Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine January 2025

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Building on success

Discover why the successful collaboration between Atelier de Linde Architects and SJD Projects is changing the landscape of property development

FUTURE GOALS

Our business experts share their predictions for 2025

THE HEAT’S ON HOSPITALITY How new legislation will impact our local pubs and restaurants

FRIEND OR FOE? Should AI be used as a force for good for your company

THE GREAT ESCAPE It's time to start planning your next luxury holiday

HOT PROPERTY All the latest news from the sector and dream interior schemes

JANUARY 2025

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Welcome

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Building on success

Discover why the successful collaboration between Atelier de Linde Architects and SJD Projects is changing the landscape of property development

FUTURE GOALS

Our business experts share their predictions for 2025

THE HEAT’S ON HOSPITALITY How new legislation will impact our local pubs and restaurants

FRIEND OR FOE? Should AI be used as a force for good for your company

THE GREAT ESCAPE It's time to start planning your next luxury holiday

HOT PROPERTY All the latest news from the sector and dream interior schemes

JANUARY 2025

EDITOR Eileen Leahy DESIGN MANAGER Jason Stubbs PHOTOGRAPHY John Knight COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Courtney Smith ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Robin Singer DISTRIBUTION MANAGER George Percy EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore

H

ello and welcome to your first edition of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine

for 2025.

Before I get started on the fantastic content we have for you this month, I just wanted to wish all our readers and advertisers all good things for the year that lies ahead and to thank you for all your support since we launched last May. It has been wonderful to receive so much of it and to know that our publication is so valued in our town and borough. We have lots to share with you as the year progresses and we head towards our first birthday so stay tuned!

And now a little on our cover stars... We are delighted to bring you an exclusive interview with Tara de Linde and Angie Pool, co´ founders of architect firm Atelier de Linde and Stephen Donnelly who started his property company SJD Projects over 20 years ago.

In this month’s edition they tell us about their pioneering collaboration which sees them joining forces to offer both residential and commercial clients a seamless turnkey service to help them achieve a successful and stressfree development. It’s an inspired idea that is already proving to be extremely popular and effective.

We think you’ll agree that this is the way forward when embarking on a self-build, commercial development or plot sale.

Elsewhere we have some interesting predictions from a few of our business experts on where they see their particular sectors heading in 2025. From how the legal, property and recruitment markets are thinking to how travel, tourism and retail will be affected, there is something to interest every one of our readers.

We also talk to Gemma Farina of GFHR as she heads into her impressive 15th year of business.

She tells us about how she set up her company after having her baby and how it has grown to become a very prescriptive and proactive offering for the local Human Resources market. If you want to be inspired then read her advice!

As usual we have plenty of news from the latest networking events and parties, plus some great lifestyle content including where to travel this year, the coolest places to eat and hang out and ideas on how you can start 2025 off in the most productive way.

Enjoy the edition, Eileen Find us at: www.twbusinessmagazine.com @twbusiness_magazine @TWBizMag

CHEIF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Nick Moore

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

Printed by:

Media & Marketing

© Copyright 2024. Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine and JJL Media & Marketing Ltd are fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors and omissions. We can under no circumstance be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the website or magazine. We cannot be held responsible or liable for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials or photography or any other such material supplied by a third party. The views and opinions expressed within our publications are not necessarily those of the publisher or Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine or any featured parties.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

JAN 2025

Contents

06

Business News: What’s happening in our commercial community

10

County News: Will devolution cause a revolution?

12

Hospitality hurts: Entrepreneur Brian Whiting on where restaurants and pubs are right now

14

Social scene: A round-up of the month’s best parties and networking events

20

Future vision: We ask some of our experts for their thoughts on what 2025 will bring

12

26

24 24

Tech steps: How AI can help and also hinder your business

26

Building on success: Atelier de Linde and SJD Projects on their mutually beneficial partnership

30

Human touch: We meet Gemma Farina the founder of GFHR

42

Legal news: A round-up of what’s happening in our legal landscape

84

Dates for your diary: The best cultural events not to miss this month

86

Travel bug: Where to escape to in 2025

30

84

experts

5

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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

Dee Airey

Alex Green

CEO, RTW Together

Founder, Maddisons Residential

Mark Hill

Photographer & Visibility Strategist

Antiques Expert

Darren Austin

Matthew Hill

Director, Synergee

Deborah Richards

Neil Simmons ManagingDirector, TN Recruits

Founder, Private Medical Insurance Brokers

Siobhan Stirling

Managing Director, Sharp Minds

Clare Lush-Mansell

Jon Traquair

Sophie Forrest-Lavery

Becky Moran

Brian Whiting

Jesse Fuller

Gillian Palmer

Gary Valentine

David Brown Founder, Futurehand Media

Founder, My Tunbridge Wells

CEO, TN Lettings

Founder, The Forrest Group

Slimming World Consultant & Team Developer

Jess Gibson

Managing Director, The TN Card

Founder, Fixio

Founder, The Finance Hub

CEO W&H Pubs

Managing Funeral Director & LAFD President

Sarah Raine

Director, Colley Raine & Associates

6

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Budget adds to woes for hospice already facing tough challenges

BY RICHARD MOORE Hospice in the Weald is having to find an extra £250,000 this year because of the Government’s new budget demands.

This is because of changes to employers’ National Insurance Contributions, announced in the Autumn Budget and it will be a cost they have to bear every year going forward.

Hospice in the Weald provides care, free of charge, to terminally ill people and their families in West Kent and East Sussex.

Independent of the NHS, it needs to raise £8million each year to fund its work. Last financial year the hospice helped more than 2,600 people across all its services.

Of these, 1,686 were supported in their own homes.

The increase comes at a time when the Pembury-based facility is already managing other challenges which have led to the temporary closure of its Cottage Hospice, at Five Ashes near Mayfield, for end-of-life care.

“Like many healthcare providers, we are impacted by the national shortage of nursing staff, including experienced

The Cottage Hospice

“The hospice has aligned pay with NHS rates to help retain and attract more nurses, paramedics and clinical nurse specialists”

Hospice in the Weald Pembury facility palliative care nurses whose specialist skills are essential to our work,” a spokesperson told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

“At the same time, trends indicate more people want end-of-life care at home, and we are reviewing services to reflect this.

This combination of shifting demand and staffing challenges has led us to make some temporary adjustments to how we deliver in-patient care.”

Last year the decision was made to temporarily consolidate all in-patient care at Pembury which has 15 beds.

Cottage Hospice, which has ten bedrooms is currently being used to provide counselling and out-patient appointments, which helps to support

people across the catchment area.

“We continually review the services we provide and are committed to using Cottage Hospice to meet the current need. We anticipate that will include inpatient care once we can operate the site with safe staffing levels,” explained the spokesperson.

To address workforce challenges the hospice has aligned pay with NHS rates to help retain and attract more nurses, paramedics, and clinical nurse specialists.

It also supports Hospice UK’s calls for greater government investment in palliative care, which is vital for patients and families and helps to ease pressure on the NHS. No staff cuts are being made.

Director of Care Services Paul Madden said: “We know how vital hospice care is to families in our community, and that’s why we took the difficult decision to consolidate in-patient services.

“This ensures we can provide safe, high-quality care while addressing the challenges posed by the national shortage of palliative care nurses and the demand for more care at home.

“Our focus remains on meeting the needs of patients and their loved ones, offering the same exceptional care and support in every setting, whether at home, in out-patient clinics, or at one of our sites. We are immensely grateful for the continued understanding and support of our community as we navigate these challenges together.

“We ask that people continue to show their support for the Hospice so we can continue to operate and help people in our community.

“We encourage nurses and healthcare professionals to join our team, and of course, welcome more volunteers to boost our efforts across the organisation.” www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

7

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NEWS

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

BY JONATHAN BANKS Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has approved an extra £4.5million spend on refurbishment work on the car park at Royal Victoria Place (RVP) shopping centre.

This takes the council’s total spend on the project to £9milion.

The money is being used for urgent repair work and ‘will improve the visitor experience for car park users’ while at the same time demonstrate ‘the council’s commitment to investing in the town centre’.

RVP was previously owned by British Land and under the terms of the lease they were responsible for managing works to the car park while the Council was liable for costs.

In 2019 the Council contacted British Land about the need for urgent repairs.

Temporary work was carried out and British Land surveys indicated work costing up to £4.5m was necessary.

Acquiring the shopping centre in 2023 put the Council fully in control of the refurbishment project. More extensive surveys identified further areas of concern, which together with the rise in construction costs and materials, have seen total overall costs rise to £9m.

Photograph: Google maps

Car park’s £9m facelift shows council’s commitment to town centre investment

The work will mean better accessibility in the car park, more bays for Blue Badge holders, better and more cost-effective lighting, rapid EV chargers, enhanced WiFi and easier online payment.

The Cabinet member for Economic Development Cllr Justine Rutland said: "This refurbishment is an important investment that will give confidence to businesses who are already in Tunbridge Wells, and those who are considering coming to Tunbridge Wells.

“The benefits to creating a more welcoming and more modern car park are very clear,

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.

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Take several hours (or in some cases days/weeks!) to resolve your problems

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Take huge amounts of time to respond to queries

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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 testimonials’

Contact us at helpme@tecwork.co.uk or call us on 01892 578666. www.tecwork.co.uk

and align with the RVP business plan.”

The Borough Council Director of Finance, Policy & Development Lee Colyer said: "As Royal Victoria Place becomes increasingly more vibrant with new tenants and new activities, and as footfall increases, the works to the car park are well-timed.

“Car park users have said they would like to see wider bays and better accessibility and I am pleased that we have been able to include these things in the plans."

There are also plans to install solar panels on the top of the car park which will offset energy costs in the building.

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Sexual harassment in the workplace

A rich heritage reborn Local independent fine jeweller opens its second store in iconic Tunbridge Wells location Last month saw the highly anticipated opening of Walsh at George Farrer, marking a new chapter of Walsh Bros jewellers, a long-standing Tunbridge Wells gem of a local business, which has taken over the site of a previous heritage site.

Located at 19 High Street, in a stunning Grade II listed building, this expansion by Walsh Bros ‘blends timeless heritage with modern craftsmanship’.

The exciting new venture builds on the vision of Walsh Bros’ Richard Burrow, who began his jewellery career in 1986 with F. Hinds in Tonbridge, before gaining experience in various independent jewellers.

In 2003, Richard took over the ownership of Walsh Bros Jewellers on Mount Pleasant Road, which is revered for its exceptional customer service, offering antique and modern jewellery, high-quality repairs and bespoke, handmade jewellery.

A spokesperson for the jewellery brand said: “Renowned for its exquisite jewellery and unparalleled expertise, Walsh Bros proudly brings its legacy to the iconic George Farrer Jewellers, a historic site established in 1876.

“Honouring the legacy of George Farrer, Walsh Bros has reinstated his name in its trading identity, while carefully preserving the building’s ornate frontage and period interiors.”

Heading up the new venture is Alexia Taylor, a long-standing member of the Walsh Bros team who has over 12 years of dedication to the craft.

“Alexia’s credentials are exemplary: she is a Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA), a Diamond Diploma holder (DGA), and a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Applied Jewellery Professional,” added the spokesperson.

Earlier this year, Alexia also took the esteemed role of Chair of the National Association of Jewellers’ Professional and Technical Standards Group. She is also a Member of the Institute of Registered Valuers.

“Walsh at George Farrer’s introduces a rare offering: an exclusive in-house jewellery valuation service, led by Alexia.

This service is only available at a few jewellers in the UK so this honour enhances the store’s reputation as a destination for those seeking expert guidance and craftsmanship,” said the Walsh Bros spokesperson.

“Walsh Bros’ commitment to preserving the legacy of George Farrer ensures the historic charm of this beloved site will continue to shine. With both Alexia Taylor and Richard Burrow’s expertise, customers can expect an unparalleled experience of fine jewellery, valuations, and exceptional service.”

By Natasha Smith, Senior Associate, Employment, The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 came into force in October 2024. This introduced a new positive legal obligation on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent the sexual harassment of workers – the ‘preventative duty’.

If an employer breaches this duty, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has the power to take enforcement action. Employment Tribunals will also have power to increase compensation by up to 25%.

What is sexual harassment?

‘Unwanted conduct of a sexual nature which has the purpose or effect of violating a worker’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment’.

Sexual harassment of a worker can be committed by: •

Another worker

•

An agent acting on behalf of the employer

•

A third party

There are various third parties that could sexually harass a worker in the course of employment: customers, clients, service users, patients, friends and family of colleagues or members of the public.

What is reasonable will vary and factors such as the employer’s size, sector, resources and working environment will be considered. It is an objective test and different employers may try to prevent sexual harassment in different ways, but no employer is exempt from the duty.

All employers should therefore: •

Consider the risks of sexual harassment and steps it could take to reduce risk;

•

Consider which of those steps it would be reasonable for it to take; and

•

Implement those steps.

The rationale behind this legislation is that prevention is better than cure. Having an inclusive culture, training staff about what is and what is not acceptable and ensuring there is an effective reporting process in place will be a good starting point.

If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact Natasha Smith by email: nes@cooperburnett.com or tel: 01892 515022.

www.cooperburnett.com

This blog is not intended as legal advice that can be relied upon and CooperBurnett LLP does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of its contents.

9

COUNTY NEWS

10

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Time to play the devolution game This year sees the government on a mission to transfer powers from Whitehall out to the regions. 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, looks at what devolution might mean for the county…

T

here’ll be many businesses who might not see the government’s idea of transferring powers from Whitehall as important, but devolution is on the way as Labour fast-tracks the transfer of power. It means the political landscape – including that of Tunbridge Wells – is set to change beyond all recognition. So, what could it mean for Kent and Medway? And why should it matter to businesses?

Devolution is likely to lead to a strategic authority and three or four unitary councils, formed by some combination of mergers of the existing Kent County Council, Medway Council and 12 borough councils.

“

We’ve got to hope our current councils don’t take their eye off the ball while they contemplate the future map of local government in Kent – at the expense of business

”

SIZE MATTERS When it comes to deciding upon the geography for future local government devolution agreements, it looks like Kent ticks the boxes in terms of scale (with a preference for more than 1.5 million people per strategic authority), and having an economically viable geography. It also has an ability to align the footprint of public service and local identity.

FOLLOW THE MONEY Given the pressure on local government finances, a key motivation for signing up to the devolution agenda will be all about getting a financial settlement that will help make things happen locally.

PLAY NICELY The devolution proposals also introduce a ministerial directive to compel areas

to establish strategic authorities if they are unable to agree – or to prevent small devolution islands being left out of the process. This simple approach may incentivise areas to reach consensus and avoid running the risk of ministers being forced to step in. For this to work there can be no embarrassing ‘last person picked to play football in the playground’ scenario.

The government has made it plain that individual local authorities will not be eligible for mayoral devolution, forcing the new unitary authorities to join with neighbouring areas across one or several historic county areas – including Kent.

A QUESTION OF DEMOCRACY It looks likely the government will need to postpone local elections until May 2026 – so there’s a debate to be had over local democracy, but that’s for another day. With Kent big enough to stand alone, we could have Kent Strategic Authority headed up by its own Mayor.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY We’ve got to hope our current councils don’t take their eye off the ball while they contemplate the future map of local government in Kent – at the expense of

business. Businesses will need to know what’s being done to support them and help deliver much-needed national and local growth.

NEXT STEPS Overall, the extra clarity around the process for widening devolution to the rest of England is welcome – and it’s inevitable that the timescales for application will be tight, with March envisaged for a final submission.

It’s going to be a busy period of devolution negotiations in many parts of the country, including Kent and Medway – and also Tunbridge Wells.

COUNTY NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

11

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Should you cut your marketing and PR budget in 2025?

Business in 2025 is set to be more expensive, more complex and more challenging. As companies look to balance the books, marketing and PR are often in the first line of cuts. But the best research advises that when the going gets tough, the tough keep marketing. The Managing Director of marketing and PR agency, Sharp Minds Communications, Siobhan Stirling, explains why.

2025 is likely to be challenging for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Alongside much publicised increased costs – such as employers’ National Insurance Contributions, the National Living Wage and business rates – companies will also be grappling with Day 1 employment rights and Trump’s threatened tariffs.

This landscape means that many businesses will necessarily be reviewing every line of expense.

While it may be an easy economy to scale back marketing and PR, this can have long-term consequences.

The most extensive research on surviving downturns was published in the Harvard Business Review. Authors Gulait, Nohria and Wohlgezogen found that businesses typically follow one of three routes during a recession.

Prevention strategies This defensive approach looks to cut costs and risks. The benefit is that when the economy starts picking up, defensive businesses often emerge lean and competitive. The downside is that they risk losing significant market share.

Promotion-focused strategies This is a more aggressive approach, investing in offensive moves to get ahead of the competition, but without analysing costs and addressing operational issues that could provide a competitive advantage in the long term. The upside is often an increase in market share, but at the cost of a loss of relative competitiveness compared to defensive rivals.

Progressive strategies The authors use the term ‘pragmatic strategies’ for businesses that adopt a mix of prevention and promotion strategies. But the companies that emerge strongest from recessions are those that successfully combine an optimal balance of defensive and offensive measures – which they coin ‘progressive strategies’ – as this enables them to both maintain or win market share while also competing on costs.

2025 is likely to test entrepreneurial and leadership skills to the max.

While there are always winners and losers in the shifting economic landscape, businesses that hold their nerve and continue to invest in their brand while making operational and cost efficiencies will position themselves to emerge strongest.

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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.

NEWS

12

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Pub prices will increase this year but ‘don’t shoot the messenger’ BUDGET WATCH

By Richard Moore Tunbridge Wells businessman Brian Whiting owns and operates four popular gastro pubs in the area – all of which have collectively been hit with a post-budget bill for £160,000.

That’s the extra money he will have to find to meet additional costs piled on the hospitality sector, and others, by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

So, what does he think the balance sheet of his business WH Pubs will look like at the end of 2025?

“Right, well at this moment I would bite your arm off if we break even,” he told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

“To put this into context, the net

result before corporation tax for year ending September 2023 was £176,000. For the 12 months to September 2024 the profit, before tax, was only £30,000

”

“When we put prices up, so we don’t go out of business, I do hope paying customers realise we are not doing this because we want to ... we are doing it to survive.”

WH Pubs currently employs 143 people across the four family-run businesses which have sites in Chiddingstone Causeway, Shipbourne and Meopham.

“To put this into context, the net result before corporation tax for year ending 30 September 2023 was £176,000. And for the 12 months to September 2024 the profit, before tax, was only £30,000. This was the impact of the utility and minimum wage increases.

“The budget will have erased 91% of the 2023 profit and turned the small profit in 2024 into a loss of £130,000. It will also have the effect of increasing wage percentage by 2%. So, for example, for the year ended 30 Sept 2024, the wage percentage was 43%, but it would have

RISK ASSESMENT: One of Brian Whiting's pubs is The Chaser in Shipbourne been 45% under these new budget rules.”

Brian Whiting started life as a chef working at The Savoy in London before he moved onto a Roux brothers’ restaurant in Covent Garden in the mid 1980s. He then moved into pubs, taking control of The Hare in Langton Green, which he ran for more than 10 years.

Brian then started up his own operation with The Chaser Inn at Shipbourne 25 years ago with the help of his friend Chris Hammond – hence the B&W moniker.

Over the next few years Brian Whiting then built the group up to eight pubs. But sadly that dropped to four after the Covid pandemic. Here the publican and hospitality entrepreneur answers a few more of our questions…

So Brian, before the budget how was 2025 shaping up for WH Pubs?

“We had just endured two years of crazypriced utilities, which was coming out at over £90,000 a pub per year. The end to this was in sight and we expected to see a drop in these prices for 2025 - never mind the impact of food inflation, higher wages etc. I did think we had a chance to get back on top.”

And now, post budget, what tough choices are you facing?

“An increase to the whole operation of over £160,000! This alone is due to the

headline increases we are now facing. It will be impossible to keep the business going, unless we change and adapt our model. One thing is for certain - and please don’t blame the messenger – but prices will go up.”

Do you think that your four pubs going to survive?

“We have some fantastic customers who I’m sure will understand the situation we have been forced into and will carry on supporting us. We are not a big PLC who have massive backing - unlike my old pub The Hare in Langton Green and others that have this sort of operation.

Independent family-run like me, employ local people and support local suppliers so I hope customers consider these factors when deciding where they will spend their hard-earned money.”

Realistically speaking, what would you like to see Government do next?

“Let’s ignore the word realistically as they should reduce VAT for the hospitality industry which is what the rest of Europe has done for years. Twenty percent of the bill is just wrong going to the government - along with all the other taxes collected in hospitality like duty, business rates, PAYE, National insurance etc.”

Website: whpubs.co.uk Instagram: @wh_pubs_

THE FOUR WH PUBS HIT BY THE BUDGET ARE:

HOW THE COSTS ALL ADD UP...

The Chaser Inn, Shipbourne TN11 9PE

Higher National Insurance Contributions

£67,000

Increased National Minimum Wage rates

£52,000

Additional Business rates

£41,000

Total cost to WH Pubs Ltd

£160,000

The Little Brown Jug Nr Penshurst TN11 8JJ The Cricketers Inn Meopham DA13 0QA The Rose & Crown, Nr Orpington BR6 6BT.

A thrilling year of Growth and New Beginning for the Finance Hub Over the past three years, the finance hub has established itself as a go to expert in the financial services sector offering a comprehensive suite of financial solutions under one roof.

From mortgages and insurance to foreign exchange, pensions, investments, will writing, business loans, cashflow solutions and R&D tax credits, we have proudly supported diverse and growing community since our inception.

Looking ahead to continue our growth in 2025 we are thrilled to announce two significant collaborations that mark an exciting new chapter in our journey.

LAUNCHING TWO NEW OFFICE LOCATIONS

seek reliable guidance for their financial and business aspirations.

