Issuu

BUSINESS OCTOBER 2026

MAGAZINE

Work, connect, thrive Meet the team at Projects who are opening their pioneering new coworking space in Tunbridge Wells

TW EDIT 6 October 202

th e

●

property

near Bridge Place

, Kent Canterbury

l ● lifestyle dining ● trave

Patience is a virtue

THE PIG- at

GUST 2026

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

tells of Squerryes te's new Henry Warde the wine esta e us all about ring Patienc premium offe

H A LENS Read LIFE THROUG grapher Steve Celebrity photo with the A list on working

TREASURES EARTHLY Gardenproud on

Tim Sykes of purpose nably and with gardening sustai

G TIVE FEASTIN

FES idge Wells’ some of Tunbr We showcase menus us seasonal most delicio

AUTUMN STATEMENT

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

A TASTE OF THE GOOD LIFE

Our industry experts reveal what they want from the Chancellor

We take an exclusive tour around Paramount Place with RVG

The Pig is coming to town and they tell us all about it

In this month’s TW Edit...

dining ● property ● interiors ● gardening ● health & wellbeing ● design ● travel ● events ● food & drink

INSIDE FRONT COVER

• Specialists in loft conversions, mansard roofs & commercial to residential conversions At Spencer Charles Construction, we believe every property has potential. From clever conversions and extensions to complete renovations and developments, we focus on making the very best use of your space. Combining quality craftsmanship with thoughtful design, we take your ideas from concept to completion - creating spaces that look exceptional, work beautifully and are built to last.

• Commercial refurbishments & shop fitting • Extensions • New builds • Annexes & garage conversions • Home offices, garden rooms & gyms • Swimming pools & pool houses • Outdoor kitchens & entertainment areas • Landscaping, patios and decking • Kitchens & bathrooms • Bespoke carpentry

Tunbridge Wells 01892 322198 Sevenoaks 01732 387198

www.spencercharlesgroup.com 34 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5TN

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Welcome

TUNBRIDGE WELLS

BUSINESS OCTOBER 2026

MAGAZINE

Work, connect, thrive Meet the team at Projects who are opening their pioneering new coworking space in Tunbridge Wells

T W E D IT October 2026

the

dining ● travel

●

● lifestyle property

of the the plans one We discover celebrated boutique country’s most for Tunbridge Wells has hotel brands

ABOVE

A GLASS

RAISE raises a glass James Viner red Wine expert Vineyard’s first to Stopham

BUILDING ON SUCCESS

A TASTE OF THE GOOD LIFE

We take an exclusive tour around Paramount Place with RVG

The Pig is coming to town and they tell us all about it

In this month’s TW Edit...

A Pig on s the Pantile A CUT hair Staple, acclaimed Meet Laurel pedigree world class stylist with a

AUTUMN STATEMENT Our industry experts reveal what they want from the Chancellor

PROPERTY

HOT in the know from those All the latest buy and when where you should

dining ● property ● interiors ● gardening ● health & wellbeing ● design ● travel ● events ● food & drink

EDITOR

Eileen Leahy

DESIGN MANAGER Jason Stubbs

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Robin Singer

PHOTOGRAPHY John Knight

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER George Percy

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Nick Moore

his month, we have another great edition for you! Firstly, let’s talk about our cover stars – the brilliant team from Projects, a fantastic new co-working space that’s just opened on Crescent Road. This stunning, design-led space boasts four storeys of workspaces and is sure to inspire any freelancer, entrepreneur or SME. It’s simply amazing – think statement lighting, funky chairs, muted natural colour tones and state-of-the-art technology throughout the building. There’s even a Stretch Studio, where members can enjoy free yoga and Pilates classes, alongside cool breakout areas for when you need to take some time out. Congratulations to the whole team at Projects – this is going to be an exceptional addition to our business community in Tunbridge Wells. With the Autumn Statement just around the corner, we’ve called on our panel of experts to tell us what they would like to see the new Chancellor, John Healey, deliver. In an ever-changing economic climate, understanding the implications of government policy has never been more important. There’s plenty to look forward to locally, too. One event to have in your diary is the Brilliant Business Show, which takes place at the Assembly Hall on 5 November. Organised by entrepreneur and podcaster Nick Bryant, it brings together a wealth of businesses and provides a valuable opportunity to make connections, exchange ideas and celebrate the talent and ambition in our town and borough. We’re also pleased to feature an interview with the Law Society’s

President, Jenna Hunter, and Vice President, Ashley Scriven. The pair share their perspectives on the legal profession, explain why good connections should never be underestimated and provide information on how practising lawyers can become part of the organisation. And then, of course, there’s our brilliant lifestyle supplement, TW Edit. Alongside all your usual features on property, gardening, events and travel, I’m delighted to say we also have a lovely chat with the team from THE PIG. They’ve given us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at their exciting plans for their new premises on The Pantiles. It’s worth remembering that we’re the only local publication they’ve chosen to share all their updates with, so keep an eye on our social media channels and future editions for more exclusive news! Happy reading! Eileen Leahy Editor, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine

eileen@twbusinessmagazine.com www.twbusinessmagazine.com @twbusiness_magazine

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is published by JJL Media & Marketing Ltd, Head Office, High Street, Cross in Hand, East Sussex, TN21 0SR. Registration no: 15546231 For enquiries please email hello@twbusinessmagazine.com or call 01892 574474 www.twbusinessmagazine.com © 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.

OCT 2026

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Contents Latest News: All the latest local news from Tunbridge Wells

County News: A look at what’s happening across the county

Legal News: The latest news from our local legal landscape

Award-Winning: The Love Where We Live Awards are back

Working on It: Take a tour around the Projects co-working space

Autumn Statement: Our experts on what the Chancellor should prioritise

20 26

Brilliant Business Show: We talk to Nick Bryant ahead of his event

Legal Eagles: We meet Jenna Hunter and Ashley Scriven of TWTDLS

New Beginnings: Come on an exclusive tour of Paramount Place

experts

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

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...

Shaun Joubert

Sarah Raine

Senior Partner, NFU Mutual

Director, Colley Raine & Associates

Iain Larkins

Kate Rayner

Partner, Cripps

Head of Family Law, Thomas Mansfield

Sophie Forrest-Lavery

Gavin Marsh

Mustafa Sidki

Nick Gabay

Clare Meakins

Neil Simmons

Andrew Metcalf

Claudia Yorath

Managing Director, Maxim PR

Brightstar Law

Christian Mills

Caroline Weiss-Jones

Stuart Clark

Partner, Thomas Mansfield

Gemma Farina

Managing Director, GFHR Consulting

Founder The Forrest Group

Partner, Thackray Williams

Katie Gillam

Partner Cooper Burnett

Alex Green

CEO, RTW Together

Co-Founder The Diamond Setter

Branch Manager, Ashdown Travel

Founder, DCA International

Mickey Powell

Assembly Hall Theatre

Solicitor, Thackray Williams

ManagingDirector, TN Recruits

Director, BDHL

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Business community backs plans for Royal Victoria Place A

lex Green, chief executive of RTW Together BID, has praised Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s approach to Royal Victoria Place (RVP), saying continued investment in the shopping centre will be crucial to the future prosperity of the town centre. In an open letter, Mr Green welcomed plans to further develop RVP, including a new leisure offering, hospitality spaces and a boutique cinema. He said RVP plays a central role in Tunbridge Wells’ retail economy, acting as a major anchor for the town centre and helping to attract visitors from across the wider area. However, the centre has faced significant challenges over the past 25 years, including competition from Bluewater, increased retail provision at North Farm, the shift towards online shopping and wider economic pressures, compounded by the impact of the Covid pandemic. Mr Green warned that declining footfall and increasing vacancies risk creating a downward spiral, with consequences for the wider town. “When facing threats, the worst thing that can be done is to do nothing. Therefore, we were pleased by the decisive action of TWBC to acquire the long leasehold and secure it for the town,” he said. He added that the council’s intervention had helped protect the centre from the possibility of alternative redevelopment that could have harmed the wider town centre economy. Since the council acquired the leasehold, new operators, including Primark and

“We were pleased by the decisive action of TWBC to acquire the long leasehold of RVP and secure it for the town.” Nando’s, have been attracted to the town, while major retailers, including Fenwick and M&S, have been retained. The council has also reported an increase of 1.2 million in footfall. Mr Green and his colleagues believe further investment could build on this progress, particularly through the proposed leisure and hospitality developments. RTW Together BID has also urged the leaders of the different political groups on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to continue working together to progress the plans, describing the project as a significant opportunity for the town’s longterm future.

While acknowledging that a project of this scale carries risks, Mr Green said it offered an opportunity to improve the council’s financial return from RVP while supporting local businesses and attracting more visitors. The comments come as the future of the town centre remains a key concern for local businesses, with RVP continuing to be one of its most significant commercial assets. In closing, Mr Green added: “Finally, whilst separate from my role as CEO of RTW Together BID, as a long-term resident who is very excited by the scheme, I’d like to add that, whilst there have been some concerns raised about the project, I would suggest they represent a relatively small minority, with the majority of local residents being excited to see this investment in the town, which will help it become more vibrant and prosperous.”

Creative endeavours return

collective of Kent artists and makers is bringing its distinctive blend of handmade art and original gifts back to Royal Victoria Place (RVP) in Tunbridge Wells for the festive season. TWellsCreative Arts has opened a popup gallery and shop at RVP, running until 8 January 2027. The space showcases work by a diverse group of local creatives working across a range of artistic disciplines. Visitors can browse an eclectic collection of handmade pieces, including paintings, illustrations, ceramic sculptures, fused glass creations and wearable textile art. Established six years ago, the collective

brings together artists from across Kent, providing a platform for members to share their work, exchange ideas and inspire one another to explore new creative possibilities. The RVP space also serves as a

community art hub, giving shoppers the opportunity to meet the makers, discover the stories behind their work and learn more about their individual artistic journeys. With Christmas approaching, the gallery offers an alternative to conventional high-street shopping, with original gifts and distinctive pieces for the home that celebrate local talent and craftsmanship. TWellsCreative Arts is located on the lower ground floor of Royal Victoria Place, next to the Marks & Spencer food hall entrance. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Your Trusted Solicitors in Tunbridge Wells

Kate Rayner Head of Family Law

Emma Howlett Head of Wills & Probate

Allex Kiernan Head of Employment Law

Riah Sattar 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

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

South East Water chief urged Rencraft enjoys to deliver urgent improvements double celebration

outh East Water’s new chief executive, John Halsall, has been urged to deliver urgent improvements to the company’s infrastructure, customer service and communications following repeated water outages affecting Tunbridge Wells residents. At a round-table meeting hosted by Mike Martin MP, local residents registered on the company’s Priority Services Register shared their experiences with Mr Halsall. They highlighted the physical and emotional toll of repeated disruptions, including outages in the town this year and before Christmas last year. Mr Martin said the meeting was organised to ensure the new chief executive understood the impact of water supply failures and poor communication on vulnerable residents and the wider community. Following the discussion, Mr Martin said he felt ‘optimistic’ that the company’s new leadership recognised the scale of the problems and the need for practical solutions. The meeting also covered an infrastructure resilience plan for Pembury Water Treatment Works and the

JOHN HALSALL Performance Improvement Plan imposed on South East Water by industry regulator Ofwat. According to the meeting organiser, Mr Halsall acknowledged the scale of investment required to improve the resilience of the local water network and prevent further outages. The meeting comes amid mounting pressure on South East Water to improve its performance following repeated supply interruptions across its network. Mr Halsall is expected to provide a costed plan, with timescales, for infrastructure upgrades in the Tunbridge Wells area in the coming weeks.

Law that moves with you Built for business. Trusted for life. From boardroom decisions to life’s milestones, we protect what matters — now and for the future. Scan to secure your future today www.ts-p.co.uk 01892 510000

Renowned kitchen specialists Rencraft recently hosted a double celebration at their Calverley Road showroom in Tunbridge Wells, marking managing director John Stephens’ 40 years with the business alongside a major national award win. Around 100 guests, including longstanding clients, colleagues and friends, gathered to celebrate Mr Stephens’ remarkable four-decade journey with the company. He began his career at the age of 18 in the company’s spray shop on Chart Farm before going on to become managing director and owner. The evening also celebrated Rencraft winning the prestigious national ‘KBB Kitchen Showroom of the Year’ award for the second time in just three years. Reflecting on the milestone, Mr Stephens said: “To look around the room and see so many faces who have been part of this 40-year journey was very special. Winning the KBB award again is the icing on the cake. It is a testament to the hard work of the entire team at Rencraft and the incredibly loyal family that supports us.”

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

NEWS

www.brilliantbusinesses.biz Thursday 5th November. 10am to 3pm Assembly Hall Theatre. Tunbridge Wells

COUNTY NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Government puts the brakes on break up of Kent councils After the Government’s decision to pause Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Kent and Medway, Andrew Metcalf, Managing Director of Tunbridge Wells-based PR and public affairs agency Maxim, considers what the delay means for business – and what must happen next…

or many business leaders their focus is on the day-to-day running of their companies, with little interest in the fabric of how local government operates. However, the whole issue of Local Government Reorganisation, if it still happens, will impact every individual, business and community. After finally agreeing to have four unitary councils to cover all of Kent and Medway, the Government’s decision to pause it came as a total shock. Considerable political and staff time, public money and organisational effort had gone into proposals to merge 14 councils into four. However, for business the greater concern is not the structure itself: it is the uncertainty created by delay, and the risk that Kent and Medway also misses out on the bigger prize of meaningful devolution – in short, cash.

“

The danger is that delay becomes drift. If Kent and Medway are being asked to wait, the reward must be worth it A NATIONAL ECONOMIC ASSET

With around 1.9 million people, Kent and Medway is larger than many existing mayoral combined authorities. It is the UK’s gateway to Europe, hosts nationally important transport infrastructure and growth corridors, and has a central role in housing, logistics, renewable energy and trade. Yet the area remains in a holding pattern while competitors gain devolved powers, funding influence and a clearer platform from which to attract investment.

BUSINESSES NEED CERTAINTY

Investment decisions are made globally and capital is mobile. Businesses considering locating in Kent need confidence that sites will be supported by transport, utilities, housing and skills. Existing employers need to know that infrastructure and workforce planning will

keep pace with growth. Local authorities need a stable framework for long-term decisions. A prolonged pause weakens that confidence, delays projects and makes it easier for other regions to secure investment and talent.

MAKE THE PAUSE COUNT

The pause can still become an opportunity if it produces a faster route to a directly elected Mayor and an ambitious devolution deal. A Strategic Mayoral Authority could align planning, infrastructure, housing, skills and transport under one economic vision, provide a stronger voice in Whitehall and retain a countywide approach to inward investment and tourism. That would help Kent tell a more compelling story about what a more productive, better-connected county contributes to the UK. The danger is that delay becomes drift. Public and business engagement will fade if leaders continue debating structures without visible progress. With a General Election due by 2029, the window for reform is finite. The Government must therefore provide a

firm commitment to the mayoral model, a credible timetable and a package of powers that reflects Kent and Medway’s national economic importance. The worst outcome would be delayed reorganisation followed by little or no meaningful devolution: a new structure without new powers. If Kent and Medway are being asked to wait, the reward must be worth it. Business needs clarity now, because every month of uncertainty is another month in which investment, jobs and growth can go elsewhere. Today’s pause must become tomorrow’s springboard – not an excuse for inaction. Andrew Metcalf is also Chair of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of the Kent & Medway Economic Partnership.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Family Mediation vs Court Proceedings: Costs, Speed and Outcomes through a court-approved consent order, a straightforward and relatively low-cost step. A court order is immediately binding and enforceable, with a child’s welfare paramount. However, a judge controls the outcome. Jointly reached agreements are often better understood and followed, especially by co-parents.

Yashin Masoliver Head of Family Berry & Lamberts Solicitors

hen a relationship ends, separating couples may need help resolving arrangements for children or finances. Understanding how mediation and court differ in cost, speed and outcomes can save money, time and stress.

When court is the right route

Two very different routes

Family mediation is voluntary and confidential. An independent mediator helps you and your ex-partner agree arrangements for children, property or money without imposing a decision. In court proceedings, a judge considers the evidence and, if you cannot agree, makes a legally binding decision, taking the outcome out of your hands. The required first step Before applying to court for most child or financial orders, you must usually attend a Mediation Information and

Assessment Meeting (MIAM). Mediation is not compulsory. At the MIAM, a mediator explains non-court options, assesses suitability and helps you decide whether to proceed. Exemptions include domestic abuse, genuine urgency, child protection involvement or an agreement that only needs approval.

Cost

Current court fees include £270 for a child arrangements, specific issue or prohibited steps order, £321 for a financial order other than by consent, £62 for a financial consent order, and £628 for a separate divorce or dissolution application. Depending on your income and capital resources, you may not have to pay. Application fees are usually only a small

part of the cost. Legal representation, expert reports and several hearings can result in each person paying thousands of pounds. Mediation is generally quicker and cheaper, although fees vary. Getting legal advice can clarify the available finances and help you approach negotiations confidently. The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme may provide up to £500 per family for mediation involving children. It is not means-tested and excludes the MIAM. Legal aid may cover the MIAM and mediation for eligible people; court representation is funded only in limited cases, mainly involving domestic abuse or risk to a child.

Mediation is not suitable for everyone. Court may be necessary where there is domestic abuse, risk to a child, urgency, unwillingness to engage or concerns about financial disclosure. Since April 2024, the family court may consider an unreasonable refusal to explore non-court options when deciding costs. Mediation requires both parties’ agreement and the mediator’s approval. It may not succeed but is worth considering where resolution is realistic.

Where to go from here

Speed

Court is slower because hearing dates are limited. GOV.UK advises that a court order usually takes around ten months, with complex disputes taking longer. Mediation can often be completed within weeks or a few months, depending on both people’s willingness to engage. Control and outcomes In mediation, you and your ex-partner shape the outcome, but the agreement is not automatically binding. A financial agreement is usually made enforceable

The best route depends on the dispute, communication and safety concerns. Mediation is often quicker, cheaper and less confrontational, but court may be necessary. We can advise on the right route and help with a MIAM, voucher or court application. Our initial fixed-fee appointment costs £120 plus VAT and lasts around 60–90 minutes, allowing you to discuss the best option with a solicitor.

www.berryandlamberts.co.uk

LEGAL NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Thackray Williams builds success with increased instructions and new joiners

hackray Williams has reported significant growth in its Court of Protection work while welcoming five new colleagues across its real estate and compliance teams. Fee income for Court of Protection work is projected to be up 200 per cent on the last financial year, following the appointment of Private Client team head Elliot Lewis to one of a select group of court-appointed panel deputies who can be assigned by the courts to represent people who lack capacity to make financial decisions. “Elliot’s appointment followed a rigorous selection process by the Office of the Public Guardian and is recognition of Thackray Williams’ structured and robust approach to Court of Protection work,” says Partner Nima Stepney, who heads the Court of Protection team. “This is translating into substantial growth, with the fee income this year expected to be around three times more than last year.” The firm has also welcomed three new colleagues to its Leasehold team: Associate Solicitor Hannah Mooney, Chartered Legal Executive Lauren McKie and Legal Assistant Lisa Toleman. Head of Real Estate and Co-Managing Partner Vikki Herbert says the firm is unusual among regional law firms

Lisa Tolman

Lauren McKie

Hannah Mooney

“The firm’s fee income for Court of Protection work is projected to be up 200% on the last financial year.” in having a dedicated team focused exclusively on the complex legal and regulatory issues surrounding leasehold enfranchisement. “Our new joiners complement our existing expertise for leaseholders, freeholders, managing agents and developers, strengthening a team that is already recognised for its specialist knowledge of enfranchisement, lease extensions, right to manage and residential property disputes,” she says. Hannah Mooney brings 19 years’ experience at law firms across Kent, while Lauren McKie began her legal

Zara Burney-Nicol

Aziza Adeniji

career at Thackray Williams nearly 20 years ago and has specialised in leasehold enfranchisement since 2014. Lisa Toleman is also returning to the firm, citing its culture and familiar faces as key reasons for her decision. The real estate team has been further strengthened by residential conveyancing Paralegal Zara BurneyNicol, who says she was attracted by the firm’s “strong work ethic and amazing culture”. Finally, Risk and Compliance Officer Aziza Adeniji has joined the firm, praising its sense of unity and shared responsibility. “I can tell every person is valued and values what they do,” she says. “It shows that every contribution matters, including mine, and that is very important to me.” www.thackraywilliams.com

“I’m so grateful for this amazing two-year training contract”

erry & Lamberts Solicitors has announced that Bradley Bushell has been awarded a two-year training contract with the firm, marking an important milestone in his legal career. The contract will give Bradley hands-on experience across several legal practice areas, working alongside experienced solicitors and supporting clients on a broad range of matters. He is currently completing his first seat in the family team, building on his previous experience in children law. Before joining Berry & Lamberts, Bradley spent two years as a childcare paralegal for a local authority, focusing on public childcare proceedings. He holds an LLB (Hons) from the University of Southampton and completed the Legal Practice Course alongside an MSc in Law and Business at the University of Law. Subject to successful completion of his

“Working across a range of practice areas and learning from experienced colleagues is something I’m really looking forward to.”

training contract, Bradley is expected to qualify as a solicitor in September 2028. “I’m incredibly pleased to have been offered a training contract with Berry & Lamberts,” says Bradley. “The opportunity to work across a range of practice areas and learn from such experienced colleagues is something I’m really looking forward to. I’m excited to continue developing my skills and taking the next step towards qualifying as a solicitor.” Managing Partner Paul Reader adds: “We are delighted to offer Bradley a training contract and support him as he takes this exciting next step in his career. Training the next generation of solicitors is an important part of our commitment to the future of the profession, and we look forward to seeing Bradley develop over the coming years.” www.berryandlamberts.co.uk

LEGAL NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Iola Cameron celebrates qualifying as a solicitor

ola Cameron has qualified as a solicitor at Tunbridge Wells-based law firm CooperBurnett LLP, having joined the firm as a paralegal in its Corporate and Commercial team four years ago. Iola commenced her training contract in 2024 following the successful completion of her Legal Practice Course (LPC) and Master of Laws (LLM), both with Distinction. Previously, she gained a First Class (Hons) degree in Politics and International Relations from the University of Bristol before completing her Graduate Diploma in Law and LPC at the University of Law. Iola has qualified into CooperBurnett’s Corporate and Commercial department, where she will continue working with Partners Victoria Sampson and Russell Brinkhurst, alongside Katie Hilsdon, Natalie Lai and Molly Mackay. “Having worked alongside Iola for four years, I have seen her grow and develop and am very proud that she’s now qualified as a solicitor,” says Victoria Sampson. “She’s such a

“CooperBurnett has supported me throughout my training contract and recognised the value that people can bring – even where they might not follow a traditional working pattern.” valuable member of our Corporate and Commercial team and I’m looking forward to seeing her continue to flourish.” Iola adds: “CooperBurnett has been amazing in supporting me throughout

my training contract and in recognising the value that people can bring even where they might not follow a traditional working pattern. I’ve been able to work and subsequently qualify while raising my children, which is not always common during your training contract.” Iola says she particularly enjoys finding solutions that add genuine value for clients and building long-term relationships with them. She has also been able to develop those relationships by remaining in the Corporate and Commercial team for longer than the traditional six-month seat. Outside work, Iola enjoys running and earlier this year completed the Brighton & Hove 10k for CooperBurnett’s current charity of choice, The Good Company People, in an impressive 45 minutes and 28 seconds. “I find ideas come to me while I’m running and that’s not just to do with work,” she says. “Going for a run definitely helps me to unwind and think clearly.” www.cooperburnett.com

Supporting Your Projects with Premier Portable Accommodation Solutions At Ashdown Plant Hire & Sales Southern Ltd, we provide superior portable site accommodation and plant hire solutions. Based in Reigate, our mission is to support the construction and event sectors across the South East and London with unparalleled service and expertise. As accommodation specialists, we’re dedicated to delivering flexible, efficient spaces tailored to the unique needs of our diverse clientele. Portable accommodation suppliers to construction, industry & events offices, toilets, storage containers, modular buildings

Contact Ray or Kim

07774 983850 07941 278883 www.ashdownpss.co.uk

NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Steps in the right direction Hundreds of walkers came together for the sixth Walk Tonbridge Festival, helping to raise more than £27,000 for charity – including almost £14,000 for local food bank Sustain

he sixth Walk Tonbridge Festival – organised by James Pavlou, founder of Walk Tonbridge, and supported since its launch by Tunbridge Wells-based law firm CooperBurnett LLP – has raised £27,006.63 for charity this year, with £13,976.63 of this total donated to the event’s chosen charity, Tonbridge food bank Sustain. This year, the Walk Tonbridge Festival launched on Saturday 12 September with the popular Sunrise Social walk – and what a sunrise it was – and concluded on the weekend of 26/27 September with ‘Tonbridge Moments’, a photography exhibition at the Tunnel Gallery, Tonbridge School. Over the years, the Walk Tonbridge Marathon has emerged as the flagship event of the Festival and this year welcomed a record 240 walkers, with another 83 taking part in the five-mile Mini Marathon. Jointly organised by James and Katie Hilsdon from CooperBurnett, the event on Sunday 20 September saw participants

James Pavlou, founder of Walk Tonbridge, with Victoria Sampson from CooperBurnett

The CooperBurnett Walk Tonbridge Marathon team with Victoria Sampson (far left) and Katie Hilsdon (centre, blue t-shirt), with far right, Emma Lander from Sustain.

