TW Business Magazine November

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Welcome

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EDITOR Eileen Leahy DESIGN MANAGER Jason Stubbs PHOTOGRAPHY David Bartholomew ADVERTISING MANAGER Robin Singer COMMERCIAL PARTNER Coco Piesse Turner

elcome to your latest edition of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

As we head closer towards the end of the year we bring your biggest issue yet - and there’s certainly something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for the latest news in business, a review of the current economic landscape hello Budget - a fascinating feature or a culture fix you will find it all - and much, much more - in this 100plus page magazine.

But first let’s talk about our cover stars from Thackray Williams. The fact one of the leading local law firms has appointed not one, not two, but three of its senior staff as its new Managing Partners is a revolutionary move which goes to prove just how forward-thinking this firm is.

Turn´to page 32 to read all about their pioneering approach to doing business and discover why people are at the heart of all they do...

Elsewhere we have expert analysis on the first budget delivered by a Labour government since 2010. See our comprehensive commentary across a number of sectors and how it affects you starting on page 11.

We also´ have lots of exclusive interviews with some of our

local area’s most entrepreneurial people who are making a difference to how we communicate, dine, shop and socialise. I’m always bowled over by just how many incredible businesses are based here and this month is no exception. This month we shine a light on Fixio, TEK Group, Gary Valentine-Fuller and Inez Beauty Clinic and Academy - to name just a few.

And as usual you’ll find all you need to know about where to socialise, stroll, sip and savour in our After Hours lifestyle section which now boasts a great new gardening section too. Don’t say we don’t deliver!

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

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER George Percy EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore MANAGING DIRECTOR 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

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© 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 NOVEMBER 2024

NOV 2024

Contents

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11

Business news: What’s happening in our commercial community.

Autumn Statement: Our experts reveal their reactions to the Budget

16

County News: A look at what’s happening in the Kent business community

18

It’s Christmas: What’s happening where for the festive season in Tunbridge Wells

22

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

32

Law and Order: How Thackray Williams is pioneering a new managerial path

38

Award winning: Get ready for the inaugural TN card Business Awards

43

Team effort: Cricketing legend Graham Gooch hosts the Best of British event

44

Tech heads: We meet the fantastic IT support team at Fixio

46

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

48

Sitting pretty: TEK Group on its successful specialist seating business

46

Golden opportunity: Why whisky casks are the hot new investment

72

Savour the flavour: Don’t miss our special food and drink section

86

Business of theatre: How culture is shaping our economic landscape

94

Hit reset: Lucy Parker of Flow Tunbridge Wells helps with back pain advice

96

Skin deep: Discover the revolutionary Inez Clinc and Beauty Academy

98

Travel: Join our columnists from Simply Luxury Escapes on a global adventure

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38 84

72

44

experts

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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

Mark Hill

Sarah Raine

Dee Airey

Matthew Hill

Deborah Richards

Health & Fitness Specialist

Photographer & Visibility Strategist

Darren Austin Director, Synergee

Darryl Coombes

Consultant Facial Plastic Surgeon, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Sophie Forrest-Lavery

Antiques Expert

Founder, Private Medical Insurance Brokers

Neil Simmons

Technology Expert

TN Recruits

Clare Lush-Mansell

Elliot Doney

Founder, My Tunbridge Wells

Gavin Marsh

Founder, The Forrest Group

Jess Gibson

Becky Moran

Alex Green

Gillian Palmer

CEO, RTW Together

Founder, Maddisons Residential

Simon Howson-Green

Master Jeweller & Diamond Setter, Director Osmium Institute UK

Managing Director, The TN Card

Director, Colley Raine & Associates

CEO, TN Lettings

Founder, The Finance Hub

ManagingDirector,

Founder & Director Rodrigues & Ross

Siobhan Stirling

Managing Director, Sharp Minds

Jon Traquair Founder, Fixio

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Spiralling costs force bands to cut the number of their grassroots gigs

By Richard Moore Towns and cities across the UK are seeing a drastic reduction in live music because bands and singers are playing half as many gigs on tour as they did in the 1990s.

That's the warning coming from the Music Venue Trust (MVT) whose founder and CEO is Mark Davyd co-owner of The Forum in Tunbridge Wells. The Trust is an association of grassroots venues aimed at creating ‘the best music network in the world’.

"Not only are we seeing a crisis in economics, we're also seeing a crisis of access for live music and gigs" Since it opened in 1993 The Forum has gone from being a public toilet to a nationally acclaimed venue.

MVT said its members normally sell about 20 million tickets per year in total, but that the figure is expected to drop to 15 million this year.

There has been a 'dramatic decrease in the total amount of live music in our communities' and an 'increasingly small number of places are included on the touring circuit', it said.

Artists are playing 11 shows on an average tour on the grassroots circuit this year, compared with 22 in 1994, according to new figures from the MVT. Singer-songwriter Sam Duckworth, who

The Forum: making music since 1993 is now working with the Trust, said there is 'a spiralling crisis' for all but the biggest artists, venues and promoters.

"My first major tour was 54 dates.

There's no way I could do a 54-date tour now," he told the BBC. "What it really means is that fans in certain parts of the country have now either got to travel long distances or hope to be the one non-major city on a tour.

"So not only are we seeing a crisis in economics, we're also seeing a crisis of access. There are vast swathes of the country where your only option is to travel an hour and a half.

"But then you factor in that the cost of everything has gone up. The train tickets have gone up. The ticket prices have gone up. The cost of your life has gone up."

Costs have risen sharply for artists and venues as well as fans, he said.

"Maybe one of the industry secrets that we need to debunk is how much it costs

to put on a gig.

"If you have a band of people and everybody needs to get paid, you have a van that needs to be fuelled and everybody needs to stay in a hotel, you suddenly get to a point where it's costing thousands of pounds to put on a gig."

The venue and staff costs also needed to be covered.

"So everything's gone up, and if tours are running at a loss, the best way to stem those losses is to do less shows.

"People still want to do shows. It's still important to do shows. But the way a lot of artists are breaking even is by simply reducing the number of gigs they're doing."

Coldplay will donate 10% of the proceeds from next summer's Wembley and Hull shows to the Music Venue Trust.

The Trust is also calling for a £1 levy on all arena and stadium concerts to support grassroots venues such as The Forum.

Foodbank among those benefitting from the Community Support Fund Funding totalling £100,000 has been handed out by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to organisations providing support for those still feeling the after effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Community Support Fund was set up in 2023 in response to the impact of Covid and the cost-of-living crisis on the most vulnerable households in the borough.

A cross-party committee of councillors has agreed five grants of £20,000 each for Nourish Community Foodbank, HomeStart South West Kent, West Kent Mind, Tunbridge Wells Counselling Centre/YMCA

and church parish larders.

Astra Birch, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: "I am so pleased that we have been able to support five fantastic charities with the Community Support Fund grants.

"The awards are all going to organisations that do amazing work across the borough at a time when so many are still facing financial or other hardship."

To be eligible, groups need to be working towards specific projects, expanding existing services or have new needs that have been identified.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

World class puppetry puts the town centre stage and boosts community

By Richard Moore The sixth Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival which took place last month (October) has been hailed as ‘the gold standard in community focused events’.

The festival delivered more than 40 performances of world-class puppetry including three international artists, two UK premieres, one world premiere and an inaugural parade over the nine days.

Supported by Arts Council England, National Lottery Funding, Kent County Council, Kent Community Foundation and RTW Together BID, the festival was launched as a community celebration, ‘with diversity and inclusivity at its heart’.

Alison Bundy, Festival Co-Director Alison Bundy said: “We have been absolutely blown away by the response to this year’s event and would like to thank all the performers, staff, volunteers, grant funders and venues for their support.

“Such incredible talent and creativity being performed on our doorstep has really put Tunbridge Wells on the map.

“It has also had a huge impact on our local community, from the young people who took part in one of our free Rhino

Photograph: David Bartholomew

mask-making creative workshops in, and then joined in the parade wearing them, to the emerging artists who astounded us with their talents. We have loved watching the impact the festival has had on people.”

The parade itself was a first for Tunbridge Wells with more than 1,000 people watching or taking part, including

local residents who controlled their dancing flamingo puppets from their mobility scooters.

Co-Founder of Pickering Cancer DropIn Centre Polly Taylor took part on her mobility scooter as one of the Dancing Flamingo puppets.

"What a privilege to be part of this incredibly fun and accessible parade - I

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Photograph: Flic Roberts

felt like a teenager again. Thank you TW Puppetry Festival for including people with mobility impairments, those who are financially struggling and those who want to get experience in the puppetry world - this is the gold standard in community focused events."

Festival Co-Director Hayley Chester added: “This has been the best festival yet with such incredible talent. We were treated to the global talent of Montrealbased La Fille du Laitier, delivering the brilliant ‘Macbeth Muet’ - a wordless adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

“There was also the memorable ‘Improbable Sessions’, with award-winning theatre company, Improbable delivering

Hayley Chester(L) and Alison Bundy (R)

TWBC awarded eco energy grant

Photograph: David Bartholomew a bespoke night of part-gig, part-show, part-performance luring in local residents, Jeremy Kimmel and Ann Molyneux, to help with the improvisation.

“The feedback from audiences about their experience of the talks, Q&As and performances speaks volumes about how puppetry, in all its forms, can entrance and captivate young and old alike.

“We are already looking forward to bringing the festival back to Tunbridge Wells in 2026.”

To leave feedback about the event or make a donation to support the charity in covering their costs this year visit www.twpuppetryfestival.org

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has been awarded £55,800 from the Government’s Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund. The fund provides grants for eligible public sector organisations to engage specialist and expert advice and skills needed to create robust heat decarbonisation plans to prepare for heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency works.

The Council applied for the grant for its largest asset, Royal Victoria Place shopping centre in Royal Tunbridge Wells. Since acquiring the centre in 2023 the Council has been exploring opportunities to support its ambition to achieve net zero for Council operations by 2030.

The grant will be used to develop a detailed specialist heat decarbonisation plan for RVP. The plan will demonstrate how the Council can reduce emissions in the centre by moving away from fossil fuels and moving towards renewable heat sources and improved energy efficiency.

The grant comes from phase 5 of the Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund which PMS will provide up to £16 million of grant 3155 funding for the financial year 2024 to 2025.

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Calverley Grounds cafe needs business sponsor to avoid having to close

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Protection from employer insolvency in construction

By David Brown, Partner, Construction at CooperBurnett LLP

By Richard Moore A popular community cafe in Tunbridge Wells is looking for a business sponsor in a race against time to keep its doors open.

Bad weather has hit trade at The Inside that opened in 2018 and can be found in the former bowls pavilion alongside the town centre Calverley Adventure Playground.

The cafe is a favourite with local families and attracts hundreds of children to its various events.

At Easter it becomes a giant rabbit warren, at Halloween it takes on a Haunted House Persona and at Christmas the building turns itself into a gingerbread house.

“It would be such a shame if we have to close,” said mother of two and ‘owner’ Laura Parker who draws no wages from the business and employs teenagers at £8.50 an hour.

“We have always been passionate about the community and place this at the heart of our existence.”

The cafe, which is owned by the borough council, has debts amounting to £6,000.

“We need a sponsor to come give us a fresh start and for the £6,000 investment they would ‘own’ The Inside for 2025” “The council has been absolutely amazing in trying to help us and have given us six months to pay the debt. If we do not meet that deadline then The Inside will shut. It would be missed by so many people.

“In the winter we have hand warmers for adults and gloves for the little ones and in summer we hand out sun cream and handmade vintage mats for the playground slides.”

Laura added: “Our vision is clear and our presence much loved and we have battled through the most difficult times. The last five years has seen the closure of many independent cafes and businesses in Tunbridge Wells not able to survive the storm of the pandemic, the financial crisis and then the British weather.

But we have, so far, and we have created a stunning community around the cafe. I really don’t want to lose that.

“We need a sponsor to come aboard to give us a fresh start and for the £6,000 investment they would ‘own’ The Inside for 2025.”

This would include an external banner of support, branding on all cafe material, exposure on social media plus opportunities to stage events such as talks, classes or flash sales and more.

For more information email laura@the-inside.co.uk

The collapse of ISG recently – the sixth largest construction firm in the UK by turnover - is the highest profile construction insolvency since Carillion six years ago and there will be a knock-on effect on smaller companies in the supply chain. The firm was involved in 69 Government contracts and there may now be a slowing down in existing prison and education projects. ISG was working reportedly on around 2% profit margins and sub-contracted most of its work.

There have been a number of insolvencies in the South East over the last 18 months, including East Sussex-based Westridge Construction Ltd. It reportedly had numerous trading difficulties, including supply chain insolvencies and higher supplier and sub-contractor costs resulting from inflation. The construction industry saw more companies become insolvent than any other sector last year with 4,371 building firms collapsing in England and Wales.

Contractors and sub-contractors can protect their position against employer insolvency with contract provisions - which can include an escrow account, weighted stage payments, advanced payment, a project bank account and direct payment by a funder. Retention bond or retention trust account could be negotiated and specific clauses allowing termination on insolvency. The statutory right (and usually contractual right) to give notice of intention to suspend performance in the event of non-payment should be borne in mind.

Contractual clauses giving the contractor the right to suspend performance and/or terminate the contract upon the employer entering insolvency will be subject to the amendments to the Insolvency Act 1986 introduced by the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020.

During the course of the contract, it is important for contractors and sub-contractors to monitor the employer’s behaviour for signs of impending insolvency, to invoice regularly and completely, comply strictly with the Building Contract provisions and consider starting adjudication before the employer goes insolvent. Warning signs, such as rumours about the employer’s financial position, repeatedly late payment to the contractor/contractors on other projects, unexplained or unexpected omissions from the project, late filing of accounts or annual returns at Companies House and unsatisfied judgments should all be causes for concern.

If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact David Brown on email: DCB@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.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

AUTUMN STATEMENT

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Breaking down the budget to reveal what’s really happening behind all those headlines Labour’s first budget since 2010 - delivered on October 30 by Chancellor Rachel Reeves - announced tax rises worth £40billion to fund the NHS and other public services. But what’s the reality? How does it impact you? We asked some of our Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine experts from across the various sectors to share their thoughts…

THE EMPLOYMENT MARKET: Sophie ForrestLavery of The Forrest Group ‘Financial planning sessions may remind workers of value of staying long-term’ “From April 2025, employers NI will increase by 1.2% to 15%, alongside a threshold reduction from £9,100 to £5,000, so employers could face higher contributions. For business owners, this could mean you will need to review salary structures and potentially prepare for additional employment costs.

To ease the strain of this for smaller businesses, the employment allowance will rise from £5,000 to £10,500 per year.

From April 2025, the National Living Wage will increase by 6.7%, reaching £12.21 per hour. This translates to an additional £1,400 annually for a full-time employee. This change is set to boost employee morale and retention, but it may also mean adjusting your payroll budget, particularly if you have a large number of workers in this pay bracket.

The removal of Inheritance Tax (IHT) protection on pensions may shift how employees approach their retirement plans, potentially impacting your retention strategies for older workers. It is advisable to consider financial planning sessions as a way to remind workers of the value of staying in the business long-term.

The extension of government-funded nursery care to children as young as nine months is a significant benefit for working parents. Employers could align their workplace policies to support this by extending parental leave and flexible work options. This benefit will help to reduce employee stress and encourage employee loyalty.” www.theforrestgroup.co.uk

THE RECRUITMENT SECTOR: Neil Simmons of TN Recruits ‘Employers will need to pay a salary of at least £23,809.50 to employees over age of 23’

“At TN Recruits, we are committed to helping our clients navigate the evolving recruitment landscape shaped by the autumn statement.

Public sector training initiatives, with increased funding for education, healthcare, and skills development, create significant hiring opportunities.

Our expertise positions us to be a vital partner in sourcing talent for essential public sector roles, helping bridge workforce gaps and strengthen community-focused industries.

The reduction in welfare spending, aimed at reintroducing long-term benefit recipients to the workforce, broadens the talent pool. We see this as an opportunity to match skilled candidates with fulfilling employment, driving both personal and professional growth.

Green initiatives and sustainability investments bring an expanded need for skilled professionals in renewable energy and sustainable practices. TN Recruits is committed to supporting the green transition by connecting clients with top talent dedicated to environmental impact and innovation.

Finally, with the National Living Wage increasing from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour, companies will be advised to ensure their salaries are legal. Based on a 37.5hour week, employers will need to pay a salary of at least £23,809.50 to employees over the age of 23.” www.tnrecruits.com

THE FINANCE WORLD: Kieron Launder of CEO Growthdeck ‘Capital Gains Tax increases were less than had been feared’ “The budget was good for Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) investors but more mixed for EIS entrepreneurs.

The recognition of the economic value of the EIS scheme ensured that the continuation of the scheme was re-affirmed to 2035 along with all the important tax breaks ensuring that EISs for investors remain one of the very few investments where post tax returns are greater than pre-tax returns. Many of our clients have intimated they will be doing more EIS investments especially as Pensions cannot be transferred to future generations tax

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free anymore (now attracting the full 40% IHT rate, above thresholds).

Wealth creator (employers) and inter generational wealth transfers were the big targets: while the much heralded Capital Gains Tax increases were less than had been feared significant changes were made to the IHT catchment with Transferable Pensions, Agricultural Property and Business Property falling inside estates albeit with tax rate discounts above a combined threshold for the latter two.

With the ultimate goal of investing and maintaining wealth focused on net (post tax) returns and real (not nominal) growth there are fewer and fewer places to invest for the longer term. Private equity investment have implementation complexity but significant IHT tax advantages over public equity, especially with the removal of pension wrapped exemptions, while EIS eligible private equity investments have the huge advantage of being one of the very few investments where the post tax investment returns are greater than the pre-tax returns. EIS eligible private equity investments should receive far greater consideration in this new post Election anti-wealth Labour landscape.”

THE PROPERTY MARKET: Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential ‘Buyers and sellers given room to plan with some predicatability - it could have been much worse’ “This latest budget appears to have done little to move the dial in property, and the jury will be out for a few years to see if the new government will be able to make good on its promise of planning reforms and its new homes building programme, and how the harsh measure of the increased stamp duty on second homes, now sitting at 5%, combined with their continued scrutiny on Capital Gains Tax, will affect the appetite of landlords to enter or leave the private rental sector.

The biggest impact of the latest budget will have been to remove much of the uncertainty of the past few months for many would-be movers who have been hanging on to see what might happen. The budget has given buyers and sellers room to plan with some predictability. As budgets go, it could have been much worse for the property market.” www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT: Rupert Farrant of Durlings Chartered Surveyors & Property Consultants ‘Time is limited if you are thinking of selling and want to reduce CGT liability’ “I’ll start with the positives. The Chancellor has confirmed that the existing 40% relief on business rates for retail, hospitality and leisure industries will continue until 2025/2026 up to a cap of £110,000 per business. However, outside of these industry sectors landlords may need to absorb these costs, certainly for vacant premises or otherwise to stay competitive in a market where tenants are increasingly focused on affordability and flexibility.

Changes made to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) during the Autumn Budget 2024 include an increase in the lower and higher CGT rates to 18% and 24% respectively, whilst the adaptations made to CGT rates and reliefs, alongside other taxes have not been as great as some feared there is no delay in the impact of the new rates which take place immediately.

An increase in Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) and Investors’ Relief (IR) 14% from April 2025 and to 18% comes in to effect from April 2026, so If you are thinking of selling and wish to reduce your CGT liability, time is limited.” www.durlings.co.uk

INVESTMENTS: Gary Jeffries of Panaromic Wealth ‘Pension IHT mitigation suggestions include giving away lumps sums or additional income’

“Labour’s first Budget since March 2010 had speculation surrounding potential dramatic changes. Many actioned plans following media rumours taking their tax-free cash, whilst others sold or gifted assets to mitigate Capital Gains (CGT).

Lump sums survived but CGT increased.

Rachel Reeves’ headlines were increasing National Insurance, Capital Gains and Inheritance Tax. Depending upon personal circumstances some of the Budget’s effects will be minimal, but for others they will be significant.

Employers National Insurance affects mainly larger employers. From April it rises to 15% (an increase 1.2%).

Reduction Secondary Threshold will cost an extra £615 per employee. Increased allowances.

Capital Gains Tax was increased lower than anticipated but rose immediately by 10% to 18% (basic rate taxpayers) and 20% to 24% (Higher Rate). Discretionary and interest in possession trusts increased to 24% with no allowance for inflation.

First £1.0m for business owners Business Assets Disposal relief (BADR) increased from 10% to 14% 2025/26, 18% 2026/27. That means an extra £40,000 and £80,000 respectively. For investments, you could possibly use Investments Bonds.

Regarding inheritance tax, pensions funds since 2015 outside the Estate but from April 2027 inside. (Consultation planned). Changes for some tax at 67% and others 105% additional tax. Changes particularly affect unmarried couples. A possible couple of pension IHT mitigation suggestions include gifting away lump sums and/or additional income. You could

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

also nominate a charity as a beneficiary.

From April 2026 the relief on AIM shares/ portfolios will be only 50%. Unlimited Business and agricultural relief restricted now £1 million combined only 50% relief above (so effectively taxed at 20%). – This will be significant for farmers as it impacts partnerships and limited companies on death succession.” www.panoramicwealth.co.uk

THE LEGAL PERSPECTIVE: Sarah Strong, Partner, Private Client, CooperBurnett LLP ‘Concept of ‘domicile’ no longer used to determine liability of estate to IHT’ “On 30th October 2024, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, delivered her first Budget bringing in several tax changes, including the following changes to Inheritance Tax. The Inheritance Tax thresholds, the Nil Rate Band (of £325,000) and the Residence Nil Rate Band (of £175,000 for those leaving a home to direct descendants) were already frozen until 2028. This has been extended for a further two years until 2030.

Business Property Relief and Agricultural

Property Relief will be reformed from 6th April 2026. There will be relief from Inheritance Tax at 100% on the first £1 million of combined assets, and 50% relief thereafter.

From 6th April 2027, unspent pension funds (including any death benefits payable from a pension) will be included in a person’s estate when calculating their Inheritance Tax liability. However, it is worth noting that this is subject to consultation.

The concept of ‘domicile’ will no longer be used to determine if an estate will be liable to Inheritance Tax. Instead, this will be replaced from the 6 April 2025 with the concept of ‘long term resident’ which has been defined as an individual who has been UK resident in 10 of the last 20 tax years. An individual who has been non-UK resident for 10 consecutive tax years will not be treated as a long-term resident. There will be a reducing period of exposure depending on how long an individual has been resident in the UK before leaving.” www.cooperburnett.com Thackray Williams’ Nick Gabay, Partner in the Corporate & Commercial team ‘Working people likely to feel impact indirectly through higher prices and less generous salary increases’ “The increase in Employer’s National

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AUTUMN STATEMENT

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Insurance Contributions will grab the headlines and could damage the government’s relationship with businesses.

Even though the government said it would not increase taxes on working people, it is working people who are likely to feel the impact indirectly through higher prices and less generous salary increases as businesses seek to pass on the additional tax burden.

The changes to the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) regime weren’t as punishing as many feared, with the main rate of CGT increasing from 20% to ‘only’ 24% (when some rumours swirled around a much higher increase).

The CGT rate for lifetime gains on disposals of business assets of up to £1m from 10% to 14% next year and 18% the following year will hit entrepreneurs, and many will argue it disincentivises new start-up businesses. But it still offers an advantageous rate compared to the disposal of non-business assets, so the Chancellor probably thinks she has struck the right balance.” www.thackraywilliams.com

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THE RENTAL SECTOR: Becky Moran of TN Lettings ‘Purchasing buy-to-let through a limited company means stamp duty remains at 3%’ The UK’s Autumn Budget has introduced some changes that will impact landlords and the broader property market in general. The good news is these were probably less draconian than many current landlords had predicted. That said, the importance to understand the adjustments coming into play and how they might influence the rental market, specifically for landlords and those investing in buy-to-let cannot be taken lightly.

One of the biggest impacts to future buy-to-let purchasers in the Autumn budget is the 2% increase on stamp duty on second homes and buy-to-let properties taking the rate to 5%. The higher rate will now apply to additional properties purchased for rental or as second homes, which means that landlords who are investing in new rental properties will have higher

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

upfront costs and need to look into the impact this makes to the financial feasibility of the purchase.

However, there is an alternative that might work for some landlords.

Purchasing buy-to-let properties through a limited company means that the stamp duty stays at the usual 3%, which allows landlords to avoid extra surcharges that are applied when buying privately but also allows them still to offset the mortgage interest against the income lowering the income tax payments. This is a benefit that private landlords can no longer claim to offset their tax liability.

No change to the property capital gains tax has allowed these landlords to rethink and re-introduce these properties to the rental market.” www.tnlettings.co.uk

ESTATE PLANNING: Amanda Redman Financial Planning ‘When it comes to estate planning there was little joy in the budget’ “When it comes to estate planning, there was little joy in the budget.