FORMING NEW PARTNERSHIPS We are delighted to announce an exclusive business collaboration with two new property focused partners; The Latchmere House Partnership – a collective of specialist property professionals; and Presence & Co, who offer bespoke residential and commercial property management solutions. Both are powerhouses in the property industry and we are excited about the enhancement to our property focused offering these new partnerships bring.

STARTING 2025 WITH THE BANG

We are excited to launch two new Finance Hub locations; in Canterbury and London.

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14

SOCIAL SCENE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Collective spirit

enTWine – the business forum for Tunbridge Wells – held its Christmas party at the Old Auction House on The Pantiles on Thursday 12 December. It was a fun festive evening and featured enTWine’s traditional break-out rooms.

Taking ‘A Christmas Carol’ as the inspiration, members talked about gifts.

The lead question was ‘what gift for your business do you wish you would have been given at the start of your career, today and before you end your career?’ enTWine was created in October 2020 by three Tunbridge Wells-based business owners and past Presidents of West Kent Chamber of Commerce and Industry

– Lynne Gadsden from Eight Wealth Management, Pam Loch from Loch Associates Group and Victoria Sampson from CooperBurnett. It has the philosophy – we listen, we share, we benefit.

Members got into the Christmas spirit and the award for ‘Best Festive Dress’ went to Richard Maher from Sankey’s, while Nick Brandon from tecwork was ‘highly commended’. There was also an opportunity to get creative and the winner of the ‘festive origami’ competition went to Vicki Thornhill from West Kent Business.

Find out more by visiting the enTWine Tunbridge Wells page on LinkedIn

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

SOCIAL SCENE

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Social network

Images: Isaac Henry Powell This year marked the fifth annual RTW Media Group Christmas Party.

The event, which was held at the Hotel du Vin for the third time, welcomed 65 leaders from local and international media companies, including writers, producers, videographers, and executives from PR and advertising agencies.

With over 500 members, the RTW Media Group remains free to join, offering 15 themed WhatsApp groups and regular meet-ups throughout the year.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

A celebration

O

n December 18 Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine hosted the last of its networking soirees for 2024.

Since the magazine launched in May last year it has gone from strength to strength, doubling its pagination in just a few months thanks to its ever-growing number of committed advertisers, engaging interviews and informative features.

"It was great to have over 60 members attend our December Business Club event at Sankey's, including a few new members

who have recently joined the club," said the magazine's founder and publisher Nick Moore.

"The event helped celebrate a successful inaugural year and gave us a chance to thank those local business owners and leaders who have supported the magazine since its launch."

The title's editor, Eileen Leahy added: "We look forward to building on our success so far and have some very exciting plans for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine in 2025."

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Is the future bright for 2025?

With a new year comes new challenges, opportunities and goals – especially in our corporate, retail, financial, property and hospitality sectors. We asked some of our trusted leading business experts for their thoughts on everything from what the repercussions of Labour’s first budget under Sir Keir Starmer will have on the future economy as well as what trends they predict seeing in the commercial arena LEGAL SECTOR Joseph Oates and Victoria Sampson, Partners and co-leads of CooperBurnett LLP “There will be a certain amount of ‘wait and see’ but we are not standing still” Although without the benefit of a crystal ball, following announcements in the recent budget and ongoing changes in law, such as the Employment Rights Bill, we are aware of the challenges facing our clients at the moment.

We are working with our Corporate clients to help them navigate changes to NI contributions and employment law and the impact those might have on

areas such as M&A (mergers and acquisitions), recruitment and business growth. And, we are supporting our Private Clients, as they navigate changes to Inheritance Tax in 2026, alterations to Stamp Duty Land Tax in April and a growth in pre-nups.

As a firm, we have seen good times and bad over four decades and have supported clients through both. This year, there will be a certain amount of ‘wait and see’ but we are not standing still. In fulfilment of our

ambitious growth strategy CooperBurnett continues to add to its team, in particular increasing our expertise in areas such as construction and planning, while we are also continuing to invest and support our lawyers as they grow their careers here.

TeamCB is ready, willing and able to meet any challenges and opportunities that come our way in 2025. www.coopercooperburnett.com

ARCHITECTURE & DEVELOPMENT Tara de Linde – RIBA, Director, Atelier de Linde Ltd. “The government’s target of 1.5 million homes could force policy makers to look holistically at regulation” Our planning system is odd. It is comprised of policies that are supposedly prescriptive but are in fact ‘subject to interpretation’ and it is within these fissures that negotiating takes place.

Negotiating is relevant as ultimately it is what facilitates planning progress, like case law or the self-repairing behaviour of

organic matter.

The cracks though are widening. Design items that used to sit safely in the relatively low-risk zone of Building Control are now encroaching the more precarious zone of Planning.

Demands around ecology, energy cycles and drainage are being made – often at great cost to the applicant – before the anxiously awaited Planning nod. What we are witnessing is different parts of a system that are changing at different rates. Whilst energy efficiency

mandates are accelerating, planning policy is shuffling along at a temperate pace.

Add to the mix the government’s target of 1.5 million homes and we’re looking at fissures that are morphing into tectonic plate subductions. Perhaps this is what is needed. In the same way that Covid propelled us into embracing technology that lay dormant at our feet, so now, this challenge could force policy makers to look holistically at regulation and streamline the process in a way that won't stifle development or compromise design quality. www.atelierdelinde.co.uk

way to capture attention.

The explosion of podcasting will provide an alternative platform for more discursive engagement, creating the basis of longer-form content that can be repurposed to meet your audiences on their preferred channels, such as short social clips, blogs or longer white papers.

But to capture hearts and minds, brands will have to create content that challenges, excites and inspires consumers by creating entertaining, unique digital experiences. With millennials and Gen Z now making up around 40% of the population, companies will need to show how they align with

their generational values, particularly demonstrating brand authenticity, commitment to diversity and environmentally sustainable policies.

It's a tall order, but AI may provide some assistance. While it needs to be used judiciously – especially as obvious AIgenerated content can seriously undermine the authenticity that consumers increasingly value – AI can take some of the grunt work out of mar-comms (for example personalising campaigns). This can allow internal teams and agencies to focus their expertise on delivering the spark of imagination required to exceed customer expectations. www.sharpminds.agency

MARKETING & PR Siobhan Stirling, Founder and Managing Director, Sharp Minds Communications “Brands will have to create content that challenges, excites and inspires consumers, aligning with generational values” The challenge for brands this year will be to capture consumer attention in an increasingly crowded and rapidly evolving landscape – at a time of likely shaky consumer confidence.

Effective marketing and communications strategies will be built on genuine engagement and authentic, personalised content.

Shifting consumer preferences and an oversaturated digital market mean that short-form videos will continue to dominate social strategies as an efficient

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RENTAL MARKET Becky Moran, Founder and Director of TN Lettings “Properties are going to auction due to increases in mortgages but this allows low value investors to add to their portfolios” With 2024 being a rollercoaster of a year in terms of the rental market, I feel excited about what 2025 has in store for growth in the market for renters and landlords. There is obviously some concern with the Renters Reform Bill but I honestly don’t think it’s anything to currently

worry about - and if you have a good letting agent, they will make sure this works for you and your property. I believe the market will be busy with lots more buy to let properties being purchased through Limited companies to take advantage of the tax benefits and also the stamp duty being at the lower level.

This will naturally create more stock for the renter to be able to pick and choose a little more and steady rents

for the coming year hopefully creating some stability but also making renting more achievable for the tenant.

There are lots of properties going to the auction market due to increases in mortgage payments as people come out of their fixed rates and this allows the clever low value investors to add to their portfolios. To summarise, our view is the market will get better with more properties to rent and investors gaining properties that others just cant afford to keep, making the whole rental market keep moving for the year ahead and allowing people to find their ideal home. www.tnlettings.co.uk

NEW BUSINESS Chris Weller, MD, Charles Century Estate Agents “We are expecting the market in 2025 to be year on year busier with prices not drastically changing in any direction” The new Labour government has made an impact on the housing market. To be expected there was a slow down due to the impending budget, which was better than most expectations, but subsequently we have seen a slowdown in growth and in turn the Bank of England haven't reduced interest rates as much

as we were expecting. We have also seen stamp duty changes from the 1st April for the lower threshold which will be a negative impact on the markets.

The market in November became increasingly busier due to the upper housing echelons starting to move and more houses going under offer around £800,000 to £1,000,000 and the trickle down to other price points.

Charles Century is expecting the market in 2025/2026 to be year

on year busier with prices not drastically changing in any direction.

Charles Century was set up in the middle of 2024 and came off the back of working within the industry for 10 + years and wanting give a better experience than previous estate agents. We are a traditional agent with modern methods to sell properties within East Sussex and Kent. www.charlescentury.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

HEALTH & INSURANCE Matthew Hill, Founder and Managing Director of PMI Brokers “For businesses, the rising importance of employee wellbeing is shaping corporate health insurance strategies” The health insurance landscape in the UK is poised for significant evolution. Several key trends are emerging, driven by economic shifts, technological advancements, and changing consumer and business expectations.

For businesses, the rising importance of employee wellbeing is shaping corporate health insurance strategies.

Employers are increasingly offering comprehensive health plans as part of their benefits packages to attract and retain talent in a competitive job market. Customised group policies that address specific workforce needs, such as mental health support and proactive wellness, are gaining traction.

Digitalisation within the sector is also benefiting businesses. Providers are investing in AI-driven tools for faster claims processing and predictive analytics to tailor policies, ensuring companies can manage costs while delivering high-quality coverage to employees. Virtual healthcare platforms are proving invaluable for businesses

seeking to minimise absenteeism by providing quick and efficient access to medical consultations.

The cost-of-living crisis and ongoing economic challenges are prompting businesses to explore more flexible health insurance options. Modular plans allow organisations to choose coverage that aligns with their budgets while still meeting employee expectations.

In 2025, health insurance could provide not only greater affordability and flexibility but also empower companies, individuals, and families to proactively address their health and wellbeing through enhanced services and coverage options. www.pmibrokers.com

pipeline of sales agreed, as buyers look to beat the stamp duty increases that will take effect from 1st April. Overall I believe that 2025 will be a positive year for the housing market, with a probable Base Rate drop in February being a welcome stimulant. I predict that prices will rise by a fairly typical 3% to 4%.

A key focus for me at Maddisons will be to reduce average transaction times. The time to reach completion once an offer is agreed is currently an

eye-watering 16 weeks, which in my opinion is unacceptable.

One of the hardest parts of my job is breaking the devastating news to a buyer or seller that their home moving dreams have shattered, and the chance of a collapsed deal increases as time passes. More needs to be done to make sure that sellers are legally prepared, with targets set to achieve exchange of contracts, and agents doing all they can to maintain PMS momentum in the deal.

3155 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

HOUSING MARKET Deborah Richards, Founder and Managing Partner, Maddisons Residential “A key focus for our business will be to reduce average transaction times down from an eyewatering 16 weeks” 2024 has been a year of stops and starts for the property market, with the General Election in the spring and then the budget in the autumn creating uncertainty.

Overall though, sales volumes were strong, although price growth remained mooted as buyer and seller thoughts on property values continued to diverge.

Starting off in 2025, we have a large

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TRAVEL & TOURISM Kathryn Peel, co-founder of Peel+Williams Travel, Consumer & Lifestyle PR “Gen Z is driving demand for authentic, tech-driven, and eco-friendly travel experiences, while ‘Set Jetting’, visiting film and TV locations, is gaining momentum” Travel in 2025 will be shaped by evolving lifestyles, prioritising flexibility, wellbeing, and connection. As people seek richer experiences, destinations offering authenticity, cultural immersion, and sustainability will take centre stage. From eco-conscious adventures to wellnessfocused retreats, travellers are placing

greater value on journeys that nourish both mind and body.

Bleisure travel (combining work and leisure) remains popular as remote work provides flexibility for professionals to explore.

Similarly, Set Jetting (visiting film and TV locations) will gain momentum, driven by streaming platforms and social media trends. Boomers are choosing to spend on experiences over saving, embracing travel as a way to fulfil lifelong dreams.

Trends like Slow Travel and Sustainable Travel reflect an increasing desire for

deeper connections with local cultures, longer stays, and lower environmental impact. Wellness integrated with nature, such as forest bathing and yoga, appeals to travellers seeking relaxation and healing in natural settings.

Generational preferences are diversifying. Gen Z is driving demand for authentic, techdriven, and eco-friendly travel experiences, often shared via social media and AI tools will revolutionise travel planning with personalised, efficient itineraries and greener options.” www.peelwilliams.com

a balance. While technology can handle repetitive tasks, the human element remains critical in building trust and ensuring a positive experience for candidates.

Flexibility in recruitment models will also take centre stage.

Companies will need to be more agile, whether that’s through engaging passive talent, offering competitive compensation, or adapting quickly to market shifts. Employers who embrace this fluid approach will be better positioned to secure top talent.

Additionally, a strong employer brand and

a well-defined Employee Value Proposition are becoming non-negotiable. Candidates today are discerning and value authenticity.

Businesses that clearly communicate their culture and values will have a significant edge in attracting and retaining high-calibre professionals.

Lastly, diversity, equity, and inclusion will continue to be at the heart of recruitment strategies. Companies that promote inclusive environments will not only access a broader talent pool but also benefit from greater innovation and stronger team dynamics.” www.tnrecruits.com

WORK & RECRUITMENT Neil Simmons, founder and Managing Director of TN Recruits “Businesses who clearly communicate their culture and values will have the edge in attracting and retaining high-calibre professionals” As we look ahead to 2025, the recruitment landscape will be defined by flexibility, technology, and a focus on candidate experience. The rise of AI and automation is already making recruitment more efficient, but it’s essential to strike

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Navigating the AI revolution Creative marketeer Mip Phillips is an AI transformation expert who has worked with the likes of Guinness, Halifax and DFS on previous projects. Here he shares some key information on how AI can benefit businesses...

I

n an era where technology is pivotal to competitiveness and growth, artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as a transformative force. Small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are increasingly curious about how AI can streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive revenue growth.

But what are the most pressing questions SMEs are asking about integrating AI into their businesses?

Read on to discover the answers to some of the key questions.

What is AI and How Can It Benefit My Business?

AI involves machines performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as recognising speech, making decisions, and translating languages. For businesses, AI offers numerous benefits, including operational efficiency through automation of routine tasks, enhanced data analysis capabilities, improved customer service via chatbots and creative marketing.

How Do I Start Implementing AI in My Business?

The first step in AI implementation is identifying areas within your business that will benefit most from automation or enhanced analytics. This could be customer service, inventory management, copywriting, image creation, video creation, or market analysis. SMEs should start small, experimenting with AI-powered tools that do not require heavy investment, such as ChatGPT,

Synthesia, CRM, and Chatbots.

What Are the Costs Associated with AI Implementation?

Implementing AI can vary in cost, depending on the complexity of the task and the technology adopted. Costs include the purchase of software, potential customisation, and training staff to use AI tools effectively. However, many cloudbased AI services offer scalable pricing models that are viable for SMEs, allowing businesses to pay for only what they use.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

How Can AI Improve Customer Interactions and Satisfaction?

AI can significantly enhance how businesses interact with customers.

Chatbots can provide 24/7 customer support, handling queries and solving simple issues without human intervention.

AI can also tailor marketing efforts to individual customer preferences, leading to higher engagement rates.

Mip Phillips: AI Transformation Expert Mip Phillips stands at the forefront of marketing and technological integration in business strategies.

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As the founder of MIP PHILLIPS CREATIVE MARKETING, Mip specialises in creative marketing ideas and harnessing the power of AI to solve his clients' business challenges.

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What Are the Risks and Ethical Considerations of Using AI? One of the concerns surrounding AI is data privacy and security. SMEs must ensure that customer data used by AI systems is protected and compliant with data protection regulations. Business owners should be aware of the ethical implications of AI, such as biases in AI algorithms that could lead to unfair treatment of certain customer groups.

How Do I Keep My Data Secure When Using AI Technologies?

Data security is crucial when implementing AI. Businesses should choose AI solutions that offer robust security measures and ensure compliance with international data protection laws.

Regular audits and updates of AI systems can also help prevent data breaches.

Do I Need to Hire Specialists to Manage AI Technology?

AI is only as good as the information you give it. If you don’t know what words and data to input or how to frame your questions or creative marketing brief to your generative AI, you’ll get average results at best. While some aspects of AI implementation might require technical expertise, many AI tools designed for SMEs are user-friendly, with providers offering comprehensive support. For more complex integrations, or for any

creative AI requirement it is beneficial to hire a specialist or work with a consultant.

How Can AI Help in Decision-Making Processes?

AI excels in processing vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, providing businesses with insights that would be difficult to obtain manually. This data can drive strategic decisions, from identifying new market opportunities and optimising supply chains, to driving better and smarter marketing, thereby enhancing competitiveness.

Embracing AI technology can seem daunting, but the potential benefits for SMEs are undeniable. By starting small, understanding the costs and benefits, and focusing on areas with the highest return on investment, business owners can effectively integrate AI into their operations and reap significant rewards.

Are you ready to take the next step in leveraging AI for your business? Visit my website to download a free cheat sheet that provides a step-by-step guide on how to get started with AI. Download your free AI Cheat Sheet at www.mipphillips.com/cheat-sheets

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

“It all started with the three of us discussing how best to achieve suitable planning permissions on our sites,” explains SJD’s Stephen Donnelly who founded his company more than two decades ago and has over 35 years’ experience in the property industry.

According to the company’s website, SJD delivers a bespoke, discretionary and all-encompassing land and development service where the team uses its extensive experience and contacts to help maximise clients’ assets.

“The focus of our endeavours is to provide an effective service where clients are united with their ideal development opportunity; whether it be multi-unit housing schemes, rural self builds or commercial and investment

Leading by design

Photography by www.jonknightphotography.co.uk

“

Tara de Linde and Angie Pool of Atelier de Linde Ltd architects and Stephen Donnelly of SJD Projects Ltd tell Eileen Leahy all about their pioneering collaboration which offers both residential and commercial clients a seamless turnkey service to help them achieve a successful and stress-free development…

A

nyone who has ever undertaken a self-build, a property conversion or tried to source the perfect plot on which to develop, will know the path to achieving one’s dream vision is often fraught with frustration. Tricky planning consent issues, ecological criteria to consider, escalating budgets and a few more unexpected curve balls are what you’re likely to come across if you venture down this particular route.

But the good news is thanks to a clever collaboration between two local businesses your journey to development

success - whether that’s residential or commercial - can now be relatively stressfree and highly successful.

The award-winning RIBA-chartered architectural practice Atelier de Linde (AdeL) and land and development specialists SJD Projects (SJD), both of whom are based in Tunbridge Wells, joined forces a year ago to offer clients a truly comprehensive service – and peace of mind – so you can achieve the perfect build or development for your specific needs.

So how did the partnership between SJD and AdeL come about?

Our USP is that Stephen comes in with his knowledge of land and the cost of development, and then we contribute with our experienced planning and expert design

”

opportunities,” Stephen tells me.

“I have known Tara and Angie for a while and after many discussions we came to the conclusion that between us we could offer a comprehensive service that would provide all the key elements needed to create outstanding developments.”

Tara de Linde co-established AdeL with Angie Pool in 2022. The boutique firm specialises in bespoke residential, commercial, educational and sustainable developments of all sizes - with a strong focus on exceptional design and sustainability.

She says that collaborating with SJD is something that’s fairly unique in their respective fields.

“I don’t know of anyone else who is working in this way but there is real synergy to what we can offer by teaming up. Our USP is Stephen’s knowledge of land and cost of development combined with our experience in planning and great designs.”

We are chatting after a busy photo shoot at Quantum on The Pantiles where our photographer John has been taking pictures of Tara, Angie and Stephen alongside their two teams who all appear to get along incredibly well. Clearly the synergy Tara speaks of is far reaching…

Tara tells me there’s a very nice office

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

culture that has developed since the two companies decided to share an office in St John’s Road.

“We all have high standards in what we do and if you consider our collective years’ experience that actually counts for a lot,” she says.

Tara has worked as an architect for years, on private and corporate projects both here in the UK as well as Europe, while Angie has also worked extensively here and in Europe as well as in her native South Africa. Tara also occasionally lectures at Cambridge University and both women are regularly asked to judge industry awards and speak at specialist events.

It’s therefore no surprise to learn that since AdeL launched it has achieved a seriously impressive 97% success rate in planning applications and has been awarded various prestigious architectural accolades.

Stephen meanwhile has grown his business extensively over the past twenty years to include services for both commercial and residential property development, as well as providing affordable housing sites throughout the South East and the Midlands. His business is co-run with land brokerage experts Samuel Donnelly and Chloe Newell and supported by SJD’s office manager Chloe Binckes-Williams.

Within his property business Stephen has other ventures including a self-build sourcing service called the plot register and also Sited. The latter offers unrivalled access to development opportunities that are not usually available on the open market.

“Sited is aimed at individuals searching for land to build and create their dream home,” he states. “If you can visualise it,

27

TEAM SPIRIT: Atelier de Linde and SJD Projects have collaborated on various design and builds since 2023 we can deliver it and bring your vision to life. We will manage the whole process from site sourcing to design and planning, to interior design and construction. We will source suitable plots that meet your requirements.”

Stephen adds that sourced plots are carefully assessed for their financial viability as well as planning potential in order to ensure that clients are paying the right price and not taking an expensive planning risk. And this is one of the area’s where AdeL’s expertise comes in – especially if a planning application is rather complicated.

“We understand what is required to get planning permission and we work diligently with our wider team to ensure that all our applications stand the best chance of success,” explains Angie.

“We have dealt with pretty much every

“

I don’t know of anyone else who is working in this way but there is real synergy to what we can offer by teaming up

” local council in Kent, Surrey and Sussex over the past few years so we have detailed experience of what is expected.