“

It’s really wonderful to see our community come together in this way to support Sustain depart from Tonbridge Baptist Church as the sun rose and finish at Tonbridge Old Fire Station (TOFS), after walking through some stunning Kent countryside. “CooperBurnett has been a fantastic support to the Walk Tonbridge Festival since our launch and a massive part of making the Walk Tonbridge Marathon the huge event it is now,” says James Pavlou. “I couldn’t run the Festival without our supporters and they also include Tonbridge Old Fire Station (TOFS), Hilden Park Chartered Accountants, Absolute Creative Print and Mr Ames Tea, as well as friends, family and our enthusiastic volunteers!” Sustain, which is based at Tonbridge Baptist Church, currently works with

The Sustain food bank team waiting for returning Walk Tonbridge Marathon walkers at Tonbridge Old Fire Station.

around 90 families each week and will be using the funds raised to help keep its food bank stocked with supplies. Currently, it costs around £1,700 per week to keep the Sustain larder filled with tins and fresh food – which means the amount raised from the Walk Tonbridge Festival will keep it running for an amazing eight weeks. “The Walk Tonbridge Festival has become our largest community fundraiser of the year and, for that, we are endlessly grateful,” says Emma Lander, Community Lead at Sustain. As always, a team from CooperBurnett turned out to tackle the 26.2-mile walk around Tonbridge and its surrounding villages, with the firm represented this time by Sarah Strong – who has conquered every single Walk Tonbridge Marathon to date – June Stacey and her daughter Lauren, Hannah Mashford, Oliver Bussell, Katie Gillam, Joseph Oates and honorary TeamCB member Rachel Aaron. Katie Hilsdon from CooperBurnett has co-organised the Walk Tonbridge Marathon with James since its launch in 2021, when there were just 17 walkers. “Organising what is now such a huge event is quite the challenge, but it’s honestly worth every spreadsheet to learn how much has been raised for Sustain and what a positive difference those funds will make to families in Tonbridge,” says Katie. If you feel you can support Sustain, it is currently looking for donations including tinned meat, tinned fruit and tinned vegetables, as well as dry foods such as pasta, biscuits and rice. These can be dropped off at Tonbridge Baptist Church (TN10 3HZ), from 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. www.cooperburnett.com Tel: 01892 515022

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

NEWS

Protect your business from Cybercrime In today’s digital world, cybercrime is a growing concern for businesses of all sizes. That’s why Cyber Insurance arranged by NFU Mutual, through expert partners, should be an essential part of your insurance programme. Speak to us today about protecting your business – and its reputation – in the event of a cyber incident. That’s Cyber Insurance the NFU Mutual way.

43% of UK businesses reported a cyber incident in the past 12 months* Contact NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell on Flimwell_agency@nfumutual.co.uk or visit your local office. 01892 337488 | 55 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1XU *UK Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2026

Closer to you. Closer to your business. Closer to what matters.

P G Bowring & S Joubert is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers.

SOCIAL SCENE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

125 years of champions in the making

RTW Monson Swimming Club celebrates 125 years with a sparkling awards evening

TW Monson Swimming Club’s annual awards ceremony held an extra-special significance this year. As well as honouring the outstanding achievements of its young athletes, the evening marked 125 years of the RTW Monson organisation and its long-standing contribution to the Royal Tunbridge Wells community. Hosted on 11 September at The High Rocks, the event was an inspiring night of celebration and recognition. The awards reflected individual achievements over the past year and gave members a chance to connect and celebrate their shared successes. Presented by Head Coach Karen Bradbury, Chair Jan Annan and Club President Mark Leman, the accolades highlighted the passion, determination and hard work of the club’s young swimmers. Each squad receives three awards: the Coach’s Award, Most Improved and an Endeavour Award. Trophies were also presented for Greatest Achievement, Contribution to the Club and Perseverance, along with the Dennis Knight Trophy.

The latter honours the memory of Dennis Knight, who served as a leading coach from 1956 and helped transform RTW Monson into one of Kent’s leading swimming clubs. He was also a past president and Life Member of the club. The club was extremely grateful for the generous support of the local businesses that sponsored the event. They included Maddisons Residential, Bells Accounting, Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, Built by Dads, Beau Property, Naos Floors, Private Medical Insurance Brokers, OsteoStrong, Kalon Dental and Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine. The club was also delighted to receive a wonderful selection of raffle prizes from local businesses and supporters. A big thank you goes to Uncle Beef Butchers, Trevor Mottram, Bricks 4 Kidz, Karen Alexandra Boutique, The Meek Boutique, TN1 Bar & Kitchen, Be Plan, West Kent Shooting School, Blended Coffee & Wine Bar, TN Beauty, Adam Smith Magician, AP Racing, Penshurst Place, Mimi VP Photography, Caracol Glamping, The High Rocks, James Martin and OsteoStrong. If you are interested in swimming lessons with Monson Swim School (Swim England Levels 1–8), please contact monson. swimschool@gmail.com. To enquire about the RTW Monson competitive squads, fill out the form at rtwmonson.org.

SOCIAL LEGALSCENE NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Your ideas start businesses Our support sustains them We offer tailored solutions including: STATUTORY ACCOUNTS

LAW FIRM SUPPORT

CORPORATION TAX RETURNS

PERSONAL TAX RETURNS

BUSINESS TAX PLANNING

CAPITAL GAINS TAX

BOOKKEEPING

TRUSTS & ESTATES

PAYROLL

PERSONAL TAX PLANNING

hello@createbalance.uk 01892 311890 | createbalance.uk

SOCIAL SCENE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

A night to remember T

he biennial Love Where We Live Awards, run by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, took place at the Assembly Hall on October 6. The evening was a resounding success full of emotion, fun and deserved recognition for some our borough’s most brilliant individuals and organisations. This year’s awards feature 10 categories, covering everything from Community Group and Charity of the Year to Volunteer, Young Volunteer and Young Sports Achiever. There were also awards celebrating greener ways of living and working, including Green Business, alongside Good Neighbour and New Youth Organisation categories. Our Editor Eileen Leahy sat on the Love Where We Live judging panel this summer and, along with her fellow judges, whittled down the long list of nominations to just three per category. All the finalists were invited to the ceremony where the winners were announced (see list below). The principle organiser of the awards Communications Manager Lizzie Goodwin said: "For nearly two decades, these awards have celebrated the very best of our borough, and every year the awards are held we are amazed by the generosity, dedication and talent of our community. From volunteers and charities working tirelessly behind the scenes to outstanding sporting achievements and acts of kindness, this year's winners truly inspired us. With cheers, tears and even a standing ovation for our overall winner, it was a night to remember."

PHOTOS BY: David Hodgkinson

LOVE WHERE WE LIVE WINNERS 2O26 CHARITY OF THE YEAR: BABY UMBRELLA COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR: SOUTHBOROUGH SOS SPORTSPERSON/TEAM OF THE YEAR: HARRY GRIPPER YOUNG VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: SASKIA D’ARCY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: LIZZIE PENMAN-GREEN YOUNG SPORTS ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR: MATTHEW KNOESEN GOOD NEIGHBOUR AWARD: JULIE GOFF YOUTH ORGANISATION AWARD: KENT YOUNG CARERS (IMAGO) GREEN BUSINESS AWARD: CHARLIE’S ANGELS KITCHENS LOVE WHERE WE LIVE AWARD: LIZZIE PENMAN-GREEN

SOCIAL LEGALSCENE NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

How advice can boost your financial wellbeing

Money worries are common and can affect people from all walks of life. Here are some of the ways taking financial advice can help. Money and wellbeing are intertwined

4. Flexibility to make choices

According to a survey by the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, almost four in ten (39%) respondents with mental health problems said their financial situation had made their mental health problems worse1.

A wealth manager can build a picture of your life and give a projection of how long your money could last. Understanding the impact of your financial decisions can help provide clarity and confidence about your finances, both today and well into the future.

With this in mind, improving your financial wellbeing could boost your finances as well as your overall satisfaction with life.

Four ways financial advice can help 1. Feeling in control Feeling in control of your finances means having a firm grasp of your incomings and outgoings, and a solid budgeting and savings plan. A wealth manager can help you become more aware of your monthly spending and find ways to spend less and save more. They’ll also look at the best ways to tackle any debts you may have. 2. Capacity to absorb a financial shock You might be saving regularly, but would your finances hold up in an emergency? Having around six months’ worth of essential expenditure in an easy-access savings account could help you pay for unexpected repairs to your home or cover you during a period of unemployment. Serious illness or death could cause a major hit to your finances. Protection products – such as life insurance, critical illness and income protection – could provide vital financial support, but they vary enormously, so it’s crucial to seek advice. 3. On track to meet goals Whatever your goals, a wealth manager can help you determine whether you are on track and, if not, how to try to make up the shortfall. They can also help you save and invest tax efficiently so that more of your money goes towards your future.

Next steps Money worries aren’t easy to tackle on your own. We can develop a financial roadmap that sets out where you are now, where you want to be, and how to get there. 1 www.moneyandmentalhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/ The-Facts-updated-2024.pdf

We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability. Graeme Hayden Investment Manager Divisional Director E: graeme.hayden@brewin.co.uk

Evelyn Iriajen Financial Planner Assistant Director E: evelyn.iriajen@brewin.co.uk RBC Brewin Dolphin, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NU T: 01892 739580 W: rbcwm.com/en-uk/royal-tunbridge-wells

The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. You should always check the tax implications with an accountant or tax specialist. Forecasts are not a reliable indicator of future performance. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of RBC Europe Limited. RBC Europe Limited is registered in England and Wales No. 995939. Registered Address: 100 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AA. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. ® / TM Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.

BDM7028_2609_1

INTERVIEW

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

“We want businesses to feel part of something special”

Projects has just opened its new coworking space on Crescent Road. Eileen Leahy was invited along to meet the team ahead of the official opening to discover more about the business’s ethos, its plans for Tunbridge Wells and why it believes the future of work is all about community, collaboration and creating spaces people genuinely want to spend time in…

t’s a sunny yet crisp autumnal morning when I arrive at the new Projects coworking space, located right in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. I’ve driven past the 60s style brick building at 11-12 Crescent Road, which sits just opposite Hotel du Vin, hundreds of times but never really taken any notice of it – until now. The once rather drab office block has had an impressive facelift courtesy of Projects. In addition to the smart external wooden panelling, there’s also eyecatching signage and a new entrance complete with state-of-the-art security and lighting.

“

Images by johnknightphotography.co.uk

We wanted to create somewhere that feels elevated, inspiring and premium, but also calm and welcoming Inside, the design is nothing short of exceptional. The open-plan reception and coworking areas are beautifully appointed – think statement globe lighting, marble detailing on countertops and flooring, supple faux-leather armchairs and hundreds of verdant living plants. The business has also invested heavily in technology and a pleasing infrastructure which makes the most of the natural light and acoustics to make working here as enjoyable as possible. When I sit down to chat with Projects’ Managing Director Alex Young, one of the first things she tells me is that a thoughtfully and aesthetically designed space is key to Projects’ ethos. “We wanted to create somewhere that feels elevated, inspiring and premium, but also calm and welcoming. We believe the spaces we work in have a huge influence on how we think, feel and perform, so every Projects building is designed with real care and aesthetic intention,” she explains. This is Projects’ third location. The

company opened its first premises in a Grade II-listed townhouse in The Lanes, Brighton, in 2018 and four years later acquired Nile House, a huge five-storey workspace. In all of the business’s properties there is a mix of stylish coworking areas, private offices, meeting rooms and kitchenettes. Nile House has the added appeal of a rooftop terrace and an event space, named The Globe. To date, Projects boasts an impressive 3,000 members across Brighton. Offices available for teams at the new Tunbridge Wells site range from three to 100 desks over four storeys, so there is ample room for many freelancers, startups, SMEs and larger businesses. Founded nearly 10 years ago by Christos Demetriou, who is also Company Director, the principal aim was to create coworking environments that were

not only aesthetically and thoughtfully designed, but also provide spaces where communities could grow and thrive and where Projects’ members could collaborate. “We wanted to create something that felt less like a traditional office and more like a place people genuinely wanted to spend their day,” adds Alex. Ever since Projects announced it was coming to Tunbridge Wells, the level of interest and excitement from people has been unprecedented, says Alex. “We have had hundreds of requests from businesses, both large and small, who want to come in and have a look around.” And sure enough, during our cover shoot, a few team members momentarily disappear to do tours of the building, such is the demand from businesses of all sizes. Alex says she’d love for the new

LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

coworking space to be full within a year and, to date, that trajectory is going well, as almost 40 per cent of the offices have now been taken – even before they have officially opened. “We identified a target list of towns and cities, predominantly in the South East, where we felt there would be a real benefit from having a space like ours. And we chose Tunbridge Wells because it has a reputation for having lots of creative businesses and a really strong support network. “We focus on creating design-led spaces with a premium and inspiring feel, but it is equally important to us that we go into an area where there’s a warm, established community that is open to collaboration. The business believes that great workplaces are defined as much by the people you meet as the desk you sit at. “We don’t design our spaces to be simply about work. We want people to connect with others, enjoy their working lives and feel part of something.” Alex adds that ultimately she and her team want to provide ‘a home for people who want to grow their businesses’. “We have created somewhere they will be proud to work from and that also represents who they are. During the creation of 11–12 Crescent Road, we have ensured we make the most of the natural light that floods into the building and that the acoustics are just right. We want people to walk in and immediately think: ‘Oh, I really like it here.’ It should always just feel right.” As well as the stunning interiors, which boast a gorgeous colour palette of natural tones and myriad textures, the ways in which people work have been really thought through.

“

We want people to connect with others, enjoy their working lives and feel part of something There are numerous meeting rooms, open-plan offices, breakout areas, professional presentation spaces and quiet booths, where individuals can take private phone and video calls. There’s even a Stretch Studio, which will offer members free yoga and Pilates classes every week. Alex has also negotiated some great day rates in the nearby Crescent Road

PROJECTS MEMBERS’ BENEFITS Being part of Projects means more than having a desk. Members benefit from a supportive community and a workspace designed to help people and businesses thrive: • A kind, collaborative, purpose-driven community • A full programme of member events and gatherings • Showers, changing rooms and secure bike storage • 24/7 access in the heart of Tunbridge Wells • A dedicated team supporting and connecting members • Exclusive member discounts at local restaurants, hotels and spas • Members’ lounge and shared social spaces • Access to the Stretch Studio and weekly movement classes • Flexible contracts and a variety of workspace options

car park and points out that the whole building is wheelchair accessible. So far, so impressive, but Alex admits that it’s the team that is at the heart of every Projects venture. “They play a huge part in our success. They know our members by name, understand their businesses, make everyone feel welcome and support members in building a genuine community.” Reflecting on the new on-site appointments in Tunbridge Wells, Alex tells me she is ‘absolutely delighted’ that Morgan and Bonnie, who feature on our cover this month, will be at the Crescent Road premises full-time. “They are really great and are very excited about working here. They are both local too, which helps.” Alex says she and Projects’ Brand Manager Alana Harris and Matt Miller, who is Head of Sales – both of whom are also on our shoot today – will hopscotch between the Brighton offices and Tunbridge Wells to ensure everything runs smoothly. Alex continues, saying that, just like their other ventures, Tunbridge Wells will appeal to businesses of all sizes and sectors. “Our communities are incredibly diverse. We welcome everyone from freelancers to start-ups, established businesses and SMEs. You can even apply for a day pass if you’re not ready to commit full-time. There are options for everyone here. We even have an office that can accommodate up to 100 people on our top floor. Ideally, it would be great for one company to take it, but it can easily be split into two.” And just like the Brighton sites, Alex and her team are hoping for lots of organic collaboration between members – whatever industry they might work in.

INTERVIEW

“It’s a great ecosystem to have freelancers, small businesses, entrepreneurs and larger organisations all under one roof. We’ve had so many examples of members collaborating, which has been great for everyone. It creates so many possibilities, with people bouncing ideas off one another and bringing different perspectives and mindsets.” It’s worth noting that Projects is a B Corp business and has been accredited for three years. “In Brighton, we’ve seen more and more businesses wanting to be based in our spaces because they know we take our environmental and carbon footprint seriously, as well as our policies around staff wellbeing and charity engagement. And they want to align themselves with those values.” Alex informs me that the team runs events to mark B Corp Month every March, and that they’re looking forward to bringing that to Tunbridge Wells. “The building is fully powered by green energy, and the business has a plan in place to achieve net zero by 2030. We’re currently working with an excellent energy consultant to help us achieve that,” smiles Alex. Each of the four floors boasts different zoned areas so that throughout the day members can choose the type of working and social environment that suits them best. “We want to encourage people to move around, interact with others and get into a different frame of mind for different types of work. Sometimes simply changing your surroundings can change your

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

perspective,” explains Alex. “If you’re hosting someone for a meeting, for example, you might want to sit in one of our lounge spaces. There are quieter areas if you need to concentrate, traditional hot-desking areas with ergonomic chairs if you want to settle in for the day, and a café-style breakout space that works well for breakfast, lunch or simply having a coffee and conversation.” On that note, Alex says there will be a communal drop-in breakfast every

MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS Whether you need a workspace every day or just occasionally, there are flexible ways to work from Projects Tunbridge Wells:

RESIDENCE MEMBERSHIP

The Residence membership offers complete flexibility, giving you access to Projects’ coworking spaces, events and meeting rooms whenever and however you like.

PRIVATE OFFICES

Look forward to coming to work with Projects’ private offices. Enjoy premium, fully equipped spaces in the heart of Tunbridge Wells town centre.

DAY PASSES

Need a flexible workspace for just a day or half-day? Projects’ coworking day passes give you access to inspiring, fully equipped workspace right in the town centre.

SESSIONS

Projects’ Sessions package offers 500 shared hours of workspace access, valid for 12 months. Ideal for teams of four or more.

“

I’m keen not to say that we’re going to ‘build a community’, because there already is a very established one – we simply want to be part of that Tuesday for members between 8.30am and 9.30am as well as monthly After Hours drinks and lots of events. “We’ll work with a local caterer for our breakfasts and from January we will be liaising with our members here to help shape an events programme. There will also be the opportunity for them to help us pick a charity of the year too. “In Brighton, we run talks and workshops on everything from sustainability and mental health to neurodiversity in the workplace. We always keep subject matters really diverse and encourage our members to suggest things they want to learn about or even put on themselves. “I think our Tunbridge Wells members will really get behind this.” Alex readily admits there are already some fantastic coworking spaces operating in town and the idea is not to be in competition but to collaborate. “I genuinely mean it when I say that if we want our members to be collaborative, then we also have to act in the same way. “We do that in Brighton by promoting other spaces and working with them, making sure that anyone looking for a workspace finds the right fit. I feel what

LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

we’re offering is more of a lifestyle option. I know that won’t necessarily work for everyone, but I think there is a gap in the market for that, so we are here to fill it.” Alex reveals that she and her colleagues have already been to lots of local networking events in order to meet people in person. “I’m keen not to say that we’re going to ‘build a community’, because there already is a very established one – we simply want to be part of that.” After operating two very successful Projects spaces in Brighton and now one here in Tunbridge Wells, what’s Alex’s key message on Projects’ ethos? “Well, we have been doing this for nearly 10 years now, and we’ve certainly learned from any mistakes we have made. But I think ultimately, we just want to make people’s day-to-day lives easier and more enjoyable. Whether that’s having really lovely, locally sourced small-batch coffee on tap to our staff chatting to a visitor if you’re running late. Or it could be simply being able to plug in one wire so a member’s screen and camera connect effortlessly. Nothing is a problem for us. “We all have so much going on in our lives; the last thing you need is someone getting stressed because something isn’t working. We want to create a place where local businesses can grow together, and that’s why our people, both members and staff, are so important. We want people

“

We're not arriving to change Tunbridge Wells. We're here because we admire what's already been created and want to contribute to its continued success to come in, feel comfortable, inspired and simply enjoy being here. “We've seen in Brighton how bringing ambitious people together creates opportunities, partnerships and longterm business growth. We've supported members from two-person start-ups to companies employing more than 20

Your lawyers for business and life.

Complexity is our speciality. When expert mergers and acquisitions advice is needed, the right team makes all the difference. • • •

Cross-border transactions Employee ownership trusts Private capital

Our combination of legal experience, strong project management, and clear communication gives you seamless, partner-led support from start to finish. Our energy, empathy, and expertise help you make a positive and long-lasting impact. cripps.co.uk/mergers-and-acquisitions

people, and it's incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey.” Once our chat is over, it’s time to leave this incredible space and its really lovely team – but not before Alex tells me one last thing: “We're not arriving to change Tunbridge Wells. We're here because we admire what's already been created and want to contribute to its continued success.” I have every faith that Projects will do exactly that… Projects Tunbridge Wells 11–12 Crescent Road, TN1 2LU hello@workatprojects.co.uk 01273 284124 www.workatprojects.co.uk/tunbridge-wells Instagram: @workatprojectsuk LinkedIn: @workatprojectsuk

AUTUMN STATEMENT

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

A Budget for business Ahead of the new Chancellor John Healey’s first Autumn Statement on October 28, we take the temperature of the local business community to see what’s on their wish list of measures to support growth, investment and confidence… DEBORAH RICHARDS,

FOUNDER OF MADDISONS RESIDENTIAL Tunbridge Wells is a wonderful place to live and do business, and I think our priority should be protecting the independent businesses that help make it that way. I would like to see the Chancellor give small businesses greater breathing space, particularly around business rates and the cost of employing people, so that they have the confidence to invest, recruit and grow. Thriving independent shops, restaurants and businesses don’t just support the local economy; they create the character and vibrancy that makes a town like Tunbridge Wells such an attractive place to live.