The freezing of Inheritance Tax (IHT) thresholds until 2030 is a hollow consolation in that they haven’t been lowered, but it will result in more estates being subject to the tax due to fiscal

drag (the impact of inflation reducing the real value of the tax thresholds).

The most notable change, however, is the inclusion of pensions in IHT from April 2027. This will require a substantial amount of pension planning over the next few years – if not a complete U-turn on a client’s income strategy through retirement - making it vital for people to seek financial advice.

Pension assets are now much more likely to be used before Individual Savings Accounts and Unit Trust investments, which hasn’t been the case for the last 10 years when the reverse was true.

This is a real body blow to people who have worked hard throughout their lives to build substantial pension investments.

However, with the right financial advice, there are always options.” www.amandaredmanfp.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

AUTUMN STATEMENT

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The Finance Hub shares insights from three of its expert partners on the impact of the budget Nathan Blackmore of Way Trustees ‘Navigating the Post-Budget Landscape with Lifetime Trust Planning’ The recent Budget marks a turning point for estate planning, with significant changes that demand attention from families and their advisers. Among the most impactful is the removal of Inheritance Tax (IHT) relief on pensions, a move that will reshape many families' financial strategies. Coupled with frozen tax thresholds, the number of households paying IHT is expected to more than double by 2030.

These changes emphasise the importance of lifetime trust planning.

Trusts offer a reliable way to protect assets from rising IHT liabilities, but also ensure wealth is preserved for future generations. In this tightening fiscal environment, professional guidance in estate planning is more critical than ever to safeguard family legacies.

Martyn Bates of Alexander Bates Campbell ‘The jury is out - for now’ We knew additional tax revenues had to

come from somewhere, but businesses will be feeling the full weight of last month’s budget.

An extra £615pa per employee and 1.2% on the wage bill, in addition to a 7% rise in the minimum wage will be giving owners plenty to consider. One can only think prices will have to rise, risking: inflation, no reduction in interest rates and suppressed business growth.

For individuals, a CGT hike was inevitable, less obvious, including pensions within an estate from April 27.

That along with a 50% reduction of the AIM share benefit will focus the mind of those fearing that their family will pay too much IHT. Estate planning strategy will need to be changed.

Will the extra public expenditure promised counteract the above? The jury is out - for now!!

Lisa Sneddon of Twelve 94 Property Finance ‘Budget Blues for Borrowers’ Mortgage rate expectations have shifted after the budget, marking the end of anticipated cuts, and signalling a "higher for longer" trend. The Chancellor's

expansionary plans, which would require increased borrowing, would add inflationary pressure, prompting the financial markets to expect a slower decrease in the Base Rate.

In its appraisal of the budget measures, The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) forecasts Base Rates to be over 0.5% higher by the end of 2025, with mortgage rates averaging 0.3% higher than previously predicted. At the time of going to press attention turned to the Monetary Policy Committee's announcement on regarding rates. If they remain unchanged, mortgage rates may rise. As of November 4th, short-term fixed-rate mortgages are 0.5% to 0.10% pricier, while longer-term fixed rates have increased by 0.15% to 0.20%.

Those wanting a quick return to lower mortgage rates will be disappointed. The trajectory is still downwards, but it will take us longer to get there…

Tour Guide

by Darren Austin at Synergee

I recently visited Rome with my wife.

On the first day, we walked around the Roman Forum. It was spectacular, but it wasn’t until a couple of days later, when we went back with a professional guide, that we really understood what we were looking at. Our guide was superb. She explained the historical context and significance of each artifact, allowing us a much better understanding of the site.

She also answered all the questions that arose from our better understanding of what we were looking at. Based on this experience, we booked further guided tours for areas we wanted to explore during the rest of our holiday.

Back from holiday, it occurred to me that this is one of the benefits that Synergee can bring to business owners when interpreting their financial information.

We are your personal guide through the intricate landscape of your finances and have the expertise to decode the numbers and reveal the stories they tell.

Just as a guide at the Forum can explain

the historical context and significance of each artifact, we can provide insights into your financial statements, helping you understand where your money is coming from, where it’s going, and how effectively it’s being utilised.

Your Profit and Loss account becomes a narrative of how your business has performed, what goods/services are driving your profit and how these compare to your expectations. Your Balance Sheet is a snapshot of where you are now, every line item telling a story (for example, I need to reduce stock and improve debt collection). Your Key Performance Indicators dig down into the main business drivers that keep you on track.

As your guide, we can assist you with defining what metrics are key, setting targets in each area and having reporting systems that collate and deliver the information you need, when you need it, allowing you to make informed business decisions.

Almost as much fun as being in Rome.

Darren Austin is a director of Synergee Limited, a firm of Chartered Accountants & business advisers based in Tunbridge Wells.

If you have any questions you'd like to ask Darren he can be contacted on

01892 772960 www.synergee.org.uk

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COUNTY NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Investment in skills and jobs is going to be key to Kent’s future Andrew Metcalf, Vice-Chair of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director of Maxim, a leading regional PR, marketing and public affairs agency based in Tunbridge Wells, takes a look at what’s happening around the county this month and reveals why investment in skills will secure its economic viability

It’s not widely known that Kent has more than a century of heritage in aviation technology. Whether it’s the early pioneers who flew out of Eastchurch on the Isle of Sheppey, or the Short Brothers and their flying boats at Rochester, or Hiram Maxim at Dartford with his heavier than air flying machines, Kent’s aviation tradition continues to this day thanks to BAE Systems based at Rochester.

Major investment announced

And there’s good news from Rochester, where BAE Systems has announced it will invest £220 million to upgrade its facilities and add a further 300 jobs to its existing 1,600 strong workforce over the next five years. Rochester is home to its UK-based Electronic Systems business and work is due to start next year on a new state-ofthe-art factory of more than 32,000m2.

The Rochester site specialises in advanced aerospace technologies such as head-up displays, helmet-mounted displays, flight control computers and active control sticks for civil and military aircraft worldwide. The site is also part of the Electronic Systems global support service centre, providing repairs to commercial airliners every day of the year.

The new facility will combine manufacturing, engineering and office space – providing a refreshed, modern and flexible working environment. The investment also includes improvements to utilities, car parking and office refurbishments across the site.

“

The new facility will combine manufacturing, engineering and office space – providing a refreshed, modern and flexible working environment.

”

Tunnel offers vision for boosting construction skills

Although a decision hasn’t being taken on whether to proceed with the £9bn Lower Thames Crossing between Thurrock and Gravesend, it hasn’t stopped the team behind the project looking at

how to create a skills legacy.

A partnership designed to help overcome training and employment barriers has been forged between Highways England, the tunnel’s champions, and Maidstone-based Gallagher Group, one of the South East’s premier aggregates, groundworks, civil engineering and property development companies to create the Lower Thames Crossing Skills Hub pilot. They are also joined by Flannery Plant Hire, a leader in UK plant supply and skills bootcamp training.

Launched at Gallagher’s Hermitage Quarry, the Skills Hub was officially opened by Lord David Blunkett, Skills Advisor for the Lower Thames Crossing. It is providing work-based training courses for participants that include men and women on day release from Kent-based prisons and local people already in the construction workforce seeking higher skilled jobs.

It’s no secret there is a national shortage of skills across the country which poses a significant challenge to economic growth.

The team behind the pilot believe it will break down barriers to opportunity by tackling skills shortages today, and create a pathway to a high-skills economy, and support the area’s construction industry.

The service seeks to break down employment barriers for local people including prison leavers, long-term unemployed, and women returners by offering free training at an affordable rate for businesses.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU IS IMPORTANT TO US At NFU Mutual we can look after you, your family and your business.

We offer insurance products including: • Business • Home • Car • Directors and Officers • Commercial Vehicle • Cyber

• Income Protection • Investments • Pensions

For more information, contact NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells or speak to us 01892 337488 | 55 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1XU

P G Bowring & S Joubert is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982).

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Christmas comes to Tunbridge Wells…

With the festive season being officially declared open for 2024 courtesy of Joy to the Wells big Christmas switchon happening on November 14, plus a Strictly-themed shopping extravaganza, and the SKATE ice rink opening, Clare Lush-Mansell from My Tunbridge Wells picks some of her favourite family-friendly events to enjoy…

Seasonal splendour

The Joy to the Wells Christmas Kick Off starts the ‘official’ festive season on Thursday, 14th November, from 4:30-7:00pm. The ‘Big Lights Switch On’ includes a brand-new display over the Opera House. Santa will lead a parade from the Opera House to the old High Street, accompanied by snow and festive songs, while elves hand out free chocolate coins and raffle tickets. The evening will conclude with an eight-minute firework display from Christ Church.

Shopping, singing and Strictly

On Saturday, 16th November at 5pm, Royal Victoria Place will be hosting a magical Christmas event featuring Strictly Come Dancing star Ore Oduba, who will join Santa to switch on the Christmas lights and continue the holiday celebrations! The event features Once Upon a Wish shows, The Absolute Gospel Choir, and The Rock Choir. Santa’s Grotto will be open from 10am-3pm. Enjoy extended shopping hours until 7pm.

“

Christmas officially starts with the Joy to the Wells extravaganza

Ice, ice baby

”

SKATE Tunbridge Wells returns to Calverley Grounds with a magical ice rink from 29th November to 5th January.

Experience the thrill of skating under the lights, perfect for all skill levels. Join Relaxed Skating Sessions on Fridays at 1pm for a calm environment without music or flashing lights. Enjoy a café and bar, Bavarian curling, family ice skating and, of course, rides on the Christmas Wheel.

A winter’s tale

Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star is making its debut at the brand new Little Vic Theatre at Royal Victoria Place from 4th to 29th December. Join Fox attempting to plan the ultimate Christmas party, but struggling to find the perfect decorations. Everything changes when they spot a beautiful golden star atop a Christmas tree…You can read more about it in our special feature on page 86.

Out of this world

Trinity Theatre has plenty going on this Christmas. As well as its Sleeping Beauty panto production – which runs from December 14 to January 5 – it also has The Aliens Who Saved Christmas running from December 17-27 and The Wizard of Oz which will be staged the theatre’s youth group. The show runs from November 29 to December 1.

For more info on what’s on where see www.rtwtogether.com

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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Building with your business Commercial Property & Development Leasehold Enfranchisement | Planning

www.cooperburnett.com | 01892 515022

FEATURE

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“Our decade of success is thanks to our people” Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine columnist Neil Simmons celebrates his recruitment business’s tenth anniversary and reveals the secrets to TN Recruits’ ongoing success.

O

n Tuesday 4th November 2014, I walked into my dining room, which was my makeshift office, in order to start TN Recruits. My wife Chloe assessed my attire: I was fully suited including a tie - well it was pre-Covid after all - and she asked me what I was doing. I responded saying that I had to feel like I was going to work. She quickly retorted saying: “Not the suit - them!” and pointed at my slippers, and so it began…

Being respectful of my restrictive convenance and my previous employer, who had been very good to me, my first calls were not to previous clients or candidates I’d worked with. In fact, the first vacancy I worked on was through a friend who worked in London who was looking for a CAD Technician, thankfully I filled it.

“

For me, our survival and growth could only have been possible with the amazing people past and present employed by TN Recruits

” The following week I was invited along to BNI Tunbridge Wells. I’d attended BNI meetings previously and enjoyed the format and opportunity to meet other like-minded businesspeople. I had huge concerns about the weekly commitment and the fact I had to attend a meeting at 6.30am. I’d not been to work at that time of the day since I did a milk round in my teens!

The first person I meet at BNI chastised me for not having business cards. I explained the business had only been going for a week, I guess others may have spun on their heels and walked out. However this did encourage me to take a business card from everyone I met and promise to send them an email afterwards which I followed through.

I had a response from Darren Austin

from Synergee Chartered Accountants, who asked if I recruited accountants which I did. I took on the vacancy on the Thursday and had filled it by the following Tuesday which convinced me BNI would work for my business. BNI continues to be an important part of my week and Darren is my accountant, trusted advisor and friend.

After six successful months, I had more vacancies than I could handle so I decided to take the plunge and recruit someone. I interviewed several people and Jared was the standout candidate who accepted an offer to join me. Jared was with me for five years and was vitally important to the early successes of TN Recruits with his dedication and desire to succeed.

We continued to grow and so moved to a bigger office. Around this time, I overheard a candidate interview and was immediately struck by the maturity and conviction in the person being interviewed and knew I wanted her on board. Ellie Snuggs (now Waterman), joined as my

Resourcer in November 2016 to support me with my key clients. It didn’t take long to recognise that along with Ellie’s hard work, commitment and loyalty, she always had my back. Eight years on, Ellie has progressed through the ranks and is now a fellow director, contributing significantly to the decision making and development of TN Recruits.

Over the years, the team has been so important to our sustained growth, and we were lucky to have excellent people approaching us. Melissa Staveley’s husband sent me her CV saying he believed she’d be good at recruitment she has now been an important part of the company for almost eight years. I was flattered when Helen Barham, a former manager of mine at the Courier, applied for a role as a Recruitment Consultant, I continue to be inspired by Helen’s influence and energy every single day, some seven years on.

Rachel Fisher, a candidate I had worked

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

with years before, wanted a more local role. Rachel is hugely respected by everyone in our team and has really put TN Recruits Accounts on the map as the ‘go to’ recruiter for accountants across the Southeast and has been with us almost five years.

Also enjoying her sixth year with us is Emma Moss. Emma joined as a generalist recruiter but with a huge passion for law.

One of our ideas to scale was to have a dedicated team for the legal sector, and in Emma we were able to do exactly this. Emma is an exceptional consultant and, with a tremendous desire to help her clients grow whilst being dedicated to helping the careers of her candidates develop. She has made TN Recruits Law a market-leading legal consultancy across Kent, Sussex and Surrey. Her own career has gone from strength to strength and her talent and achievements have been rewarded with a well-deserved place on the board with TN Recruits.

Jo Marsden-Strong was a brilliant find and keeps our clients and candidates more than happy in our generalist division. She has been with us for the past four years and is amazingly conscientious in her approach.

We have an outstanding operations team in Katie Byrom, Debbie Jenkinson and Sarah Bysouth who are the unsung heroes and keep us all sane. In James Clements, Will Delve-Thomson, Ben

“

We continue to be on the lookout for more superstars who want to be part of the TN Recruits journey and help us through the next decade and beyond…

Wright and Izzy Colman we have the upcoming superstars of the recruitment sector.

Our particular industry has evolved greatly over the past ten years with video technology and AI having a hugely positive impact to the way we work, and we must continue to embrace these developments.

But it’s not been all plain sailing as we have had our challenges over the past decade. Recruitment is a tough job, and our standards are high, not everyone makes the grade. Like everyone, Covid challenged us, but we got through and are stronger as a result.

According to the Office for National Statistics only about 40% of businesses survive past ten years. For me, our survival and growth could only have been possible with the amazing people past and present employed by TN Recruits.

So, what next? We have ideas for growth and, with internal interviews lined up as I am writing this, we continue to be on the lookout for more superstars who want to be part of the TN Recruits journey and work with our values which will help us through the next decade and beyond. www.tnrecruits.com

”

Putting you at the heart of what we do.

At Cripps, we care about how our advice supports what really matters to you.

Taking it personally from the outset, we’re one dedicated, integrated team.

By your side and backing your cause, we inform better decisions, manage risk and uncover new opportunities. Solving your problems and championing your ambitions, we work together to make a positive and lasting difference. cripps.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

New beginnings

L

ocal charity DAVSS recently hosted a special event for its new premises – and also launched its special Christmas appeal.

DAVSS was set up originally by three local women around a kitchen table 12 years ago. The idea was to determine if there was a need for a domestic abuse service. The project confirmed there was a need and so DAVSS was officially formed.

Those three pioneers went on to extend the service into Sevenoaks and Tonbridge & Malling districts.

The charity has grown and so has the number of staff and volunteers

needed to support victims of domestic abuse locally so DAVSS needed to find a new support hub.

They have now found one in Five Oak Green.

Joining them at the special event were Dr Gillian Fargher, High Sherriff of Kent and Cllr Nancy Warne, Mayor of Tunbridge Wells amongst many others.

The charity also took the opportunity to launch its Toy Appeal for the many children who will go without a gift this Christmas.

For more on the appeal visit www.davss.org.uk/toys-forchristmas-campaign/

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Your Trusted Solicitors in Tunbridge Wells

Kate Rayner Head of Family Law

Emma Howlett Head of Wills & Probate

Angie Crush Head of Employment Law

Neill Thomas Head of Dispute Resolution

Contact us today for a consultation 01892 337540 info@thomasmansfield.co.uk 65 The High Street, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1XX thomasmansfield.co.uk Specialist Solicitors - Tailored Services

SOCIAL SCENE

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Making Connections

A

t last month’s Make It Your Business event, businesswomen and entrepreneurs gathered to network and be inspired by a panel of four leading female business leaders from the Tunbridge Wells area.

Run and chaired by Siobhan Stirling, Managing Director of Sharp Minds Communications, October’s event, hosted at The Finance Hub, featured keynote speaker Jenny Kitchen, CEO of YoYo Design and founder of Amplifi, alongside panellists Tamara Roberts, CEO of Ridgeview Estate, Lynne Campbell, Director of Alexander Bates Campbell Ltd, and Suzi Mitchell, founder of Taylor-Made Dreams.

advising

Business Owners

0333 577 8780

“We had an impressive turnout and the energy was palpable, as it always is. Our panelists shared their career journeys with vulnerability and transparency that inspired and motivated everyone in the room,” said Siobhan.

The event showcased the power of shared experiences and mutual support for women in business. Guests left with renewed inspiration and practical insights to apply to their own entrepreneurial journeys.

Make It Your Business aims to encourage more women to start their own businesses, running seminars across the country to provide opportunities for women to meet and network with local female entrepreneurs.

Investment Planning

Tax Planning

Managing Business Risk

Profit Extraction

Cash Flow Management

Owner Retirement Planning

Aspects of Exit Planning

Employee Benefits

SJP Approved 20/06/2024

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

From Perk to Priority:

L

Why Employee Wellbeing is a Business Imperative

ast month, I had an amazing opportunity to conduct a presentation at the Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club to discuss a topic for around 150 members of Gatwick Diamond Business that is close to my heart, why investing in the health and wellbeing of employees isn’t just a “perk”; it’s a business imperative that can drive sustainable success.

There’s a wealth of data underscoring this, yet many companies still overlook the profound impact wellbeing has on employee morale, productivity, and overall organisational performance.

With a career spanning almost 30 years, I felt deeply energised sharing my experiences and passion with such a receptive audience. It’s moments like these that remind me how privileged I am to be in a position to positively influence people’s professional and personal lives, reinforcing my commitment to this journey.

If businesses are looking for a team building experience with a difference that will benefit the health and wellbeing of their workforce then please do get in touch.

Here’s to building a workplace culture where wellbeing truly thrives, paving the way for happier, healthier, and more engaged teams!

Revive Health Fitness

Specialised employee wellbeing courses. www.revivehealthfitness.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Recipe for success N

‘Transforming your Home or Business’

Tel: 07766 811465

Photos by Flic Roberts

ourish Community Foodbank welcomed over 90 guests to the Old Auction House on Monday 4 November for the inaugural Ready Steady Cook for Nourish event.

Working in a similar way to the hit TV show, lots of the town’s esteemed local chefs were pitched against each other in a fun cook-off in order to raise muchneeded funds for the foodbank, using ingredients found in a standard Nourish food parcel with the audience voting for their favourite dish using the charity’s brand apple as a spin off from the show's legendary green and red pepper cards.

Those taking part included Scott Goss from The Beacon, Robin Read of The Counter, Alex Boyd from Kumquat Restaurant, Steve Anderson from Sankey’s Old Fishmarket, TV chef Rosemary Shrager as well as the night’s wild card chef, Charlie Moore from Charlie’s Angels Kitchen.

The event’s comperes were Daniel Hatton, chef and owner of Hattons TW and The Deer Park Café and Bibi Roy, food critic and writer. After numerous rounds of cook-offs Charlie Moore of Charlie’s Angels Kitchen was crowned the culinary winner - not just for her amazing satay broccoli, bean cassoulet and fruit crumble, but also her commitment to reducing food waste.

“Nourish are so grateful to the incredible chefs and comperes who gave their time pro-bono to support the charity. The evening has raised funds to help purchase food this winter and, just as critically, we have raised awareness that the stigma around using a foodbank needs to stop,” said Simon Vincent, Chair of Trustees at Nourish. nourishcommunityfoodbank.org.uk

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Contact our Royal Tunbridge Wells office to arrange a complimentary introductory meeting with Louise Shaw.

Call 01892 739580 or email louise.shaw@brewin.co.uk brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Local heroes There were ten awards in total and the winners were: Charity of the Year Home-Start South West Kent Community Group of the Year Royal Tunbridge Wells parkrun Sportsperson/Team of the Year Harriet Court Young Volunteer of the Year Louise Traynor Volunteer of the Year Carolyn Belcham Young Sports Achiever of the Year Emily Bowen Good Neighbour Yvonne Keane Green Household Linda Hall Green Business Charlie's Angels Kitchens

Photography by: David Hodgkinson

O

n Monday November 4, the Assembly Hall theatre welcomed those local community groups and individuals nominated for the council's Love Where We Live Awards for 2024 for a gala celebration for all the finalists.

In attendance on the night were Chief Executive of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) William Benson, Leader of the Council Ben Chapelard and the awards' judges who included Anthony Whitehorn and Richard Fry (King Charles' School Old Boys' Association), Ian Manley (Comms & PR Director of Town & Country Housing), Duncan Matthews (Development Director at Thrive Living

by Retirement Villages) and Matthew Saunders (Regional Operations Director).

The evening was compered by Jane Fineman and organised by TWBC's Lizzie Goodwin who hailed this year's event as a huge success. Guests were treated to pre dinner drinks and canapes and also lots of sweet treats during the ceremony.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

FEATURE

29

Align your business with community values RTW Media Group is a local networking organisation for those working in advertising, PR, TV, radio and social and digital media. In its column for this month we hear from one of its members, Georgia Strivens, a Fractional Marketing Director and Interim CEO in the tech sector who has extenstive experience in global events, about how sponsoring local events can really help to boost your brand

S

ponsoring local events is a powerful way for businesses to enhance visibility while building meaningful connections within your community. It goes beyond marketing; it can support initiatives that improve well-being and strengthen community ties.

Yet sponsorship doesn't just mean money; donating time and skills can be equally valuable. By supporting charity runs, festivals, and fairs, businesses engage with audiences on a deeper level, reinforcing their brand's presence.

Dave Barnett, founder of Tunbridge Wells Events (www.tunbridgewellsevents.co.uk) has spent 15 years promoting what’s happening in and around Tunbridge Wells and in the process witnessing sponsorship's significant impact on businesses and the community. He highlights the fact that benefits extend beyond visibility.

“

Sponsorship strengthens ties to the community, enhancing loyalty among a selected audience

“

“Sponsorship strengthens ties to the community, enhancing loyalty among a selected audience.”

Local events, whether at borough, town, or street level, bring people together, creating a vibrant local economy and making the area a better place to live.

"Many events in Tunbridge Wells are run by volunteers or not-for-profits," Barnett observes. While some funding comes from sources like the Business Improvement District (BID), he stresses that "local businesses are crucial in ensuring events continue, especially as traditional funding sources diminish."

Visibility That Resonates

Sponsoring local events will likely offer

organic visibility, with your logo on banners, merchandise, and digital platforms, becoming part of the event experience. Whether sponsoring a festival or farmers' market, your brand becomes a memorable part of something your audience values.

Barnett notes that for sponsors he sees a strengthened tie to the community and increased visibility: “It’s not just about brand recognition; it’s about building loyalty. People remember businesses that support the events they care about.”

Building Community Engagement & Goodwill

Sponsorship aligns your business with community values. Events in Tunbridge Wells celebrate the town’s culture, allowing businesses to show their commitment to preserving that legacy. Rachel Smith, Director of Business Development and Marketing at Cripps shares that the firm has had the privilege of sponsoring several highprofile local events.

“These partnerships help us support the community whilst enhancing our brand’s visibility and reputation. Our brand’s purpose is to solve problems and champion ambitions for lasting impact. Supporting these initiatives gives us the opportunity to champion

local culture, sports, and other worthwhile causes."

Collaborative Partnerships

Sponsorships open doors to collaboration with other businesses and organisations. Networking at events can encourage long-term partnerships, benefitting both businesses and the community. Smith adds, “Consider how the sponsorship aligns with your purpose and values”. For example, one of Cripps’ values is ‘imagine’, so supporting initiatives like TEDxRoyalTunbridgeWells, which I help to organise, and Amplifi, co-founded by RTWMG member Jenny Kitchen, enables collaboration with innovative businesses to create a positive impact.

Ultimately, sponsoring local events can boost your brand while creating meaningful connections, benefiting your community. Authentic engagement is more impactful than mere visibility.