It’s about building up relationships: getting to know them and how they work.”

AdeL recently completed an impressive development of boarding accommodation at a school in Battle and was awarded a coveted BUILD Architecture Award for its work on Great Hall Bayhall Barn near Pembury.

But the firm is not just expert at gaining planning, the team brings a high level of design to whatever it does states Tara.

“I think that’s quite critical as you are selling an idea, a dream, a vision and planning and images really sell that.

Considered design that really works for the client is at the heart of everything we do.”

She says that the partnership with SJD is a two-way street as AdeL also passes on work to Stephen and his team: “We often get approached by clients who have an estate and are working on one part of it but they also want some advice on development and that’s when we will put them in contact with Stephen. So it’s a mutually beneficial setup.”

Angie agrees, saying that what both

28

FEATURE

companies offer is a seamless turnkey service – meaning that they can help clients realise their property goals from start to finish.

“We now have a very cohesive system thanks to being able to pool our mutual resources which has resulted in a very prescriptive offering. We will put together a wider professional team with Stephen to work on a variety of projects and because we have such a diverse range of clients we know which suppliers, contractors and structural engineers and so forth will work best for each one. And we will always use as many local businesses as possible.”

These, Angie tells me include engineers and surveyors CALtech, KLW planning consultants and Quantity Surveyor Josh Stockwell from Stockwell Developments, all of whom are based in or around Tunbridge Wells.

Having such experienced teams putting together cohesive designs makes the end project of any conversion, new build or development opportunities much more saleable adds Stephen.

“If a client wants to discuss development opportunities for their plot or barns, or simply enhance the value of their existing land or home we can give advice on the best way forward. Jointly we can provide comprehensive feasibility that will include pricing, planning potential and strategy and outline what can be achieved to maximise the value of any potential project.

“This means that we can assist the client in establishing what the

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

GRAND DESIGNS: Stephen with his SJD colleagues

“ We are always looking to push a development within realistic parameters in order to get the most for each of our clients. We take them on a journey with us

”

potential profitability will be for their land or development project. We can also advise on timescales, planning and development costs. Having all the expertise needed in one team means that the client does not need to approach various companies to review their assets potential.”

Angie states that working in this way is more efficient and saves time and money in the long run.

“We believe that by giving our clients the benefit of access to our entire professional team of specialists means the advice ultimately given through our feasibility service at the outset will have a significantly positive impact on the planning strategy.”

“We have all worked tirelessly to ensure the client’s wishes are always met,” says Tara. “Remember that planning is constantly changing. And now with a new government comes more changes - but also opportunities.”

“The new legislation around farmers and inheritance tax will have an impact on many rural assets and SJD can utilise their experience in estate management to assist in realising the potential of their assets,” adds Stephen.

And it is this particular example which Stephen says perfectly proves why the AdeL and the SJD/Sited collab works.

“We draw on each company’s expertise, looking at where each one can add value,” he states.

Both work with private and commercial clients throughout the South East, London

AdeL/SITED CASE STUDY: MERES BARN “Meres Barn is one of the many projects we have completed successfully together in the past 12 months,” says Angie.

“Stephen had a client who contacted him as he had some outbuildings on his existing land. Ultimately he wanted to sell his residential house and was keen to see if there was any value to the other buildings. Stephen suggested the client look at getting approval to convert them – and that’s where we came in. We worked with the planning consultants, the ecologists, drainage and highways consultants to get the planning.

“After working closely with the local planning authorities, we managed to create a significant uplift in value.

“In brief, Meres Barn was an exciting opportunity as it was being done by an owner-occupier, more commonly known as a self-builder. AdeL worked with the structural engineers to co-ordinate the construction drawings with the selfbuilder in mind. We hosted various team calls with the client and specialists to agree on a method of construction that would satisfy the structural

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION: Far right a picture of the original outbuilding and an artist's impression of how Meres Barn will look when finished requirements of the conversion and allow for the cilent’s personal skill set. This meant designing an internal framework that did not rely on steels, but rather utilised an internal timber frame that could be loaded onto new foundations.

“The client is hoping to complete his project within the next two years and we are very excited to track this one. It is incredibly rewarding to be working with this young couple and assist them in creating their future family home.”

Stephen adds: “My client is happy because we added value for his estate.

SJD called upon the services of the team at AdeL to work with our client and design and submit an application for a barn conversion in a highly desirable village in Sussex, allowing the client to liquidate an asset and a young selfbuilder to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. A dream facilitated by registering with Sited, a company created for those individuals looking to build their future home.”

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

GROUP EFFORT: Tara and Angie with the AdeL team which includes Angie's sister Dominika (far right) and further afield. These range from schools, private homes, barns and hotels to pubs, petrol stations, nursing homes, doctors’ surgeries and former churches.

“Some of these may find it quite challenging in terms of their financial situation but we can work with them in order to optimise the value of their land and property in a way others might not do,” continues Tara.

“We currently have four independent schools on our books and because of the proposed 20% VAT coming into force by the Labour government that’s exactly why we are advising on the development of their assets.”

She goes on to say that AdeL were commissioned to develop boarding quarters at the aforementioned school in Battle which, in turn, positively impacted on their financial fluidity of the school and improved their revenue moving forward.

“We are now able to include the successful application and approval for a new eco home outside of settlement boundary,” continues Tara. “The site lying within the AONB and designated greenbelt was given a limited chance of approval at face value, but with the faithful support of SJD’s client the team managed to get it across the line and achieved a successful planning approval for a sensitive and sustainable home in an outlying village near Tunbridge Wells.”

When reflecting on this job, which took 18 months, Tara says the more complex the project, the more rewarding the outcome for all of us.

“Dynamic design is what we are always striving for. It is all about achieving a high

“

You have to always have the ecological impact at the heart of any design you are working on

”

standard. There are so many sites that are refused planning because they have bad designs or inadequate information.

But if you have something that has a clear design intention, supporting surveys and reports and a robust design statement then the chances of getting planning approval is increased.”

Angie says the site they are currently working on was refused planning prior to Adel’s appointment.

“Our team has joint forces to turn a negative decision into a positive outcome, and SJD have further been asked to consult on the costs and return on investment for the client.”

“Where required we endeavour to push the boundaries of local policies to SJD PROJECTS LTD 78 St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent, TN4 9PH UK 01892 579937 Website: www.sjd-projects.co.uk Email: steve@sjd-projects.com

29

maximise our clients’ project potential, in order to get the best possible outcome for them. We take them on a journey with us,” smiles Tara who tends to oversee the planning while Angie concentrates on the internal specifications, details and delivery.

As well as putting innovative design and exceptional personalised service at the heart of what they do, both women ensure that the environment is also one of their business’s key hallmarks.

“You have to always have the ecological impact at the heart of any design you are working on,” advises Tara.

“I was recently talking to Jo da Silva, who is the global director of sustainable development at Arup which is a worldwide collective of designers, engineers and technical experts. She made the very valid point that everyone talks about the cost of development per square metre. But how many of us are talking about the cost of carbon footprint per square metre? Well for us those discussions are very much at the forefront of what we do.”

The duo says this is because they work on a mix of both new builds and period properties. With the former they can ensure the property works efficiently from the get-go but with conversions of older houses which leak energy they have to think of clever, cost-effective ways to ensure they don’t haemorrhage money and continue to damage the environment.

Before I leave, I ask Stephen, Tara and Angie whether they can reveal any more of their plans for 2025.

“To take over the world,” laughs Angie before adding on a more serious note that they all agree they would like to grow their respective teams.

Stephen tells me that he is adding a new home sales division to his business.

“If we sell a plot then once it’s been built our clients can then use us to sell it for them rather than going to an estate agent. The majority of what we do is done with discretion and is off-market as a lot of people who are selling or buying don’t necessarily want everyone else to know.

It’s nice to know that you have dome degree of exclusivity on what you choose to spend your money on.”

Given their impressive track record after just one year doing business together I have every faith that all of these goals and more will easily achieved by this formidable team.

ATELIER DE LINDE LTD 78 St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent, TN4 9PH UK 07973 628 095/07427 490 122 Website: www.atelierdelinde.co.uk Email: hello@atelierdelinde.com

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

“I’m passionate about HR and believe it’s an investment for any business” Gemma Farina runs the award-winning independent human resources consultancy GFHR Consulting which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Here the local business entrepreneur tells Eileen Leahy about why her company’s approach to HR is always a personal and proactive one…

I

established my business in January 2010 after I took voluntary redundancy from my job in London.

I had a young baby at the time and decided that I would set up my own business rather than try and juggle childcare with the commute.

My background was in Human Resources so it made sense to start a business which focused on my experience and strengths. I’d always been passionate about HR and had helped a few friends whilst I had been on maternity leave, and so I thought ‘well why not?’

I identified that for small business owners, having that ‘go-to’ person who you can trust but who is also knowledgeable on the legal aspects of employment law is so important.

Therefore I set up as a self-employed consultant and launched GFHR, an HR advice and guidance service for SMEs. When I went to my first networking event here in Tunbridge Wells I had no idea what I was doing – funny to think that 15 years later I absolutely love meeting people and can see just how valuable a tool connecting with other like-minded professionals is. If you had told me that I would win Business Person of the Year at the inaugural Tunbridge Wells Business Awards last year I would never have believed you!

Over the years the team has steadily grown and I now have six associates, each of whom possesses unique areas of expertise so clients have access to the best suited person for the work they need supporting with.

We are unique because we work proactively with our clients. We take the time to get to know them. We want to be

seen as an extension of their business.

Our interactions are extremely varied, from working on a single employee issue to acting at Board level HR Director. Some of our clients have been with me from the beginning, and to be on a journey with their business is a privilege. I think the diverse experience GFHR offers really sets

“

2025 is going to be an exciting year for GFHR. It’s our 15-year anniversary and the ideal time to ensure the service we provide reflects our values and supports our clients’ needs

”

us apart from others. Our clients benefit from other ways of thinking or doing things differently – something they might not otherwise have thought of.

We work with businesses who really understand the value their employees bring to their company and who want to do the right thing by their employees – engaging, motivating and developing them.

My business has grown organically over the years. When I first started out 15 years ago I was raising my two young children so was very mindful of how much I could take on. The last thing I wanted was to overstretch myself or compromise the quality of work for clients and I think

HOW GFHR CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS: Our expertise lies in full-service HR support which may include recruitment, absence management, disciplinary & grievance, performance management, employee wellbeing, engagement, employee reward & benefits, and training & development. We have experience in all business sectors - from IT consultancy to law firms, property consultants, events venues and even within GP practices and ecology.

Many of our clients are steadily growing or looking to grow and are values-driven businesses. We want to partner with them as their HR team and establish long term relationships.

this approach has always underpinned what I do.

I am so passionate about HR and believe it is an investment for any business. If you employ people, then treating them with respect and supporting them to do their best -while ensuring the business is fair and equitable in its practices - is essential.

One of the biggest catalysts for our success has been the opportunity to network so much locally. The business community here in Tunbridge Wells is incredible but it’s also important to give back which is why we try and support new businesses and have recently become an official Corporate Supporter for Trinity Theatre. We have also volunteered our time in local schools carrying out mock interviews.

2025 is going to be an exciting year for GFHR. Our 15-year anniversary is the ideal time to look at the service we provide and ensure it reflects the values of the whole team and supports our clients’ needs.

We are in the process of launching our new packages for clients and are soon to rebrand which is going to be really exciting. We will have a new logo, promotional materials and website.

We will continue to focus on increasing our service areas through system integration, and collaborative partnerships. We will work with our clients to implement the upcoming legislative changes.

Call: 01892 300 360 Website: gfhr.co.uk Email: info@gfhr.co.uk

31

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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FEATURE

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

“Podcasting is about making a connection” David Brown, RTW Media Group member and Founder and Creative Lead at Futurehand Media - a podcast production company dedicated to bringing compelling stories to life - explains how you can engage your podcast audience through storytelling

I

n the ever-growing world of podcasting, it’s easy to get caught up in the race for the highest production value. Crystal-clear audio, seamless editing, and professional sound effects are all the rage - and for good reason. They make your podcast sound polished and professional. But here’s a little secret: while high production value is important, a good story is importanter.

(Yes, that’s what I said. No AI here!)

Because no matter how slick your podcast looks and sounds, it’s the story that truly captures your listeners’ hearts and minds.

People tune in not just to hear well-produced content but to be moved, entertained, and engaged. They crave stories that make them laugh out loud, gasp in surprise, or ponder your story is the life’s big questions. star. Think about I have seen firsthand how Listeners want that what your audience “LOL,” “OMG,” or even powerful storytelling can finds interesting “WTF” moment that and valuable. Their transform a podcast.

Clients who keeps them coming passions, challenges, started with minimal resources and curiosities back for more.

If you’re just skyrocketed in popularity by should guide your starting out, don’t connecting authentically with narrative. Whether feel overwhelmed it’s an unexpected by the need for their audience twist, a fresh professional perspective, or a production right relatable anecdote, away. In fact, you can achieve a lot with aim to craft moments that evoke real basic equipment and free tools like reactions—those laughs, gasps, or Adobe Podcasts and Davinci Resolve. thoughtful silences.

These solutions allow you to dive into Consider the podcasts that have left a podcasting without breaking the bank lasting impression on you. Chances are, while still producing decent quality audio. they told a story that struck a chord; Check out “The Ultimate Guide to Setting whether through humour, suspense, or Up Your First Home Podcast Studio” on heartfelt emotion. These are the stories the Futurehand Media website (https:// that stick - the ones people share and bit.ly/rtwpodcast) for an in-depth look at discuss with others. affordable gear and setup advice. It’s a While storytelling is king, don’t concise, practical resource designed to completely sideline production quality. help you get started with confidence.

Clear sound and smooth editing do Editing your own content using these matter - no one enjoys tools can also be a great way to develop muffled voices or distracting your style and connect authentically with background noise. But think your audience. Plus, it pushes you to of production value as the improve your presentation skills—fewer supporting actor, not the star of edits mean less time spent in postthe show. It’s there to enhance production! the story, not overshadow it.

However, here’s the key takeaway: As your podcast grows and

“

”

you aim for a more polished sound, that’s when you might consider bringing in professional help. A production company can take care of advanced editing, sound design, and content strategy, freeing you to focus solely on storytelling.

At Futurehand Media, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful storytelling can transform a podcast. We’ve worked with clients who started with minimal resources but skyrocketed in popularity by connecting authentically with their audience. They focused on stories that resonated, and we helped them refine their sound and strategy.

So, if you’re venturing into podcasting or looking to elevate your current show, remember to put the story first. Don’t be afraid to be bold, inject humour, and share something genuine. Ask yourself, “What will make my listeners say ‘Wow!’ or ‘I never thought of it that way’?” Aim for those moments that resonate long after the episode ends.

Podcasting isn’t just about being heard; it’s about making a connection. High production value may catch the ear, but a great story captures the heart.

For more info visit: www.futurehandmedia.com Podcasts : www.withai.fm

PLOT OR NOT? We’re always on the look out for land and property with development potential, so if you think your land or property may be suitable, then give us a call, without obligation and in confidence.

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.

For more information, contact Stephen Donnelly: 07739 514 350 I 01892 579 937 I steve@sjd-projects.com

LAND AND DEVELOPMENT

sjd-projects.com Commercial buildings for residential conversation • Former public houses • Redundant building for development • Buildings for conversion or replacement Houses for improvement • Large sites on the edge of town • Barn conversions • Large gardens in residential areas • Major regeneration projects

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

“I love helping our clients achieve their goals”

Victoria, congratulations on winning Hair and Beauty Business of the Year at the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards!

How does it feel?

I still cannot believe that we have won - I have to keep pinching myself! Winning this award is a huge honour, but I always feel like a winner when I help my clients to achieve their goals and desired outcomes.

This could be to simply feel relaxed and pampered after a massage, or improve a skin concern with one of our tailor-made advanced facials.

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 Victoria Burger at the award-winning Serenity Therapies on the High Street

When did Serenity Therapies begin?

I have been practicing massage and beauty therapy since 1999, and bought Serenity Therapies in October 2012. When I took over the business, it had already been running for several years, although it was quite rundown at that point.

“

Serenity Therapies specialises in massage, facials, and advanced treatments. We have a wide range of services within these categories What do you offer at the salon?

Serenity Therapies specialises in massage, facials, and advanced treatments. We have a wide range of services within these categories, from sports massage, microneedling, chemical peels, dermaplaning, and advanced cosmetic procedures.

In addition to your team, you have a large number of independent therapists. Why is this important?

Yes, we have an incredible team here at Serenity Therapies. Our independent therapists include acupuncturist Alison Arden,Osteopath Tejen Majumdar, aesthetics practitioners Valentina

” and Pei Pei Cheang, counsellors Emilia Yau and Sarah McMurray, psychotherapist Rachel Burniston, beauty therapist Amy Browne, and massage therapist Emmanuel Francis.

What are your plans for 2025?

Our plans for the coming year are to expand on our advanced facials range by introducing some more advanced procedures to our treatment menu. We are also planning to increase our training

services and launch the Focus Awards Training Academy.

Why did join the TN card and how do you thank members for supporting local?

We joined the TN card when it began in 2020 as we wanted to give something back to the people of Tunbridge Wells.

We could really see what value being a TN card partner would bring to the community, and currently, TN card members enjoy 10% off all treatments at Serenity Therapies. Next year, we will be adding extra benefits to certain treatments in celebration of winning our award. Thank you Jess for helping to promote businesses like us to the Tunbridge Wells community.

Serenity Therapies, 42 High Street, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1XF serenitytherapies.com

Jess Gibson

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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.

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01892 772960 www.synergee.org.uk

36

INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

The need for speed

HIGH FLYER: By day Jacqueline Fletcher works for TW Block Management and in her spare time she is a keen motocross rider

Jacqueline, block management and motocross are very different. How did you get involved?

I like to blame (or thank) my dad, Justin Fletcher, for both. He heads up the lettings and sales team at TW Property and I worked here part time while I was at university. My mum is also in the lettings team. I graduated 10 months ago and am now full-time and I just love it. The motocross started because when I was younger, dad started motocross racing and I wanted to give it a try. I had my first trial on my 10th birthday and have been racing ever since.

What does block management involve?

At TW Block Management, we have a large portfolio of blocks, ranging from four to 77 flats and entire estates comprising of flats and houses. We look after the day-to-day operations of individual properties and communal areas. This can be arranging repairs, collecting rent and drawing up management accounts to making sure everything complies with health and safety and fire regulations. No two days are ever the same and it’s always busy. We have a great team.

Jacqueline Fletcher works for TW Block Management, which forms part of TW Property. When she’s not arranging management accounts or fixing problems for landlords and tenants, she dons her kit and turns into a motocross/enduro rider.

And what about motocross?

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INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

The tracks we ride on are gravel, mud and grass and the idea is to compete against each other in a fast-paced environment.

Enduro, on the other hand, speaks for itself. You pace yourself over three hours, beating whatever obstacles the course has to offer. It’s huge in the US and Europe but brilliantly supported in the UK where we have the annual British Motocross Championship.

What time of the year do you race?

We mainly race in the summer but we have track days in the winter, all around the South East. The standard Enduro races are three hours non-stop, where the idea is to complete as many laps as possible. The standard motocross race is broken up into 20-30-minute bursts.

Practice track days are 10am to 4pm and we ride as much as we can. I’m planning to enter the South East Championships again in 2025 and can’t wait to get back on the race track.

”

Motocross is a totally male-dominated sport.

I’m often the only woman in a field of 300 racers but I get a massive sense of achievement for turning up at every event

“

Do you and your dad race together?

We did a few years back, in different classes. That was great fun. Dad’s now retired from racing and rides his motorbike on the road instead. He keeps his motocross hand in though by maintaining my bike on his day off.

We’re lucky we all get on so well – we live together, work together and enjoy the same hobby (except for my mum who won’t come to watch any of my races …)

What do you enjoy most about motocross?

I love the competition and the challenge of racing. There’s a great sense of camaraderie in the sport and while it is a

race, if someone gets into trouble, there’ll always be someone else who stops to help.

What’s the ratio of men to women?

It’s a totally male-dominated sport.

I’m often the only woman in a field of 300 racers and I get a massive sense of achievement for turning up at every event. I think I’ve also earned a lot of respect from the other riders and never get the sense that they don’t take me seriously as a competitor. It doesn’t need to be so imbalanced. It’s a great sport for women to take part in and I’d encourage anyone to have a go. You need to be fairly fit – and some might say brave – but it’s the best feeling flying around the track.

Visit TW Property and Block Management at www.twproperty.co.uk and find out more about motocross at www.mxgb.co.uk

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37

T. 01342 634 556 revivehealthfitness.co.uk

COUNCIL NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Photograph by David Hodgkinson

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Why collaboration is key Cllr Astra Birch, Cabinet Member for Housing & Communities, explains why she is so passionate about connecting our local business and residential communities

A

s Cabinet Member for Housing & Communities, I’m passionate about fostering stronger connections between Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and our vibrant business community.

My background as a Board Director for the Chamber of Commerce has given me a valuable perspective on how we can work together to create a thriving environment for everyone.

My portfolio is diverse, encompassing everything from community safety and public spaces to supporting our invaluable charities and social housing providers.

I’ve seen first hand the generosity and commitment of Tunbridge Wells businesses, and I’m keen to facilitate even greater collaboration between them and the voluntary sector.

Last November, we hosted a summit to better understand the needs of our local charities and community groups.

The event proved incredibly valuable for both the council and the participating organisations, providing a vital platform for open dialogue and shared learning.

We’re committed to building on this success and plan to hold similar quarterly meetings going forward. These sessions will provide an ongoing opportunity to identify areas where businesses can contribute their expertise, resources, and time to support the vital work of these organisations.

