Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine April 25

EDITOR

Eileen Leahy

DESIGN MANAGER

Jason Stubbs

PHOTOGRAPHY

David Bartholomew

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

Courtney Smith

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Robin Singer

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

George Percy

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Richard Moore

CHEIF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Nick Moore

Welcome

This month we are delighted to feature local business property entrepreneur Becky Moran as our cover star. The reason? Well, as she exclusively tells us, it’s because she is now adding a sales division to her fledgling portfolio. Becky started TN Lettings just four years ago and since then it has become one of the area’s leading rental agencies, so it made sense for Becky to then launch a sales offering – hence TN Sales. Turn to page 28 to read why she feels now is the perfect time to bring back traditional values and personal service to selling houses. Elsewhere, we ask some of our most trusted business experts on what they would like to see the Chancellor Rachel Reeves include in her Spring Statement on March 26. It makes for fascinating reading and certainly reflects the current economic temperature of some of our most important local industry sectors. Let’s hope their wishes are granted…

As usual we have plenty of informative reads for you to enjoy this month. They include chats with Nick Lima, founder of Rankfresh digital marketing agency, Oliver Burt of Acer Insurance, Sharp Thinking’s Nat Sharp and Amber Taylor of Chomp Baby who took part in BBC1’s The Big Idea Works.

We also bring you all the pictures and info from the opening of the new

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is published by JJL Media & Marketing Ltd, 3 Chapman Way, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3EF. Registration no: 15546231 For enquiries please email hello@twbusinessmagazine.com or call 01892 574474 www.twbusinessmagazine.com

Town Sq co-working space which is located at the Town Hall, plus reveal the categories for this year’s TN card’s Tonbridge Business Awards, which we are proud to be the official media partner of.

In our After Hours section we talk to restaurateur Matthew Sankey about his business’ 45th anniversary. It’s quite the feat to have been successful for so long and Matthew tells us the reasons why his seafood empire has gone from strength to strength – oh, and all about legendary chef Rick Stein’s recent visit.

Interiors fans will love our interview with Joss Miller who runs her own eponymously named design company, and staying with stunning interiors, we also have a look at what the private hire events space LIMEKILN is offering corporates with their special midweek company takeover offers. A floristry class and some delicious food while networking? Yes please! Enjoy the issue, Eileen

Find us at: www.twbusinessmagazine.com @twbusiness_magazine @TWBizMag

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

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experts

across the board...

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is proud to have so many of our talented entrepreneurs and inspiring CEOs writing for the title. Whether it’s advice on accounting or property, information on current legal issues or HR legislation you will find all the expert industry guidance you need within these pages. This month our experts include the following...

Henry Adekoya Health & Fitness Specialist

Dee Airey Photographer & Visibility Strategist

Ryan Ashford-Smit

Owner, OsteoStrong Tunbridge Wells

Darren Austin Director, Synergee

Gary Brindley Founder, Step 3

Jodie Claridge Owner, the dental box

Gemma Farina Managing Director, GFHR Consulting

Matthew Forbes Dip PFS, Director, Forbes Financial Ltd

Jess Gibson Founder, The TN card

Alex Green CEO, RTW Together

Mark Hill Antiques Expert

Matthew Hill Founder, Private Medical Insurance Brokers

Shaun Joubert Senior Partner, NFU Mutual

Clare Lush-Mansell Founder, My Tunbridge Wells

Nick Marks Director, Baldwins Travel

Becky Moran CEO, TN Lettings and TN Sales

Gillian Palmer Founder, The Finance Hub

Sarah Raine Director, Colley Raine & Associates

Deborah Richards Founder, Maddisons Residential

Richard Shearing Senior Partner, Head of Private Client, JE Bennett Law

Neil Simmons ManagingDirector, TN Recruits

Jon Traquair Founder, Fixio

Gary Valentine Managing Funeral Director & LAFD President

Protesters will continue to fight second  Gatwick runway that divides opinions

By Richard Moore

Plans for the second runway at Gatwick Airport have moved a step closer after Government backed the idea providing measures to reduce noise are put in place.

Any expansion would be seen as a mixed blessing for Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.

Critics argue it could put thousands of more planes above the towns on something akin to a super highway in the sky creating 'uncontrollable noise' and air pollution.

Others argue it could make an enormous contribution to the local economy creating hundreds of new jobs and boosting businesses.

The protesters say they will 'continue to hold Gatwick's feet to the fire' and would consider pressing for a Judicial Review if the green light is finally given.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has said she was ‘minded to approve’ the expansion.

Some MPs, including Tunbridge Wells Lib Dem Mike Martin and Tonbridge Tory Tom Tugendhat, are strongly opposed to any second runway.

Gatwick wants to move its northern runway, which is currently only used for taxiing or as a backup, and make it operational by the end of the decade.

Government support does not guarantee the expansion will go ahead as it would still need planning permission.

If the green light is eventually given work might start almost immediately with the £2.2bn expansion funded through private investment.

Gatwick has until April 24 to respond to demands for the scheme to include measures, such as noise mitigation along with a proportion of passengers travelling to the airport via public transport. A final decision will be made in October.

“Critics argue a second runway could put something akin to a super highway in the sky”

The airport is already Europe's busiest single runway airport, with more than 40 million passengers using it last year.

An extra runway would see capacity increased for holidaymakers and business travellers, particularly for short-haul destinations, as opposed to Heathrow's longer-haul flights.

Gatwick managers were 'shocked and disappointed' at news of the delay and said that with 55 take-offs and landings in a busy hour, the airport is 'full'.

Being able to use both runways could increase the number of departures by 50,000 a year by the end of the 2030s.

Some 30,000 of those flights are planned to depart from the north runway which will only be used for departures and not landings.

Greenpeace UK policy director Douglas Parr said the extension would not drive economic growth. "The only thing it's set to boost is air pollution, noise, and climate emissions," he added.

Alex Chapman, senior economist at left-of-centre think tank New Economics

Motorists likely to see ‘red’   with ‘misleading’ road signs

County Hall has run into problems with a plan to switch bus lane signs in Tunbridge Wells from blue to red.

The town’s Lib Dem MP Mike Martin is against the whole idea arguing the change will mislead drivers and increase fines.

He claims red circular signs, used elsewhere, are clearer and better at deterring motorists and has invited KCC officials to walk the route.

He wants them to reconsider and is urging them to commission an

independent expert to propose solutions.   Road signs in the town centre have already been criticised in recent years with many drivers being confused about them.

County Hall issued almost 12,000 bus lane fines in the past year worth around £840,000, though actual collections were lower due to appeals and early payments.

