds Communications, Siobhan Stirling, considers where AI can be used most effectively to boost your marketing and PR strategy, without losing the human touch for your audience.
AI may be a buzzword, but before you outsource all your content creation to ChatGPT, it’s worth evaluating how the technology can meet your specific business needs most efficiently, and where it might do more harm than good.
AI as a co-pilot
Consider media monitoring tools. They can sift through vast amounts of data to comb for relevant media mentions and sentiment analysis. However, it is up to the human analyst to interpret this data, understand its implications, and decide on the next steps.
AI as a muse
Think of AI as your brainstorming buddy. It provides insights, thought starters and first drafts that can spark ideas, but the human drives the strategy and execution. Imagine you’re working on a research report, and you use AI to summarise a long media article. It may help you identify emerging narratives quicker and give you a starting point, but crafting the report remains in your hands.
AI as a tool
In this scenario, AI operates with minimal human intervention. It’s set up to handle specific
tasks autonomously based on your parameters. For example, an automated system could automatically optimise your corporate website for search engines by deploying the best-practice SEO advice without human input. Finding the happy medium is key. While using AI can reduce costs and increase efficiencies, it can also cause disconnect; unlike human intelligence, it lacks original thought, so its creative capabilities are limited. One thing’s for sure, if you don’t start to embrace it on some level, there is a chance your business will fall behind.
MEET THE EXPERT
Siobhan Stirling is the founder and Managing Director of Sharp Minds Communications, a multi-awardwinning marketing and PR agency that provides intelligent communication with power and purpose to help its clients punch above their weight.
Striking the right chord
By day, Paul Reader is Managing Partner of Berry & Lamberts solicitors. But by night, he transforms into a guitar guru. Here he talks to Nicola Withers about how he balances his professional legal work with his passion for music…
Paul, law and rock music aren’t the most obvious of bedfellows. Tell us how your two worlds combine…
When you have two elements of your life that you love, making them work together becomes easy. I’ve been at Berry & Lamberts for 26 years, starting as a trainee and now find myself six years into my role as Managing Partner. But ages before that, I got the guitar bug from my dad and since then music and playing guitar have been how I switch off from the rest. We have seen a lot of change, both at Berry & Lamberts and in the way the business world operates. So to have the constant of playing and performing music is a real leveller.
Are there any similarities between running a law practice and being in a band?
As a firm, we are committed to supporting our local community and being seen as approachable and friendly. Tunbridge Wells is a brilliant town for bringing people together, running events for everyone to enjoy. One of the cords running through those events is music – from Local & Live in the summer, to gigs at The Forum, to free music in so many of our pubs. And I’m lucky to have been involved in all three of those with the band.
Can you tell us a bit about the band?
We’re Kharma and the Devil, a small but (im)perfectly formed trio – John Moss on bass and vocals, Tim Carter on drums and vocals and me on lead guitar. We’ve been together for 12 years. The name came from a misspelled and misheard lyric from the Weight by the Band. We’re known as a covers band (1960s, 70s and 90s) but when we got a spot on the Local & Live main stage in the summer, we wrote and performed a set of our own songs. We’ve also just played that set plus more new songs at the Grey Lady. But we still love our covers too.
What do you enjoy most about your role at Berry & Lamberts?
Without a doubt it’s the people. We’ve got a brilliant team and work hard to keep everyone engaged and included.
The more we pull in the same direction, the better we are. We always focus on giving the best and most fair and transparent service to our clients. 2024 has been a great year for us, topped off by our recent wins as ‘Larger Business of the Year' in the Sevenoaks
Business Awards and ‘LawNet Law Firm of the Year, up to £6m turnover’, as well as a finalist in the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards.
And now the same question about why you enjoy being part of Kharma and the Devil?
Well, it’s the same answer: it’s the people. John and Tim are the best bandmates and we have brilliant times together. Beyond the band, the music community in Tunbridge Wells is fabulous, so supportive of each other and up-andcoming talent. We’re regulars at jam nights at The Royal Oak, and as well as putting on gigs there we also play The Brickworks and The Beau Nash. Last year I organised a Pearl Jam evening with some of our other local musicians and getting everyone together for that was really special.
What’s next for both?
At Berry’s, we’re focusing on doing more of the same. And likewise with Kharma. The music provides a creative outlet, the perfect balance to a day of managing people and practicing law.
Visit Berry and Lamberts at berryandlamberts.co.uk and follow Kharma and the Devil on Facebook, @ KharmaAndTheDevil.
Image: Mimi Van Praagh
2024 Round Up
As we reach the end of 2024, we’ve been reflecting on the many employment-related changes that have occurred this year, with some representing significant legislative updates for many years.
In case you missed it, here’s a summary of what some of those key changes include.
Holiday: Changes were made to the methods of calculating holiday entitlement and pay.
Carer’s Leave: Employees were granted a day-one right to carer’s leave of one week’s unpaid leave.
Flexible Working: Employees gained the right to request flexible working from their first day of employment, with up to 2 requests in a 12 month period.
Paternity Leave: Adjustments were made to paternity leave, with parents being able to take their two-week paternity leave as two separate oneweek blocks.
Protection Against Redundancy: Employees taking family leave will now have greater protection. From the point they tell their employer they intend to take leave, to 18 months after.
Equality Act: Strengthened protections were introduced for individuals under the Equality Act 2010.
Illegal Employment: Increased penalties for employing illegal workers.
TUPE Consultations: Updates were made to TUPE consultation rules.
Sexual Harassment: A new legal duty was introduced which requires Employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent workplace sexual harassment.
Employer National Insurance: Rates will increase by 1.2%, and the threshold for paying employer NI will reduce
to £5,000. The annual employment allowance will also rise to £10,500.
The changes don’t stop here with more set to come in next year and beyond. We understand that small businesses may feel overwhelmed with these changes, and staying up to date can be a challenge.
At Forrest Group, our team are on hand to support you navigate these changes, with simple and straight forward guidance, leaving you to focus on your business.
Architects of pioneering design and development
Caswell&Dainow is a boutique property development company which believes innovative design can make even the trickiest of sites work. Eileen Leahy talks to the firm’s founders Adam Dainow and Charlie Caswell about the revolutionary work the pair have become known for since being established in 2017 – and why they are looking to expand their impressive portfolio here in Tunbridge Wells
Adam and Charlie, you met at Sheffield uni. Did you know you were always going to eventually work together?
We were close friends at uni, and I think we both knew we saw architecture a bit differently from our peers. We were as interested in the business side of architecture as we were in aesthetics or theory. We shared a few key milestones as well, like stepping onto the property ladder in Sheffield and then buying a house together when we moved to London a few years later. Those early experiences really shaped the idea and trajectory of what’s now Caswell&Dainow.
How would you describe your style of architectural practice and approach to design?
We see ourselves as developers who studied architecture rather than architects who do development. One of the most inspiring parts of our job is appointing external architects to each project. The choice is informed by the location, scale of the project, and surrounding context. Instead of a ‘house style,’ we aim for a ‘house quality’ that responds to each site’s unique opportunities.
Can you explain the difference of working client side as opposed to being a traditional architect?
Setting up Caswell&Dainow and going ‘client side’ lets us design buildings we’re passionate about. Although we both had great jobs running architectural practices, ultimately our output was defined by our clients, not us. We both love complex, smaller sites and enjoy collaborating directly with landowners to sensitively unlock their land’s potential. We didn’t want to sit in the office waiting for the phone to ring.
Tell us more about your pioneering work in the world of development and if this is becoming an industry trend… Our mission is to use great architecture to unlock complex urban and suburban sites. This is what we call ‘urban acupuncture’, and we aim to create homes within established communities,
We both love complex, smaller sites and enjoy collaborating directly with landowners to sensitively unlock their land’s potential
”avoiding green belt sprawl and identikit car-dependant developments. We’re not alone in this, but with our architectural background, we like to think few care as much as we do about the quality of the end result. Though we currently have a pro-building government, there are still
considerable challenges in our work. We’d like to see more support for the planning system and more progressive policies at a national level to encourage others to join this cause.
Can you tell us about your connection to Tunbridge Wells?
We started in London, but Tunbridge Wells was our first step outside the capital because we have staff based there and know it’s a great area with lots of untapped potential. That local knowledge has been really important to landowners who we speak with in the area. We now have a beautiful house in planning in Langton Green and hope to sign more projects in the area in the coming months.
In what other ways do you ensure you stand out from the crowd?
Caswell&Dainow isn’t a big company, so each project is really important to us. We want to set a new standard with every site, hoping that our attention to detail and commitment to quality make us stand out.
Do you have a typical client and if so, who are they?
Meeting landowners is a really enjoyable
Adam and Charlie
INNOVATIVE IDEAS: Caswell&Dainow’s new Greenwich development
part of the job. Our clients are as unique as their sites, though we do see common threads. Many are homeowners with large gardens they no longer use now the children have flown the nest; others are in their later years who love gardening but now want to scale down the upkeep. We help them unlock value in underutilised parts of their land, developing eco-friendly housing. An added bonus is that the cash we offer is usually tax-free if it’s their main residence.
What are the challenges involved with what you do?
Planning is the primary challenge, as there are many conflicting policies and councils are chronically underfunded, making engagement difficult. Recent
legislation, particularly around biodiversity, is well intentioned, but ineffective and prohibitively expensive on small schemes. Rising costs of labour, materials, and borrowing post-pandemic also mean we have to tailor our search areas to where we can still afford to invest in good design.
What are the benefits of what you do?
We love what we do and feel very grateful there is a tangible result to our work. With the pressing need for more housing, we aim to show how small sites can deliver high-quality, architecturally led homes within existing communities. All our developments are environmentally conscious, and many are car-free. We’re also in planning for a cluster of six houses in Greenwich around a communal garden, with play spaces, and an allotment.
We’re really proud of the scheme, which demonstrates our belief that good design creates healthy spaces that can bring families and communities together.
How many is in your team and what does everyone bring to the table?
Our team has five people, who each work in a different aspect of the business. Besides Adam and me, Sam is a qualified architect based in Tunbridge Wells who heads our out-of-London searches. Mel oversees operations, managing our letter-sending process. Finally, Hugh is our
Marketing Department
resident wordsmith—a qualified architect who heads our press and PR.
What are your plans for 2025? 2024 has been a great year, so we’re looking to keep the momentum and sign more projects in Tunbridge Wells, across the South East, and beyond. Thankfully the market seems to be in a good position, so we feel it’s a really good time for landowners to consider starting their development projects, hopefully with us. We always offer a no-obligation chat to landowners and are happy to pop by to discuss the potential of their land.
Web: www.caswellanddainow.com
Socials: @caswellanddainow
Retro Revival
The TN card is the loyalty card that rewards our community for supporting local at over 900 independents across Tunbridge Wells and the TN postcodes. This month, Founder Jess Gibson chats to Phil Dowsing and Lewis Dowsing - father and son duo at gift and collectables shop Retro Stuff in Royal Victoria Place…
Phil and Lewis, you’ve recently celebrated ten years of Retro Stuff! Where did the story begin?
Phil was a retail Marketing & Creative manager and began Retro Stuff in 2013, initially trading from a garage after winning a 2015 ‘new retail business concept’ competition. We began Mall trading in Chatham, followed by retail merchandising units in Dartford and Maidstone, before moving to Tunbridge Wells in 2022. Since then we have attracted a loyal following of customers here who love our products.
What do you sell at Retro Stuff?
‘Something for Everyone’ is our motto, showcasing British and American pop culture with a retro slant. We bring quirky gifts and collectables that you wouldn’t normally find on the High Street to the general public at affordable price and we really focus on personal customer service, which is something totally lacking in today’s online shopping world.
What is it like running a business together as family?
It makes for a more enjoyable working environment, with what you know to be real vested support from one another and a better understanding of how each person works.
What are your best sellers this Christmas?
Good question. There’s a wide range but the top would be our themed frames posters, gift sets, cushions, and our recent new selection of vintage transport construction kits.
How are you finding trading in Tunbridge Wells?
There are so many factors at play here, e.g. the weather, the time of the week and month. In fact no day is the same, and you can never guess what each day will bring.
What makes Retro Stuff special?
It’s about giving a traditional personal
service which our customers love. Things in this modern age have become too complicated and automated, which can be a problem for our older customers. People miss personal service, and at Retro Stuff, you can actually call and speak with us – there are no robots here!
” “
We bring quirky gifts and collectables that you wouldn’t normally find on the High Street to the general public at affordable prices and we really focus on personal customer service
What are your plans for Retro Stuff in 2025?
We’re looking forward to organic growth and more exciting, unique products, reflecting what people want. A possible expansion of our family run independent retail business too.
Thank you being part of the TN card. Why is it important to support local?
Big retail chains don’t care or even notice your purchases, you mean nothing to them but profit. Buying from a local independent that does care makes all the difference. So many of our customers have said how much they love us and why there needs to be more varied independents such as us. The High Street is still recovering from the effects of online shopping, Covid 19, out of town supermarkets etc., and many retailers are still closing. What would life become with no High Streets to visit? A big thank you to all our amazing customers, we never forget that we wouldn’t be here without you.
TN card members: Receive 10% off fullprice purchases in store at Retro Stuff.
Jess Gibson
Current Vacancies
Front of House/Receptionist
Tunbridge Wells
£25,000
Central T Wells
Monday to Friday
Progression available!
The opportunity to be creative with social media and marketing!
Applications: jo@tnrecruits.com
Vehicle Technician
Tunbridge Wells
£35,000
Monday to Friday ONLY. Pension. Bonus package. Healthcare. Car benefit scheme.
Minimum of 30 days holiday . Applications: ben@tnrecruits.com
Car Sales Executive
Tunbridge Wells
OTE £45,000+
Competitive Salary and bonus. Full and bespoke Training. Training to becoming a VW accredited Company car.
Working in a forward-thinking and friendly team. Working for a new brand of car.
Applications: melissa@tnrecruits.com
Private Client/Probate Solicitor
Tunbridge Wells
Circa £65,000
A leading private client team in the Southeast. Hybrid working. Generous bonus scheme. Career Pathway
Applications: emma@tnrecruits.com
Experienced Recruiter/Sales Person (2+ years experience)
Tunbridge Wells
£28,000 - £35,000 + Monthly Commission
Quarterly bonus
Annual Bonus
4-day working week, uncapped commission, free parking.
Applications: ellie@tnrecruits.com
Letting Coordinator/Property manager
Tunbridge Wells
Up to £30,000
Varied role offering opportunity to deal with residential lettings and property management. Monday-Friday role Independent business with close team environment Professional development and training opportunities.
Applications: will@tnrecruits.com
“People see us as a safe friend and are very welcoming”
For this month’s Community Heroes feature, Sarah Raine spends a Friday night on the streets of Tunbridge Wells with some of the TW Street Pastors team to learn more about their work…
The Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors, launched in January 2010, consists of volunteers from 20 local churches, supporting people of all faiths and none. This inter-denominational group responds to urban problems, with the Street Pastors patrolling the town centre three times a month, from 10 PM to 1 AM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The Street Pastors are part of the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership and are endorsed by TWBC and Kent Police. They are managed by a part-time paid co-ordinator, Johnny Daniell, and supported by a board of trustees.
Sarah spent time in Tunbridge Wells on Friday 29 November patrolling with three fantastic volunteers: Katy, Mark and Colin. During the walk, a young woman stopped to thank the team for the support they gave her when she was 18, and to let them know her life was now on track.