Approach sponsorships as partnerships to add value beyond your logo, considering their long-term potential over other marketing channels in your business strategy.

For more information on RTW Media Group visit www.rtwmg.com

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

In step...

W

alk Tonbridge Festival - supported for the four years since its launch by the Tunbridge Wells-based law firm, CooperBurnett LLP - has raised nearly £37,000 for charity.

Charities who benefited from this year’s event include Hospice in the Weald, Make Birth Better, Stocks Green Pre-School and the National Autistic Society. Close to £15,000 has been donated to the Tonbridge food and fuel bank, Sustain.

According to its organiser and founder, James Pavlou, it is a ‘celebration of walking, Tonbridge,

community and countryside’.

“I was delighted to have CooperBurnett supporting the Walk Tonbridge Festival for a fourth year running,” says James Pavlou. “It’s not all about the money though, what I also appreciate is how TeamCB steps up to help out in a very practical way by volunteering.”

James also thanked fellow supporters including Tonbridge Old Fire Station, Hilden Park Chartered Accountants, Tonbridge School, Absolute Creative Print, Fit Feet Podiatry and Mr Ames Tea, and ‘an army of friends, family and volunteers’.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Cyber Threats… tecwork are making a real impact for local businesses and organisations.

It seems that every day, a news item is released covering the latest organisation to fall foul of a cyber attack.

The truth is that, whilst many attacks are specifically targeted, many are not. Which means that all sizes and types of businesses and organisations are indiscriminately targeted.

Amazingly, only roughly 15% of organisations are aware of the UK Government’s cyber protection scheme, Cyber Essentials.

Cyber Essentials is a best practice benchmark scheme which helps organisations protect themselves, their staff, customers and suppliers. tecwork can help your organisation by assessing and auditing your whole tech set up and provide advice and guidance on how to reduce vulnerabilities. Using state of the art tools, like Guardz, we can identify what needs to be done and implement the changes for you.

We are offering all organisations a free report at The Tunbridge Wells Business Show on the 7th November at Salomons Centre in Tunbridge Wells. Send us your details and come and see us on our stand and we can discuss the findings of the report with you!

Hackers are Advancing, are you ?

Send details to helpme@tecwork.co.uk or call us on 01892 578666. www.tecwork.co.uk

From stage fright to spotlight – be a more confident presenter at work A lack of confidence or a poor slide deck (if you use one) can mean you fail to engage your audience or meet your objectives when presenting at work.

•

How to deal with difficult questions during the Q&A section

Tunbridge Wells-based Hendrix Training uses communication experts and professional actors to help individuals and teams of employees become more confident presenters.

•

PowerPoint clinic

The interactive coaching is ideal for companies of any size and covers:

Morgans Co-founder and creative director Lucy Morgans, a professional TV and theatre actor, says: “Our coaching suits anyone, from ambitious junior staff to senior managers who want help with public speaking. There is practical advice that ends with learners being able to deliver a more confident and engaging presentation.”

•

Preparation and understanding your audience. Who is in the room?

•

Are you in the right mindset to present?

•

Why are you doing the presentation?

•

What is your story and how do you make it engaging?

•

How to calm your nerves before and during a presentation

•

How to be aware of body language and the signals it sends out to your audience

•

How to use your voice effectively to ensure your messages land and you take the audience with you

Hendrix Training works with clients in the UK and internationally across the private, public and third sectors.

Lucy

To find out more, and to view some of Hendrix Training’s other soft skills courses, please visit www.hendrixtraining.com Email director Steve Hemsley steve@hendrixtraining.com or call him personally on 07816329970

FEATURE

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Revolution by evolution Thackray Williams is reinventing the rule book by appointing three new Managing Partners – in keeping with its ethos of putting people and innovation at the heart of everything it does.

Eileen Leahy meets the ambitious law firm’s dynamic senior management team to discover why they’re breaking with convention and how their complementary skill sets will benefit both clients and staff – and help the business deliver on its targets

“

The Thackray Williams board was founded in 2019. We all have different areas of expertise so our new Managing Partners, who will take over in 2025, have already had plenty of experience running things

”

our shoot. People are very much at the core of this successful firm, which was established in 2004 – whether they’re a client, visitor or team player.

I’m here to talk to Thackray Williams’ current Managing Partner Sean Sanders and board members Vikki Herbert, Anthony Macey and Emma Thompson - along with the firm’s Non-Exec board member and Chair Simon Slater - about the change in leadership when Sean steps down from his role in March 2025. Having been at the helm for nine years, Sean won’t be replaced by just one Managing Partner, but three when Vikki, Emma and Anthony take over. This, I discover during the course of our conversation, is extremely unusual; traditionally, there

LEGAL EAGLES: (l to r) Vikki Herbert, Simon Slater, Anthony Macey, Sean Sanders & Emma Thompson is only one person at the top of the pyramid. Thackray Williams however is clearly determined to pioneer a new way of doing business - for the good of all its people.

“We’re working on this transition over the next six months but we established the board in 2019,” Sean tells me. “Vikki, Emma and Anthony became more involved five years ago and during that time the firm has changed considerably.”

Earlier this year, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine spoke to Nick Gabay, Head of Corporate & Commercial at Thackray Williams about how the firm is on an exciting trajectory to continue accelerating its impressive year-on-year growth, delivered by breaking down traditional silos between the different disciplines to provide more holistic legal services for its private and growing commercial client base.

This new and unique senior management framework is an extension of the company’s commitment to being recognised as one of the most pioneering

Photography by David Bartholomew

‘L

aw firms don’t solve problems, people do’ is the strapline you’ll see on Thackray Williams’ website - and that philosophy is certainly evident from the moment you step foot inside its stylish Bromley HQ. Studded into the wall of the main reception area is a striking colourful 3D sign which reads ‘People Powered’, while in the uber-cool main office space, meeting rooms are named after numerous famous local residents such as David Bowie, Emma Raducanu and Charles Darwin. And then of course there are the staff at Thackray Williams who are all smiles and waves as our photographer David and I head to the boardroom for

and successful regional law firms.

When Sean began his tenure at Thackray Williams, which also has offices in Sevenoaks, London and West Wickham and a staff of 130, the business’s turnover was around £7 million. This year it’s likely to be around the £13 million mark.

But Sean is very keen to stress that he alone cannot be thanked for the firm’s success. It is by all accounts very much a team effort.

“I formed the Thackray Williams board in 2019 to help me run the firm. I asked my colleagues Vikki, Emma and Anthony to join me as they all have different areas of expertise, so over the past five years they have had experience of helping run things. Therefore, it made sense for them to take over.

“It’s not a very traditional move for a law firm to employ three Managing Partners - to the best of our knowledge, it’s unprecedented - but we like to do things differently here,” smiles Sean.

“All three of them have been here for around 20 years and so I knew they were

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“People are key to the firm’s ambitious growth plans, which is why they are at the heart of the decisions we make. When recruiting, we’re looking beyond skills and expertise, essentially for ambitious people to join us on our journey. ” Emma is enthusiastic that having this incredibly revolutionary democratic setup, where each board member has responsibility for certain areas of the firm, means the Managing Partners now have the opportunity to regularly reflect on where they are, where they want to be and by when - and what needs to be achieved to keep the strategic momentum required. “Just being able to sit back for the first time in a very long time and see what Sean has achieved during his tenure is phenomenal.”

When I ask Vikki, who has overall responsibility for Thackray Williams’ Real Estate departments, what she enjoys about being part of the senior leadership team, she reveals that having

33

Image by johnknightphotography.co.uk

the perfect people to take over. I have every confidence they’ll continue to do a great job.”

Vikki, Emma, Anthony and Simon are equally as full of praise for Sean when I ask them about their board responsibilities.

“Sean got us through Brexit and the pandemic,” comments Vikki, before Emma adds that Sean’s nine-year tenure has been nothing short of ‘phenomenal’.

The leading South-East law firm, which has 10 equity partners, boasts the prestigious LEXCEL Practice Management Standard, a quality mark that only 3% of solicitors in private practice have attained.

It is also listed in both the Legal 500 and Chambers Guide for 2025 and has its sights set on becoming one of the UK’s top 200 law firms after it posted recordhigh revenue of £12.2m for 2023/2024.

“The inception of the board was because our ambitions for the firm changed; we needed to be more ambitious in our

FEATURE

“

It’s not a very traditional move for a law firm to employ three Managing Partners but we like to do things differently here

”

decision making,” Emma explains.

“The formation of the board has allowed the firm to be more agile in its decision making and pivot where required. This has enabled us to focus on implementing our strategy, which has in turn led to our financial success.”

Emma, who heads up Thackray Williams’ commercial and employment teams in London, Bromley and Sevenoaks, reveals that what she personally likes about being part of the senior management team is seeing results: “I like knowing we’re in control of changing the direction of the firm and having responsibility in terms of leading it. My personal passion is having ambition for our people. So I lead the recruitment strategy and the business areas of the firm. It’s about supporting our lawyers to have fulfilling careers with us whilst maintaining a work-life balance.

the opportunity to develop her own professional skills and experience is great but that, once again, people are key.

“Being part of the board has given us the ability to see what we are good at and to develop those skills. We’ve been involved for five years so we are not just stepping in from day one. I am keen to make sure our brand awareness is on point and that our people are giving our clients the best possible service they can.”

Next I ask Anthony about his role overseeing the private wealth sector and taking responsibility for the firm’s financial management. He tells me that because he, Emma and Vikki have all worked at the firm for the past two decades this has been an added bonus to the way the trio operate: “When the board was formed that really enabled us to see that we had the same ambitions for the business and

to see where our strengths were. All this has helped us to make the difference the business needs.”

When it came to looking at the succession planning after Sean announced he would be stepping down, Anthony remarks that it seemed a natural evolution for the three of them to do it together, even though this meant breaking with the established legal industry norm.

“I think that really shows there is no ego between us. Instead, there is a collective ambition. We know where our strengths lie and we want to combine those. I think our aim for growth is now stronger than ever and when you look at what we want to achieve – not even taking our skill sets into account – it’s a job that no one person could do on their own. Where we want to go is something that not just one person could deliver anyway.

“We don’t want to be seen as a traditional law firm. A lot of what we have been doing is to be a modern law firm that embraces our people and to be the best business we can be. We have had

34

FEATURE

some really positive changes in the last 12-18 months and that’s rewarding as you can see that the decisions being made are making a difference and taking hold with other people in the business and why they are part of our journey. Everyone is working towards the same goal.”

Between the three of them Vikki points out that they represent the whole business: “Emma is on the commercial side, Anthony is private wealth and I am real estate and we still carry out our fee-earning work in those areas.

Coincidentally we also represent different locations: Emma is based in Bromley, Anthony is in London and I am in Sevenoaks.”

The trio are keen to point out that although they offer legal services, their roles are also very much about ensuring the firm runs as a successful business.

Emma says they are able to do this because there are three of them, which is a unique position they find themselves in, unlike a lot of senior management hierarchies.

“We all know each other very well and have healthy differences in perspectives on things, which is very helpful. And we’re very good at holding each other accountable and I think you can’t have those ambitious plans for growth unless you’re prepared to do that. Yes, that may mean engaging in some challenging conversations, but when you’ve got a responsibility for a certain part of the business, it does allow you to make sure that everything is driving in the right

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“

What’s going to make the difference in terms of fulfilling our ambition and defining our success over the next 5-10 years is people…

”

direction.”

Emma reveals that when the announcement of the new appointments was made, feedback from Thackray Williams staff was positive: “We have distinct responsibilities for each part of the business - meaning that everyone in the business feels represented at the most senior level of the firm.”

Anthony comments that a lot of what the trio have been doing is to embrace Thackray Williams’ people and trying to be the best in the business: “We want to help people achieve their ambitions.”

He then explains that having Non-Exec Chair Simon in the background for the past 18 months has been ‘invaluable’.

LEGAL DUTIES SEAN SANDERS (left) Sean Sanders became Managing Partner of Thackray Williams in January 2016, following a 27-year stint as a residential property specialist. As the former head of Thackray Williams’ Residential Property Department he was personally responsible for thousands of conveyancing transactions.

Sean is responsible for the strategic direction of the firm, ensuring its smooth operation and is also ultimately accountable for its continued success.

Although he steps down as Managing Partner in March 2025 he will still be working for the firm in his area of legal expertise.

Sean was a member of the Bromley Education and Business Partnership, an organisation which offers young people an introduction to the world of work. He is also a past President of Bromley and District Law Society.

SIMON SLATER In a 35-year career, Simon Slater has been involved in shaping some of the UK’s most successful professional service

businesses.

As marketing lead he created the global brand for quoted real estate advisory firm DTZ plc. DTZ and Cushman & Wakefield Inc. which later merged to become Cushman & Wakefield plc. He transformed the fortunes of Charles Russell, now Charles Russell Speechlys LLP, providing them with the platform for long-term growth, which they sustain to this day.

He was a key member of the leadership team which planned and executed the unique 7-way merger to create Eversheds LLP in 2000. Eversheds became the UK’s first national law firm.

He co-founded the interim management practice of First Counsel Limited, now Totum Partners.

He was Chief Executive Officer of Thomson Snell & Passmore LLP and

worked with Guinness World Records to verify the firm’s unique status as the world’s longest-established legal practice.

Most recently, Simon served as a NonExecutive Board Member with Cripps LLP, having previously negotiated, and executed the merger between Pemberton Greenish LLP and Cripps LLP.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

FEATURE

35

“His experience of having worked in bigger practises that have also grown from being much smaller is invaluable.

They have seen their ambitions fulfilled and that’s what we’re looking to do. We need to know what and where those markers are and that keeps us all very much focused.”

Reflecting on his role at the firm, Simon tells me there are ‘several strands’ to being a Non-Exec board member. “The first is to provide the board, the partners, and the firm, with a really clear sense of direction around its ambition. So I’ve been instrumental in helping my colleagues around this table formulate the strategy that sees us through to 2030.

And it’s a pretty simply stated strategy.

Law firms have a terrible tendency to

“

We all know each other very well and have got healthy differences in perspectives on things which is very helpful

” The Thackray Williams Pledge The firm will work to the following five-point pledge:

• Keep you informed with regular progress reports on or ahead of schedule • Reply to all letters, emails and telephone messages promptly • Work to the highest standards of our profession to include technical competence, confidentiality, integrity and courtesy • Adopt a clear and uncomplicated approach to explaining our fees so that there will be no unexpected changes • Be mindful of your personal and business goals in order to provide you with a value-added service

overcomplicate things if you let them. So there’s beauty in its simplicity.

“I’m also here to provide guidance regarding various issues they may face in terms of leading the firm. And finally I am here to constructively challenge and hold to account, but also act as a mentor.

So it’s a very supportive role, but with a laser focus on where we’re trying to get to - whilst embodying the general culture of the firm.”

And that, states Emma, is what Thackray Williams also pride themselves on: “It is our culture and our focus on people. And that’s a real challenge when you’re trying to achieve growth quickly.”

Simon’s ‘laser focus’ is also on growth and he reveals there is a medium-term plan and a longer-term one. “We aim to achieve revenues of £15 million by spring 2026/27 and £20 million by 2030.”

Anthony and the team have been exploring all of the areas where they can

improve performance.

“We’ve been looking at how you make things more efficient, but you realise that just normal organic growth is not going to achieve that. So it’s also about focused and strategic growth. We’ve been looking at the practice areas where we’re already strong so we will continue to maintain, develop and strengthen those. We’ve predominantly always been a private client-centric business covering any particular area of tax trusts and wills, and we have a very large residential property base as well.

“Our strategic and targeted growth plans now have a bias towards the corporate and commercial offering given the significant growth we’ve seen in these areas of the business,” adds Anthony.

“It’s the strategic recruitment that Emma’s pushing that is very important for us right now. That’s where we are really identifying where that growth will come

36

FEATURE

from well ahead of time,” Sean confirms.

Vikki says that as well as operating out of four office bases, the firm is also looking to attract more clients from across Kent – including Tunbridge Wells – although a new office in the town is not on the cards at the moment. What has proved to be enormously successful is the opening of the Sevenoaks office.

“If these guys had said to me six years ago, we’re going to open an office there I might have said ‘well that’s a very well-lawyered town already’. And yet they did and now six years on it’s generating 20% of the firm’s

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

revenue,” Simon notes. “With courage and ambition, you can do these things.”

Before I leave, I ask Sean how it feels now to be relinquishing the reins?

“It’s fine. I’m not leaving, I’m actually going to go back into the discipline that I qualified in, which is property, real estate and residential conveyancing. One of our partners is retiring from our West Wickham office so I’m going to help run that. I still want to add value to the firm and for me it’s going to feel like a new job!

And I’m always around if anyone needs some advice.

“I’ve got every confidence in Vikki, Emma and Anthony and I’m looking forward to witnessing their successes. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the rest of the board.

I was there on the day each one of them started so to see them grow into leaders of the firm is just fantastic.”

Anthony’s areas of responsibility include:

Emma’s areas of responsibility include:

www.thackraywilliams.com

CAREER CVs: VIKKI HERBERT

Vikki is an Equity Partner, Board Member and overall Head of Thackray Williams’ expanding Real Estate sector, which includes Commercial Property, Residential Conveyancing, New Build and Leasehold Enfranchisement.

Passionate about property, Vikki has been the driving force behind the Real Estate team for more than a decade, helping it secure rankings for Commercial Property in Legal 500 and Real Estate by Chambers.

Vikki’s areas of responsibility include: • Business development, including expanding the Leasehold team into one of the largest ‘specialist teams’ in the sector, outside of central London, and building and nurturing a professional network across Residential Conveyancing and New Build.

• Risk and compliance, to ensure peace of mind for clients, staff and the business.

• Fee-earning work within the Leasehold team providing support and advice to leaseholders, freeholders, intermediate landlords and agents to facilitate a cross section of residential lease related matters.

ANTHONY MACEY

An Equity Partner, Anthony heads Thackray Williams’ London, City office, as well as leading the firm’s Private Wealth sector, which incorporates the family law and private clients teams, both of which are ranked in the Legal 500.

He is STEP accredited (Society for Trust & Estate Practitioners), which is a worldwide, recognised professional body, that only admits the most experienced of practitioners in the field of Trusts and Estates. He has also been recognised in the Legal 500 as a named individual for the quality of his work and the advice he is able to give.

• Financial management of the firm, to facilitate continued growth and success.

• Business development of the Private Wealth sector, which recorded 38% year-on-year growth in Q2 2024 compared with the same period in 2023, with an increase in both the amount of work and the average value of individual matters.

• Fee-earning work within the Private Client team, concentrating on families and individuals in respect of their Wills, Estate Planning and the Administration of Estates.

EMMA THOMPSON

Emma is an Equity Partner and Head of the firms’ Employment team. She also leads the firms’ Commercial offering, being directly supported by Nick Gabay, Head of Corporate.

Emma is listed in Chambers for Employment Law.

• Recruitment: attracting, nurturing and retaining the highest calibre of lawyers aligned with Thackray Williams’ values and culture to ensure exceptional customer service with the best possible outcomes to fuel further growth.

• Business development: Emma has developed the education sector into a key specialism for Thackray Williams, both public and independent schools, and nurseries. She has expanded the Corporate and Commercial sector by overseeing a significant increase in the number of commercial clients.

She has also bolstered Thackray Williams’ London referral network, leading to new instructions from senior executives and high-net worth clients.

• Advising commercial and individual clients on employment issues, offering bespoke solutions and a strategic approach to avoiding costly Tribunal disputes.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

FEATURE

37

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Best in Business

With the very first Tunbridge Wells Business Awards taking place later this month we spoke to its organiser Jess Gibson of the TN card about why it’s so important to champion companies of all sizes in various sectors – and discover who has made the list of finalists…

T

he Tunbridge Wells Business Awards by the TN card takes place on November 26 and Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is proud to support the awards as its official press sponsor.

After weeks of consideration, with its judges reviewing entries from local businesses of all shapes and sizes, the decisions have been made for each category and winners will be announced at the festive awards ceremony which takes place at Trinity Theatre on November 26.

Nick Moore, who is Managing Director of JJL Media & Marketing Ltd, publisher of this magazine is on the independent judging panel along with Dawn Blee, CEO of Sevenoaks District Chamber of Commerce, Nick Bryant, Founder of Brilliant Businesses, Lynne Gadsden, Financial Adviser at Eight Wealth Management, and Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together.

Judges assessed each award entry with preliminary scoring before coming together as a panel at Trinity on October 17 to determine finalists and winners.

The panel was chaired by Jess Gibson, Founder and Managing Director of the TN card, and joined by Joseph Oates, Partner at CooperBurnett who are the awards’ headline sponsor.

Reflecting on how the first Tunbridge Wells Business Awards (TWBAs) have gone so far, Jess told the magazine that she was

‘thrilled’ with how this community-focused awards has been received.

“I am thrilled with the response to these inaugural awards and entries were received from businesses of all sizes and sectors, reflecting the breadth of the Tunbridge Wells business community.”

“

Running your own business is tough but passion and a strong belief in what you are doing will get you through

” “The TN card was created to support local, so the TWBAs have been deliberately accessible to small businesses and large companies alike, with everyone evaluated on the merits of their award submission regardless of size.“ “I am grateful to the judging panel for dedicating so much of their time to evaluating entries and ensuring the award results fairly reflect the diversity of our business community, and everyone who

contributes to our town and economy.

It is going to be a special evening as we celebrate our winners.”

Commenting on being involved with all the judging, Lynne Gadsden of Eight Wealth Management told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine that she was looking for the things that make a business successful.

“That could be a great idea, something a little different, profitability (well I am a financial adviser!), looking after your team, being part of the community and most importantly passion!” states Lynne.

“I know only too well that running your own business is tough and passion and a strong belief in what you are doing will get you through.”

Supporting the awards are CooperBurnett (headline sponsor), Absolute Creative Print (print sponsor), Inkerman London (trophy sponsor), Evelyn Partners (gift sponsor), G.M. Valentine Family Funeral Directors (podcast sponsor) and RTW Together (Film sponsor).

The Tunbridge Wells Business Awards take place at Trinity Theatre on the evening of Tuesday 26th November, with each guest ticket including a donation to Tunbridge Wells non-profits amplifi, West Kent Mind and Trinity. Winners will feature in the December issue of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

Limited tickets are available at tunbridgewellsbusinessawards.uk

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

f inalists New Business of The Year

Hair & Beauty Business Award Sponsored by The Gallery

Sponsored by NetVector IT Services

Amora Care Chomp Elmhurst Education The Buzz Lounge – 7 the Pantiles Kidsbury Role Play Villages Leaf & Bean OsteoStrong Tunbridge Wells The P2 Collective

HiTech Aesthetics Inez Beauty Clinic Natasha Hodges Hair The P2 Collective Serenity Therapies Skin Therapy, The Pantiles

Food & Drink Business Award

Sponsored by Benenden Hospital

Cohesion Consulting Create Balance Impeccable Plumbers Karen McClure Garden Design Kent Wine School KMJ Property Sales and Lettings The Right Tuition Company Sharp Minds Communications Simply Luxury Escapes Smartist Social Media

Sponsored by GF HR Consulting

Sponsored by Berry & Lamberts Solicitors Atelier Chocolates Bean Smitten Coffee Roasters DoDoMi The Earl Grey Tea Rooms Kiko Sushi & Yakitori TN1 Bar & Kitchen Tunbridge Wells Coffee Roastery Zorba Meze & Grill

Retail Business Award Sponsored by NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells Brittens Music Chomp Go Goosey Groombridge Farm Shop The Meek Boutique The Rum Company Stampede Whirligig Toys

Creative Business Award Sponsored by Big Orange Media Digitom Video Production GLASS by Claudia Hardman & Hemming Kidsbury Role Play Villages Manic Ceramix Sharp Minds Communications Smartist Social Media Yoyo Design

Health & Wellbeing Business Award

The BiG TOE Reflexology Kalon Dental OsteoStrong Tunbridge Wells Revive Health Fitness The Spring Rooms AG Osteopathy TWPT Yoga by Margarita

Ethical Business of the Year Sponsored by Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce

Amora Care Groombridge Farm Shop Goupie Kidsbury Role Play Villages Willis Bloom Yoyo Design

Employer of the Year Sponsored by Stratstone Tunbridge Wells BMW

Active Digital Amanda Redman Financial Planning Amora Care Create Balance Limited TN Recruits Limited Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials

Community Business of the Year Sponsored by Eight Wealth Management Arty Farty Retreat Bookmania Colley Raine & Associates The Inside Spa Communications Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials Word Up!

Small Business of the Year

Large Business of the Year Sponsored by Chilliapple

Berry & Lamberts Solicitors Hotel du Vin The Massage Company Spa Communications The Spa Hotel TN Recruits

Businessperson of the Year

Sponsored by Charles Stanley Danielle Friend Gemma Farina John Whitehead Karen McClure Becky Moran David Martin

Members’ Choice Award

Presented by media sponsor, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

The Earl Grey Tea Rooms Essence at The Pantiles Even Flow Groombridge Farm Shop Old Auction House The P2 Collective Ruby’s of London Stampede TN1 Bar & Kitchen Trinity Theatre

39

FEATURE

40

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Talking sense

J

Lucy Morgans is the Creative Director at Hendrix Training and also a professional actress.