KCC, is taking over bus lane enforcement from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and says blue signs follow the Highway

Foundation, also argued the move would not create new jobs, but would just shift them from other parts of the country.

"People are already perfectly able to catch cheap flights on holiday or travel for business," he added.

Bronwen Jones, development director at Gatwick, said a second runway would be "a win for everyone.”

She said it would create more flight slots across both runways.

"That allows us to offer new routes, new airlines, more frequencies on existing routes, so that passengers have more choice."

Sally Pavey, chair of Communities Against Gatwick Noise Emissions (CAGNE), is worried about "uncontrollable noise, ramifications on the roads, decline in air quality... and climate change.”

"We can't keep ignoring climate change and it would be wrong to allow a new 'bucket and spade' runway, as we put it, at the expense of residents and the economy," she said.

The group would take legal action through a judicial review if the expansion goes ahead, she added.

Gatwick said it has committed to reducing noise levels to below those of 2019 - which CAGNE says was one of the worst years for noise.

Code and match those used elsewhere.

A six-month warning period will give drivers time to adjust before fines begin.

Critics, including local residents, argue the blue signs are unclear with people only realising their mistake after receiving a penalty.

KCC insists the scheme is about changing driver behaviour, and not raising revenue.

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Care providers ‘truly fear’ being put  out of business by increased costs

BUDGET WATCH

By Jonathan Banks

A Tunbridge Wells entrepreneur who is leading innovation to raise standards in the care sector has warned that some care providers are in danger of being forced to close following the Chancellor’s budget.

Debbie Harris is the founder and Managing Director of the UK’s largest online care directory, Autumna, and is supporting a national campaign to highlight challenges facing the sector.

She joined the #ProvidersUnite rally in Westminster (February 25) to protest the Government’s proposed increase in Employers’ National Insurance that comes into force in April.

She believes the 1.2% increase along with the lowering of the earnings threshold for these contributions, coupled with the annual rise in the National Living Wage, will put unsustainable pressure on many of the country’s care homes and home care services.

“I speak to care providers every day and they are truly in fear of these forthcoming changes,” Debbie explains. “Many believe that their businesses, which are already under tremendous

financial pressure, will simply become unviable and have to close down.

“At Autumna, we’re all about raising care standards and promoting choice for families looking for care. With fewer providers around we are all likely to suffer. Less competition and higher costs will lead to higher prices and a possible lowering of standards. So I felt it was absolutely necessary to lend my support to the Providers Unite Campaign.”

Under the banner of ‘Stronger Together,’ Debbie was one of around 2,000 protestors who marched on Westminster to meet MPs.

Providers Unite believes the sector is critically underfunded today and needs £8.4bn to meet future demand.

“Social care is so often seen as an afterthought when it comes to the health of the nation and the spotlight always seems to fall on the NHS that gets the vast majority of any government funding,” said Debbie. “But without an economically viable social care sector, the NHS will continue to struggle. We can’t keep ignoring the issues that this growing sector faces. And that’s why the cause of Providers Unite is so important.”

Millions of people now use Autumna

Impact of the new VAT on private  schools being closely monitored

Exclusive by Richard Moore

Following the introduction In January of VAT on private school fees it’s estimated that across the county some 1,700 primary school students will switch to state schools.

The figure is based on research by the Independent Association of Prep Schools.

However, no figures have yet been released by Kent County Council (KCC) which says it is not in a position yet ‘to predict how many children and young people will leave the independent sector because of the Government’s decision to impose VAT on independent school fees’.

KCC’s Cabinet Minister for Education Rory Love told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine: “This will very much depend on a parent’s ability to pay the increased school fees and the impact on individual schools if they lose a critical number of their pupils and then close.

“We will be monitoring the level of displacement of children from independent schools into the maintained sector.”

He said they would also continue to

monitor the number of requests for Education, Health and Care (EHC) Needs Assessments and identify any localised trends which they have been doing as part of their transformation of SEND (Special Educational Needs) services over the past two years.

“This means we can identify any increase in applications near an independent school. Receiving more requests for an EHC Needs Assessment does not automatically lead to more EHC Plans being issued, as we conduct robust assessments under the guidelines of the SEND Code of Practice.

“However, if a significant number of pupils became displaced owing to their school closing, we could see even greater pressure placed on the availability of places in local Kent schools.

“Based upon estimates of the impact provided by the Independent Association of Prep Schools, as many as 1,725 primary school pupils in Kent could be displaced.”

There are 11 independent schools locally catering for around 4,300 pupils.

“At Autumna, we’re all about raising care standards and promoting choice for families looking for care”

each year to help find care homes, home care, live-in care and retirement solutions.

Debbie has campaigned to improve the experience of families looking for care and the quality of care available since having to find a care home for her Aunt Margaret in 2006.

She was named The Woman in Tech at the Women Achieving Greatness in Social Care Awards last year.

CUT AND RUN

The owner of AK Barbers in Crowborough, Alex Jemi will be running the London Marathon in aid of Mencap. The charity supports people with learning disabilities, helping them lead more independent and fulfilling lives.

Alex will be running the famous 26.2 mile course around the capital - with a difference. Every 5km he will stop and cut someone's hair - until he reaches the finish line.

If you would like to sponsor him then visit his fundraising page at www.justgiving.com and type in his name Alex Jemi.

STRONG START

Osteostrong in Tunbridge Wells have recently launched their new website, which has been created by local specialists Step 3 Digital.

To promote its launch the bio hacking company are offering a month’s free series of Osteostrong sessions. All you have to do is head to their website at www. osteostrongtunbridgewells.co.uk and send the team a message via their contact page. This acts as one entry per person.

Osteostrong was recently nominated as Best Wellbeing Specialist in the Muddy Stiletto Awards 2025.

Tunbridge Wells resident and Autumna founder and MD Debbie Harris

“Elon Musk has forever blurred the lines between politics and business”

Elon Musk’s role in the Trump administration is part of a trend for increasingly blurred lines between business and politics, a leading headteacher told a special conference for the next generation of businesspeople.

Speaking at the event on March 6, Rachel Bailey, Headmistress at Benenden School, urged the young entrepreneurs in the room to remember that the greatest attribute they can bring to the fastchanging world of business is to be adaptable. “Innovative people and companies will continue to play a major role in shaping society,” she said.

Speaking at the Enterprise and Innovation Conference, where more than 200 Sixth Form students gathered at Benenden in Kent from 11 schools from across the UK, Ms Bailey said the recent sight of Musk, the world’s richest person, giving a press conference in the Oval Office was “an image for the ages”. She added: “Never before has the sheer power and influence of big business been more apparent.”