How long have you been TW street pastors?
Mark: Katy and I have been here since the start in 2010, and Colin for the past eight years.
Do you approach people in need or wait for them to approach you?
Katy: Our role is very much as a social and supportive presence, we will say hello to people we encounter, but we are very much led by them. If they want to engage with us, then we will stay and have a chat. We don’t talk about our faith unless someone specifically asks us, most of our conversations are about how they are, what’s happened that evening and making them feel at ease.
Do people welcome your presence?
How do you signpost for help if you aren’t qualified to deal with a situation?
Katy: We have great relationships with everyone working within the nighttime economy, who are all committed to keeping Tunbridge Wells safe, including door staff at the bars and clubs, as well as the security, rail and police teams. It’s a collaborative effort, when we see that a situation needs escalating we will use our Safe Town radio to request help from
The Street Pastor’s role is very much as a social and supportive presence, we will say hello to people we encounter wherever we are in the town, but we are very much led by them.
the experts, likewise they may call us to an incident to offer additional support. As we are always a mixed female and male group, we are often called to be a female support in lone-female incidents.
young people think the Street Pastors keep them safer than initiatives like ‘Ask Angela’. (A safe word initiative to identify vulnerable women who need help to staff in bars or clubs).
I have heard lovely stories of small gestures the team make to support people. Tell me more?
Colin: We carry a backpack with foil blankets, flip flops, a first aid kit and a dustpan and brush to clear up any broken glass. However, the greatest bit of our role is lollipop distribution! Sometimes that can help calm someone down while they talk out what is going on for them.
What one incident had the most impact on you?
Katy: A while ago, we helped a young lady, not sure if her drink was spiked or she’d taken drugs. Two friends, who noticed she was acting unusually, asked for our help. While helping her into her grandparent’s car to go home, she ran off. Mark followed her to the train station, where she had been stopped from going on the tracks by an off duty Met. Police officer.
Working with the station staff, we helped restrain her whilst the tracks were made safe and called the emergency services to attend. We supported the grandparents whilst being the contact point for the ambulance, who eventually got her safely to hospital. The Prayer Pastors, back at base, supported and prayed for us all throughout the whole situation.
How can people support TW Street Pastors?
Colin: We are constantly really pleased by the reaction people have to the street pastors, especially the younger generation. They see us as a safe friend and are very welcoming.
What are the common issues that people face?
Mark: Many focus around friendship issues, mental health, depression and homelessness, often exacerbated by excessive drinking or taking drugs.
People perhaps think of Tunbridge Wells as an affluent area that wouldn’t have many issues, What do you think?
Mark: The issues we face in Tunbridge Wells are happening all over the UK, affluence isn’t a factor. We see people getting separated from friends, a drink being spiked, missing their transport home, getting aggressive when trying to use fake ID to enter bars & clubs and occasionally suicide attempts. Somebody at the Safe Town Partnership told us that
Katy: We would love to hear from anyone interested in becoming a TW Street Pastor! You must be a Christian and we recommend you come and try it out first as an observer. Following an application form and interview process, we offer comprehensive training and DBS checks. We couldn’t do what we do without donations, so if you can help please visit www.streetpastors.org/locations/ tunbridgewells/get-involved/donate/
Hello business community
My name is Miles and I run the commercial Permanent and Temp Teams here at Recruitment Solutions, having worked here as a student throughout my school holidays, I knew recruitment was where I wanted to base my career and here I am 5 years later!
What do I like most about recruitment?
Simply put, it’s the satisfaction of a client company recruiting the person they need for their business or team.
My passion is a simple one to help local companies recruit local people and thereby help the local business community thrive and build, and for them to want to use us as there first choice time and again. Here in our centrally located Tunbridge Wells office we have 4 divisions
Cost effective, and time efficient, allowing you to concentrate on the key aspects of driving your business safe in the knowledge that we are working proactively to meet your needs.
TEMPORARY RECRUITMENT
A touch of a button solution to covering unexpected or planned absence, peak workflows, holidays, vacancies or special projects.
Cost and time effective as 1 call to us will mobilise our service to provide you with the person you need for a few hours or longer term, where you control the costs by only paying for the hours worked, whilst we take care of all employment obligations, providing you with one invoice to settle on a weekly basis
bought ledger person, credit controller or all round accounts person, for both permanent, temporary and contract positions. 1 call to us, allows us to agree the brief and shortlist the options for you to consider within the hour
LEGAL RECRUITMENT
Delivering recruitment solutions to firms throughout the area and further afield, including all levels of fee earning and support staff. Al roles handled with the utmost sensitivity, proactivity and confidentiality to access the talent you need for your practice to thrive, be it a permanent role, fixed term contract or temp support.
Whatever your needs, we are here to help!
PERMANENT RECRUITMENT
A simple straightforward service designed to save you time, and money, giving you access to the best candidates the area can offer, with the added protection of our failsafe guarantee.
ACCOUNTS AND FINANCE RECRUITMENT
Accessing the areas top talent, for roles in both commerce and practice, from an accounts assistant, book keeper, payroll person, sales ledger person,
In the words of a recent Tunbridge Wells company using us for the first time “ I have been bowled over by your professional approach to helping us recruit to our company, Your knowledge of the candidates enabled us to make a wise choice, and we are delighted”
Specialist law firm achieves Chambers success following recent restructure
INDUSTRY-LEADING, independent law firm, JE Bennett Law, which specialises in Court of Protection, Power of Attorney and Personal Injury Trusts, has been recognised in the Chambers and Partners UK Legal Guide 2025. The firm recently reported a 75% increase in revenue since 2020/21 and an internal restructuring to reflect organic growth in related legal practise areas.
“ JE Bennett's inclusion by Chambers recognises consistently excellent client feedback and industry reputation, alongside a 78% increase in its core business over the last three years "
Founded by Managing Partner Jane Bennett, it has taken JE Bennett Law just 12 years for its sector-leading expertise to be recognised by the Chambers UK Legal Guide for Court of Protection: Property & Affairs (UK-wide). The company has also been ranked in the Legal 500 as a Leading Firm for Court of Protection for the seventh year in a row, with individual rankings for four of the team.
“Winning a place in the Chambers UK Legal Guide 2025 is a tremendous achievement for the whole team. Chambers puts a lot of value on legacy and heritage, so most Court of Protection teams that it recognises are part of longestablished law firms," said Jane.
"For JE Bennett Law to come from
a standing start and achieve this accolade within 12 years of starting out on my own is testimony to the expertise, commitment and positive client outcomes achieved across the team,” comments Jane Bennett, who is one of only six lawyers nationally to make the Legal 500 Hall of Fame for Court of Protection, and has personally been ranked in Chambers since 2018."
Feedback gathered by Chambers in deciding to rank JE Bennett Law includes remarks such as the following:
“The lawyers at JE Bennett are highly knowledgeable in their field and a real pleasure to work with. The service they provide to their clients is excellent.”
“JE Bennett has a team that is highly skilled and passionate about their clients. They handle the most complex cases but remain focused on the clients’ best interests and optimising quality of life.”
“JE Bennett goes the extra mile in terms of supporting clients through what is often a very difficult process and beyond.”
The firm’s inclusion by Chambers recognises consistently excellent client feedback and industry reputation, alongside a 78% increase in its core business of Deputyships over the last three years. “This has been achieved by extending and deepening our referrer network,” explains Jane Bennett. “It’s a mutually beneficial relationship: by
referring to us, our associates – who are largely PI lawyers and insurers – have peace of mind that their clients are being looked after by industry-leading experts who will tenaciously ensure the best longterm outcomes for their clients over the years – and decades – to come.”
The increase in Deputyships has led to an exponential increase in affiliated services, with JE Bennett Law seeing a 257% increase in Probate since 2020/21. Over the same period, the practice has increased its headcount by 61%.
“We now have eight partners and two solicitors; a team of 15 paralegals; a trainee and administration support staff, representing clients across the UK from our headquarters in Tunbridge Wells, Kent,” adds Jane Bennett.“
JE Bennett Law is planning further growth, building on its successful strategy of long-term, successful, collaborative relationships, especially with PI lawyers and insurers.
"I'm extremely grateful to CooperBurnett for facilitating different training routes"
IOLA Cameron has started her training contract at CooperBurnett LLP. She joined the team two years ago as a Paralegal in the Corporate & Commercial department, following successful completion of her Legal Practice Course (LPC) and Master in Laws (LLM) with Distinction, Iola is now accumulating the hours she needs to be formally qualified.
“I’m very happy and grateful to have been given a training contract and feel another step closer to qualifying as a
solicitor,” says Iola. “Even after completing an LPC, there are never any guarantees that you’ll be offered a training contract. I’m extremely grateful to CooperBurnett for facilitating different training routes.”
Victoria Sampson, Partner and Head of Corporate & Commercial adds: “It’s really refreshing that there are different routes to qualifying as a solicitor nowadays and I am proud that, as a firm, we are flexible and forwardthinking to offer our trainees the route
which suits them best. We were thrilled to award Iola a training contract and excited to see her progression towards qualification.”
Iola has three young children and trains flexibly around them. “There are so many brilliant role models here at CooperBurnett, who work flexibly and are excellent lawyers - it’s great to work at a firm which facilitates them in doing that,” she explains. “I appreciate being supported to do the best possible job here.”
JE Bennett Law are based in Linden Close
IOLA CAMERON
Pioneering solicitors celebrate winning a coveted national legal award for their ‘standout’ services
Berry & Lamberts has just received a prestigious LawNet award. Here a spokesperson for the successful local law firm tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine more about it…
BERRY & LAMBERTS Solicitors, are celebrating ‘the power of collaboration and a people-first approach in delivering a standout performance’, after winning the coveted title of LawNet Law Firm of the Year, up to £6m turnover.
“With judging done by a panel of specialists, chaired by legal sector authority Andrew Hedley, LawNet’s annual awards are focused on recognising innovation and strategic success across the network’s SME law firm members,” a spokesperson for the Tunbridge Wellsbased firm told us.
This year, more than 320 delegates joined the annual conference and awards dinner, at The Vox Conference Centre in Birmingham.
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where SME law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
“For Berry & Lamberts, putting people first has proven a successful strategy. To attract and retain staff, the
Cubit Consulting are a wellestablished firm of Chartered Building Surveyors located in the heart of Shoreditch, London EC2A.
Cubit Consulting provides professional services and expert advice to commercial and domestic clients across the UK. Known for its strong market presence, the firm of Chartered Surveyors specialises in Building Surveying (MRICS) and offers a comprehensive range of services. Cubit Consulting prides itself on understanding client requirements and delivering a high quality service, supported by ongoing training and professional development to enhance the quality of its personnel.
firm has compiled a comprehensive benefits package, from mental health to mentorship, and encourages active involvement in the firm’s decision-making processes.
“Embracing the local community as the bedrock of the client base, paired with a strategic drive to increase profitability, is enabling the firm to retain talent and create opportunities within the equity, securing long-term growth,” they added.
Paul Reader, Managing Partner of Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, commented: “I am absolutely delighted to receive this award,
and from such a prestigious group as LawNet, it holds even greater meaning. This has been a true team effort, and that’s where we place our focus — investing in our team. When you support your people, they take care of your clients, and that’s when great things happen.”
Congratulating the winners, LawNet Chief Executive Chris Marston said: “To be a winner at our national awards requires extraordinary performance. By focusing on a human-centric strategy, Berry & Lamberts are redefining what it means to thrive in today’s legal landscape.”
Digital revolution
In his regular column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID reports on the arrival of the new ‘RTW Love Local’ Tunbridge Wells App
RTW Together BID launched the bespoke ‘RTW Love Local’ Tunbridge Wells app in November. The app is a digital town hub platform which puts everything local together in one place. Users can access the latest offers from business in the town centre, view upcoming events, scroll through a searchable business directory and find useful information including local news feeds, transport and weather updates.
The app was launched via a digital advertising and outdoor poster advertising campaign targeting over 200,000 people. There was also a fun launch weekend in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, with performers dressed as mobile phones explaining the app to members of the general public and rewarding them with Christmas chocolate coins once they had taken the few seconds to download the app.
It has had a really positive reception from users, Laura commented: “This app is superb, I use it to check what events are on each week, I went to The Forum the other night because it showed me a gig I liked the look of, and the offers have been a big part of my Christmas shopping plan!”
James, who recently moved to Tunbridge Wells from Surrey said: “We are new to the area and the app has been a one-stop shop for us as a family. I tailored my interests so it shows me familyfriendly events and the offers are brilliant, I also like that it shows you live train and bus times.”
Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID, commented: “We are delighted that more than 1,000 people have downloaded the app already and over 150 businesses have already activated their accounts and have started to promote special offers to users.
“The great thing about the app is the user can completely personalise and limit the number of notifications they receive to suit their lifestyle. Users can choose interests which fit their needs - from food to film, fitness to fashion, beauty to books. What’s more, when someone is walking around the town, users will be able to receive geo alerts from businesses near to them, so they can take advantage of deals and special offers.”
Samantha Cook from Specsavers commented: “I can’t say enough good things about the Love Local app by Tunbridge Wells BID. It’s such an innovative way to connect local businesses with the community. The geo-targeting which reaches the right audiences at the right time and the personalised offers, make it easy to share
The RTW Tunbridge Wells BID app is a digital town hub platform which puts everything local together in one place. Access the latest offers, view upcoming events and get local news feeds, transport and weather updates
our exclusive deals and promotions. If you're in the Tunbridge Wells area and haven’t checked it out yet, you’re missing out!”
Local business owner, Lorraine Marsh from The Diamond Setter added: “The town app is a brilliant way to list my family-owned jewellery business. I love that I can customise the content including special offerings and events. It is a fantastic way of inviting locals to support high street businesses.”
There will also be the opportunity in 2025 for BID members to use ‘Shop Local’, an e-commerce marketplace, which will allow members to sell their goods and services to local residents and visitors through the ‘RTW Love Local’ App.
The developers, Loqiva, are developing this second service to answer the need for online shopping within a local economy. This new marketplace will allow trade exclusively within our local community, where sellers can connect directly with their local buyers. Like a mini-Amazon just for our town.
To download the app, please scan the QR code or visit https://qrfy.io/p/cDzo3DsTfn
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Thank you to all our corporate members:
Achieve Green Belvoir Tunbridge Wells
Berry & Lamberts Solicitors
Big Orange Media
BSR Bespoke Accountants
Chilliapple
Coleman Anderson Architects
CooperBurnett Solicitors Create Balance
Jump IT Recruitment Solutions
Maddisons Residential
NetVector IT Services
NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells
Revive Hairdressing
Simply Luxury Escapes
TN Recruits
Wood and Pilcher
Yoyo Design
info@thetncard.com | @thetncard
Download our app for iOS and Android
Join the green party
Councillor Rob Wormington, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment & Sustainability, talks about how the Council’s Decarbonisation Grant Scheme is helping local businesses embrace green initiatives
Eight local businesses have been awarded grants of up to £2,499 through the Council’s Business Decarbonisation Grant Scheme. This initiative aims to support smallscale projects that reduce carbon footprints and promote sustainability within the business community. The recipient businesses represent a diverse range of sectors, highlighting the widespread desire to adopt sustainable practices across the local economy.