One of our key manifesto commitments is the development of youth hubs within the borough. This is an exciting project with the potential to make a real difference in the lives of young people in

“

By working together more closely we can create a more prosperous and inclusive future for Tunbridge Wells

”

Tunbridge Wells. Looking ahead, we’re eager to engage local businesses in this initiative, exploring opportunities for them to offer valuable work experience placements, mentoring programmes, and volunteering opportunities. This would not only provide young people with crucial skills and experience but also strengthen the connection between the business community and the next generation of local talent.

For retail and hospitality businesses, the Tunbridge Wells Safe Town Partnership is a valuable resource. This collaborative initiative, working in partnership with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Kent Police, Kent Trading Standards, and Kent

Fire and Rescue, is dedicated to ensuring our borough is a safe and welcoming place for everyone to live, work, socialise, and shop. Members of the partnership benefit from a direct radio link to CCTV control room and other members, enabling them to stay informed and respond quickly to any incidents. This proactive approach helps to maintain a safe and secure environment for businesses, residents, and visitors alike, extending its coverage to Paddock Wood.

Another key priority for me is addressing the issue of affordable housing within the borough. It’s concerning that Tunbridge Wells is one of the few boroughs where the population hasn’t grown in the last decade. I believe a significant contributing factor is the difficulty young adults face in finding affordable places to rent or buy locally.

This lack of affordable housing has a knock-on effect on local businesses, making it challenging to recruit for entrylevel and junior positions as potential employees are forced to move elsewhere.

This is a complex challenge, but one that we, with the support of central government, are determined to tackle head-on. We must prioritise creating more affordable housing options to ensure that people can afford to stay in Tunbridge Wells, contributing to the local economy and ensuring a vibrant future for our community.

I really believe that working together more closely – council, businesses, and community organisations – we can create a more prosperous and inclusive future for Tunbridge Wells.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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40

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Building on commercial success During 2024 Tunbridge Wells saw a bumper crop of new ventures opening. Here’s a look back at the many shops, restaurants, bars and offices that we’ve welcomed to our commercial landscape – and a sneak peek of what’s still to come in early 2025…

W

e’re sure you’ve heard the familiar refrain that goes along the lines of “Tunbridge Wells is dying. There’s no good shops…” Well, we have news as actually there’s been an unprecedented amount of new openings over the past year - and it doesn’t look like the influx of much wanted stores, eateries and companies shows any time of stopping.

With high street brands such as Primark and Nandos and plenty of indie businesses scheduled to set up shop in the coming year, Tunbridge Wells is once again putting itself on the commercial map as Alex Green who is the Royal Tunbridge Wells Together BID Director confirms…

“We are delighted that Tunbridge Wells is such a vibrant town that seems to be beating the national trend of town centre success.

“It is testimony to this, that so many

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

FEATURE

41

SHARPER

MARKETING

FOR LASTING PROFIT–

BUILT ON INSIGHT NOT GUESSWORK operators are keen to open up new shops, hospitality and service operations across the whole town.”

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As our pictures testify, when it comes to new openings Tunbridge Wells is right up there with more openings set to be announced for 2025 so watch this space...

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LEGAL

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Berry & Lamberts continue growth strategy by announcing four new team members Longstanding local law firm, Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, has announced four key positions as part of its long-term growth strategy.

Victoria Simpson has been appointed as Associate Solicitor in the property team.

She brings over 10 years’ experience in property law and deals with a variety of work from first-time buyers to longestablished investment clients. Victoria also has solid experience dealing with shared ownership.

Charmaine Feagan has joined the private client team, having recently qualified as a Solicitor. She gained experience in various areas of law working as a paralegal in another law firm whilst studying for her LPC and then decided to specialise in private client law.

The firm has also awarded Trainee Solicitor contracts to Estella Durnford and Mia Drummond. Estella has joined the family team for her first

VICTORIA SIMPSON

CHARMAINE FEAGAN

training seat having qualified with a Masters in Law from the University of Law. Mia’s first training seat is within the property team after successfully gaining a first-class postgraduate degree in Law. Both training contracts are for two years and successful completion will mean both should qualify as a Solicitor in 2026.

Paul Reader, Managing Partner, told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine: “We are only as good as our people. Our

ESTELLA DURNFORD

MIA DRUMMOND

recruitment process is thorough and we’re careful to choose people we know will fit well within our team and help build on our reputation as an approachable and client-focused law firm.

"We are fortunate to have a very loyal and enthusiastic team at Berry & Lamberts and we reward hard work and loyalty. We’re pleased to welcome Victoria, Charmaine, Estella and Mia and wish them a long and happy career with us.”

Local legal firm appoints Anna Dunn as partner and member of property team Experienced Residential Property solicitor, Anna Dunn, has joined CooperBurnett LLP as a Partner. She has relocated from Brighton, where she lived and worked for 11 years and brings with her particular experience working with housing associations and developers.

This marks a return to Tunbridge Wells for Anna, as she trained at a local firm, where she worked for six years.

During that time, Anna often dealt with CooperBurnett's Head of Residential Property, Jennifer Irving, on the other side of transactions.

“Having known Jenni for nearly 20 years and being aware of CooperBurnett’s excellent reputation when it comes to Residential Property, I am confident making the move," says Anna.

"CooperBurnett feels like the right firm for me; big enough but not so large that it starts to feel impersonal. It’s also somewhere people are supported to stay and grow their careers.”

Adds Jennifer Irving: “I am absolutely delighted that Anna is joining our busy Residential Property department, she will be a great addition to the team!”

Over the years, Anna has worked across a range of property matters and, as well as acting for developers, she still enjoys the more typical residential property work, including residential

with fraud and procurement issues,” Anna explains. “This was interesting but quite a pressured environment and I’d often end up sleeping at my desk… I made the decision to move away from contentious work and, after a brief time back in Tunbridge Wells which allowed me to focus on residential property full-time, ANNA DUNN I moved to Brighton.”

Most recently, she has been ‘running teams and building offices’ on the “Anna has worked across a range coast. When Anna left school, she didn’t immediately study law but graduated of property matters including from the University of East Anglia in residential sales/purchases, buy-to- Norwich with a degree in Psychology let investments, transfers of equity – which she says has helped her to understand ‘the human element of law’. and re-mortgages, supporting both She was offered a training contract in individuals and investors” Tunbridge Wells – a town where she knew nobody at the time.

Anna discovered a friendship group in amateur dramatics, performing Residential Property, I’m looking forward in productions at Trinity Theatre in to working with team members such as Tunbridge Wells and The Oast Theatre in Partner, Oliver Bussell, who focuses on Tonbridge.

Planning.”

Returning to this area means Anna will After she qualified, Anna split her time be able to get involved with Trinity between Litigation, with a focus on Theatre again and she has already taken property, and Residential Property. on a role as a Trustee on the Board, “I worked in London for a couple where her legal expertise and enthusiasm of years, dealing with housing for the arts are sure to be welcomed. associations on the contentious side sales/purchases, buy-to-let investments, transfers of equity and re-mortgages, supporting both individuals and investors.

“It sounds like a cliché but CooperBurnett really feels like a family and you can see how closely everyone works together,” adds Anna. “In addition to my colleagues in

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

43

Turning life’s challenges into opportunities for growth Navigating life’s transitions can be tough and at this time of year separation and divorce are two of the most common and painful ones to get through. But help is at hand courtesy of local Arabella Paul AKA The Divorce Survival Coach

J

anuary often represents a fresh start, but for many, it marks the beginning of a challenging journey.

The first Monday of the year, known as ‘Divorce Day’ - this year it fell on 6th January 2025 - is the busiest day for divorce lawyers. For those facing the upheaval of separation or divorce, Arabella, The Divorce Survival Coach, offers the guidance and support needed to navigate these turbulent times…

Empowering Individuals to Move Forward Arabella specialises in coaching individuals who feel stuck and unable to see a way forward during the process of separation or divorce. While she does not provide legal or financial advice, Arabella’s focus is on emotional and practical support. She equips her clients with tools and strategies to manage negative emotions, shift their mindset, and embrace change. Each session with Arabella concludes with a personalised action plan designed to help clients move forward with confidence and positivity.

Supporting Employees During Challenging Times In addition to working with individuals, Arabella collaborates with businesses to support employees navigating separation or divorce. Research shows the significant impact divorce can have on workplace performance. A recent survey revealed that while 90% of employees reported their work suffered during a divorce, only 9% said their employer provided specific support. Studies also indicate that divorce can reduce productivity by as much as 40% for up to three years.

Divorce is the second most traumatic

life event after the death of a loved one which is why the five stages that follow a break-up are identical to those of grief. She partners with corporates to provide training and workshops for HR and managers on supporting employees through these challenging times, such as recognising signs of abuse, alongside targeted oneon-one coaching to help employees maintain productivity and wellbeing during personal transitions.

“

I want to empower clients to rebuild and rediscover their potential

”

Expanding Expertise: Training for Difficult Transitions This year, Arabella is working with the DASH Charity (Domestic Abuse Stops Here) and training to become a Master Practitioner. This additional expertise will enhance her ability to support clients divorcing “difficult” partners. Her work will address topics such as: •

Understanding different types of abuse

•

Recognising and escaping toxic relationships

•

Safely navigating separation from an abusive partner

•

Negotiating financial settlements with challenging ex-partners

•

Managing co-parenting with a toxic individual

RESILIENCE BUILDING The techniques Arabella, the Divorce Survival Coach employs in her sessions include:

•

Regaining control and focus

•

•

Managing and processing negative emotions

Building self-esteem and confidence

•

•

Overcoming heartbreak and letting go of an ex

Creating an inspiring vision for the future

•

Handling conflict with clarity and calm

•

Reducing stress and feelings of overwhelm

In addition, Arabella provides a carefully vetted list of legal, financial, and other professionals to ensure her clients have access to comprehensive support.

•

Rebuilding identity and recovering from trauma

•

Creating a brighter and more fulfilling future

Domestic abuse is a highly relevant and complex issue that goes beyond physical violence including emotional, financial, sexual abuse, as well as gaslighting and coercive control. Arabella’s training and dedication equip her to provide vital support to those in need.

A Passion for New Beginnings As an accredited coach trained by the International Divorce Coach Centre of Excellence (IDCCE) under Sara Davison, Arabella combines personal experience and professional expertise to guide her clients. She is passionate about helping individuals transform what may feel like an ending into a new beginning.

Arabella’s mission is to empower her clients to rebuild and rediscover their potential. By teaching practical strategies and offering compassionate support, she helps them navigate the complexities of divorce with resilience and hope. Whether working with individuals or organisations, Arabella is committed to turning life’s challenges into opportunities for growth.

For those seeking support during a separation or divorce, Arabella’s services provide the tools and encouragement needed to embrace a brighter future.

CONTACT: Arabella Paul - The Divorce Survival Coach Tel: 07876 351822 info@thedivorcesurvivalcoach.com www.thedivorcesurvivalcoach.com

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Why mindset is key to success In her first column for 2025, photographer and coach Dee Airey shares how to identify any limiting beliefs that might be holding you back and ways in which you can take intentional steps to overcome them…

Dear Entrepreneur, Are You Holding Yourself Back?

Do you ever feel plagued by selfdoubt? Perhaps imposter syndrome whispers that you’re not really qualified or good enough, no matter your achievements. Or maybe you struggle to price your services properly, worried you’ll be judged or rejected. These feelings are more common than you might think and can quietly sabotage your confidence.

It’s important to recognise that selfdoubt often doesn’t reflect your reality.

Instead, it’s a collection of stories you’ve internalised - stories that can be rewritten.

Solution: Start by reframing your doubts.

Make a list of your achievements (you do have them!) and reflect on the positive feedback you’ve received. If you’re

“

Start embracing the power of authenticity. Your age, weight, or appearance aren’t barriers; they’re simply aspects of who you are, adding richness to your personal and professional story

”

struggling with pricing, remember that your fees represent the value of your skills, experience, and results - not just the time you spend. Experiment with incremental increases in your pricing until you feel it aligns with your worth.

Have you ever felt overshadowed in your industry? Perhaps you’ve walked into a room of peers, or networked and felt invisible, as though your voice wouldn’t carry weight. Or maybe you’ve hesitated to share your ideas, fearing they might be dismissed or undervalued. It’s a difficult space to navigate, and these feelings can make you question whether you truly belong.

But here’s the truth: comparison is a distraction, and it often blinds you to your own strengths.

Solution: Shift your focus inward. Every industry thrives on diversity of thought and perspective, so don’t underestimate what you bring to the table. Take time to understand what makes you different whether it’s your unique approach, skills,

or lived experience. When you walk into a room or a networking meeting, remind yourself that your voice matters and that others can benefit from hearing it.

Do societal standards around weight, age, or appearance affect your confidence? Have you ever hesitated to step forward professionally, worried you don’t quite “fit the part”? These unspoken expectations can feel like an added layer of pressure, making you doubt your place in the spotlight.

But here’s a liberating thought: your value has nothing to do with these superficial markers. I’ve learned this the hard way.

Solution: Start embracing the power of authenticity. Your age, weight, or appearance aren’t barriers; they’re simply aspects of who you are, adding richness to your personal and professional story.

Success doesn’t require fitting a specific mould - it’s about bringing your true self to your work and allowing others to connect with your real story. Focus on the qualities that truly matter: your expertise, your character, and your ability to deliver results.

Final Thoughts Each of these challenges ultimately

stems from mindset, and mindsets can change. The key is to identify the limiting beliefs holding you back and take intentional steps to overcome them.

• Challenge your inner critic by questioning the stories it tells you.

• Focus on your strengths instead of fixating on comparisons.

• Act in alignment with your goals, even when fear and doubt persist.

True confidence isn’t about banishing all insecurities; it’s about moving forward despite them. You are more capable, more valuable, and more deserving than you may realise.

The question isn’t whether you have what it takes - because you do. The real TH question is: are you ready to stop holding yourself back and be limitless?

Take the first step now - your ideal client is waiting for what only you can offer. www.brandphotographybydeeairey.co.uk

Dee

rey i A

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

FINANCE

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On the money for mortgages This month we hear from two of The Finance Hub’s mortgage experts, Lisa Sneddon, of Twelve92 Property Finance who specialises in the commercial sector and David Famer of Lime Finance Solutions whose area of expertise lies in commercial units and land mortgages…

LISA SNEDDON Twelve92 Property Finance As we came to the end of 2024, it was time for us to celebrate the pinnacle of our collaboration within Gillian Palmer and The Finance Hub. Our client, with a multifaceted income structure, sought a remortgage of £5 million to consolidate both their residential mortgage and a second charge bridging loan used to finance home renovations.

Securing a lender willing to accommodate the client’s unique circumstances proved to be a challenge. As a self-employed consultant managing over ten active contracts simultaneously, the client had rapidly scaled their business, resulting in a substantial year-on-year increase in turnover. However, this swift growth, combined with the irregular cash flow typical of their industry, made the mortgage application anything but straightforward.

Thanks to the company’s extensive network within the mortgage industry,

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we were able to engage directly with a senior underwriter at a selected lender.

Through several in-depth discussions, we successfully navigated the complexities of the case and secured a solution that met the client's needs.

Once the initial remortgage was secured, we turned to the expertise of Gillian Palmer at her Lending Made Simple business to arrange a revolving credit facility that would address the client's cash flow challenges. This strategic move provided the necessary flexibility to stabilise the client's business finances and ensure long-term financial resilience.

Collaboration when advising high net worth clients is essential, as it brings together diverse expertise and perspectives, enabling us to tackle complex challenges with innovative solutions; it is the fundamental principle upon which The Finance Hub was built.

David Famer Lime Finance Solutions We continue to see commercial landlords give their tenants the opportunity to buy premises, driven in part by a less landlord

friendly tax regime. This is a trend we continue to see and expect to carry on as the new year progresses.

The good news, and there is some good news, is that businesses with the opportunity to buy premises can still benefit from the Government Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS), this scheme enables lenders to approve more borderline mortgage applications and/or use the scheme to offer better terms to the borrower. The GGS is a hidden gem that we commonly access for the benefit of our clients.

The other positive is that, when done correctly, mortgage costs tend to be lower than the rentals, meaning businesses can more easily show affordability, add an asset, remove risk and reduce their outgoings.

As landlords see their existing mortgage deals expiring, and those costs suddenly increase, the trend of offering commercial tenants the chance to buy looks set to accelerate.

INTERVIEW

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Emotional ties

Tester & Jones recently celebrated 20 years in business. Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine discovers what makes this company so unique…

C

rowborough-based SAIFapproved independent funeral director, Tester & Jones Funeral Services, recently marked its 20th anniversary of supporting families in the town. The team, headed by Glenys Jones, invited local clergy and their colleagues into their office in London Road to commemorate its birthday over a delicious afternoon tea.

Reverend Steve Rees from All Saints Church in Crowborough said prayers for the services Tester & Jones provides and for the pastoral support it offers to families; while the Mayor of Crowborough, Councillor Matthew Street, spoke very passionately about the impact Tester & Jones has made on the town over the past two decades. Glenys said she was grateful to everyone for attending and also took the time to thank the Tester & Jones team for everything they do.

Tester & Jones’ full-time funeral arrangers – including Branch Manager Sharon, Kim, Jo, Mandy and William – have a wealth of knowledge to help and guide families through every aspect of the funeral arrangements and, along with Glenn and Mike and the firm’s dedicated pallbearers, ensure every aspect of the funeral service runs smoothly on the day. The team understands that no two funerals are the same, because every family and their loved one is unique.

One area which sets Tester & Jones apart from other funeral directors is the continued support the team gives families after a funeral has taken place –

particularly through its Bereavement Group (the BGs), which was launched 15 years ago and now has more than 100 members.

Twenty years after launching Tester & Jones, Glenys says: “I really care about the community here in Crowborough and its surrounding villages and want to continue supporting local people, offering traditional care and attention to our families. We are here 24/7 to answer your calls, whatever time of the day or night.”

Tel: 01892 611811 (24 hours) www.testerandjones.co.uk

INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

47

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

More than words

For this month’s Community Heroes feature, Sarah Raine spends time with Hannah Gee, entrepreneur, coach, co-organiser of Word Up, Founder of Love Inc and Disruptive Creative and all-round cheerleader of creativity Hannah, many people know you for the tireless work you and Dan Culmer (Dwella) do to support the spoken word through Word Up, tell us a bit about it…

Dan started Word Up in 2013.

As a poet and rapper, he felt that there wasn’t an outlet for contemporary poetry and spoken word in the local area.

Word Up welcomes people of all ages and from all walks of life, it is a multi-cultural, diverse and inclusive group. I joined Dan in 2021 after selling my business Love Inc. I had discovered my passion for poetry during lockdown and I wanted to give back and find a new purpose. Dan is the most incredibly creative mind, so my skills in strategy, administration, bookings, comms and generating funding played perfectly to his strengths.

Where does all the Word Up magic happen?

Word Up takes place on the first Wednesday evening of every month at The Old Auction House, and we regularly get audiences of 90-100 people with around 30 people, ranging from 14- 75 years old, performing. We play a part in many of our local festivals including Unfest, TW Fringe Festival, TW Literature Festival and Art of the Pantiles. In addition, we run sessions in primary and secondary schools which are fantastic.

Are you currently offering sessions for the workplace too?

We already deliver this for businesses looking for a more informal team-bonding

she was ready. Fast forward to 2024, and she is now in demand at paid poetry gigs in London and has a publishing deal.

“

I try to help Word Up members to aim for the stars - it is a huge privilege when you see them flourish

” workshop. The camaraderie at the end of a session is electric, not just because they have built up confidence to speak in front of each other, but quite often the words they use are emotive and personal, so it often allows people to see a different side to their colleagues. Businesses like our employee workshops because the fees we receive enable us to provide free school sessions to state schools struggling financially, so they are paying it forward too.

What do you say to encourage anyone looking to try out poetry for the first time?

We have many people who come and listen to the sessions for a while and then try it out for themselves. LizzieRose came to Word Up for four years before she decided

You are a huge cheerleader for local emerging young poets, tell us about this…

I try to help Word Up members to aim for the stars, and it is a huge privilege when you see them flourish. Just recently three of our girls were the warm-up act for the Gil ScottHeron songbook at The Forum, it was such a great experience for them. In 2025, we are launching a competition for young people to collaborate with renowned Street Artist Miguel Fernandez from Mafe Art Studio, to write poetry about their thoughts on smart phones, which he will illustrate and put into street art in London. It is wonderful to see the friendships being made at Word Up. Youth mental health has never been a more important topic and yet for many teenagers finding an outlet for expression or creativity can often be challenging.

What are your hopes for your new business venture, Disruptive Creative, in 2025?

I think as a nation, we lack the personal touch and human interaction, in the way we do business. My vision is to support businesses to develop bespoke, personalised approaches to winning new clients. It could be sending them a gift that appeals to one of their hobbies, it could be delivering a hand-written letter, it could be taking coffee to their offices every day for a week. All I know is that we are bombarded by cold marketing all the time, and we need to be disruptive and memorable to cut through the noise!

How can people support Word Up? Later this year we will formally register as a CIC which will enable us to receive charitable donations from individuals, businesses and grants which will help us to grow even further.

Tickets to monthly Word Up sessions cost £5 (and are free to anyone in full-time education).

For more information head to the Word Up website www.wordup-poetry.org or follow them @word.uptw

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

FEATURE

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“We’ve been incredibly impressed by your creativity” In his regular column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID announces the winners of the Big Reveal Christmas Windows…

“

The focus of our last campaign for 2024 was to encourage people to support local when it came to shopping and socialising over the festive period

”

Residents and visitors to the town voted for their favourites from 14 – 28 November, whittling it down to a final twelve who went on to be finalists as part of a ‘12 days of Christmas’ focus. Final voting on the twelve closed on Thursday 19 December and the overall winners were announced on 20 December.