Ms Bailey highlighted the sheer financial might of the so-called Big Five US tech companies - Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta and Microsoft – which have a combined value of more than 13 trillion dollars: greater than the annual gross domestic product of every country on Earth except for the United States and China.

"Never before has the sheer power and influence of big business been more apparent”

In addition, tech firms achieve enormous levels of engagement with individual citizens through their popular devices and platforms, making them incredibly influential in modern society.

Ms Bailey, whose school is regarded as one of the leading girls’ boarding schools in the world said in her opening address: “It’s no wonder that politicians want big business round the table with them. And that, in turn, big business wants to become a political force.

“Of course, in Donald Trump, we have a bold businessman in the White House. This President is a dealmaker and in general, politics is becoming ever more transactional. This blurring of lines between business and politics is likely to increase in future.”

Ms Bailey also said that if major businesses are increasingly becoming role models in the political arena, they need to ensure they live and breathe their values at all times.

She told delegates that to thrive in the business landscape of the future, the key will be their ability to adapt.

Ms Bailey commented: “We are seeing how creativity and innovation are vital skills in the workplace. The very definition of being innovative is being original and creative in thinking.

“In short, you need to be creative problem solvers. This means continually adapting as society changes – driven by a rapidlychanging technological landscape.

“You need to be continually reviewing what you and your business are doing, identifying what problems you want to solve to improve people’s lives, checking how you and your business are behaving – and adapting as a result.”

Ms Bailey concluded: “Only time will tell whether the partnership between Trump and Musk will come crashing down. But in many ways it doesn’t matter, it’s a sideshow to the real story: business is playing as important a role in people’s lives as politics.”

Playing devil’s advocate –a pre-nup for your business

By Victoria Sampson, Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial

When speaking with clients before they embark on a new business venture, I explain that part of my role as legal adviser is to play ‘devil’s advocate’ and assume that everything that could go wrong, will go wrong. Whilst one endeavours to cover off eventualities, it is nigh on impossible to predict the future.

In a business relationship, be it as shareholders in a limited company; designated members in an LLP; or partners in a partnership, it is best practice to have a formal agreement in place. This could be either a shareholders’ agreement, LLP agreement or partnership agreement.

Not only do these documents offer practical and proactive solutions, such as decision making, restrictive covenants and delegation rights, they also seek to anticipate what should happen if things go sour in the business relationship plus deal with terminal matters such as death and insolvency.

A ‘business pre-nup’, therefore, is one that business owners should most certainly invest in. Some things to ponder…

In the face of deadlock, what can one do? Ordinarily, if there is no binding contract in place, the ultimate sanction is court, which can cause both angst and expense.

What if a business partner dies – what should happen to their shares? Do you want to be in business with your late partner’s family members? Would you like the right to buy their share in the business? What happens if one of your business partners acts in such a way which is detrimental to the business? Should you have the right to expel them? What happens if you want to sell the business and your other business partners do not or vice versa?

Our role as legal advisers is not only to be constructive and proactive, but also to challenge the difficult potential outcomes and seek to provide mechanisms or solutions if the worst does indeed happen.

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

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

Every little helps for West Kent

ACompared to the rest of the South East, Kent traditionally has had a lack of high-quality logistics and distribution space. Andrew Metcalf, Managing Director of Maxim, a leading regional PR, marketing and public affairs agency based in Tunbridge Wells, and Vice-Chair of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, looks at how the county now has a global player delivering high quality jobs and attracting industry leaders

t its Aylesford site near Maidstone, Panattoni, the world’s largest privately-owned industrial developer, has just handed over a 621,000 sq ft facility for Tesco, the UK’s largest retailer.

The handover marks the near completion of the firm’s £250 million investment which has secured DHL, Evri, Fowler Welch, Amazon and Marley Tiles on Panattoni Park Aylesford, the 90-acre logistics and distribution park close to the M20.

Tesco’s facility is designed to meet its specific operational needs, offering a 300,000 sq ft chilled section, a 100,000 sq ft freezer area, and extensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for its fleet of HGVs and delivery vehicles, as well as staff parking.

The building’s 90,000 sq metres of roof-

Panattoni’s commitment to sustainability saw it crush and recycle 125,000 cubic metres of concrete during the site’s demolition, saving 150,000 kilogrammes

mounted solar panels are the equivalent to more than 12 Wembley football pitches and can generate 5MVa of renewable energy.

of carbon dioxide. This concrete was all reused during the construction, successfully removing 110,000 lorry miles from the local road network.

DELIVERING FOR THE COMMUNITY

At Aylesford, Panattoni delivered five kilometres of cycle and footpaths, and the £8m Bellingham Way link road, so easing A20 congestion and reducing pollution. A bus service will link Aylesford to the park and Maidstone. More than 20 acres of land have also been restored for nature, with £400,000 invested in partnership with Kent Wildlife Trust.

CONFIDENCE TO DELIVER MORE

Over the North Downs, the first phase of Panattoni Park Sittingbourne – which is the county’s largest speculative property development in more than a decade – is nearing completion.

The construction of two units, offering 439,228 sq ft and 205,320 sq ft of high-quality logistics and distribution space, will complete this spring.

The Sittingbourne site will also incorporate the latest sustainability measures, with photovoltaic panelling generating a fifth of the energy required by the site (1.35MVa). As at Aylesford, all the buildings will achieve a BREEAM sustainability rating of Excellent and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A.

Panattoni is also creating a 58,000 sq ft high-quality logistics and distribution building already pre-let by DPD, adjacent to its Sittingbourne site.

ON THE DOORSTOP

Recognising that Tunbridge Wells’ A21 connections make an attractive offering to the distribution industry, Scannell Properties and Royal London Asset Management Property secured planning consent for its TN2 Gateway, a 500,000 sq ft logistics scheme at Kingstanding Business Park.

With a £135m Gross Development Value, TN2 Gateway will offer nine flexible units configured to meet the need of occupiers ranging from 23,000 sq ft to 175,000 sq ft, with easy access to the A21

Will you, won’t you? 10 reasons to stop procrastinating about making a Will

Would your hard-earnt money go where you want it to if the worst were to happen? A staggering 57% of UK adults have never made a Will – that’s 30 million people. Richard Shearing, head of the Private Client team at JE Bennett Law, explains the top 10 reasons people give for not making a Will – and the reasons why you should.

1. ‘I’m tempting fate‘ – Making a Will does not shorten your life.

Richard Shearing

2. ‘I’ll do it when I’m a bit older’ – Accidents and illness can happen at any age.

3. ‘I don’t earn enough to make a Will necessary’ – Add up your total personal wealth carefully and you may be surprised.