Eight local businesses have been awarded grants of up to £2,499 through Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Business Decarbonisation Grant Scheme
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the scheme has distributed just under £20,000 to successful applicants. The grants are facilitating a variety of green upgrades and changes, including the
installation of energy-efficient LED lighting, the transition to electric-powered tools and appliances, and the implementation of comprehensive carbon footprint reporting systems. When reviewing the applications, I was absolutely amazed by some of the tech that some organisations were looking for funding for, things that will have a huge impact I am sure, and even more so if they are rolled out on a wider scale.
All projects funded are currently in progress, with completion expected by the end of January 2025. We will be monitoring the outcomes of these projects to assess their impact on
carbon reduction and energy efficiency. This information will be valuable in shaping future initiatives and promoting sustainable practices across the wider business community.
It was an absolute delight to support these businesses in their efforts to become more sustainable. These projects demonstrate an amazing commitment from members of our business community and will have a positive impact on our local environment.
It would be wrong of me not to highlight the work that amplifi did in highlighting this grant scheme to their members. amplifi is a Tunbridge Wells based organisation that aims to reduce the noise and confusion around ‘sustainability’ and facilitate ways for businesses, and others, to learn from and support one another. If you are not already a member of amplifi I would recommend looking at their website and seeing if you could benefit from membership https://amplifi.tw
Bringing festive cheer – and financial peace of mind
‘Tis the season for giving…so let The Finance Hub help you safeguard your family legacy says the business’s founder Gillian Palmer
This Christmas, The Finance Hub is embracing the festive spirit like never before –transforming into a magical sparkly grotto! However, it is not just a lovely display to look at! There is more! Families in Tunbridge Wells are in for a treat with fun and creative activities guaranteed to bring festive cheer for all ages. From games to festive crafts, cosy hot chocolate drinks to sparkly photos, there’s something for everyone. We’ve packed this festive experience with enough fun to make your visit to The Finance Hub truly memorable.
It’s the perfect opportunity for families to come out together and share in season’s joy, creating an unforgettable memory which will be cherished for years to come.
As we celebrate the joy of family during this special time, we also understand how precious family is—and how important it is to protect your legacy for future generations.
At The Finance Hub, we’re here to support everyone—especially at this time of year, when financial pressures and
tough decisions can feel overwhelming. We know how challenging it can be for families to navigate monetary dilemmas, especially with the added complexity of recent changes introduced in the Autumn 2024 UK Budget.
These changes, which impact pensions and inheritance tax (IHT), could significantly reduce the wealth families can pass on to future generations. Without proper planning, you may find yourself paying more tax than expected,
diminishing the legacy you’ve worked so hard to build.
That’s why we’re committed to having open, honest conversations and offering clear, tailored advice to help you understand your finances. At The Finance Hub, we specialise in strategies to minimise unnecessary tax, maximise wealth potential, and protect your legacy so your loved ones can benefit for years
Visit us this festive season—and let’s talk! We can help
Discover how to navigate the complexities of AI and technology to
• Streamline operations
• Enhance customer service
• Strengthen your legal and financial frameworks
• Achieve brand growth
If you’re a medium sized business ready to scale, don’t miss this opportunity for valuable knowledge & networking
Reserve your spot now with hello@thefinancehub.money Limited space available and by application only
Leaning Back to Give Back: A Personal Journey to Zambia and Beyond
In the busyness of entrepreneurship, where each day demands relentless pursuit of success, it’s crucial to remember the profound impact of pausing and giving back. As business leaders, we possess unique capabilities and resources that can transform lives - not just within our communities, but globally.
the first time reminded me of the powerful role we entrepreneurs can play beyond our own business ventures.
My own journey of ‘giving back’ includes supporting educational initiatives in a community school in Zambia. My inspiration was driven by a simple belief: no matter how far we have climbed our own ladder of success, there are countless others a few rungs below, eager for a hand to lift them up.
During my recent visit to Zambia, I worked within a school, teaching photography and goal setting, which are close to my heart as a professional photographer. The experience was nothing short of transformative, not just for the students but for myself as well. Witnessing young eyes light up as they captured their world through lenses for
Giving back is more than just philanthropy; it’s a business strategy that enriches our soul and sharpens our leadership. By investing in communities, we do not just sow seeds of goodwill; we cultivate a garden of future consumers, employees, and possibly, entrepreneurs who will remember the opportunities we created for them.
But why integrate giving back into our business model? The answer lies in the tangible benefits it brings. Engaging in social causes enhances our brand’s reputation and builds stronger connections with our community. It helps attract and retain clients who value social responsibility - a significant factor in any industry.
Perhaps most importantly, every act of giving has a ripple effect. By teaching photography in Zambia, I equipped individuals with a tool to express themselves and perhaps even
Activity or Productivity
by Darren Austin at Synergee
One of the many reasons businesses produce a Profit and Loss (P&L) account as part of their regular management information is to ensure that their activities are producing the desired results, i.e., profits.
The starting point for producing a P&L is to include sales invoices raised and bills received as well as the bank transactions in the period. These may need to be adjusted for a variety of reasons such as deposits received, accruals for late supplier invoices, recognising costs incurred for future periods etc. In addition, if your business undertakes projects that extend beyond the reporting period, these require tracking and adjustment so that the amounts reported in the period correctly reflect the work completed in that period. Therefore, accounting systems need to have an effective system for tracking income and costs associated with individual projects. This should, as a minimum, track income, third party costs, and staff costs against each project. Ideally, it will also have a budget for each
project which can be compared to actual income and expenses to identify any issues, such as cost overruns or project delays, as early as possible.
QuickBooks Online (Versions Plus onwards) has an inbuilt project costing module. If you can’t see ‘Projects’ in the menu, you may need to select it in the advanced settings. This allows you to quickly create and manage multiple projects, track time and expenses associated with each project, generate detailed reports on project profitability, budget variance, resource utilisation, and bill clients based on either project milestones or time and materials.
Without some form of project costing, any business undertaking larger projects will struggle to produce management information that accurately reflects the results for the period. By tracking project costs, monitoring progress, and generating accurate reports, you can improve profitability, enhance decisionmaking, and achieve greater project success.
support themselves financially in the future. Imagine the impact if each of us committed to transforming just one life. Collectively, we have the power to change the world - one person, one act at a time. I urge my fellow entrepreneurs to consider what ‘giving back’ could look like for them. It doesn’t need to be as farflung as Africa; local initiatives are equally significant. Whether through mentoring, sponsoring education, or supporting local enterprises, our potential to make a difference is limitless.
As we continue to navigate our business journeys, let’s embed ‘giving back’ into our business development strategies. It’s not just about the success we achieve, but how we enrich the paths we cross. After all, in the grand tapestry of entrepreneurship, each thread of generosity contributes to a stronger, more vibrant picture. Let’s be leaders who not only succeed in business but also succeed in humanity. Together, we can make giving back a vital part of how we do business, ultimately making the world a better and more enriched place.
www.brandphotographybydeeairey.co.uk
If you have any questions you'd like to ask Darren he can be contacted on 01892 772960
www.synergee.org.uk
Darren Austin is a director of Synergee Limited, a firm of Chartered Accountants & business advisers based in Tunbridge Wells.
A Healthspa for all Seasons…
ALL ARE WELCOME FOR SPA DAYS, BEAUTY TREATMENTS AND FITNESS CLASSES
Come relax, restore, rejuvenate and embrace a new you this New Year!
Nestling in three acres of Victorian gardens, just 10 minutes from Tunbridge Wells, Knowle Grange Health Spa is a surprisingly little known retreat.
Our spa combines first class facilities with a warm, inviting atmosphere - perfect for those seeking relaxation and fitness. Beauty and spa therapy treatments feature highly in what we offer.
A personal and welcoming environment, our facilities include private spa treatment facilities, an airy excercise studio and a lovely café waiting to refresh you after a fitness class!
All our therapists and instructors are qualified, experienced and motivating. With ample free parking and personalised service, each visit makes you look forward to the next.
ITS NOT JUST ABOUT THE GIRLS…
At Knowle Grange, we believe self-care is for everyone. That’s why we proudly offer a range of male grooming services, tailored to help men look and feel their best. Whether you’re seeking essential grooming or simply a moment to relax and reflect, our treatments are designed with you in mind.
Our male grooming treatments include:
• CAUDALIE FACIALS
• MEN’S HAIR REMOVAL
• NAIL & FOOT TREATMENTS
FREE PARKING | OPENING HOURS ARE:
We are OPEN Mon to Sat from 9am to 5pm, Thurs from 9am to 7pm.
Tel. 01892 750055
E. enquiries@knowlegrange .co.uk Visit us at www.knowlegrange.co.uk
• BACK FACIALS
To find out more, scan the QR
What now for landlords?
Labour announced it’s first Budget in 14 years last October. Now she’s had time to clearly examine it, Becky Moran of TN Lettings takes a look at how the Government’s proposals impact the rental market…
In one of the more positive moves announced for landlords following the Budget, Labour revealed it would be holding capital gains tax (CGT) at the existing rates. Landlords are required to pay CGT when they make a profit on a property that is not their residential property that they are selling.
Image by Mollie Manning
the number of potential tenants. Still, figures suggest we could be in a selling market, as 29% of landlords are preparing to sell their property in the next year, while just 11% are planning to buy in the same 12 months.
“Those who inherit from a surviving spouse or civil partner will be eligible for up to £1 million tax-free. This allows landlords to potentially keep and expand their portfolios of rental properties”
As there was a fear that this tax would be increased as a way for the Government to try and plug a hole that was reported to be worth £22 billion, this had led to many looking to move on their rental properties.
Nonetheless, the decision to lock CGT tax rates for landlords appears to have calmed any concern. It has even fuelled growth, as there is no longer an immediate rush to sell. At the same time, there has been an automatic uptake in
The Budget also confirmed that the inheritance tax threshold will be frozen. It will remain at £325,000 until 2030, meaning this amount of an estate can be inherited without taxes being paid. This can be raised to £500,000 if the estate is passed to direct descendants.
Those who inherit from a surviving spouse or civil partner will be eligible for up to £1 million tax-free. This allows landlords to potentially keep and expand their portfolios of rental properties without the burden of paying more tax.
Could your oversized garden or unused garage transform your finances?
new home
Why not get in touch to discuss how you could release tax-free equity in your property through design led development. We offer a £5,000 signing bonus on all new projects.
Call: 0207 971 1226
Email: contact@caswellanddainow.com
Website: www.caswellanddainow.com
These benefits should keep good landlords in the property market for the foreseeable future, while they may attract new potential landlords, thus creating new homes for the nation’s people. However, many are concerned about the increase in stamp duty and the end of the inheritance tax freeze (ending in 2028 and rising at the inflation rate thereafter). Stamp duty that landlords will need to pay on additional properties will be increased from 3% to 5% for a property valued up to £250,000. Higher stamp duties will be required for properties greater in value. For example, a property with a value of between £250,001 and £925,000 will see its stamp duty increase from 8% to 10%.
In 2022, the minimum stamp duty rate increased from £125,000 to £250,000. This will end in March 2025 and return to its previous rate. As a result, landlords who decide to purchase new rental properties to grow their portfolios will encounter significant increases in the amount of tax that they will pay. tnlettings.co.uk
In her column this month Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential looks at the pros and cons of taking your house off the market during the festive period. Read on to discover whether you should stick or switch…
As we draw ever nearer to the Christmas holidays, the number one question that my sellers ask me at our regular review meetings, is “should I rest my house over the Christmas period?”. I totally understand the attraction of this route, and sometimes it is the right decision. But what are the pros and cons?
Firstly, the Christmas period, just like the summer holidays, experiences a seasonal slowdown. Potential buyers are preoccupied with holiday festivities, travel, or spending time with family, and by removing your property from the market, you can avoid the stress of dealing with a less active market.
Secondly, the reduced disruption during what can be a busy time for families is very appealing. Preparing your home for viewings and keeping it in pristine condition, especially when you have young children, can be very stressful. There is also an argument that you may re-energise your listing, capitalising on the surge of buyers with New Year resolutions. This break might also give you time to
improve or stage your home, addressing previous feedback and making it more attractive when the market picks up again. However, there are advantages to staying on the market. Firstly, you will probably face less competition, as many other sellers will remove their properties. Your home will stand out more to the limited number of motivated buyers who are active during this time, since while fewer people may be looking for homes during the holiday season, those who are tend to be highly motivated, often with an urgent need to move. By removing your home from the market, you risk missing out on these serious buyers.
interest rate changes, negative media commentary, bad weather (!) or economic shifts, especially as we wait to see what unfolds in the USA.
Of course, by removing your house from the market, you are also delaying your sale and move. Furthermore, recent times have shown us how volatile the housing market can be and waiting until after the holidays may not result in a better outcome. Prices may drop due
If you value less disruption and are not in a rush to sell, a break over the holiday season could be beneficial. However, if you’re eager to capitalise on motivated buyers and want to avoid the delays of waiting until the New Year, my advice? Stay on!
Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas… www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk
After Hours
Where to wind down in the Wells
No place like home
Discover the timeless appeal of The Cotswold Company here in the heart of Tunbridge Wells
Festive feasts
Why the George & Dragon in Speldhurst is the ideal spot if you're after a cosy Christmas and delicious food and drink
Talking tables
We meet the duo behind tablescaping business SET
She's in fashion
Charlotte Newman of Kitch reveals the secrets of her sartorial success as she celebrates 20 years in business
Planning ahead
Tim Sykes of Gardenproud reveals his garden wish list for 2025
On the run
Discover what's new for the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon
The spirit of Christmas
If there’s anywhere you should be heading over the festive season it’s The George and Dragon in Speldhurst. Steeped in history, charming character and with the best seasonal food and drink on offer - what are you waiting for?
Linger longer after a pint or glass of mulled wine and dine in one of the pub’s charming bar areas which is currently serving an epic epicurean seasonal menu
When it comes to choosing a perfect spot for a seasonal or new year get-together with friends and family, The George and Dragon in Speldhurst has all the necessary ingredients in spades. Roaring fires, cosy nooks, delicious food and drinks plus the heartiest of welcomes are the popular 15th century pub’s signature hallmarks. Whether you’ve just done part of the Tunbridge Wells circular walk and are in need of a hearty lunch and a couple of refreshments, or looking for a sociable spot to enjoy an enjoyable evening with those you might not see over the holidays, then this historic hostelry has plenty to offer.
If you decide to linger longer after a pint of ale or glass of mulled wine, then there’s the option to dine in one of the pub’s charming bar areas – or
head upstairs to the fantastic Great Hall banqueting room where there’s plenty of room to accommodate groups of all sizes so they can eat, drink and make merry.
The George and Dragon’s Head Chef Rod Grossman, whose impressive culinary CV includes stints at gastro giants The George in Rye and The Griffin in Fletchling, has created a menu that will appeal to all palates as there is something for everyone on the festive menu.
Dishes include Native Lobster Bisque with Rye Bay Brown Shrimp and Rouille, Crispy Curried Beetroot and Red Onion Fritters, to Eridge Estate Roast Venison, Hay Roasted Sussex Turkey Crown and Oyster Mushroom, Leek and Brighton Blue strudel. We could go on but we don’t want to spoil the surprise of how much this epic epicurean menu offers…
We’ll see you at the bar!
Images: Saltwick
There is a place like home...
At La Spiga, we take pride in crafting fresh, in-house pasta and pizzas using only the finest, freshest ingredients. Our recipes are rooted in Italian tradition, ensuring that each dish captures the true essence of Italy. From our hand-made pasta to our perfectly baked pizzas, every item on our menu is prepared with love and care, just as we would for our own family.
www.laspigarestaurant.com
Eat the food you love –and see results
”
We all know that Christmas can be a particularly over-indulgent time but Jesse Fuller from Slimming World Tunbridge Wells has some canny culinary tricks to share. Read on to discover them and how you can stay on track for 2025 by joining one of the many local Slimming World groups…
So Jesse, how long has there been a Slimming World presence in Tunbridge Wells?