After an initial 1,000+ votes in round one, we had around 500 votes for the second round, and we are delighted to shine a spotlight on your Big Reveal winners:

Photography: David Bartholomew

T

he focus of our Christmas campaign 2024 was to encourage people to support local when it came to shopping and socialising over the festive period. It is a crucial trading window for our retailers and hospitality venues, but it is also a time when all the town’s businesses want to showcase their community spirit and say thank you to their staff and customers.

The Big Reveal Christmas Trail 2024, sponsored by Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, gave the town an opportunity to do just that, with over 50 retailers, hospitality businesses and professional services organisations revealing their creative, exciting Christmas displays.

WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY: RTW's Alex Green and Paul Reader of Berry and Lamberts , who sponsored The Big Reveal, with 2024 winners Stampede.

Winner: Stampede

A well-deserved win for the team at Stampede Shoes on Camden Road, who are renowned for the brilliant effort they always put into their seasonal displays. We have to mention their unfailing commitment to festive fun, by dressing up as elves in store every Friday.

Congratulations Team Stampede!

Second: The Tunbridge Wells Hotel

Julian Leefe-Griffiths, Owner of The Tunbridge Wells Hotel talked us through the venue’s brilliant design which incorporated a huge Grinch-style Hotel busboy and a colony of penguins. Why? Because the team there simply love

penguins! A very well done for a worthy second place.

Third: Glass by Claudia

One of the most beautiful window displays on the trail, each piece of blue glass was uniquely designed by Claudia to bring a winter wonderland magic to her window. Great effort Claudia and congratulations on third place.

In addition, the RTW Together team, who visited all the windows, decided to also offer the following worthy awards:

Most Creative : Ripples

The team at Ripples delivered a fun, creative display involving elves getting up to mischief in one of their bath tubs.

Most Community Focused : Oxfam Bookshop

The staff and volunteers created a fun Santa ‘stuck in the chimney’ scene in their window, plus it is so much more than a charity shop, it’s a space where people chat, swap books and engage in the community.

Most Sustainable : Manic Ceramix

We were incredibly impressed by the work they put in to ensure the bulk of their display was made from recycled materials.

(1) Winner- Stampede (2) 2nd Place - Tunbridge Wells Hotel, (3) 3rd Place - Glass by Claudia, (4) “Creative Award” - Ripples Bathrooms, (5) “Community Award” - Oxfam Bookshop, (6) “Sustainability Award” - Manic Ceramix.

Honourable mentions also go to The Finance Hub, Brittens, Maybugs, The Ivy, The Cove and Silver Sheep who were also commended for their efforts and delivering great displays!

RECRUITMENT

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

How to get the job done…

In his first column for 2025 Neil Simmons, founder and Managing Director of TN Recruits tells employers how they can master job Interviews and in turn secure top talent

I

negotiable, design your questions n today’s competitive job around these competencies to market, recruiting topassess the candidate effectively. tier talent is about more Thoroughly review the than simply conducting CV beforehand. Familiarise a standard interview. The yourself with the candidate’s process is a two-way street— previous roles and employers. while you, as an employer, This preparation enables you to ultimately decide whether ask targeted questions, to offer the job, the helping you gauge their candidate also evaluates suitability and potential whether they want to join contribution to your your organisation. If you Speed matters. The team. can provide a standout Creating a positive interview experience, best candidates won’t atmosphere is equally you'll increase the stay on the market for critical. Ensure your likelihood of securing the existing staff are best candidates. long, so streamline engaged in the process Preparation is key. Start your process and foster a welcoming by being clear about the environment. Candidates role's requirements and often tell us they want to the attitude you seek in a join a friendly, supportive candidate. While skills are team—a place where they feel they essential, attitude often carries greater belong. Considering they will spend 35-40 weight. After all, skills can be taught, hours a week with your team, making a but the right mindset is harder to instil. good impression is vital.

However, if specific core skills are non-

“

”

Speed matters. The best candidates won’t stay on the market for long, so streamline your process. While maintaining a robust interview structure, minimise delays between key stages.

Respond quickly to applications, and avoid unnecessary gaps between first and second interviews.

Sometimes, securing top talent means going the extra mile—whether that’s staying late to accommodate a candidate’s schedule or arranging an early meeting.

Small adjustments like these can make a significant difference in your ability to attract and hire the best fit for your organisation.

By mastering the interview process, you position your company as a sought-after employer. Start 2025 on the right foot by turning interviews into opportunities to inspire candidates and build a winning team.

GET IN TOUCH WITH TN RECRUITS: Call: 01892 571105 Website: www.tnrecruits.com

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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FEATURE

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RECRUITMENT

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Happy New Year Tunbridge Wells Business Community, from all of us at Recruitment Solutions.

stablished 25 years ago, we help companies recruit permanent, temporary and fixed term staff, with a key and simple objective, to deliver the service we would wish to receive.

The recruitment world is vibrant and fast paced one, and as a company you may only ever be 4 weeks away from needing a new member of staff. How so I hear you say? Well with the average notice period for a Uk employee being just 4 weeks, a vacancy can often come as a surprise.

2025 is sure to be a year of challenge, as we all adapt to the new, new and through it all, we are here to help.

Good people have always been in demand, and they remain the backbone of any company’s success—driving exceptional service, customer experience, and innovation. We have teh areas largest pool of talent from which to match to your needs, whatever they may be.

The effective use of temporary staff is

anticipated to continue = why? Because they offer flexibility, and value for money Interviewing is changing! There has been a huge shift to skills-first hiring is gaining momentum, with companies

increasingly valuing practical abilities and real-world experience over formal qualifications. A LinkedIn report highlights that 76% of UK hiring managers now prioritize skills over degrees. Through

our interviews we identify the skills, experience and capability of a candidate alongside education to allow us to match and shortlist the right people for your consideration.

The dawn of 2025 brings a wealth of opportunities for businesses ready to embrace change and focus on peoplecentric practices. Adaptability, innovation, and a commitment to fostering strong, motivated teams wis key to building and retaining a strong workforce.

At the heart of it all, our mission is to connect businesses with the right talent, enabling them to thrive while making a meaningful impact on individuals’ lives.

Every role we fill contributes to building stronger companies and stronger communities. Isn’t it time to partner with a recruitment agency that understands your unique needs?

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Tunbridge Wells 01892 540054 Sevenoaks 01732 746604 Kings Hill 01732 920630 www.recsol.co.uk hello@recsol.co.uk

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T: 01892 300360 info@gfhr.co.uk gfhr.co.uk

T: 01892 300360 | info@gfhr.co.uk gfhr.co.uk

FEATURE RECRUITMENT

JANUARY 2025 TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Current Vacancies Front of House/Receptionist

Private Client/Probate Solicitor

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

Tunbridge Wells Circa £65,000 A leading private client team in the Southeast.

Hybrid working. Generous bonus scheme.

Career Pathway Applications: emma@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

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

Helping companies grow by sourcing the best talent

Phone: 01892 571105 Website: www.tnrecruits.com

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PROPERTY

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

All change for the rental market?

Are you a landlord concerned about the proposed Renters Reform Bill? Find out everything you need to know courtesy of TNLettings’s founder Becky Moran who will also be hosting webinars on this subject later this month…

T

here has been a lot of discussion and speculation about what the Renters Reform Bill will be like, and although it is yet to be a paper, many landlords within the property market are a little worried about what the future may hold.

This is despite the fact there is very little factual information currently available about what it will entail…

“

Main takeaways of the proposed Renters Reform Bill:

The rental market still looks bright for investment properties

“

Naturally, it has got those with rentals concerned about where they stand. There is concern about how they may be able to evict a tenant if they need the property back for whatever reason, or if they need to move a tenant on because they are not fulfilling their requirements as a tenant, such as looking after the property or paying the bills associated with it.

A letting agent has always been a good option for those who wish to have someone manage a property on their behalf. They can also be a useful resource that bridges the gap between landlords and tenants, while also being a solid source of information, including regarding the proposed Rental Reform Bill.

As experts within the property rental market, we at TN Lettings can assist and help talk people through everything so far. We’re looking to host an online presentation in January 2025 for all those who wish to learn everything that has been mentioned about the new proposals in a digestible and simple way, ensuring you’re in the best position to know what your rights as landlords will be.

With so much speculation and discussion about the proposals, it’s a good idea to gain clarity over the key points that it’s set to potentially affect. These include the following: Section 21 A section 21 notice is a legal document that starts the process of ending an assured shorthold tenancy (AST) in England. It’s also known as a ‘no-fault’ notice because the landlord doesn’t need to provide a reason for eviction.

The planned proposals are aiming to abolish it. Landlords will simply need a reason to evict their tenants if they wish to do so. If you want to move back into it or put it on the property market, you’ll still be allowed to do so. It’s not an issue that needs to be worried about.

Fixed-Term Tenancies Another topic of the proposed Renters Reform Bill is the fixed-term tenancies aspect. This has started to cause concern among landlords as it proposes to end them and introduce periodic tenancies that do not have an end date.

Again, it shouldn’t be that big of a problem in the future. Most tenants will be looking for a home that they can stay in for a long period of time and not move just after a couple of months.

Nonetheless, as letting agents, we have started to make sure that there is a

system in place that works for landlords, and we’re firm believers that we have managed to get a perfect one.

Rent Increases & Tribunal Action Rent increases can happen but the new Renters Reform Bill proposes that tenants can take landlords to a tribunal if they don’t agree with them. Of course, this is something that will cause many to worry, but it needn’t.

Rent increases should be about the market value, and it can have a potentially negative impact on the tenant if they do go to a tribunal. They may find that they are paying under the value of the market, and if they disagree with a fair and true increase, they could end up paying more.

Rental market is still a solid investment opportunity While there can be concern about its proposals, there is a long way to go regarding the Renters Reform Bill. At the same time, we don’t think that there is anything that landlords and those looking to buy-to-let need to worry about. The market still looks bright for investment properties.

If you’d like to reserve a spot on TN Letting’s Renters Reform Bill webinar and have all the information you need about it, please email: info@tnlettings.co.uk

PROPERTY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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.

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“THAT’S A WRAP FOR 2024”

A SELECTION OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS DURING 2024

Decimus Park, North Farm Ind. Est. High spec. warehouse/ office premises of 9491 sq ft leased to Xylem Water.

Camden Road Sale of a retail / health & leisure building of 2066 sq ft to private co. for owner occupation.

Mount Pleasant House, Longfield Road, Lonsdale Gardens.

North Farm Ind. Est. Cat. A offices of 2500 sq ft leased Refurbished industrial unit of 9335 to Howdens Insurance. sq ft lease to Italo Pizza Labs.

High Street Acquisition of retail lease and fixtures & fittings on behalf of Walsh Bros.

COMMERCIAL AGENTS & CHARTERED SURVEYORS

Mount Pleasant Road Letting of the former TSB to Retirement Villages Group.

G - 1370 sq ft / B - 1120 sq ft.

The Pantiles House, Nevill Street Refurbished ground floor office space of 2320 sq ft leased to Kims Hosiptal.

High Street Sale of leasehold interest of Wine Bar over ground and basement to Corrk.

01892 552 500 INFO@DURLINGS.CO.UK

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How to move on up in the property market In her first column for 2025, Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential offers advice on what first-time buyers can do in order to avoid paying Stamp Duty ahead of big changes this coming April…

F

your estate agent needs to galvanise into action, preparing marketing material and speaking to their buyer book.

rom 1st April 2025, Stamp Duty Land Tax rates are changing back to the levels before the temporarily increased thresholds introduced in September 2022. Whilst this change will impact everyone planning to move, it’s first-time buyers who will be the most affected - and they often drive activity across the market.

Currently, they pay no stamp duty when buying a home worth £425,000, but this threshold will drop to £300,000, resulting in an extra £6,250 stamp duty.

Understandably therefore, many are keen to beat this deadline. Under English Law, property transactions have always been time-consuming, and the average time from offer to completion is currently 16 weeks. So unless you are already under offer now, how can you possibly meet the deadline?!

Well the good news is that with a realistic price on a saleable property, and the right people around you, you could still be in with a chance. Here’s my checklist on what to do and when…

Both buyers and sellers should engage with property professionals who are known for their speed and efficiency - and this includes solicitors, financial advisers, surveyors and estate agents.

With conveyancers, you get what you pay for! We work with some phenomenal local solicitors, who are instrumental in the speed that a deal transacts, but we also know the solicitors to avoid! Also get ‘legally prepared’ and speak to your solicitor to understand what can be included in a seller’s pack. We equally know great mortgage brokers and surveyors, and with the right people in place, a transaction can speed along. So listen to the recommendations of your agent, and once under offer, make sure they regularly check on progress and communicate across all parties to release any blockages.

1. Move Quickly

3. The Power of being Chain-Free

If you are a seller wanting to attract a motivated buyer, you need to list your property for sale fast - and then ensure it is desirable as possible. Well-presented properties were the star of the show in the property market of 2024, and this will continue through 2025. So declutter, tidy, and make quick improvements, and be realistic on your listing price – this is not the time to be aspirational! Equally,

2. Choose Wisely

The more links there are in the chain, the more areas of weakness, since you will only go as fast as your weakest link. The chain-free buyer, who is not relying on a related property sale, has the best chance of meeting the deadline. Equally the chain free seller, who does not need to tie in a related sale will be very attractive. Maddisons has a large lettings’ portfolio, and so we

Property News HISTORIC JEWELLERS 'RETURNS’ TO HIGH STREET Following the closure of Mappin & Webb in Tunbridge Wells High Street last year, it was announced in December that its Grade II heritage premises at No 19 will continue to be a jewellers.

Commerical property agents Durlings have successfully acquired the leasehold interest from The Watches of Switzerland Group on behalf of their client, independent jeweller Walsh Bros who already have a popular shop on Mount Pleasant.

A spokesperson for Durlings told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine that the shop, which was originally occupied by the 19th century jeweller George Farrer, will incorporate the historic brand

in its trading name and will be known as Walsh at George Farrer.

The Durlings spokesperson added: “The High Street in Tunbridge Wells continues to go from strength to strength with other new openings due soon so watch this space.”

NEW BUSINESS CENTRE NOW OPEN Durlings have also announced that the new Tavis House Business Centre in

“Currently, there is no stamp duty for first-time buyers when buying a home worth £425,000, but this threshold will drop to £300,000, resulting in an extra £6,250 stamp duty from April 1st 2025” regularly help our sellers break the chain by moving into our managed rental properties.

There is no doubt that unless you are already under offer, time is now against you. However, post the pandemic, dreadful transaction delays have become the norm, so maybe now is the chance to re-set the average and show how fast a deal can go with great people involved. The fastest transaction that I have ever been involved with was just 14 days! I doubt this will ever be beaten, but certainly I believe it should be shorter than the average of four months. As we say in Maddisons: “Excellence is not a skill set. It’s an attitude.” www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk Chapman Way is now open with units available to view and rent.

“We recently held a London and regional commercial agents’ breakfast launch at Tavis House,” Durlings’ Rupert Farrant told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

There are five new high specification industrial and warehouse units to let boasting 10,481 SQ FT to 90,315 SQ FT. For more information or enquiries visit www.durlings.co.uk

PROPERTY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Are you looking to change agents or are you ready to have your property fully managed?

We can transfer you to TN Lettings With NO SET UP FEE! 2 months free 10% thereafter

01892 249070 info@tnlettings.co.uk

Your Trusted, Local, Independent Letting Agents

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After Hours Where to wind down in the Wells

CULTURE CLUB

Experience the wonderful world of LIMEKILN

CHEF'S SPECIAL We pull up a stool at Robin Read’s The Counter restaurant

HOUSE RULES How to streamline your life for 2025

ARTISTIC VALUES We meet the team at Castle Fine Art

GO GLOBAL Where will you journey to in the world this year?

OUTSIDE EDGE Achieve those horticultural goals for your garden

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“Bringing a touch of the East to the town’s main promenade” Essence at The Pantiles opened last February, bringing a touch of the East to the town’s gastronomic scene. Since launching it has been a roaring success and here its Events and Marketing Manager Bibi Roy tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine how Atul Kochhar and Jitindar Singh’s second culinary collaboration in Kent has fared in its first year - and what’s to come in 2025 for the popular Pantiles restaurant...

W

hen Atul and Jitindar asked me to find a home for their new concept in Royal Tunbridge Wells, I jumped at the chance of recommending the old Woods site. This much-loved, two-story Grade II listed space has been lavishly transformed, taking inspiration from the grand architecture of Rajasthan, one of my favorite places to visit in all of India. With a stunning bar area, luxurious main restaurant and private dining on our mezzanine, we are able to cater for events across a number of spectrums, having built a reputation for exemplary service and outstanding Pan-Indian cuisine.

“

Heading into 2025 is an exciting time for us as we build on Essence’s success over the last year

”

Heading into 2025 is an exciting time for us as we build on the success of the last year. So many of our guests have become loyal regulars, booking lunch and dinner across the week, thanks to our incredibly reasonable set menus and eclectic a la carte offering, curated by Chef Atul. The early part of the year can be a quiet time

in hospitality, but our diary is already busy with birthdays, anniversaries and business conferencing, to name but a few. Sadly, it is also a time for wakes, yet our trusted team are known for their respectful approach which allows guests to feel at ease when remembering their loved ones lost.

As the seasons change, moods lift with the happy thoughts of alfresco dining on the terrace and outside catering in country gardens. Our kitchen comes alive with creations ready for those red roseadorned February tables in celebration of love. Spring lamb dishes and chocolate

delights appear on our menus, as children give thanks to their mothers whilst thereafter chasing Easter bunnies. All the while we are ready to meet the discerning tastes of our loyal patrons who continue to introduce us to new friends.

Here’s to 2025 and all she brings! essencerestaurants.co.uk

Images by Key & Quill

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A Healthspa for all Seasons…

ALL ARE WELCOME FOR SPA DAYS, BEAUTY TREATMENTS AND FITNESS CLASSES. 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.

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

Find your fitness after Christmas with our Six week health, fitness & wellbeing programme…

This transformative package includes: • • • •

•

Initial consultation to assess your fitness goals and create a customized plan.

Two weekly personal training sessions to guide your workouts and maximize results.

Expert nutrition advice to support your fitness journey.

Bespoke facial treatments tailored to your skin’s unique needs for optimal health and radiance.

Lymphatic drainage or deep tissue massage to reduce fluid retention, detoxify the body, and promote relaxation.

Plus a weekly complimentary “power” smoothie from our café to keep you energized and inspired.

To find out more scan the QR.

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Counter

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

very small radius - the thinking behind the cooking here is bold but also an inventive homage to some serious culinary classics.

And that stems from Robin’s professional experience. He cut his teeth training under the Roux brothers and has also worked with the late, legendary Nico Ladenis as well as Marco Pierre White, while he was at Mirabelle. Robin also held the title of Executive Chef at the Firmdale Group of Hotels for 16 years overseeing the menus at places such as the Covent Garden and Charlotte Street hotels.

After leaving London he successfully ran an early version of The Counter as a pop-up at the Daily Bread in Rusthall for a number of months between 2022 and

intuitive

“Since opening, The Counter

Photography: Stuart Mack

has been an extremely popular destination for passionate foodies after an adventurous, exciting and cleverly executed dining experience

The talented chef Robin Read opened The Counter, his first restaurant in Tunbridge Wells last April. Since then it has gone on to become one of the area’s most talked about and popular places to enjoy an adventurous epicurean experience. Eileen Leahy pulls up a stool at The Counter to enjoy one of the many tasting menus on offer – all of which have seasonality, sustainability, provenance and innovation as their key ingredients…

I

never thought in a million years I would hear my husband say that he actually enjoyed a truffle dish – he finds the expensive edible fungus unpalatable but then equally, I’d never have thought I would admit to enjoying a dish with faggots at its heart. And yet here we are both having what I can only describe as an epicurean epiphany – but that’s what dining at Robin Read’s The Counter on Calverley Road can do to a person and their taste buds.

The restaurant opened its doors in April last year and since then it has been an extremely popular destination for passionate foodies who are after an adventurous, exciting and cleverly executed dining experience.

There’s a choice of three seasonal tasting menus: offering five (£60), 8 (£95) and 10 courses (£125) per person. A three, six and eight glass wine pairing is

priced at £36, £72 and £96 per person respectively and the wine list has been expertly curated by Robin’s wife Greta Boccia, which features an impressive and extensive mix of both local Kent and Sussex wines.

The Counter also does a three-course lunch menu, which is available on Thursday and Friday lunchtimes from midday to 2.30pm and the restaurant itself, which is housed in a charming Georgian double fronted building, is open Wednesday to Saturday.

When The Guardian’s food critic and new Masterchef host Grace Dent visited The Counter last summer she was quick to extoll its sybaritic virtues, describing Robin Read’s cooking as ‘precise’ ‘delicious’ and ‘sleek’.

With a strong focus on the very best seasonal produce and provenance - most of the ingredients are sourced from a

”

2023. But Robin has always had a dream to open his own restaurant – something which is now very much a reality as it heads towards its first anniversary this spring.

On the evening my husband and I dined there we knew, as soon as we slipped behind the voile curtain that divides you from everyday life and this slice of culinary nirvana, that things immediately felt very special.

The double fronted building, which dates back to Georgian times, was acquired last January by Robin and Greta and they have worked hard to make it not just one of the town’s most sought-after restaurants to eat in but to spend time in too.

When we arrived one chilly December night, the log burner in the intimate dining area was crackling away with each of the restaurant’s chic bistro style tables full of flickering candles and contented diners.

The cosy ambience was further amplified courtesy of the period building’s moody inky walls, atmospheric lighting and musical soundtrack – for our visit it was a funky mix of Tom Misch and Loyle Carner.

So far, so very cool…

We were invited to sample the tencourse tasting menu which is exclusively available at the restaurant’s ‘Chef’s Counter’. This is where you get to witness Robin and his small kitchen brigade create their culinary theatrics; slicing, stirring and searing – you have a bird’s eye view on everything that goes on.