4. ‘My family will sort things out without any problems’ –Unfortunately difficulties can arise, even in the closest of families.

5. ‘My husband (or wife) will inherit everything anyway’ – If you die without making a Will leaving a family, your spouse may well not inherit your entire estate, and this can cause complications, particularly if you have children.

6. ‘I have no-one to leave it to’ – If you have no close relatives then it’s likely to go to distant relatives if you don’t make a Will – often people that you have never met or had any interest in you.  Would you really want this?

7. ‘Solicitors are too expensive so I will do it myself’ –Preparing a Will properly takes skill and experience; when home-made Wills go wrong, it is a lot more costly.

8. ‘I made a Will years ago’ – Life throws curveballs at us and situations change.  It’s a good idea to check every year that your Will reflects your current wishes and circumstances.

9. ‘I have nobody who could be my executor’ – If there is nobody that can fulfill this role, then our partners would be pleased to act as your executors for you.  Indeed, many lay executors instruct us to administer estates on their behalf as it can be a complicated and stressful process, for which they don’t get paid.

10. ‘It’s all too much of a worry’ – We have been taking away these worries for many years, so why not let us help you so you can have peace of mind.

With proper advice and gentle guidance, we can make writing your Will a stress-free experience and help you to plan for your own future and that of your loved ones.

JE Bennett Law is an industry leading firm based in Tunbridge Wells. Its growing Private Client work is built on the central ethos of caring that underpins its core expertise of helping people who find themselves in vulnerable circumstances.

Image: Scannell Properties

Honouring excellence

As nominations for the second Tonbridge Business Awards open on March 24 Jess Gibson of the TN card tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine why she’s so excited to be celebrating Tonbridge’s finest businesses once again in June…

The now annual Tonbridge Business Awards event showcases excellence across all sectors, highlighting the dedication and innovation that local enterprises bring to the town.

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is proud to be the official Media Sponsor of the event, reinforcing our growing presence as both a printed and digital publication of influence in Tonbridge. The second year of Tonbridge Business Awards will take place on June 26th at the EM Forster Theatre at Tonbridge School and nominations open on March 24. There are 12 awards which feature a diverse range of categories in order to recognise achievements across multiple industries. Details of each category can be found below.

SPONSORS: The success of the Tonbridge Business Awards is bolstered by the generous ongoing support of local sponsors: Tonbridge School,

New Business

Sponsored by CHS Networks IT support Tonbridge

Honouring emerging businesses under two years old that show innovation, growth, and entrepreneurial spirit, making a strong impact on Tonbridge’s business community.

Food & Drink Business

Celebrating businesses that deliver outstanding quality, creativity and service in Tonbridge’s food and drink industry, from restaurants and cafés to producers and hospitality.

Retail Business

Recognizing exceptional retailers, both in-store and online, that offer top products, customer service, and shopping experiences, driving innovation and enhancing Tonbridge’s retail scene.

Creative Business

Sponsored by RankFresh Honouring businesses built on creativity, from art and photography to PR, marketing, and social media, showcasing originality, audience engagement and impact.

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Inkerman London and Odyssey Events, underscoring their continued commitment to recognising business excellence in our community.

CHARITY PARTNERS: This year's awards will support three local charities: Babons Cancer Support, FEAST Food Project, and West Kent Mind, with funds raised from ticket sales helping these organisations with their invaluable work within the Tonbridge community.

Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to submit their entries starting from March 24th. The awards ceremony promises to be a memorable evening, celebrating the dedication and achievements of Tonbridge's business community.

For information and to download an entry form, visit tonbridgebusinessawards.uk For sponsorship opportunities, contact Jess Gibson at jess@thetncard.com

Health & Wellbeing Business

Sponsored by Benenden Hospital

Celebrating businesses that improve physical and mental well-being, from gyms to healthcare providers, through innovation, care, and dedication to our community.

Hair & Beauty

Recognizing salons, stylists, and beauty professionals who excel in service, creativity, and expertise, helping clients to look and feel their best.

Small Business of the Year

Sponsored by ABMV Chartered Accountants

Honouring small businesses that show innovation, resilience, and strong contributions to the local economy through growth and customer commitment.

Large Business of the Year

Sponsored by Cooper Burnett Solicitors

Celebrating established businesses demonstrating growth, leadership, and innovation while having a significant impact on Tonbridge’s economy and industry standards.

Key Dates:

• ENTRIES OPEN: 24TH MARCH

• ENTRIES CLOSE: 6TH MAY

• CEREMONY: 26TH JUNE

Employer of the Year

Sponsored by GFHR Consulting

Recognizing businesses that prioritize employee well-being, growth and engagement, fostering a supportive and empowering workplace.

Businessperson of the Year

Sponsored by Berry & Lamberts Solicitors

Honouring individuals who excel in leadership, innovation, and dedication to their business and the wider community.

Changemaker Award

Sponsored by Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce

Recognising businesses making a real difference through social responsibility, sustainability, and community impact beyond profit.

Members’ Choice Award

Sponsored by Clarke Williams

Decided by the TN card community, this celebrates our best loved local businesses, recognized for customer service, engagement, and commitment to rewarding customer loyalty.

CooperBurnett LL supports Walk Tonbridge Festival for fifth year

CooperBurnett LLP is thrilled to be supporting the fifth Walk Tonbridge Festival, which will be taking place in September 2025. When the Festival launched in 2021, we were still navigating the pandemic and the founder of Walk Tonbridge, James Pavlou, had done so much to get the residents of Tonbridge out into their town and the surrounding countryside to enjoy the simple pleasure of walking.

Over the years, the Walk Tonbridge Festival has raised an incredible £88,000 for charity, with around £43,000 of that heading to the Tonbridge foodbank Sustain.

The flagship event, the Walk Tonbridge Marathon, is taking place on Sunday September 21. It has grown substantially over the years and is jointly organised by James and CooperBurnett Senior Associate, Katie Hilsdon.  In 2021, just 17 participants bravely tackled the 26.2 miles while, in 2024, there were an incredible 225 walkers. We are so proud that Partner, Sarah Strong, has completed every single Walk Tonbridge Marathon to date.

“I can’t tell you how thankful I am to have

“I can’t tell you how thankful I am to have CooperBurnett pledge its support to Walk Tonbridge Festival for yet another year”

CooperBurnett pledge its support to Walk Tonbridge Festival for yet another year,” says James Pavlou from Walk Tonbridge.

“They don’t just ‘talk the talk’ but truly ‘walk the walk’ by supporting me with the organisation (a big shout-out to Katie Hilsdon!), volunteering, promoting the events and also sending teams to take part in the Walk Tonbridge Marathon.”