Slimming World has been here in Tunbridge Wells for almost 19 Years with the first group opening its door in January 1996.
How many groups are now in the town and are you always looking for new members?
We currently have seven groups within Tunbridge Wells, with 12 sessions running from Monday to Saturday and a range of options including mornings to evenings across the town. As we head into a brand new year we are about to embark on a mission to reach all parts of our community to let Tunbridge Wells know our groups are here! We know from current research that 58.7% of Tunbridge Wells residents are overweight or obese and are seeking help within the community.
When and why did you join and how did you go on to lead one of the groups?
I joined Slimming World at the age of 20 back in 2014 because I felt miserable about my weight. I’d been overweight since childhood, and it had a huge impact on my confidence and social life. I thought I’d struggle with my weight forever until I found Slimming World. Thanks to the support of the weekly group and Food Optimising, I was able to change my mindset and relationship with food and alcohol to lose over seven stone. I’ve successfully maintained this for 10 years! After seeing how much my confidence, mood and life in general had improved, I knew I had to help others to feel the same, so I went along to a local opportunity event and became a consultant in April 2018.
Can you briefly explain the fundamental rules of following a Slimming World regime?
Eat the food you love – but we can show you how to cut calories without counting them. Food Optimising is at the heart of the regime but the stroke of genius that makes it so easy and effective is indulging in ‘Free Food’ – in other words healthy, satisfying food you can enjoy in unlimited amounts whenever you’re hungry. This means you can still eat favourites like spaghetti bolognese, curry and chicken and chips – and still lose weight.
We currently have seven groups within Tunbridge Wells, with 12 sessions running from Monday to Saturday and a range of options including mornings to evenings across the town
And how does exercise fit into the Slimming World routine?
We have Body Magic which is our unique physical activity programme. It is completely tailored and you can take it at your own pace in order to suit your lifestyle and doing the activity you choose. We will help you develop a healthy active lifestyle which supports your weight loss and – once you reach your dream weight – helps you maintain it for life! Also at the heart of our groups is a powerfully motivating session we call IMAGE Therapy. IMAGE stands for Individual Motivation And Group Experience. Each week you’ll be inspired to form new, lasting healthy habits, and be given the techniques and confidence to manage your mindset. Can Slimming World members indulge in a traditional roast dinner of turkey and all the trimmings at Christmas?
Yes you can! - The beauty with Food Optimising is nothing is off limits it would
just need a few swaps to enable weight loss success such as removing all the fat and skin off meat, cooking with a low calorie spray for your vegetables and potatoes and enjoying pigs in blankets, condiments and gravy in moderation.
Jesse’s top tips for staying on track during the festive period:
1. Take some time to meal-plan your next seven days by working out what you’d love to eat at each meal time whilst giving some thought about your demands for the week ahead
2. Write a shopping list and stick to it like glue when you hit the supermarket. If you have the food in the house to make your meals for the week, you’re set for success
3. If you’re working, or out for the day then prepare a basic meal the evening before to help you stay firmly on track when you arrive home feeling hungry. It’s so much less hassle than doing the supermarket scramble, the driving, the parking and the checkout queue
4. Be kind and forgiving to yourself. Throughout any weight loss journey, there will be weeks when you’re losing weight really well and weeks that seem harder when you’ve simply had a bad day. Know that you’re not alone and these mishaps don’t make you a bad person - and they don’t need to wreck your whole week
www.slimmingworld.co.uk
Curtains, soft furnishings, blinds and re-upholstery.
The Black & White Shop, Groombridge Appointments call 07957 811589
Let us host your event in 2025
At the George & Dragon we have several rooms available for all your event needs. Whether they be small intimate dinners or a business lunch in the Buttery to larger parties and weddings in the Great Hall, we can cater for you from 6 to 60 guests. With a seasonal three course choice menu from just £42pp and an extensive hand picked wine and drinks list, our experienced team will look after your every need. For events enquiries please contact: bookings@ganddspeldhurst.com
Get SET Go
Stuck for ideas on how to ensure your table looks top over the festive season? Then help is at hand courtesy of the founders of SET, a local tablescaping business run by Alex Ellvers and Sarah Batty...
Co-founders of SET tablescaping Alex Ellvers and Sarah Batty met when they both moved to Kent with their families ten years ago. After giving up their corporate careers to bring up their children, they became friends and discovered they both had a shared passion for creativity and design.
opportunity to hire seasonal, trendinspired updates to refresh your table design. We love creating personalised tablescapes that reflect the setting, season - and, most importantly, the client’s unique vision –especially at Christmas and New Year.”
Tablescaping Masterclasses at Bluewater. But SET is not just for Christmas as they host lots of seasonal workshops throughout the year, collaborating with other local artists.
“For 2025 we’re incredibly excited to announce we will be launching wedding workshops, designed especially for DIY brides who are eager to create their own dream wedding. As DIY brides ourselves we both personally understand both the excitement and the challenges that come with wedding planning – as well as budget constraints.
“Our new one-to-one workshops aim to empower brides to definite their unique style and connect them with local suppliers and venues located in beautiful parts of Kent and East Sussex, all at an affordable price.”
If you’ve got a wedding coming up would like to avail of SET’s tablescaping and workshop services then here’s how to get in touch:
“We both loved interiors and crafting and eventually found those skills naturally translated seamlessly into tabletop styling,” they say.
The pair established their business SET just over four years ago with the aim of providing hosts with stunning table settings without the hassle of planning or cleaning-up.
“We provide a luxury table setting rental and tablescape design service, perfect for intimate dinner parties or special occasions across Kent and Sussex. We deliver our table settings directly to your home, transforming your table into the centrepiece of your event.”
With SET, you can choose to rent a complete tabletop package, including elegant crockery, glassware, linens, candles, flowers, menu cards, bespoke place cards, and more.Or, you can select individual items to complement your existing tableware.
“Many of our clients already own timeless pieces, so we offer the
Alex and Sarah say they also love hosting workshops, which are designed to inspire confidence and creativity in entertaining.
“During our workshops, clients gain valuable tips and tricks for designing show-stopping tables that reflect the latest trends and seasons. From layering textures and colours to adding personalised touches like place cards and menu cards, our hands-on styling sessions are both fun and practical.”
For the second year in a row, they've just partnered with Jo Malone London for a
“It's incredibly easy to be swayed by trends but the true magic lies in crafting a table setting that is uniquely yours,” say Sarah and Alex. “We enjoy gathering inspiration from our surroundings, and always say you can easily create something stunning using items you already have at home.” Here are a few of our favourite touches that can truly enhance your table setting:
• Ribbons and bows are a classic addition that never go out of style for festive tables. Consider tying them around your glasses or cutlery
• Fresh fruit and vegetables can add a playful element to your decor. For Christmas, we love using oranges, pomegranates, and walnuts in their shells. You could also craft small wreaths from rosemary sprigs
• Baubles aren't just for decorating the Christmas tree! Scatter various sizes and colours across the table, and attach a place card to each one for a personal touch
• Try something different with your napkins – fold them into trees, create a pretty pocket or tie them in a knot!
• And never forget candlelight! Lighting is key for creating ambience and it has to be low – no overhead lights!
Festive favourites
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If there was ever a time for celebration and indulgence, it’s Christmas. The festive season calls for joyful wines with real personality, says our Drinks Editor James Viner who picks his favourites
From a glorious Greek red to an exceptional Kentish sparkler, I’ve picked some of my favourite bottles of fizz, white, red, sweet and fortified wines to celebrate Christmas, match seasonal dishes and ring in the new year.
BEST… fizz
1. Fun party bubbly:
2021 The Society's Cava Reserva Brut, Spain (£9.76, The Wine Society, 12%)
This consistently crowd-pleasing, dry, crisp and bargainous organic Cava from Sumarroca is delicious on its own or with canapés, making it an excellent choice for festive celebrations. A pity there are no magnums! However, if you’re catering for large numbers and can splash out, lavish hosts can impress guests with a 3L Jéroboam (4 bottles) of The Wine Society's Alfred Gratien NV Champagne (£144.25).
2. Formidable Christmas French fizz gift from Majestic:
Bouvet Ladubay Saumur Brut de Loire NV, France (£10 mix 6, Majestic 3-31 Dec, 12.5%)
Festive bubbly doesn’t have to mean champagne. Made from Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay and delivering notes of lime and orchard fruits, plus subtle hints of flowers and brioche, this stylish bottle-fermented fizz from a go-to Loire producer is a compelling option on the mix six deal. Don’t miss out on 2024’s best traditional method sparkling wine offer— grab it while you can!
Unsurprisingly for a country known for cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, New Zealand has a small but blossoming sparkling wine industry – and Jane Hunter is a leading light. Cheapest price all year for this scrumptious, bouncy, butterbiscuity, nutty and red apple-licked trad method fizz. Loves smoked salmon.
4. Classy Champagne:
Asda Exceptional Champagne Benoît Renaud Blanc de Noirs Brut NV, France (£25, mix any 6+ bottles and save 25% until 15 Dec, Asda, 12%)
Champagne, always, especially for celebrations. Brimming with suave buttered toast, biscuity and red fruit flavours, this appetising wine from onsong Jeeper is my favourite high-street champagne. Spot on to pop with breakfast kippers/scrambled eggs and smoked salmon or sushi, gougères, oysters and rillettes de la mer. Top gift, too.
5. Brilliant Kent bubbly:
2019 Herbert Hall Brut, Marden, Kent (£35.95-£39.50, Lea & Sandeman mix any 6, herberthall.co.uk, 12%)
This refined single-estate vintage wine crafted from organic grapes near Marden boasts a stylish, precise profile with beautifully integrated aromas of patisserie, floral notes, stone fruit, and white peach that will stop you in your tracks. Racy and persistent with a fine bead and deliciousness in spades, it’s a worthy toast for the New Year.
BEST… whites & reds
6. Zesty white:
2023 Baron de Guers Picpoul de Pinet, France (£9, Sainsbury’s, down from £11
Brimming with suave buttered toast, biscuity and red fruit flavours, this is my favourite high-street champagne
with Nectar until 1 Jan, 13%)
Nab this zingy, breezy, lime peel and peach-stashed French white from lowlying land near the Mediterranean Sea and bring it out for the Boxing Day buffet! Ideal also for salads, shellfish and fish pie. Sunshine in a glass.
7. Turkey/shellfish-loving white: 2020 Pegasus Bay Chardonnay, North Canterbury, New Zealand (£20, buy any 6+ bottles and save 25% on Clubcard price, Tesco, 14%)
Scoop up this super-smart, gently oaked, Burgundy-aping New Zealand
JAMES VINER
Chardonnay from one of the South Island’s best producers. It’s racy and nicely evolved, with depth and energy, a creamy palate and a lingering, satisfying finish. Flavours build just the right nuance of oak spice. Catnip for white Burgundy fans. Hello roast turkey and crab!
Tasting of bittersweet dark cherry and wild berries and overflowing with fullthrottled life, this seductive, juicy, pale Cretan Liatiko is admirably persistent for the price. Winemaker Myriam Ambuzer’s magic dust is much in evidence. So much to enjoy, with or without food (it’s ace with tuna and braised lamb!) – serve slightly chilled. Pure pleasure from wild, altitudinous Heraklion.
9. Turkey treat: 2021 Dog Point Marlborough Pinot Noir, New Zealand (£34, Berry Bros & Rudd, 13.5%)
Carrying palate-boggling notes of raspberry, cranberry, violets and dried herbs, this supple organic Pinot from a small but high-quality and attractive vintage has enough fruit to stand up to turkey, duck, game and gammon. Compelling, soulful drinking from one of NZ’s finest producers.
BEST… fortifieds
10. For Christmas pud:
Morrisons The Best Pedro Ximénez (PX) NV Sherry, Spain (£7, Morrisons, 17%, 37.5cl)
This viscous, lusciously sweet PX sherry makes a marvellous substitute dessert. Think fat liquidised raisins, molasses, spice box and coffee. A dream bargain match for Christmas pud, mince pies, Roquefort and poured over ice cream. Yule be delighted.
11. Scrumptious with Stilton:
Warre’s King’s Tawny Port NV, Portugal (£10 Dec 4-Jan 1, down from £15.99, Waitrose, 19%)
Tasting of nuts, spice, coffee, crème caramel and roasted nuts, this is a mellow cask-matured tawny port that should be enjoyed chilled as an aperitif. Accompany with Comté, Parmesan, creamy desserts or dried fruits. Down
to £10 as are the must-try Cave de Lugny Les Charmes Mâcon-Lugny 2023
Chardonnay (from £16.99) and Jackson Stich Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (waitrosecellar.com only from £14.99).
12. Mighty Madeira:
Henriques & Henriques 10-year-old Malvasia Madeira (£25.00, Majestic, Direct Wines, Corney & Barrow, 20%, 50cl) Christmas is unthinkable without Madeira, the tangy fortified wine from the mountainous mid-Atlantic Portuguese Island. Have a glass with Christmas/sticky toffee pudding, mince pies, Christmas cake, mature cheddar, crème brûlée or nuts/dates and rejoice. Expect flavours of coffee, dried fruits, caramel, walnuts and roast hazelnuts. Just the job – boas festas! All prices correct at time of going to press Follow James on Instagram: @QuixoticWines
Good with… Roast beef, duck & guinea fowl
2020 Abbotts & Delaunay
Domaine de la Métairie d’Alon
Pinot Noir le Village, France (£18.99 mix 6, Majestic, 13.5%)
If you’re having beef or duck, it’s time to tuck into this beguiling, aged, filigreed, floral, ginger, red
fruit and liquorice-licked Pinot Noir made from organically grown grapes in Languedoc’s Haute Vallée de l’Aude. It would also make a wonderful accompaniment for drinks party guests to enjoy with antipasti platters.
Earth Matters
In the New Year, Steve Walter a local published writer and poet, and CEO of Making Connections Matter, is launching a series of environmental workshops to help local businesses and community groups work towards sustaining the planet. We find out more about this initiative
Steve Walter’s professional background counts experience in the biochemistry, chemistry, and environmental health industires which certainly gives him a solid foundation in understanding the intricate relationships between human activities and their impact on the planet. With extensive experience in occupational health and safety, policy and enforcement, including a global role as an HSE Manager for a specialist manufacturer, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
Steve’s current mission is to help businesses navigate the complex world of environmental responsibility, while creatively promoting mental well-being in
”
There are three themes to our new workshops: environment, creativity and mental health
the workplace.
Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine caught up with Steve for a brief chat ahead of the series of workshops he will be hosting at Sankey’s on Mount Ephraim from January 17…
So Steve, how would you summarise our relationship with nature?
Nature is life. We are inseparable from the natural world, and our actions impact every part of it. From the air we breathe to the food we eat; we are interconnected with nature’s delicate web. What we choose to buy and the way we live, not only shape our immediate surroundings but may have far-reaching effects on the planet and its people.
Can you please tell us about your forthcoming workshops on this subject?
There are three workshop themes, but most workshops will combine all three. They are as follows:
Environment
These explore our personal and collective roles in protecting this precious web of life. They encourage creativity in response to nature, helping individuals and businesses reflect on their place in the world and the climate emergency we face. Tailored to both personal and business perspectives, the workshops aim to foster a deeper connection to the environment and inspire sustainable action.