NEILL THOMAS

PARTNER & MANAGING DIRECTOR, THOMAS MANSFIELD The Chancellor faces a budget deficit and needs to raise as much tax as possible. In practice, that means encouraging existing businesses to expand and take on more staff, and persuading entrepreneurs to start new ones. But small businesses have been given more burdens, not more encouragement. The National Minimum Wage has gone up again, employer’s National Insurance has risen, and there has been little or no relief from business rates, which are still staggeringly high. Businesses won’t expand until they have the confidence and the profits to do it. At the moment, both are paper thin. The question should be what can be done to help firms grow, not what more can be taken from them. Please, Mr Chancellor, give small business owners a break. Encourage growth and put some energy back into the business community. Don’t make it harder. With a deficit to close, that would be a brave decision, but it is also a reliable way to fill the Treasury’s coffers.

BECKY MORAN

DIRECTOR, TN SALES & TN LETTINGS As a small independent business, we’d like to see a Budget that genuinely supports our local economy. Reducing

employment costs would give businesses more confidence to recruit and retain staff, while VAT relief for hospitality could provide much-needed support to our fantastic local restaurants, pubs and cafés. We’d also welcome help with soaring utility costs, perhaps through the return of sensible energy caps for businesses. And, of course, as an estate and letting agent, we want measures that get the housing market moving – support for firsttime buyers, sensible Stamp Duty reform and greater confidence for landlords to remain and invest in the rental market.

JOSEPH OATES

PARTNER AND HEAD OF CONTENTIOUS, COOPERBURNETT LLP Most of our clients depend for their livelihoods on business, as does the country. When facing uncertainty, a golden rule in business is to do nothing. Given what has already been visited on business in the form of tax and regulation in two short years, I would hope that this new Chancellor is able to exercise restraint and not impose more restrictions and disincentives on the private sector. GDP growth is predicted to be 2% this year. In order to maintain and build upon positive signs of recovery, the Chancellor should permit full utilisation of our domestic energy resources and expedite the expansion of Heathrow. If he wants to be truly bold (and politically savvy), he should scrap Stamp Duty Land Tax. The confidence that would unleash would be a great stimulus to a consumer-led recovery.

DANIELLE FRIEND

MANAGING DIRECTOR, CREATE BALANCE ACCOUNTANTS I think recruitment, pay and AI are huge factors for us in the accountancy and tax sector. The impact AI is having on us will be exponential over the next 18 months to two years – entry-level jobs just won’t exist. How do you train a junior member of

staff if there is no junior-level work to be done? I want the Chancellor to commit to helping businesses employ more young people – they have lots of skills, they just don’t know how to use them yet.

BRIAN KEELEY-WHITING

MANAGING DIRECTOR, WH PUBS Pubs are not asking for a handout; we are asking for a fair chance. Our sales are holding up, but the cost of employing people has gone up far faster than we can put prices up, and that is where the profit has gone. The biggest difference the Chancellor could make is to ease employer National Insurance for hospitality and give us a permanent, lower business rates bill for pubs. But the most important thing would be a lower rate of VAT on food and drink, which would let us invest, take on more young people and keep prices sensible for our customers. Pubs like ours are often the biggest local employer in a village and provide the first job for a lot of youngsters. Far too many pubs are closing and, if we are not careful, that’s all that will happen here – just like the butcher and the post office that disappeared from your village.

EMMA THOMPSON

HEAD OF EMPLOYMENT & EDUCATION AND CO-MANAGING PARTNER, THACKRAY WILLIAMS As a business leader advising employers across a wide range of sectors, I see first-hand the challenges businesses face in growing their workforce and investing with confidence. My priority would be a Budget that supports sustainable growth by reducing the cost and administrative burden of employment. Many of our clients would welcome measures to offset the increased costs and compliance demands arising from forthcoming employment law reforms. Relief on employer National Insurance, targeted incentives for recruitment and retention, and greater investment in skills and apprenticeships would help businesses manage these pressures while continuing to create jobs and invest in

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

their people. Our clients support stronger workplace protections, but there is concern about the cumulative impact of increased regulation alongside existing cost pressures. The Budget is an opportunity to balance enhanced employee rights with measures that give employers the confidence to hire, invest and grow.

VIKKI HERBERT

HEAD OF REAL ESTATE AND CO-MANAGING PARTNER, THACKRAY WILLIAMS I would like to see something to help kick-start the property market by allowing first-time buyers to get onto the housing ladder, especially with recent increases in mortgage rates in anticipation that the Bank of England will put up interest rates. This will, in part, come through the announcement of the ‘Your First Home’ scheme that has been announced, so we are waiting eagerly for news on that front.

SIOBHAN STIRLING

MANAGING DIRECTOR, SHARP MINDS COMMUNICATIONS I’d like to see meaningful measures to support the nearly one million NEETs – young people aged 16 to 24 not in education, employment or training. Gen Z is facing an unprecedented existential crisis. Having had their education and significant formative years disrupted by the pandemic, they now face the seismic disruption of AI, meaning a level of career uncertainty that no previous generation has faced. Moreover, by failing to provide pathways into education, employment or training, we are creating a time bomb of economic inactivity, social exclusion and poor physical and mental health. Revisiting employers’ NI contributions and creating more opportunities for apprenticeships and vocational training are strategies that I hope the new Prime Minister and Chancellor are prioritising – otherwise we will perpetuate what Alan Milburn found to be a ‘record of failure’.

IAIN LARKINS

PARTNER, CRIPPS Hospitality and consumer-facing businesses will be watching the upcoming Autumn Statement particularly closely. A warmer tone towards pubs, live music venues and high streets may be welcome, but tone will only go so far. The sector will be looking to the Budget for clarity on business rates, VAT, employment costs and any further support for town centre regeneration. For many operators, confidence will depend on whether the Government can combine ambition with practical relief from cost pressures. Autumn is an important period. Businesses do not need every answer immediately, but they do need a credible sense of stability. PM Andy Burnham’s first major speech suggested a clearer political project than the previous regime, but confidence will depend on whether that project is matched by fiscal realism, policy detail and a willingness to give businesses enough certainty to plan. The opportunity for business is to engage early with the themes now emerging, principally devolution, regeneration, workforce reform, consumer confidence and a more constructive European relationship. The risk is assuming that warm words alone will create certainty. The Budget will show whether this government’s first big statement of intent can become a credible plan for growth.

AUTUMNLEGAL STATEMENT NEWS

Time to plan ahead By Katie Gillam, Partner, Private Client, CooperBurnett LLP

The Autumn Budget 2026 is fast approaching and, as a Private Client Solicitor, it is one of the most important events in the financial calendar. This Budget will take place on Wednesday 28 October and it is the first under Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Chancellor John Healey. The weeks running up to any Budget are often met with anticipation from private clients, with speculation as to how matters will unfold on the day and how they will be affected going forward. Clients will often wish to be proactive ahead of any announcements and look to review their own position and options. In recent years, there has been speculation over proposed changes to the tax regime that would inevitably have consequences for private clients. The rumour mill has been turning with suggestions that changes could be made to the rates of Capital Gains Tax, the ability to make lifetime gifts, and the potential to make post death variations. There is also the continual debate as to whether or not changes will be made to the Inheritance Tax regime, currently with stagnated UK Inheritance Tax thresholds frozen until April 2031 (standard nil rate band stays at £325,000 and residence nil rate band remaining at £175,000). With the Budget just around the corner, now might well be the time to consider your personal tax planning further. However, it is essential that before any steps are made to take advice from your legal and financial advisers, to ensure all factors are considered and no hasty and expensive decisions are taken. If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact Katie Gillam by email: kjg@cooperburnett.com or tel: 01892 515022

www.cooperburnett.com This blog is not intended as legal advice that can be relied upon

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

The business of making connections and creating opportunities

Nick Bryant founder of Brilliant Businesses

Now in its third year, the Tunbridge Wells Business Show takes place on November 5th at the Assembly Hall, and this publication is proud to be its official media sponsor. Here, the show’s founder, Nick Bryant of Brilliant Businesses, tells Eileen Leahy about the exciting array of companies taking part – and how you can sign up for a free visitor pass…

o sell out the Assembly Hall theatre, which has a capacity of around 1,100 people, is no mean feat – but to do it two years in a row is pretty impressive. Business entrepreneur and podcaster Nick Bryant of Brilliant Businesses certainly knows how that feels, given that’s what has happened with his enormously popular business show, which is now in its third year. “We sold all our pitches back in August, which is just fantastic,” reveals Nick, who hosted the first show at a much smaller, out-of-town venue back in 2024. “I’m still getting requests from businesses asking to book stands, but sadly I have to tell them we’re fully booked.” He tells me the show is ‘the ultimate networking event for ambitious businesses who are looking to grow and prosper’. He adds that any businesses looking to raise brand awareness, generate contacts and generally spread the word about themselves should seriously consider exhibiting. That could be at the next one here in Tunbridge Wells in 2027 or at one of the other shows Nick has rolled out in Maidstone, Ashford, Medway,

“

The aim of our show is to bring business communities together in one place, under one roof Canterbury and Bromley. In fact, I am chatting to Nick on the eve of the inaugural Bromley Business Show and he says he is very pleased with how that – and the other shows – are being received across the county. “Whatever town we are in, the aim of the event is the same: to bring business communities together in one place, under one roof. I have found local councils and economic development teams to be very helpful. Everyone wants to encourage supporting local businesses.” But back to the Tunbridge Wells event, which takes place from 10am to 3pm on November 5th. This will be the second year running that the show has been held at the Assembly Hall, and Nick believes it is the perfect venue.

“It’s central, there’s lots of parking and it’s easily accessible for both exhibitors and visitors.” This year, there are an impressive 50 exhibitors taking part. They range from law firms, finance companies and construction businesses to customer relations experts. The show’s headline sponsors are Azets UK and Culverwells – and this publication is proud to be the show’s official media sponsor. And although all the pitches have been sold, anyone can turn up on the day – and entry is free. Given the wealth of different businesses participating, there really will be something for everyone to benefit from, adds Nick. “There’s a real mix. We’ve got asset management companies, brewers, estate agents, property management companies and quite a few accountants. There are also AI and printing experts, healthcare services, office providers and IT companies.” Nick says that although it’s essentially a B2B show, business owners are also consumers, so there’s a nice crossover, no matter how big or small a company might be. “For example, we’ve got mortgage

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

brokers and Metro Bank exhibiting. Everyone will need financial advice at some point, so they are on hand to help.” Nick is a Tunbridge Wells resident and well known in business circles thanks to his successful Brilliant Businesses podcast, which has seen him interview everyone from HR experts to entrepreneurs over the past few years. Nick reveals that he also runs the Luxury Business Shows. “We did the first one at the Porsche showroom in Tonbridge last Christmas and it went very well. The idea was simple: put some amazing cars in the middle of the showroom and then place a number of high-end exhibitors around it.” Nick explains that this simple plan gives high-end exhibitors and affluent visitors to the show the opportunity to naturally network.

also be working with Balfour Winery, as well as a few luxury fashion and beauty retailers for the forthcoming festive event – so watch this space. Before Nick heads off to put the finishing touches to the Bromley show he says that the reason exhibitors and visitors really get behind the Brilliant Business shows is because they see them as a good opportunity to get everyone together and encourage people to do business locally. “We bring together businesses, entrepreneurs and professionals from across Kent for some fantastic networking and to make new connections and to bounce around fresh ideas and business opportunities.” It sounds like a win-win scenario for everyone… “It’s not really even about selling – it’s about visibility, collaboration and the power of connection.” Nick hosted a second Luxury Business Show in May this year, this time at the local Aston Martin showroom, and he hopes to do another at Christmas. There’s already one booked for 2027 at Bentley in May, so keep an eye on his socials for more information about those… As you would expect, Nick has already attracted a number of high-end businesses, including Ashdown Travel and Simply Caribbean, Alexander House Hotel and Ashdown Park Hotel for his Luxury Business Shows. He also adds that he will

brilliantbusinesses.biz/tunbridge-wellsbusiness-show-exhibition

10am to 3pm

Thursday 5th November 2026

Assembly Hall, Tunbridge Wells

Do you need flexible pragmatic HR support? Frustrated that HR issues prevent you from focusing on your business?

“HR is all about people, so our approach is always personal.”

If so, then get in touch. T: 01892 300360 info@gfhr.co.uk gfhr.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Businesses feel pressure as insolvencies rise Corporate insolvencies recently reached a four-month high, with rising costs, squeezed margins and economic uncertainty continuing to put pressure on businesses. Rob Young of Azets, which has an office in Tunbridge Wells, explains what the latest figures mean for companies across the region…

orporate insolvencies reached a four-month high in August, with rising costs, squeezed margins and economic uncertainty continuing to put pressure on businesses. There were 1,946 corporate insolvencies in August, 0.6 per cent more than in July (1,934) and three per cent less than in August 2025 (2,007). Rob Young, a restructuring and insolvency partner at Azets, the UK’s top 10 accountancy and advisory firm, which has offices in Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone, Ashford, Canterbury and Sidcup, says the latest figures highlight the continuing financial pressures facing businesses.

“

Our advice for anyone who is worried about their business is simple: pick up the phone and speak to an adviser “Corporate insolvency numbers hit a four-month high in August, driven by a rise in administrations as more than 250 connected companies in the real estate sector entered administration between March and August of this year. “August also saw an uptick in Compulsory Liquidations, as creditors continue to chase down debt in an attempt to balance their own books and HMRC continues to pursue tax debts to recover money for the public purse. “While the rise in numbers can be explained, there’s no denying it was a summer of sorrow for many firms, as ongoing and long-running cost issues and uncertainty caused by the political and geopolitical climate met the heatwave and – for certain sectors – resulted in fewer customers, a drop in sales and an increase in the cost of keeping buildings, customers and staff cool from the heat. “The summer also saw a number of big names enter insolvency processes and announce store or site closures, with TG Jones and Beefeater just two examples of

ROB YOUNG British brands that were once a staple of everyday life cutting their presence on high streets and disappearing from towns and roadsides, while big names such as Aston Martin showed signs of struggle. “The cost-of-living issues are now starting to take their toll on higher earners and this is hitting higher-end brands which had avoided their effects to date. With inflation, living and energy costs increasing and wage rises often struggling to keep pace, those on higher incomes are now likely to start shopping around and watching their outgoings more closely than they ever have, which will have an impact on premium brands in a way it hasn’t until now. “From a sector perspective, retailers saw a monthly fall in sales and while volumes are up year-on-year, falling margins and rising costs – especially employment taxes – mean that this isn’t the good news retailers were hoping for and sorely needed. “The construction industry continues to suffer from a lack of new work, while rising material and wage costs carry on eroding margins and leave contracts agreed in better times walking a fine line between profitable and loss-making. For firms in this industry, whose profits have always been slim, these cost increases are pushing them closer towards financial distress. “The hospitality industry has been hit hard by the hot weather as people stayed at home and hid from the heat in a month

which is normally ripe for going out and spending money. “With cooler weather expected, it will be interesting to see whether consumers get back into the habit of going out – and if they don’t, that could create further problems for a sector that’s struggling and which hoped the summer might provide a much-needed revenue boost to help pay for the increased costs of wages, energy bills and trading. “Firms will also be keeping a watchful eye on rumours about next month’s Budget. Years of increased expenses combined with the wage, tax and Business Rates increases announced in the 2024 and 2025 Budgets have hit profits, growth and recruitment. “With little time to prepare for Budget announcements taking effect, businesses will be hoping the Chancellor spares them from any further increases in costs as many have seen profits erode to a point of unsustainability. “Our advice for anyone who is worried about their business is simple: pick up the phone and speak to an adviser. It is an incredibly difficult conversation to have, but seeking advice about your concerns gives you more options, more time to take a decision and a better chance of turning your situation around than if you’d waited until the issues became more severe and the window for decision-making became shorter.” azets.com

Advertorial Feature TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE 29 OF UNDERINSURANCE

Running a business requires dedication, hard work, THE LANDSCAPE OF CYBER RISK, ONEEVOLVING INCIDENT AWAY: THE CONSEQUENCES and the ability to adapt to ever-changing market conditions. However, one sometimes overlooked ITS AND HOW TOYOUR KEEP YOUR OF IMPACTS, UNDERINSURANCE FOR area can have BUSINESS disastrous consequences for busines owners: underinsurance. RETAIL BUSINESS SAFE Running a business requires dedication, hard work,

In this article, Shaun Joubert from NFU Mutual Flimwell & and the ability to adapt to ever-changing market Tunbridge Wells reflects on the effects of the evolving landscape conditions. of cyber-crime onHowever, businesses,one andsometimes explores howoverlooked to keep your area can business safe.have disastrous consequences for business

owners: Cyber risk inunderinsurance. the news

Cybercrime is becoming more common and major retail Many businesses, regardless of size, assume groups including Co-op, Marks and Spencer andcan Harrods that having basic insurance coverage is enough have all been amongst it’s recent victims. A survey of 600 businesses, conducted by NFU Mutual, found that 18% of to protect them from unexpected incidents. retailers questioned,insufficient had fallen victim to cybercrime in theyour last Unfortunately, coverage can leave 12 business months. exposed to significant financial loss. Cyber-attacks don’t just happen to large businesses; retailers of Whether it’s property damage, a legal claim, or a all sizes are at risk. cyberattack, the costs of being underinsured could Having seen the eff ects on businesses recently, organisations put what you’ve worked so hard for at financial risk. are critically reviewing their approaches to cyber risk, to ensure they have protection in place to defend against the threat.

At NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell, we understand how critical it isbut toit’s ensure youra business Cyber risk affects every business, becoming major is properly protected. can help youon identify concern for retailers. Modern We retail relies heavily technology – gaps in yourinventory cover and provide insurance email, websites, systems, andtailored point-of-sale software. These tools make operations effi cient, but they also create solutions to help keep your business safe from the vulnerabilities. unexpected. Cyber risk and retail businesses

Retailers handle sensitive data every day, from customer payment details to employee records. This information must be The consequences of underinsurance kept secure. Cyber threats can target anything connected to your business: Underinsurance occurs when your business’s • insurance Basic tools –cover like email and online doesn’t fully banking. meet the cost of

claims. • potential Customer-facing platforms – such as websites and ordering systems. are some of the businesses face • Here Operational systems – formain stock risks management and sales. when they’re underinsured:

• Hardware and devices – including servers, digital storage, and even internet-connected CCTV.

• Property Damage: If your property or equipment is For Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a single breach damaged, underinsurance may leave you unable can lead to financial loss, reputational damage, and regulatory to fully replace or repair it, leading to costly gaps. penalties.

Steps to reduceInterruption: the risk of cyber-attacks: • Business In the event of a

There are steps retailers can take to boost security disruption, underinsurance maycyber result in and reduce the chances of falling victim to cyber-attacks:

inadequate compensation for lost income, impacting your cash flow.

1. Use Strong Passwords

2. Two Step Verification – this is also known as multifactor •authentication Liability Risks: Insufficient liability cover could 3. Ensure to you keepexposed on top of soft updates legal fees and leave to ware significant

compensation claims for injury or 4. Backup files and datacosts – you following should do this weekly negligence. 5. Training – educate your employees on cybercrime and the risks 6. Cyber security software – install additional cyber security

Many businesses, regardless of size, can assume that having basic insurance coverage is enough to protect them from unexpected incidents. Unfortunately, insufficient coverage can leave your business exposed to significant financial loss. Whether it’s property damage, a legal claim, or a cyberattack, the costs of being underinsured could put what you’ve worked so hard for at financial risk.

At NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell, we understand how critical it is to ensure your business is properly protected. We can help you identify How NFUgaps Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell in your cover and provide tailored can insurance help protect your business software, including fito rewalls antivirus ware on allsafe from the solutions helporkeep yoursoft business companyunexpected. devices, and regularly update these. NFU Mutual, we specialise in helping 7.AtConsider using Virtual Private Network (VPN) to provide businesses with the right level of insurance to consequences ofware, underinsurance 8. PhysicalThe security – aside from soft remember to securely protect them. We understand that business needs store and lock away company devices when not in use. Underinsurance occurs when your business’s change over time, which is why we offer a flexible Though it is promising that many businesses are implementing insurance coverso doesn’t fully meetyour the policy cost of approach to insurance, you can adapt security measures already, robust defences can’t eliminate all potential claims. as your risks. Cyberbusiness insurance grows. is also a vital tool and complements these measures, providing financial protection and support in the Here are some of the main risks businesses face Here’s how we can help: event of an attack.

when they’re underinsured:

Cyber insurance at NFU Mutual – defending against • Tailored Insurance Solutions: We get to know your the cyber • threat Property Damage: If your property or equipment i

business and itsby risks, reviewing your Cyber cover, arranged NFU Mutual through ourcover expertto damaged, underinsurance may leave you unable help isyou ensure protects what matters from partners, designed to it protect businesses of all sizes—from to fully replace or repair it, leading to costly gaps. the consequences a variety digital and threats that property andofstock to of liability andcyber future growth. modern businesses face. • Flimwell Business Interruption: In the event of a •NFUOngoing Support and Reviews: Your business Mutual & Tunbridge Wells can offer: disruption, underinsurance may result in inadequate compensation forcover lost income, regular reviews to and help you keep up to • Control – containment recovery fromyour an incident, impacting your cash flow. date, reflecting reducing downtime. your current needs and growth. changes andexpert yourincident insurance shouldavailable too. We24/7. offer • Support – with responders

• Protection – minimiseRisks: the reputational damage and ficover nancialcould • Liability Insufficient liability impact to your business.

leave you exposed to significant legal fees Being underinsured can expose your business to and

Whether it’scompensation ransomware, hijacking, breaches or denial costsdata following forofinjury or significant financial risk. Mutual isclaims here toyour service attacks, our office will takeNFU the time to understand negligence. help thatthe your business needs andensure help ensure cover you haveisinfully placeprotected is right for youagainst and your the business. unexpected. Don’t wait until it’s

too late contact Shaun Joubert at NFU Mutual For more information cyber insurance Tunbridge Wells andabout Flimwell on 01892 337488 options, please contact our agency office tunbridge_wells@nfumutual.co.uk. on 01892 337488 or Tunbridge_wells@nfumutual.co.uk

S Joubert & P G Bowring is an appointed representative of The Nationa

S Joubert & P G Bowring is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial S Joubert & P G Bowring is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

A conversation employers can't afford to ignore World Menopause Day is on 18 October, so this month Gemma Farina, Managing Director of GFHR Consulting, shines a spotlight on menopause awareness and shares why now is a good time for employers to ask themselves a simple question: are we doing enough to support our people?

enopause affects a significant number of employees during their working lives, yet many still struggle in silence. Symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, brain fog, poor sleep and hot flushes can have a real impact on someone’s experience at work. Everyone’s experience is different, which means support should be too. From an employer’s perspective, this isn’t just a wellbeing issue. It’s about retaining experienced employees, reducing absence and creating a workplace where people can perform at their best. The good news is that support doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference:

• Training managers to have confident, supportive conversations. • Offering flexibility where possible.