James continues: “We have set ourselves the goal of encouraging 300 people to take part in the Walk Tonbridge Marathon this year, while we are also looking to add in a family element. Watch this space!”

As ever, the Walk Tonbridge Festival will include a programme of guided walks, which will be announced nearer the time. Last year, participants enjoyed walks including ‘Lost Leisure’, ‘The Making of Modern Tonbridge’ and ‘Secrets of The Parish Church’.

“We are hugely proud to have been involved with the Walk Tonbridge Festival since the start and have so much admiration for James and his wife Paula for everything they’ve done to make the Walk Tonbridge Festival the huge success it is,” says CooperBurnett Partner, Joseph Oates. “I was one of the original group of 17 people who completed the first Walk Tonbridge Marathon and it’s incredible how the event has grown over the years. I am confident that, by the end of September this year, we will be celebrating the fact that the Festival has raised more than £100,000 over the years for charity.”

Historic Town Hall unveils new business hub

Anew, modern workspace designed to give local people the support they need to start and grow businesses has officially opened at the Town Hall in Tunbridge Wells.

Previously used exclusively by the council, two-thirds of the historic building has now been turned into a modern coworking workspace, renovated heritage offices, event space, business support hub and coffee shop.

Chief Executive for Tunbridge Wells Council, William Benson officially opened the space on Wednesday March 5 at an event which saw hundreds of local freelancers and business owners join together to explore the building and learn about the support it can offer.

Extensive renovations have taken place over the past twelve months with the building now boasting 40 new small and medium offices, a coworking space for up to 36 people, a number of meeting rooms and a brand new coffee shop. Not just a workspace, the Town Hall will provide support and guidance to local businesses to help them grow, boosting the local economy.

The Town Hall is operated by small business experts, Town Square Spaces Ltd (TownSq), which also oversaw the renovation of the building.

to achieve Financial Wellbeing

MAKING FINANCIAL PLANNING SIMPLE, ACCESSIBLE, AND STRESS-FREE Never had advice before? Not sure where to start? Money causing you unnecessary stress? You’re not alone.

Matthew Forbes DipPFS Director

Team spirit

Last month Unaggi Coaching launched its new enterprise with a fantastic event at The Old Auction House.

Unaggi’s co-founders Charlette Pomme and Georgia Mahony invited 80 guests to celebrate the inaugural launch of their unique business which aims to empower individuals.

On the night, Charlette and Georgia offered educational talks to explain the science behind the mechanisms in order to create success, and also hosted a live coaching experience.

They told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine that the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees sharing how eye-opening the insights were. Comments included: "Groundbreaking. Absolutely fascinating. I’ve had a lot of light bulb moments

today. This needs to be taught in all big companies.”

Unaggi Coaching empowers individuals and businesses through science-backed Emotional Intelligence assessments, education and coaching. Driving lasting change in performance, communication, culture, leadership and personal success.

For more information visit: unaggicoaching.com

John Knight Photography

Support Your Team’s Wellbeing

Henry Adekoya, health and fitness professional with over 30 years of experience as a personal trainer, Henry is also the Managing Director of Revive Health Fitness, corporate wellness retreats. Henry has adapted his knowledge and experience to provide wellbeing programs that are highly beneficial to businesses and their employees. The programs Henry provides can be off site aways days and / or wellbeing presentations.

Increase Engagement & Productivity

Presentation workshops are the perfect way to engage an audience. These workshops are specially designed to educate and inspire teams on various topics such as; physical health, stress management, nutritional health and overall wellness strategies. These presentations not only provide value but also give insights into how tailored wellness programs can enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism and improve employee satisfaction, creating a positive workplace environment.

Maximise ROI with ‘Revive’ Wellbeing Workshops

Did you know that businesses lose around *128Bn annually due to sickness, absence and presenteeism?

Research shows that prioritising employee wellbeing can increase productivity by up to *40% and deliver a remarkable **£5 ROI for every £1 spent on wellbeing initiatives.

Source: *Vitality Health - **Deloitte

Why Your Businesses Needs This Presentation Workshop

In today’s hybrid working world, wellbeing is no longer optional. It’s a data driven strategy for success. The Wellbeing Workshop will equip your team with the tools and knowledge to, reduce stress and absenteeism, help decrease staff turnover, boost resilience and engagement, enhance productivity and team performance.

‘Revive’ Workshop Highlights:

• Stress Management & Mental Wellbeing - Building resilience and reducing work related stress.

• Nutrition & Obesity Awareness - Encouraging healthier habits to improve energy and focus.

• Disease Prevention - Addressing lifestyle related conditions such as, heart disease and musculoskeletal issues.

• Fitness & Motivation - Practical ways to incorporate exercise and set achievable targets.

• Hydration & Sleep - Understanding their vital role in sustaining health and performance.

Results That Matter

By adopting a culture of wellbeing, your business will cultivate a thriving high performing workplace prepared to excel in a competitive market.

Get Inspired

Benefit from an experienced health and fitness professional passionate about helping businesses create healthier more productive teams. Book a consultation today and learn how our wellbeing presentation workshops can help transform your team and boost your bottom line.

Contact Henry today: 07909 984547

revivehealthfitness.co.uk

Toasting 20 years of success

SJD Projects recently held a social event at Essence on The Pantiles to celebrate 20 years in business.  Since the land and development company was first established in 2005 it has gone on to become one of the area’s most successful property development businesses.

SJD’s founder Stephen Donnelly said he and his team threw the party as they wanted to show their appreciation to the many developers and property people who have been such an integral part of the company’s success over the past two decades.

On the night Atelier de Linde Architects were also recognised for their support and contribution to SJD after the two companies started successfully collaborating on projects 12 months ago. Their innovative partnership was featured in this magazine’s February

edition (copies pictured). The exclusive interview focused on how the two specialist firms are complementing one another courtesy of their industry expertise, resources and collective forward-thinking spirit.

Stephen Donnelly, SJD’s Director, told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine that the event was a huge success, enjoyed by all the guests who attended.

“We don’t often host events but we wanted to put on an evening where property people could socialise with like-minded individuals and hopefully begin professional relationships of mutual benefit.

“As always, the food and service provided by Bibi, Roger and all the team at Essence, which is headed up by Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar, was first class. Here’s to the next 20 years of doing business!”

YOUR BUSINESS, OUR SAFE HANDS

Have a real conversation about your insurance

Having a local office means we’re never far away if you need us. Give us a call or pop into:

NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells 55 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1XU 01892 337488

Will the next Budget deliver boom or gloom?