Creativity
We are all creative beings at our core, but sometimes that creativity can be
stifled by the pressures of daily life. Thoughts, feelings, and emotions often find their best outlet through artistic expression in its many forms. Whether it’s writing, painting, or spoken word, creativity is essential to being human— and it can also be a powerful tool for mental well-being.
Mental Health
Mental health is at the core of who we are. Just as we all have physical health, we all have mental health, and it deserves the same level of care and attention. The stresses of life and work can take a toll on our well-being, but by fostering positive mental health, we can build stronger, more resilient individuals and communities.
Recognising diversity of thinking and being can bring new ideas; creativity, dynamism and energy to team work, while being sensitive to the planet.
All last approximately two hours and take place from 09:30am at the Upper Function Room, Sankeys Seafood Restaurant and Bar, 39 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8AA. Tickets cost £75 pp.
If you would like to know more and to discuss options on themes, dates or location, you can email Steve Walter directly at hello@ makingconnectionsmatter.com or submit an enquiry form via www. makingconnectionsmatter.com or call 01892 357026. If you wish, we will tailor a workshop to suit you.
Any profits from these initial events will be donated to the World Wide Fund for Nature.
Sustaining the Planet Workshops 2025
January 17th 2025 – Sustaining the Planet - Creativity
January 24th 2025 – Sustaining the Planet - Mental Health
February 21st 2025 – Sustaining the Planet – Environment
March 14th 2025 – Sustaining the Planet – Environment, Creativity, Mental Health
April 11th 2025 – Sustaining the Planet – Environment, Creativity, Mental Health
To book tickets or for more information please visit: www.makingconnectionsmatter.com
What’s the story?
Award
winning children’s Author, Alex Brooks, is announced as the Storyteller behind Demelza’s Trail with a Tale in Tunbridge Wells next summer!
Demelza is thrilled to introduce Alex Brooks, a local children’s author and mum of three, who’s bringing a special kind of magic to the Tunbridge Wells Trail with a Tale taking place Summer 2025.
Known for her playful yet meaningful books like Why, oh why, am I a Crocodile?, Insects, Bugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Why, oh why, was I born a Fly?, each of her books explores essential themes like belonging, identity, and self-esteem, offering young readers not just entertainment, but important lessons in self-acceptance.
Alex is creating original stories for the sculptures on the Trail with a Tale. Alex shares: “Each story is inspired by the charm and character of the animal sculptures, as well as by the children and families I imagine enjoying the trail.”
Each story on the trail will spark curiosity and engagement, allowing families to connect with the trail and the important cause it supports. Alex’s vision is to make each child feel seen and celebrated through her stories, and she is thrilled to share this journey with Demelza.
ALEX’S WRITING JOURNEY
Alex’s journey to becoming a children’s author is as unique and heartfelt as her stories. A mum of three to; Gus, Teddy and Lola, Alex’s background includes several years working with children, which sparked her imagination and inspired her first story, Ant and Feather. “I was sitting by the pool at my parent’s home in Spain,” Alex recalls, “when I saw an ant carrying a feather. That tiny scene ignited my love for writing, and I haven’t looked back since.”
Her big breakthrough came when she collaborated with illustrator Hannah on
Demelza is such an incredible organisation. I’m excited and honoured to have been asked to write the stories for their trail with a tale
Why, oh why, am I a Crocodile?, which became a hit with families and led to another joint project, Insects, Bugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll. Though she and Hannah eventually parted ways, Alex continued her work with Claudia Zavala, creating Why, oh why, was I born a Fly?
Alex comments: “Writing for children
MORE ABOUT TRAIL WITH A TALE
Over the summer of 2025, beautifully illustrated large sculptures and smaller animal sculptures, designed by local schools and community groups, will form a unique, family-friendly outdoor trail for all ages to enjoy. Our stunning sculptures will shine bright around Royal Tunbridge Wells, bringing together the community for an event they will not forget!
Small sculptures – adopted and decorated by schools, colleges and community groups will also join in on the fun as part of our learning programme, and local businesses have
the chance to either sponsor a small sculpture for their own chosen school or community group or sponsor a large sculpture themselves! Sponsors will receive great brand awareness opportunities leading up to the trail and on the trail itself.
There will also be a chance to meet Alex later next year once the trail launches. More information to come!
To find out more about Alex’s work visit www.alexbrooksauthor.com or @ alexbrooksauthor. If you are interested in sponsoring a sculpture, find out more at www.trailwithatale.co.uk
brings out the best in me. I love crafting stories that are as fun as they are meaningful. Seeing kids laugh, learn, and find joy in my books is what keeps me going.”
COLLABORATING WITH DEMELZA
This year, Alex is proud to work with the charity, which delivers extraordinary care for extraordinary children who are facing serious or life-limiting conditions, across Tunbridge Wells, as well as the rest of Kent, East Sussex and South East London. Alex explains: “Demelza is such an incredible organisation. I’m excited and honoured to have been asked to write the stories for their trail with a tale.”
Demelza offers support as unique as every family they help; from creative therapies and short breaks, to practical and emotional support for families and siblings, and care towards the end of life.
They also offer accessible facilities including a sensory room and a large hydro pool for all the family to enjoy.
Hayley Richardson, Deputy CEO at Demelza said: “We are delighted to have Alex onboard with our Trail with a Tale project. We know the magical stories she is creating for each of our sculptures will really bring the trail to life for children as well as helping them feel seen and celebrated. Everyone at Demelza is excited about the trail and bringing something new and family-friendly to Tunbridge Wells, and having a local author supporting us is the perfect partnership.”
Alex Brooks
Say I do in style…
Quantum has just announced it will now host wedding celebrations. Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine discovers what else the popular venue offers newly married couples to ensure their day is stylish, unique and totally memorable…
Since it launched this summer, Quantum has attracted a loyal clientele thanks to its sophisticated surroundings, locally sourced food and drink and reputation for hosting some truly epic events. Over the past few months the venue, which is located in the historic Pantiles, has put on everything from networking evenings and special birthday parties to corporate functions.
And now, just-married couples will have the opportunity to spend their wedding there too so they can celebrate their special day the Quantum way…
If you are planning your ceremony in a local church, registry office or getting married abroad, then Quantum can provide you with the perfect location to celebrate in after you’ve said ‘I do’.
Quantum is exquisitely decorated with a carefully curated mix of rare antiques and modern-day statement interior pieces and can cater for between 20 and 120 guests
Images by johnknightphotography.co.uk
It is exquisitely decorated with a carefully curated mix of rare antiques and modern-day statement interior pieces, and can cater for between 20 and 120 guests. That means it’s the ideal establishment – whether you want an intimate gathering or a larger one.
And now, with a designated and experienced wedding and events team in situ, couples can be sure of a seamless, relaxing and memorable day – as these exclusive pictures illustrate.
Quantum also works with some of our best local suppliers to ensure each wedding is a huge success. From hair and beauty experts, to florists, photographers and specialist food and drink companies, every signature detail of a couple’s big day
is meticulously thought through.
Quantum Club & Cocktail Bar, which features an impressive and contemporary bar, a 1912 baby grand piano and unique artwork, is ideal for larger celebrations as it can accommodate up to 80 guests, with a mix of standing and seated.
While the Boho-inspired main lounge and bar area is just perfect for smaller celebrations as it seats 20 - or 45 guests if you want a mix of standing and seated.
For larger receptions of up to 120 guests, Quantum offers exclusive hire of the whole venue.
For more information please see www.clubsquantum.com or email events@clubsquantum.com to arrange a viewing.
A special thank you to the Quantum suppliers who were involved in this exclusive shoot. They include:
The Cove Natasha Hodges Hair
LumierePushkins Essence at The Pantiles
Castle Fine Art Majestic Wines
Charrington Cider
Keep calm it’s Christmas
Lucy Parker is the founder of Flow, the town’s most established yoga and wellbeing studio, which she co-runs with her husband Ben. Here the qualified senior yoga and meditation teacher, who is also now a counsellor and coach, reveals her top tips for staying stress-free this festive season
Have you ever wondered why you get so worked up in December? What is it about Christmas that puts you into a frenzy of socialising, overspending, unrealistic demands and self-recrimination?
One way to view this phenomenon is through the lens of parts and the psychotherapy model of Internal Family
Systems (IFS). Seeing yourself as a whole unit comprising many individual parts or sub-personalities is helpful. Like a jigsaw puzzle, we feel complete and easy to read when assembled - but scattered and confused when in pieces.
Christmas can be challenging, sending our parts into a spin and confusing the overall picture. We’ve witnessed it every year, and how we’ve experienced
past celebrations affects our attitude and approach to Christmas today. Each of our inner parts may see the same event differently, so it’s important to acknowledge that we might have conflicting parts related to the same event. This inner conflict can complicate our feelings and lead us to struggle with differing aspects of ourselves.
Things start to run more smoothly when our different parts trust they can join forces and work together harmoniously ” “
Let’s say Christmas always felt disappointing or isolating to you as a child. Consequently, you have parts that carry those wounds and strive to prevent them from hurting again. Parts might become overly controlling in their attempts to make this Christmas feel different. Some parts will do everything possible to ensure
‘perfection’, ignoring others desperately trying to point out real present-day issues, such as financial or energetic limitations. It’s worth remembering that our parts also hold unique fears and beliefs about their predicted outcome, all with good intentions. They want what’s best for us, even if that’s hard to understand. They also often work in isolation, not realising they’re one cog in a much larger wheel. Things start to run more smoothly when our parts trust they can join forces and
work together harmoniously.
But it’s important to remember that we do have an ace up our sleeve which often goes unnoticed. And that’s our joyful, curious, and calm central ‘Self’, which, when allowed to, can step into a leadership role, seeing the wood for the trees and illuminating the way. Self offers a quiet whisper of ‘enough’ when expenses rise and energy levels dip into the red. Self reminds us of what’s truly important and what matters most within
our system. Self is the compassionate leader of our inner system and is vital for ensuring overall health and happiness. Here are some tips to help you this Christmas to stay connected with your ‘Self’ and soothe your anxious, hardworking parts:
TRY THESE 5 TOP TIPS…
1. Identify the parts within you and learn more about their good intentions
2. Build a strong relationship with your Self to lead your inner system with compassion and curiosity
3. Take regular daily pauses to check in on your system and notice what’s active
4. Buy the book No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz and pop it under the tree for Betwixmas reading
5. Contact an IFS therapist, like me, to help you understand all your parts, smoothing the way to more connection, clarity and courage for this year and into the next
Lara Husband, who runs Skin Therapy, The Pantiles, tells Eileen Leahy about her innovative approach to looking after her clients and why providing long-term, tailored treatments is the solution to more healthy skin and improved wellbeing…
Tucked up in the eaves of The Hive, a co-working space located in a beautiful period building on the historic walkways of Tunbridge Wells is Skin Therapy, The Pantiles - a specialist treatment space run by Lara Husband.
Having worked in the skincare industry for over 15 years, Lara certainly knows a thing or two about achieving and maintaining healthy skin. But her work goes far beyond the quick-fix cosmetic facial.
In fact, her business, which has just celebrated its first anniversary, is very different to the mainstream dermatology offerings out there. Lara believes that skin health is not achieved in just one treatment or with a ‘miracle product’. Lasting results require consistency, commitment and lifestyle changes which is why she says she is ‘committed to going on a journey’ with her clients.
This is done by offering invaluable advice, personalised skincare plans, and resultsdriven treatments for life.
“We look at everything - including someone’s genetic history as it’s all related
improving your wellbeing too.”
Lara trained at college in Lewes but ended up living and working in Australia when she was just 21 – which is where she said her interest in skin biology and aesthetics really took off. During her seven years there, Lara completed many diplomas in skincare,
Skin Therapy, The Pantiles offers invaluable advice, personalised skincare plans, and results-driven treatments
salon management and teaching which saw her travelling all over Australia.
Yet although Lara had built up her skincare knowledge skillset to an impressive level by then, she eventually decided to move back to the UK.
to how your skin behaves,” she tells me as we sit down to chat in her treatment space which feels positively cocooning as soon as you step inside, courtesy of the soothing lighting and décor, luxury Neom candles flickering away and gentle ambient music playing.
“I’m pleased you like it,” says Lara. “My work is very prescriptive and because I use medically graded products and machinery, the last thing I wanted was for it to come across as clinical. As well as treating your skin, hopefully I am
After a short spell working in Yorkshire, where she is originally from, Lara moved to London where she managed some of the capital’s top clinics.
“One of the places I worked at in London was consistently ranked as the place to go for facials and I really learned a lot there. Over the years I treated many celebrities, models and even members of the royal family.”
However, Lara says that despite this level of success, she ultimately knew she wanted to run her own business.
“When I set up my own clinic I wanted to bridge the gap between spa-type facials and medically backed, scientific clinical treatments.”
Lara offers a variety of treatments, ranging from her signature Your Skin Health and Fire & Ice facials to extractions, LED Light Therapy and specialised skin consultations. She is also a specialist in acne and rosacea.
Lara’s go-to brands are ZO Skin Health, IS Clinical, Glo and HydroPeptide and she has
invested in some very impressive stateof-the-art equipment including a SkinPen microneedling machine.
“Going from using over the counter products to medical grade skincare, you really do see a big difference when it comes to the results.”
Lara treats a variety of clients ranging from teenagers who would like specific guidance on hormonal acne, pregnant women, and brides-to-be. Lara is currently working with The Pantiles Bride on bridal referrals.
Plenty of her former London clients come down to see her – and quite a few male clients too. “I think they like the fact that my skincare treatments are results-driven,” states Lara.
“People don’t come to me for a oneoff treatment, it’s a long-term plan and unique process. I want each person to feel confident in the skin they are in.”
Consultations start from £50, facial treatments start from £100. TN card members can benefit from a 10% discount.
See www.skintherapythepantiles.com for more details.
12-16 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5TN
Monday - 11am - 8pm
Wednesday - 10am - 7pm
Thursday - 9:30am - 6pm
Saturday - 10am - 4pm
Socials: @skintherapy_thepantiles
“Lara has completely revolutionised my skin, I have had zero acne since seeing her”
“I have confidence again and rarely wear make-up, I don’t know what I would do without Lara in my life”
“My skin is stronger, healthier and calmer than it has been in years, I’m hooked!”
Your Personalised Skin Health Journey
At Skin Therapy, The Pantiles, every treatment is carefully tailored to your skin and its unique needs.
Our passion is helping others achieve their skin goals, from consultations through to advanced treatments our focus is making you feel confident within your own skin.
The eyes have it
Jamie Edney talks us through the impressive collection of luxury eyewear stocked at his Edney & Edney boutique, which he co-runs with his optometrist wife Ayshah. Exclusivity, craftsmanship, and timeless style, he says, are all guaranteed…
At Edney & Edney, we’ve always believed that eyewear is an essential element of personal style. Since opening in 2016, we have championed an appreciation for the artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation behind artisan eyewear. Current trends demonstrate the dichotomous combination of tradition and modernity, with iconic names like Jacques Marie Mage, Akoni, Dita, and John Dalia setting the stage. We have curated a collection of eyewear that represents so much more than a vessel for your prescription lenses, but a statement of individuality.