Here she reveals her top tips for successful public speaking and how you can benefit from the specialist training offered by the company…

ust thinking about giving a presentation can make our palms sweat and our heart race as the nerves kick in.

Public speaking can be daunting, yet it is an essential skill to conquer if we want to progress in our careers.

Whenever we deliver a presentation, whether online or in person, there will be objectives to meet. This might be to convey information and share our expertise, change the way someone

Lucy Morgans

“ Like actors we are giving

a performance and have an audience in front of us critiquing our every word and movement

”

behaves, or alter perceptions.

If we fail to do this confidently, our audience will not be engaged and respond in the way we want them to.

Unfortunately, the more we worry, the more anxious we become.

Standing in front of people is like being on stage. Like actors we are giving a performance and have an audience in

front of us critiquing our every word and movement.

This link with the acting world means we can learn from performers to ensure stage fright does not scupper our efforts to be a good communicator in a business or social environment.

Remember, if we are asked to present at work, it is usually because we are an expert in what we do. Get these things right, and you might even enjoy the experience!

Here are some top tips from the acting world for giving an engaging confident presentation: • Breathe from your diaphragm to give you more breath when presenting and avoid the shallow-breathing panic you feel when nervous. If you don’t know where your diaphragm is, put your thumb on your last rib and place your hands on the bottom of your stomach • Warm up your mouth and jaw as you would any other part of your body before activity. Pretend you are chewing a toffee

• When rehearsing a presentation, experiment with volume and pitch to make your voice as appealing as possible but still keeping the tone natural. Good presenters can vary their speech depending on whether they are presenting in an intimate space, online, or speaking to a group in a large room. Think about pausing during your presentation and slowing down • Don’t rely too much on notes or PowerPoint as this can sap your energy and bore your audience.

Remember you are talking about something you know about so relax.

Trust your knowledge of your subject and your preparation • Walk into the room or onto a stage with confidence. Think about your posture and eye-line • Don’t be afraid to move during your presentation. Try speaking from different points on the stage to keep your audience interested

About Hendrix Training Lucy Moffat and Steve Hemsley formed Hendrix The Dog in 2008 to help organisations boost their employees’ confidence by using acting techniques in their employee training and personal development strategies. This includes providing innovative presentation skills coaching.

“When people are at work they take on

a role,” says Lucy. “They have internal and external audiences to engage and influence and, like an actor, must make the most of their voice and body language to help them meet their objectives, particularly when presenting or in a meeting.”

For more information visit: www.hendrixtraining.com

41

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Charity Begins at Ho-Ho-Home Did you have to go to Santa School?

I went to an expo full of Santa Clauses, Mrs Clauses and wall-to-wall Christmas.

I got to talk to people already living my dream, finding out what other Santas get asked.

So how do you actually become Father Christmas?

The suit is important, and it needs to be decent. The accessories bring it all together. I've got my very own beard – I

“

It’s the best job. I’ll go wherever Santa is needed – fairs and fetes, schools, retirement homes, businesses and corporate events

”

Neil Long is a former business entrepreneur who has since become an ambassador for Taylor-Made Dreams, helping make wishes come true for children with life-limiting illness. But at this festive time of year you might see him don a special red suit.

Nicola Withers speaks to Neil about his involvement with the charity and his special Santa work…

Neil, how did you get involved with Taylor-Made Dreams?

My son went to school with Taylor, so we knew his mum, Suzi. Then, when Suzi started the charity in 2014, we started helping out. When I retired in 2018, I sold my business and offered to do something a bit more permanent for Taylor-Made Dreams.

Suzi suggested I helped out one day a week. At that point it was just Suzi full time. I’d deliver gifts to children, taking and picking things up for their wishes.

Then, as TMD grew, I took on an ambassador role because I had more to offer and things snowballed from there. I now help at lots of events, including the biennial ball where I’ve been different characters, including the White Rabbit. I also go to the A21 Connect BNI networking group every Friday where the members have raised £40,000 since 2021.

Even without the connection to Taylor and Suzi, Taylor-Made Dreams is still a

charity I’d support. It’s simply amazing full of great people, the most incredible children and their families. And it’s with the families where we make a difference.

The children love having their wishes granted, but it’s the families who have the precious memories to keep forever. You can’t put a price on that.

And now you have a new hobby alongside your charity work…

Yes! About 20 years ago, we went to Lapland to see Father Christmas. It was truly magical. When we met Father Christmas in his grotto, that was it. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to be Father Christmas one day.

So I worked on getting older and fatter and growing the perfect beard! In the last few years, a couple of people have asked me to be Santa. So I got a cheap suit and did a few ‘appearances’ and it grew from there.

I decided to start doing it professionally, upgrading to be a real Santa.

do ask the children to test if it’s real – and I bleach my hair to get that snowy white glow. I've now got more hair products than my wife!

It’s the best job. I’ll go wherever Santa is needed – fairs and fetes, schools, retirement homes, businesses and corporate events. And, of course, private home visits. And that’s where the magic happens. I can come and check up on the children throughout December, to make sure they’re on the Nice List – or not!

How far does your sleigh go?

I do home visits in and around Crowborough & Tunbridge Wells. I’ve got 100 children booked in so far with spaces for more. Booking is through my Facebook group (Santa Personal Visits) where you can also keep up to date with all my Santa news.

To get in touch visit Neil’s Santa Personal Visits on Facebook

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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A good innings

Last month over 180 business leaders attended a Best of British Events at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells which saw cricketing legend, Graham Gooch OBE as its guest speaker. Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine finds out why guests were so bowled over by the occasion…

G

raham Gooch, one of England’s most successful cricketers, is widely regarded as a legend in the sport. With a career spanning over two decades, Gooch amassed more than 8,900 runs in Test cricket and captained England in both Test matches and One Day Internationals.

Renowned for his resilience and dedication to the game, his standout achievements include leading England to the 1992 World Cup final and scoring a remarkable 333 runs against India in 1990.

At the recent Best of British Events in Tunbridge Wells, Gooch captivated the audience with his comical and insightful stories from his cricketing career, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of professional cricket. Sharing anecdotes about his time on the field and his experiences with fellow cricketers, he gave an entertaining and memorable

Photography: Sam Stephenson perspective on the sport and those he played alongside.

Attendees included leaders from a range of local businesses including, UpFix, TN Recruits, Webtrends Optimize, Lock Associates Group, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine and Dev Assist.

This prestigious networking event supported Taylor-Made Dreams, a local charity dedicated to helping children with life-limiting illnesses fulfil their dreams.

Taylor-Made Dreams creates personalised ‘Taylor-Made’ bucket lists that cater to the unique wishes of each child, from special toys and experiences to meeting favourite celebrities and planning dream holidays.

At the event CEO Suzi Mitchell shared her inspiring story of founding the charity

“

At the recent Best of British Events in Tunbridge Wells, Graham Gooch captivated the audience with his comical and insightful stories from his cricketing career

”

after her own son was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Driven by the desire to make all his wishes come true, Suzi set up Taylor-Made Dreams to help other families create cherished memories during difficult times.

With the support and generosity of guests and sponsors, this event raised over £10,000 on the day.

Ryan Heal, CEO of Best of British Events said: “It was an honour to welcome Graham Gooch and hear his inspiring stories from his remarkable cricketing career. Not only is Graham a cricketing legend, but he is also a humble, kind, and generous individual. We deeply appreciate his time and presence, which greatly contributed to our charitable efforts in support of Taylor-Made Dreams.”

The Best of British event hosts a range of leading business networking events and fundraisers across Sussex and London. For more information please visit: bestofbritish.org.uk

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INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

The techs you can trust

Fixio prides itself on providing the best IT support and tech in the local area. Eileen Leahy meets its co-owner Jon Traquair to discuss the range of services the specialist company offers to help streamline clients’ lives and online experience…

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sudden, unexplained glitch with your laptop, an issue with a new piece of software or your Mac freezing for no reason can wreak havoc on your working day. I’m sure we all agree that technology is utterly fantastic when it works – but just one bit of tetchy tech trouble and we’re absolutely stumped.

And if you’re working from home, running your own small company or freelance then the chances are you won’t have an IT department to log a complaint with if something goes wrong.

But the good news is help is at hand and it comes in the form of Fixio - a local team of technology experts who can turn their hand to repairing, refurbing and remotely assisting you.

You may have spotted the Fixio shop, which is located on Goods Station Road, right in the heart of town, or know the company under its former moniker of The MacMan which has operated from the same central site in Tunbridge Wells since 2012.

But before we get into why the business has rebranded and how it’s developed even further, Fixio’s co-owner Jon Traquair shares a little backstory to the company’s history with me.

“The MacMan was originally established by my friend and now business partner Matt in 2006 as an Apple support service based in Brighton. It became very successful due to the number of SMEs in

that area and so I joined in 2012 after I left my job in London.

“I had no experience in retail, IT or sales but I said to Matt, ‘I’m going to do what you’re doing in Tunbridge Wells’. It was funny because Matt said he was going to ask me to join anyway as one of his biggest clients was the Nevill Estate based here in Tunbridge Wells. It was all very fortuitous and we still work with them now,” he smiles.

“

For many years when we were The MacMan we were known as the go-to for fixing Apple products but we didn’t want to limit ourselves to just that. As Fixio we are now growing our IT support, retail and sales offerings too

”

Things began ticking along nicely for the firm but it was the pandemic that was a real gamechanger.

“We’d started to build up a team by then but when lockdown happened everyone was either furloughed or working remotely.

Suddenly we were getting lots of calls but whether or not we could open up was a totally grey area. So I ended up writing to then MP Greg Clark asking him whether we could still operate. He responded saying yes as we were classed as key workers and so we went from there.”

INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Jon says that over the past four years he and Matt have expanded the business greatly from just repairing and selling computers and are now looking to grow the other areas they now specialise in.

This includes tech support, onsite visits, sales and general advice. In addition to the sites in Brighton and Tunbridge Wells, Fixio now also has premises in Sevenoaks and Crawley and employs 16 members of staff.

“That’s what resulted in the name change from The MacMan to Fixio three years ago,” reveals Jon. “For many years we were the go-to for fixing Apple products but we didn’t want to limit ourselves to just that. We are now growing our IT support offering for small and medium-sized businesses as well as homeworkers and are currently working

with around 30 different companies across Kent and Sussex.”

Fixio now also has a lucrative contract with Amazon where it can sell refurbished Apple products.

“Our Crawley office is right next door to a DPD depot and we realised that if we used that we could take an order from Amazon up until 7pm in the evening and have it delivered anywhere in the UK by the next day and that’s something that is working very well for us.”

When it comes to expanding even further Jon states Fixio has its sights set on a few other things such as offering

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air time contracts for mobiles and also home automation, where a home’s lights, heating, TV etc are all controlled through a master panel.

“We’ve certainly come a long way since we first started but our goal to provide the best quality items, independent tech repairs, support, training and sales has never changed,” says Jon. “The bottom line is if there’s a problem with something we will sort it out. Our reputation means everything to us.” www.fixio.co.uk 01892 300999

FIXIO’S AREAS OF TECH EXPERTISE Business IT Support Network & AV Installs Onsite Visits Apple & PCs Instore Repairs New & Refurb Sales

Could your business withstand a crisis?

Business crises can devastate brands. Whether it’s a serious accident, a fall in market confidence or employee misconduct, having a prepared communications strategy is crucial.

It enables you to stabilise the situation swiftly and protect your reputation. Siobhan Stirling, Managing Director of Sharp Minds Communications, explains how proactive planning can help your business not only weather potential crises but emerge stronger.

Why invest in a proactive crisis communications plan?

Having a plan can control a crisis - and control is the name of the game. When facing a crisis communication situation, your goal is to protect your organisation’s reputation. Responding quickly and with confidence is the only way your business can seize control of the situation and turn it to your advantage.

Understanding potential outcomes, especially if the media becomes involved, can help prevent issues before they escalate.

In an ideal world, your crisis comms plan will never need to be enacted,

but like any good insurance policy, the investment could prove to be the difference between make or break.

How to be crisis ready To create a clear and concise, proactive crisis communication plan, you need guidelines for: the right message; to whom that message should be delivered; who should deliver it; and the right time to communicate it.

Being prepared is essential, but being ready to act at a moment’s notice is vital. Your crisis team must be organised and available to respond quickly, while also proactively identifying risks in business strategies.

The exact ‘right message’ will depend upon the specific circumstances, but the mantra of crisis communication is simple: concern, relief and reassurance.

You also need a plan for how you will communicate internally and agree on these elements quickly to ensure that everyone within your business has the correct authority and sign-off.

The killer question Effectively protecting your business’s reputation during a crisis can help make the situation a short, sharp blow rather than one big enough to damage your good name. The question is: are you prepared?

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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.

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LEGAL NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

CooperBurnett LLP celebrates two major legal industry rankings CooperBurnett, who are based on Mount Ephraim Road in Tunbridge Wells, are celebrating being ranked in two of the legal industry’s most influential listings.

Once again the firm has been included in the prestigious Legal 500, but, for the very first time it has also been included in the prestigious Chambers and Partners for 2025.

For the latter, it was listed in three categories: Real Estate for the South; Corporate M&A/SME owner-managed businesses for the South; and a new national category of SME-focused firms.

In addition, Russell Brinkhurst, a Partner in the Corporate and Commercial team has also been ranked and moved up a tier.

The Residential Property team at CooperBurnett has been a key feature of the firm since it was established more than 40 years ago. Head of Residential Property, Jennifer Irving, who has been with CooperBurnett for more than 20 years says:

Russell Brinkhurst

David Brown

“I am thrilled with our growing team’s recognition in Chambers. We have so much experience here, as well as longevity. Our team has remained busy through the market’s ups and downs over the years and this is down to the quality of the work we are able to attract.”

CooperBurnett, who operate across Kent, Surrey and Sussex were singled out in the Legal 500 as being a particularly

‘personable team’ supporting clients across a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, IT, education, charity and hospitality.

In the meantime, CooperBurnett has also been named as one of the ‘firms to watch’ in Construction. The Legal 500 says Partner David Brown ‘stands out due to his longstanding expertise’.

Partners John Spence and Russell Brinkhurst were instrumental in preparing and organising the submissions.

“We are very pleased about our excellent rankings in The Legal 500 for 2025,” says John Spence. “We are very proud of our Corporate and Commercial team in particular and excited to see our Construction team receive this recognition as well. It’s a testament to how dedicated and highly-regarded we are at CooperBurnett.”

TSP instructed to advise Senior hire on firm’s ‘ambitious plans’ at Cripps

Tunbridge Wells law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore is now advising on an impressive national industry deal.

Doré Metal Services Southern Limited, a leading distributor of non-ferrous metals in the UK with turnover of in excess of £13 million in 2023, has acquired Southampton-based M. G. Metal Holdings Limited and Thomson Snell & Passmore (TSP) will be overseeing the deal.

This strategic move, in line with Doré’s ambitious growth plans, will enhance the operational capabilities of both companies, enabling them to better serve their existing customers while creating new opportunities for growth.

The acquisition further solidifies Doré Metal Services Southern Limited’s position

as a leading supplier of non-ferrous metals in the UK and beyond.

The addition of the Southampton site will complement Doré Metal Services’ existing operations in Kent, Bristol and Hertfordshire, significantly enhancing the company’s ability to service the South of England and Wales.

Joanne Gallagher, Head of Corporate M&A at Thomson Snell & Passmore led the midmarket Corporate team on the purchase.

Commenting on the work Joanne said: “This was a really rewarding transaction to have been part of, helping Doré Metal Services bring its ambitious growth plans to fruition. We wish the team all the best as the organisation goes forward with a strengthened market offering.”

Gail Brooks has joined Cripps, a top 100 law firm as a partner in its family team.

Trained in collaborative practice, Gail has extensive experience in all family and matrimonial matters.

She specialises in advising high-net-worth individuals navigating complex financial settlements involving companies, trusts, property portfolios, and international elements.

Gail also represents clients in matters relating to cohabitation agreements, child custody arrangements, and financial issues arising from separation.

Kate Arnold, head of Cripps’ private client group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gail to our family team.

Her expertise in complex family law matters will be invaluable to our clients, strengthening our practice as well as the wider firm with her experience and insight.”

Gail commented: “I am thrilled to join the talented team at Cripps. I am passionate about helping clients navigate the complexities of family law and finding solutions that are tailored to their individual needs.”

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2024

FEATURE

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INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Seat of power The TEK Group is a Tunbridge Wells-based business which has grown into one of the area’s most successful companies. Comprising TEK Seating, SitSmart and TEK Military it offers seating solutions for all manner of general and specialist professional sectors. Eileen Leahy pulls up a chair to talk to its CEO Paul Fleming…

The TEK Group’s Tunbridge Wells HQ and some of the specialist seating they offer When and why was the TEK Group established?

TEK Seating came under its current ownership in 1983. Previously it was known as Transport Equipment Kingston. TEK Seating supplies vehicle seats to the aftermarket working within various industries. SitSmart was a small ergonomic office chair company that had been running for 20 years in Godalming, Surrey. TEK purchased it in 2001 as it sat very nicely alongside our TEK Seating portfolio. TEK Military Seating was formed in 2009 when we identified a market which could work alongside our other two companies. We are now able to design and manufacture our own products.

All three companies now form the TEK Group. We have 55 employees in the group with 43 based at our production facility in Rearsby, Leicestershire and the others at our Kingstanding Way premises.

What’s your business’s particular USP? There are several different companies who supply ergonomic chairs and seats, but I’m not aware of any others who provide the SitSmart personal ‘try before you buy’ service. It is important for the user, especially if they are a back sufferer, to make sure the chair is suitable for their needs before they commit to purchasing it. Although SitSmart deals with companies and some large contracts country-wide, we pride ourselves on being a small family firm, our personal, bespoke approach and an after-service that supports our clients. The main proportion of our business is done in Kent, Sussex, Surrey and London, selling to businesses and individuals for their home offices. TEK Seating, as an established company and one of the UK’s leading vehicle seat distributors for the aftermarket,

MEET THE MANAGEMENT: (From left to right)Paul Fleming, CEO of TEK Group,Charlie Harding, TEK’s Group Business Development Manager, Matt Hutchinson, Sales Director at SitSmart

continues to supply the whole of the UK and parts of Europe with its quality seats.

What do you enjoy about doing business here?

Tunbridge Wells is in the unique position of being an hour outside of London, but also less than an hour from other major places such as Brighton, Maidstone and Ashford.

There is also a wide variety of different businesses based in and around the town which our products are applicable to. We are very lucky to have some great local customers who include Tonbridge School, G Collins & Sons, the National Trust’s Knole Park and Wells Physio. TEK Group is also supplied by some fantastic local companies such as Green Hippo Print for our printing, Tecwork for our telecommunication and Emily Harding Photography. The people we work with are committed, loyal, passionate with a real sense of pride about their work.

Are there any key goals you would like to achieve in the next year or so?

SitSmart would like to continue pushing deeper into our local businesses.

Whether this is accountancy and legal firms, control rooms, CCTV locations, schools, hospitals, or the numerous other organisations in the area, we feel they could truly benefit from our services. The fact we are local means we’re on hand to help sort out any requests or issues.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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What are you most proud of to date?

How far TEK Group has come since those early days. Tunbridge Wells was my childhood home and it’s where I’ve lived my whole life. Having my business located in Tunbridge Wells has meant I was able to be involved with my children and grandchildren, while networking locally and building the business abroad.

Keeping a facility in Leicestershire has enabled us to diversify and expand into manufacturing for TEK Military and TEK Seating. Investing in people locally here and at Rearsby has been paramount in our success.

For more info: Visit www.sitsmart.co.uk Email: sales@sitsmart.co.uk Call: 01892 510202

EDGE OF YOUR SEAT:

Some of SitSmart’s most popular chairs include the KAB Controller, Enjoy Elite G2 from Comfort Seating and the HAG Capisco.

SITTING COMFORTABLY – TEK GROUP’S THREE SEATING COMPANIES SitSmart takes immense pride in being a leading provider of ergonomic office chairs. Its extensive product range includes renowned brands such as KAB, RH, Viasit, Comfort Seating and Hag, catering for many different market sectors such as offices, home users, those suffering with bad backs and the 24/7 market such as Network Rail Control Rooms throughout the UK. TEK Seating supplies a comprehensive

collection of seats for the aftermarket working in such areas as bus and coach, construction, agriculture, material handling, rail and marine. It also offers a range of services for bespoke retrimming and repairs across all sectors. Our in-house design and R&D team have allowed us to manufacture and supply companies such as Morgan cars.

TEK Military Seating brings together the group’s vast portfolio of tried and

tested seat components with in-house seat design and manufacture to offer defence customers across the world the highest levels of safety and protection in most military vehicles. The creation of its ProTEK® brand of military seating has introduced new innovations, modularity and new technologies to the marketplace, with ProTEK® now recognised as a global market leader valued for its quality, robustness and cost effectiveness.

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

watering and beautiful cakes, scones, flapjacks and more, courtesy of Susan.

We offer a full range of very reasonably priced breakfasts, lunches, and other snacks and pastries and cater for Gluten Free customers, Vegetarians and Vegans wherever possible and will always listen to advice to ‘up our game’ and meet the needs of all our lovely customers.

“Community means everything to us” The TN card is the loyalty card that rewards our community for supporting local at over 950 independents across Tunbridge Wells and the TN postcodes. This month founder Jess Gibson chats to Denise and Susan at Tea and Coffee House Leaf & Bean in St John’s, where members enjoy 10% off food and drinks Denise and Susan, firstly congratulations on your business. Have your feet touched the ground yet?

Thank you so much, Jess. It feels so unbelievable that we are approaching our first-year anniversary of Leaf and Bean opening. It has certainly been a rollercoaster and continues to exhaust, excite and exhilarate us! We want to stand out as being the best place for all; one that makes customers feel comfortable, well fed, nourished and welcomed. In conjunction with this, it is our intention to join the Chatty Café scheme in the new year, a project to combat loneliness in the community.

Can you reveal the story that led to Leaf & Bean opening?

Denise: I have worked in education all my life: 25 years as a primary school teacher and then six years at a secondary school in Pastoral/Student Support. It was certainly time for a change and new challenge. Two things changed for me over the past decade; one was having breast cancer seven years ago, which I was successfully treated for, and the other was turning 50 in 2022. The idea popped into my mind about opening a tearoom.

Four words sprang to mind: “I can do that!”.

Susan: I have had a wide range of jobs; including working for the NHS and Education where I worked in Pastoral/ Student Support for 17 years. This is

where I met Denise. In 2002, I too was diagnosed with breast cancer, and like Denise underwent a course of treatment and operations. I am glad to report that I am all clear, but this experience changed my outlook on life. It was great to meet Denise, who had the same vision as me, so together we made it happen!

How does your professional relationship tick?

We concentrate on building on each other’s strengths and working as a team.

It has been comforting knowing that we have the same ethos and understandings about the business and how we believe it will grow.

What can we find on the Leaf & Bean menu?

Everything found on the menu is either baked by Susan, cooked by Denise, or bought in from local bakeries and bakers.

We pride ourselves on the most mouth-

What makes Leaf & Bean special?

We certainly think Leaf & Bean is special and one of its kind in Tunbridge Wells.

Firstly, we are the faces of our lovely cosy and friendly tearoom. Everything about Leaf & Bean has been lovingly thought about. From sanding the floor, to finding and upcycling the furniture, supplying vintage crockery, learning barista skills, to understanding till systems and accounting software. We have done all this ourselves.

St. John’s is a competitive area, so we offer a different experience and ambience. Uniquely, we enjoy putting together information and themed events such as World Frog Day, International Women’s Day, St. George’s Day, Eurovision and the Olympics and regularly host quiz nights and book clubs.

We are following our dreams of making a successful business to be proud of independently and through blood, sweat and tears. We value every penny our customers give us and feel proud when they tell us of the fabulous time they have had at Leaf & Bean. We are looking at having a fulfilling end to our working lives before retirement.

Thank you for joining the TN card. Why is it so important to support local?

From the outset, we wanted to provide a hub, a place to meet in the community and we can safely say we are getting there. Having the TN card initiative accentuates this premise for us.

Welcoming returning happy customers by name and giving them the loyalty of a discount is something we enjoy doing day after day. We have seen the rise in TN card members coming to the tearoom, so this means it is working!

www.thetncard.com

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

RECRUITMENT

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Getting into the seasonal spirit In his regular column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID tells us about how the BID is bringing Joy to the Wells with its Christmas Kick Off for 2024

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hristmas is a particularly important time for our retailers and hospitality venues, which together make up around 50% of RTWT BID Members. Our aim is to encourage people to dwell longer when they visit and therefore, in addition to lighting up the town and running an extensive Joy to the Wells promotional campaign, we will run activities to encourage a festive atmosphere.