Ahead of the government’s Spring Budget being announced on March 26, we asked some of this publication’s trusted professional experts to comment on what they would like to see in the Chancellor’s latest economic plans. Read on to learn more…

PROPERTY:

Deborah Richards, Founder, Maddisons Residential

“There is not the same sense of unease towards the upcoming spring budget”

When Chancellor Rachel Reeves, announced the discovery of the £40 million ‘Black Hole’ last year, there was accompanying unwelcome news that the Autumn Budget would contain punitive measures to address the shortfall. The property market held its breath, fearful of where the Chancellor’s scrutiny would fall. And we did see some historic changes. These included agricultural farms above a certain value would no longer be free of inheritance tax, and anyone purchasing anything other than their principle private residence, would need to pay even more stamp duty. Thankfully, Capital Gains Tax rates on selling a second property did not change.

With many buyers keen to beat the deadline of the higher stamp duty allowances, there is not the same sense of unease towards the upcoming spring budget. There is always a desire to help first time buyers access the property market, which the increased stamp duty levels did well, so I would love to see this addressed once more - but I think that is highly unlikely! Equally, I hope that landlords are encouraged to hold their private rental stock, with Capital Gains Tax rates held at their current level, and indeed tax incentives introduced. There is an extreme shortage of good rental stock, which is only pushing rental prices ever higher. However, with the backdrop of so much change over recent years, the overwhelming sentiment of the industry is that it simply must not become even harder and expensive for people to buy or sell a property.

EMPLOYMENT

Neil Simmons, Director, TN Recruits

“Balancing various factors so businesses can expand will be crucial”

The upcoming Spring Statement on 26 March 2025 is poised to introduce several

Publican pleads for VAT cuts as lifeline for hospitality sector

Tunbridge Wells businessman Brian Whiting owns and operates four popular gastro pubs  and argues that the hospitality industry is in dire need of some form of VAT relief.

When we posed the question: What realistically would you like to see Government do in the budget?  He replied: “Let’s ignore the word realistically…they should reduce VAT for the hospitality industry which is what the rest of Europe has done for years.  Twenty per cent of the bill is just wrong going to the government along with all the other taxes collected in hospitality like duty, business rates, PAYE, National insurance etc.”

Brian Whiting has pressed for VAT

measures that could positively influence recruitment, particularly for small businesses.

cuts for a number of years and is already counting the cost of the last budget which has left him facing additional costs of £160,000 a year for staff and premises.

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

“Right at this moment I would bite your arm off if we break even,” he said.

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

WH Pubs currently employs 143 people across the four family run businesses.

factors will be crucial for businesses aiming to expand their teams in the coming year.

Increased Employment Allowance: The government plans to raise the Employment Allowance from £5,000 to £10,500 and remove the £100,000 cap. This change will enable eligible employers to hire up to four full-time employees on the National Living Wage without incurring employer National Insurance contributions, effectively reducing the cost of recruitment for small businesses. Extension of the Seasonal Worker Scheme: The announcement of a five-year extension to the UK's Seasonal Worker Scheme aims to address labour shortages in sectors like agriculture. This initiative is expected to provide a more stable and predictable workforce, benefiting industries that rely on seasonal labour. While these measures offer potential benefits, it's important to consider them alongside other proposed changes, such as increases in employer National Insurance contributions and the National Living Wage, which may impact overall employment costs. Balancing these

FINANCE

Danielle Friend, Founder of Create Balance Accountants

“Market confidence is at its lowest ebb for two years” It has been a difficult few months following the Chancellor’s seismic – and incredibly controversialchanges which include the increase of National Insurance Contributions for employers, affecting hospitality and single Director businesses in particular. This, coupled with reducing spend in general, is quite a bitter pill to swallow for businesses - of all sizes. I would be lying if I said the current government is hurting pretty much every commercial sector right now. But would an alternative party do better? Personally, Rachel Reeves’s budget feels anti-business and anti-aspirational in terms of running our country’s finances, but with a massive black hole to fill, options are limited. Market confidence is at its lowest ebb for two years and support for households and businesses is very much needed. So, on March 26, will

the Chancellor pull a rabbit out of a hat - or will it be another nail in the coffin of entrepreneurship? All of that remains to be seen...

HUMAN RESOURCES:

Gemma Farina, Managing Director, GFHR

“We need real investment in small businesses including tax incentives, hiring and support”

As an HR consultant working closely with small businesses, I know firsthand how much they contribute to the UK economy. But right now, many are feeling the pinch with rising costs, National Insurance (NI) increases, and the challenge of keeping good employees while affording higher wages. That’s why I’m hoping the upcoming Budget brings real, practical support to help them not just survive, but grow.

One big concern is the NI increase, which could make hiring more expensive and put small businesses off from expanding their teams. A reduction in employer NI contributions or some form of relief would make a huge difference, allowing businesses to keep hiring rather than cutting back.

Beyond that, we need real investment in small businesses. Tax incentives, hiring support, and funding for training could help owners bring in the right people and up-skill their teams. The more support we give small businesses now, the more we help them grow into the big employers of tomorrow.

Small businesses take risks every day to create jobs and drive the economy forward. Let’s hope this Budget Statement gives them the backing they need to keep doing just that!

HOUSING:

Tara de Linde, Director and Architect at Atelier de Linde

“The Chancellor has an opportunity to boost economic growth”

With the upcoming Budget on March 26, the architecture and construction industries will be watching closely for measures that support sustainable growth, housing delivery, and infrastructure investment. The UK faces a pressing need for policies that accelerate planning reform, improve housing supply, and incentivise sustainable design.

From large listed companies to generations of families...

...we have the depth and breath of expertise to help you through every twist and turn in your professional and personal

life. Our award winning, experienced lawyers are... ...with you all the way.

A key priority should be streamlining the planning process. Delays and uncertainty hinder development, particularly for small and medium-sized practices. A commitment to faster decision-making and clearer guidance on net-zero building regulations would provide much-needed clarity.

“Small businesses take risks every day to create jobs and drive the economy forward. Let’s hope this Budget Statement gives them the backing they need”

Investment in green infrastructure is also critical. Expanding funding for retrofitting existing buildings, enhancing energy efficiency grants, and supporting low-carbon materials could significantly reduce the built environment’s carbon footprint. Additionally, we hope to see further support for modern methods of construction (MMC), which improve efficiency and sustainability.

Tax incentives for SMEs in architecture and construction would encourage innovation, allowing practices to invest in technology and training. The Chancellor has an opportunity to boost economic growth while ensuring that development aligns with environmental and social priorities. We hope to see bold, long-term strategies that support both the industry and the wider economy.