Timeless Craftsmanship and Iconic Designs
Luxury eyewear brands like Jacques Marie Mage and Dita have set the standard for unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Jacques Marie Mage are renowned for their intricate handcrafted process, which boasts that a single pair of frames passes through over
100 hands during production. The use of premium materials such as Japanese titanium, Takiron acetate, and 18k gold ensures that each limited edition piece is perfect. The bold, vintage-inspired
At Ashdown Plant Hire & Sales Southern Ltd,
and plant hire solutions. Based in Reigate,
designs from JMM evoke a sense of sophistication.
Similarly, Dita frames are recognised for their architectural forms and meticulous construction. Dita frames are handassembled by craftsmen who bring years of experience to every pair. The result is eyewear that stands the test of time, both in terms of durability and style.
The Art of Quiet Luxury with Akoni
For those seeking beautiful spectacles without wanting to make a bold statement, Akoni eyewear offers a refined aesthetic that exudes elegance. Akoni strive to produced frames representing their self-coined “quiet luxury”. These frames are designed with the discerning customer in mind. The subtle details, such as polished finishes and precision-engineered hinges, knurled finials and porcelain nose pads make Akoni a favourite among those who value elegance and functionality in equal measure.
At Edney & Edney, we are proud to have a number of prestigious names including Jacques Marie Mage, Akoni, Dita, and Kirk & Kirk. We always want to ensure our clients have access to the finest eyewear available
At the forefront of the trend toward bold, sculptural eyewear is Kirk & Kirk, a British brand helmed by a husband and wife team who create stunningly vibrant acrylic spectacle frames without sacrificing comfort or quality. The collection’s use of high-grade acrylic, which is lightweight, hypoallergenic, and available in a dazzling array of colours sets them apart in the luxury eyewear market. For clients looking to express a playful personality through eyewear, look no further than Kirk & Kirk. The world of luxury eyewear has never been more exciting. Brands like Jacques
Marie Mage, Akoni, Dita, and Kirk & Kirk continue to push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship, offering eyewear that transcends function to become a true work of art. At Edney & Edney, we are proud to carry these prestigious names, ensuring that our clients have access to the finest eyewear available. Whether you seek timeless elegance, bold innovation, or quiet luxury, our collection is curated to meet the highest standards of style. Come and get acquainted with our beautiful collection on Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, or email for more information: hello@edneyandedney.com.
Bold Hues with Kirk & Kirk
A passion for fashion
Kitch fashion boutique, located on Tunbridge Wells’ High Street, is celebrating 20 years in the fashion business. Eileen Leahy meets its founder Charlotte Newman to discover more of its sartorial success story…
Stepping inside Kitch feels like you are entering Fashion Narnia. Every orifice of the double-fronted building, located at the top of the High Street, is filled with something gorgeously eye-catching. From the stunning Anna Beck jewellery display case and racks of Tom Ford eyewear, to the colourful rails of exquisite clothes which include brands such as Donna Ida, Mishky and Suncoo, there really is something for anyone with a palpable passion for fashion.
“I’ve always tried to buy items that are different and that you just can’t get in every department store,” Kitch’s founder Charlotte Newman tells me when we meet.
“I have always sought out new, evolving global brands that I pick up before they reach the UK and then bring them in. I usually stock them for around five years and when they start to go massive and saturate the market, I will go in search of new brands.”
Charlotte, whose professional background started in retail when she was just 16, certainly has the Midas touch when it comes to sourcing and championing brands. She was the first to introduce the cult labels Farm Rio and Devotion Twins into the UK and has ensured that ever since she opened her doors back in 2004 that her brand stays fresh and forward-thinking. And her loyal customers love her for that.
“One of my favourite aspects of the job is the sourcing and buying. When I am on my travels I will always spend a couple of days going through local shops and beach clubs just looking for new labels because my customers want something different,” says Charlotte who has clients visiting her store from all over the South East.
“Since day one it has always been about providing that one-stop shopping
destination where you can pick up a pair of shoes, some jewellery and a dress or tailored suit – all of which will be different to what you’ll find anywhere else.”
Charlotte’s professional fashion experience includes having worked for the likes of The Burton Group (now Arcadia) and cult French brands Morgan and Naf Naf before she set up her own business.
“I’ve worked in both wholesale and buying my whole career, but after I had my two children I was still commuting up and down to London. I never saw them
so I decided I needed to change that and that’s when I had the idea to launch Kitch.”
So twenty years into doing business, does Charlotte have an archetypal customer?
“No I don’t. She can be anything from 18 years old to 80. Each season you have to adapt your buying as to what your customer wants but essentially we know what our best sellers will be. We have some amazing new brands coming in store soon.”
As is the case for so many retailers,
there have been good and bad times over twenty years for Charlotte, who employs a team of five at Kitch. But unlike most it was Covid that turned out to be a game changer.
“When lockdown started I was living in New York due to being stranded there due to the pandemic. We had no website and I thought ‘Oh no, that’s it for Kitch.’ So I phoned (local stylist) Victoria Genevieve and asked her to come in to do an Instagram Live. We had no website at the time so I couldn’t sell online so any orders that came in were done in store.”
Eventually, Victoria ended up going in twice a week, every week, over the lockdown period to host Kitch’s Insta Lives – which still happen every Wednesday - and it totally turned Charlotte’s whole business around.
“We gained so many new customers from those online walks around store with Victoria. At the time I had a whole shop full of occasion and work wear but I reduced it all and bought a load of loungewear and co-ords as that was what everyone was wearing through lockdown. Being an independent retailer as I was able to react really quickly and source what everyone wanted.”
The following year Charlotte started to invest in a new website, which has now proved to be very successful. “We now have lots of customers ordering from all over the UK. The digital side of Kitch is an integral part of our business now. And we have so much more to look forward to and share in 2025…”
Kitch, 1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Website: www.kitchclothing.co.uk
Instagram: @kitch_clothing
“Opening a store in Tunbridge Wells was a particularly proud moment for us”
So Lisa, to get started can you share a very brief history of The Cotswold Company for our readers please?
The Cotswold Company was founded in 1996, beginning its journey with the opening of its first store in Bourton-onthe-Water, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds. The company quickly gained popularity and continued strong growth across both retail and online channels led to the relocation of its flagship store to the enchanting Stow-on-the-Wold. Our collections have always been, and will always remain, inspired by the beauty of the Cotswolds—it’s what makes us truly unique.
“Our Tunbridge Wells Cotswold Company store is absolutely breathtaking. The exterior has such a commanding presence, and the interior provides a vast space to showcase our many collections across furniture, upholstery, and home accessories
Lisa Coppin, Chief Creative Officer at The Cotswold Company tells Eileen Leahy why its Tunbridge Wells store, which is located in one of the town’s most stunning historic buildings, is one of the business’s most unique and popular ones. She also reveals a little of the history of the firm and the reasons for its continued success…
us, as we felt it was an important location for our brand. The town embodies all the qualities we seek when considering new store locations: a vibrant and bustling community, stunning architecture, and, of course, an excellent position close to other cities, towns, and villages.
The historic building where your store is located here in Tunbridge Wells is a very striking one. How did The Cotswold Company come to find it?
How many stores do you have across the UK and what made you want to have a presence in Tunbridge Wells?
Today, we have a network of ten stores across the UK, as well as an easy-tonavigate e-commerce site offering over 1,300 individual product lines to customers across the UK and Northern Ireland.
Opening a store in Tunbridge Wells in 2022 was a particularly proud moment for
The Tunbridge Wells store is absolutely breathtaking, isn’t it? The exterior has such a commanding presence, and the interior provides a vast space to showcase our many collections across furniture, upholstery, and home accessories. As soon as we visited the space, we knew it had incredible potential and that we could offer local and visiting customers a truly substantial experience.
Since you launched a few years ago here how has business gone?
I am delighted to share that the business has gone from strength to strength, with significant growth in both our store network and product offerings. In the six months leading up to 25 August 2024, The Cotswold Company reported a 15%
increase in sales, reaching £40.1 million, alongside a 21% year-on-year rise in active customers. In September, we proudly opened our 10th showroom in Stamford, and we have further plans to open additional showrooms in the coming months with a new showroom in Marlow recently announced, all part of our strategic expansion to establish ourselves as one of the UK’s leading premium furniture and homeware brands.
Has a loyal customer base been developed and how are you aiming to grow it?
As a brand, it is incredibly important to listen to our customers. We have always
welcomed feedback, which has enabled us to introduce new products and refine existing styles to ensure we offer the best selection and quality on the market. We are proud to have a very loyal customer base who return to us to update their homes. Today, we provide furniture and home accessories for most rooms in the home, including the bedroom, kitchen, dining room, sitting room, office, nursery, and, coming in 2025, bathroom.
How would you describe the aesthetic essence of The Cotswold Company?
Our design teams work closely with manufacturers to create curated collections that suit any style of home, from traditional country cottages to more
Are you able to reveal any particularly popular pieces that customers like to buy?
At the heart of The Cotswold Company’s expansive furniture offering is our much-loved Shaker-style Chester range, which boasts 450 individual products and six different finishes. This provides customers with a diverse array of practical, comfortable, and stylish designs that can be seamlessly integrated into any home. Whether it’s the best-selling ‘Bootility’ Cupboard, which is one of my favourite pieces and is designed to offer practical and functional storage solutions in a busy home, or the Hideaway Media Unit,
modern city dwellings. From farmhousestyle dressers and tables to mid-centuryinspired beds and wardrobes, and from contemporary corner sofas to antique-inspired armchairs, The Cotswold Company caters to a wide array of tastes, offering something special for every customer.
What would you say makes the Tunbridge Wells The Cotswold Company store so unique?
The store itself spans 13,000 sq ft, with 20 rooms spread across two floors. Within this space, a variety of styles and rooms are showcased, ensuring a broader selection of Cotswold Company products are on display. The layout includes all the room setups one would expect from one of our stores, including a kitchen area six dining spaces, seven living rooms, and eight bedrooms. There is also a mattress testing zone, where customers can try out various mattresses from The Cotswold Company's British-made Pure Natural Collection.
with its elegant lines and ample storage making it the perfect piece to conceal a TV in a living room or snug, each piece has been thoughtfully designed to meet the growing demands of every room in a busy household.
How many are in The Cotswold Company Tunbridge Wells team and what do they enjoy about working there?
The Tunbridge Wells store has six full- and part-time members of staff, all of whom excel at engaging with our customers and ensuring they feel looked after during their visit. The town boasts an exciting community, and the many local events, independent retailers, and lovely restaurants attract a vibrant mix of visitors to the centre, which is fantastic for our business.
Whether visitors to the store are local or from further afield, we hope they leave with a positive experience and a newfound love for the brand.
Can you tell us about any of your favourite festive finds that we can locate in-store for Christmas?
We have a wonderful selection of gifts in-store this year, ranging from our elegant Fine Black Metal or Mother of Pearl photo frames to artisan ceramics and luxurious hand-quilted velvet throws in rich ochre and brick colourways. The run-up to Christmas is also a popular time for customers to refresh their homes, especially guest bedrooms, with new mattresses or bed linen. Others may choose to invest in a new dining table in preparation for larger gatherings during the festive season.
As you may well be aware, the previous retailer located in this incredible former congregational church before The Cotswold Company also had 'Cotswold' in its name. Has it been a challenge to communicate the message of The Cotswold Company now being the sole retailer there?
Occasionally, a customer will come in looking for walking shoes, unaware of the change in retail, but this is happening less and less. We are seeing footfall grow in the town as we build a loyal base of customers drawn to our high-quality furniture and homewares. The Cotswold Company is expanding nationwide this year, and as a result, awareness of our brand is growing rapidly, and our customer base is expanding at an impressive pace.
Why should potential interior-loving customers choose to shop at The Cotswold Company?
We firmly believe that we offer one of the best ranges on the market, combining choice, quality and longevity to our customers. At the Cotswold Company, we provide a remedy to disposable, throwaway furniture, crafting pieces designed to last and become loved investments in our customers’ homes for years to come. Our stores are a source of pride, and our staff undergo rigorous training to ensure they can confidently guide customers through the process of updating their homes—a task that can often feel overwhelming.
Over the years, we have collaborated with talented stylists and photographers who help bring our vision to life, always drawing inspiration from the beauty and charm of the Cotswolds. Strong visuals play a significant role in inspiring our customers, enabling them to picture our products in their own homes. These elements combined are what make The Cotswold Company what it is today.
The Cotswold Company, 95-97 Mount Pleasant, Tunbridge Wells.
01892 486 989
cotswoldco.com
Light up your life
Which are your best sellers and do these vary from season to season?
Photography: Emily Harding
The Wells Candle Company was founded by Leila Eldred in 2020. Over the past four years the entrepreneur has grown her business but has never forgotten that good quality products and customer relations are key. Here she tells Eileen Leahy more about her beautiful hand-poured candles and gorgeous diffusers – which will no doubt make a perfect gift for Christmas…
So Leila, tell us when and why you started your candle business… I had been made redundant during the first lockdown in 2020 but decided to embrace the calm and very much enjoyed the slow living that afforded me. I had it all: a cosy place to call home, a husband and two beautiful children and a dog we could take on long walks. But after a while I realised that I needed to keep busy during that crazy time. So that’s when I decided to start my own business.
Had you any previous experience in this particular sector?
I am a qualified graphic designer and have worked most of my life in sales and retail, so this was certainly a new challenge. I found a few courses and started to teach myself the art of making and hand-pouring candles. We now have a range that comprises reed diffusers, wax melts as well as our signature luxury candles.
In what ways have you grown the business since it first launched?
I wanted to make products that people loved and would share with their friends and families, and I really do think I have achieved this. Never underestimate the power of customer loyalty in growing your business.
What would you say is the Wells Candle Company's USP?
I want to create stylish pieces for people’s homes, and I hope I have created that with simple but classic branding and really lovely fragrances. These range from Cassis & Fig and Lavender Spa to
My best sellers change according to the time of year. For Christmas our Damson, Rose and Patchouli is always a favourite but we also sell Winter Spice and White Christmas candles, wax melts and diffusers
My best sellers change according to the time of year. I always introduce a new fragrance every few months, so it really does depend. For Christmas and winter our Damson, Rose and Patchouli is always a favourite but we also sell festive treats such as Winter Spice and White Christmas candles, wax melts and diffusers so you can scent your home beautifully this December.
Are your customers mainly from the local area or are they based all over the country?
One of the good things to come out of the pandemic is how people now love to support local - now more than ever. Which is great and I'm very thankful for because by doing so you are really helping small, independent businesses to survive and thrive.
What are the key lessons you have learned from running your own business - and is it just you in the team?
Running a small business at the moment is really tough and yes, it is just me. I'm the maker, the designer, the promoter and the seller! I really do rely on word of mouth and repeat customers. I also participate in a number of artisan markets throughout the year which helps grow my client base.
Finally, can you reveal any exciting plans for The Wells Candle Company as we head into 2025?
We're going to be adding some new fragrances to the collections and hopefully some new products, so keep your eyes peeled.
Web: www.thewellscandleco.co.uk
Email: info@thewellscandleco.co.uk
Instagram: @thewellscandlecompany
TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE READER OFFER:
Autumn Leaves and Pomegranate. All my fragrance oils are vegan-friendly, crueltyfree, and responsibly sourced. I use Sasol, a mineral wax that is GMO and crueltyfree.
How long did it take you to master the art of hand-pouring the candles? Getting the right mix of wax, fragrance and wick is a complex process. I think it took me a good nine months at least to test, make and roll out my first batch of candles but now it comes as second nature to me and is something I really enjoy doing.