Settling in with a glass of fizz from East Sussex, our gastronomic journey started with the first of our ten courses – a

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

crusty sliver of potato rosti topped with salty seaweed and delivered on a cute mini wooden board. It was gone in one bite and set us up for the next course: a few warm chunks of sticky malted sourdough served with a vegetable broth that was rich and satisfying. The bread was accompanied by shards of salty Chiddingstone butter – the only thing Robin told us that isn’t made in-house as he just can’t better it.

If you dine at the Chef’s Counter then Robin will talk you through the thinking behind each course and sometimes you might just get a preview of what he’s cooking up for a future menu. On the night we were there he told us that sustainability plays a big role in his cooking: “We try to use every morsel of a seasonal ingredient. The broth for example has been made using left over vegetables so its taste varies daily. Why wouldn’t you use every bit up if something is at its seasonal best?”

Before we knew it, Robin was then presenting us with the third dish of the night: cured chalk stream trout. The fish, which is filleted sashimi style, is plated up with a smooth cauliflower puree, spiked with the tiniest hint of Scotch bonnet and adorned with wafer thin slices of pickled radish. It looked like a work of art and tasted like one too. A small glass of Chateau Lestrille, a white Bordeaux, was a great pairing by our dedicated sommelier.

Next up was the aforementioned Eridge Estate game faggot: a rich, moreish confection comprising pieces of mallard and venison meat and further enriched by a red wine jus, a slick of brandy and hits of black pepper and chervil puree. It was utterly sensational but gone too quickly.

Following this was a truffle pasta dish, which Robin said was optional. Now I honestly thought my husband would politely decline it. But no, he went straight in and was surprisingly beguiled by its ‘earthy mushroom-like’ appeal.

Robin told us that he doesn’t head out to traditional places like Piedmonte in Italy for his truffles as he can source them

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from a farm in Wiltshire which has been going for 15 years or so. Another great example of his commitment to being as sustainable as possible.

A plump, perfectly caramelised hand dived Orkney scallop was up next and was further enhanced with a sweet celeriac puree (with more truffle shavings) and red wine. It was peppery yet sweet with just the right amount of crunch.

A word of warning though: you have to be careful not to overindulge at this point as the portions are plentiful and you’re only halfway through…

“The cured chalk stream trout is

filleted sashimi style and plated up with a smooth cauliflower puree, spiked with the tiniest hint of Scotch bonnet and adorned with wafer thin slices of pickled radish

”

Luckily the next course, Dover sole, was as light as a feather. Cooked slowly with tarragon, it was incredibly fragrant and fresh and accompanied by a luscious terrine and heritage carrots.

Once the dishes were cleared, the sommelier swapped our white wine glasses for red ones and suggested a glass of Prieure de Cenac, a hearty Malbec from Cahors in South West France to accompany the next two meat courses.

These consisted of a melt-in-the-mouth beef filet poached in vegetable broth, and a rump of aged Sussex beef – a charred on top, yet pink in the middle delight elevated further by a trio of beetroot crostini, broccoli florets and spinach puree.

After a brief pause, a cup of Sicilian pink grapefruit tea was a welcome palate cleanser before we were ready for the final straight: dessert.

This took the form of an 85% chocolate fondant ‘bombe’ embellished further with a quenelle of Chiddingstone cream and a dusting of dried thyme. Indulgent, yes but who could resist such a combination –

especially when it came with a small glass of Rivesaltes, described as ‘Christmas pudding in a bottle’ by our friendly and informative sommelier.

As anyone who has been to The Counter on Calverley Road – or the previous pop-up at The Daily Bread – will know, the feasting finishes with Robin’s now legendary wooden ‘Sweet Tower’ which for us boasted a variety of homemade truffles, fudge and mini palmier biscuits and canele cakes.

The Counter is certainly a place you can eulogise endlessly about such is its high calibre of clever and innovative cooking all executed with exceptional vision, flair and skill. And the good news is there’s now going to be a second helping as Robin and his team launch Under the Counter.

This, I am told, is Robin's chance to experiment and ‘have a little fun’ while doing so. Inspired by the Japanese term ‘kappo’, meaning to ‘cut and cook’, it’s an all-encompassing word for a more casual dining experience that is interactive between the diner and chef. For each evening Robin will choose one type of cuisine or celebrate one hero ingredient.

So you can expect Japanese inspired small plates, fresh pasta and seafood feasts.

The first event happens on January 22 so what are you waiting for?

Website: www.thecountertw.com Instagram: @the_counter_tw

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An appetite for healthier eating If you’re committing to eating healthier for 2025 then you’ll be pleased to hear that new research from Slimming World shows that by joining a dedicated weight loss support group can quickly restore self-belief, self-confidence and self-determination when it comes to staying on track. Local group leader Jesse Fuller explains more and suggests some winter warmers to feast on

I

n new research, which surveyed more than 7,000 new Slimming World members last January, more than two thirds said that before going to a Slimming World group, they didn’t dare dream they could lose weight and stay slim (69%).

More than half of the members surveyed said that they’d had feelings of doubt, uncertainty and a lack of motivation and control for more than a year – with some people admitting they’d lacked this for 10 years or more.

GROUP EFFORT

“

In a recent survey it was discovered that Slimming World members who joined a designated group left feeling:

Slimming World was the first weight loss club in the UK to consider the practical and psychological needs of slimmers

DID YOU KNOW? Before joining a Slimming World group, only 40% of new members believed they could lose weight, but after just one session, this rose to 97%

”

However, in just one session, almost every new member left filled with self-belief, self-confidence and selfdetermination. This switch came from learning more about Slimming World’s health-giving eating plan, seeing the success of other members, and experiencing the empowering support to help them overcome their personal barriers.

WHY FOOD OPTIMISING IS THE BEST WAY TO LOSE WEIGHT Slimming World was the first weight loss club in the UK to consider the practical and psychological needs of slimmers, and to understand the importance of how we think when it comes to solving the problems of being overweight.

BANISHING DEPRIVATION Slimming World’s stroke of genius is the concept of Free Food, formulated specifically to help members avoid feeling like they’re missing out and that they need to rebel.

We know it’s no good telling people they can enjoy unlimited carrots or eat salad until it’s coming out of their ears. It leaves us hungry, uninspired and feeling

•

Committed to their weight loss (98%)

•

That they could lose weight and keep it off (96%)

•

Motivated to make changes to their lifestyle in order to lose weight (97%)

•

More confident to manage the things that had previously got in the way of them losing weight (89%)

deprived – and most likely doomed to yet another ‘failure’.

the time of eating, so you’ll want to stop earlier – and you might even find you’re leaving food on your plate until you get used to serving yourself less.

WITH FOOD OPTIMISING....

•

you eat until you’re satisfied

•

you’re actively encouraged to enjoy your food, rather than see it as the enemy

•

the idea is to pile your plate high with normal, everyday foods that will satisfy the heartiest appetite – things like eggs, lean meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, pasta, pulses and grains

Being given a long list of unlimited Free Food might seem outrageous; it certainly doesn’t fit the stereotypical idea of a ‘diet’. Understandably, slimmers are often sceptical at first, having lived much of their lives in fear of ‘forbidden foods’. Being able to enjoy the vast range of unrestricted Free Food is wonderfully freeing, though.

SO, WITH ALL THAT FREE FOOD, WON’T I GO OVER THE TOP? Fascinatingly, the answer is no! A combination of factors comes into play: •

Free Food scores very highly on the satiety index. This means your appetite is more than satisfied at

•

You feel fuller for longer, too, so you get to the next meal without any urgent feelings of hunger and are able manage snack attacks.

The subconscious urge to rebel against so many negative messages around food – the don’ts, shouldn’ts and mustn’ts – starts to dissolve. Those internal battles (which we’re often not even aware of) do more damage than many of us realise, and diminish our ability to feel confident, happy and in control. Instead, we feel more at peace with ourselves and with food.

Jesse Fuller is Slimming World Consultant and Team Developer For Tunbridge Wells & Crowborough. If you are interested in joining one of his groups call 07710 549334 or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk

AFTER HOURS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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

Now available for exclusive private hire, parties and weddings, Please enquire online or scan here

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“No one leaves here unhappy – or hungry”

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Looking for an exceptional dining experience with a difference? Then meet the team at Silk House Dining… cooking so it made sense to do something like this,” explains Adrian.

He and Silke had the idea to launch themselves into the world of hospitality in July 2024 after feedback from many of the visitors who would come to their home as part of the National Gardens Scheme open days.

“They would ask us why we weren’t opening up our kitchen and dining area to the general public. They clearly wanted more than just cake!” laughs Silke. “Since then word about us has spread about Silk House Dining and we have grown a real community here.”

Talking of growing, Adrian say they have an abundant kitchen garden in which most of the vegetables and herbs served on the menus are cultivated.

“I grow all manner of vegetables alongside things like lemongrass, chilies and peppers - and it’s all intended to supply the restaurant. We even produce our own honey. We try to serve as much

ocated down a picturesque country lane in Rhoden Green, just outside Paddock Wood, you’ll find the gates to The Silk House, which houses a private dining venue that is run by husband and wife team Adrian and Silke.

Having only been open a short while it is already becoming one of the go-to places for passionate foodies who relish the couple’s take on the traditional supper club and enjoy its intimate and friendly ambience.

When you arrive at the house you will enter into its incredible open-plan kitchen – which boasts all the tech and gadgets you would usually associate with the finest of restaurants – but beyond that is a beautiful open-plan entertaining space which boasts luxurious and extremely tasteful décor and the most stunning views of the couple’s glorious and extensive gardens.

“I’ve always loved entertaining and

CREATING BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES

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as possible from garden to plate when things are in season. Everything is organic and either dug up or harvested on the day our diners arrive. And because we are based near Hadlow we have amazing access to all the local orchards at harvest time.”

Adrian says he also uses a network of local suppliers for his fish, meat, dairy and bread etc. “We use places such as Chapmans fishmongers in Sevenoaks and an array of local butchers including Hammonds in Matfield.”

In terms of the cuisine being served how would they describe what’s on offer at Silk House Dining?

“Modern British but leaning towards worldwide fine dining experiences too,” states Adrian.

“We've travelled the world a tremendous amount and therefore experienced plenty of fantastic dishes. We love Japanese and Nordic food, as well as classic French cooking and rustic Italian and too.

“We represent good value for money and offer things that you wouldn’t necessarily get in local restaurants. It’s rare for example that you will have the opportunity to receive the chef’s table treatment but dining with us you literally will!”

Silke says that at the moment they are concentrating mainly on evening services from Thursday to Saturday with the option of Sunday lunch too. Fridays is Supper Club night while Thursdays and Saturdays is more like a restaurant style menu and service – but booking is essential.

Silk House Dining can accommodate approximately six bookings from singles, couples or groups, and usually limits its service to 12-14 guests so things still feel intimate.

Adrian and Silke are keen to point out they have a fivestar food hygiene rating and can also cater for all sorts of

dietary requirements.

Silke tells me that during the warmer weather there is the option to dine outside. “You can enjoy being surrounded by our beautiful Japanese gardens while Adrian cooks on our Big Green Egg BBQ.” The pair don’t yet have a license to serve alcohol but are working on that. In the meantime, they can serve soft drinks and welcome people to bring their own bottles of wine if so desired. The corkage is charged at £10 per bottle.

“We believe in being truly hospitable: informal, unfussy, relaxed....but we take the food seriously. No one leaves hungry or unhappy!”

TO BOOK CONTACT: Reservations@silkhousedining.com Call: 07463 897435 Instagram: @silkhousedining Silk House Dining, The Silk House, Lucks Lane, Rhoden Green, near Paddock Wood, TN12 6PA

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Orange crush Our Drinks Editor, James Viner, rings in the new year with five sophisticated on-trend orange wines, including a local cracker from Charing – and suggests the perfect whisky to ‘address the haggis’ this coming Burns Night…

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JAMES VINER

“

Once considered a ‘hipster’ choice, orange wines are slowly going mainstream

”

Burns Night dram:

T

he future is bright; the future is orange! While rosé has long enjoyed popularity, orange wine is (re)emerging as a compelling rival. This trend is driven by a growing demand for more adventurous, minimal intervention options.

Like red, food-friendly ‘orange’/ 'amber’ wine is crafted by fermenting white grape juice with skins, seeds, and sometimes stems. This process imparts an orangish tint to the wine, plus added structure and tannins. Several factors, including grape variety, ripeness, vessel choice, maceration duration and extraction methods influence the final colour.

Orange wines offer deeper colours and more intense aromas and flavours than whites, often with pithy notes and slightly lower acidity. Once considered a 'hipster' choice, orange wines are slowly going mainstream - as my selection shows.

Serve around 12°C-14°C. Happy New Year!

Must try Local orange wine: 2023 Westwell Wines Ortega Skin Contact, Charing, TN27 0BW (10.5%) Westwell Wines, located on Kent's North Downs, is part of the 'Wine Garden of England' collective. This Ortega, a very early-ripening German cross, has had two weeks of skin contact. Expect floral riffs and pithy notes of mandarin skin, stone fruit and orange peel.

One for the cheeseboard. £27 Westwell www.westwellwines.com

1. 2023 Marks & Spencer Found Organic Verdil, Spain (12%) Made from the almost extinct Verdil grape grown at around 750m, this textured, lip-smacking Valencian wine boasts a golden orange hue resulting from around three weeks of skin contact and tastes of quince, lemon balm, lime cordial and apricots. Gently grippy and attractively versatile with food (hello chicken tagine). £9 Ocado & Marks & Spencer 2. 2023 Côté Mas Orange, Domaines Paul Mas, France (13%) Scoop up this zesty, wonderfully aromatic, tangerine, slightly musky and sandalwood-scented 2023 from Languedoc. It’s an appetizing mix of 55% Grenache Blanc, 25% Grenache Gris and 20% Macabeu with just a week’s skin contact. A superb introduction to the ‘fourth colour.’ Pour with quiches, grilled fish and mild curries. £9.99 Waitrose, £1 discount 12.2-11.3 3. 2023 Cortese Nostru Orange-UTAN Bianco, Italy (12%) Nab this massively swiggable organic blend of 80% Inzolia and 20% Zibibbo from south-eastern Sicily, which suits fish and mild Asian dishes. The Inzolia was macerated for around two weeks and the Zibibbo for six. Think subtle tea leaf spice, pithy grapefruit, orange peel and apricot. Good immediate drinking with a tapering finale that has you reaching for a second glass. £14.95 - £17 N.D. John, Dylanwad Wine, Harris & Co., Reserve Wines, Cork of the North

Glen Marnoch Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (40%) Celebrate Burns Night (January 25th) with an award-winning Aldi single malt whisky.

This budget-friendly 2024 International Spirits Challenge Gold Medal winner offers mellow heather, light smoky, spicy, honey and biscuity notes.

Cheers Rabbie! £17.99 Aldi 4. 2022 Gérard Bertrand Orange Gold Organic, France (13%) Gérard Bertrand is a key player in the orange wine market and his innovative Languedoc wines are a joy, especially this zingy, organic, orchard-fruit, apricot, Mirabelle plum, almond and peachpacked gem, made from Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc and Viognier – their skins help turn the wine orange – plus Marsanne, Mauzac, Muscat and Clairette.

Very smart. Loves cheese platters. £12.99 (mix 6) Majestic 5. 2023 Bonny Doon Le Cigare Orange, USA (11.5%) With around two weeks of average skin contact, this tangy Californian blend of Grenaches Blanc and Gris, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Orange Muscat offers a lighter take on orange wine — delightful yet accessible, delivering aromas and flavours of quince, potpourri, mango, kumquat and mango. Quite the seducer.

Kudos Tesco! £15 Tesco Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines

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35 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1LS

01892 517 986

w w w. e d n e y a n d e d n e y. c o m

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Food, friends and fabulous fun LIMEKILN opened its oh-so stylish doors in April last year and since then the private hire venue has exceeded all expectations, providing a stunning space that’s just perfect for chic weddings, glamorous gatherings with friends, exclusive launches and gastro supper clubs. Eileen Leahy discovers more about the Eridge-based establishment which is giving London venues a run for their money thanks to their innovative and inspiring corporate and creative events offering…

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et in 60 glorious acres of ancient woodland in East Sussex, LIMEKILN certainly courted an awful lot of attention when it first opened in the spring of 2024.

Since then, the exclusive private-hire events lodge, which is located in Eridge, has welcomed a host of glamorous party goers. From wedding guests and lifestyle journalists to talented artists and passionate foodies – many have flocked to the fabulous venue for all manner of marriages, PR launches, workshops and special supper clubs, and so much more…

Run by the owners of Kin House, which professes to be the UK’s ‘hottest social space’, this special place is certainly not short on style. Boasting a cool confection of Pierre Frey interiors, stunning statement accessories, artwork by local painters and the most Instagrammable nooks and crannies – plus a nine-hole golf course - it is the place to see and be seen.

We caught up with the LIMEKILN team to discover what they have coming up for visitors in 2025…

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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“

Here at LIMEKILN we want to build upon our reputation as a place that offers great hosting and hospitality

” We also really enjoyed our first guest chef supper club in November with Trullo, a much beloved restaurant in London's Islington. We have more in the pipeline which we're super excited about so watch this space…

Tell us about the heritage of the LIMEKILN name...

It's taken from the Limekiln woods that surround the lodge, and reminds us of what we set out to do which is to take care of the nature around us. We are focused on re-naturalisation, planting trees to offset our carbon emissions, and have partnered with many Sussex producers to offer local and sustainable products.

So let's start at the beginning... why was the idea for LIMEKILN born?

We're always trying to push boundaries in the events industry, and we wanted to create a space where our clients can tell their story their own way without it being an uninspiring 'blank canvas'.

All the spaces are designed to be very multifunctional, and we aren't prescriptive about how they're used: we embrace new formats and ideas.

It's the sister brand to Kin House in Wiltshire - are there any similarities or is it a totally different offering?

The similarities are that they're both places focused on incredible hospitality and service, in elevated settings. They both have very different aesthetics but are spaces that have been carefully designed to deliver a seamless event experience, while having interiors that have a hotel-like feel.

Why did you choose the location in Eridge and what makes it so special?

We loved the ruralness of the surroundings and the backdrop of ancient woodland behind the lodge. It's very quiet and private and yet only five minutes from the station for any guests travelling from London.

What makes LIMEKILN so unique?

Many traditional venues have been adapted to work for events, but we have designed LIMEKILN purposefully so the flow is just right and you're not re-using any spaces. It also has a really unique interiors scheme with entirely bespokedesigned soft furnishings, and artwork by local Sussex artists.

What are your hopes for the venue for 2025?

We want to build upon our reputation as a place that offers great hosting and hospitality, with food and wine at the heart of everything we do. We want to share our passion for all that with the local community, and welcome chefs and restaurants who have the same ethos, while bringing something different to our area of East Sussex.

What kinds of events have you hosted so far and are there any dream ones you would like to collaborate on?

We've had some great brand events, and one of our favourites was with ARKIVE haircare. They used the spaces in really creative ways for workshops and a lunch.

SEE MORE AT: www.limekilnsussex.co.uk @limekilnsussex To discuss hosting your corporate or private event at Limekiln or to arrange an exclusive viewing please contact limekiln@jjlmedia.co.uk

Before we get into more detail about LIMEKILN can you give us a bit of background behind it?

It's located in such a beautiful area.

We wanted to re-naturalise and restore the land which used to be a golf course.

But we've kept the first nine holes which are available for private use.

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Get your house – and life – in order Kate Edmondson is the founder of Home Edited, a professional decluttering and organising service.

Here, the entrepreneur tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine why the start of a new year is the ideal time to streamline and simplify your life…

H

ome Edited is a professional detoxing and organisation business based in Tunbridge Wells. It was founded by local entrepreneur Kate Edmondson in 2020 with the aim of helping people take back control of their clutter, and in turn, improving their mental health.

“Our overall mission is to support our clients to love their homes by implementing manageable, simplistic and practical systems, which support longterm organised spaces by allowing life to happen and resets to be achievable,” explains Kate.

“We offer our clients solutions from 1-2-1 accountability sessions, support and advice around house sales and moving, through to full detox and/or organising days in which we support our clients to restore the calm within and around their homes.”

these decisions to be made start collating similar items together. Pick a category around the home and start bringing those things together. Categories could include, medicines, beauty products, gifting, bedding and so on. Once all your items are collated then it’s time to let go of what you no longer need or want.

“

We offer our clients solutions from 1-2-1 accountability sessions, support and advice around house sales and moving, through to full detox and/or organising days in which we support our clients to restore the calm within and around their homes.

”

kickstart you into action for a more streamlined and stress-free 2025…..

Kate goes on to say that as a busy mum of two ‘little incredible people’, she is not afraid to admit that clutter and mess has a profound impact on her own anxiety and stress levels.

“Being organised is hugely important for my own mental health and so to have my home organised gives me a clear mind. Personally feeling the benefits of keeping order in a world that has felt - and can feel - so far removed from calmness is why Home Edited was established. 2025 brings us into our 5th year of business and we are looking forward to what it has in store for us.”

With the frenetic period of Christmas and New Year now over, our day-today routine makes a return and that is exactly why Kate believes that January and February is a perfect time to embark on that home detox journey you’ve been promising yourself.

She says the hardest part can be starting, so here are her top tips to

Gain momentum with a quick win…

We always advise to start with a quick win to gain momentum. Pick an area of the home that financial and/ or sentimental guilt attachment is minimal. Removing items that are out of date, no longer needed or wanted and utilising black bin liners for disposing of obvious clutter or rubbish will give instant gratification and a much-required motivation boost. Choosing these spaces to start your detox journey reduces decision fatigue and gets the ball rolling.

Spaces such as that miscellaneous drawer, kitchen cupboards, a pantry cupboard, medicine boxes, or beauty products cluttering up shelves could be a great place to start.