“We help drive real digital growth”

Rank Fresh is an award winning digital marketing agency specialising in SEO, PPC, social media and website development. Eileen Leahy meets its founder and director Nick Lima to discover what sets this pioneering business apart – and how it can help effectively transform your company’s online presence and sales revenue…

Nick Lima wakes up every day at dawn, gets ready, downloads a few inspiring podcasts, puts on his headphones and power walks to work. “I’m a real morning person so that is when I have the opportunity to soak up as much information as possible.”

The founder and director of Rank Fresh, a pioneering digital media agency, says this is one of the most precious times of his working week as it’s a great opportunity for Nick to ‘absorb’ all that’s happening in his fast-paced profession.

“It’s the time when I feel I can absorb things and then feed them into my day,” continues Nick as we sit down to chat at his town centre HQ, located in The House, just off Monson Road.

“Everything moves so fast in the digital domain so it’s really important to keep ahead of the curve,” he explains.

Nick worked for many years in the travel industry and eventually ended up in running his own business. At this time the internet was just starting to become a force to be reckoned with and, being a typical entrepreneur, Nick wanted to know how he could be part of it all.

“I freelanced for a bit and really enjoyed discovering more about the power of search engine optimisation (SEO) and later pay per click (PPC). That eventually led to me starting Rank Fresh in 2011.”

The name by the way is a clever one: it reflects Nick’s key aim of keeping his clients’ branding ‘ranked’ but also ‘fresh’ –in other words relevant in an ever shapeshifting industry.

“What gives us our ultimate point of difference is that we don’t have a templated approach. Each client, whether local or global, is afforded a very bespoke

• WEB DESIGN: we deliver clean, modern website design that effectively communicates your product or service

• PPC (PAY PER CLICK): these ads swiftly boost sales, attract new customers and improve brand recognition

• SEO (SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION): we have seen 400% increases in organic revenue for clients

“Our ultimate point of difference is we don’t have a templated approach. Each client is afforded a very bespoke service

service and crucially gets good return on their investment with us. We are a relatively small team – we are five fulltime, employing freelancers as and when needed. That means you can always talk directly to one of us. We take the time to talk our clients through things in a practical way.

Nick says that at Rank Fresh they like to have partnerships with companies and ensure they feel part of the team. “I like to think we are an extension of their

• APP DEVELOPMENT: at Rank Fresh we transform your ideas into reality with our custom app development

• SOCIAL MEDIA: our paid social strategies maximise reach, drive conversions, and attract high-value leads

• SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT: we understand that each business has its own set of requirements. That’s why we craft software solutions that fit your business like a glove

business. If they want a digital marketing department then we can provide that for them.

“We offer resources around web design, SEO, PPC, software development and social media ads. Last year we started a new app development service as well.”

Some of Rank Fresh’s local clients include The Finance Hub, the TN card, Solar Serve, Presence & Co, e-go bike and Concept Builders.

“When businesses sign up with us, we spend the first month or so just immersing ourselves in their industry; looking at the competitors, understanding their product. We are hyper focused in terms of the work we do.”

One of Rank Fresh’s principle goals for 2025 is to dive deeper into the world of Artificial Intelligence. “AI conversational search is going to be a game changer so we are paying a lot of attention to how that is developing.”

Nick’s clients are 50% local and the rest can be based just about anywhere. “We work with people all over the UK but also as far as Australia, Turkey and Canada but the key thing is we are still very personalised. We can give the big agency service without their sort of prices.”

And despite having a global reach, Nick tells me that he is a big champion of helping local businesses to thrive.

“It is so rewarding to see a business really take off and thrive when they work with us. That could be a one-off job building a website or carrying out specialised SEO searches and PPC on a monthly basis.

“Most of our clients have rolling contracts with us so they don’t have to worry about the online element of their business. We work with so many different people – from plumbers to financiers and hospitality clients to estate agents – but we treat and curate our services on an individual basis.

“I love working locally. Tunbridge Wells is such an entrepreneurial and vibrant place – as well as a great business hub. We are very lucky here.”

Call: 01892 711 175 Email: grow@rankfresh.com Web: Rankfresh.com

London Calling

“Our customers like to speak to humans – not bots”

In her column for this month Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential explains how you can lure the lucrative London buyer to consider buying your home…

Co-founder of Fixio, Jon Traquair, tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine how a remote support service launched during the pandemic has proved to be one of the tech firm’s most invaluable services to keep clients connected online…

STunbridge Wells has for some time now been a popular destination for the London buyer, seeking a balance between suburban tranquillity and easy access to the capital in more affordable homes.

The reasons for its popularity are plentiful. There are excellent transport links, with direct trains to London, the wider road network and the M25 close at hand, and the continent within easy striking distance. Its primary and secondary school provision is first class, with a coveted grammar school system and other popular state and independent options.

ince launching in Tunbridge Wells in 2012, Fixio have always tried to offer more than meets the eye. They were the first and only shop in Tunbridge Wells to offer in-store Apple repairs including iPhones and iPads, and are still unique in that they offer both Apple authorised repairs and now third party repairs. They also sell brand new Apple tech alongside pre-owned products, which is also unique, not only to Tunbridge Wells, but across the UK.

Jon originally ran the MacMan business from its first shop on The Pantiles, before moving to the current location on Goods Station Road, right in the heard of Tunbridge Wells town centre, and rebranding as Fixio.

The leafy parks such as The Grove, Dunorlan Park and Calverley Grounds, offer green spaces where families can relax in truly beautiful surroundings. Additionally, the town’s proximity to the countryside and areas of outstanding natural beauty, like the High Weald, as well as the coast, provide a perfect backdrop for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits.

The tech specialist introduced an increasingly popular remote support service in 2020, which customers have continued to use more and more, and

The architecture is gorgeous, with

“A London buyer will only commit once they have

making a large purchase decision, a London buyer will only commit once they have completed extensive research to understand the local market. Equally, they tend to be drawn to certain areas of the town, only moving to the more affordable but arguably better value areas once they have lived in the town for a few years, and want the practicalities of offroad parking and a larger garden.

We sell many, many properties to London buyers, helped through our affiliation with The Mayfair Office. So if

in particular Fixio’s Business Support packages.

buyer, in the belief that this coveted purchaser will sell their small flat in the capital and arrive with armfuls of cash ready to splurge on their new home.

“We launched these services during the Covid lockdowns, as we wanted to pivot out business model to meet the needs of our customers, who were now relying on

Our town certainly presents better value than the capital, but just like anyone

photography to showcase your house is first class, and the words target the search needs of this group. With the right agent and a product that appeals, you too could attract a London buyer, just as I was many years ago.

us more than ever. Much of this was due to home-working, but also, our physical shops were forced to shut due to the Government restrictions,” explains Fixio owner and founder Jon Traquair. Fixio’s remote support has proved to

www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

Jon (2nd from left) pictured with some of the Fixio team

be such a success over the past five years that Jon and his Fixio colleagues are still offering it as an ongoing service for their customers.