“

From an employer’s perspective, this isn’t just a wellbeing issue. It’s about retaining experienced employees, reducing absence, and creating a workplace where people can perform at their best • Considering simple workplace adjustments, such as temperature control, rest breaks or access to quiet spaces. • Creating a culture where talking about menopause feels normal rather than uncomfortable. Employers also have responsibilities under existing health and safety and equality legislation, so taking a proactive

approach can help reduce risk while showing employees they are valued. Ultimately, supporting menopause at work isn’t about special treatment. It’s about recognising that a little understanding and practical support can help talented people continue to thrive. World Menopause Day is the perfect reminder that supporting your people isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to start the conversation. If you’re unsure where to begin, GFHR can help you put practical, proportionate support in place that works for both your people and your business. www.gfhr.co.uk

AI, smartphones and the future of everyday healthcare In her monthly column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Caroline Weiss-Jones, Director of Berwick Devoil Healthcare Limited, explores how artificial intelligence and smartphones are changing everyday healthcare – and yet why human expertise, regulation and responsible adoption remain essential…

rtificial intelligence is changing the way we approach everyday healthcare, with smartphones increasingly becoming a gateway to information, monitoring and early intervention. For UK consumers and businesses, this raises an important question: can we trust AI to help identify common ailments and skin conditions? The technology is developing rapidly. AI can analyse symptoms, photographs and health information to identify patterns that may warrant further investigation. Dermatology is a particularly promising area, with AI-supported tools helping clinicians assess images of skin lesions and identify patients who may require specialist attention. The NHS is already exploring and implementing AI across healthcare, including technologies designed to support earlier diagnosis and improve clinical pathways. Used effectively, these systems

could help reduce waiting times, improve triage and make better use of increasingly stretched healthcare resources. However, AI should be viewed as a supporting tool, not a replacement for medical professionals. A smartphone photograph, for example, can vary considerably in quality, lighting and clarity. Skin tone, unusual symptoms and conditions that fall outside an AI system’s training data can also affect its accuracy. A reassuring result should not prevent someone from seeking medical advice when symptoms persist or cause concern.

Trust also depends on regulation. In the UK, software designed for a medical purpose may fall under medical-device regulation overseen by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Appropriate regulatory approval, clinical evidence, data protection and professional oversight will therefore remain essential as adoption increases. For UK businesses, the implications extend beyond healthcare providers. AI could influence employee wellbeing, occupational health, private medical services and the wider health insurance landscape. The opportunity is significant - but responsible adoption matters. The future is unlikely to be about AI replacing healthcare professionals. Instead, it is about using technology to help patients and professionals make better-informed decisions, earlier.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

A New Digital Chapter for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine has relaunched its website, marking an exciting new chapter for the publication and the local community it serves.

he redesigned twbusinessmagazine.com provides a faster, more engaging online destination for business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals and decisionmakers across Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area. While the printed magazine will remain at the heart of the TWBM brand, the new website will allow us to publish more frequently and respond more quickly to the stories, people and developments shaping our local economy. Readers can expect a broader mix of regularly updated business news, interviews, company profiles, expert commentary, reviews and practical insight. A clearer, more contemporary design will make it easier to discover the latest stories, explore different subjects and access relevant content across desktop, tablet and mobile devices. The aim is simple: to give the local business community more reasons to visit, return and engage. The relaunch builds on an already Brightstar Law core brand: established, engaged digital audience and is supported by paid Google and social

media advertising designed to introduce the enhanced website and its content to an even wider relevant audience. For advertisers, the new platform creates valuable opportunities to place their brands alongside credible, locally focused editorial content. Banner advertising will offer sustained visibility among readers with a genuine interest in business, while integrated editorial opportunities will allow organisations to demonstrate expertise, share useful insights and tell their stories

in greater depth. The relaunched website represents more than a new look. It is an investment in stronger local business journalism, greater digital engagement and better connections between the companies, people and ideas driving Tunbridge Wells forward. We look forward to welcoming readers and advertisers and sharing the next chapter of local business success across our community. www.twbusinessmagazine.com

Visit us at the

London • Kent • Sussex

Legal clarity,

Brightstar Law is the formal legal services expression of the group. It should use the Brightstar Navy field as its primary brand environment, with the compass-star, wordmark and divider appearing in white. This maintains continuity with the existing legal brand and supports a professional, authoritative impression.

simply delivered.

Brightstar Law component

Specification

Primary logo elements

Star White #FFFFFF

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS SHOW

November Meet our team and discover how clear, joined-up advice can move your business forward.

Practical, commercially focused legal and people support ambitious organisations and individuals. Primary background Brightstarfor Navy #00317F

Descriptor

EXPERT SUPPORT WHERE IT MATTERS MOST LAW Commercial & Corporate Law • People & Employmnet Solutions • Disputes, Data & GDPR

Visual personality Typical use

Formal, assured, expert and precise

www.brightstar.law • 0345 004 3200 • enquiries@brightstar.law Website headers, legal proposals, credentials, formal documents and brand-led digital materials

The institute, High St, Wadhurst, East Sussex, TN35 6AP

Brightstar Law may use white or warm neutral backgrounds for editorial content, but Authorised and regulated by the SRA No 8013389 the strongest recognition moment should remain white logo artwork on navy.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

The legal community on your doorstep From supporting young lawyers and creating valuable professional connections to giving local businesses the opportunity to engage with the legal community, the Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & District Law Society is much more than a professional network…

ou may know the names above the doors of our local law firms. But how well do you know the people behind them? The solicitor whose expertise complements yours, the trainee facing the same challenges as your newest recruit, or the lawyer down the road who commutes to London three days a week and works from home the rest? At the Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & District Law Society, we bring those people together: to share experiences, build relationships and enjoy being part of the local legal community.

“

You do not have to work for a Tunbridge Wells law firm to become a member. If you live in the district but work in London or elsewhere, you are welcome too For our President, Jenna Hunter, the strength of that community is something worth investing in. When she joined, she was running her own practice, Hunter Law and looking to build connections with other lawyers since then her business has increased significantly in size. Now, as President, she wants more lawyers and other legal professionals in the district to benefit from those same connections.

THE VOICE OF THE LOCAL LEGAL COMMUNITY

The way lawyers train, work and win work is changing. We bring the local profession together to share experiences and perspectives through talks, training and events, and circulate consultations so members can contribute their views. Our President also joins other local law society presidents at national gatherings, where concerns from the local profession can be raised. Alongside that collective voice, there is a very personal benefit to getting involved.

is a very accessible way to help your staff build a supportive network beyond their immediate team or colleagues. Through the Junior Lawyers Division, which we support, younger professionals can meet peers, develop confidence and access practical learning. Activities have ranged from proofreading support to chocolate making and wine tasting. “It is a great way for junior lawyers to get to know senior partners - people who can make introductions, open doors and support their career progression,” says our Vice President, Ashley Scriven, Partner at Loch Law. “The relationships they make today could last throughout their careers.” Our annual awards, including Trainee of the Year and Paralegal of the Year, recognise emerging talent and give firms an opportunity to celebrate their colleagues' achievements.

MORE THAN A LEGAL NETWORK

As Jenna puts it: “It can help you with your business. It can actually help you with your career.” That might mean knowing whom to call when a client needs advice outside your specialism, finding someone to exchange ideas with, or making a connection that develops into a referral. Sometimes, it simply means talking to somebody who understands the pressures of the job.

PUTTING DOWN PROFESSIONAL ROOTS

You do not have to work for a Tunbridge Wells firm to become a member. If you live in the district but work in London or elsewhere, you are welcome too. “We’re especially concerned about junior lawyers who work from home. It can be isolating, particularly when you’re still building your professional network,” says Jenna. “You might work for a London firm but spend much of your week here, without knowing other lawyers nearby. The Society gives you a chance to meet people, share experiences and feel part of your local legal community.” Firms based outside Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding district can also arrange membership for staff who live here. At just £33 per person per year, it

And our reach extends beyond law firms. Events take place in local venues, and local businesses are encouraged to get involved through sponsorship, prizes we can raffle to raise funds for our chosen charity, Young Lives Foundation, or special offers for members. For businesses keen to build relationships locally, that creates an opportunity to meet the legal community and support something that benefits the area. Whether you are starting your career, living or working in the area, or running a local business, we want to hear from you. Now is a great time to join as we have our annual gala dinner attended by around 200 local legal professionals on Friday 20 November – see details in our advert opposite.

Tunbridge District L

ESTABLISHED 1 Membership is open to solicitors and other legal professionals (including CILEX) for further details and sponsorship enquiries, visit twtdls.co.uk.

Where the loca comes together

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & District Law Society Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & ESTABLISHED 1933 |Society 260+ MEMBERS District Law ESTABLISHED 1933 | 260+ MEMBERS

Where the local legal community Where the local legal community comes together. comes together.

ANNUAL GALA DINNER

Friday 20 November, The Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells ANNUAL GALA DINNER th

th special guest speaker Paul Harris, the Warrior Walker Live music and Friday 20 November, The Spa Hotel Tunbridge Wells

Pre-dinner drinks · Three-course meal · Half a bottle of wine per person Live music and special guest speaker Paul Harris, the Warrior Walker Black tie · Members £95 · Local legal professionals (non-members) £125 Pre-dinner drinks · Three-course meal · Half a bottle of wine per person Black tie · Members £95 · Local legal professionals (non-members) £125 MEMBERSHIP

Invest in your lawyers. Support Law Society. Invest in your your local lawyers. Join individually or arrange membership for your team. Support your local Law Society.

MEMBERSHIP

ONLY

£33 £33

ONLY

per person, per year per person, year Build supportive connections through networking, shared experience and socialper events.

Join individually or arrange membership for your team. Who join? Legal professionals whonetworking, live or workshared in TW and District.and Firms based Build can supportive connections through experience social events. elsewhere can enrol staff who live there. Who can join? Legal professionals who live or work in TW and District. Firms based elsewhere can enrol staff who live there.

Put your business in front of our members. Connect with 260+ local legal professionals our chosen charity. Put your business in front and of support our members. Sponsorship opportunities from £250 - Contact us for options and rates.

Connect with 260+ local legal professionals and support our chosen charity. Annual Dinner headline sponsor Sponsor a networking Sponsorship opportunities from £250 - Contact us for options and rates. event 3 VIP tickets, branding and acknowledgement.

Branded materials and a speaking slot

Annual Dinner headline sponsor

Sponsor a networking event

3 VIP tickets,visibility branding and acknowledgement. Year-round

Branded a speaking slot Sponsormaterials a raffle and prize

Website, LinkedIn and Annual Dinner recognition.

Support our chosen charity at the Annual Dinner

Website, LinkedIn and Annual Dinner recognition.

Support our chosen charity at the Annual Dinner

Year-round visibility

Join us. Support us. Be part of it.

Sponsor a raffle prize

Membership and sponsorship enquiries: visit twtdls.co.uk or email twtdls@gmail.com

Join us. Support us. Be part of it.

Live music & spe

COMMUNITY HERO

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

“The people in our community are so generous” In this month’s Community Heroes feature, Sarah Raine meets Trevor Crawford, who leads the team of volunteers behind the annual Mayor’s Toy Appeal. TREVOR, PLEASE CAN YOU TELL US WHAT THE MAYOR’S TOY APPEAL IS ABOUT?

The Appeal started over 30 years ago to support children in the borough of Tunbridge Wells whose families are in crisis. Each child referred to us by social services, schools, churches and other agencies receives a sack of Christmas presents, bringing them the magic of Christmas and providing respite for their parents and carers. Each year, the number of referrals for children increases, most recently due to the cost-of-living crisis. Last year, with the help of our amazing local community, we provided 650 children with bespoke sacks of gifts.

“

Volunteers are vital to the Mayor’s Toy Appeal. Without them, many children in crisis would have very little at Christmas WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER TO LEAD THE APPEAL?

After a 45-year career in publishing and event management, I retired in 2021, having moved to Tunbridge Wells in 2018. I wanted to get involved in volunteering. I saw that the previous leader of the Appeal was stepping down and was drawn to the idea of helping families in difficulty at Christmas. I’ve always loved Christmas, and I feel very privileged to be involved.

PLEASE TELL US WHAT YOUR ROLE ENTAILS?

My role, along with our wonderful volunteer team, is to liaise with local agencies and receive referrals for families in difficulty. The public campaign opens at the Pop-Up within Royal Victoria Place from 12 November and runs until 16 December. But behind the scenes, throughout the year, we are securing collection points

TREVOR CRAWFORD across town and communicating with organisations that generously provide funds and toys each year. We also have a number of schools, churches and nurseries that plan special giving services and collections. The Mayor and I attend where possible to say thank you.

WHAT DO YOU FIND REWARDING ABOUT THE ROLE?

It’s immensely rewarding to bring a little Christmas magic to local children. It’s also huge fun working with the amazing volunteers. Many work fulltime and give up their time to help the Appeal. Around 20 people give a day or two each week throughout the campaign, as well as a smaller core team who work with me throughout the year. I know I speak for them all when I say that, come Christmas Day, we all have a huge sense of joy knowing that there will be numerous children waking up and opening sacks that have been tailormade for them.

HOW CRITICAL ARE VOLUNTEERS TO THE MAYOR’S TOY APPEAL?

Volunteers are vital to the Appeal. Without them, many children in crisis would have very little at Christmas. Many members of our team have been helping for a number of years, and it’s a delight getting to know them better and making sure they enjoy their time working on the Appeal.

ARE PEOPLE SUPPORTING THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITY MORE? It genuinely surprises me just how

generous people are in our community, even those who have little to give. The level of donations has increased over recent years, which is in part thanks to the generosity of Royal Victoria Place lending us a unit in the centre. We get to meet lots of local people, and many tell us they donate because the Appeal helped them when they were younger. We often leave the Pop-Up feeling very humbled by the stories we hear.

IF PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT THE MAYOR’S TOY APPEAL, HOW CAN THEY FIND OUT MORE?

There are several ways to help, including buying a new gift and dropping it off at the Pop-Up or one of our collection points. These include The Amelia, Hoopers, Maddison’s Residential, St George’s Childcare, Notcutts and Big Yellow Self Storage. Our website has gift ideas or, at the Pop-Up, Hoopers and St George’s Childcare, we have gifting Christmas trees, with gift tags providing ideas of what to buy. Alternatively, you can donate via our website or purchase a gift through our Amazon Wishlist. Please visit www.twmta.co.uk to find out more.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Shareholder claims against directors increase threefold The litigation team at Thackray Williams is receiving increased claims against company directors. Partner Mustafa Sidki explains why – and how do to reduce the risk of costly disputes.

s businesses continue to navigate challenging economic conditions, many directors are facing heightened scrutiny from shareholders. Thackray Williams has seen a threefold increase in claims against directors in the first nine months of this year compared to the same period in 2025. Such claims arise when shareholders believe decisions have not been made in the best interests of the company or when they feel their own interests have been prejudiced, for example if the value of the company has fallen. Concerns may centre on remuneration, expenses, dividends, access to financial information or the use of company assets and funds. When profits are under pressure, issues that may previously have attracted little attention can suddenly come under much closer scrutiny. The good news is that many disputes can be avoided through good governance and clear communication. Directors

should ensure that remuneration, disagreement from escalating into expenses and benefits are formal legal proceedings. properly authorised and Economic pressure does documented. Financial not excuse directors from information should be complying with their legal shared with shareholders duties. But with strong in a timely and transparent governance, transparency manner, while key board and effective communication, decisions should be carefully businesses can significantly recorded to demonstrate reduce the risk of shareholder MUSTAFA SIDKI disputes and remain focused on how and why they were made. It is equally important to maintain a what matters most: clear separation between personal and running and growing a company finances. Even where there is no successful company. wrongdoing, transactions that are poorly If you need help with documented or inadequately explained commercial dispute can create suspicion and damage trust resolution or company among shareholders. governance, please do When disagreements do arise, get in touch. addressing them early is often the www.thackraywilliams.com best course of action. Open dialogue, mustafa.sidki@thackraywilliams.com independent advice and a willingness to 020 8461 6203 resolve concerns before positions become entrenched can help prevent a business

Welcome To Our Family Business, We Are Dedicated To Offering You Not Only Our Best Prices, But Also A Fast Friendly Service. Garden Sleepers ● Decking ● Fencing ● Firewood Construction Timber ● Timber Cladding Wholesale and Retail Customers welcome Fast, Secure Delivery Covering A 30 Mile Radius Of Tunbridge Wells. Same Day Collection Available From Frant.

Feel Free To Pop In And Have A Look Around Our Timber Yard, Or Give Us A Call To Discuss Your Timber Requirements. The Timber Yard, Frant Road, Frant, TN3 9HB

01892 358000 sales@crispintimber.co.uk

www.crispintimber.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

The next step in transforming Tunbridge Wells In his monthly column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID, gives an update on the organisation’s second major public realm project for the town…

s part of RTW Together BID’s commitment to improving the town, we committed to delivering five major public realm projects across the town, one each year throughout our five-year term. Throughout 2026, we have continued to develop our plans for our second major public realm project, following on from the well-received High Street project delivered last year. We decided to focus our second public realm project on Calverley Road, often referred to as the Precinct, as it is such a key centre for retail in the town, but an area that has had limited investment in recent years.

“

Our priority is to support the town in being an attractive destination for the public Our plans included improvements to seating and planting to add natural beauty to our urban landscape – something that has been proven to create more vibrant and inviting public spaces. The plans to upgrade the space, which have been developed by architects Kaner Olette, are being delivered in three phases. The first phase was led by Kent County Council to repair the floor surface around the trees along the street. While they provide a beautiful natural backdrop, their size has caused the brickwork to lift, creating potential trip hazards and ‘public realm scarring’, where previous temporary tarmac repairs look unsightly. With financial support and direction from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) and Royal Tunbridge Wells Together (RTWT), we were able to supplement and enhance the KCC investment, so the repairs not only improved safety but looked much better too. The second phase, which took place in May, involved a new, custom-designed bench supplied by Woodscape and installed in FiveWays, between Pret and Costa.

The unit, which will be planted up shortly now that the heatwave is finally over, has provided an additional 14 seats in one of the town’s key public spaces. It was supplemented by a further six new planters around the area. Happy with the test unit supplied, the final plans for the third phase have now been approved. These will add two additional feature bench areas to Calverley Road: one by the ‘Burton’ façade, opposite Waterstones, and the other at the end of the street, by Card Factory and opposite the upcoming RVP redevelopment. Along with the 14 sets of other smaller seating across the street, the area will benefit from a total capacity of 175 seats for the public to use, compared with just 50 previously. The final scheme will be installed in the new year and will also include new coloured lighting, which will illuminate

all the large trees along the street, transitioning in sync with each other. This is partly intended to support safety and partly to enhance the evening atmosphere, as we expect the adjacent scheme to bring more evening social activity into the town. The project is a great example of collaboration between TWBC, which has directly and, via the Shared Prosperity Fund, funded the majority of the scheme, and RTWT. As a result, the enhanced seating and additional planting will help create an area that should encourage additional visitors and, importantly, increased dwell time. Ultimately, our priority is to support the town in being an attractive destination for the public, which in turn leads to increased spend with our member businesses. However, our members should also be proud that, through the BID (Business Improvement District), they are helping to improve the look of the town and create a greener space through the additional planting. www.rtwtogether.com

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

CALENDAR POSTER A5 LANDSCAPE 2026.pdf

15/09/2026

18:01

Your

11 - 27 Dec

Christmas Calendar Countdown! 26 Nov - 3 Jan

12 Nov - 17 Dec Donate presents for the Mayor's Annual Toy Appeal twmta.co.uk

6 Nov - 30 Dec Ride the magical Polar Express at The Spa Valley Railway

spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Enjoy the magic of ice skating in Calverley Grounds icescapetunbridgewells.com

14 Nov - 23 Dec Visit Santa in his enchanted Cabin at Royal Victoria Place enchantedcabin.co.uk 14 Nov 18 - 23 Dec

12 - 31 Dec The greatest pantomime of them all is at the Assembly Hall Theatre, the clock is ticking so grab your tickets to the ball now! assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Royal Victoria Place Christmas Late Night Shopping. Shop till late 31 Dec See in 2027 in style on The Pantiles live music from Flux Capacitor, top DJs, gourmet food, signature drinks, and a midnight surprise pantilesevents.com

royalvictoriaplace.com

14 Nov 5.30pm - 7pm Rudolph's Runner Xmas Train will lead the Singalong santa parade through town ending with a light show joytothewells.co.uk

14 Nov 11am - 7pm Free all day Festive Fair with community and gifting stalls, two performance stages and lots of funfair rides! joytothewells.co.uk

CMY

Nov - Dec

1 Dec - 3 Jan Free Elf Trail for families to enjoy - ﬁnd the cheeky elves up to no good in a number of windows across Tunbridge Wells joytothewells.co.uk

A guided theatrical tour of RTW incl. food and drink stops - perfect for a work do or with friends joytothewells.co.uk

14 Nov - 24 Dec Admire the decorated window displays created by shops in Royal Victoria Place. Vote for your favourite window by 14/12

3 Dec 5pm - 8pm 15 Nov - 24 Dec Book tickets and jump aboard Rudolph’s Runner, for a 40-minute train adventure through town and help Rudolph ﬁnd his reindeer friends! joytothewells.co.uk

Live entertainment, refreshments and a complimentary gift wrapping service - late night shopping in the High Street, Castle Street & Chapel Place.

joytothewells.co.uk

Dec Check out what's on this December at The Amelia Scott, including the Knitted Christmas tree theamelia.co.uk/whats-on

13 Nov - 24 Dec Curated Boutique Christmas Markets featuring a selection of independent retailers offering unique gifts, artisan products and festive treats pantilesevents.com

Bring the family to Trinity Theatre for the magic, laughter, and wonder of this favourite Christmas story - Book now to be on the nice list! trinitytheatre.net

10 - 13 Dec Visit the beautiful decorated trees at the King Charles the Martyr Church Festival kcmtw.org

14 Nov This year, elves will be taking over Tunbridge Wells from 09:30 in aid of West Kent Mind 5km of festive fun, silliness and Christmas cheer! westkentmind.org.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Paramount Place opens the doors to a new way of living Paramount Place will welcome its first cohort of residents from the end of October. Eileen Leahy meets the development’s General Manager, Martin Garner, and Tim Seddon, CEO of Retirement Villages Group, who have pioneered this distinctive and inspiring independent retirement living community…

aramount Place is ready to open its doors after an intense two-anda-half-year development period, and this publication was granted exclusive access to look around the integrated retirement community ahead of the first residents moving in on October 26. We have followed the progress of this exciting £73 million development since ground was first broken on the site in May 2024. As most readers will know, it was once home to the town’s centrally located ABC cinema, and the new building’s art deco-influenced design reflects the aesthetic style of the former picture house, which was demolished in 2000. Positioned at the top of Mount Pleasant Road, the impressive building has breathed new life into this part of town. Its 167 apartments – available to buy outright or rent, and comprising oneand two-bedroom homes – are spread over eight floors and four blocks: Bewl House, Teise House, Medway House and Broadwater House.

“Buying or renting an apartment at Paramount Place is so much more than just acquiring a home. You are buying into a very special lifestyle.”