For the last four years RTW Together BID has successfully enhanced the natural beauty of the town over Christmas by lighting it up with over 10 crosswires across key central roads, 68 motif displays, 21 sets of suspended decorations in trees and 4 dedicated feature displays.

2024 will see further investment of

£100,000 to bring even more lights to the town. We are delighted to be partnering with Maxipay, who are collaborating with us to include a dedicated new illumination: a projection video over the Opera House.

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS: Thursday 14 November Thursday will start with the Big Lights Switch On when all the external Christmas

lighting is turned on for the town, as well as the first viewing of the new illumination over the Opera House.

Led by Santa in his sleigh and lots of snow, sponsored by local law firm CooperBurnett, a parade will then head down from the Opera House to the old High Street with a rolling road closure to accommodate the crowds. Panto characters and the local Choir will lead the public in singing 12 classic festive songs as

Law firms don’t solve problems, people do.

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

the 25 winning raffle tickets who will win prizes from local businesses. To provide a great finale to the main event, an eight-minute firework display to music, sponsored by children’s charity Demelza, will launch from the roof of Christ Church, to Kick off Christmas with a bang*! Exploding over the High Street they will be visible from most areas on the street. (*We will be using ‘quiet’ fireworks to minimise disturbance for residents and local pets.)

“ 2024 will see a further

investment of £100,000 to bring even more lights to the town. We are delighted to be partnering with Maxipay, on a new projection video over the Opera House

”

the procession makes it way to the High Street. Elves will be handing out free chocolate coins and free raffle tickets to win prizes. Donations are welcome for Mayors Toy Appeal and Nourish.

On the High Street, West Kent Radio (plus a special guest), will announce

THE BIG REVEAL – CHRISTMAS WINDOWS Retailers, hospitality and professional services who are taking part in the Big

Reveal will also launch their creative, exciting Christmas displays on Thursday 14 November.

Members of the public will be encouraged to vote for their favourite display using the new free town App between November 14 – 28 with the top 12 becoming finalists. Then between December 1-18, alongside a festive trail for children to complete with a prize draw, residents and tourists will be asked to choose which of the 12 finalists are their winner. The winning businesses of the Big Reveal 2024 will, in addition to trophies and certificates, win a marketing support package for their company to use over the next six months.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: Thursday 14 November 4.30pm Christmas Performance from local Choir 5.00pm First viewing of the illuminated projection display 5.15pm Singalong a Santa Parade – singing classic Christmas songs with panto characters, choir and Santa (starts Opera House, ends High Street) 6.20pm Bauble Bingo Prize Draw 6.50pm Firework display above The High Street

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COUNCIL NEWS

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“There are a number of ways we can fund our ambitions” For our November edition we speak to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Cabinet Member Christopher Hall, who is in charge of Finance and Property, about the upcoming TWBC budget and how you can get involved in having your say about shaping it…

T

his is my third year as Cabinet Member with responsibility for Finance and Property at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and it remains a privilege to be entrusted with setting the Council’s annual budget once again.

I’m acutely aware of how much the Council’s services are valued by our community, and how careful we need to be to deliver a solid financial platform to realise our ambitions for our residents and business owners.

The budget setting for the year 2025 - 26 is nearing its draft stage, where we will put it out to public consultation in December, inviting your views on Council Tax, spending and income sources. Please look out for the invitation in our weekly e-newsletter.

At the time of writing, I am tensing

“

The budget setting for 2025 - 26 is nearing its draft stage, where we will put it out to public consultation in December, inviting your views on Council Tax, spending and income sources

”

up about what might come out of the Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ budget on October 30. There’s talk of increasing employer’s National Insurance. From my point of view, every 1% increase will have an impact on our staffing costs and make it more of a stretch to balance the budget

by March next year.

What I think we really need from the Chancellor is more devolved powers for local councils to act in the best interests of their communities and steer economic growth. Business rates for instance are set by government and are only collected by the Council on behalf of the Treasury in Westminster.

We do get to see some of the proceeds (net of appeals) of any business rates growth. Our share is 40% but only on any new developments built out in the financial year. Council tax increases

Are you struggling to manage staff social media use in the workplace?

For many years, employers have faced challenges with social media, whether that’s employees broadcasting complaints about the workplace or sharing views that don’t align with the company’s values.

However, with the rise in popularity of the platform TikTok, a new challenge is becoming increasingly apparent. The platform is full of user-generated content, often with workers creating content in the workplace, with the ever-popular “day in the life” style videos.

While many of these videos can bring positive exposure and brand awareness, the lack of productivity, confidentiality concerns, and your business’ reputation must be considered.

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Your social media policy should have clear guidelines that you can refer to. This ensures that

all employees are aware of the standards you expect and that they must be adhered to.

In addition to this, you should provide training about your social media policies and, specifically, make employees aware of their obligations regarding confidentiality, data protection, and safeguarding.

Without this, employees may be unaware of the unintentional damage they could cause.

Finally, you need to be confident in your disciplinary process. Should an employee misuse social media in the workplace, you need to know which next steps to take when it comes to escalation.

Having a clear procedure mapped

out makes the process more efficient, saving you time and money; and potentially limiting any reputational damage.

If you’re looking to update your social media policies, we can support you with this.

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COUNCIL NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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for the Borough Council are restricted to 3% per year, which means that with increased overheads, what we have available to spend per resident is falling further behind Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Maidstone.

To give the new government credit they are looking at reforming planning fees which would give us more scope to raise income. We also have a significant risk coming up in 2027 when our waste contract expires. Current market rates

suggest that we will need to find the resources to fund an additional £4.5 £5m per year.

No one said it was going to be easy. However, there are things the Council can do and not everything has to be funded directly from Council Tax payers. There are a number of ways

we can fund our ambitions. Our asset base is strong, and we are slowly raising capital funds by disposing of some surplus assets. Government grants have helped fund some of our projects, and then there are developer contributions and our own investments delivering additional income. All of this will have to be balanced with what we can realistically finance and deliver and over what timeframe.

Finally, I am also responsible for property. The Council owns a wide array of assets ranging from car parks, Royal Victoria Place, residential property and even historic memorials. However, probably the most obvious one is the Town Hall.

I’m really pleased with the work that Mandy Weston and Town Square have done in re-purposing the building as a co-working space for the business community. So far, occupancy rates have risen to nearly 50% and that’s still before it’s finished with a new café area to come this year.

The team are also delivering some well-attended business workshops and a Start-Up Club. The provision of flexible co-working space is something that we can do to create the right environment for businesses to grow and develop. We need to be a strong incubator of the creative talent here and I’m hopeful we can continue to support our business community with our ambitious strategic plan.

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FEATURE

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Community Heroes – Meet Nell Mellerick

W

hen it comes to Nell the plates are endless, she is the owner of Arty Farty Retreat, Co-Founder of TW Fringe, Chair of CREATE and is a volunteer organiser for Southborough Rocks, The Southborough Winter Fair, The Winter Lanterns Parade and Director of The Community Pantomime.

Nell holds a BA (Hons) Fine Arts degree and has lived and worked in and around Tunbridge Wells for 25 years, previously providing art workshops and programmes in both care homes and hospice settings before setting up Arty Farty Retreat six years ago.

Can you tell us why give so much of your time to support the local community?

As an artist, I am totally driven by wanting to give as many people access to the arts as possible. Art, in all its forms, should be something everyone can explore, irrespective of wealth, class, ethnicity or age. Over the last 20 years there have been so many funding cuts nationally and even locally for the arts, not to mention a reduction in the number of young people pursuing employment in this sector because they are being told it’s not a worthwhile career. Some of

that is beyond my control, but if, in my volunteer work, I can help younger people discover their talent, even if it is simply something to enjoy as a hobby or as a source of wellbeing, then that makes me very happy.

What are you currrently volunteering on?

I am helping to organise The Southborough Winter Fair and Christmas Lights Switch on. Taking place on December 7, it brings local crafters and businesses together to showcase their products for sale. This year I am really excited that the Christmas Tree will be in the heart of the community, taking centre stage in the Southborough Town Square by the Civic centre.

You also volunteer as Director of The Community Pantomime too, tell us more?

This year we are performing Treasure Island from January 17-19 and this is a community initiative that is very close to my heart as it celebrates and welcomes everyone. The group has been running in various iterations for over 25 years, and I have been involved as Director for the last 10 years. It is a fun, fully-inclusive pantomime, and everyone who takes part

NELL MELLERICK

“

Picture: Adas Gold Photography

This month Sarah Raine spent time with serial volunteer and community champion, Nell Mellerick to learn how she keeps all her creative and philanthropic plates spinning for the good of the town…

As an artist I am totally driven by wanting to give as many people access to creative culture as possible

”

volunteers their time, there are no show fees. We also endeavour to ensure it is accessible in terms of ticket price too, we know times are tough financially, and so the cost is just £14 per adult and £10 per child. We celebrate neurodiversity, and the cast and the backstage crew learn new skills as part of the experience.

You are also heavily involved in Winter Lanterns, tell us why it is so important?

Winter Lanterns (8 February 2025) is one of the most wonderful events which sees our local community getting creative, it literally lights up Lower Camden Road each year! The committee that works on the event ensures it reaches out to people who are struggling financially by offering free lantern making workshops to those in need, it gives local residents pride in their local community and it celebrates imagination and creativity. What’s more, it brings the community together, making memories and collectively gathering together for the parade.

Picture: Adas Gold Photography

The TW Fringe Festival has gone from strength to strength over its four years, as its Co-Founder you must be incredibly proud of what its achieved?

The TW Fringe has grown phenomenally in the four years it has been running.

Alongside my fellow founders Debbie King, Aimee Cooper and Grace Simpson

FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

group of friends she meets up with in her community.

For more information about events in Southborough follow @Southborough Street Community and to find out more about Winter Lanterns follow @WinterLanternsTunbridgeWells.

To discover more about Nell’s Arty Farty group visit artyfartyretreat.co.uk

Picture: David Hodgkinson

Do you think the events you give your time to support are spaces to learn creative skills as well as improve mental wellbeing?

Absolutely. I believe we live such busy lives that we have forgotten how to let go creatively, to truly express what we are thinking and feeling. Our wellbeing is impacted by not giving ourselves head space. In addition, we are so preoccupied by working long hours,

worrying about what people think, trying to live ‘instagram-perfect’ lives, that we don’t have time to immerse ourselves in our community, to enjoy what’s on our doorstep. A young teenage girl came to a holiday workshop I was running, and in chatting together, she shared with me that she didn’t really have a social group in her community because she didn’t have any opportunities to get to know people. Fast forward a few months and she has been part of a volunteer crew putting together lanterns for the parade, working backstage planning the panto and volunteering at some TW Fringe events, and now she has made a

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we have been able to create a festival platform to celebrate local talent and we are delighted by the support it receives in the town.

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“It is a great honour to do this job”

Gary Valentine-Fuller has recently opened his second funeral home, here in Tunbridge Wells. He tells us how he and his team do things differently to ensure families receive the best bespoke support at such an emotional time…

M

“

y original business, Valentine and Turner in Orpington, now Valentines, was opened ten years ago on Orpington High Street.

We’ve built a strong reputation as a family run business, picking up several awards, but are perhaps best known for our television appearances highlighting our work during the covid 19 pandemic.

My second funeral home here in Tunbridge Wells, GM Valentines, is also run by my wife and I, with the support of extended family members and trusted colleagues. We chose a different name as it will be a sister company with its own website and branding.

I have been an undertaker since I was 15 years old. I grew up in South London and started at the bottom, washing the funeral cars and making the tea. I worked my way up to management of a well-known firm in the capital before moving on to launch my own business. I have always been fascinated by undertaking. I remember as a child one of my favourite TV programmes was Don’t Drop the Coffin.

It focused on a company called FA Albin and Sons, with Barry Dyer at the helm.

He really inspired me. I do find death intriguing – despite its certainty there is still the element of the unknown. I was certainly drawn to the showmanship of undertaking – but it’s the idea of someone

taking charge and looking after families in their greatest hour of need – that’s what makes it such an honour to do this job.

I have always been very fond of Tunbridge Wells. I have friends in the town and prior to running a business here, I often visited. I love all the history attached to it – especially The Pantiles. It really has a unique community spirit; it’s a fantastic place. It was an easy decision to open a business here.

There are several funeral homes in Tunbridge Wells, but very few are still run by families, so it will be great to offer that independent service. I am a very traditional funeral director in some senses, I wear a top hat and carry a cane, but one of Valentines’ big USPs is that we really care about the smaller details. Every life is unique and therefore every funeral should be, too. You can only do a funeral once. I’m big on bespoke requirements, so every time a family come to me, I will ask about their loved one, their life, their personality, their interests – assuming they are comfortable sharing that, of course, we will always be led by the client.

For example, if someone’s mum loved pink, we would reflect that on the day, wearing pink ties, and fixing a pink plume on the hearse. It really is the little things that make the difference on the day.

We have been made to feel very welcome in Tunbridge Wells, many of the

Gary with wife and fellow funeral director Kirsty Valentine

“

Every life is unique and therefore every funeral should be too

”

local businesses surrounding us have reached out to say hello. We’re already proud members of the TN Card and are one of the sponsors of the new Tunbridge Wells Business Awards taking place later this month. We hosted our official launch on November 9 and it was a lot of fun, with a jazz band performing, and horse rides around The Pantiles. We obviously have a very sensitive role to perform in the community, but we really wanted to put on a reception for the Tunbridge Wells community to enjoy, and I am so pleased to say it was a great success.

I hope we can become an embedded part of this fantastic community and we look forward to serving local families when they need us.” www.gmvalentine.com

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Current Vacancies Private Client Solicitor

Vehicle Technician

Tunbridge Wells £50-60,000 Outstanding Private Client Team have an opening for an experienced lawyer to join their leading team Applications: Emmamoss200@googlemail.com

Tunbridge Wells £35,000+ Competitive salary Great showroom Flexible hours Applications: ben@tnrecruits.com

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Tunbridge Wells OTE £45K Group training program leading to accredited status Minimum 25 days holiday Staff car benefit scheme Private healthcare discounts & cash plans Applications: melissa@tnrecruits.com

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Helping companies grow by sourcing the best talent

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RECRUITMENT

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

61

Strengthening teams and building careers for over 25 years

At Recruitment Solutions we’ve been working to build teams that build businesses, and careers that reward, since 1999 in Tunbridge Wells. But who are the personalities behind the brand and what are our values?

Our Origins Recruitment Solutions was founded

by Robert Dutton in with one simple but powerful mission: to be different by genuinely caring—about our clients, our candidates, and about getting it right.

Our guiding principle is straightforward: to deliver the level of service we would expect to receive if we were a client seeking a permanent member of staff or someone to cover absence, or a candidate seeking work. By staying true to this vision, we have proven that we save companies, time and money, improving staff retention whilst also changing lives, one successful placement at a time. We are a recruitment company that never loses sight of what truly matters: the human touch. We understand that each person, whether a client or job seeker, brings unique skills and needs to the table. That’s why we focus on building relationships, understanding goals, and always keeping people at the heart of what we do.

Our Process For clients we recognise that your people are the essence of your company, service, and overall experience. Great talent shapes your company’s future, and that’s why we prioritise finding candidates

Robert Dutton who not only meet the qualifications but align with your company’s vision and values. Our process is designed to ensure every candidate we present is a seamless fit, ready to make an impact from day one.

For candidates finding the right job can be life-changing, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

We understand the importance of a career that resonates with your personal aspirations, skills, and growth potential.

Our mission is to connect you with opportunities that truly align with who you are, what you can do and where you want to go.

Recruitment Solutions is proud to have built a reputation for quality and trust.

We’ve earned glowing testimonials from both clients and candidates alike and maintain high standards as validated by our REC accreditation and consistently positive Google reviews.

“Recruitment Solutions really understood our needs and went the extra mile to find candidates that felt like a perfect match for our company culture.

They truly deliver the personalised service they promise, they saved us time in recruiting process and we are delighted with the new member who has joined the team” Tunbridge Wells : Service Supply Company : Nov 2024 Our Services Across our three locations, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Kings Hill we recruit for permanent roles, temporary positions and fixed term contract placements.

Our teams are skilled in all levels from graduate to Director roles across a variety of sectors including legal, finance, sales and marketing.

At Recruitment Solutions, we’re about people first. We don’t just fill positions; we help build careers, strengthen teams, and make a lasting impact on lives.

Shouldn’t you be talking to us about your next hire?

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

"Building something as unique as your own business means you’re creating your own path" This month photographer and entrepreneur Dee Airey examines what it takes to start your own venture

W

hen I say I love Miley Cyrus, I’m not talking about the twerking days (are we still bringing that up?). I’m talking about her sheer authenticity and powerful lyrics that resonate on a deep level. Her song “Flowers” was everywhere - a bold, empowering anthem that had everyone listening. But it’s another track from her album that caught my attention, and it’s more than just catchy: it’s like a metaphor for the journey of building a business.

The song is called “Island,” and it stopped me in my tracks. Its chorus

“

The closer you get to your goal, the more natural it becomes to look back at where you started and realise that, yes, it was challenging, but yes, it was also worth it

”

is both haunting and hopeful: “Am I stranded on an island, or have I landed in paradise?” That line speaks directly to anyone brave enough to start their own business. Starting up often feels like a leap into the unknown - a vulnerable place where you feel exposed, sometimes even alone, with everyone watching and wondering what’s next.

Building a business is a journey that looks thrilling from the outside but can feel isolating on the inside. You work tirelessly to build something new, often without the support you’d expect from those closest to you. Friends and family may not “like” your social media posts or share your work.

They might not understand your dream, and while some may stand by you, others might drift away. The truth is,

starting something meaningful, like a new business, can feel like you’re stranded on an island. But maybe, just maybe, it’s exactly where you’re meant to be paradise in the making.

As business owners and entrepreneurs, we hold onto the comfort of our personal circles, hoping our friends and family will be our biggest cheerleaders. But here’s the reality: not everyone can join you on this journey. Not everyone sees what you see, or understands what you’re working towards. As Miley’s lyrics suggest, there’s a shift that occurs when you pursue something extraordinary. You’re stepping out of the “safe bubble” of your life, creating ripples that naturally cause some people to fall away. It’s not because they don’t care - they simply may not know how to support your growth.

But what if, rather than seeing this as a loss, you could view it as landing in paradise? Building something as unique as your own business means you’re creating your own path, with you calling the shots. This journey might feel

isolating, but it’s that solitude that offers you a new perspective, new confidence, and ultimately, new connections. You’ll find your supporters along the way, people who understand your vision and share your drive.

The closer you get to your goal, the more natural it becomes to look back at where you started and realise that, yes, it was challenging, but yes, it was also worth it. That “island” feeling - being alone, adrift - is actually the place where the real magic and growth happens. So if you’re TH chasing your dream, take a moment to ask yourself: are you really stranded, or have you just found paradise?

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

A golden opportunity for investors Rodrigues & Ross is a renowned whisky cask trading company rooted in centuries-old traditions of trading excellence. Boasting many loyal clients here in Tunbridge Wells and plans to hold specialist whisky-tasting talks at Club Quantum, we speak to the company’s founder and director Elliot Doney about why keeping whisky casks as an appreciating asset is key to maximising the capital gains tax-free potential of your portfolio When did you start Rodrigues & Ross?

We were established in March of this year, but have over 50 years of collective experience in the cask whisky industry between myself and our partners.

What gave you the idea of launching this particular business?

I’ve worked as a sole trader in the whisky cask market for many years. The name of the business, is something very close to my heart: my mother’s maiden name ‘Rodrigues’. She is a direct descendent from a Madeira wine cask merchant. Madeira wine casks are used widely in the Scotch industry to mature single malts and add a ‘sweet’ finish to the whisky. ‘Ross’ refers to my partner and co-founder, whose family roots are Scottish and Irish. We aim to supply our clients with competitivelypriced casks of Scotch Whisky, Irish Whiskey and Rum, using our established industry connections and family links.

Is the market a crowded one or are you relatively unique in doing this?

We are unique in a number of ways. There are several companies selling whisky casks currently, but most of these are very large operations with dozens of brokers in a call centre environment. We are completely different in that we are a boutique outfit with only a handful of skilled and very experienced people in our small team. The Scotch whisky market alone is currently worth £7.1bn in the UK, with Scotch accounting for 77% of Scotland’s food and beverage export, and 26% of the UK’s.* Where are you based?

Honouring the historic roots of the industry, our head office is located at 1 Royal Exchange in the City - the spiritual home of trade in the West since the 1500s. We are only one of a handful of companies that are able to supply all clients with their own Deliver Order, (or D.O for short). This provides our clients

“Whisky inevitably becomes valuable and rarer with age, and it is this rule which underpins the rationale behind investors diversifying into cask collection in times like this” with freehold ownership over their casks, which is very important as you need this documentation to sell your casks when the time comes.

What are the key benefits of holding casks?

Apart from casks being capital gains tax-free upon exit, as whisky matures it becomes rarer as each year goes by. The vast majority of cask whisky is bottled between age 3 - 12, so there is constant consumer demand for aged whiskies, and this continues to build year on year.

Whisky inevitably becomes valuable and rarer with age, and it is this rule which underpins the rationale behind investors diversifying into cask collection in times like this. In terms of growth, the annual market average over the last 10 years competes fearsley with equities and other traditional markets, and remains the most popular form of luxury asset according to market data.** We’ve worked with casks which have far exceeded expectations in a single year before.

While there are no guarantees around these figures, as it is not regulated by the FCA, independent advice should always be sought. But the market remains consistently robust and consumer demand is growing in established and emerging markets.

How does the whole operation work once you have invested?

It’s very similar to property as casks are a tangible freehold asset. You’re welcome to visit your casks in the bonded warehouse if you wish, and even sign your name on them. There are numerous exit strategies including; cask auction, distillery or brokerage buy-back, independent bottlers and more.

Do you need to have a lot of money to invest?

The simple answer is no, however, different levels of capital are relative to different individuals, based on your personal investing goals and overall budget for diversification. To see a return which is going to be of considerable benefit, there are particular levels that we would recommend depending on your budget, investment goals, and a level at which you feel comfortable.

How long do you advise people leave casks to mature and what happens next?

As a rule of thumb we recommend a hold time of around 5 years minimum, with potential options to trade out before and after this as your casks continue to mature and age under bonded and insured conditions. As the saying goes ‘Good things come to those who wait’. So the longer you hold, the better you can expect your casks to perform as they gain higher maturity under bond and become increasingly rare with age.

If you want to get involved email: info@rodriguesandross.com, or call 020 8064 1970, to request a free brochure download and consultation to get the ball rolling.

Website: www.rodriguesandross.com Email: info@rodriguesandross.com Phone: 020 8064 1970

*Whisk(e)y cask investments are unregulated in the UK. Value of investments are variable and can go down as well as up.

We are not tax experts. Fees and terms & conditions apply for the service. Always seek independent financial advice before investing. **Market data by KPMG and SWA.

W H I S K Y F O R

C A P I T A L

C A S K S

A P P R E C I A T I O N

“Untapped potential”

“Better than liquid gold for investors” - Financial Times

- Forbes

“Whisky has outperformed other investments such as wine and gold...

The whisky market is booming” - The Guardian

DISCOVER WHY INVESTORS ARE DIVERSIFYING INTO THIS LUXURY LIQUID ASSET…

• Tax-Free • Highly Competitive Annual Growth* • Fully Insured • HMRC-Regulated Bonded Storage • Multiple Proven Exit Strategies • Distillery Buy-Back Agreements*

Scan to download your free Cask Collection Guide today…

INFO@RODRIGUESANDROSS.COM WWW.RODRIGUESANDROSS.COM Rodrigues & Ross Limited, registered as a limited company in England and Wales under company number: 15561274. *Please note that capital is at risk and the Whisky/Whiskey cask market is currently unregulated by the FCA and not covered by the FSCS. Any investment can go up as well as down and you should always seek independent financial advice before purchasing goods and services. Testimonials are used purely for marketing purposes. Some fees and conditions apply for service and upon exit. *We do not give financial advice and we are not tax experts. The Guardian does not necessarily support, endorse or recommend whisky as an investment. Hold times can vary, but generally range from 5 years+.

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PROPERTY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

How to prepare to rent a property In her column for this month Becky Moran of TN Lettings reveals what you need to secure your dream property in a highly competitive rental market as a first-time renter or experienced tenant…

Picture: Mollie Manning

Our guide on how to prepare to rent a property will help you know how to put your best foot forward in the rental market. Find tenant tips and learn how to secure your dream property in a competitive market. Whether you’re a first-time renter or experienced and know what to look for, use our guide as a refresher on how to find your next property.

Get Your Finances in Order

There are a few costs that come with renting properties, so having a small amount of savings can make for a smooth transition.

These include some upfront payments: • First month’s rent.