Collate, Collate, Collate It's all in visualising what we have, so if you’re in doubt on where to start, and unsure if you’re ready to let go of items, then start collating. We truly believe the key to making informed decisions about what can stay and what can go is all about knowing how much you have of each particular item or category. To enable

Be prepared Before you start detoxing a space, create labelled zones. These can be sectioned off into the following: donate, sell, recycle and put away – the latter is for those items that do not belong in that space.

Utilising a bag or a box as a drop zone is perfect for this. We all know it is super easy to get distracted by other household chores or items when moving belongings around the home, so implementing a technique like this will keep your feet grounded in one space or area and before you know it piles will be created.

Utilising charity collections It’s all in an exit plan, so be sure to commit and complete once you have detoxed a space. More often than not, piles are created and then left only to build up further clutter. So utilising charity collections straight from your door such as icollect Clothes or Anglo Doorstep Collections or local charity drop centres such as Family2Family (for children’s items) mean that you have a deadline to work to which supports your end goal and overall focus. All you have to do is decide on what day they collect or you drop off and what it is you are donating, it’s as easy as that.

Ask yourself Do I want it? Do I need it?

To minimise further items that we do not want or need entering the home, make the decision before it enters. Ask yourself do I want it? Do I need it? And if neither applies don’t allow it to come in.

It’s all in being more intentional about what is coming into our homes and streamlining the overall simplicity of the spaces around us. That, in turn, increases the physical and mental space for the things that really matter.

If you would like further support in your home detox journey head to: info@homeedited.co.uk www.homeedited.co.uk Instagram @home.edited Facebook - home.edited.uk TikTok @home_edited

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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

01892327461

laspigarestaurant@gmail.com

3B Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS

Selling your business?

We can help by introducing you to prospective buyers.

Over the last 30 years of my career, like many professionals, I’ve built up a strong network of business contacts, owners and investors. Also, since we launched JJL Media & Marketing and this magazine early last year, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting more business leaders and professionals who are actively looking for acquisition opportunities. So we’ve formed the Kingmaker Acquisition Partnership, a new exclusive group of private individuals all seeking to purchase established businesses as a collective or individually.

Our panel of investors are successful and inspiring business professionals who have all launched, built and exited multi-million pound companies over the past 50 years. They’re now actively seeking to grow their portfolios with new acquisitions.

Ideally our panel are looking for opportunities with the following criteria: •

Current EBITDA of between £500K-£1m

•

Purchase price of up to £3m

•

Any sectors considered

•

Located in the Southeast UK or relocatable. Ideally in Sussex/Kent/Surrey/London

•

B2B companies preferred

•

Strong tier 2 management in situ

•

Established business with repeating revenue and solid customer base

•

Timescale: Six months to source and conclude acquisition

Our panel are looking for long-standing businesses that are already achieving profitability and can be incrementally updated, developed and improved. Our investors all have experienced teams and will consider equity motivation for key personnel.

There is no fee for this service, the core aim is to strengthen our existing business community by connecting active investors with potential business owners looking to exit their current venture.

If you’re currently or considering selling your business and are interested meeting our panel, in the first instance please contact me at nick@jllmedia.co.uk.

Nick Moore CEO of JJl Media & Marketing Ltd

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Celebrating a special King Charles anniversary Throughout 2025 the historic church of King Charles the Martyr in Tunbridge Wells will be marking the 400th anniversary of the Accession to the throne of its namesake - Charles I. It will do so courtesy of a number of celebratory events including concerts, special services and two public lectures by two highly respected scholars…

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harles I is of course one of our most controversial monarchs.

His confrontations with Parliament and his unwavering conviction that he had a divine right to rule led to the Civil War and his execution. But when the royal family were restored and his son Charles II became king, he was celebrated as a martyr.

And when a chapel was built in the new town of Tunbridge Wells shortly afterwards, making a dedication in his name was the fashionable thing to do.

Since the 1970s, there’s been a very popular annual lecture at King Charles church in January (the month of his coronation and also his execution). The lectures are all given by eminent speakers on topics

(Left) Professor Simon Thurley, Author & Architectural Historian (Below) John Wilson, Courtier to Charles I

“We’re honoured to welcome

members of the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court who are visiting Tunbridge Wells to present a programme of celebratory music to mark the King Charles 1’s 400th anniversary and to reflect our royal dedication

”

related to King Charles and his times, and have ranged from literature, music and art to theology, politics and domestic life.

To kick off the celebrations, here are three dates for your new 2025 diary: Saturday 25th January, 2:30pm: ‘Angel’s music in mortal’s dress’ – an illustrated lecture on the life and music of the influential Stuart courtier and musician, John Wilson (1595-1674). On Saturday 25th January, at 2:30pm, the church hosts a lecture with musical illustrations – half talk, half concert. It’s about the Faversham-born courtier John Wilson, who was well known to Charles I, and who worked with Shakespeare as a boy singer. Wilson was a prolific composer of over 300 songs, some of them from famous staged productions by Shakespeare and Fletcher. He went on to

become music professor at Oxford. We’ll learn about his long life and hear music by him and his contemporaries.

Saturday 29th March, 6:30pm: Concert by the Choir of the Chapel Royal, Hampton Court On Saturday 29th March, which is just two days after the actual date when James I died and Charles I came to the throne, there will be a concert in the church, accompanied by an exhibition of artefacts relating to the King and the church. On a rare trip away from London, we’re honoured to welcome the boys and men of the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court, directed by Carl Jackson who are visiting Tunbridge Wells to present a programme of celebratory music to mark the anniversary and to reflect our royal dedication.

Wednesday 24th September, 6:30pm: Lecture with cheese and wine: ‘The pleasure palaces of King Charles and Henrietta Maria’ The ‘official’ King Charles Lecture for 2025, by Professor Simon Thurley, whose recent book, Palaces of Revolution is a fascinating survey of the architecture and cultural life of the Stuart

dynasty throughout the 17th century.

Much of the church’s fundraising is for The Hall4All Campaign, which will see the first phase of its renovation kick off in 2025.

The hall was built in 1916 and the roof has never had a proper renovation.

The Church Hall is one of the bestloved community spaces in central Tunbridge Wells. It is a vibrant and well used community centre, hosting a large number of local groups, activities and classes, week in, week out. If you are interested in donating to support the hall renovation or buying a tile from as little as £20, please visit www.kcmtw. org/the-hall-for-all-project/ to find out more.

There are more exciting events in the planning for this special year, to find out more keep an eye on our socials @ kingcharlesthemartyrtw or visit www.kcmtw.org

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Hattons Events Company Specialising in bespoke private events for over 12 years in and around Tunbridge Wells

Email or call us today to discuss your event! info@hattonsevents.com or 07920745826 Hattons - The Deer Park - Hattons Events

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES worth £4.95* We currently have opportunities for consultants to join our team. Contact Jesse to find out more about these exciting opportunities 07710 549334

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Artistic endeavours Starting this month, we will be regularly chatting to local art galleries about their individual curated collections and how you can invest in them. Here we speak to Amber Pollard-Rea, Gallery Manager at Castle Fine Art on Tunbridge Wells High Street, about her favourite pieces which include a Bowie tribute by Boy George and a vintage pick-up truck by Bob Dylan…

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3 1 1 Short Love Stories - James McQueen Limited Edition of 195 Framed size: 42.0in x 61.0in | 106.7cm x 154.9cm. £2,450 Paired back neutrals and a bold splash of red, featuring several sold out titles within, this piece is perfect for Valantines Day, this artwork serves as a visual ambassador for the stories it represents, sparking curiosity and evoking emotion.

McQueen has the ability to transcend time and speak a universal language, allowing the viewer to interpret the artworks. The intimate sketches of relatable personal experiences related to life and love offer a window into the human condition, resonating with viewers across generations and borders.

2 Yamamoto - Boy George

Limited Edition of 195 Framed size: 36.0in x 45.0in | 91.4cm x 114.3cm. £1,950 Released as part of Boy George’s debut collection with Castle Fine Art, ‘Yamamoto’ is a portrait of the undisputed master of reinvention, David Bowie.

Being a Bowie fan myself this piece immediately spoke to me and serves as a fantastic homage to the designer of THAT iconic bodysuit, Kansai Yamamoto.

Boy George’s Bowie ‘obsession’ began as a child when he would repeatedly sketch him in art class at school. This fixation was cemented when, age 11, he saw Bowie perform on the Ziggy Stardust tour

wearing his famed ‘Tokyo Pop’ bodysuit.

Captivated by this vision of his idol, Boy George went on to create ‘Yamamoto’, his definitive portrait of David Bowie.

3 Green Truck - Bob Dylan

Limited Edition of 295 Framed size: 35.0in x 29.0in | 88.9cm x 73.7cm. £2,950 Released as part of Bob Dylan’s 2024 The Beaten Path collection and exclusive to Castle Fine Art, ‘Green Truck’ captures the recognisable motifs of Dylan’s work with mesmerising detail and a beautiful contrasting colour palette.

In his own words, the collection captures America “how you see it while crisscrossing the land and see it for what it’s worth.

Staying out of the mainstream and traveling the back roads, free born style”.

Dylan never fails to intrigue our clients and has a amassed a huge following since his debut collection with Castle Fine Art back in 2008. The lights outside the shop twinkle and invite the viewer to look closer and examine the range of colour used to capture this shap shot of America.

4 Let’s Get Saucy - Peter Smith

Limited Edition of 295 Framed size: 22.6in x 30.7in | 57.4cm x 78.0cm. £495 An instant crowd pleaser! Looking closer at the details will only bring more delight as viewers take in the heart shaped tomato and Impossimals ™ peeking

4 ABOUT CASTLE FINE ART Castle Fine Art is the UK's leading limited edition print and original art retailer with international delivery and galleries across the UK. For more information visit www.castlefineart.com or visit the Tunbridge Wells store on the High Street. round the bottle.

An intelligent nod to brand referencing with the Pop Art movement with intricate details and vibrant colour giving the artwork a surreal and captivating quality.

A winner with all who step into the gallery and guaranteed to earn you some brownie points!

AFTER HOURS 5 The Lovers - Johnny Depp

Limited Edition of 195 Framed size: 34.0in x 50.0in | 86.4cm x 127.0cm. £3,950 Forming part of a set of four pieces based on the traditional Tarot card deck, the paint swirls and moves within this painting as if the subjects could step out into our world.

Whilst the lovers depicts a couple in this instance, this card may represent any symbiotic relationship or reflect a harmonious balance between opposite forces: masculine and feminine, conscious and subconscious, rational and intuitive.

Wearing black and white, their matching outfits contrast with a soft purple background; marbled pools of paint reflect an earlier watercolour

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painting by Depp from which this work has been derived. The inky painting also evokes dreamlike compositions by Marc Chagall, who depicted smartly robed couples floating through the sky, often surrounded by flowers.

6 Languor Tide - Raphael Mazzucco

Original Framed size: 66.5in x 26.5in | 168.9cm x 67.3cm. £13,500 More and more clients are interested in purchasing original pieces and this piece is a stunning example of what we offer, with gorgeous shades of blues and teal with a resin finish that make you want to dive into the cool water.

By layering paint, photography, resin and hand-lettered text, the globally acclaimed photographer and sell-out artist takes viewers on a documentarystyle journey through geographic and emotional terrains. “Beauty layered with natural elements has always been my recipe. Nothing we create can compare to the perfect beauty of nature.”

“Languor Tide” was photographed in Anyox, Canada’s largest ghost town. With about eight hours of travelling of both boat ride and driving, the shoot could’ve been a difficult process given the usual rainfall in the area, but the weather was dry for the 23 days the artist was in the region.

Get Get your your New New Year Year off off to to the the best best start! start!

CooperBur nett’s Vict oria Sam on their pson & Jose firm’s new ph Oates branding differently and why they do thin gs

THE FU BRIGHTTURE'S

volving w ur busineith ss

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Connecting communities through dance Michelle Clark is the founder of Happy Me Dance and the Project Wave. Here the former BRIT School Assistant Dance Director tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine more about her invaluable work which has a strong focus on inclusivity, diversity and equality and helps to inspire everyone to feel empowered

Robin Kent Photography

Tina Chatfield Photography

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Baroness Monckton MBE, is Patron of Project Wave. When interviewed by the BBC at the House of Lords Ms Monckton said the scheme had also helped to connect parents of children with Down’s Syndrome

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do not get the support they need, ‘she said. She also said that the Project Wave initiative was ‘absolutely exceptional’ and expressed that she wanted to help expand it beyond those with Down’s Syndrome to any form of disability or those from deprived backgrounds.

James Bowdidge, chair of the Langton Green Village Society Community Hub added that the Project had been a ‘huge success ‘and ‘wonderful to come and watch’.

Robin Kent Photography

orn in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Happy Me Dance founder Michelle Clark, is an Educator, Consultant, Practitioner and Creative Director. She is a ‘passionista for dance’, an ‘advocate for transformational dance and a correspondent for BBC Radio Kent.

Michelle trained in London and the USA, was Assistant Director of Dance at The BRIT School (1995-2001) and Director of Dance (2001-2018) at top UK boarding school Brighton College. In January 2019, on the cusp of the global Covid pandemic, Michelle returned home and founded Happy Me Dance – an inclusive dance and wellness company based in RTW at The Wells Free School in King Charles Square.

Happy Me Dance teach and inspire children and adults of all ages and abilities. The group also offers a unique focus on connection and wellbeing and a mission to inspire everyone to feel good and feel empowered to lead happier and healthier lives through dance.

Project Wave was an initiative Michelle created in June 2022 following her studies with Dance and Science guru Dr Peter Lovatt -author of The Dance Cure.

Project Wave focuses on developing transformative dance programmes for bespoke groups with a focus on inclusivity, diversity and equality.

In January 2024, Happy Me Dance were awarded the Broadening Access to Dance Award from UK National Dance Organisation ISTD Dance to set up a social Down’s Syndrome Dance Group in Langton Green for Clara Wheatley and her friends.

Baroness Monckton MBE, is Patron of Project Wave and mother to Domenica who also has Down’s Syndrome. When interviewed by the BBC at the House of Lords, Ms Monckton said the scheme had also helped to connect parents.

‘If parents can help other parents, it is a very good thing. It is lonely and parents

Local businesses and organisations who would like to donate to Project Wave should email michelle@happymedance. com Saturday morning Happy Me Kids Programmes and adult dance classes take place at The Wells Free School opposite Sankey’s Mount Ephraim, Central Tunbridge Wells and we teach adults too followed by coffee/lunch!

GET IN TOUCH: Website: www.happymedance.com Instagram, Facebook: @happymedance Email: michelle@happymedance.com Mobile: 07427 371396

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

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A tale of two charities In 2025 we are proud to support the children’s charity Demelza as it embarks on its Trail with a Tale. Read on to discover how you too can be involved with this project – either as a corporate or individual donor…

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hroughout this year, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is delighted to be the media partner of Demelza for their Trail with a Tail event this summer. The charity delivers extraordinary care to extraordinary children who are facing serious or life-limiting conditions, in the Tunbridge Wells area as well as the rest of Kent, East Sussex and South East London.

With two residential hospices in Kent and South East London, a community hub in East Sussex and community care teams providing services in the family home, Demelza’s nursing team also has a presence on the paediatric ward at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury, working with families of children with complex needs and identifying those who would benefit from a referral to Demelza.

SUPPORT GROUP: Taylor-Made Dreams' Suzi Mitchell with Demelza nurse Donna Mole, who was recently awarded the Queen’s Nursing title and cared for Suzi's son Taylor when he was ill

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This summer, Demelza’s Trail with a Tale will see beautifully illustrated large and smaller animal sculptures dotted around Tunbridge Wells to form a unique, family-friendly trail for all to enjoy

”

The charity offers support as unique as every family they work with; from symptom management, day care and short breaks, to practical and emotional support for families and siblings, creative therapies, memory making, end of life care and bereavement support. Support services are provided in family homes and online, allowing families the ability to access help where best suits them.

Families can also make use of fully accessible facilities across the hospice sites, including sensory rooms, soft play and a large hydro pool at Demelza’s Kent site.

This summer, Demelza’s Trail with a Tale will see beautifully illustrated large sculptures and smaller animal sculptures dotted all around Tunbridge Wells to form a unique, family-friendly outdoor trail for

all ages to enjoy. The larger sculptures will be designed and decorated by artists, while local schools and community groups have also been invited to get involved by signing up to design their own smaller sculptures.

Local children’s author Alex Brooks is on-board and will be creating individual stories for each sculpture on the trail, inspired by the charm and character of the animals as well as the children and families who will be enjoying them.

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is gifting one of the smaller sculptures to Taylor-Made Dreams, a local charity set up in memory of 15-year-old Taylor Mitchell. The charity makes dreams happen for children with life-limiting illnesses alongside support services including holistic therapy and counselling, a technology loan library and a sibling support service.

Taylor-Made Dreams and Demelza are closely linked, as Demelza nurse Donna Mole, who was recently awarded the Queen’s Nursing title, cared for Taylor.

Donna said: “I met Taylor-Made Dreams CEO Suzi recently and it’s been lovely to reconnect and see the fantastic work she’s

doing with her charity, enabling children with life-limiting conditions to fulfil their dreams.

“At Demelza, we believe every child or young person who has a serious or life-limiting condition should have the opportunity to build memories with their families and it’s great to link up with other charities with the same vision.

“We’re delighted Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine has chosen to gift one of our sculptures to Taylor-Made Dreams.”

When the trail has finished at the end of the summer, some of the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise vital funds for Demelza, enabling them to continue to provide extraordinary care for extraordinary children with serious or lifelimiting conditions, and their families.

Schools and community groups that get involved will have their smaller sculptures displayed in a high-profile location in the town to showcase their creativity. They will also be supported to fundraise for Demelza throughout the year.

To find out more about Trail with a Tale, visit www.trailwithatale.co.uk

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New year, new start 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, eases you into 2025

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s much as we all appreciate the limitations of a New Year resolution, however well meant, we simply can’t help but be pulled by the allure of the new. The promise of something better, more substantial, healthier or more joyful in our life that will make all the difference to our new year.

My suggestion for this new year is not to resolve any past misdemeanours - or correct a supposedly unsavoury behaviour - but to commit to starting something new. For the purposes of this article, I’m going to focus on the wideranging benefits of taking up yoga.

Yoga is a stunningly simple one-stop health trip that, when taught well and absorbed openly, has the potential to be life-changing.

I say this from personal experience, as yoga did just that for me 35 years ago when I started at the peachy young age of 18 and continues to do so now.

Let’s stop and think of the word transformation for a moment: changing one thing into another. With yoga, you get a winning three-for-one deal: You commit to attending one class and end up feeling better in body, mind, and spirit by the end of the hour.

How does it work, I hear you cry. Well, let me tell you…Yoga is uniquely positioned in its respect for and adherence to a holistic approach to health. In yoga, we weave body, mind, and soul practices that honour the delicate balance of these separate aspects of ourselves and bring

harmony to all three. The word health, after all, derives from the old Anglo-Saxon word for whole.

In yoga, we move our bodies to the tune and rhythm of the breath in a sequence designed to create a soothing, calming effect on our nervous as well as skeletal and myofascial systems. We are encouraged to build self-awareness of our bodies and understand better how we feel mentally and emotionally. In yoga, we are invited to ask ourselves the question, “How am I’, and to be blindingly honest in our answer. Yoga is a way to know yourself better, and I can think of no better resolution than that.

Let me encourage you to take up our Jump Start Yoga package and enjoy your first six yoga classes for just £10 each.

Visit us once or, ideally, twice weekly and start to feel the benefits immediately.

YOGA DEMYSTIFIED: Beginners Yoga – If you’re new to yoga, or returning after a pause, this one’s for you. Start as you mean to go on and feel fully supported along the way Flow Yoga – Flows’ signature class, deep, slow and poetic in its rhythm, guidance and inspiration Hatha Yoga – Translated at Sun & Moon, this traditional method focuses on harmony and balance with the support of a good prop or two

My suggestion for this “new year is not to resolve any past misdemeanours but to commit to starting something new

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Pregnancy Yoga – Hand holding you throughout your pregnancy and preparing you for labour Recovery Flow – A mid-week reset class based on clear anatomical instruction and aimed at easing physical aches and pains Rocket Yoga – A strong dynamic practice offering challenge and strength building; prepare to be turned upside down!

Vibrant Vinyasa – An upbeat, fun and energetic practice to kick start your weekend Yin Yang Yoga – A delicate balance of strength with flexibility, expect to flow through strong and restorative practices in equal measure GET IN TOUCH:

READER OFFER:

Jump Start your New Year with 6 one-hour yoga classes to try for just £60.

Visit www.flowtunbridgewells.com/book-class and buy our JUMP START package.

Lucy Parker, Senior Yoga Teacher, Counsellor & Coach Flow Tunbridge Wells www.flowtunbridgewells.com 07300 854328

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Dig for victory

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Engaging with the garden has really positive effects on both your mind and body, so get out there, start digging, and discover the gym on your back doorstep!

”

Tim Sykes of Gardenproud explains why gardening is so beneficial for both the body – and mind. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dig in…

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hat’s your New Year’s resolution? Is it to join the gym, be more sociable, give up alcohol, rekindle old friendships, learn how to play the piano, book a holiday or just get fit!

After all those Christmas dinners and parties I suspect a lot of us will be looking to shed a few pounds! But probably the best and most rewarding resolution could be to re-engage with the garden.

It’s a physical and mental work-out that most gyms would struggle to compete with, a place that rewards your labours with delightful vistas and experiences, which in turn reconnects you with nature and relieves all that tension and stress we all build up in the working week.