A PARAMOUNT PRODUCTION: (L) GM Martin Garner pictured with Tim Seddon, CEO of RVG There are also communal gardens, a restaurant, café and wellbeing space open to the general public, alongside independent retail offerings. “Being part of the local community is key to us and our residents,” explains Tim Seddon, CEO of Retirement Villages Group (RVG), as we sit down to chat at the company’s marketing suite opposite Paramount Place. I’m interviewing him alongside Martin Garner, the development’s General Manager. The pair are visibly delighted with how well the project has progressed since RVG acquired the site in 2021 to develop it into a later-living community for

the over-65s under its Thrive Living brand. “Firstly, we have to praise the work of our construction partners, McAleer & Rushe, who have delivered excellent results on time, for which we are very grateful,” adds Tim. Martin says his team has been working around the clock over the past few weeks to ensure the first residents have a seamless arrival. “We want the residents to feel like they are a part of the community as soon as they step over the threshold.” Another way residents can feel instantly integrated is through CUBIGO – a digital platform used to manage services and residents’ interests. “They can use it to look up daily activities going on in the town, as well as at Paramount Place; to book a restaurant or to communicate with their neighbours. It creates its own social community and helps people feel connected,” smiles Martin. It can even help source a GP for new residents and assist with prescriptions, while local pharmacists will deliver to residents’ doors. Tim adds that CUBIGO has been rolled out across RVG developments around the country. “Once our residents get used to it, then it really does become part of their support system. It makes the transition from a much-loved family home to living at one of our developments - and feeling really part of it - that much easier.”

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

“Moving from a home that you might have lived in for over 40 years is a huge emotional wrench, so we want to ensure people feel completely supported – but still have a good degree of independence if they so desire.” Tim says this is important because residents are not simply taking custodianship of an apartment, but becoming part of a community. “That’s why getting people into the building to have a really good look around is vital, as we want people to have as much of the genuine experience as possible.” He adds that in New Zealand, Australia and America, retirement communities are an established and aspirational choice for older people seeking independent, community-focused living – and the aim is for it to become more the norm here. “Our whole ethos is independent living with support where you need it. You can have as much care as you want or as little as you want.” Paramount Place is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “That means if someone falls over, then someone will be on site to help them. We have all undergone full training and have 24-hour responders.” But the pair are keen to stress that RVG residents across the country – from West Byfleet to Chester and West Malling - are also living active and fulfilling lives. “We have so many people who love making use of the great facilities we offer, as well as benefiting from all that’s right on their doorstep – there is a lot to enjoy.” Before we head off to see the facilities,

“Moving from a family home is a huge emotional wrench, so we want residents to feel completely supported – but still have a good degree of independence if they so desire.” including Yarrow café, bar & restaurant, Aluna wellbeing suite, the library, private dining room, communal courtyard and show homes, Tim explains what makes RVG different. “We are not a developer that just walks off into the sunset with that first sale profit. We’re interested in the fifth sale, the 25th one, etc., which is why we invest in the community. This is a long-

FLEXIBLE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR MOVE Paramount Place offers three ways to make your move, with renting alongside two purchasing options designed to suit different needs.

RENTING

Your home, services and everyday essentials are covered by one clear monthly payment, offering a flexible, premium way to live without the responsibilities of property ownership. Benefits include no property sale delays, no stamp duty or event fees when you leave, and no long-term property responsibility. It may also simplify estate planning.

paid for the property, minus an agreed Event Fee, also known as a ‘deferred management fee’. There are no ongoing Management Fees after two months from serving Notice to Vacate, and RVG manages the resale process, including refurbishment and remarketing.

PURCHASING WITH A GUARANTEED REPAYMENT LEASE

PURCHASING WITH AN OPEN MARKET LEASE

Exclusive to Retirement Villages Group, this option is designed to make buying and selling more straightforward and financially predictable. Management fees are reviewed annually in line with inflation and subsidised until you sell. When you leave, you or your estate receives the full amount originally

The traditional retirement community purchase option. Residents pay the full Management Fee throughout their time at Paramount Place, plus an Event Fee when they leave. The resident or their estate remains responsible for the property and all costs associated with its onward sale.

term investment for us. We don’t sell to investors – just individuals.” Martin says the majority of people who have signed up so far are from the local area and elsewhere in Kent and Sussex. “It’s usually around a 20-mile radius,” he says. “There’s a lady who often pops into the office to have a cup of tea with us and chat. She is so excited about moving in! And we have some great schemes going on, like ‘try before you buy’. “People have the opportunity to experience Paramount Place and really immerse themselves in the environment. They can utilise the restaurant, have a dip in the pool and even stay overnight. It is such an emotional decision – why wouldn’t we offer this?” The mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments is beautifully designed and boasts views of Tunbridge Wells, with some penthouses also featuring private terraces. There is plenty of external space, including an outdoor kitchen for the warmer months. Residents can move their own belongings in – or buy one of the show homes and all its contents outright. “We also employ a company that will go to a resident’s home and work out the kind of décor they can have at Paramount Place based on their existing furniture and accessories. It really is about making everything feel tailored to residents. “Buying or renting an apartment at Paramount Place is so much more than just acquiring a home. You are buying into a very special lifestyle and we are hugely excited about that.” Dates for your diary: Paramount Place Discovery Day 5 November 2026 | 10am–2pm 3 December 2026 | 10am–2pm Marketing Suite Opposite Paramount Place 62 Mount Pleasant Road Tunbridge Wells TN1 1RB

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Why posting more isn’t the answer to getting more clients Great businesses don’t always get the attention they deserve, says Grainne Dunne, founder of The Sidekick Co. Here, the social media specialist and Royal Tunbridge Wells Media Group member looks at why simply creating more content isn’t the answer – and what businesses can learn from the brands putting personality back into their marketing…

ne of the questions I’m asked most often by business owners is, “How often should I be posting on social media?” People query whether it should be three times a week or every day. And they also ask if they should be on LinkedIn and if they need to make Reels on Instagram. My answer is usually that we’re asking the wrong question. You could post every single day and still not give anyone a reason to remember you. Through working with business owners across all sorts of industries, I see people putting themselves under enormous pressure to constantly create more. More posts, more videos, more platforms and more content. And now that AI can help us create all of that faster than ever, it’s tempting to think that the answer is simply to increase the volume. But if everyone can create more content, creating more isn’t what makes you stand out.

WE’RE CRAVING PERSONALITY AGAIN

I think we’re already seeing a really interesting shift in the way successful brands approach social media. Founderled businesses naturally have an advantage because there’s a person behind the brand, but even some of the UK’s biggest businesses are finding ways to create that same human connection. Take Currys. Rather than filling its feeds exclusively with televisions, laptops and promotional offers, it has built a distinctive social media personality using the people who actually work in its stores. The staff are funny, sometimes slightly ridiculous and, importantly, recognisable. The result is a brand that feels like it has an actual personality rather than a corporate marketing department speaking at you. Then there’s Kathryn Turner, Director of Product Development at M&S Food. At the time of writing, Kathryn has

Social expert and RTWMG member Grainne Dunne

“

Your best ideas probably aren’t sitting in a content calendar waiting to be invented. They’re happening around you every day amassed more than 90,000 followers on Instagram and 126,000 on TikTok on her own pages, largely by taking people behind the scenes of the brand she works for. She walks around stores introducing new products, shares her favourites and introduces us to the people behind them. It isn’t excessively polished or complicated, and that’s partly why I think it works. We’re not just following M&S anymore. We’re following Kathryn from M&S. She’s become a recognisable person behind an enormous brand and, for smaller

founder-led businesses, I think there’s a huge lesson in that. You already have something these enormous brands are actively trying to create: a real person at the heart of your business. The challenge is actually letting people see them. You don’t need to become an influencer This is usually the point where I can almost see some business owners backing away slowly, imagining I’m going to tell them they need to film themselves talking to camera every morning. I’m really not. There are so many ways to build personality into a brand. Look at smaller founder-led businesses such as Get Baked. Its distinctive humour and tone of voice are part of the experience of the brand. You don’t need the founder delivering a talking-head Reel every day to know there are very real people behind it. You can use your team. You can have a distinctive sense of humour. You can share opinions about your industry, tell

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

stories about things that happen within the business or show people what happens behind the scenes. What matters is that if I consume your content regularly, I should eventually start to understand who you are and what you stand for. Your best content is probably already happening This is also where I think businesses make content far harder than it needs to be. Your best ideas probably aren’t sitting in a content calendar waiting to be invented. They’re happening around you every day. It’s the question a customer asked this morning, the conversation you had at a networking event, the thing that went wrong, the reason you do something differently from your competitors or the opinion you find yourself explaining again and again.

Why employment compliance starts with the contract October’s employment-law changes show that compliance cannot be reduced to a last-minute amendment. For business leaders, the test is whether everyday practices match their contracts and policies. From 1 October, the time limit for most employment tribunal claims rose from three to six months. That gives issues longer to surface and reinforces the value of resolving concerns early, fairly and consistently. The next milestone is 30 October. Employers will have a legal duty to take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment and extending across third parties, which could include general members of the public. A revised policy alone will not demonstrate preparedness. Organisations will need to show that they have assessed risks, trained managers, created credible reporting routes and responded properly to concerns. There are also major changs to trade union laws with effect from 30 October. Trade unions will gain a statutory right to request access to workplaces of employers with 21 or more staff. This is so they can promote their membership services and meet with their current members.

Grainne at the Mums in Business Tonbridge Launch Party, July 2026 AI can absolutely help you turn those ideas into content. I use it myself and think it’s an incredible tool. But you have to give it something worth talking about first. And that’s the bit only you can provide. So perhaps instead of asking, “How often should I post?”, there’s a better question: “If someone followed my business for the next month, would they actually get to know us?” Because in a world where creating content has never been easier, creating more isn’t necessarily going to get you noticed. Giving people something genuinely human to remember just might. Discover more about how Grainne can help you and your business by visiting: Website: www.thesidekickco.co.uk LinkedIn: grainne-dunne-socialmedia Instagram: the.sidekick.co

ABOUT ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS MEDIA GROUP Royal Tunbridge Wells Media Group (RTWMG) connects trusted local media, marketing and creative professionals around Tunbridge Wells and the South East. It is a free, friendly group of agency owners, freelancers, in-house teams and content creators — sharing work, advice and useful introductions. For more information visit www.rtwmg.com

For growing businesses, this is not an HR checklist. An unclear job title, outdated probation clause or incomplete disciplinary process can turn a preventable problem into a costly disaster. It consumes leaders’ time, weakens trust, affects reputation and increases legal risk. Employment contracts are often a practical starting point. They set expectations on pay, hours, place of work, notice, family leave and conduct. However, a contract that has been copied forward for years may not support today’s workforce, management approach or legal duties. At Forrest Group, we encourage businesses to use October as a reset: join up contracts, policies, manager capability and reporting processes, rather than patching each change in isolation. Good compliance should help people make sound decisions with confidence, consistency and genuine care that lasts, not sit unread in a folder. To help businesses take that first step, Forrest Group is offering a complementary employment document review. We will help you identify whether your documentation needs attention and where to prioritise action. Get in touch to arrange your free review.

01892 726060 or sophie@theforrestgroup.co.uk.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

New vision for Palm Court revealed at Royal Victoria Place Tunbridge Wells Borough Council showcases plans for the future of its shopping centre, with a vision to transform it into a destination where people can shop, eat, meet and enjoy leisure activities…

ew images give residents, businesses and visitors a first look at proposals to transform Palm Court at Royal Victoria Place into a brighter, more welcoming and flexible space. The plans have already received planning permission and will now be considered as part of the Council’s decision-making process in the coming weeks, with a final decision due at Full Council on 11 November. The proposals focus on modernising Palm Court, improving accessibility and creating a flexible space that can accommodate a range of uses and events. They form part of a wider vision to help Royal Victoria Place evolve from a traditional shopping centre into a destination where people can shop, meet, eat, spend time and enjoy leisure activities. The plans would also create larger retail units, improve facilities for visitors and bring the existing basement space back into active use through a new leisure offer – creating more reasons for people to visit and spend time in the town centre.

Palm Court as it is today Palm Court has changed very little since Royal Victoria Place opened in the 1980s. The existing roof is reaching the end of its life, while the space can feel dark and dated compared with modern retail and leisure destinations.

A BRIGHTER AND MORE WELCOMING SPACE

The proposed design would introduce a new roof, bringing more natural light into Palm Court. The existing basement opening, downward escalator and scenic lift would be removed, creating a more open, accessible and flexible central space for visitors to enjoy. The aim is to create a space that feels welcoming, contemporary and fit for the future. The proposals include new toilets, with family-friendly and fully accessible

Future image of Palm Court (looking towards Next at Lower Mall level)

“

The proposals would create a flexible space where people can meet, relax and spend time. The aim is to encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy everything the town centre has to offer

want to visit regularly, rather than simply a place to shop.

A PLACE TO SPEND TIME – MORE THAN A SHOPPING DESTINATION

The proposals would create a flexible space where people can meet, relax and spend time. The aim is to encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy everything the town centre has to offer. These proposals form part of the

facilities in a more convenient location. The improvements are designed to make Palm Court more welcoming and easier to use for everyone who visits.

A SPACE THAT CAN ADAPT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

The redesigned Palm Court could host a variety of events, activities and exhibitions, creating opportunities to bring more life and energy into the centre. The flexible space could help make Royal Victoria Place a destination that people Future image of flexible space for events and activities at Lower Mall level

Proposed female WCs The Council’s wider vision to ensure Royal Victoria Place continues to evolve and meet the needs of residents, businesses and visitors. By creating a modern, more flexible Palm Court, improving accessibility, attracting new retailers and bringing the basement space back into use for leisure, the plans aim to support a vibrant and successful town centre for years to come. The committee reports and supporting papers are available to view here: www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk

HAVE YOUR SAY:

We’d love to hear from local businesses. Please email your thoughts to lizzie.goodwin@tunbridgewells.gov.uk.

Image by johnknightphotography.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Making a world of difference Scott Rogers is the CEO of World in Need. He and his wife recently moved to Tunbridge Wells after 12 years overseas, working in education in Washington DC, Prague and Chicago, and most recently in humanitarian work in Cairo, Egypt. Here, Scott explains the work of the local charity and how our community can get involved…

orld in Need is a local charity based in Crowborough, founded in 1991 with a clear vision and a heart to help some of the most vulnerable people across Africa and Asia. Since then, we have supported children and families in a range of ways, including feeding programmes, medical care, emergency relief and agricultural projects. Our greatest impact can be seen in the young lives transformed through our schools and children’s homes. These serve some of the poorest families in their communities, who would otherwise be unable to afford an education for their children. Thanks to our generous supporters, thousands of children’s lives are being transformed each year.

“

We are a local charity with a global reach, helping some of the world’s most vulnerable families In Sierra Leone, our Global Family leader, Tamba Mbayo, leads Adullam Missions School. He joyfully shares countless stories of meeting former students who have gone on to become doctors, pilots, engineers, businesspeople, teachers and nurses. Many grew up in farming families with very limited resources and have helped break a cycle of poverty stretching back generations. Today, the school provides an education for 350 students each year, and its numbers continue to grow. Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Claudaline Muhindo and her late husband, Desiree, founded Hope School, which serves around 350 students in Goma. In an area affected by oppression and violence from M23 rebels, Hope School brings light to its community. Its work extends beyond education. Tailoring programmes help single mothers learn a trade, while a feeding programme has supported malnourished infants and their mothers for almost 20 years. The team also runs an agricultural programme and periodically arranges

medical care for the local community. Claudaline continues this work despite threats to her life from the rebels. In Bangladesh, Home of the Champions is a children’s home for children who have been orphaned or whose parents cannot afford to provide for them. The home is led by our Global Family leader, Alfred Biswas, a man of great compassion and practical action. It provides a loving, nurturing environment where children have their own beds, hot meals every day, transport to and from school and, most importantly, the opportunity for a brighter future. Recently, two students graduated from high school and are now starting university. These are just a few examples of the impact made possible by our generous supporters and donors, many of whom live in Tunbridge Wells or Crowborough. We currently lead projects in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and the Philippines. We are primarily supported by individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of others. There are several ways to get involved, from regular or oneoff donations to supporting our feeding programme, where just £5 helps feed two children for a month. Sponsoring a child for £28 per month helps cover their education, food, school resources and essential medical needs.

Sponsors can exchange letters with their sponsored child, receive photographs and follow the difference their support makes. When urgent needs arise, we also launch appeals. Last month, the tube well at our children’s home in India broke down and needed urgent repairs. Thankfully, we raised all the funds needed in less than 24 hours. You can now see the children enjoying the restored water supply on our Instagram page. We are also excited to build direct partnerships between local businesses and our Global Family projects. These partnerships give businesses the opportunity to get to know the people they support, see the impact of their contributions and become involved in a variety of ways. At World in Need, 90 per cent or more of designated donations are sent directly to our overseas projects and families, helping supporters make a meaningful difference.

HOW YOUR BUSINESS CAN HELP: If you or your company would like to explore what supporting World in Need could look like, please feel free to contact me at scott.rogers@worldinneed.org.uk. To find out more about World in Need visit: www.worldinneed.org.uk Socials: Facebook/Instagram @worldinneeduk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Be more resilient Welcome to Moving Business Forward with DCA, a monthly column exploring the human side of work, leadership, community and change.

esilience. Defined as the ability to overcome adversity, adapt, bounce back from challenges or even thrive despite setbacks. We can apply resilience to both the human element of business and the practical reality of running one. And in today’s world, you need a healthy dose of both just to muddle through where we are currently at. We’ve heard a lot about resilience over the years. I talk to my consulting and coaching clients about it regularly, particularly when we’re looking at how to navigate periods of change, uncertainty or challenge. But right now, resilience feels less like a nice-to-have leadership quality and much more like a necessity. If you’re currently employed by, operating or owning a business in the UK, as I write this in early October 2026, the landscape, and certainly the horizon, isn’t looking the brightest. There’s a looming government Budget, increased costs for businesses, a challenging economy and a jobs market that, for many, can feel more like running

a medieval gauntlet just to secure consideration for an interview. I could go on, but you get the picture. And you know what? I can understand why people are feeling uncertain. Now, I am forever the optimist, sometimes much to the chagrin of those in my orbit, but I genuinely believe there is opportunity to be found in every moment. Sometimes that opportunity means retooling your business, finding a niche or challenging yourself on where time, money and energy are being spent. Sometimes it means developing a new skill, changing direction or simply becoming more comfortable with being uncomfortable. Adversity has a way of forcing us to look at things differently. And sometimes that can be exactly what we need. But I also think we need to acknowledge something that often gets missed in conversations about resilience: things can feel tough. We can spend so much time talking about growth, transformation and pushing through challenges that we forget it is perfectly reasonable to stop and recognise when something is hard. So feel all

the feels. Acknowledge the frustration, uncertainty or stress. Spend a moment there.Then decide what you’re going to do with that energy. Because resilience isn’t about pretending everything is fine. It isn’t about blindly pushing forward or ignoring the impact difficult periods can have on us. It is about recognising the challenge in front of you and developing the ability to move through it. And like any skill, resilience can be developed. So how do we actually build it? That’s where I’m going next. In next month’s Moving Business Forward, I’ll share some of the practical strategies I use to build resilience, reset perspective and keep moving when things feel uncertain. For now, stay well and until next time! - Christian Christian Mills is the Founder of DCA International, which brings together consulting, leadership coaching and the DCA Think Tank. If you’re interested in getting in touch, talking about leadership or finding a better way of working, email us at think@dcainternational.co.uk.

How resilient is your business? Is your team? Change tests more than strategy. It tests your leadership, your people, your culture and the way your organisation works.

Take a fresh look at your business with DCA. www.dcainternational.co.uk | 020 8159 6932 | info@dcainternational.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Navigating AI overwhelm Jamie Dixon, founder of VAYRO, a specialist AI management company, explains why businesses should resist the noise around artificial intelligence and focus instead on understanding how to use it safely and effectively

HOW SMART COMPANIES ARE PROTECTING THEMSELVES

f you run a business, you have probably felt it this autumn. Another headline, another warning, another expert telling you that everything is about to change and that you are already behind. You close the laptop with a knot in your stomach and a nagging question: should I be doing something, and if so, what? I want to offer a calmer view. AI is genuinely powerful. It is also being talked about in a way that can make it feel bigger, faster and scarier than the evidence supports. Both things are true, and holding them together is the skill of the moment.

The businesses handling this well are not necessarily the ones moving fastest. They are the ones moving deliberately. A few habits keep appearing: 1. Know what your people are using. Staff are often using AI tools already, sometimes without telling anyone. Find out which ones, then agree what is and is not acceptable. 2. Protect your data. Be clear about what should never be pasted into a public tool, including client details, contracts and financial information. 3. Keep a human in the loop. AI can draft, summarise and analyse, but a person should check anything that reaches a customer or informs a decision.

WHY IT FEELS SO LOUD RIGHT NOW

Fear sells. Media outlets know that dread drives clicks, and a story about machines taking your job will always outperform one about a bookkeeper saving six hours a month. Add an industry with enormous financial incentives to keep AI at the centre of every conversation, and you get a constant drumbeat. A commentary in the Asia Times makes a similar point, arguing that the apparent danger of AI has become part of its selling point. The timing matters too. The two largest AI developers are both heading for the stock market. Anthropic filed confidentially in June and is reportedly targeting late October or, more likely, November. OpenAI is reported to have filed too, and is now expected to list in 2027. A listing is a moment when every claim about AI gets amplified, from bold promises to dramatic warnings.

A FIRST STEP TOWARDS PROTECTION

There is encouraging news too. On September 29, leaders from Meta, Nvidia, Google, OpenAI, xAI and Anthropic met President Trump at the White House and signed an accord on AI safeguards. Each company commits to internal oversight, dedicated teams, independent external audits and independent board committees to review the results. It is important to be precise about what this is. It is a voluntary agreement rather than a treaty, carries no penalties, and critics are already asking whether selfpolicing goes far enough. But the accord recognises that these steps may in time be written into law or regulation. That is the direction we hope to see it

4. Check your cover. Ask your insurer and legal adviser how AI use affects your policies and obligations. Norton Rose Fulbright has highlighted the need for litigation readiness.

“

JAMIE DIXON

Education on AI should not sit behind a paywall while the world is changing evolve towards: protections that cover everyone, from the largest developers to the smallest business using their tools. Until then, the responsibility to learn and prepare sits with us.

EDUCATION IS THE ANTIDOTE

Think back to the early days of the internet, email or online banking. Each arrived with real fear and risk. Each became ordinary once people understood how it worked, where it helped and where it needed care. Nobody was reassured by being told to relax. They were reassured by learning. That is the heart of what we do at VAYRO. We are an AI management company, and we believe the most valuable thing a business owner can build right now is understanding.

5. Train, then trust. A short, practical session on how these tools work can reduce more risk than a policy document nobody reads.

A CALM PLACE TO START

If you are feeling overwhelmed, the answer is not to read more headlines. Take one small, practical step instead. Spend an hour learning how the tools work. Talk to your team about how they use AI. Pick one repetitive task and test whether AI can help with it safely. We built the VAYRO Compass to help people find their bearings at exactly this point, and we offer many free tools alongside it because education should not sit behind a paywall while the world is changing. AI is powerful, and it deserves respect. It does not deserve panic. You do not need to be an expert by Friday. You need to take the next step with a clear head. You are not behind. Most of us are still working it out – and there is a clear path through the age of AI. Feel free to contact the team at VAYRO to understand how to create a plan for your business: www.vayro.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

LISI Artisan Deli | European A Little Taste of Europe on Camden Road Patisserie & Coffee House

LISI Artisan Deli | European Patisserie & Coffee House Discover your new favourite spot in Tunbridge Wells, where coffee, tempting pastries and a Discover your good new favourite spot in Tunbridge Wells, warm welcome come together. where good coffee, tempting pastries and a warm welcome come together. From buttery croissants and indulgent cakes to savoury börek freshlycakes prepared From buttery Turkish croissants and and indulgent to savoury sandwiches, something for sandwiches, every craving. Turkish börek there’s and freshly prepared there’s something for every craving. Pop in for a morning coffee, catch up with friends overinafor sweet treat, orcoffee, pick up something Pop a morning catch up withdelicious friends over to take Ourupcosy little delidelicious is readyto totake a sweet treat,away. or pick something you. to welcome you. away. Our cosy littlewelcome deli is ready Come for a coffee. Stayfor for aalittle LISI moment. Come coffee.