• Holding deposit: Equivalent to 1 week’s rent, this takes the property off the market whilst checks are underway.

• Tenancy security deposit: equal to five weeks’ rent. So long as you keep the property well maintained, you’ll get this back at the end of the tenancy.

Finding the right place for you

There is a long list of wants and needs that make a property perfect for someone; it is a good idea to note what features are key to your decision.

This could be something as large as the number of bedrooms and location, all the way down to the number of cupboards in the kitchen. If you are considering renting with someone else, talk with them about what you need in a place. This can help to save lots of buyer’s remorse when you have eventually moved in!

Tenancy Application

Now that you’ve found your dream property, you’ll need to start thinking about your application. As part of this, you must prove you can afford the rent through an income affordability check. Landlords are looking for your gross income to be 2.5x more than the property’s rent. If you are self-employed, you may need to prove your earnings are consistent over a period of time.

Once this information has been provided, a hard credit check will be carried out to ensure you have no history of bankruptcy, missed payments, or court summons for missed payments.

Finally, you will be asked to provide a reference from your previous landlord.

A good reference will show you can pay your rent on time and that you have kept the property in good condition, proving

you are the ideal tenant!

Employment references. Some applications may ask you to provide a reference from your workplace to share more about your character and employment.

Moving In

Now that your application has been approved, it’s time to set a moving-in date!

To make the moving-in process smooth, ensure that as many items are packed away as possible. You probably own more than you think, so it’s best to avoid any last-minute stresses. You should begin

“

At TN Lettings we know how important it is to match the right tenant with the best landlord and property

“

How To Prepare to Rent a property

the process of getting the bills all in order, including the council tax, water, energy, and broadband.

We know how important it is to match the right tenant with the best landlord and property. That’s why at TN lettings, we’re experts in the TN postcode area, so we can point you in the right direction when finding your dream home in this area.

When choosing your next home to move into, think carefully about your budget and when you’d like to move in. This will help narrow down your search… www.tnlettings.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

PROPERTY

Searching for your home in Crowborough?

Take a look at this fine Edwardian 4/5 bedroom (2 bath/shower room) detached house spanning circa 2500 square feet, set back from Southview Road and positioned in a popular, quiet location, yet just a short walk from Crowborough town centre.

Southview Road, Crowborough Price range £900,000 to £1,000,000

office 01892 280435 Crowborough 2 The Broadway, Crowborough TN6 1DF

www.charlescentury.co.uk

crow@charlescentury.co.uk

TUBS HILL PARADE LONDON ROAD - SEVENOAKS Retail premises - 579 sq ft – To Let - £15,000 pax

KINGSTANDING BUSINESS PARK TUNBRIDGE WELLS Trade Counter Warehouse premises 2555 sq ft - To Let - £32,500 pax

SUSSEX MEWS - THE PANTILES TUNBRIDGE WELLS Office building with underground parking 2360 sq ft – To Let – Rent on application

MOUNT EPHRAIM ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS Professional office in fine Grade II listed building 329 sq ft – To Let - £9,950 pax

COMMERCIAL AGENTS & CHARTERED SURVEYORS

01892 552 500 info@durlings.co.uk

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PROPERTY

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Time to reflect, or react?

This month Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential assesses the current housing market following the announcement of the Autumn Statement and what that means for buyers and sellers

Y

ou would be forgiven for not knowing that one of the biggest influencers on the housing market is the weather! However, did you also know that the number one factor is consumer confidence?

There are many examples of this over the years. Take the pandemic: in those spring months of 2020, our media was filled with doom and gloom, and deals collapsed in their thousands as buyers questioned whether now was the time to make such a huge decision.

Then of course the world gradually reopened, people re-evaluated their sense of home, money was cheap to borrow, and so the market heated up. Consumer confidence grew, and like a self-fulfilling prophecy, the property market exploded.

The irony is that during this time, buyers will have paid a premium to make their property move. I understand this: when a market is on the rise, it is difficult to call or believe that it will ever slow. Equally, when a market is weakened, there can be a sense of trying to catch a falling knife:

An award winning, RIBA chartered architectural practice based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent and Mayfair, London.

Our team goes beyond creating visually appealing architecture and interiors, we craft environments.

Every project we undertake is a collaboration journey with our clients.

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Specialists In: Redevelopment Projects | Conversions | Bespoke Residential Projects | Large Refurbishments | New Build Private Homes | Barn Conversions

Get in touch: 07484 818 966 | hello@atelierdelinde.com

when are you at the bottom?

The recent autumn market has been testament again to the influence of consumer confidence. When Labour won the election in July, the market breathed a sigh of relief, certain now of the direction the country would be taking and with ambitious new home-building plans creating a sense of optimism.

Then Rachel Reeves discovered the

‘£20bn black hole’ and the recent positivity faltered. We saw unsettling talk of changes to Capital Gains Tax treatment of second homes and stamp duty reforms. And although it was later felt that there would be little that would materially affect the general home mover, consumer confidence fell, and the market paused again.

We all now know the outcome of

PROPERTY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Market value

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Durlings chartered surveyors and property services tell us about two of their latest acquisitions: NEW BEGINNINGS

“The recent autumn market has been testament again to the influence of consumer confidence” Labour’s first budget, and it will be businesses that will feel the biggest pinch, with increased Employer National Insurance contributions and Business Rates. The jump in stamp duty on second homes will see some prices re-negotiated, and we have to wait to see the effects on the private rental sector, but generally, for most of us, there will be little change.

So will buyers now reflect that the next time the market pauses, they should be the brave one who ignores negative media commentary and public opinion, and secure their next dream home for a cheaper price than that negotiated in a buoyant market? I would like to think so, but the truth is, probably not! www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

SPN Studio building – spin, pilates, and yoga - in Camden Road has been sold by Durlings to The Mummy Hub - themummyhub.com This characterful two-storey building with spin studio in the basement comprised a total of 2066 sq ft. The building was sold off a guide price of £425,000 after a short marketing period.

MEDICAL NOTES

Kims Hospital - kims.org. uk have leased the ground floor of The Pantiles House on Nevill Street through Durlings.

The space extends to 2320 sq ft with a covered parking area, and is to be used for client consultations. The premises was advertised to rent at £37,500 per annum exclusive of all other outgoings.

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

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Your Trusted, Local, Independent Letting Agents

PROPERTY

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2024

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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

After Hours SOCIAL SCENE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2024

Where to wind down in the Wells

Escape to the country We discover the joys of Water Lane in Hawkhurst

Snapper's delight Don't miss legendary rock photographer Pat Pope's new show

Christmas presence What's on where this festive season in Tunbridge Wells

Ground force Meet our new gardening guru Tim Sykes

Italian job Why La Spiga is such a great foodie find if you love Italy

Great escape Our top travel tips for adventurous globetrotters

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Dining Delight

One of the area’s most charming destinations, Water Lane in Hawkhurst, is now serving dinner every Friday and Saturday evening. Eileen Leahy pays the venue a visit to discover its unique seasonal and very inspirational menu which you can savour under the stars…

Photograph: Maria Bell

O

ne of the best pieces of news to drop into my inbox this year was a press release saying that Water Lane in Hawkhurst was opening on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The venue’s PR Hannah Blake didn’t have to ask me twice if I wanted to head down and see what the exciting nocturnal dining offering was all about.

Ever since Water Lane’s custodians, Ian James and Nick Selby, acquired the former Walled Nursery in Hawkhurst a few years ago I have been a huge fan.

Not only of the pair’s inspiring vision for the former Victorian walled gardens’ ongoing restoration, but for the regular artisan markets, expert workshops and community events they regularly host too.

It also has the most gorgeous gift shop which boasts all kinds of stylish finds.

And then of course there is its exceptional epicurean offering courtesy of Water Lane’s talented head chef Jed Wrobel whose dishes are rooted in

seasonality, innovation and adventure.

During the summer months you will usually find him and his team cooking al fresco on Water Lane’s terrace – which overlooks the charming flower

and vegetable gardens that have been brought back to life thanks to an extensive restoration project carried out with renowned RHS horticulturalist Jo Thompson.

One of the top rated Turkish Restaurants in Kent!

Located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, 10 minutes from the train station and 16 minutes from the Pantiles.

X Christmas Set Menu: 3 Courses £35.00 X Once A Month We Have An Elvis Tribute Act 7pm-1pm X Office Parties Catered For, Budget Friendly From £35.00 X Cocktail Bar Open Till Late

Thank You To Our Customers In Loyal Tunbridge Wells!

01892 530051

zorbamezegrill.com 2 & 4 Upper Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

AFTER HOURS

During the winter months (and chillier spring and summer days) diners are welcomed into Water Lane’s historic Carnation glasshouse to dine.

And it’s here I find myself one Saturday October evening having crunched up the gravel drive and entered into what feels like a magical otherworldly retreat - illuminated by twinkly fairy lights, glimmering candles and would you believe it stars shimmering in the sky? It’s

certainly a million miles away from your average Saturday night dining experience - which is why it is just so charming.

The intimate space is filled with families, couples and groups of friends all enjoying a great Saturday night. It feels like we’ve stumbled on some kind of and very special supper club…

The menu, which changes every month, oozes autumnal goodness – squash soup and sage croutons, pearly barley with foraged mushrooms and egg yolk, basil buttered greens and bavette with an indulgent celeriac and stilton gratin. I could happily eat every single dish!

Browsing the drinks menu I’m pleased to see there is an expertly curated selection of English wines. But not the usual suspects: There’s a Westwell Fitz Brut, a Natalia Harris Bacchus – and a cracking Stopham Estate Pinot Gris.

Foodwise, my guest and I are stumped as it just all sounds too tempting. How do you choose just one starter when you can have cold cut belly and plum ketchup, whipped butterbeans, dukka and homemade crisps and braised squid in puttanesca?

Happily we’re informed that here at Water Lane it’s relaxed. In fact, ordering sharing plates is positively encouraged… so we add corn on the cob, smoked paprika butter and tams tipple, plus a plate of chalk stream trout, beetroot and crispy leeks to the mix.

What we experience is culinary nirvana. Every dish is perfectly executed, accentuating the most of the key ingredients and seasonal flavours through clever alchemy. In a world where you will find identikit menus in most places it is such a tonic to come somewhere like

Water Lane where you can not only uplift your tastebuds but your senses too…

From November to March Water Lane is open Friday and Saturday 10am - 9.30pm and Sunday 10am - 4.30pm. Lunch is served during the week with roasts available on Sundays.

To book visit: www.waterlane.net Water Lane, Hawkhurst Kent, TN18 5DH

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

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Photograph: Maria Bell

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

laspigarestaurant@gmail.com

3B Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS

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Called to the bar

One of our favourite places to enjoy a cocktail, a selection of tapas and watch the world go by is sitting at one of the chic tables at Charlotte’s. Read on to find out why after just a year and a half in business this is the place to sip, see and be seen…

H

aving opened 18 months ago Charlotte’s in the Pantiles now has its feet firmly planted on the historic walkways of Tunbridge Wells.

Offering guests an impressive range of cocktails, fine wines, draft and craft beers, along with non-alcoholic options and coffees – not to mention several delicious food options and the chicest of interiors courtesy of SGS Designs – it is the place to see, sip and be seen.

Operations Director Adam Peters-Ennis and his team work tirelessly to keep the menus fresh, innovative and exciting – especially when it comes to the drinks offering.

The new winter menu will soon be gracing the popular venue’s beautiful marble top counter and tables.

“It will have something to suit the tastebuds of those new to cocktails and for the stalwart drinker who knows their Martinis from their Sours,” smiles Adam.

“Updates to the wine list will be made too with some delectable additions,” he adds.

“I always like to have some fun with the new drinks and I involve our bar team so they can get their creations on the menu too. It’s a collaboration of minds and tasting - research goes a long way.

“We as a team at Charlotte’s are incredibly passionate about everything we do. Whether that’s looking after

oyster happy hour buy one oyster, just like this one, and get another completely free

4 'till 5pm every friday at the old fishmarket & sankey's mt epharim 01892 511 422 sankeys.co.uk

our guests with impeccable service – something for which we have become renowned for – to our incredible variety of drinks and delicious food. We always do so with fun and personality at the forefront.”

Charlotte’s do take reservations but you if want to head down on Friday and Saturday evenings then remember they often booked up weeks in advance – especially at this time of year.

“But if you are passing by do pop in … as you won’t be disappointed,” says Adam as he serves up the most perfect Margarita you’ll ever taste… www.charlottesinthepantiles.co.uk

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Christmas cooking chronicles Stuck for a little bit of culinary inspiration? Then let Scott Goss, Executive Chef at The Beacon, let you in on a little Christmas magic…

In your opinion what makes a good vegetarian version?

I love a vegetarian Wellington and we do these in the restaurant at The Beacon. It includes celeriac, butternut squash and wild mushrooms and is created with lots of love and care as it’s such a great dish.

It makes for a delicious dinner and is very theatrical when presented on the dinner table.

So Scott, what is your top Christmas cooking tip?

Prepare well in advance, get those veggies cooked and then in the fridge.

Then on Christmas day all you need to do is cook them and get them hot!

The 6 Ps are: Perfect preparation prevents p*** poor performance! (As the Chefs say) Any festive cooking tips you can share?

Christmas can be stressful so one thing I love to do at home with my family - and would love to share as it works - is to get everyone involved. Gather the family together, give everyone a job such as kids peeling veg together and make it fun! By doing this with no phones - just Carols from King’s on in the background - is a really lovely way to bring everyone together and creates special memories.

When our fires are lit, the fairy lights are on and dinner is served it all looks so picturesque

Do you believe in turkeys for Christmas?

Absolutely it’s a brilliant and beautiful bird and most importantly its plentiful!

One good-sized bird should feed you and

the family for Christmas Day and then Boxing Day turkey curry a la Bridget Jones.

It will last well and we love things that make plenty of dinners…

“ ”

What will we see you serving up at The Beacon this year?

I think it will be lots of fun, laughter, Christmas joy, beautiful food and wines - with great service. We have changed various dining rooms around to allow for more gatherings in our private rooms. They include the Billiard room, Card room and now the Hearth – all of which can be hired. When our fires are lit and the fairy lights are on it all looks so picturesque…

The Beacon is open for Christmas gatherings please email: I'll be Mother hello@the-beacon.co.uk or call 01892 524 252

Luxury Hampers inspired by Tunbridge Wells www.calverleyhampercompany.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Italy In search of a really authentic taste of one of her favourite places in the world, Eileen Leahy savours the delights of dining at La Spiga, a truly memorable and authentic experience right from the very first bite…

M

y husband and I will be married 20 years this December. We got engaged in Verona in 2003 and have been fortunate enough to holiday multiple times in Italy ever since with our family and friends.

The country has a truly special place in our hearts and so we’re always on the hunt for a good Italian restaurant. And although there’s no shortage of them here in Tunbridge Wells we have never quite found ‘the one’ for us - until now that is…

It’s called La Spiga and is located on Monson Road and what it lacks in dining space it certainly more than makes up for courtesy of its incredible food and wonderfully welcoming ambience.

It might have only opened a few months ago, June to be precise, but La Spiga is fast

becoming one of the town’s go-to eateries thanks to its deliciously authentic dishes which are prepared and cooked from scratch by the restaurant’s talented chef and proprietor Andrea Balzano.

Yes, it may be bijou and boast just 22 covers but it truly is the real deal when

it comes to serving up food that could easily be on the menu at a smart Milanese restaurant or a Tuscan trattoria.

The emphasis here at La Spiga is on seasonality and the finest, freshest ingredients to achieve a true taste of Italy courtesy of the wonderful dishes Andrea lovingly prepares.

Originally hailing from Torino in the northwest of the country, it’s no surprise to hear you’ll find lots of traditional hearty fare on the current menu including classic lasagne, aubergine parmigiana, maccheroni amatriciana with cured pork, carbonara and polpette beef meatballs.

But as Andrea’s father is of Sardinian origin there’s also a lot of seafood and sunshine flavours on the menu too. Dishes such as caciucco, a robust fish stew in a tomato broth, buratta and mortadella served with pistachios and generous garlicky gamberoni panfried prawns are just a few of the tantalising picks.

Andrea’s partner Dominika, with whom he runs the restaurant tells us on our first evening there that Andrea’s signature dish is risotto vino rosso cooked with sausage, shallots, gorgonzola and red onions (£16.95).

“Customers come back for this one alone,” she smiles.

The restaurant is full when we visit one Friday evening and given the amount of

chatting and clattering going on clearly guests are having a good time.

“We don’t rush people here,” reveals Dominika. “It’s all about enjoying the food and atmosphere.”

Handing my husband Steve and I some menus she tells us this week’s special is a spaghetti pollo cooked with mushrooms, garlic, black pepper and double cream

“

La Spiga may be bijou and boast just 22 covers but it truly is the real deal when it comes to serving up food that could easily be on the menu at a smart Milanese restaurant or a Tuscan trattoria

”

(£15.95) and suggests a glass of Trebbiano – a crisp, easy-drinking white wine that’s an Italian classic and a rare find here in TW - while we peruse the menus.

We decide upon a duo of starters to share: a classic creamy buratta, accompanied by the juiciest of ripe tomatoes, fresh rocket and a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts (£9.60) and the pan-fried spicy garlic jumbo prawn (£11.95). The gamberoni arrabbiata to be more authentic are plentiful and

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The festive season is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome you with a glass (or two) of bubbly.

Host your Christmas gathering with seating for up to 20 in our intimate first-floor restaurant or reconnect with friends in our newly renovated conservatory.

Our open fire and sandstone cave will also be waiting for those enjoying a late-night drink; both spaces are bookable upon request.

Christmas Set Menu 2024

A glass of Prosecco on arrival and a Christmas cracker are included.

2 Courses £34.95/ 3 Courses £39.95

Starters

Butternut Squash & Sage Soup, Rustic Breads (VE, GFA) Spinach, Beetroot & Goat’s Cheese Roulade (V) Smoked Salmon & Prawns, Horseradish Cream & Lime Vinaigrette (GF) Chicken Liver Pâté, Cranberry Compote, Mini Rolls, (GFA) Game Terrine, Plum Chutney, Sourdough Bread (GFA)

Mains

Roast Turkey Roast Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Gravy Roast Gammon Pineapple, Roast Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Gravy Cranberry Nut Roast (VE, N) Roast Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Vegan Sausage & Stuffing, Gravy Triple Cheese & Aubergine Lasagne, Garlic Bread (V) Edgcumbe Fish Pie, Broccoli (GF) Vegan Mushroom Risotto (VE, GF)

Desserts

Christmas Pudding, Brandy Custard (N) Apple & Cinnamon Bread & Butter Pudding, Cream Pear & Cranberry Crumble, Vanilla Ice Cream (VE, GF) Orange & White Chocolate Cheesecake Ice Creams (GF, V): Rum & Raisins, Chocolate Orange, Vanilla OR Fruity Sorbets (GF, VE): Mango, Raspberry (choose any 2 from the above) Selection of Local Cheeses, Crackers, Homemade Chutney, Grapes & Celery (£5 supplement)

Available only for groups of 6 or more, with a pre order required 7 days in advance.

To confirm a Christmas Set Menu booking, we require a deposit of £10 per person.

Please note that all bookings in the private rooms on the first-floor restaurant must vacate the area by 10.30pm.

The Mount Edgcumbe, The common, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3GH 01892 618854 hello@themountedgcumbe.com

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moreish. Mopping up the last morsels with Andrea’s homemade bread we could be on a summer holiday in Puglia the flavours are so good.

While we await our mains I spy Andrea through the open kitchen stretching out dough to make pizzas – another popular

“

Andrea’s signature dish is risotto vino rosso and it’s cooked with sausage, fennel, gorgonzola and red onion and out of this world

”

choice here. I have it on good authority that the picante is out of this world.

Andrea, who has worked as a chef for the past two decades, also makes his own pasta – everything from orecchiette to taglioni and spaghetti. No wonder he’s been a finalist at the PAPA, a prestigious European competition for pasta and pizza making.

I opted for the now-famous vino rosso risotto for my next course and I am not disappointed – it’s generous in size, rich and an ideal winter warmer.

Steve eventually decides upon the strozzapreti frutti di mare (£19.95) – after

deliberating over the pink peppercorn salmon (£19.95) and awards his dish, which comes with homemade strozzapreti pasta, clams, mussels, razor clams, squid and prawns ten out of ten for flavour and authenticity too.

Whenever we go to Italy we always try the local tiramisu – just for research purposes you understand. And a visit to

La Spiga is no different. We’re pleased to report that its version (£6.95) is everything you would wish for from this classic Italian dessert: indulgent and irresistible – a bit like dining at La Spiga…

More info on how to book and to discover its menus for Christmas visit: www.laspigarestaurant.com @la_spiga_tunbridge_wells

“The only magazine in the town for business people written by business people” Contact us to discover how your company could benefit from being part of our new exciting business community and enjoy unique marketing, PR and networking opportunities.

www.twbusinessmagazine.com hello@twbusinessmagazine.com

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Winter warmers

This month, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine’s Drinks Editor James Viner shares his top autumnal bottles from the Southern Rhône Valley…

A

s the dark evenings settle in and winter approaches, I’d like to recommend some bolstering bottles of red wine from the sun-drenched southern (méridional) Rhône Valley in southeast France, where 75% of AOC wine is red.

For those who appreciate approachable, sustaining, ripe, spicy and fruity wines that pair well with hearty soups, stews and other autumnal dishes, the generous, full-bodied red wines from the southern Rhône are hard to resist.

Grenache, the late-ripening, heat-loving grape known for its thin skin and ability to gain sugar (and alcohol) with abandon, is the star here and habitually blended with slow-ripening Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsault and the thick-skinned, tannin-rich Syrah, the sole red-wine grape permitted in the cooler, more prestigious northern (septentrional) Rhône crus, which typically account for around just 5-7% of the region’s wine.

Here are five vibrant, cockle-warming southern Rhône selections to perk up the cool evenings and complement the robust seasonal fare. Time to get cosy…

1. 2023 PALAIS ST VIGNI, CÔTES DU RHÔNE (£5.45, Tesco) Launched in 1937, the Côtes du Rhône (CDR) appellation now spans 171 communes and 50,000 hectares, producing about 45% of the Rhône’s AOP wines. This unoaked, budget-friendly red is dry and straightforward, bursting with ripe red and black cherry flavours and a hint of black pepper. Perfect for autumn stews, ratatouille, or sausages and mash. ●14% 2. 2022 WAITROSE BLUEPRINT CÔTES DU RHÔNE (£6.99, Waitrose) This is an easeful, bargainous and appealingly supple blend of 60%

Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Cinsault (fostering lightness). Think blue fruits, strawberries, woodland berries, silky purple and red plums. A perky number with filigreed tannins and high drinkability. Hello, roast duck or roasted squash and mushrooms. Lovely drinking. ●14% 3. 2022 CÔTES DU RHÔNE, LE TEMPS EST VENU, STÉPHANE OGIER (£21.95, Berry Bros & Rudd) Occasionally, the producer transcends the appellation. With more peppery/ grippy Syrah than most (40%, topped up with 60% Grenache), this gorgeous, structured, classy CDR gets my thumbsup. It offers a delicious mélange of brambles, violets, baked red plums, dried herbs, succulent black fruits and berries that develop gently and

“

JAMES VINER

For those who appreciate ripe, spicy and fruity wines that pair well with hearty soups, stews and other autumnal dishes, these full-bodied red wines are hard to resist

”

satisfyingly. Runs deliciously long. An onsong, pajamas-by-the-fire, artisanal wine from one of the Rhône’s winemaking wunderkinder. Cries out for grilled meats. ●14%

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

4. 2022 CHAPOUTIER CHÂTEAUNEUFDU-PAPE (£29, Asda) Tremendous full-bodied winter warmer from the historic village and famous family-owned merchant-grower situated a 15-minute drive from the remarkable historic walled city of Avignon, with lots of rich, herby, spicy, ripe blackberry and red plum fruit oomph, plus a touch of stony minerality, medium acidity, medium tannins and a fair dollop of alcohol. Sheer sensuality. Pour with beef wellington, boeuf à la gardiane and roast duck/grouse. ●15%

5. 2018 THE WINE SOCIETY’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY GIGONDAS (£29, The Wine Society) In 1971, Gigondas was the first Côtes du Rhône-Villages to be elevated to cru status in the Southern Rhône. Nestled at elevations of up to 550 meters, its vineyards benefit from the cooling shade of the jagged Dentelles de Montmirail limestone mountains (the foothills of Mont Ventoux, Provence’s highest peak), which temper morning temperatures, lending freshness to the wines. Hit the heights with this filigreed, fleshy, Grenache-forward

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Gigondas, scented with black olives, dried strawberry/raspberry fruit, black fruit, rose petals and thyme. Detailed, concentrated and fresh, it’s a digestible delight to drink now or lay down a few years. Shines with venison casserole, game birds and roast lamb. While I typically approach high-alcohol wines with caution, this pristine Grenache showcases a delicate flavour that’s truly exceptional. ●15.5% For more information visit vins-rhone.com Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines

MUST-TRY LOCAL SUPERMARKET WINE: 2023 Tesco Finest English white, Balfour Winery, Staplehurst, Kent (£12, Tesco) The Kent wine scene is thriving, much like the Rhône Valley’s, as I discovered during an early press tasting of Domaine Evremond’s first Classic Cuvée, which will be released for sale next spring.