So what are you waiting for? January is an ideal time to start so read on to discover some of the things you could be focusing on as the winter months fade and we head towards spring…

Give the garden a good tidy: •

Clear any tree debris and leaves that have gathered over the late autumn and winter

•

Cut back, or better still dig up any ingress of brambles or nettles that have found their way into your garden from the neighbours, or the adjoining countryside

•

Sweep the terrace and pathways

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Spike the lawn with a fork to improve drainage, and brush lawn sand into the holes

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Cut back old leaves and dead growth from perennials and oriental grasses taking care not to damage any new shoots

•

Dig over and weed your borders (taking care not to disturb any

bulbs) ready for the new season and any new planting •

Clean up your pots and tools ready for Spring

•

Book the lawn mower in for a blade sharpen and service and check over any other powered tools

•

If you have a vegetable garden area consider covering the freshly dug over ground with polythene to help warm the soil ready for your new planting

•

Repair any fencing, gravel board edging, or worn pathways

Tackling just a few of these challenges should get the heart racing and muscles burning!

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Keeping active and engaged in the garden will boost your fitness and improve your wellbeing.

Experts suggest that gardening can be a great alternative to joining the gym and it will cost you nothing!

Did you know the more time you spend in the garden the fitter you get.

Here’s why: •

It works on all your major muscle groups and helps stimulate the heart

•

Combined with a calorie controlled diet, it can help you shed pounds

•

You’ll be amazed how much your step count increases. In just one day last August mine increased from a sedentary 3,000 to over 10,000 steps a day in our garden

•

Walking around your outside space is a key factor in the improved physical effects gardening offers as it keeps you on the move

•

Various gardening tasks help improve flexibility and build muscle strength. By stretching, bending, lifting, pulling and pushing you engage all the core muscle groups.

So next time you reach for the weeds or extend a rake remember you are stretching

•

Back in the greenhouse sowing seeds help improve concentration and your dexterity

•

Pushing the mower around, or a wheelbarrow full of soil will increase your heart rate and help build your stamina

Gardening also helps with your mental wellbeing. It allows you to focus on the task in hand, thus increasing mindfulness.

Here are some additional reasons why getting outside is good for your mind: •

It takes you away from the dayto-day work pattern and stress, working at computer screens, driving in traffic, and routine workrelated tasks

•

It has a positive effect on mood and evidence suggests that people who spend more time outdoors suffer less from chronic diseases and therefore live longer

•

It can be a sociable activity, with

tasks and garden projects shared with family and friends •

If you have a shared garden, or better still an allotment, this can be a way of making new friends

So you see engaging with the garden this year can have a really positive effect on both your mind and body, so why don’t you make a resolution get out there, start digging, and discover the gym on your back doorstep!

GET IN TOUCH: For further information about gardening or garden design contact Tim Sykes at Gardenproud on 07725 173820, or see Gardenproud at www.gardenproud.com

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Break Up & Divorce From Break Up To Breakthrough Explore how coaching and breathwork can help you navigate your new beginning

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make your 2025 a healthier year.

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EVENTS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

My Tunbridge Wells, Your Tunbridge Wells Clare Lush-Mansell from My Tunbridge Wells is your expert guide to all the fantastic events happening as we head into the start of 2025…

Clare Lush-Mansell

Photograph: Mollie Manning

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Just for laughs

Fancy a night of laughter, tears, and a bit of medical mayhem? Catch Adam Kay at Assembly Hall Theatre on 31st January, as he brings his record-breaking show Undoctored to Tunbridge Wells! After a sell-out West End run and a smashing Edinburgh Fringe, this is a show you won’t want to miss. There are just a few tickets left so head to www.assemblyhalltheatre. co.uk

Cheese please

Climb aboard The Kent Cheese Train for a relaxing and tasty afternoon ride through the stunning High Weald, courtesy of Spa Valley Railway, departing on 11th or 25th January. Savour a handpicked selection of local cheeses, chutney, and crackers from The Cheese Shop in Tunbridge Wells, all while travelling in vintage 1960s carriages. It’s a delightful way to experience Kent’s finest local produce on a charming train journey. For tickets and timings visit www. spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Staging a comeback

Join the hilarious cast at Southborough Community Panto this January as Jim Hawkins sets off on a swashbuckling adventure after receiving a mysterious map from the drunken pirate Billy Bones.

With treasure to be found, Silly Willy trying to save the parrot, and a mysterious one-

legged man, this community production will be at The Ridgemont Pavilion from 17th to 19th January. Book tickets here: www.artyfartyretreat.co.uk

Run for fun

Kickstart your weekend and join the free, fun, and welcoming weekly 5k community event. Whether you walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate, be part of the Tunbridge Wells Park Run every Saturday at 9am in Dunorlan Park. See www. parkrun.org.uk for more info

Movie magic

We love catching a film at Trinity Theatre because, firstly they have a fabulous bar that’s perfect and cosy in winter, and secondly, there are some fantastic restaurants nearby for a pre or postshow meal. So grab your friends or loved one and enjoy Blitz on 23rd January or Gladiator II on 29th January for a fun and budget friendly night out. www. trinitytheatre.net

Celtic charm

Mark the legacy of Robert Burns at The White Bear in Tunbridge Wells on Saturday, 25th January. This unique event includes a three-course meal, whiskey tasting, and the iconic Address to the Haggis, all within a warm and inviting setting. Be sure to wear your kilts! More information at www.the-white-bear.co.uk

Hole in one

Have fun with the family at Bogeys Golf in Tunbridge Wells! With its challenging indoor 9-hole course and funky retro theme, it’s the perfect spot to test your golfing skills and enjoy a great time together. Why not pop on over to The Shuffle House afterwards and have a go on their shuffle boards too? Kids eat for free Tuesday to Friday (4 to 6pm) and all day Sunday (T&Cs apply).

Music maestros

Experience the magic of Coldplay like never before at the Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, on 6th February. World-class vocalists and an epic live band will perform the band’s biggest hits in a stunning candlelit setting.

Book online or by phone, to secure your spot for this unforgettable evening of live music.www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

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WORTH THE TRIP -

Spotlight on Hemstead Park:

Light fantastic

The annual Tunbridge Wells Lantern Parade returns on Saturday, 8th February at 5.30pm, starting outside Royal Victoria Place and culminating at Grosvenor and Hilbert Recreation Ground. This magical community event invites participants of all ages to light up the winter evening with handcrafted lanterns, creating a spectacular display of creativity and light.

Featuring live music, performers, and a warm, festive atmosphere, the parade is a highlight of the local calendar.

Brick by brick

The Tunbridge Wells Brick Festival returns on Sunday, 9th February at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, offering a day filled with speed building competitions, large-scale displays, traders, and activities for LEGO fans of all ages. Perfect for families, collectors, and builders, this celebration of all things LEGO is not to be missed!

Hemsted Park, Kent’s leading performing arts venue located at Benenden School, is hosting an exciting range of events this season, including: • Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club - Tribute to Oscar Peterson on 7th February 2025, 7PM at Centenary Hall, featuring two grand pianos, a world-class rhythm section, and a showcase of Peterson’s iconic style.

• International Women’s Day 2025: In Conversation with Davina McCall on 8th March at 5PM at Centenary Hall, where Davina shares insights on her career and work raising menopause awareness.

• Dad’s Army Radio Show on 29th May, 7.30PM at The Theatre. A fun stage production bringing the classic sitcom to life with two actors and over 25 characters.

• Thank You for the Music - The Ultimate Tribute to ABBA on 3rd May, 7.30PM at Centenary Hall, celebrating ABBA’s greatest hits with stunning harmonies and dazzling performances.

Celebrate Valentine's Day with a magical romantic concert in Royal Tunbridge Wells raising money for the King Charles the Martyr Church ‘Hall for All’ project Heading into 2025 is an exciting time for us as we build on Essence’s success over the last year Tickets are available in several pricing tiers, ranging from £20 to £29.50 depending on seating. VIP tickets, priced at £59.50, include front-row seats, a meet-and-greet with the soloists, and a complimentary glass of fizz. Special rates are available for children, students under 25, and seniors.

The beautiful setting of King Charles the Martyr Church, located on London Road in Royal Tunbridge Wells sets the backdrop for a magical evening for couples, friends, or anyone looking to celebrate Valentine's Day in a unique and meaningful way. All proceeds from ticket sales will support the Church Hall for All Appeal, ensuring the

preservation of this historic community space, and the Music in Action charity, which brings the transformative power of music to disadvantaged children.

James Mews, chairman of Music in Action said, “The charity is delighted to be partnering with the historic church of King Charles the Martyr in Royal Tunbridge Wells to contribute to the Church Hall appeal. The events will be extremely romantic and with the glow of candlelight it will be a lovely way to celebrate valentine’s day while raising money for such a good local cause.”

To reserve your seats for this unforgettable Valentine’s experience, visit www. musicjersey.com to purchase tickets for the performances.

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Go on a global adventure in 2025

Planning your travels for the year ahead can be overwhelming, but Simply Luxury Esacapes are here to make it effortless—and indulgent. Read on to discover their ultimate month-by-month curated guide to help you explore the world in style…

January - Caribbean

January in the Caribbean offers warm sunshine, vibrant local culture, and idyllic beaches. It’s the perfect escape from winter chills, with excellent diving spots and lively carnivals to enjoy.

Our Recommendation: As a postChristmas spa/health and wellness break, The BodyHoliday is a fantastic choice for those wanting to indulge but also be mindful about their health!

February - South Africa

February brings warm weather, ideal for exploring Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain, sipping world-class wines in Stellenbosch, or spotting the Big Five in lush, wildlife-filled reserves like Kruger National Park.

Our Recommendation: Discover all that South Africa has to offer with a tour from Cape Town, through the winelands, and finishing on safari in Kruger!

March - Vietnam

March is ideal for perfect weather across Vietnam. Cruise through Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters, immerse yourself in Hanoi’s culture, or enjoy lantern festivals in picturesque Hoi An. Our Recommendation: Vietnam is a place where you can relax on the beach in Hoi An (Four Seasons or Intercontinental are great) or tour this fantastic country from north to south.

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F

rom sun-drenched beaches and hidden cultural gems, to iconic cities and breathtaking natural wonders, Simply Luxury Escape’s travel recommendations pair the perfect destination with the ideal time to visit…

From sun-drenched beaches and hidden cultural gems, to iconic cities and breathtaking natural wonders Simply Luxury Escapes offers something for everyone

“ April - Japan

April’s cherry blossoms create dreamy landscapes across Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo. Join locals in hanami picnics under pink canopies, explore serene temples,

and savour Japan’s seasonal delicacies like sakura mochi.

Our Recommendation: Japan is amazing in April as the cherry blossoms bloom.

Make sure to also visit Tokyo, and for history lovers, Hiroshima is truly worthwhile.

May - Cyprus

May is perfect for warm, sunny days in Cyprus. Stroll through ancient ruins in Paphos, enjoy coastal hikes in Akamas, or relax on golden beaches before peak summer crowds arrive.

Our Recommendation: The Elysium is a great family-friendly hotel, but for those wanting something modern and new, Cap St Georges could be the one for you.

June - Tanzania

June kicks off the Great Migration in Serengeti. Pair thrilling safaris with cultural visits to Maasai villages or unwind on Zanzibar’s white sands after spotting wildlife in the savannahs.

Our Recommendation: A visit to Tanzania always starts with a night in Arusha before heading out to Lake Manyara, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro—all three are truly breathtaking.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

July - Greece

July offers crystal-clear waters and long sunny days. Sail between Greek islands, explore ancient ruins in Athens, or indulge in authentic Mediterranean cuisine in charming seaside villages.

Our Recommendation: IKOS & SANI are two of the most popular hotels, but for great value, try Eagles Palace or Daios Cove for an exceptional stay at lower prices!

holiday in Italy is always a great way to see more than one place. Start in Naples, then head to the Amalfi Coast for cliff-top views.

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LUX Belle Mare is set on one of the best beaches and has brilliant family facilities.

For couples, The Residence provides great value at a 5-star standard.

September - USA – California

September boasts mild weather for California adventures. Visit Napa Valley for wine harvests, marvel at towering redwoods, and enjoy coastal views along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.

Our Recommendation: California has it all. A road trip through San Francisco, LA, and Las Vegas is a must. Add Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and the Grand Canyon for unforgettable sights.

October - Canary Islands

August - Italy

August showcases Italy’s vibrant summer energy. Admire colourful Positano, enjoy boat trips to Capri, or savour gelato in Rome while marvelling at iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican.

Our Recommendation: A multi-centre

October in the Canary Islands means warm sunshine and fewer crowds.

Explore volcanic landscapes, enjoy water sports, or simply relax by the pool at world-class resorts.

Our Recommendation: The Royal River Hotel is a unique, adults-only boutique find in the Canary Islands. This is a true 5-star hotel in Tenerife.

November - Mauritius

November brings blissful tropical weather to Mauritius. Snorkel in coral reefs, hike lush mountain trails, or immerse yourself in Creole culture with local food and lively sega dancing.

Our Recommendation: For families,

December - Maldives

December in the Maldives offers calm seas and sunny skies. Dive into turquoise lagoons, indulge in luxurious spa treatments, or enjoy serene sunsets from your overwater villa.

Our Recommendation: All-Inclusive in the Maldives makes life easier, and we love Heritance Aarah as a 5-star hotel. This is great for families and has an adults-only section.

Visit Simply Luxury Escapes 7 London Road, Tunbridge Wells or head to www.simplyluxuryescapes.co.uk 01892 576777

Curtains, soft furnishings, blinds and re-upholstery.

The Black & White Shop, Groombridge Appointments call 07957 811589

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Making more dreams come true

“

Taylor-Made Dreams and its fantastic team has had an impact on our family that no words will even begin to convey…

”

FUN TIMES Comedian Tim Vine put on a special stand-up routine for one of TMD's families

In its first column for 2025, our chosen charity Taylor-Made Dreams tells us why the new year means a whole host of new fundraising events so it can keep supporting its TMD Warriors and families…

T

he new year has arrived, and we can’t quite believe how fast 2024 flew by. We’d like to take a moment to thank everyone who joined us for Taylor-Made Dreams (TMD) events throughout 2024 and helped to support services for TMD families by volunteering and/or by generously donating.

If you missed any of our events, don’t worry, 2025 is going to be even more packed than last year. We are aiming to get even more people involved and in doing so they will be supporting more families in the local community.

This year, we have places for the Brighton Half Marathon - and what better time than the new year to challenge

yourself to go further for charity?

Last year we had 27 runners – including some people who had never run a half marathon before - all reach the finish and smash their fundraising targets. So, would you join team TMD for this amazing event on Sunday, 2nd March 2025?

But don’t just take our word for it… here the father of one of our TMD Warrior’s, Josh, who ha sadly now passed away, tells us what the impact of supporting our charity means: “In our lives – before, during and after our beautiful 12-year-old Josh’s illness and passing, Taylor-Made Dreams have given our whole family smiles, laughter and love – a haven from tears, pain and desperate sadness, enough to carry enduring positive memories for the rest of our lives,” explains Josh’s dad.

“To give support and create lifelong memories for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families sounds so simple – but then the best ideas are normally that simple. But to do it with such diligence and understanding made us realise that Taylor-Made Dreams is not just a charity – it is a way of looking at the world; a way of finding positivity when everything feels so negative. You helped our family do that at exactly the right time and continue to do so for so many families in the South East. Thank you,

Taylor-Made Dreams and your fantastic team, your impact on our family is more than words can convey.”

One of Josh’s wishes was to meet comedian Tim Vine, so the charity arranged a meet-and-greet and also planned for Tim to host a stand-up set in the family’s living room, where Tim even invited the postman in for the show!

Since then, Tim has become a wonderful supporter with our TMD events, even hosting our 2023 Dragonfly Ball. This year is no different as Tim is hosting, alongside long-time supporters Indigo Tax & Accountancy, a night as the Rock ‘n’ Roll king himself ... Plastic Elvis!

We have been to this show multiple times and we can’t recommend it enough.

Amazing music and support acts make for a truly unforgettable evening. So why not join us for a night of fundraising with Tim on Saturday, 15th of February?

To find tickets for Tim’s show, or to sign up to any of our events, like the Brighton Half, head to our website: www. taylormadedreams.org.uk/news and click on events.

Enable dreams for children with lifelimiting illnesses in 2025, when you join a Taylor-Made Dreams Event. We can’t wait to see you there.

For more information our website: www.taylormadedreams.org.uk

AFTER HOURS

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In it for the long run…

Ahead of taking part in the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon in February, local business entrepreneur Siobhan Stirling tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine how her return to running has benefited both her physical and mental health…

L

ocal Marketing and PR expert Siobhan Stirling will be celebrating the success of her second hip replacement by running the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon for West Kent Mind on February 23.

“Having suffered from depression myself in the past, I know how debilitating mental health problems can be, both for the individual and those who care about them,” says Siobhan, who is the Managing Director of the multi-award-winning Tunbridge Wells agency Sharp Minds communications.

“With 15% of UK adults this year saying their mental health is bad - or the worst it’s ever been - I thought it would be fantastic to raise some funds to help West Kent Mind in its invaluable work supporting people in our community.”

Siobhan goes on to explain that she suffered from depression a couple of times as a young adult, and then had long-term postnatal depression. “This was exacerbated by failing to deal properly with the emotional toll of a couple of miscarriages.”

“This continued almost up to early onset perimenopause, which came with its own problems,” Siobhan remembers.

“I decided to run the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon in 2014 after I realised I had become very unfit. It was a bold commitment for someone who had never run further than to catch a bus but running proved a salvation for my mental health.

“The time outside and the ability to clear my head properly brought me space and strength I had never managed to achieve before, so it’s fitting for me to dedicate my new challenge of taking up running again after two hip replacements for West Kent Mind.”

The mental health charity helps people in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & Malling and Sevenoaks to live well, stay well and thrive. Its services include low-cost 1-2-1 counselling, creative courses, needspecific support groups and an early intervention service for children and young people.

“The ongoing challenges with cost-ofliving, local authority cuts and long waiting

“

I saw doing the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon as an opportunity to give me a firm goal to get me back into my running shoes and raise much-needed funds for West Kent Mind

”

lists for NHS appointments mean our services are in demand more than ever, so every donation is vital in helping us to continue to offer mental health support to people in West Kent,” comments West Kent Mind’s Chief Executive Stevie Rice.

Catching the running bug when she embarked on her first Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon eleven years ago, Siobhan then completed the London Marathon, followed by The Beachy Head Marathon in 2015, and the Rome Marathon in 2016.

An ankle injury put her out of action for a while, but Siobhan was soon able to pick up again in time to celebrate her 50th birthday by achieving a personal best in

the New York Marathon in November 2017. However, a string of injuries followed by her first hip replacement - meant she has been unable to run for the last seven years.

“My first hip replacement made my operated leg 1.4cm longer than my other leg, which meant I wasn’t able to run because it caused problems in my back. I must be the only person to have prayed their second hip would go quickly to be able to try and correct some of the leg-length difference with a second hip replacement.

“It may sound strange, but I was really pleased when I recognised the tell-tale symptoms that indicated osteoarthritis due to hip dysplasia at the beginning of 2024. I saw an excellent surgeon and we discussed how he might offset my leg-length discrepancy. I’m over the moon that he managed to halve it, which has made all the difference to my quality of life.”

Yet despite having completed four marathons, Siobhan says her recent return to running has proved hard.

“When I started the Couch to 5K programme, I honestly didn't think I'd get through the first minute and I certainly never thought I'd be able to do anything more than a 5K - especially after being told by my first surgeon that I would never run again,” admits Siobhan.

“But I surprised myself by running four and a half miles in Spain in October, so that’s when I decided to commit to the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon. I saw it as an opportunity to give me a firm goal that would inspire me to get properly back into my running shoes and raise much-needed funds for West Kent Mind.”

Siobhan reveals that after seven years of no cardiovascular exercise at all, the training has proven to be really tough.

“I won't come anywhere near the times that I managed a decade ago,” confesses Siobhan. “But after never expecting to run again, I will be delighted if I simply manage to complete the course.

“I've had fantastic encouragement from my family – my three children, my son’s best friend and my partner – who've all got behind me and are currently training to take part in the race as well. Although I fear they're all going to get very cold waiting on the other side of the finishing line for me to shuffle in after them!”

You can donate to Siobhan’s fundraising for West Kent Mind on JustGiving.

AFTER HOURS

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025

Santa sleighs into town to help Nourish

T

he incredible team at RTW Round Table weaved their magic to support Nourish Community Foodbank in the run up to Christmas, with the help of Santa and his illuminated sleigh. The Santa Sleigh Food Collections visited even more streets in the town over an extended nine-day period from Saturday 7 – Sunday 15 December. Santa and his band of volunteers from RTW Round Table and Nourish Community Foodbank received a phenomenal nine tonnes of food and over £1,000 in donations to help those in food poverty.

Dawn Stanford, Operations Director from Nourish commented: “Thank you all so much, what an incredible response from our local community, this weighed in as a record food collection! Nourish is indebted to RTW Round Table not only for the sleigh collections, but also the incredible support they, and the Pantiles Rotary Club, gave unloading and sorting the donations in the warehouse each evening. We saw a big drop in food donations in 2024, and so this collection made a huge difference to our clients over Christmas, and will also help with the spike in demand we often see in January.”

Simon Addis from RTW Round Table

added: “It was our privilege to support Nourish, by helping Santa and his Sleigh on his food collections. We are always blown away by the reaction from local residents and it was great to see the smile on Children’s faces as Santa went by on his sleigh. This year the excitement grew thanks to a live tracker that let people know Santa was on his way. The guys at

the RTW Round Table love supporting local good causes, and we all really look forward to the Christmas collections. We are a group of local guys that meet up regularly to have fun but also about give back to the local community. We are always on the lookout for new members.

Please visit www.rtwrt.org to find out more.”

Here for children with serious or life-limiting conditions in Tunbridge Wells, across Kent, South East London and East Sussex.

To find out more please visit:

demelza.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1039651

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