Stay for a little LISI moment.

115 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells Eat in or takeaway 115 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells Eat in or takeaway

RECRUITMENT

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

Recruitment support that goes above and beyond Finding candidates is an important part of recruitment. But when an appointment proves difficult, the most useful support may begin much earlier – and continue much further – than the shortlist, advise the experts at TN Recruits…

he UK recruitment market has shifted. Candidate availability has increased while vacancies have fallen from their post-pandemic highs. Yet specialist positions can still prove difficult to fill, including across Kent, Sussex and Surrey. When that happens, the answer is not necessarily to generate more CVs. Recently, TN Recruits Managing Director Neil Simmons and Emma Moss, Director of Legal Recruitment, visited a longstanding Sussex law firm that had been experiencing difficulties recruiting for specialist positions. Rather than taking another vacancy brief, they spent time reviewing what had

“

At TN Recruits, introducing suitable people remains fundamental to what we do. But our responsibility to a client does not begin when we send a CV or end when an offer is accepted happened during previous recruitment processes: the interviews, the questions being asked, how responses were assessed and whether managers were getting the information they needed to make a well-evidenced decision. The conversation led to practical interview guidance tailored to the firm and the positions it recruits for. It is one example of what recruitment support can look like when a consultant knows a client beyond the vacancies they have placed with them. That understanding is also built outside an active recruitment process. Our consultants visit workplaces, take part in local business networks and build relationships across Kent, Sussex and Surrey. Being present in those communities gives us valuable context around how organisations are developing and what employers and

TN RECRUITS FOUNDER Neil Simmons candidates are experiencing. For another business, the support might look different. It could involve defining what is genuinely needed before a job description is written, considering how responsibilities should sit within a team, advising on interview structure or sharing candidate feedback to understand why a process is not producing an appointment. Support can continue after an offer, too. Notice periods, counteroffers and the weeks before somebody joins all create points where an experienced recruiter can provide context and maintain communication between both parties. The CIPD recommends structured interviews, with candidates asked consistent questions and assessed against

agreed criteria. The principle is useful beyond interview technique: establish what you need to know, gather relevant evidence and make decisions against what the role actually requires. At TN Recruits, introducing suitable people remains fundamental to what we do. But our responsibility to a client does not begin when we send a CV or end when an offer is accepted. Being closely connected to the business communities around us strengthens the knowledge and perspective we bring. The service itself goes further: understanding each organisation, being available when advice is needed and contributing wherever our experience can improve the recruitment process. Because the value of a recruiter should not be measured only by who they find, but by what they contribute throughout the process. GET IN TOUCH: www.tnrecruits.com 01892 571105

RECRUITMENT LEGAL NEWS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2026

RTW Together BID welcomes two new team members

TW Together Business Improvement District (BID) welcomed two new members to the team last month. Tara Kwak joins as Project Officer, to support Grace Simpson, Project Manager and Alex Green, CEO. David Ross joins as Maintenance and Support Officer to manage BID activities, including graffiti removal and general upkeep, across the town. Tara brings more than 15 years’ experience as an independent business development consultant, working across a wide range of business sectors, to RTW Together. She also contributed to the successful London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic bid and later served as City Operations Manager for the Olympic Park in the lead-up to, and during, the Games. Earlier in her career, Tara was Director of an employer-led Further Education College in London and held roles in local authorities in East Sussex and London.

TARA KWAK

DAVID ROSS

“We look forward to being able to deliver further initiatives to benefit our businesses and the town as a whole.” Grace Simpson, Project Manager comments: “Tara’s passion and drive to use her skills and experience to strengthen the BID has already made a positive impression on our members. We look forward to being able to

deliver further initiatives to benefit our businesses and the town as a whole.” David Ross moved to the UK from South Africa in 2003, and after a 16-year career in audio visual, video conferencing and business communication technology sales, David started a garden maintenance business in 2019. Following the successful sale of his business at the end of 2025, David was looking for new opportunities locally in Tunbridge Wells and saw an advert online for the Maintenance and Support Officer role at Royal Tunbridge Wells Together, which seemed a perfect match for what he was seeking. Alex Green, CEO adds: “David is making a huge impact already in his new role, and we look forward to utilising his extensive skills in the role to contribute to Royal Tunbridge Wells Together's success in ensuring the town is a vibrant, safe and attractive place to live, work and socialise.” www.rtwtogether.com

FREE SOCIAL MEDIA AUDIT FOR ADVERTISERS It’s concerning to note that while 90% of local businesses depend on social media as part of their marketing success, 43% of small businesses don’t measure their social media ROI*. At JJL Media & Marketing, we understand that SMEs juggle numerous responsibilities, including managing their social media accounts. To help your marketing work harder, we're pleased to offer all current advertisers in the Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine a complimentary Social Media Audit. This free service aims to enhance your online presence and ensure that your social media efforts produce effective, relevant and measurable results. To book your free audit please contact Sophie Blackburn-Waters:

sophie@jjlmedia.co.uk. * 90% of small businesses leverage social media in their marketing strategy – Talkwalker * 43% of small businesses don’t measure their social media ROI – Capsule CRM

FOOD & DRINK INTERVIEW

Autumn, Diwali and The Festive Season Essence at The Pantiles by Atul Kochhar

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, our kitchen comes alive with deep comforting flavours of Indian Autumn, Diwali and The Festive Season. We would love to invite you to explore our new dishes full of the richness of pan-Indian cuisine. Come and taste the season with us!

Essence at the Pantiles by Atul Kochhar,

62-64 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN

www.essencerestaurants.co.uk

The TW Edit AUGUST 2026

T W EDIT the

October 2026

THE PIG at Bridge Place near Canterbury, Kent

dining ● travel ● lifestyle ● property

A Pig on the Pantiles We discover the plans one of the country’s most celebrated boutique hotel brands has for Tunbridge Wells

A CUT ABOVE

Meet Laurel Staple, acclaimed hair stylist with a world class pedigree

RAISE A GLASS

Wine expert James Viner raises a glass to Stopham Vineyard’s first red

HOT PROPERTY

All the latest from those in the know where you should buy and when

Celebrate Christmas Day with us this year!

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

CHRISTMAS DAY MENU STARTERS toasted cashew nuts & drizzled with a tangy pomegranate dressing topped with toasted ciabatta croutes (G/F on request) SMOKED SALMON, PRAWN AND CREAM CHEESE ROULADE Served with toasted granary bread, pickled vegetables & a mixed leaf salad (G/F on request) VENISON & CHESTNUT TERRINE – Slow cooked pork, venison & chestnuts pressed into a terrine mould, served with an orange & cranberry compote & toasted ciabatta croute (GF on request) ROASTED BEETROOT & CREAM CHEESE LAYER – Slices of roasted beetroot layered with a smooth walnut & chive cream cheese, with maple roasted walnuts & baby herb salad (G/F, VE)

MAINS TRADITIONAL LOCAL ROAST TURKEY – Local turkey served with traditional cheese, sage & onion Yorkshire pudding & our chefs rich red wine gravy (G/F on request) PEPPER CRUSTED 28 DAY HUNG ROAST SIRLOIN OF BEEF Roasted sirloin of aged British beef served with herby roast potatoes, mixed seasonal (G/F on request, beef served pink – please ask if you would like more well done) served with a creamy herb sauce VEGETABLE PITHIVIER – Roasted squash, sauteed spinach & caramelized onions baked

ALL MAINS ARE SERVED WITH A SIDE OF BRUSSEL SPROUTS, CARROT AND SWEDE MASH, BRAISED RED CABBAGE, CAULIFLOWER CHEESE & HONEY ROASTED PARSNIPS

DESSERTS TRADITIONAL HANDMADE CHRISTMAS PUDDING Traditional steamed dessert of dried fruit, spices & brandy served with a velvety brandy sauce & brandy butter (V) (Can be G/F on request) SPICED GINGERBREAD & CHOCOLATE MARQUIS – Layers of spiced gingerbread and a rich chocolate mousse accompanied by a fruity apple compote topped with a chocolate dome & accompanied by a warm cherry sauce (V) BLOOD ORANGE CREME BRULEE – A light creamy blood orange creme brulee, served with a home-made Cointreau shortbread & blood orange compote (V) BLACKBERRY CHEESECAKE A crisp gluten free biscuit base topped with a sweetened vegan cream cheese & blackberry topping, served with a blackberry gel & topped with spun sugar (VE, G/F)

ADDITIONAL CHEESE & PORT SELECTION OF CHEESES – Selection of cheeses, Mature Cheddar, Creamy French Brie, West Country Stilton & Smoked Applewood - served with all the accompaniments plus a glass of Port £9(per person)

COFFEE & TEA – SERVED WITH MINCE PIES

COURSES

£120

PER PERSON

DEPOSITS

We require a £20 per head deposit at the time of booking to secure your table, with a pre-order and full payment being made by the 1st December. A discretionary 10% service charge will be added.

TO BOOK

T: 01732 810360 Shipbourne, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 9PE Email: enquiries@thechaser.co.uk Web: www.thechaser.co.uk

Celebrate Christmas Day with us this year!

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

CHRISTMAS DAY MENU STARTERS

whipped cream, served with a chunk of fresh baker’s bread (V) (GF on request) CHICKEN & DUCK LIVER PARFAIT – Served with toasted brioche and apple chutney (made from our own apples from the beer garden) (GF on request) SPICY VEGETABLE TEMPURA – Mixed crunchy vegetables coasted in a light spicy tempura batter, deep fried and served with a garlic ginger & soy dipping sauce (VE) (GF on request) CLASSIC SEAFOOD COCKTAIL – Prawn, Lobster & Crab, served with baby gem lettuce, a spicy Marie Rose sauce topped with a quenelle of fresh white crab meat & fresh baker’s bread (GF on request)

MAINS TRADITIONAL LOCAL ROAST TURKEY – Served with roast potatoes, pigs in blankets, bread sauce, cranberry sauce and gravy PAN FRIED WILD SEA BASS – Served with celeriac puree, samphire, with (optional) lardons of Award-winning bacon, braised baby onions and a beurre blanc sauce HOMEMADE MUSHROOM WELLINGTON Served with wild mushrooms and a barley velouté sauce (VE) PEPPER CRUSTED ROAST SIRLOIN OF BRITISH BEEF, HUNG FOR 28 DAYS – Served with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and gravy ALL MAINS ARE SERVED WITH BRUSSEL SPROUTS, CARROT AND SWEDE MASH, BRAISED RED CABBAGE, CAULIFLOWER CHEESE, AND HONEY ROASTED PARSNIPS

DESSERTS TRADITIONAL HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS PUDDING Served with brandy sauce and brandy butter CHOCOLATE 3 WAYS – A dark chocolate fondant with a rich chocolate and salted caramel centre; a white chocolate and raspberry frozen parfait; a milk chocolate orange Artic roll served with a warm chocolate fudge sauce BAKED CUSTARD TART – Served with a small Eton Mess, meringue, fresh raspberries and cream CINNAMON POACHED PEARS – Served with a vegan yoghurt and a mulled wine sorbet (VE)

ADDITIONAL CHEESE & PORT SELECTION OF CHEESES – Served with all the accompaniments plus a glass of Port £9(per person)

COFFEE & TEA – SERVED WITH MINCE PIES

COURSES

£120

PER PERSON

DEPOSITS

We require a £20 per head deposit at the time of booking to secure your table, with a pre-order and full payment being made by the 1st December. A discretionary 10% service charge will be added.

TO BOOK

T: 01892 870318

Chiddingstone Causeway, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8JJ Email: enquiries@thelittlebrownjug.co.uk Web: www.thelittlebrownjug.co.uk

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

A September reset with the Small Business Supper Club Women running small businesses across Kent came together for a morning of good food, thoughtful conversation and fresh inspiration at the latest Small Business Supper Club gathering…

he Small Business Supper Club brought together women running businesses across Kent for a September Reset brunch on 24 September, hosted at the beautiful Shoreham home of Maria Assia from The Colourful Brand. Co-founded by Sarah Coleman of Beyond The Table and Charlotte Butterworth of The Needy Greedy, the club creates relaxed opportunities to connect over good food, without name badges, awkward pitching or pressure to work the room. With a guided session led by Beth from Fresh Air Thinking, guests took time to reflect on their achievements, consider what success means to them and look ahead to the coming months. A delicious brunch prepared by Charlotte provided the perfect setting for thoughtful conversation and new connections. “Our hope is always that women leave

THREE'S THE MAGIC NUMBER: Charlotte (L) and Sarah (M), founders of Small Business Supper Club pictured with Beth from Fresh Air thinking

Images by: Maria Assia of The Colourful Brand

feeling a little lighter, encouraged and connected.” “The feedback has been wonderful,” says Sarah. “Our hope is always that women leave feeling a little lighter, encouraged and connected. This event captured exactly why we started the club.” The club welcomes women who own or run small local businesses across Kent and warmly invites new faces to register for an upcoming event. “Across two years, we’ve now welcomed over 200 independent business owners to our events and are already looking ahead to a busy event schedule for 2027,” adds Sarah. The next gathering takes place on 18 November, with details and booking available at www.beyondthetable.co.uk

A taste of Christmas A TOUCH OF ZORBA

CHARITY INTERVIEW

Gather your favourite people and celebrate the festive season with delicious meze, charcoal-grilled favourites and cocktails in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Zorba.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES Make your work celebration one to remember.

FESTIVE GET-TOGETHERS Bring friends and family together around our table.

FOOD, COCKTAILS & GOOD COMPANY Everything you need for a memorable festive evening.

MAKE IT A ZORBA CHRISTMAS Enquire now for festive group bookings. hello@zorbamezegrill.com Monday To Thursday Throughout September & October. zorbamezegrill

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

zorba_mezegrill

FOOD & DRINK INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

“We can’t wait to begin our next adventure on The Pantiles” One of the biggest stories to break in Tunbridge Wells during 2026 was the news that THE PIG is finally coming to Tunbridge Wells. After plans changed at its original desired site of Groombridge Place, the luxury hotel group has now found its perfect premises on The Pantiles. Here the team tell us all about their plans and why they’re so excited to be a part of the town’s legendary hospitality scene…

s THE PIG celebrates 15 years with nine country houses and a pub, we are also focusing on what lies ahead. Over the last couple of years we have searched high and low for the right building to become the next chapter in THE PIG story. We've explored countless old buildings, each with its own story to tell. So, after months of plotting and finding ourselves feeling very much at home in it, Team PIG has finally got the keys to the next chapter in the story…

“

Old buildings have always been where our story begins. This one simply sits at the heart of one of Britain’s most beautiful historic promenades Many will know there had been hopes to bring THE PIG to Groombridge Place. Whilst that wasn't meant to be, the group couldn't quite shake the feeling that this corner of Kent still had a place in our story. As it happens this area is still in THE PIG plan with the next adventure now beginning on The Pantiles. The acquisition of an elegant 18th-century Georgian building on The Pantiles, currently known as The Tunbridge Wells Hotel, is a very exciting new chapter for the nation's favourite boutique country hotel collection. For generations The Tunbridge

Wells Hotel has sat at the heart of one of Kent's most characterful addresses. A place where people have gathered, stayed, celebrated and watched the world go by. For centuries, people have come to The Pantiles to eat, drink, stay and spend time together. THE PIG family thought that sounded rather familiar... Old buildings have always been where THE PIG story begins. Most just happen to have been tucked away at the end of country lanes. This one simply sits at the heart of one of Britain's most beautiful historic promenades. The more time we have spent there, the more convinced we became that this was somewhere we could call home. For those who know the group well, the extensive team behind every PIG believes the best places are shaped by the people around them. Knowing who's growing their tomatoes, buying fish from the boats coming

into Kent's harbours, cooking what the seasons tell them to cook - not the other way around. Filling old buildings with warmth, generous food, comfortable beds and interesting people - believing the best conversations usually happen around a table. Tunbridge Wells is by no means about replacing what THE PIGs have always done. It's about building on it. Taking everything we've learnt over the last fifteen years and seeing how it feels in a place with a slightly different rhythm. The countryside has always encouraged guests and staff to slow down. The Pantiles has always had a habit of bringing people together. Perhaps that's what drew us there in the first place. Our team's vision for the new Tunbridge Wells PIG is it’ll be somewhere to grab a coffee on your way into work, somewhere for a long lunch that drifts into the afternoon, somewhere to meet friends for a drink and end up staying for dinner, somewhere to prop up the bar a little longer than you intended, and somewhere to stay the night if the evening runs away with you. There's still plenty to do before THE PIG welcomes its first guests. Over the coming months our team will be uncovering the building's stories, rolling up our sleeves, getting to know more brilliant growers, farmers, fishermen and producers, and slowly bringing the latest project to life. Different? Yes. Less PIG? Absolutely not… www.thepighotel.com

FOOD & DRINK LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

CHRISTMAS PARTIES AT THE MOUNT EDGUCMBE

Eat, Drink & Be Merry

There’s something rather special about Christmas at The Mount Edgcumbe! Gather around the table with family, friends or colleagues, warm up beside the open fire and settle in for delicious festive food. Available from Friday 20th November to Saturday 26th December 2026 (excluding Sundays & Christmas Day) for groups of 9 - 20 people. Please note our festive parties are hosted in our upstairs private dining rooms located via stairs.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES & GROUP DINING SET MENU 2 Courses £37.50 | 3 Courses £44.50 Complimentary Glass of Prosecco or £3 extra for a Glass of Chapel Down Brut

STARTERS Sweet Potato & Rosemary Soup Mushroom & Tarragon Pâté Smoked Salmon & Pickled Beetroot Chicken & Cranberry Terrine MAINS Roast Turkey Roast Gammon Cranberry Nut Roast Olive Tapenade Crusted Cod Loin Wild Mushroom & Chestnut Bourguignon DESSERTS Homemade Christmas Pudding Festive Spiced Apple Bread & Butter Pudding Pear & Cinnamon Crumble Chocolate & Orange Crème Brûlée Ice Creams Fruity Sorbets Selection of Local Cheeses (£3 supplement)

Make A Christmas Of It

Private Dining Rooms | No Room Hire Charge | £10 per person deposit | Pre-Order Required To view the Full Menu and Terms & Conditions please visit our website www.themountedgcumbe.com Call us on 01894 618854 or email us at hello@themountedgcumbe.com for any enquiries

FOOD & DRINK INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Fall for these pinot noirs this autumn The revered but finicky Burgundian pinot noir grape is difficult to grow and vinify, making winegrowers suffer and wine drinkers swoon. Our Drinks Editor James Viner selects seven bottles that show how far this ancient grape has travelled beyond France… WHY PINOT BREAKS HEARTS

inot deserves its heartbreaker moniker. It buds early, leaving it vulnerable to frost, and its thin skins and tight bunches invite rot and disease. Get it right, though, and the rewards are extraordinary, including a haunting perfume and a silky, supple texture. Burgundy wrote the rulebook, but pinot noir has travelled far beyond its spiritual home. Germany, where it is known as spätburgunder, New Zealand and Australia are now major strongholds, while in England only chardonnay occupies more vineyard area. Champagne also relies heavily on pinot noir: it is the region’s most widely planted variety. Here are seven bottles to savour this autumn. Serve the still wines lightly chilled at 12–14°C and the Champagne at 10°C.

1. 2024 PALATAIA PINOT NOIR, PFALZ, GERMANY £10, Marks & Spencer, 13%

Nab this terrific, keenly priced pinot noir from the sunny, dry Pfalz, Germany’s second-largest wine region. Plum-packed and slightly gamey, it shows hints of oak and allspice on the finish. Ideal with roast duck.

2. 2024 DEVIL’S CORNER PINOT NOIR, TASMANIA, AUSTRALIA £15, Tesco, 12.5%

Tasmania may be famed for fizz, but its cool climate suits still pinot noir too. Rosehip, dark cherry and raspberry lead into a light, silky palate, with gentle spice and refreshing acidity. Fresh, tangy and joyously gluggable, it is a good reason to look beyond Tassie’s bubbly. A banker with mushroom risotto or duck.

3. 2023 ABBOTTS & DELAUNAY, DOMAINE DE LA MÉTAIRIE D’ALON PINOT NOIR LE VILLAGE, LANGUEDOC, FRANCE £18, The Wine Society, 13.5%

The high-altitude vineyards of western Languedoc around Limoux provide the cooler conditions the variety favours. This is all about balance: bright red berries, savoury freshness and discreet oak, with enough finesse to echo Burgundy without the high price tag. One for mushroom linguine.

FOOD & DRINK LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

4. 2023 BERRY BROS. & RUDD NEW ZEALAND PINOT NOIR BY GREYSTONE WINES, NORTH CANTERBURY, NEW ZEALAND £20.95, Berry Bros. & Rudd, 13%

Marlborough sauvignon blanc put New Zealand on the wine map. Increasingly, though, its cool-climate chardonnays and pinot noirs deserve equal attention. This tiptop organic example from the Waipara Valley, north of Christchurch, is satiny with flavours of red cherry, dried herbs, rose and pomegranate, alongside earthy notes. Marvellous with monkfish.

5. 2025 BALFOUR ‘1503’ PINOT NOIR, KENT, ENGLAND £21, mix 6, Majestic, 12%

Balfour in Kent is helping to broaden the English wine story beyond sparkling wine. The 2025 ‘1503’ pinot noir is its best yet, marrying spiced cranberry and red plum with a subtle earthy note. The finish lingers, lifted by tangy acidity. Tuna steak or turkey with cranberry sauce, anyone?

6. 2025 STOPHAM ESTATE PINOT NOIR, WEST SUSSEX, ENGLAND £30, Stopham, 11%

Stopham Estate is known for its still pinot blanc and pinot gris, both colour mutations of pinot noir. It just released its maiden still red pinot, with 900 bottles produced. Light and brisk, with baked red berries, spice and earthy notes, it is a sensual charmer, with lip-smacking, perky acidity. Simply irresistible. Hello charcuterie and roast game. The future for English still reds looks decidedly rosy!

“

Stopham Estate in Sussex has just released its maiden still red pinot and it’s a sensual charmer, with lipsmacking, perky acidity – simply irresistible!” 7. NV WAITROSE BLANC DE NOIRS BRUT, CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE £28, down to £25, 14 October – 27 October, Waitrose, 12%

Made by Maison Bonnet in the Aube, where 80% of the vineyards are planted with pinot noir (Champagne has even more of it than Burgundy), this aromatic, red-fruited, biscuity and substantial allpinot noir sparkling gem is a treat. On offer from 14 to 27 October, around World Champagne Day (23 October). Superb with aged Comté. Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines

Selling all the seats in a few “easy” steps!

ig show launches are always an exciting time at any theatre. At the Assembly Hall Theatre we’ve been fortunate enough to experience a few such events in the last 12 months. Tickets for Romesh Ranganathan’s November visit sold out in a matter of hours, and whilst there are few greater feelings than seeing huge public interest in an event you’re promoting, a lot has to go on behind the scenes to make sure everything goes smoothly. Last week the AHT was presented with another such challenge with the announcement that Russell Howard is coming to the theatre in July ’27. So what exactly goes on before these shows go on sale? SET UP A DATE – ﬁrst and foremost you’ll need to agree a date with whomever is organising the tour. Putting together a national (or international tour) is a complicated puzzle: initially, a venue supplies a list of available dates and crosses ﬁngers. Once the stars align and contracts have been agreed, the fun starts.