This collaboration with Taittinger Champagne was showcased at the grand opening of the 60-hectare vineyard in Chilham at the end of September. The estate spans 125 hectares, with 60 hectares dedicated to vineyards, and is named after Charles de SaintÉvremond, renowned as ‘the first ambassador of champagne in

England.’ Local Balfour Winery, a fellow member of the Wine Garden of England collective, has already built an impressive reputation.

This vibrant Balfour white wine, crafted mainly from Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Bacchus, with a hint of Pinot Noir, offers an enticing blend of cut grass, citrus, nettle, stone fruit and gooseberry. Fab with fish pies or as an aperitif. Look out for the next 25% Tesco Clubcard offer on six+ bottles ● 11.5% For more information visit winegardenofengland.co.uk

From left to right: Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, Vitalie Taittinger, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Patrick McGrath MW at the official opening of Domaine Evremond winery in Chilham.

CHRISTMAS AT TN1 BAR & KITCHEN Looking for the perfect place to celebrate the festive season?

Whether it’s a family gathering, a night out with friends, or an office Christmas party, TN1 Bar & Kitchen has you covered!

Delicious festive menus, tailored for all tastes Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday Dance the night away after your meal Warm and festive atmosphere, perfect for creating lasting memories

BOOK NOW! 01892 513900

@TN1barkitchen

Celebrate Christmas the right way at TN1! www.tn1barkitchen.co.uk

AFTER HOURS

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A visual feast

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Looking for artistic inspiration for Christmas gifts? Look no further than the new TWells Creative Arts pop-up shop says Suzy Phillips

Ch o o se T ri n i ty t h i s C h ri s tm a s

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OPEN S 14 DECEMBER BOOK NOW TRINITYTHEATRE.NET 0 1892 678 678

Poster design by Tom Peteuil

Photographs by Cam Harle

or the fourth consecutive year the locally run TWells Creative Arts will be returning to fill one of the units at Royal Victoria Place (RVP) with colour and style.

This year the group have been afforded a much longer period to exhibit which will see them run all the way through Christmas and up until Sunday January 5. Open now, the gallery is situated on the Upper Level of the RVP opposite HMV and just down from M&S. Visitors will find fourteen quality local artisans under one roof showcasing some of the best-crafted jewellery, ceramics, glass art, handmade and dyed textile art, a range of paintings, photography and greeting cards.

Chair of the group and Raku Ceramic artist, Wes Groves said: “We have returned to what feels like our Christmas home to reveal all the artwork we have been creating over the year. Having a unit at RVP enables us to reach a wider audience and hopefully helps people with their Christmas shopping too.

All the sales of our work go to the artists who created them.”

The shop will be open 10-6pm Monday to Saturday and 10.30-4.30 on Sundays.

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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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“We’re honoured to host this incredible collection of photos” A new photography exhibition, The Art of Reinvention, marks a new start for acclaimed rock photographer Pat Pope

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ollowing his survival of a cerebral stroke in 2018, local celebrity portrait photographer, Pat Pope, has been inspired to share his portfolio of work with the public.

Pat Pope is a renowned rock and portrait photographer who made his mark in the 1990s, capturing the rise of iconic bands like Suede, Oasis and The Prodigy. His work has graced the pages of Melody Maker, NME and Q Magazine, and he even fulfilled a lifelong dream by photographing his hero, David Bowie.

In a career spanning more than two decades, Pat has immortalised defining moments in music history, courtesy of his portraits of iconic artists such as Brett Anderson, Dido, and Morrissey. His work is also on display at the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Like his hero David Bowie, who was

CHANGES: Pat Pope photographed with the late David Bowie who he regularly worked with famous for his skill of reinventing himself - from The Thin White Duke to Ziggy Stardust - it is now time for Pat to create a new version of himself post the stroke he suffered six years ago.

The biggest impact of this, in addition to hemiplegia, has been aphasia*, which

means that Pat’s ability to speak and understand what others say to him has been severely affected. Nevertheless, the talented photographer has retained his artist’s eye and a rare ability to make connections with people. And so, to celebrate his past achievements, he

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

85 Images by Pat Pope

will carve a new role for himself as an exhibiting photographer.

“We are incredibly fortunate that his first exhibition will be held in Tunbridge Wells, his birthplace,” explains a spokesperson for Pat. “It is sponsored by the local charity, West Kent Different Strokes Peer Support Group, which helps him with his ongoing recovery thanks to their weekly neuro-physio exercise programme and a new programme starting in 2025, Conversation café.”

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“ In a career spanning more than two decades, Pat has immortalised defining moments in music

”

The team are working with Pat with the hope they can help him to rediscover his power of speech, which will allow him to tell his stories about meeting many famous musicians. In the meantime, his incredible portfolio speaks for him, by revealing his passion for rock music, his empathy with his subjects and his keen

artistic eye.

Pat Pope will take over the walls and exhibit prints from his portfolio in The Pantiles Bar and Café from 9th December 2024 until 12th January 2025. The exhibition will be able to view 7 days a week, from 9am 5.30 pm.

Lukas Barauskas, Co-Owner of The Pantiles Bar and Café comments: “We are honoured to host this incredible collection of photography. As a venue that has always had a passion for rock and pop photography, having the opportunity to showcase Pat’s photographic talent, and

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his ability to seem to get under the skin of each of his subjects, is a privilege.”

Prints will be available for purchase and can be delivered, as well as hard-back books, priced at £70 and paperbacks at £60. Or visitors can simply grab a coffee or lunch and the opportunity to view some of the most iconic rock portraits of the modern time. *It is a common after-effect, around a third of all people who experience stroke will live with communication difficulties (www.stroke. org.uk/stroke/effects/aphasia/communicationproblems)

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Celebrating more creative endeavours in our cultural community

Ahead of the Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star play taking place in the new Little Vic pop-up theatre in RVP next month, Simon Tait, tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine more about this fantastic production – and why Tunbridge Wells is so committed to being such a vibrant cultural hub…

T

heatre is all around us, and part of us. The word comes for the Greek ‘theatron’, which translates as ‘a place of seeing’, and we are certainly now seeing our dramatic entertainment in different places – not just conventional playhouses but public gardens, marquees, church crypts, building sites, even the living rooms of suburban homes.

It’s in our architecture, in our townscapes, even in the clothes we choose to wear. It’s in our shop window presentations, and in our shopping centres. It’s part of us and our communities. And none more so than in Royal Tunbridge Wells where an ambitious community project comes to fruition in December with the opening of a pop-up theatre, the Little Vic, with a new children’s show called Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star.

they are booming once again. Having discovered through the pandemic the power and possibilities in digital communication, they found new and younger audiences, and by going out into our neighbourhoods they confirmed the inherent love of dramatic entertainment that lies in all of us.

Nowhere is that truer than in Tunbridge Wells, and the Assembly Hall Theatre – owned and supported by the Borough Council - where a new approach to

Assembly Hall, in a town and county where culture is already seen as a key driver.

The re-imagining of the shopping centre Royal Victoria Place (RVP) as a community and social events venue where the Assembly Hall Theatre’s newest adventure will open in December is an example of the new thinking in which the creative economy comes into its own.

Named after a famous suffragette and

“

Theatre is all around us, and part of us. The word comes for the Greek ‘theatron’, which translates as a place of seeing

”

During the Covid pandemic there was serious doubt about some conventional theatres’ survival, beleaguered as they were when people obeyed the government’s strict “stay at home” rules, and both philanthropy and subsidy dwindled.

But not only did theatres survive,

programming and funding has seen its star rise again.

“Over the past couple of years the Assembly Hall has established and expanded its programming,” says artistic director Mikey Powell. “Increasing the number of performances presented throughout the year, with a balanced programme that does not dilute the audience, has seen the subsidy required to run the Assembly Hall significantly reduce.”

The theatre is now one of the top venues that comedians include on their tours, and attracts West End shows such as Six, which played to sell-out audiences earlier this year. Last year the Assembly Hall sold 100,000 tickets and had 33 sell-out shows.

According to UK Theatre, which represents regional and local venues, British theatre is an economic powerhouse, generating a turnover of £4.4bn a year and contributing £2.39bn in gross value added, employing over 200,000 people. It contributes to local economies through pubs and restaurants, so that for every £1 spent on a theatre ticket £1.40 is generated locally. Theatre operations also help local craftsmanship with their demand for props, materials and costumes.

Now, a spirit of adventure and experiment is driving the likes of the

local notable of a century ago, in 2022 The Amelia Scott opened as the town’s £20m new cultural hub. The museums, library and flexible performance venue also double as a municipal advice centre, which effectively means paying a council tax bill becomes a cultural event. It works in partnership with other operations in the town, such as the Assembly Hall, most notably when it hosts the majority of the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival.

Support for the creative professions, community groups and cultural institutions is also already part of the local ecosystem, guided by Creative Tunbridge Wells and its cultural economy strategy. Tunbridge Wells has the highest proportion of creative enterprises in Kent.

A key to the success of the policy has been the establishment of partnerships which came together two years ago for the reimagining of RVP covered shopping centre to turn it into a community and social events venue. This has been a great success, says the borough’s business director Lee Colyer.

“This has been made possible by bringing together the knowledge from across the town.”

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Another key has been the enthusiasm of local business sponsors.

The latest initiative in Tunbridge Wells is the opening of the ‘Little Vic’ in the heart of the community, in a space that previously housed a clothing shop. Its first show, Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star, is a multi-media production aimed at under-7s.

A sequel to last year’s children’s show, Little Owl and the Christmas Lights, which was presented at the Amelia Scott, the new production features puppetry by the Warhorse puppet designer Jimmy Grimes and local animator Simon Cossons. It’s the Assembly Hall’s venture onto stages new, a pop-up theatre in a non-arts space appealing to new audiences while increasing dwell-time in the shopping centre, testing the concept of theatre and retail co-existing.

And the local authority is delighted: “The council is committed to bringing new

and innovative activities into RVP,” said Cllr Justine Rutland, the cabinet member for economic development. “Creating attractions that will boost footfall and complement retail and hospitality businesses.”

The show has created partnership

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“

Access to culture contributes to the vibrancy of our town and so we’re extremely proud to help bring Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star to Royal Victoria Place this Christmas

”

opportunities with local business sponsors and charities, with the production and the affordable pricing made possible by a grant Arts Council England, and the support of partners such as the Royal Tunbridge Wells Together BID, Charcoalblue, RBC Brewin Dolphin and Maddison’s Residential, Visit Tunbridge Wells.

“Access to culture and shared experiences contributes so much to the vibrancy of our town and we’re extremely proud to help bring Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star to Royal Victoria Place this

Christmas,” said Maddisons’ managing partner Deborah Richards. “I know that this unique, charming, place-based show will thrill and delight local children and will be, for many, their first experience of live theatre. We are proud to be associated with such an initiative.”

And so, in brief, Mr Fox and his friends are helping the RVP become a Royal Victoria Place of seeing as well as shopping.

To book tickets to see Fearless Fox and the Christmas Star visit

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Live the good life at

LIMEKILN

Why bother going to London when you have the most stylish private venue to hire right on your doorstep? Let us introduce you to the gorgeously gilded world of LIMEKILN...

L

IMEKILN is an exclusive privatehire events space located in Eridge. Launched in April this year, it is already proving to be the go-to venue for those seeking a seriously special and stylish space for friends and family gatherings, creative pop-ups, press launches and celebratory occasions thanks to its stunning interiors, picturesque location and curated offerings to suit your every desire.

The private-hire lodge, which is set in 60 acres of ancient woodland in East Sussex, is now hosting a series of supper clubs - the first of which was with chef extraordinaire Conor Gadd from the legendary Italian restaurant Trullo who came down on November 14 to cook up a culinary storm. More culinary collaborations are set to be announced so watch this space...

LIMEKILN also regularly hosts many corporate and creative events, and is owned by the founders of Kin House, the

UK’s hottest social space.

At the heart of LIMEKILN is a beautiful white lodge, which boasts incredible Pierre Frey interiors, the exquisite work of many local artisans, a variety of function spaces and also a nine-hole golf course, making it the perfect retreat to get away from the hustle and bustle of every day life.

See you there? limekilnsussex.co.uk Insta: @limekilnsussex

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This private-hire lodge boasts Pierre Frey interiors and is set in 60 acres of ancient woodland in East Sussex

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This private-hire lodge boasts Pierre Frey interiors and is set in 60 acres of ancient woodland in East Sussex

ANTIQUES

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Christmas Festive Menu George and Dragon Festive Menu 2024 - 1st December - Christmas Eve 2 Courses - £39.50 3 Courses - £49.50

Starters

Mains

Desserts

Native Lobster Bisque, Rye Bay Brown Shrimp, Rouille, Charred Sourdough

Hay Roasted Sussex Turkey Crown, Duck Fat Potato Terrine, Sauteed Sprout Tops, Smoked Pancetta, Honey Glazed Sage & Walnut Stuffing, Pigs In Blankets, Spiced Bread Sauce, Cinnamon Cranberry Compote

G&D Christmas Pudding, Brandy Butter, Creme Anglase

The G&D Gambas Cocktail, Red Chili & Garlic Marie Rose, Little Gem, Smoked Paprika, Rye Bread Local Game & Armagnae Prune Terrine, Chilli & Tomato Chutney, Bitter Leaves, Toasted Sourdough Crispy Curried Beetroot & Red Onion Fritters, Shallot, Paprika & Capers Mayo, Wild Rocket Hot Smoked Salmon, Pickled Fennel, Candy Beetroot, Pink Grapefruit, Pea Shoots

Roast Eridge State Venison Steak, Rosemary & Smoked Garlic Potato Rosti, Charred Tenderstem, Thyme and Star Anise Roast Plums, Chianti Jus

Sloe Gin Champagne Jelly, Redcurrant, Lemon Tuile Bitter Chocolate & Praline Marquise, Clementine Compote, Creme Fraiche Spiced Pear and Apple Crumble, Oat & Wanut Topping, Vanilla Creme Anglaise

Pan Fried Wild Sea Bass Fillet, Carrot Puree, Braised Fennel, Safron Fondant Potato, Crab & Chive Brown Butter Rye Bay Monkfish Curry, Lime Leaves, Ginger, Coconut, Lemongrass Green Chili, Roast Peppers, Onion, Aromatic Basmati, Tomato, Cucumber & Coriander Salad, Charred Flatbread Oyster Mushroom, Leek & Brighton Blue Strudel, Spiced Butternut Squash Purree, Sauteed Sprouts, Toasted Cashews

bookings@ganddspeldhurst.com or Telephone 01892 338549 www.ganddspeldhurst.com

Selection of Sussex Cheese Board, G&D Date Chutney, Grapes and Artisan Crackers (£5 Cheese Supp)

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Support Network

Taylor-Made Dreams hosted its annual Titanium Circle & Community Awards Lunch last month with the charity’s patron comedian John Bishop once again overseeing proceedings. Read on to discover more about this very special day…

E

very year we hold a Taylor-Made Dreams (TMD) appreciation lunch for our corporate sponsors, to celebrate the amazing fundraising they have achieved, as well as to show them what their support has helped to create.

This year, we also held our bi-annual TMD Awards alongside the lunch, to not only thank our corporate sponsors, but to thank the wonderful members of our TMD community. This year, we were again joined by our fantastic patron, John Bishop, who gave a special thank you to everyone who attended, along with of course, a very funny speech and later a fantastic and special Q&A. Thanking TC members for their continued support, as well as our standout community members, is a vital part of our ongoing partnership. Their donations and fundraising work kept our services going through the pandemic and continue to allow us to provide services for families in the community. We are so grateful for each member and supporter, as without them, there is no Taylor-Made Dreams.

Every year we have so many amazing people we’d like to celebrate, and this year is no different. This year's TMD award winners: •

Our new Community Fundraising Committee: Lucy Cameron, Barrie

“

We were joined by our fantastic patron, comedian John Bishop, who gave a special thank you to everyone who attended as well as a funny speech and special Q&A

”

Williams, Lisa Wells, Philippa James & Neil Rust for their hard work setting up our new volunteer fundraising committee in Kent •

Ven Morgan of Ven Morgan Interiors, for her continued Ambassadorship, support through events and wishes

•

Neil Simmons of TN Recruits, for his continued Ambassadorship, pro-bono recruitment works as well as putting on multiple fundraisers

•

Michele, Our Sibling Support Service lead, who has worked so hard to continue the success of the growing service

•

Elsa Wall, who has become an amazing young Ambassador through her involvement with the Sibling Support Service

•

Studio 44, who designed and continue to host our website pro-bono, alongside Larry Hardcastle’s continued Ambassadorship and awareness raising

•

Sophie Forrest of Forrest HR, who has gone above and beyond, providing all of TMD’s HR services pro bono

•

Dave Richardson, our excellent corporate fundraiser, for his dedication and commitment over his first two years, expanding our

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“

Thanking Taylor-Made Dream’s Titanium Circle members for their continued support, as well as our standout community members, is a vital part of our ongoing partnership

”

Huntington family through their daughter Amelie, who we helped to fulfil multiple wishes before she sadly passed away.

The Huntington family have continued to raise funds and awareness for TMD, joining our Dragonboat race, running the Royal Parks Half marathon and a London cycle fundraiser. It is an honour to have fundraisers like them on board, supporting other families that are going through what they went themselves through.

Two final big thank yous alongside the awards go to no-id* for all of their pro-bono filming work over the years (including this event), and Rupert Simpson of Calverley Hamper Company, for kindly

Photography by David Harbord community and providing support wherever he can •

Nick Moore and Eileen Leahy from Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine. Both Nick and Eileen have provided a platform to raise awareness that is very hard to come by for smaller charities. Their continued support through this publication is truly wonderful

•

Tony and Judie Ellis, for their support and Innovation. They are currently working with our Sibling Support Service to create a voice-controlled dragonfly, that will be able to answer all of your TMD questions

•

Jordan Marsh is the MD of Canary Wharf Contractors, Proplant Scaffolding for his continued Ambassadorship, awareness raising activity and financial support towards the work of TMD

•

Geoff Baker MD of Centurion Warranties for not only supporting financially by being a TC member but also by gifting families experiences in the racing world

This year, the Taylor award, in honour of our charity’s namesake, goes to the Huntington family. We met the

donating a festive hamper to our Taylor award recipient, the Huntington family.

The Titanium Circle provides overwhelming support for the services we provide, expanding our Technology Loan Library through more interactive tables, providing the funds/connections to enable wishes and so much more. We couldn’t do what we do without them.

Your business can make a big difference for TMD families in your community, find out how you can get involved on our website: www.taylormadedreams.org.uk or by emailing us at: hello@taylormadedreams.org.uk

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Looking ahead…

We are excited to announce that Tim Sykes of Gardenproud is joining Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine as its resident horticultural expert. Here, the talented local garden designer will bring you a series of top gardening tips to help you keep your outside space in order…

CUTTING BACK: If you haven’t completed it already look to cut back the old stems of perennials, take care not to cut back too far as the stems can sometimes protect the new growth coming through from frosts etc.

WINTER PROTECTION: Check the long-range forecast and take steps to protect your plants. In 2022 we had a very severe winter with heavy frosts and snow, so remember in these conditions many so called hardy plants can fail. Other less hardy and tropical plants such as tree ferns need their crown protected with straw, and leaves plus trunk wrapped with fleece. Some other plants such as olive trees, and large shrubs such as Pittosporums, may also benefit from a fleece over winter, particularly if we have heavy frosts and snow forecast.

MULCH: a good mulch of bark, or wellrotted compost spread over your borders will help protect herbaceous plants over winter and add useful nutrients to the soil.

For further information and tips on gardening or garden design, please contact Tim Sykes at tim@ gardenproud.co.uk , or call on 07725 173820, or see him at www.gardenproud.co.uk

K

icking off our new gardening column I wanted to start by sharing my must-do list for November. From cutting back your leggy perennials and preparing a good mulch to getting your bulbs wishlist in check there’s some good advice for every level of gardener

BULBS: If you haven’t already ordered your spring bulbs, then it’s probably best to pop down to one of our local garden centres and make a selection - and get planting! We find it best to make a plan of where you aim to plant, then place the bulbs in large clumps for maximum effect.

It’s a good idea to take a note of the hole depth you need to plant in, for example for a bulb of 5cm diameter (eg an allium or tulip) then plant about 10cm- 15cm deep. Place the bulbs in the hole with their nose facing upwards. I always use a good general purpose compost around the bulb then backfill in the topsoil and compact it down.

LEAVES: If you have a lot and already have a composting system then you can use the mower on a higher setting and gather these up and deposit the clipped leaves in the compost. If you have some grass clippings to mix then this will help

“

Now cut back the old stems of perennials, but don’t cut back too far as the stems can sometimes protect the new growth coming through

”

break everything down. If you don’t have a compost then you can choose to set your mower to mulch and just mow the leaves into the lawn. It will look a bit unkempt for a couple of weeks then the leaves will break down and the remnants will work back into the soil. Once you’ve planted your bulbs you could choose to keep the leaves on the beds to break down over winter. This will help create a rich mulch and help retain moisture and feed your plants.

MOWING: Aim to make your final cut of the lawn this month, then clean your machine, and remember to book it in for a service and blade sharpen for 2025.

Kicking off his new Q&A series, Tim Sykes answers your gardening dilemmas and queries…

Q: Hi Tim can you please help us on an Autumn Gardening Question?

"What plants should we be looking to prune over this period ?” - Thank you, Regards Wendy A: Thank you Wendy. November is a great time to prune all your fruit bushes – think blackberries, gooseberries, redcurrants and raspberries - as this is their dormant period. To check out how then have a look at the Royal Horticultural’s official site (www.rhs.org.uk) or visit www. quickcrop.co.uk Other plants you might try and cut back now include Wisteria. Again check with RHS. But you can cut back all side stems pruned in the summer to 8-10cm, leaving 2 to 3 buds on each stem.

Tim will happily answer any of your questions and publish all interesting findings in his next column so feel free to email any questions to tim@gardenproud.co.uk

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

CONTACT US

01892 545400 www.TWPT.co.uk enquiries@twpt.co.uk

Curtains, soft furnishings, blinds and re-upholstery.

The Black & White Shop, Groombridge Appointments call 07957 811589

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Get your back on track Lucy Parker is the founder of Flow, the town’s most established yoga and wellbeing studio, which she runs with her husband Ben. Here the qualified senior yoga and meditation teacher who is also now a counsellor and coach, reveals why we should prioritise our spinal health – daily…

D

id you know that almost a million people across the UK are too sick to work because of their back pain and that two in every three people have back pain at some point?

With statistics like these, it’s a wonder we don’t have a better awareness of how to prevent backache and what to do when we suffer from a painful episode.

This is especially true as, in many cases, back pain is relatively easy to prevent and simple to treat.

Firstly, what is it? Well, the anatomy of our spines is complex, as required for the spine to play a central role in the

structure of our skeleton. There are three sections of our spine, or back. Firstly, the top seven vertebrae make up the inward, or secondary, curve of our neck, which supports the weight of our skull.

Then, the twelve vertebrae of our thoracic cavity, which, alongside the ribs, create a protective and flexible housing for the moving parts of our lungs and heart. Then, we have the five large

vertebrae of our lumbar or lower spine that feed into the pelvis and end at the tailbone. Together, all three sections of the spine work in harmony to allow articulation, range of motion, support and fluidity for the body, alongside offering a protective pathway for the spinal cord to flow up and down from the brain, carrying all important messages between brain and body.

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

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Back pain commonly occurs when one or more of these bony structures and their cushioned pads, or discs, are compromised, compressing or pinching the spinal cord and nervous

“

In her book, ‘Awakening the Spine’, yoga teacher Vanda Scaravelli says: “The function of the spine is to elongate, and in this elongation, its elasticity and youth are regained. It is not a battle against old age, but rather a bringing back to life those parts of the body which have been neglected for so long.”

”

systems carried within. Low back pain is widespread, with 80 out of 100 people in the UK suffering from it at some point.

The spine craves movemens to flow freely and articulate in the way it was

designed through differing movement patterns, including flexion, extension, and rotation. The structure is a stunningly beautiful piece of natural engineering that, when looked after, works perfectly well throughout our lives. That is if it’s taken good care of and not neglected through lack of care or attention.

You need to move and hydrate regularly to keep a strong and healthy spine. Sitting at your desk for hours on end or hunching over the steering wheel in traffic is no good.

To keep your back healthy, you need to offer it lots of care and attention, and we have just the thing here at Flow. Your back will thank you for some gentle, targeted stretching, strengthening and movement through guidance from a trained yoga teacher and a sensitive approach.