The Wells Candle Company is offering our readers 10% off products. To redeem the discount simply use the code TWB10 when checking out. The company also offers a free click and collect from its studio in Tunbridge Wells. See www.thewellscandlecompany.co.uk for more information
Spice up your celebration at Essence in 2025
Your award winning restaurant and events venue
Essence by Atul Kochhar features a spacious restaurant, bar and a private room perfect for life’s celebrations, whilst in the summer months, the restaurant will spill out onto a spacious terrace to enjoy al fresco dining at its best in the elegant promenade.
So whether it’s a private dinner, business launch or wedding reception, our versatile Grade II listed Georgian building in The Pantiles and tailored menus provide the perfect backdrop for all celebrations.
For a personal viewing and consultation please contact Bibi Roy at: marketing@essencerestaurants.co.uk
Essence by Atul Kochhar, 62-64 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN www.essencerestaurants.co.uk
Give the gift of planning for 2025
As we head into a new year, Tim Sykes of Gardenproud says it’s time to start thinking about how you can improve your garden. Here are a few ideas on how to do that...
This Christmas, why not surprise someone special with a gift that will bring joy, beauty and serenity for years to come? A garden design is more than just a present – it’s a real investment that will transform your outdoor space. Whether your loved one is an avid gardener or simply someone who enjoys the outdoors, a garden design offers a unique, lasting experience that will provide pleasure season after season.
WHY A GARDEN DESIGN?
In a world of ever-changing trends and trinkets, a garden stands as a symbol of growth, renewal and timeless beauty. A garden design will evolve over time, providing a changing backdrop of colour, texture, and fragrance – from the first green shoots of spring to the vibrant colours of Autumn.
TALK
TO A GARDEN DESIGNER
Book a chat now with a Garden Designer in order to get ahead and reinvigorate your garden in 2025. They will help you create a design to suit your house, personality, lifestyle, and space. Whether it’s a large garden in Langton Green, or a cosy courtyard in central Tunbridge Wells, a garden designer will help you create a plan that maximises the potential of your garden.
GETTING STARTED
The process begins with a consultation to evaluate the space, understand your brief and preferences, and consider
practical factors, such as the topography, soil conditions and your maintenance needs. They will also ask you about your wish list and budget. From there the designer will create a series of concepts that encapsulate a vision, incorporating both beauty and functionality into a solution.
In a world of ever-changing trends and trinkets, a garden stands as a symbol of growth, renewal and timeless beauty
THINK ABOUT YOUR WISH LIST
When it comes to creating a garden design that’s truly special, the possibilities are endless. Depending on your taste, a garden design can include a variety of features that enhance the aesthetics and improve your experience.
Here are just a few features that I often share with clients that you might want to include on your own garden design wish list:
• Water Features
Imagine a gently trickling stream, a
serene pond, or a contemporary water wall. These features can provide both visual interest and a soothing backdrop to any garden. The sound of flowing water is also proven to promote relaxation and reduce stress – perfect for anyone looking to create a peaceful haven. Checkout local water features at Chilstone (www. chilstone.com), Pots and Pithoi (www. potsandpithoi.com) and Capital Garden Products (www.capital-garden.com).
• Sculptures
Whether classic or contemporary, a sculpture will add a touch of elegance and personality to your garden. A striking piece will serve as a stunning focal point. Local sculptors to keep an eye on include Louise Giblin (www.louisegiblin. co.uk)and Fairfax Gallery in the Pantiles. Their sculptors include Carol Peace and Helen Sinclair who both create stunning pieces that will elevate any focal point (www.fairfaxgallery.com).
• Pergolas and Outdoor Kitchens
For those who love to entertain outdoors or just enjoy dining al fresco, a pergola can provide both shade and style. Choose from all-singing and dancing designs from manufacturers like Renson (www.renson.net) or see the Suns Lifestyle range locally at (www.corker. co.uk). You can also plug for a bespoke contemporary oak design that will add warmth and character to your garden. Your pergola could be the setting for an outdoor kitchen. These can be bespoke, or modular. If the latter suits your taste
and budget then take a look at Grillo (www.grilloliving.com).
• Kitchen Garden
A kitchen garden is an ideal feature for anyone who loves cooking with fresh, homegrown ingredients. We have one and there is just nothing like enjoying the freshness and taste of your own produce. Raised beds filled with herbs, vegetables, and edible flowers not only look beautiful but linked to an adjoining greenhouse, or cold frames can provide an abundant supply of fresh food.
Your Garden designer can create the layout and the raised beds for you, then you might research appropriate
greenhouses to match your space, style and budget. Sometimes a trip to one of the garden shows around can prove rewarding, as you can see the greenhouse in its flesh and potentially reap the reward a show discount. We enjoyed a recent trip to Hampton Court which saved us a fortune on a very nice Victorian cedar example.
For similar styles see Gabriel Ash (www. gabrielash.com) and Woodpecker (www. woodpecker-joinery.co.uk)
• Terraces and Patios
Terraces and patios create functional, open-air living spaces perfect for entertaining and relaxing. Whether it’s a natural stone terrace adjoining a new
house extension, or a multi-tiered terrace with sweeping views, these features help extend your homes living space into the outdoors.
Designing them to integrate with your house and the garden are critical to your enjoyment and creating an attractive feature.
• Wild Meadows
We are increasingly incorporating these features into customers gardens. If you want to attract pollinators and embrace the natural beauty of wildflowers, a wild meadow area is a fantastic choice. Wild meadows require less maintenance than traditional lawns and offer a colourful, ever-changing landscape filled with native plants, butterflies and bees. Two suppliers we use regularly include Pictorial Meadows (www.pictorialmeadows. co.uk) and Meadow Mania (www. meadowmania.co.uk)
Tim’s Q&A Garden Focus….
Q: Hi Tim, what jobs should I be tackling in the garden this December?
A: Thank you, Maureen. Here are a few tips...
• Protect your Brussel sprouts from falling over by staking them
• Prune climbing roses
• Plant out bare root roses and new ornamental trees
• Collect up fallen leaves and compost
• Prune any grape vines
• Protect terracotta pots and planters from frost damage by placing them in the shed or greenhouse, or wrapping in fleece or bubble wrap
• Hang out some feeders to help those hungry birds
Remember to email in your questions to tim@gardenproud.co.uk
• Rose Gardens
A rose garden is the epitome of traditional English gardens and provides timeless beauty and fragrance. We always recommend David Austin stock (www.davidaustinroses.co.uk) but there are plenty of specialist nurseries including Rumwood Nurseries in Kent (www.britishroses.co.uk) where you can receive excellent advice.. With the correct selection of varieties, a rose garden feature can bloom all year round, offering a stunning display of colours and scents.
• Firepits and Outdoor Fireplaces
A firepit or outdoor fireplace adds warmth and ambiance to any garden.
The perfect focal point for chilly evenings, these features create a cosy space for gathering with friends and family, roasting marsh mallows, sipping a glass of mulled wine, or simply enjoying a quiet moment under the stars.
For further information about designing your garden contact Tim Sykes, at tim@gardenproud.co.uk , or call him on 07725 173820, or see Gardenproud at www.gardenproud.co.uk
On track for inclusion
New features for the next Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon - which include slower pacers and a neurodiversity-friendly Quiet Zone - mean all runners can now focus on their personal best, explains Liz Hawker of Tunbridge Wells Harriers…
It’s early Sunday morning in the February chill. Mist hovers with the promise of sunshine later. The roads are empty with lie-ins and prep for Sunday lunch the order of the day...
But on the third Sunday in February for the past 40 years, up to 2000 runners have descended on St John’s for one of the UK’s leading running events: the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon, run by the Tunbridge Wells Harriers running club. It might be 13 miles long, but the onelap course gives runners some light relief with a stunningly scenic loop through Bidborough, Penshurst and Fordcombe, then a flatter final section through Langton Green towards the medal table.
Sport still presents barriers for many people anxious about the race environment so we’re proud to be making our 2025 event more inclusive
“We’ve come a long way,” admits race director, Michael Youlton. “We had 53 runners back in 1983 and now our half marathon is one of the largest club run events in all of the UK. We’ve also given £200,000 to local charities and organisations that support the event in the last ten years.”
But the scale of the event isn’t all that has changed. For February 2025, the Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon is aiming to be one of the most inclusive running events on offer, with new features including slower pacers, a neurodiversity-friendly Quiet Zone and toilets on the course.
“We listened to what last year’s participants told us would improve the event further,” adds Michael. “This year’s enhancements will make a real difference, attracting people who might have stayed away in the past, assuming it was only for fast club runners.”
For neurodiversity specialist and fellow Harrier, Liz Hawker, 2025 is the chance to reduce barriers, particularly for women, slower runners and those who are not neurotypical.
“Completing a half marathon is an
WHAT IS THE QUIET ZONE?
The Quiet Zone is a calm, smaller space suitable for anyone who experiences anxiety or sensory differences taking part in the 2025 Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon. It is away from the noisy, busy main race ‘HQ’ and available on a first come, first served basis for up to 35 runners to spend time before the race.
You don’t need a diagnosis to use this new facility and can select it as an option when signing up for the event in order to secure your space. Race volunteers manning the Quiet Zone know the race route and are trained in neurodiversity-friendly communication
styles, able to answer questions in advance or on the day.
Features of the Quiet Zone include access to:
• Uncrowded changing spaces
• Drinking water
• Indoor toilets
• Lockers as an alternative to the main race bag drop
• A non-allergenic therapy dog
For more information about the Quiet Zone, visit :
incredible achievement, whether you run it in three hours or one – and fear of noise or needing a toilet along the way is not something that should stop anyone of any age or gender taking part,” Liz explains.
“Sport improves lives but still presents barriers for many people anxious about the race environment - we’re proud to be leading the way and making our 2025 event more inclusive.”
The Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 23 February 2025 at 9am. For more information visit:
The Cove was established in August 2020 and is situated on Tunbridge Well’s beautiful High Street. We are completely independent and are proud to have been awarded Kent’s best florist in 2023. We combine a premium floristy experience alongside British-made artisan products. Our ethos is to support local makers and creators, partnering with small batch distilleries and vineyards and local growers. Offering a wide range of floristry services, all our flower arrangements are bespoke and specific to suit your taste and space. Keeping the environment in mind, our packaging is either recyclable or biodegradable.
With local delivery provided for all products, we cater for a wide range of flower occasions including weddings where we provide free wedding consultations to help us fully understand your vision before creating your dream floral arrangement. No event is too big or too small, whilst farewell occasions are handled with the upmost care and support.
Partnering with local businesses and hospitality, we offer commercial packages as well as flower subscriptions tailored to you. At The Cove we are keen to share are flower knowledge and run floral workshops that make an ideal personal treat or gift. These workshops run all through the year and include fresh and dried flower arranging, pumpkin arrangements and of course Christmas wreath-making.
Don’t forget we also host private functions and events whether you’re looking at hosting your very own workshop as a celebration, or to hire The Cove for a full take over and enjoy our range of spirits and wines. Make a Discovery at The Cove!
Learn more at thecove.shop
St Luke’s Church Hall Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9JH 5.30pm & 7pm Call: Jesse 07710549334
SATURDAY
Tunbridge Wells NEW TIMES FOR 2025 St Barnabas Primary School Quarry Road, TN1 2EY 7am, 8.30am, 10am Call: Jesse 07710549334
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
We currently have opportunities for consultants to join our team. Contact Jesse to find out more about these exciting opportunities 07710 549334
Give the gift of joy this Christmas
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My Tunbridge Wells, Your Tunbridge Wells
Clare Lush-Mansell from My Tunbridge Wells is your expert guide to all the fantastic events happening in the run-up to Christmas, New Year and into early 2025…
Festive fun
Experience the enchantment of Christmas at Chiddingstone Castle with Afternoon Tea alongside Father Christmas, complete with a special goody bag. I’m especially excited to bring my daughter along to this one! Enhance your visit by discovering the Christmas Trail and unleashing your creativity in the craft marquee. Limited December dates remaining - don’t miss out! For more info visit: www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk
National treasures
The National Trust is bringing festive cheer to the South East with a range of magical Christmas activities for the whole family. Local highlights include Tudorinspired Christmas festivities at Ightham Mote, sparkling 1930s decorations at
Chartwell, and terrific trails at Knole and Scotney Castle. Whether you’re seeking nostalgic moments like Walking with The Snowman™ at Sheffield Park or a tranquil winter walk at Emmetts Garden, there’s something to suit everyone. www. nationaltrust.org.uk
Christmas crafting
Calling all young aspiring elves: Father Christmas needs your help! Join the Christmas Elf Workshop at The Amelia from 7th - 23rd December and sprinkle some crafting magic. With the elves on
strike, it’s up to you to create the special gifts! Enjoy a variety of activities, including making a Christmas decoration, printing your own wrapping paper, and crafting a pop-up Christmas card. This workshop is just for children – no adults allowed – ensuring every gift stays a magical surprise. All materials are provided.
Musical maestro
Prepare for a musical seasonal delight with Handel’s Messiah at the Church of King Charles the Martyr in Tunbridge Wells on 14th December at 7pm. Join Baroque expert Steven Devine for
a breathtaking performance of this timeless classic. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with magnificent music and extraordinary voices. Tickets are available from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ mkctw/
The stage is set
Pantomime is back at Trinity Theatre –oh yes, it is! Don’t miss the spellbinding production of Sleeping Beauty, opening on 14th December. This beloved fairytale is packed with music, laughter, and festive magic for all ages. And due to popular demand, The Aliens Who Saved Christmas returns from 17th – 27th December. This colourful and magical show is brimming with fun and excitement – with just eleven performances, book early to secure the best seats! www.trinitytheatre.net
Out on the town
How about a nice little wander around Tunbridge Wells? This December, the town is positively sparkling with Christmas cheer. Start your adventure with a fun Teddy Bear Selfie at Royal Victoria Place, then head to Calverley Grounds to soak up the magical sights of skaters, the fabulous Ferris Wheel, and the charming Christmas Carousel. Finish your journey at The Pantiles, where the Christmas Market awaits – and why not challenge yourself to find the most delicious hot chocolate or mulled wine along the way?
Theatre of dreams
Step into the magical world of Aladdin at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells! Starring Strictly Come Dancing
Photograph: Mollie Manning
Clare Lush-Mansell
favourite Ore Oduba as Aladdin, alongside crowd-pleasers Stewart McCheyne and James Peake, this action-packed show is a fantastic treat for the whole family. Don’t miss out - book your tickets now for performances running from 14th to 31st December! www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
On track
All aboard Crowborough’s Miniature Railway for their Christmas Special on 14th December from 11am – 3pm. Step into the season as the railway comes alive with beautiful decorations and holiday cheer. Hop on for a magical ride pulled by a charming mix of steam and diesel locomotives. It’s a delightful way to create
special Christmas memories and share the festive spirit with the whole family! crowboroughminiaturerailway.com
By royal appointment
Indulged a little too much? Then why not enjoy a refreshing day out at Hever Castle & Gardens this Twixmas. Wander the magical Christmas Trail, enjoy the fairground rides, and let the kids explore the exciting adventure playgrounds and the Yew Maze. Inside the Castle, you’ll be greeted by beautifully decorated rooms, cosy log fires, and sparkling Christmas trees. A perfect way to stretch your legs and keep the Christmas spirit alive! www. hevercastleco.uk
Sparkle and shine for 2025
Ring in 2025 in dazzling style at The Manor House’s Glitter Ball Party! On Sunday 31st December, from 7pm until the early hours, immerse yourself in a night of glitz and glamour. Enjoy a spectacular evening featuring top DJs, stunning production, and an electrifying party atmosphere that will keep you on the dance floor all night. Black tie attire is encouraged, so bring your sparkle and celebrate the New Year in unforgettable fashion! For tickets visit: www.the-manorhouse.com
The great outdoors
Have you ever been to Harrison Rocks? This is one of our go-to places for a family walk! There’s plenty of parking as well as toilets and maps to help you plan your route. We love to stroll alongside the Spa Valley Railway route, where we often catch a glimpse of a train chugging past. Make sure you wear your wellies!