WHEN, WHERE AND HOW - OK, so the contract’s in place, you have the promotional images and copy, what’s next? Now you have to agree the various sales windows. Some acts have existing agreements with ticketing agencies or their own fan groups and obviously the theatre will want to launch with as much ‘noise’ as possible, to as many people as possible. Often, when the tour is a national one, the on-sale announcement dates are pre-agreed, however, the theatre will still need to balance the messaging with all the other shows and information it’s sending out at the same time. EVERYONE READY? – with big on-sales, timing is crucial. What time will the website open? Are the emails and social media posts all prepped? How many staff do we have on the phones? Everything ready, then it’s time to… GO, GO, GO – and we’re live! Make sure the website’s working ok, check the phones aren’t on ﬁre and deal with any questions as they come in. But what a great challenge to have and one we’re all set to repeat in the future!

Matthew Robson – Director of Sales & Marketing

www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

PROPERTY INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

When flexibility becomes frustrating for landlords This month Becky Moran of TN Lettings explains why greater flexibility for renters is changing the way landlords and letting agents manage properties, with some facing significant additional costs when tenancies end far sooner than expected

our months after the introduction of the new rental rules, we are beginning to see one particular issue becoming increasingly frustrating for landlords: tenants taking a property and then giving notice almost immediately. Since 1 May, the Renters’ Rights Act has changed the structure of private renting in England. Fixed-term assured tenancies have been replaced by periodic tenancies, giving tenants considerably more flexibility. A tenant can generally give two months’ notice to end their tenancy, rather than being committed to the traditional six- or twelve-month fixed term. In principle, we completely understand the thinking behind this. People’s circumstances change. Jobs move, relationships change and sometimes a property simply isn’t right for someone.

“

The vast majority of tenants are genuine, responsible renters looking for somewhere to make their home, but we also believe there needs to be fairness on both sides However, at TN Lettings, we are now seeing situations that leave us questioning whether some tenants ever intended the property to be a longerterm home. A tenant moves in and, sometimes within the first month, notice arrives. There will usually be a reason given and, of course, we can never know someone’s personal circumstances or say with certainty what their intentions were when they took the property. But when it happens so quickly, it inevitably raises the question: was

the property actually being used as a convenient short-term solution? For a landlord, the consequences are significant. Before a tenant moves in, there is considerable work involved. The property is marketed, enquiries handled, viewings conducted, applications processed, referencing undertaken, compliance checked, paperwork prepared, inventories arranged and the tenant moved in. The landlord has paid the letting fee believing they have secured a tenant for a reasonable period. Then, just weeks later, we can effectively find ourselves back at square one. The property needs to be remarketed, new viewings carried out, another tenant found, referencing completed again and an entirely new tenancy set up. And this creates an awkward question for agents too: who pays for all that work the second time around? The agent has already charged the landlord for successfully finding and moving in the first tenant. It hardly seems fair to simply charge the landlord another full fee a matter of weeks later. Equally, an agency cannot repeatedly carry out an

entire letting process for free. This is one of the unintended consequences of giving greater flexibility to one side of the rental market. The vast majority of tenants are genuine, responsible renters looking for somewhere to make their home, and we certainly shouldn’t lose sight of that. But we also believe there needs to be fairness on both sides. Landlords are running a business, and there are substantial costs involved every time a tenancy changes. Greater flexibility for tenants shouldn’t mean that those costs and risks simply transfer to landlords – or their agents. At TN Lettings, we’re adapting to the new landscape, looking carefully at applications and having more detailed conversations with prospective tenants about their circumstances and intentions. The rental market has changed. Now we need to make sure it continues to work fairly for everyone. For more information about our property management services, call 01892 249070 or email info@tnlettings.co.uk.

PROPERTY LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Your local, Your local, independent sales agent

independent sales agent Always here to help

Always here to help Tel: 01892 249080 Email: info@tnsales.co.uk www.tnsales.co.uk 01892 249080 Your Trusted, Local, IndependentTel: Letting Agents Email: info@tnsales.co.uk www.tnsales.co.uk

Cubit Consulting are a wellestablished firm of Chartered Building Surveyors located in the heart of Shoreditch, London EC2A. Cubit Consulting provides professional services and expert advice to commercial and domestic clients across the UK. Known for its strong market presence, the firm of Chartered Surveyors specialises in Building Surveying (MRICS) and offers a comprehensive range of services. Cubit Consulting prides itself on understanding client requirements and delivering a high quality service, supported by ongoing training and professional development to enhance the quality of its personnel. SERVICES INCLUDE:

· Building Surveying · Architectural Services and Design

Get in touch with our team of professional experts to discuss your next project.

· Project Management · Party Wall Matters

Cubit Consulting 13-21 Curtain Road, London, EC2A 3LT

· Principal Designer Services · Cost Consultancy and Dispute Resolution

Tel: +44 (0) 207 253 5050 Email: mail@cubitconsulting.co.uk www.cubitconsulting.co.uk

PROPERTY INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

“My hope for this Budget is stability”

This month, Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential asks what the Autumn Budget could mean for the property market…

s estate agents, we become accustomed to a familiar phenomenon in the run-up to a Budget: the property market pauses for breath. This year’s Autumn Budget, due on 28 October, is no exception. Property taxation is once again firmly in the spotlight, with speculation around Capital Gains Tax, the treatment of landlords and the taxation of highervalue homes. However, one significant concern appears to have been removed: the Prime Minister has ruled out changes to Stamp Duty in this Budget. That clarity is very welcome. Stamp Duty has an immediate influence on transaction costs and, in areas such as Tunbridge Wells where property values are relatively high, significant alterations can quickly affect buyer behaviour. For me, however, the bigger issue is confidence. Markets dislike uncertainty, and when buyers believe a major tax announcement may be weeks away, some understandably decide to wait. Sellers then become nervous about quieter viewing levels, and what might have been a perfectly healthy market can temporarily lose momentum. So, what about the private rental sector? There is renewed speculation that Capital Gains Tax could be increased or brought more closely into line with income tax rates for second

“

The property market does not necessarily need incentives or short-term stimulus. What it needs most is confidence and stability properties, although, at present, this remains speculation rather than announced government policy. Should taxation on property investment become more onerous, there is a risk that further landlords will choose to sell. From an estate agency perspective, that could bring additional properties onto the sales market, but the corresponding reduction in rental stock would be less welcome. With tenants already competing for good-quality homes, policy needs to encourage investment in the private rented sector rather than inadvertently discourage it. Higher-value homes are another area to watch. The High Value Council Tax Surcharge, applying to English homes worth £2 million or more, has already been announced for April 2028. For markets such as Tunbridge

Wells and the surrounding villages, taxation at the upper end is particularly relevant. Additional annual property costs could influence buying decisions and potentially discourage some homeowners from moving up the ladder, although, to date, it has had very little consequence. My hope for this Budget is therefore relatively simple: stability. The property market does not necessarily need incentives or short-term stimulus. What it needs most is confidence and a sense that people can make long-term decisions without the rules continually changing. There will always be reasons to postpone a move: interest rates, elections, Budgets or economic forecasts. But property decisions are ultimately driven by life. Families grow, jobs change, and people downsize, relocate or simply find a home they love. If the Chancellor can provide greater certainty and resist adding unnecessary friction to those decisions, that in itself could be one of the most positive outcomes for the property market this autumn. maddisonsresidential.co.uk

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

PROPERTY LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

Property & POSSIBILITY Join our free seminar exploring the opportunities shaping West Kent and the wider property market.

Join Maddisons Residential, together with Handelsbanken, for Property & Possibility, an evening exploring the opportunities shaping West Kent and the wider property market. Bringing together property and ﬁnancial expertise, we’ll explore the trends influencing the market today from local market conditions and changing buyer behaviour, to the wider economic landscape and the opportunities these changes may create for homeowners, buyers and investors.

In partnership with

Excellence is not a skill set. It’s an attitude.

Thursday, November 5th, 5.45pm arrival, presentations from 6.30pm Kingdom, Penshurst, Kent TN11 8DU Drinks & light refreshments available

Limited places – booking is essential, scan code to reserve your seat today.

info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk 01892 514 100

PROPERTY INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Hot property

Every month in the TW Edit supplement we showcase one of the area’s most desirable homes. This month, Maddisons Residential presents a beautifully refurbished property, in a secluded spot, that’s perfect for relaxed edge of town living…

his stunning home is situated in the heart of Langton Green, a highly desirable location offering a wonderful balance of peaceful surroundings and convenient access to Tunbridge Wells. The property is particularly well positioned for families, being close to Holmewood House School and benefiting from access to a number of other highly regarded schools. The surrounding area offers countryside walks, green spaces, local amenities and leisure facilities. Tunbridge Wells town centre is approximately a 10-minute drive away, providing an excellent selection of shops, restaurants, cafés and leisure facilities. Tunbridge Wells mainline station is also approximately 10 minutes by car, offering fast and frequent services to central London.

• Exceptional six-bedroom detached family home, beautifully extended and renovated by the current owners • Approximately 3,868 sq. ft. of beautifully considered accommodation, arranged over three floors • Wonderful free-flowing living space, including a beautifully appointed kitchen, formal dining area and multiple reception spaces • Charming dual-aspect kitchen, with extensive cabinetry, marble worktops, range cooker and integrated appliances including wine fridge • Magnificent principal bedroom, featuring a stunning vaulted ceiling, fullwidth fitted wardrobes and beautifully appointed en suite • Excellent versatility for modern family living, including two ground-floor bedrooms with adjoining shower room and a private upper-floor bedroom suite • Incredibly generous and light-filled accommodation, with skylights, glazed

doors and a wonderful connection to the garden • Delightful west-facing garden, with a generous terrace, established planting and a green country feel, plus car port, parking and EV charger • Langton Green location, close to Holmewood House School and approximately 10 minutes from Tunbridge Wells; chain free • No onward chain • Guide Price £1,900,000

GET IN TOUCH: Call us: 01892 514100 Email us: info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk Visit: www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk DISCLAIMER: Some photographs in this listing have been digitally enhanced or virtually staged using CGI or AI to illustrate potential layout, styling, or lighting. Unaltered original photographs are available upon request.

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

PROPERTY LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

GARDENING INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Horticultural lessons from Lisbon…

This month, Tim Sykes of Gardenproud visits Jardim Gulbenkian, a stunning contemporary garden located in the heart of Lisbon

was lucky enough to visit the beautiful Jardim Gulbenkian in Lisbon, Portugal. The first thing that struck me was how it offers us a lesson in the way buildings, planting and the natural character of a place can blend together. During our recent visit to the city, this was my go-to place, so it’s easy to see why it’s top of TripAdvisor’s list of must-see tourist attractions. Our great friends from Portugal, Suzy and Laurie, agreed to join us on a visit. Bless them! Arriving at Jardim Gulbenkian, you become aware of a change in pace. Lisbon’s traffic is still close by, but the garden draws you into shade, dappled light and a succession of quieter woodland spaces.

“

The garden draws you into shade, dappled light and a succession of quieter woodland spaces Paths meander around trees; clearings open unexpectedly; and the lake suddenly appears, at first concealed by the beautiful planting. For many locals, the garden is simply an escape from the bustling city. For me, the intrigue was in understanding how this space had been created. The garden surrounding the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation was designed in

the 1960s by landscape architects António Viana Barreto and Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles, who worked alongside the architects of the Foundation’s Brutalist buildings. At first glance, the architecture is more reminiscent of our very own Barbican than of the beautiful 17th-century buildings that dominate Lisbon. The garden’s design contrasts with and softens these structures, drawing on the character of the earlier Parque de Santa Gertrudes that stood on this spot, retaining valuable mature trees while reshaping the land around a new cultural complex. Jardim Gulbenkian has become one of Portugal’s most significant modern gardens.

Its most striking characteristic is the relationship between woodland and open space. Rather than presenting the whole garden at once, the designers have arranged trees, planted edges and clearings so that each area has its own character. Care has been taken to integrate the architecture of the buildings with the other hard landscaping, using similar construction techniques. There are plenty of sculptures and resting points, featuring contemporary concrete benches and tables where visitors can sit, rest and reflect on the planting. Dense vegetation screens the city and gives the interior a feeling of escapism. Pathways are laid out as giant stepping stones that look as though they float through the glades, creating reflective surfaces for the dappled light of the trees. You turn a corner and tree canopies part; you encounter a shallow pond and sunlight reaches a lawn, or a more open area of naturalistic planting. The landscape has been carefully shaped to draw the eye — and the visitor — onwards. The planting follows the same approach. Species are selected and positioned in response to the shape and conditions of the land, taking cues from Portuguese woodland and the wider Mediterranean landscape.

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Oaks occupy gentle slopes. Poplars, ash and alders reinforce the lower, moister ground. Stone pines and cypresses give definition to the higher areas, while graceful meadow planting dominates the clearings. Around the garden’s edges, evergreen shrubs including myrtle, laurustinus and box help create the dense, protective planting that adds to the calmness of the place. Hibiscuses, Birds of Paradise and our very own marigolds suddenly burst through the vegetation, giving a focal point to a corner. Strawberry trees and eucalyptus add another layer of character, with their textured bark and evergreen leaves.

GARDENING LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

Rushes, ornamental grasses and waterloving planting soften the lake’s margins, where their reflections add movement even when the water is still. The garden is such an interesting space; one that both blends and contrasts with the contemporary architecture of the Gulbenkian buildings. This is a garden that has evolved with time. As the trees and large shrubs have grown, new opportunities have presented themselves to the gardeners. Their canopies have created shade and form, allowing a whole new perspective on the ground cover and focal points, and this gives the garden a feeling of momentum. And that is something we should all think about as we create exciting new gardens. What a fascinating two hours, all navigated in some surprisingly hot September weather, which certainly built up quite a thirst! So I think we all deserved that nice, cool glass of Vinho Verde we enjoyed following our visit! If you are planning to go, make sure you travel there by Uber — or even a tuk-tuk like we did. This was great fun and showed us places in the city that we would have missed travelling via the Metro, which is also very good.

For further information or help with your garden design, contact Tim Sykes at Gardenproud on 07725 173820 or visit SJD 130x90WELLS advert BUSINESS 09.25.qxp_SJD 130x90FEBRUARY advert 09.25.qxp 59 PROPERTY TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2026 TUNBRIDGE MAGAZINE 2026 22/09/2025 16:29 TUNBRIDGE WELLS BUSINESS MAGAZINE MARCH 2026 gardenproud.co.uk.

LAND AND DEVELOPMENT

CREATING BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES

PLOT OR NOT? UNLOCK THE POTENTIAL OF YOUR LAND OR PROPERTY

We’re actively seeking sites for development on behalf of clients. For more information, contact Stephen Donnelly: gardenproud.co.uk 07739 514 350 I 01892 579 937 I steve@sjd-projects.com

sjd-projects.com DESIGN | CONSTRUCT | MAINTAIN

ambient lighting to turn your house into a home, you will find all of this and more thanks to those brilliant businesses taking part. Another huge bonus of the Royal Tunbridge Wells Interior Design Festival is that there will be many exclusive perks for visitors to enjoy including goody bags, special offers and delicious refreshments. Also on offer will be plenty of interiors advice from a slew of experts who will be on hand to provide you with ideas on everything from how to create beautifully styled spaces to using colour with restraint but confidence, and tips on how thoughtful lighting, texture and layout can transform everyday living. One of the festival’s most exciting elements will be its cohesive styling. Streets and shopfronts will be dressed to create a unified visual experience, making the journey between venues just as inspiring as the destinations themselves. At the heart of the festival is its focus on local brands and expertise. Visitors will have the chance to meet interior designers, stylists and home specialists who understand how people really live today. From bespoke furniture and artisan finishes to curated accessories and practical design advice, this is an opportunity to engage directly with those shaping the town’s design scene.

SAVE THE DATE

Whether you’re mid-ren design, the Royal Tunbr of inspiration, creativity

WHEN: Thursday 12–14

WHERE: Tunbridge We

T m p b p m p A a e e fr la th p tr w c T

ARTS & CULTURE INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Pulling all the right strings The Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival returns from 26–31 October, with tickets now on sale for this popular half-term event. Here’s what’s in store as the festival brings world-class puppetry, family entertainment and immersive performances to venues across Tunbridge Wells and Southborough...

he much-loved Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival 2026 (TWPF) returns for its seventh year, taking place from 26–31 October. The festival, led by Festival Director Mehdi Razi, with Hayley Chester and Alison Bundy as Co-Chairs, will celebrate worldclass puppetry in all its forms — because not all puppets have strings! Mehdi comments: “There are free and ticketed events taking place across Tunbridge Wells and Southborough, including Royal Victoria Place, Southborough Civic Centre, The Forum and The Pantiles. “The timing is perfect for families looking for wallet-friendly activities during half term, and we are also offering people who book four tickets or more a 15% discount. “We are so excited by the quality of our performers, bringing influences from across the world this year. Project Wolf is a brand-new medieval immersive play, crafted by Sonny Puppets and the Creative Tunbridge Wells Youth Panel. This show is the opening act for Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival. “I want to extend a huge thank you to our community — we couldn’t do what we do without the support of our local community and the generous funding from RTW Together BID. Businesses across the borough are welcome to get involved by supporting the festival as Puppet Festival Friends by contacting twpuppetryfest@outlook.com.”

A WORLD OF PUPPETRY

The line-up for 2026 includes internationally acclaimed Indigo Moon Theatre, which is bringing two shows to the festival this year, both suitable for all ages. First is the family shadow theatre show Gaby Gulliver’s Travels, for adults and children. Set in the present day, Gaby Gulliver, an eight-year-old girl, is sent on an errand into the woods for her mum. But Gaby finds herself in another universe — a weird but wonderful world — then another, and another, as she travels on a magical journey through time and space. Along the way, regardless of where she is, the problems seem remarkably similar to those she faces at home. Gaby’s journey into these parallel universes becomes one of survival and enlightenment in this contemporary reimagining of Gulliver’s Travels by Indigo Moon Theatre. The company is also bringing Saraswati

“

We are so excited by the quality of our performers, bringing influences from across the world this year to the festival. She has delighted audiences in Britain and abroad since 1992, dancing to live instruments in the traditional Rajasthani folk style while reacting to her audience in her own particular way. She appeals to audiences young and old alike.

THREE LITTLE PIRATE PIGS

Sea Legs Puppet Theatre brings Three Little Pirate Pigs! Put on your sea legs and join Shadrack the lighthouse keeper for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas as he narrates the thrilling story of the Three Little Pirate Pigs. Tired of playing piggy-in-the-middle, our fearless trio decide on a game of pirates and treasure hunts. First, they must build a boat. Should it be made of straw, sticks or bricks? Suitable for all ages.

PROJECT WOLF

Perfect for older children and teenagers, as well as adults, Kent-based producers Sonny D and Alice Johnson deliver an original, immersive puppetry performance in Project Wolf. Take a journey with Maggie, who is terrified of wolves. Although her powerful uncle, the Duke, assures her they no longer

exist, there have been recent signs in the village that suggest otherwise. A town meeting is called and a death warrant is placed. Any man who kills the suspected wolf will win the hand in marriage of the Duke’s beautiful daughter, Adela. Maggie is relieved until her cousin confides in her that she is not ready to marry anyone — let alone the creepy town hunter, Leybourne. Suitable for ages 8+.

DISCOVER THAI PUPPETRY

Southern Thai Shadow Puppet Theatre celebrates the rich tradition of Thai puppetry through an immersive cultural experience, blending live performance, storytelling, audience participation and creative workshops. Audiences are invited to explore the unique puppet traditions of Central and Southern Thailand through interactive performances and hands-on activities. Suitable for all ages. Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID, which is financially supporting the Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival, comments: “We are delighted to lend our support and thrilled that TWPF will help Royal Tunbridge Wells to become associated with high-quality, world-class puppetry that openly invites anyone to access it and participate in it.” To book tickets, visit www. ticketsource.com/twpuppetryfestival and for Project Wolf www.tinyurl.com/ Sonnypuppets. To find out more, visit www.twpuppetryfestival.org or follow @ twpuppetryfestival.

ARTS & CULTURE LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

SCAN TO BOOK

EAT. DRINK. CELEBRATE.

EAT. DRINK. CELEBRATE. CHRISTMAS MENUS FROM 23 NOVEMBER

Christmas Day

Christmas Party

Live Music

£120 PER PERSON 4 COURSES

£45 PER PERSON 3 COURSES

THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

2-COURSE LUNCH £34

Festive menus made for celebrating, from office parties to family gatherings and get-togethers with friends.

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW OPEN T: 01892 513900 W: tn1barkitchen.co.uk 33 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1LS

FASHION & BEAUTY INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

“My aim is to redefine a client’s experience” From styling fashion shoots and celebrities around the world to creating his own unique hair and fashion boutique in Tunbridge Wells, Laurel Staple has spent four decades redefining the hairdressing and styling experience. Eileen Leahy discovers that his latest venture is anything but average…

“I

actually wanted to be an engineer, you know,” says Laurel Staple as he sits me down in one of his funky retro barber chairs and begins my hair consultation. I’m here at the revered hairstylist’s salon and boutique to have my hair chopped – but also to discover more about the entrepreneur’s Tunbridge Wells business, which combines his passion for hair, fashion, photography, styling and DJing. His fabulous Hubert’s Hair Boutique is on London Road, next door to Sugarbush Records and opposite The Forum music venue, so the self-professed DJ couldn’t be better positioned.

“

I want to create an exclusive club. Clients can come here to have their hair cut and styled, then they can browse the fashion pieces on the rails I curate The stylish premises are now utterly unrecognisable from their former guise as a Subway food outlet. Laurel, whose middle name is Hubert, has worked hard to take the building back to its original bones, revealing beautiful period details including wooden flooring, a mezzanine and intricate coving. “I guess that’s where your engineering prowess came in handy,” I say… “Yes, I did it all myself,” he says modestly. “It was a lot of work, but worth it all.” The space, with a fashion boutique at the entrance and salon at the back, boasts grand statement mirrors, arresting artwork, verdant plants, rails of fabulous dresses and a super-cool DJ platform. Although Laurel originally wanted to pursue engineering, after gaining the relevant qualifications, he admits it just didn’t work out. Luckily, a good friend got him into hairdressing. “Due to my engineering background, I

have always been very meticulous and technical, so I applied the same approach to cutting hair. Precision is very important in what I do. Ultimately I want to help people feel stylish and confident every single day.” Laurel’s professional CV reads like a who’s who of the fashion world. He has worked with models Jodie Kidd and Coco Rocha, as well as Jasper Conran, Paul Smith and Jil Sander. His career began 40 years ago, in 1986, at the legendary Toni & Guy salon in Mayfair. Laurel was there for nine years and credits co-founder Anthony Mascolo with teaching him a great deal. He then went freelance, travelling the world doing hair for fashion catwalks, celebrity events, TV shows and magazine shoots. His work saw him collaborate with esteemed photographers including Vogue favourites Nick Knight and David Sims. He was also part of the Aveda session team for many years and worked on Top of the Pops and the St Martins College end-ofyear fashion show. Laurel also created hair for models at Manumission in Ibiza during the late

1990s and early 2000s. He shows me his portfolio from his time there and tells me he also had a salon on the island. Laurel – who has another salon in Richmond, which he has run for more than a quarter of a century – tells me his drive and inspiration have always been the same: “My aim is to redefine a client’s hair experience – whoever and wherever that is.” And while he studies my own limp locks, I can immediately see how his approach is unique. Unlike most hairdressers, who might simply start trimming away at your split ends, Laurel looks closely at how my hair sits, where the volume is – and where it’s lacking – before explaining how he’s going to transform my feeble tresses into something voluminous and stylish once again. I can definitely see how Laurel’s approach is precise, innovative and meticulous. After washing my hair with his own LS Weekly Cleanse shampoo and conditioner, he gives me some advice on hair maintenance and tells me not to overwash it.