Worth the trip!

We have weekly classes to try, including a dedicated class for Beginners. You can also regularly visit the ‘floor doctor’; many find that simply surrendering to the floor's hard surface can work wonders!

If you’re already suffering from backache or have a more complex presentation, book in with Ben for some expert Osteopathy to help fix your current predicament and offer support, advice, and guidance about avoiding future episodes.

GET IN TOUCH: Lucy Parker, Senior Yoga Teacher, Counsellor & Coach Flow Tunbridge Wells www.flowtunbridgewells.com 07300 854328

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FEATURE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

“We aim to innovate, not follow beauty fads”

looking skin.”

Inesa adds that exciting developments in the industry include the introduction of polynucleotide-based hybrid dermal fillers and Profhilo.

“While traditional dermal fillers remain, the industry is shifting towards a holistic approach. I recommend skin boosters as essential during winter; reduced sunlight and lower water intake can dehydrate skin, making these boosters vital.”

Inesa reveals she has clients coming from all over the UK and even some from Europe to have her treatments because the quality is so good and because she is trained to the highest level.

“The beauty industry is rich with opportunities but demands unique skills and dedication. Our academy is designed to be inclusive, offering only Permanent Makeup courses.

We welcome young adults and those returning to the workforce or seeking financial independence.”

INEZ Beauty Clinic is run by Inesa Dargyte. Specialising in In the main clinic, Inesa’s aesthetics, permanent make-up and a variety of other quality colleagues assist her with the Inesa specialist treatments and also boasting a special training other treatments.

These include Dargyte dermal fillers, B-tox facials, skin academy, this award-winning business sees clients travel from all peels, lip augmentation, laser hair over the country and Europe to see Inesa and her expert therapists. removal, anti-wrinkle, advanced facials, Eileen Leahy meets the successful entrepreneur to discover why her laser treatment, to name but a few. beauty business is so revolutionary…

“Our team is dedicated to providing natural and aesthetic procedures, ensuring clients have access to caling the stairs of the Inez Beauty conducts small masterclasses, teaching comprehensive services—from simple Nano Art and Permanent Makeup Clinic and Training Academy, Hydra Facials to advanced treatments like techniques. which is located in the Pantiles Botox and cutting-edge laser techniques.”

“At Inez we focus on ethical beauty, and run by Inesa Dargyte, the Inesa says that most of her clients come providing credible and sustainable first thing you will notice is the huge to her courtesy of word of mouth – which treatments, and collaborate with likeamount of awards and certificates framed is ultimately the biggest compliment given minded business partners who share our on the walls. There’s recognition from vision. The Rise of Nano Brows represents the efficacy of the treatments speaks for some of the industry’s biggest players themselves. But she has, over the years, the latest technique in the permanent including The British Hair and Beauty also put a lot of work into her website and makeup industry but also allows me to Awards – for which Inesa has won Best social media where she shares a lot of her recreate natural brows, which often see Semi Permanent Make-Up Artist of the inspiring expert knowledge. me working with cancer and alopecia Year – and also her latest NVQ Level 7 Inesa says she is always pre-booked at patients. in Aesthetic Practice. Such impressive least four months in advance due to her “I’ve dedicated the last six years to plaudits mean that you know you are in expertise. becoming one of the best in this field, good hands as soon as you enter into this “We offer a lot in addition to our culminating in winning second place at very chic and welcoming clinic.

PMU including simple Hydra Facials the Wulop International Championship - a Inesa is a qualified Permanent Makeup to advanced treatments like Botox deeply humbling honour. These awards Master and Aesthetic Practitioner. She is and cutting-edge laser techniques. demonstrate the evolution of my career also a passionate educator and respected Our innovative B-Tox Facial combines from artist to mentor, educator, and judge.” industry judge. dermaplaning with a cocktail of over For someone who is gilded with so many “My goal has always been to give back 35 vitamins and amino acids, delivered qualifications and awards, it will come as and create amazing facilities where through microneedling. This treatment no surprise to learn that Inesa has worked women could experience top-level beauty addresses open pores, skin texture, and incredibly hard to get where she is today. treatments conducted by highly qualified But that, she says, is borne out of a personal scarring, reducing fine lines and imparting and in-demand professionals,” she a radiant, glass-like effect.” passion to educate herself and others. explains.

She adds: “It has taken a lot of hard work “We are known for our permanent “My mission is to empower the next for me to get to where I am now. At INEZ, makeup, but also our medical skincare, generation to surpass my achievements. we aim to be trendsetters and innovators, laser hair removal and aesthetics.

Determination is the key to success, and not followers of beauty fads.”

“Regenerative aesthetic medicine is a this belief has been my guiding light. I’ve 5 Sussex Mews, Lower Pantiles, key trend to watch,” she explains. “This always been driven by the desire to create Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QJ field focuses on rejuvenating the skin something meaningful, not just for myself Tel. 01892 769977 from within, enhancing the body’s natural but for others as well.” www.inezbeautyclinic.co.uk ability to repair and regenerate tissue, This dedication led Inesa to open Instagram: @inezbeautyclinic leading to healthier, more youthfula training academy where she now

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Come Relax, Restore, Rejuvenate… and take the stress off this Christmas.

Knowle Grange is the perfect retreat right on your doorstep.

Set in beautiful Victorian country gardens on the Kent and Sussex border between Tunbridge Wells and Wadhurst.

Knowle Grange provides a wide range of luxurious spa and beauty treatments, complemented by a licensed café serving delicious meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or an indulgent glass of fizz, there’s something for everyone.

With ample free parking, ensuring a stress-free experience, Knowle Grange welcomes all for beauty and spa treatments making for the perfect escape. Book in now for that ever essential Christmas beauty treatment and if you’re a TN4 card member*, you can claim 10% off any 60min or more treatment.

FREE PARKING | OPENING HOURS ARE: 9am to 5pm on Mon, Tue, Wed and Sat 9am to 7pm on Thursdays Tel. 01892 750055 E. enquiries@knowlegrange .co.uk Visit www.knowlegrange.co.uk *T&C’s apply. Not to be used in conjunction with other offers

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EXCLUSIVE SELECTION OF BEAUTY GIFT SETS THIS

Christmas • STOCKING FILLERS • CAUDALIE PRODUCT OFFERS • GIFT VOUCHERS

We have an exciting selection of Gift ideas, Beauty and Spa treatment offers PLUS the chance to enter our Caudalie Christmas Prize Draw.

Scan the QR to find out more.

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Go on a global adventure

B

The team at Tunbridge Wells-based holiday business Simply Luxury Escapes reveals why Black Friday is the best time for some amazing travel deals…

lack Friday isn't just for TVs, electronics, or fashion bargains - it has also become one of the most exciting times of the year for grabbing incredible travel deals.

Whether you're dreaming of a luxury escape to a tropical paradise, a city break, or even an adventurous tour, Black Friday offers travel lovers the perfect opportunity to turn those dreams into reality at a fraction of the cost.

Let’s be honest, we hear the word ‘sale’ bounced around constantly, and it’s easy to wonder - are they even real? In many cases, those so-called ‘sales’ are just recycled offers that don’t really provide much of a discount. But Black Friday is different. When it comes to travel, this is the one time of year where the discounts are real, the offers are limited, and the deals are genuinely worth snapping up.

Here are our top Black Friday offers for anyone planning their next getaway:

This is the“ one time of year where the travel discounts are real and genuinely worth snapping up

”

The BodyHoliday St Lucia Having been in Tunbridge Wells for a year now we know this hotel is popular so now is the time to book for the best prices.

Offer: Up to 40% off in 2025 Prices from: £3,350pp for 7 nights All Inclusive, with private transfers, Economy flights.

Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Barbados Fairmont Royal Pavilion is a prime example of why Barbados is so popular.

The hotel oozes class and elegance and it makes for the perfect west coast stay.

Offer: Up to 60% off in 2025!

Prices from: £2,605pp for 7 nights B&B, with private transfers, Economy flights.

Furaveri Maldives For those wanting to go to the Maldives in a 5* hotel at great prices this is the one for you!

Offer: Up to 45% off PLUS Free upgrade to All Inclusive in 2025!

Prices from: £2,330pp for 7 nights All Inclusive, with seaplane transfers, Economy flights.

Emerald Luxury Yacht Cruises Nothing beats the feeling of embarking on an epic luxury yacht cruise adventure with Emerald Cruises, where the sunkissed ports of the Mediterranean & Adriatic Sea, the Caribbean, and the Seychelles & Indian Ocean await.

Offer: Up to 25% off plus free drinks package & flights included Prices from: £3,874pp for a 7 night Mediterranean Cruise All Food & Drinks plus, Economy flights.

Visit Simply Luxury Escapes 7 London Road, Tunbridge Wells or head to www.simplyluxuryescapes.co.uk 01892 576777

THIS MONTH’S FEATURED ITINERARY: India- The Leela Palace Trail Delhi- Jaipur- Udaipur Experience the essence of India and the richness within, with an elevated multi day itinerary for an extraordinary journey…

Offer: Stay 2 nights in each location and receive: Upgrades to Premium Room Categories •

Royal Premier at New Delhi, Royal Villa with Plunge Pool at Jaipur & Grand Heritage Lake View at Udaipur.

•

Breakfast served in your room

•

Airport Transfers

•

Evening Cocktails & experiential dining once during trail.

•

Prices from: £2,740pp for 6 nights

•

B&B, with airport transfers, Economy flights.

STRIC

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

FROM CBBC

T LY S U P E R S TA R

ORE ODUBA

STEWART MCCHEYNE

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AWARD WINNING DAME

JAMES PEAKE

Sat 14– Tue 31 Dec

Tunbridge Wells | assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk AssemblyHallTheatre

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AssemblyHallTheatre

Skate

ON NO SAL W E !

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

festivetw.com | 01892 554441

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My Tunbridge Wells, Your Tunbridge Wells

Just roll with it

Get ready to roll down to the new Roller Disco at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre!

It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon of fun with great music, awesome lights, and plenty of space to skate. Taking place on Saturdays at 3pm, whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, you won’t want to miss this exciting weekly event!

from the zoo. A magical experience for all ages, based on Rod Campbell's bestselling book. Don’t miss it! Tickets and timings at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.ok

Light up your life

Time to see some Christmas lights? The Joy to the Wells Christmas Kick Off starts the ‘official’ festive season on Thursday, 14th November, from 4:30-7:00pm with the Big Lights Switch On, illuminating the town’s Christmas lights - including a brand-new display over the Opera House. Santa will lead a parade from the Opera House to the old High Street, accompanied by snow and festive songs, while elves hand out free chocolate coins and raffle tickets. The evening will conclude with an eight-minute firework display from Christ Church.

Keep dancing!

Animal magic

The beloved children's classic Dear Zoo is coming to the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on 12th and 13th November! Watch the story come to life with puppets, music, and audience interaction as a cheeky monkey, a jumpy frog, and a perfect puppy are delivered

Photograph: Mollie Manning

Clare Lush-Mansell from My Tunbridge Wells is your expert guide to all the fantastic events happening in and around the town every month.

Read on to discover her top pics for the rest of the month and into December…

Then, on Saturday, 16th November, Royal Victoria Place will be hosting a magical Christmas event featuring Strictly Come Dancing star Ore Oduba, who will join Santa to switch on the Christmas lights and continue the holiday celebrations! The event features Once Upon a Wish shows, Santa & his elves, The Absolute Gospel Choir, and The Rock Choir. Santa’s Grotto will be open from 10am-3pm and the switch-on with Santa and Ore Oduba takes place at 5pm. Enjoy extended shopping hours until 7pm!

Clare Lush-Mansell A giant leap

Trinity Theatre is bringing The Smartest Giant to Tunbridge Wells on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November. A heart-warming musical based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's bestselling book, the show follows George, the scruffiest giant in town, as he gets a new look but soon helps animals in need by giving away his clothes. With puppetry and music, this uplifting story of friendship is perfect for ages 2-8 and runs for 55 minutes. More info at www. trinitytheatre.net

Just for laughs

Comedy superstar John Bishop is coming to Tunbridge Wells on Sunday 17th November as part of his new tour, Back At It. After two years of TV presenting, acting, and podcasting, he’s returning to what he loves most: making people laugh.

Described as "a performer of rare

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natural charm" (★★★★★ Daily Telegraph), John is excited to hit the road again after successful gigs in New York and Ireland.

Don’t miss the chance to see him live and experience the laughter in our very own Tunbridge Wells. Tickets available at www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Market value

Join Hospice in the Weald for a magical Christmas Market on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th November 2024. The gardens will transform into a festive wonderland with outdoor stalls offering a delightful Christmas shopping experience.

Entry is a suggested donation of £5 at the door and parking is available at nearby Pippins Farm.

Visitors can enjoy live performances from local musicians, sip mulled wine, and meet Father Christmas. Don’t miss the wreath-making workshops to add a personal touch to your holiday décor.

drinks court with a variety of tasty treats, including a marshmallow toasting station. The Christmas Village offers delicious alpine food and drinks from 3pm to 8pm on weekdays and 10am to 9pm on weekends. Explore market stalls featuring unique gifts from local traders, open Thursdays to Sundays until 15th December and daily from 16th to 23rd December.

An illuminating experience

Experience the festive magic at Tonbridge Christmas Village and Illuminate Christmas Lights, both set in the historic Tonbridge Castle grounds from 24th November to 29th December.

Illuminate features a stunning new light trail and an expanded food and

Worth the trip Experience the magic of Christmas at Winterland, returning to Bluewater from 9th November to 12th January.

Enjoy thrilling rides, classic bumper cars, a double-deck carousel, and

breathtaking views from the 40-metre Observation Wheel. Perfect for family fun or a festive outing and a good way to squeeze some more Christmas shopping in too?

Seasonal splendour

The Ice That Nearly Cancelled Christmas! is a mini panto at Penshurst Place from 7th to 23rd December, performed in the charming Baron's Hall. Join Mother Christmas, her Head Elf, and a special visitor in a festive tale filled with songs and laughter. When the Ice Queen freezes the North Pole Elves, it’s up to Father Christmas to save Christmas! Each performance lasts about 25 minutes, with a photo opportunity with Father Christmas afterwards. All in a stunning setting…

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS THIS CHRISTMAS SEE OUR FESTIVE SPECIAL ON PAGES Xx AND xx

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

THIS SPORTING LIFE Range Rover Sport forms a powerful on-screen partnership with British actor and producer Theo James who is the new face of the brand’s latest campaign for its luxury sporting SUV…

R

ange Rover conceptualises the notion of unmistakable he notion of unmistakable Britishness in its latest campaign for the new Range Rover Sport, which features actor and producer Theo James, alongside a cast of pedigree pets and thoroughbreds, set within the grounds of a quintessentially British manor house.

Range Rover Sport – the most dynamic vehicle in the Range Rover line-up – displays its sporting luxury credentials in the campaign, on our TV screens now, driven by James across the vast estate’s varying terrain, including up a challenging set of stone steps and across an ornate giant chessboard. The vehicle features a striking Velocity Blue exterior, which is now available to clients to select, in a demonstration of sporting thrills and attitude which is designed to celebrate Range Rover’s position as the leader in modern luxury.

Range Rover Sport delivers assertive power with responsive sporting performance and commanding allterrain capability, available with a range of mild and plug-in electric hybrids. A suite of technologies ensures its place

“

The Range Rover Sport redefines sporting luxury by seamlessly merging powerful and intuitive on-road performance with peerless refinement, advanced design, and connectivity

”

as the performance champion, such as adjustable dynamic air suspension for responsive, dynamic and composed handling, torque vectoring, adaptive dynamics and dynamic launch.

Theo James is an accomplished actor who has most recently starred in Netflix’s ‘The Gentleman’ and The White Lotus: Sicily’. This breakout performance earned him an Emmy Award nomination.

Production for his new Range Rover ad took place at the Harewood House country estate in West Yorkshire – where heritage meets modern sophistication.

In this setting, Range Rover created contemporary surprise through curious storytelling; from manoeuvring around 10-foot chess pieces and abstract sculptures, to negotiating a series of tightly controlled turns to the astonishment of onlookers – a pair of delightfully inquisitive alpacas.

Equipped with the Range Rover Sport, James portrays himself in this creative production, confidently descending valleys and deftly accelerating across the estate’s diverse terrains.

In a stirring scene, a dressage horse and rider gallop through the morning mist, with James catching glimpses of them in

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

the driver’s side-view mirror – a nod to Range Rover Sport’s precise handling and agile presence. Overlaying the production is a spirited game of chase reimagined

by Range Rover where James’ loyal Irish Wolfhound awaits his imminent return, with a ball in hand.

Geraldine Ingham, Global Managing Director, Range Rover said: “Range Rover Sport is dramatic, visceral and

uncompromising – a British luxury sports SUV with attitude.

“The Range Rover Sport line-up offers clients a breadth of capability unlike any other – dynamically peerless on-road, with the confidence to go-anywhere and built in from over 70 years of off-road innovation. The campaign sees Theo drive the Range Rover Sport Autobiography in Velocity Blue across a British estate, in a

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tongue-in-cheek production with a hint of Range Rover’s British humour which we hope will resonate with our audiences globally.”

Theo James added: “The Range Rover Sport epitomises incredible British design with unrivalled driving capability. Combine that with a plug-in electric hybrid engine that gives me 50 miles of electric range with zero carbon emissions and enough space to squeeze my unruly family into and we have a clear winner.”

The Range Rover Sport redefines sporting luxury by seamlessly merging powerful and intuitive on-road performance with peerless refinement, advanced design, and connectivity that define the Range Rover experience. Now in its third generation, this model is the most desirable, technologically advanced and dynamically capable yet, featuring the added benefit of electric hybrid power for enhanced efficiency and versatility.

To find out more or to book a test drive of the new Range Rover Sport please contact Stratstone Land Rover Tonbridge 01732 913341 www.stratstone.com

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“The children are in charge at Kidsbury”

built with the future of our planet in mind and educating the next generation about sustainability, tolerance and kindness.

Tarragon: To be honest, the name was just stumbled upon as we were throwing around ideas. Actually, just a couple of days ago we found an early version of the logo with ‘Kidtropolis’ as the title! We wanted to create something that was both memorable and conjured the idea of a town.

Sean: We love it now and it’s a brand we think we can really build around.

“

It was important to us that each space had a clear educational goal. So that was a big part of the development and something we kept in mind all the way through the process

”

Sean and Tarragon Turner are the CEO and Managing Director of the new Kidsbury role-play village located in Royal Victoria Place.

Since its launch in September, the eco-friendly space has proved to be a huge success attracting visitors far and wide. Here the duo tell Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine what gave them the idea to launch this fun and interactive world of imaginative play for young children and reveal their plans for the future…

So Tarragon and Sean, let's start at the beginning. How and why did you come up with the concept for Kidsbury?

Tarragon: We took our daughter for a day out at another role play village and the kids were having such a great time. It was clear that they were learning so much and engaging in imaginative worlds.

Sean: And basically, we thought we could do it better! Our slogan is Be Curious…

Tarragon: Well, we thought it was a great concept but perhaps there was room for a more modern and sustainable approach.

And that there was a gap in the market for this type of activity here in Tunbridge Wells.

Have you had any profesional experience in this area before?

Sean: No but we both have a background in the creative arts and so we’re really passionate about imaginative play and this seemed like an amazing

opportunity to harness some of our skills and share them with others. Our daughter has been a real inspiration and so we’ve tried to create everything with her enjoyment in mind. It’s helped us be really ‘kid-centric’.

Tarragon: But we also really wanted to create a space that adults could enjoy.

One of the nicest things people have been saying to us since opening is that they can tell it’s been created by parents.

Sean: We’ve tried really hard to think of everything! You know, examining every element to make it the best it can be.

Want to be Michelin-level role play!

Can you explain what the offering is all about and how you came up with the name?

Sean: Kidsbury is a modern play space where children are in charge. It has twelve play zones that are tailored to mimic real-world responsibilities. It’s a world

Please can you tell us about the different zones at Kidsbury?

Tarragon: There’s twelve zones that surround a ‘town square’. There’s classics like a post office and doctors’ surgery but also some more unique offerings like a garden centre, recycling plant and a dance studio.

Sean: It was so much fun coming up with all the rooms and there are so many more that we want to explore in future villages.

Tarragon: It was important to us that each space had a clear educational goal.

So that was a big part of the development and something we kept in mind all the way through the process.

Sean: And obviously, everything is made from wood and other sustainable materials. All of the play spaces have been hand-built using highly renewable maple wood and the toys have been really carefully sourced.

Tarragon: And we also have a lovely cosy cafe that’s open all day for drinks and snacks. We’re opening a curated gift shop for the Christmas period too.

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You're based in Royal Victoria Place.

How did this partnership happen and where will we find you?

Tarragon: As parents ourselves, we know how stressful these things can be sometimes and we were really keen to remove some of those obstacles. At Royal Victoria Place we have a great town centre location, ample parking, great facilities, lovely places to eat before or after and you know it’s a safe and welcoming environment.

Sean: Nicky Blanchard and the team at RVP have been so welcoming and

supportive right from the first moment I came to her with this hare-brained scheme! I think we’re a really great addition to the shopping centre and they seem to agree…

Tarragon: You can find us on the lower mall next to Fenwick.

Sean: And right by the street level entrance on Goods Station Road so super convenient for prams. (Use level 4 of the car park for a step-free journey to Kidsbury).

What do you think children (and parents) gain from a trip to Kidsbury?

Sean: Children learn by modelling the world around them. When they makebelieve they are really doing research and development. Rehearsing different aspects of the social world in a safe environment; one that allows them space for emotional expression. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes through role play helps to develop vital soft skills like empathy, negotiating and social awareness.

Tarragon: It’s really a great chance to connect with your kids, in a world that they run, somewhere they can make the rules for you!

Is there anything similar to this in the local area?

Sean: Not really, there is a role-play centre in Sevenoaks but nothing closer.

We are confident our space is a million times more engaging, clean, modern and inviting than other similar centres.

If not, where are you seeing clients come from outside TW? Tarragon: We’ve had visitors from across Kent and Sussex. There are lots of people travelling in from Maidstone, Ashford, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Uckfield and other areas. It’s really humbling that people are willing to travel to come and play with us.

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Tarragon: People keep telling us there’s too much to do in one session. Which is a good thing!

Were any local companies involved in creating Kidsbury?

Sean: It’s been very much a family affair!

We did most of the design and build ourselves with lots help from Tarragon’s family. The timber was cut but a great company in Bells Yews Green called All CNC. Tarragon: Now that we’re up and running we’re starting to collaborate with local companies like the Tunbridge Wells Coffee Roastery.

“

With Kidsbury we’ve tried really hard to think of everything! You know, examining every element to make it the best it can be.

We want to be Michelinlevel role play!

”

Are there any Kidsbury zones that are more popular than others?

Sean: Not really, we kind of thought there would be but different kids love different things.

Tarragon: The supermarket always seems to be a favourite, and the ice cream truck. It really depends on the kid though, some want to run around every space and really explore, some create intricate narratives and love to act them out.

Sean: And some will just spend the whole session in one space making a beautiful flower arrangement or something! Every child will find something they love.

What exciting things do you have planned for Christmas and beyond?

Tarragon: We can’t wait to decorate the village. We’ve always been really excited about doing a Christmas lights switch on and that’s on sale now for Dec 4th.

Sean: We’re doing a pop-up gift shop where you’ll be able to buy some of the favourite toys from the village alongside some other lovely gifts.

Tarragon: We’ve got a couple more tricks up our sleeve too.

Are there any plans to develop the Kidsbury brand elsewhere?

Sean: Right now, our focus is making Tunbridge Wells the best it can possible be and developing a really strong community here. But, yes absolutely. We hope to build a few more villages in the coming years and eventually build a really respected brand. kidsburyplay.com

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P2 Becomes Three

Camden Road barbers The P2 Collective are building on their success with a new team member

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ndependent Tunbridge Wells Barbers, The P2 Collective are expanding as experienced and creative Harley Williams joins their team.

Harley’s passion for men’s hair began at the age of 16 when he started his apprenticeship in Crowborough.

Over three years, he honed his skills and built a loyal clientele, developing a deep understanding of men’s grooming and styling.

Harley Williams

Driven by a desire to expand his horizons, Harley travelled to Australia, where he worked in several top barbershops, immersing himself in the Australian hair scene and further sharpening his expertise.

After a year and a half of traveling and exploring different styles and techniques, Harley felt it was time to return home and focus on growing his career in the UK. That’s when he found his place with us at P2 Collective. With four years of professional experience under his belt, Harley brings both a wealth of knowledge and fresh global perspectives.

“He’s eager to continue building his clientele and contribute to the growth of P2. Whether it’s a classic cut or a modern style, Harley is committed to delivering top-quality service to every client, every time.

“We’re excited to have Harley on board as we continue to evolve and expand the P2 Collective.”

For bookings : www.thep2collective.co.uk