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Symbol of change – or controversy?
Jaguar, the luxury car manufacturer has certainly divided opinion with its new concept electric car. Some have deemed the new Type OO vehicle as ‘absolutely stunning’ while others have simply called it ‘rubbish’. We asked the creative directors of two Tunbridge Wells agencies, Southpaw and Catch A Fire for their thoughts on what’s arguably been one of the most contentious rebrands in a very long time…
Acontroversial teaser video to unveil Jaguar’s new electric car on social media recently opened the floodgates on the manufacturer, which has been making cars since 1935, when it was aired in October.
It revealed that the globally recognised ‘leaper’ Jaguar logo has been dropped in favour of ‘reimagined’ jaGUar branding - oh and the new Type OO didn’t actually appear in the video. Instead, the carmaker, whose sales have been dwindling for a number of years, let a group of models do the talking.
Following the mixed reaction to October’s teaser video, Jaguar urged people to "trust and reserve judgement" before it unveiled its concept model at a Miami art fair at the start of December. That too has, it’s fair to say, courted mixed opinions.
So marketing disaster – or clever coup?
Here Southpaw’s Glenn Smith and Rich Fuller from Catch A Fire share their thoughts…
Glenn Smith, Creative Director, Southpaw
The new Jaguar rebrand.
I love it: because I instantly hated it.
It jarred with what I believed about the brand. It felt unfamiliar. I didn’t quite understand it. And that all means one thing: Thank f*** someone is trying to do something different!
This rebrand is totally the right thing for Jaguar to do. Car brands are in deep trouble, they all look the same and sound the same, which is largely a result of the globalisation of marketing and short-term consumer research creating homogonous products that please everyone. Take electric cars; due to their engine construction there is no need for them to look like regular cars, and yet they still do. But, hey, the shareholders don’t like risk or change, so the evolution of car brands has almost slowed to a stop.
Cars used to represent excitement: the future! And so, the clever thing Jaguar has
by Jaguar
done is considered what their audience in the next 20 years will find exciting. This means instead of playing the old tropes of masculine achievement, they’ve gone for themes of calmness, spirituality, gender neutrality and conscientious luxury. Call it ‘woke’ design if you like, but it’s the future current twenty-year-olds across the globe want to see. And I suspect Jaguar will become the car brand they aspire to own. I must say, the teaser ad that accompanies this rebrand is a little tryhard for my liking but, at the end of the day, if Jaguar fail in this pursuit, at least they’ll fail forwards, not backwards.
Rich Fuller, Creative Director, Catch A Fire
To borrow a quote from Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc in Knives Out: “It makes no damn sense. Compels me though.”
That’s how I felt when I first saw the new jaGUar rebrand. I’m not in love with it but it’s piqued my curiosity just enough to keep me interested.
There are some bold steps being taken - and not just with the colour palette - but I guess it’s something jaGUar feels they need to do. After all, with dwindling sales, you might argue they’ve nothing to lose. Yes, there’s elements I don’t understand
Cars used to represent excitement: the future and so, the clever thing Jaguar has done is considered what their audience in the next 20 years will find exciting
“
yet - I’m looking at you, capital G and U - and the launch film plays more like a mood film than an actual idea, banding around advertising jargon like ‘create exuberant’, ‘live vivid’ and ‘delete ordinary’ but at the same time I do like the nod to founder Sir William Lyon’s original mantra of “A jaGUar should be a copy of nothing.”
I also really like the big move they’re making toward becoming an electriconly brand. That’s huge. At Catch A Fire we pride ourselves on only working with brands that want to create a better future. Brands with real purpose. And to see jaGUar sticking their head above the parapet and taking that kind of stance is really exciting.
In advertising, we often talk about standing out in a sea of sameness and how you’d rather be talked about than not talked about at all.
So whatever people think about it, it’s got the world talking. And isn’t that the point?
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Making dress-up dreams come true
In its monthly column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, the charity Taylor-Made Dreams tells us how local children’s fashion business Childrensalon has helped some of their ‘little warriors’ courtesy of a wonderful collaboration with Junona…
Supporting a local charity can take shape in many ways, from individual or corporate donations, to organising or participating in a fundraiser. At Taylor-Made Dreams, you are also able to support children's wishes by donating specific items we are looking for directly - just like our recent partnership with renowned fashion house Junona.
these experiences was Junona, who generously gifted dresses to some of our warriors. They have created so many memorable moments for them, such as creating ‘Little Olivia’, a miniature dollsized version of TMD warrior Olivia in her pink Junona dress, which became a comfort companion on her journey.
“ ”Thank you to Childrensalon and Junona for their wonderful corporate support, helping us to enable dreams for children with life-limiting illnesses
We met Junona through local business Childrensalon, who has been a longstanding supporter of Taylor-Made Dreams. Childrensalon has provided consistent support for our services and enabled professional photoshoots for our warriors to experience amazing clothes and create beautiful photos for their families to treasure.
One of the designers we met through
This year they gifted a coat and dress for TMD warrior Lily, which she wore for her birthday in Disneyland. Each memory created through this service becomes a light in the dark for our warriors and their families, and it wouldn’t be possible without businesses like Childrensalon and Junona.
We wanted to talk about Junona’s gifts in kind, as they have once again gone above and beyond, supplying 10 custom dresses for 10 of our warriors - as well as extra dresses for any new families joining us in the coming months. Gifts like these create so many smiles and allow our warriors moments of normality. Thank you to Childrensalon and Junona for their wonderful corporate support, helping us to enable dreams for children with life-limiting illnesses.
“It means so much to us to know that our efforts have brought even a small amount of joy and comfort to these incredible girls and their families,” a spokesperson for Junona said. “We are truly honored to support such a meaningful and poignant cause.
“We were deeply moved to hear about Olivia and are glad that ‘Little Olivia’ could be a companion for her journey. Knowing that her favourite dress now serves as a cherished keepsake for her family is incredibly touching. We hope she rests in peace, surrounded by love and light.”
The spokesperson
added: “It would be our pleasure to once again contribute to this amazing and heartbreaking campaign. Every child deserves to feel confident, beautiful, and like a true princess, especially during the magical Christmas season. We have already begun preparing the dresses for each girl, tailoring them to their sizes and preferences, the team have also prepared a few more dresses in addition to the ones you need, so that you have some stock and can give them to other girls.”
The Junona team added: “We are also very grateful for the opportunity to promote this partnership in your Christmas edition and would love to continue supporting your incredible work in any way we can. Once again, thank you for allowing us to be part of such an extraordinary mission.”
If you or your business would like to support TMD families within your community, there are multiple ways to get involved. Joining the Titanium Circle (our corporate giving platform) allows you to gain while giving or sign up for an upcoming event - we have spaces available for the Brighton Half Marathon in March! So why not get the team out of the office and collaborate in order to support a local cause?
For more information our website: www.taylormadedreams.org.uk
Olivia with “Little Olivia”
Magical Moorcroft
This month antiques expert and TV personality Mark Hill marvels at the timeless allure of Moorcroft pottery…
With inspiration firmly rooted in nature, the flowing, floral and foliate designs and jewel-like colours of Moorcroft are unmistakeable. And there’s a British business success story to inspire behind it too.
In 1897, at the height of the Victorian art pottery boom, a talented 24 year old called William Moorcroft (18721945) was employed as a designer by the Staffordshire pottery James MacIntyre & Co. His talents impressed his bosses, and within a year, they gave him his own studio and team to produce his innovative designs. Amongst his biggest early successes was Aurelian Ware, with its ‘High Victorian’ complex, boldly coloured transfer-printed and enamelled patterns. But it was Florian Ware that really made his name - and launched the hallmark of the company which lasts to this day.
retailers such as Harrods, Tiffany & Co, and Liberty.
The latter swiftly became critical to him as Moorcroft’s relationship with Macintyre & Co. began to falter, partly due to the immense costs of maintaining the high standards of hand production that Moorcroft demanded. When the relationship disintegrated, and MacIntrye’s moved on to producing industrial ceramics, the Liberty family stepped in and backed Moorcroft to open his own factory in Cobridge, Staffordshire in 1913.
the 1980s when the costs of production began to become prohibitive. In 1984, the company was sold to Roper Brothers, who attempted to mass-produce Moorcroft pottery, but this was unsuccessful –the lack of quality showed and sales plummeted. The Roper share was sold to entrepreneurs Hugh Edwards and Richard Dennis who, with Dennis’ noted designer wife Sally Tuffin, refreshed the company’s ranges with Walter Moorcroft at the design helm until his retirement in 1987. More new energy flowed in 1993 with the appointment of Rachel Bishop as only the fourth designer at the company in over a century. In 1997, a new age was ushered in with the founding of the Moorcroft Design Studio, which employed a team of designers led by Bishop.
Florian Ware was decorated using a technique called tube-lining, where the outline of a design was piped in lines onto the body of a piece by hand using liquid clay known as ‘slip’. A little like icing a cake! This gave the slightly raised outlines of a pattern, which could then be filled in with colours.
And what amazing patterns they were - Moorcroft hit the style nail directly on the head by creating detailed patterns that followed the dominant Art Nouveau style of the day. Flowers and foliage were delineated in complex, curving lines and bold colours that also echoed Moorish ceramics, hitting on another style trend of the period. His eye for proportion and pattern, meticulous attention to detail, and quality control led to orders from top deck
He reintroduced new, bolder coloured takes on his widely popular Florian wares, and also produced new patterns including landscapes, mushrooms, and other flora, fruits and fauna. But it was always British flowers that sat at the heart of his designs, each delicately delineated in tube-lining. In 1928, more success came when Queen Mary awarded him the Royal Warrant.
Adapting to the colours and styles of the day, the new company blossomed and bore fruit, and was in a healthy state when William died in 1945 and was succeeded by his son Walter. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Walter continued to grow the company’s portfolio of floral designs by introducing new patterns including exotic flowers, and continuing popular ranges, often by introducing dramatic new colourways. The Liberty family’s interest was bought out in 1962 and the company continued to prosper into
Nearly all Moorcroft is sought-after and, although prices have dropped in general in the past decade or so, they have remained firm since then. Many elegant and vibrant pieces from across the ages can be found for around £50-900, with long running patterns such as Pomegranate tending to be the most affordable. The highest prices, often into the thousands of pounds, are paid for landscape designs such as Hazeldene, with its tall trees, and the best of William’s Florian Wares. Shapes abound, from elegantly tall Art Nouveau vase forms to practical bowls, to broad baluster vases that show the patterns that Moorcroft is loved for internationally off to their best.
A large 1930s Moorcroft Pottery ‘Wisteria Plum’ vase, designed by William Moorcroft, with typically bold 1930s colours.
A modern Moorcroft Pottery limited edition ‘Cottingley’ vase, designed by Emma Bossons in 2011, numbered 21 from an edition of 150.
Take a walk on the wild side…
Harry Roberts, Marketing Director at Simply Luxury Escapes, recently embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Rwanda and Uganda, where he trekked with gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Here he recounts his memories of this incredible journey…
Gorilla trekking is something I never imagined I'd have the chance to experience, and, in truth, it wasn’t even on my radar. However, now that I’ve done it, I’d encourage everyone to add it to their bucket list. There are only three places in the world to trek with gorillas: Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo, and I can confidently say it’s worth every effort.
I flew with RwandAir, which was a pleasant experience, into Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. For those with more time, I’d recommend spending a night there so you can properly explore the city and also learn about the tragic genocide that occurred only three decades ago.
The six-hour drive from Kigali to Uganda is scenic and was split up with a lunch stop overlooking Volcanoes National Park which offers breathtaking views and a window into Rwanda’s local culture.
After crossing into Uganda, a two-hour drive up into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest brought us to our base.
On arrival at the Four Gorillas Lodge, the staff greeted us with a hot towel and a refreshing mango smoothie. While they took care of our bags, we relaxed in the cosy lounge, gazing out over the lush forest canopy.
The lodge’s individual, spacious cottages each feature a verandah, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the
The gorilla family was nestled among the foliage and included a magnificent silverback male, four females, and three playful babies, who swung from branches and tussled with one another
dense greenery around us, the air was filled with the gentle sounds of birds and insects. We were fortunate to have clear, blue skies, as rain is common in this area.
After an hour and a half of trekking along well-worn paths (in part, due to the forest’s resident elephants), we followed the guides off-trail, where trackers had located a gorilla family. After a final briefing on how to behave around the gorillas, we approached to see them nestled among the foliage.
The family included a magnificent silverback male, four females, and three playful babies, who swung from branches and tussled with one another. We were astoundingly close – just two meters, or perhaps even less. The gorillas were calm and gentle, seemingly unbothered as they sat peacefully munching leaves. The babies, meanwhile, delighted us by posing and putting on a playful show. It was one of those surreal moments where you have to pinch yourself to believe it’s real.
We spent an hour observing these incredible animals before leaving them in peace. The walk back allowed us to reflect on the encounter, and every person in our group agreed it was the most aweinspiring experience they’d had.
For nature lovers and anyone seeking a truly unforgettable adventure, I can’t recommend a trip to see the gorillas enough. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an experience
sights and sounds of the forest. The main restaurant serves fresh, locally inspired cuisine, and evenings spent by the fire were a perfect way to end each day.
Following breakfast on our first morning, we drove about 10 minutes to the gorilla trekking base. After signing in, we were treated to a traditional dance by a local women’s group, followed by a safety briefing. The trek began with a couple of local guides who knew every twist and turn of the forest. They stayed in contact with trackers positioned further along the path, who had traced the gorillas to the area they’d been the night before. With
you’ll carry with you forever. It may take some effort to get there, but believe me, it’s worth every moment of the journey.
I can honestly say that my journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a testament to the profound impact of seeing wildlife up close in its natural setting. This unique experience serves as a reminder of the beauty and importance of preserving our world’s wild places.
Visit Simply Luxury Escapes 7 London Road, Tunbridge Wells or head to www.simplyluxuryescapes.co.uk 01892 576777
A warm welcome awaits all guests
We are now open to all, seven days a week, for drinks, bites and live entertainment. So, you can just relax and enjoy your Quantum, your way.
Quantum is a unique and stylish bar, cafe and events venue located on the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re after coffee and cake, cocktails and canapes, an exclusive venue for an event or a just quiet place to work, we’d love to meet you.
Our wine and cocktail bar blends modern style with a touch of history including a 1912 baby grand piano and exclusive celebrity art pieces. Or why not enjoy our Boho-inspired seated sports lounge serving great food and drinks whilst watching live rugby, tennis, football or golf. And if you just want somewhere to work from for a few hours, we’ve got you. Our ultra-fast wifi and bottomless coffee will keep you going.
Quantum is also available for private hire, perfect for private and corporate events, celebrations and wedding receptions. Our venue and team are sure help elevate your guests experience with versatile options tailored to your requirements.