FASHION & BEAUTY LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

“That strips the hair of all the natural oils and strength. My products and the blowdry technique I use will give you days of great-looking hair.” As he snips away, Laurel says he is excited about further developing the concept behind Hubert’s Hair Boutique. “I want to create a kind of exclusive club. The idea is that clients can come here to have their hair cut and styled, then they can browse the fashion pieces on the rails I curate and try on some of their favourite pieces. I’ve begun hosting styling parties and they’re very popular. We have a DJ on the decks and there’s also the opportunity to take pictures in the studio we have here.” Once my own hair has been cut to perfection, Laurel shows me the studio set-up, where myriad back issues of Vogue magazine covers featuring everyone from Kate Moss to Sienna Miller are plastered across one wall. “I like to keep these as they are the real deal – and way before AI took over! I worked on a lot of fashion magazine cover shoots during my career, so it’s nice to show people what I have achieved.”

The salon before and after (right) renovation

Hubert’s Hair Boutique Hubert’s, 3 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1DQ Email: hubertshairboutique@gmail.com Phone: 07852 712887

HUBERT’S HAIR BOUTIQUE HAIRDRESSING & FASHION BY LS

HAIR. FASHION. INDIVIDUALITY. OPEN DAY - 14 NOVEMBER

Discover the salon ◆ Explore the collection Find inspiration for your next look Expert hair advice, boutique fashion and a glass of wine. FOR MEN & WOMEN

BOOK YOUR FREE

15-minute hair consultation

Advance booking required, contact us to arrange your appointment: DM “OPEN DAY” on Instagram @hubertshairboutique Call or text 07852 712887

hubertshairboutique.com 3 London Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1DQ

FASHION & BEAUTY INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Winter we are ready for you As the seasons change, our wardrobes need a little refresh. Style Director Victoria Genevieve shares her favourite winter fashion finds, from clever coats and cosy hats to statement jackets and beautiful bags, plus the beauty treatments to put on your 2027 to-do list now

osy season is upon us, the nights have started to draw in and the early mornings are becoming a struggle. And all of that means we are also starting to wonder what we should be wearing now summer is over and the shops and internet are calling us to buy winter. It has been hard to dive in because the weather hasn’t quite caught up with us, but by the time you read this it probably will have – and when it does, it’s always best to be ready! The things we need but never remember to buy are a good place to start…

Selection of hats Mille Fleurs millefleurs.uk

Checked Asymmetrical Stand Up Collar Jacket, £54, Renaissance Boutique Tunbridge Wells, www.renaissanceboutique.co.uk

Beaded Clutch in Merlot, £240; cocogracedesign.com

CROWNING GLORY

A good winter hat is a hands-free game changer, especially if you get one that is waterproof. Local milliner Mille Fleurs, based on Mount Ephraim, has one hat in particular I think is a total winner. It’s waterproof and you can roll it up for travel into your handbag. Perfect! While you’re in owner Gill’s gorgeous boutique, have a look at the stunning collection of scarves and gloves too. The hat is £79.50, 100% wool, crushable and water-resistant, and comes in lots of colours and sizes for him and her!

GET YOUR COAT

A winter coat or a good selection of jackets is your key to feeling well dressed this Autumn/Winter. Most of the time you are in and out of the house or the car, and it’s rare that many people see your whole outfit in a day. So, if you have good boots and a good coat or jacket, you have a good outfit on! This season, the funnel neck is taking centre stage in the coat style stakes. There are so many different colours, fabrics and prints to choose from, but I’d personally consider a lightweight version that will layer over lightweight knitwear or can be worn over a T-shirt. While this is not so much of a ‘coat’, it’s a jacket that can be part of your daily outfit – especially if you’re out and about and moving around a lot.

Barbour Carville Waxed Jacket, £329, www.barbour.com

Maison Hotel Antoinette jacket in Night Roses, £199, Kitch, www.kitchclothing.co.uk

YOUR BEAUTY REGIME FOR 2027 STARTS HERE Winter is the best time to start your laser journey. If you start in the winter months, come summer you’ll be so pleased you did it! Inez Clinic offers some great packages and uses the best equipment. I can highly recommend it! I started my journey with them early this spring and by the time I went on my summer holiday, I was delighted with the results. No one wants to be dealing with hair removal in the summer! www.inezbeautyclinic.co.uk It’s also a great time to consider your smile too. There are so many options available that it can be overwhelming. Kalon Dental here in Tunbridge Wells has a fantastic clinic and lots of options available. If you start now, you will definitely be

glad you started come spring. It’s best to get in touch and book a consultation and, from there, you can work out a plan of action for all your concerns. www.kalondental.co.uk

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

FASHION & BEAUTY LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

What was hidden beneath the stone? Last month, we introduced an inherited ring that had remained unworn for more than 20 years. Its owner wanted to preserve the connection to her grandmother while transforming it into something she could wear every day. But when Gavin, our master jeweller and diamond setter, Gavin Marsh examined the ring under magnification, he discovered something unexpected. Beneath the central stone was a tiny, hand-engraved date. It was not visible while the stone was set and the owner had never seen it before. After speaking to her family, she discovered it was her grandparents’ wedding date. Suddenly, this was no longer simply a redesign. That hidden date needed to become part of the new piece. At The Diamond Setter, remodelling begins long before any metal is shaped. Our team considers the proportions of the gemstones, how the jewellery will sit when worn and which original details should be preserved. A contemporary ring design was chosen, using the inherited stone as its centre. The setting would be lighter and more open, allowing the gemstone to take prominence, while the wedding date would be carefully recreated inside the new band.

Food with friends

Once the design was agreed, work began inside our on-site workshop on The Pantiles. The original ring was carefully dismantled, the stone cleaned and inspected, and the new setting prepared. Remodelling inherited jewellery requires patience. Older stones may have small chips or natural wear, and every setting must be created around the gemstone’s actual measurements—not simply what appears on paper. The ring gradually began to take shape. To anyone watching from the showroom, it already looked beautiful. But one final decision remained. A small diamond from another family ring had been brought into the consultation. There appeared to be nowhere for it in the new design—until our team suggested placing it somewhere completely unexpected. Where did we hide the second stone? The finished piece will be revealed in next month’s issue. Continue the journey in next month’s issue.

The Diamond Setter, The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells

Your Story, Set in Stone.

Try our Basil to You delivery or café collection service

www.foodbybasil.com/delivery

39-41 The Pantiles, TN2 5TE 01892 458042 customercare@thediamondsetter.co.uk www.thediamondsetter.co.uk

NEWS INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

On the road to Paralympic glory

Born and raised in Tunbridge Wells, GB para-cyclist Jacob Smith has overcome a life-changing spinal injury to reach the international cycling stage. Now, with his sights firmly set on LA28, he is racing towards his biggest goal yet – a Paralympic medal. Here, family friend and sponsor Tim Shercliff reveals more about Jacob’s inspiring journey and how you can help support him…

ake was always going to be an athlete. A pupil at Bennett Memorial Diocesan School, he played rugby for Kent at county level and had his sights set on a professional rugby career. But after a dramatic turn of events, on New Year’s Eve 2019 he underwent emergency surgery to remove a spinal cavernoma. The operation left him with a C3-C7 spinal cord injury and BrownSéquard syndrome, leaving him partially paralysed on his left side and with no pain sensation on his right.

“

My goal is to represent Great Britain at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, chasing medals at the highest level “At 19, I was paralysed, thinking my dreams were over,” says Jake, now 26. “Step by step, I’ve had to rebuild my body, relearning how to stand, move and walk again. Then, I found a new passion in cycling.” Rebuilding, one goal at a time The road back has been anything but conventional. Jake completed a swimless Ironman and summited Monte Rosa – at 4,215m, one of the highest peaks in the Alps – as part of the Millimetres2Mountains Development Programme. Along the way, he also earned a degree in Sport and Exercise Science and a master’s in Sport and Exercise Physiology. Then came the bike. “What started as simply getting on a bike has led to a place in the GB squad,” he says. Para-cycling is incredibly competitive. After a gruelling training regime, Jake has won the mixed team sprint at the British National Para Track Championships, taken silver in both the road race and

time trial at the British National Para Road Championships, and claimed bronze in the road race at the UEC Road European Championships in Maniago, Italy – all in 2026 alone. He is now ranked tenth in the world in the UCI Men Elite C3 road para-cycling rankings. Those who know him say he doesn’t announce what he can’t do. He simply gets on with what he can. The dream: LA28 “My goal is to represent Great Britain at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, chasing medals at the highest level,” says Jake. He hopes to compete in the track events at the Carson Velodrome and in the road

cycling events, which are due to be held at Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park in August 2028. The next two years are critical. Jake receives partial support from British Cycling, but the full cost of training and competing at international level far exceeds what programme funding covers. Beyond that, he is self-funded, relying on commercial partnerships to cover competition travel and entry fees, training camps, coaching and physiotherapy, equipment and kit, and the costs of living at his training base. “Being successful at the Paralympics will take more than just determination,” Jake says. “I’m looking to partner with brands and organisations who want to be part of my journey, to help me take my ambitions to the next level.” How local businesses can get involved The Road to LA28 campaign offers commercial partnership options to suit businesses of every size, as well as individuals. Partners can receive exclusive content, opportunities for Jake to speak at customer or employee events, and recognition across race, media and digital channels. Packages can be tailored, and in-kind support such as services, equipment or travel is also welcome. Businesses could also choose to support a specific element of the campaign, such as a training camp or race travel. For Tunbridge Wells businesses, it is a chance to back one of the town’s own as he chases a Paralympic medal – and to be part of his story from the start of the road to LA28. Watch Jake in action: youtu.be/5K6fyksz4XM?si=6mKxIThgpBcikQED Get in touch To discuss commercial partnerships, contact Tim Shercliff. Email: tim@theroadtola28.com Tel: 07796 143522 Website: theroadtola28.com Instagram: @jake.smith.32

ARTS & CULTURE LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

20 20

YEARS OF SOPRANO

Gracias

to our ama zing team g u ests ,

10.000+ 10.000+ Memo rie s

amily o r eing pa rt o our ourney

500.000 500.000

1 Family

G u e st s e r e

56 ig treet u n ri ge ell s 1 1 XF www.s o pr ano tu nb r idge w ell s. co .u k ,

TRAVEL INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

Titan travel: Adventure made effortless

itan Travel specialises in adventure made effortless. Their award-winning escorted tours cover more than 50 countries across all seven continents, and include small group tours, rail journeys, expedition cruises and holidays for solo travellers. Every itinerary is thoughtfully planned to include both must-see and off-the-touristtrail sights. Many tours include enriching experiences, such as talks from subjectmatter experts, immersive activities or chances to spend time with local people. Titan also plans dedicated free time to relax or explore independently. Titan's nationwide shared chauffeur service is included on all tours and ensures that every adventure is hasslefree from start to finish. There are no mileage surcharges and no single supplements to pay. For extra peace of mind, every Titan tour is backed by their Happiness Guarantee. Titan is so confident customers will love every moment of their tour that they promise to bring them home and refund their money if they don't. Ashdown Travel is proud to work with Titan Travel Contact us via our website www. ashdowntravel.co.uk or call 01892 357500 to find out more.

YOUR ADVENTURE. OUR EXPERTISE. Indulge in the ultimate escape where elegance meets adventure, every moment tailored to perfection.

Your local award-winning independent travel agent. Call us now: Tunbridge Wells 01892 357500

Oxted 01883 714312

Sevenoaks 01732 914900

Knutsford 01565 396700

1 High Street, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UL tw@ashdowntravel.co.uk

24/26 Station Road East, Oxted RH8 0PG oxted@ashdowntravel.co.uk

4/5 Dorset Street, Sevenoaks TN13 1LN sevenoaks@ashdowntravel.co.uk

27 King Street, Knutsford, WA16 6DW knutsford@ashdowntravel.co.uk

www.ashdowntravel.co.uk

EVENTS INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

My Tunbridge Wells, Your Tunbridge Wells

Clare Lush-Mansell from My Tunbridge Wells is your expert guide to all the fantastic events happening from now until mid-November in and around Tunbridge Wells...

SPOOKY SEASON

Embrace ‘Autumn Magic’ at Birchden Vineyards in Groombridge throughout October, with seasonal fun for both kids and grown-ups. Little explorers can take on the immersive Harvest Moon Mystery Trail, searching the vineyard for missing pieces of the Harvest Moon, with pumpkin decorating, marshmallow toasting and a Harvest Key craft included. Meanwhile, grown-ups can settle into the festoonlit Autumn Magic Barn for a Bavarian BBQ, local beers and Birchden wine, with coffee, lunch and cakes available from the Blackbird Café too. The children’s trail (advance booking required) and Autumn Magic Barn are open every weekend in October and from 27 October to 1 November. www.birchdenvineyards.co.uk

STYLE IT OUT

Fashion fans, this one’s for you. Royal Victoria Place’s Style Showcase returns for two days of free fashion inspiration, expert styling advice, talks and interactive workshops, all curated by local stylist Helen Thomson. It’s all about getting your autumn/winter wardrobe working harder, so pop along and get some fresh outfit inspiration. I’ll also be taking part in the showcase on Friday, so come and say hello if you’re there! Fri 16 and Sat 17 Oct.

CRUNCH TIME

Celebrate all things apple as Penshurst Place hosts its first-ever Apple Weekend on 17 and 18 October. Discover more about the estate’s fascinating fruitgrowing history and its 130+ apple trees, with apple pressing, tastings, children’s crafts and games to enjoy throughout the weekend. The tradition dates all the way back to the 1560s, when Henry Sidney created the first walled garden to

waiting with a special silver sleigh bell for every passenger to take home. Tickets are already on sale and popular dates can sell out quickly, so it’s worth booking early. www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

A SPARKLING SUCCESS

protect hundreds of fruit trees. A lovely autumn day out for the whole family, with activities included in normal admission. www.penshurstplace.com

ON THE HUNT

Get ready for a spooky scavenger hunt around Tunbridge Wells from 20 October to 1 November. Hunt down 10 golden skeletons hiding in businesses across the town and help solve the mystery of the missing Tom Bones. Visit eight or more locations and check in via the RTW #LoveLocal app to enter the prize draw, with even more Halloween fun to discover at The Amelia and Royal Victoria Place along the way. A fun and free way to explore the town this half term!

CREATIVE ENDEAVOUR

Get your pencils at the ready as muchloved children’s writer and illustrator Nick Sharratt comes to Trinity Theatre on 28 October for a fun-filled half-term drawalong. The illustrator behind favourites including You Choose, Shark in the Park and Pants will share some of his bestloved books, introduce brand-new ones and show children how to draw brilliant characters of their own. Bring along paper and drawing materials and expect plenty of tips, games and laughs along the way. Recommended for ages 4+. www.trinitytheatre.net

FULL STEAM AHEAD

All aboard! THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride returns to Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells from 7 November to 30 December, bringing the much-loved Christmas story to life aboard a real steam train. Pull on your Christmas pyjamas and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs, golden tickets, festive storytelling and a magical journey towards the North Pole. Santa will be

One of Tunbridge Wells’ biggest annual events returns on 7 November as the Dunorlan Park Fireworks light up the sky. This year’s theme is The Magic of the Movies, with an 18-minute pyromusical spectacular set to iconic film scores, with the fireworks reflected across the lake. Gates open at 5.30pm, with plenty of food and drink available before the main display begins at 7pm. This is always a hugely popular night, so book your tickets as soon as you can! www.dunorlanfireworks.co.uk

FESTIVE SPIRIT

Christmas officially kicks off in Tunbridge Wells on 14 November with what promises to be the biggest festive launch yet! Head into town for a bigger Christmas fair packed with gifting stalls, two stages of live music and entertainment, latenight shopping at Royal Victoria Place and surrounding streets, and more funfair rides than ever before. Santa will be making an appearance in his sleigh, there’ll be plenty of snow and carol singing, and the much-loved Rudolph’s Runner land train is back too. One for the Christmas diary!

TAKING CENTRE STAGE

Get into the festive spirit as The Nutcracker comes to the Assembly Hall Theatre on 14 November. Imperial Classical Ballet® brings this much-loved Christmas classic to life with a large live orchestra, beautiful costumes and plenty of seasonal magic. Expect snow flurries, princes and sweets, all accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, including Waltz of the Flowers and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. A gorgeous way to start the countdown to Christmas and a lovely introduction to ballet for younger audiences too. www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

www.mytunbridgewells.co.uk @mytunbridgewells

Advertisement Feature

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

EVENTS LEGAL INTERVIEW NEWS

A Christmas production that lies at the heart of our community We are delighted to get an insight from Jason Lower and some of the cast of Elf The Musical into the build up that is taking place behind the Trinity stage door.

Let’s hear from some of the cast:

What appealed to you about auditioning ? Neil Simmons: Having worked in the world of entertainment over 20 years ago, I’ve always missed the performance side of things, but with the demands of work and family, it’s taken a back seat. My company, TN Recruits, is a proud supporter of Trinity Theatre, and at a supporters’ meeting we were told about the auditions for Elf. Before I’d really had time to think about it, I’d said I was going to audition! It feels like the start of a completely different chapter and I’m already surrounded by some superbly talented performers who I know will make me raise my game. Kim Thursﬁeld: As an ex-professional performer, I’ve spent over 12 years away from being on stage (thanks kids) but I’d been looking for the right opportunity to make a return to feeling like myself again. I knew that, after so many years away, I wanted to ﬁnd somewhere I felt comfortable and part of a wonderful community. After watching my daughters thrive in Trinity’s productions of Nativity and Finding Nemo, I knew it was a special place. Seeing how much they loved performing, alongside the incredible community spirit and the most beautiful theatre setting, made Trinity feel like the perfect place for me to take that step back onto the stage. Gail Parker: Elf is part of our family Christmas tradition - it embodies the joy of Christmas and we watch it every year. So my son and I didn’t hesitate at the

opportunity to perform side-by-side in Elf The Musical. The music and dance is uplifting, the script is hilarious and the Trinity cast and team truly make you feel part of a community.

Kate Munson: Theatre is really important to our family and this is the ﬁrst show that myself, my husband and our two daughters have been in together which makes it even more special. And we’re only two rehearsals in but working (and laughing) with the rest of this incredible cast and crew means so much to me. To connect with people and work together to bring something joyous to the stage is a real privilege.

How many people are involved from the local community? Everyone! There are two casts of 27 – a Red and a Green cast, with a mixture of adult actors, and children and young people from our youth theatre and the wider community. Then we have our creative team, all local

to Tunbridge Wells and who worked on last year’s Nativity!. There’s me, Trinity’s Creative Director. Choreographer Emily McAllister used to run a local dance school and performed at the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony, having trained under Arlene Phillips. Stephen Hyde, our Musical Director, is the Artistic Director of Three Inch Fools (their interpretation of A Christmas Carol is running this November, just before Elf). The Costume Designer is the fantastic Rachel Rose, who has designed many Trinity productions. Sound Design is courtesy of our Technical Manager, James Jenkins, who founded Crowborough Rocks, a non-proﬁt focused on giving young people an opportunity to perform; and Leopard Production Service’s James Dean is bringing his lighting magic back to our stage.

What will surprise audiences about Trinity’s production of Elf The Musical? Just how much heart and how many catchy songs it has. I’ve been humming Sparklejollytwinklejingley since January.

What is the impact of a successful Christmas production for Trinity as a charity? A strong Christmas season sets the ﬁnancial weather for the next year. Running an award-winning arts charity in a converted church with no core funding from the council or national government means every penny helps us keep the lights on. Not just to bring live comedy, music, theatre and a cinema right in the heart of town, but also to keep reaching the children, young people and older adults through our programmes such as Speech Bubbles, Second Act and Encore.

Book your tickets and support the work Trinity can do at trinitytheatre.net. Elf The Musical is proudly sponsored by Berry & Lamberts Solicitors.

Trinity Theatre, Church Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1JP

CHARITY INTERVIEW

The TW Edit OCTOBER 2026

A magical month of making dreams come true

This month, the Taylor-Made Dreams team tell us about the incredible success of their 30 Days for Tay campaign and reveal some of the exciting fundraising events taking place between now and the end of the year

his September, with the support of the local community, we set out to make a big difference for the families supported by TaylorMade Dreams services through our 30 Days for Tay campaign. Whether you donated £30, ran 30 miles or baked 30 cakes, every donation and fundraising effort throughout the 30 days of September made an impact. Taylor Mitchell – the inspiration behind Taylor-Made Dreams (TMD) – would have turned 30 this year. To mark that milestone, we hoped to raise £30,000 to continue the work we do for families across the South East of England, supporting both our parent and sibling support groups throughout 2027. It has been a month of truly incredible fundraising from the TMD community, with cake sales, park walks, marathons, golf days, movie nights, music and dance

“

A truly magical month that has gone above and beyond to continue Taylor’s legacy

events, Pilates, coffee mornings, bike rides and more! TMD CEO Suzi – Taylor’s mum – even agreed to have her head shaved, something which raised more than £4,000! “All of our fundraisers have been doing a sterling job. It’s been so inspiring and humbling to see all of their hard work and ideas, adding funds for our families,” reveals Suzi. “Thank you, thank you, thank you. We know there are a few more events to come in October, but we are so grateful for every penny raised this month.” £30,000 was a big target, but with such an important goal, the community went above and beyond to make sure we hit it. And sure enough, the sum raised this September was an impressive £31,739.80, with an additional £1,750.45 in Gift Aid! “With these funds, we can provide support groups for both TMD parents and siblings throughout 2027, creating a safe, welcoming space each month where they can create new positive memories and connect with other people in similar situations to their own,” adds Suzi. “Your donations, in memory of what would have been Taylor’s 30th year, will make a big impact for our families and we

are so grateful for everyone’s support. A truly magical month that has gone above and beyond to continue Taylor’s legacy.” September may be over, but the events aren’t! We are so pleased to announce that we have been chosen as The Pantiles’ nominated charity, which means we will be out and about across Tunbridge Wells’ famous promenade, hosting new and exciting events to bring the community together while supporting children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Suzi says: “The Pantiles is such a loved part of the Tunbridge Wells community, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to reach even more people with the story of Taylor-Made Dreams through this partnership. “We can’t wait to work together to bring new and exciting events to the local community, whilst supporting TMD families with each one.” The first TMD event begins on November 20 with Christmas decoration making. It’s the perfect start to the festive season and we’d love to see you there! You can keep an eye out for all the new TMD events at: www.taylormadedreams.org.uk/news