“From as little as £35 per person per month, you can make use of unlimited online and telephone support. And for an additional £14 per month you can guarantee someone working on your issue within one hour,” states Jon.

Since launching, Fixio’s Business Support client base has grown, and they now proudly boast over 50 separate businesses as clients across Kent and Sussex who have signed up to their guaranteed response time Business Support package. Fixio have built up a dedicated team of engineers based in their Crawley office to provide this service.

“Our typical customer is usually a small business who doesn’t have an in-house IT department, but who are reliant on their tech. So when it suddenly doesn’t work, they need someone to jump on it as soon as possible - and that’s where we come in.”

Jon adds that Fixio also offer this special service to one-man-band enterprises too. “We have a few customers who are freelancers, and the service is invaluable to them, as deadlines are often so tight.”

He says that the largest customer signed up so far is based on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells and has over 30 members of staff. “They are extremely

“As well as remote business support, Fixio also offers its business customers a whole host of additional technology packages at reasonable rates

Making tax digital

by Darren Austin at Synergee

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is a UK government initiative aimed at simplifying tax administration by requiring businesses and individuals to keep digital records and submit tax updates online.

It was first mooted in 2015 and came into force for VAT from April 2019. This was not a significant change as, whilst it brought in a requirement for digital record keeping, VAT was already reported quarterly so there was no change in submission frequency.

The next phase is to bring it in for income tax from April 2026. Not only will this require digital records (which could be spreadsheets but preferably dedicated accounting software), it also brings in quarterly reporting rather than the current annual personal tax return. It will be mandatory where a sole trader (not a partner of a partnership) or landlord:

• Receives income from self-employment and/or property before 6 April 2025, and

• Is registered for Self-Assessment, and

• Has qualifying Income of more than £50,000 in 2024-25, dropping to £30,000 in the following year.

Qualifying income refers to the total earnings received in a tax year from self-employment and/or property. It is the gross income (also known as turnover) before any expenses are subtracted. For example, for property income, this will be the total rent collected, before any management fees, expenses or finance costs are deducted.

Quarters will default to 5/7/26, 5/10/26, 5/1/27 and 5/4/27 with submission deadlines being the 7th of the following month. A submission will be required for each separate business as well as one for UK property portfolios and a separate one for overseas properties. There will be a new penalty regime for late filing. In addition to the quarterly reports, a final submission will be required on or before 31 January following the tax year which makes any tax adjustments to the items submitted (such as disallowing personal elements, deducting capital allowances etc.) and adding details of other items such as interest or dividends received and pension contributions paid. This replaces the Personal Tax Return. In terms of digitisation for better records, I’m all for it. In terms of simplification, a minimum of five submissions rather than one seems to have missed the objective.

satisfied with Fixio since choosing to switch from their previous suppliers to us, after having used us for ad-hoc Apple repairs for many years previously.”

“They have an interesting mix of both Windows PCs and Apple Macs in their office, so we were the ideal choice having expertise in both. They came to us wanting a cloud solution for remote workers, but also needed control of their data. Implementing a cloud solution alongside an in-house service, we’ve managed to meet both requirements.

“Their data is now easily accessible from the cloud, and securely retained in-house, giving them a greater disaster recovery solution. This hybrid model is certainly a niche we pride ourselves in being particularly good at, if we do say so ourselves!”

As well as business support, Fixio also offers its business customers a wide range of additional technology packages at reasonable rates with locally based customer service. “We can deliver a whole host of broadband packages, Starlink setups for outdoor offices, VoIP systems for customers’ phone lines, and mobile phone contracts,” confirms Jon.

Website: fixio.co.uk

Email: tw@fixio.co.uk

Call: 01892 300 999

If you have any questions you'd like to ask Darren he can be contacted on 01892 772960

www.synergee.org.uk

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

“I want to help people find their dream home”

I’m really excited to share my news with you,” smiles Becky Moran as we sit down to chat for our cover feature.

The successful local business woman has just spent the previous 45 minutes having her picture taken by our photographer David. And despite moving around numerous nooks of a gorgeous location house at high speed and pulling off a number of chic outfit changes – Becky does so without any fuss or complaint. She is focused, polite and very personable.

And as I soon discover these are just some of the qualities that have led to Becky running a highly successful property business – which expanded even further at the beginning of March. At the time of our interview of course the news was still very much under wraps to the general public…

“

This is a notorious sector steeped in bureaucracy so my new venture TN Sales aims to make it as gentle as possible

So what’s the big news? Well, if you haven’t heard yet then let me explain.

Becky is adding a sales division to her fledgling property portfolio which began when she launched TN Lettings back in 2021.

In just four short years the company has become one of the area’s leading rental specialists, growing year on year.

“I think that’s because we are really passionate about what we do and have built up some very good relationships with our landlords,” explains Becky.

“Our attention to detail and steadfast commitment to clients has resulted in a business that delivers quality, personal service and therefore boasts an excellent reputation.”

Becky reveals that she wanted to build on that momentum by creating TN Sales which officially launched on March 1. Becky’s excitement at our interview about taking this seismic next step was positively palpable.

“We have been planning and getting everything ready behind the scenes for months,” she confides.

“Sales is the perfect area for my property business to branch into next as we already have landlords on our

Photography by David Bartholomew

Becky Moran is one of the most influential property entrepreneurs in Tunbridge Wells. Here the founder of TN Lettings, and the recently launched TN Sales, tells Eileen Leahy about the exciting expansion of her business –and why a bespoke approach always works…

books who want to sell their properties – especially after the Autumn Statement in October when there was a lot of panic around this part of the market. But personally speaking it’s nice to be going back to my professional roots.”

Becky tells me she cut her teeth in the world of finance – specifically specialising in mortgages.

“I worked for Santander for years, in both the residential and buy-to-let sectors and so I know this particular area of property negotiating very well. So it made total sense to use my skills and expertise once again. I know exactly how the sales progression process works.”

So far, so qualified then. Next, I then ask Becky how she will ensure that TN Sales stands out in a pretty crowded property market.

“Well it’s simple really. My ethos is all about service – and not numbers. I don’t need to hit certain targets so every

individual sale will have my undivided attention. As a TN Sales client you will feel that you’re getting a very bespoke service.”

Becky goes on to say that she thinks a lot of people start out with that intention but as they grow the personalised element can often get lost.

“The personal touch has always been so important and central to what I do. Despite TN Lettings growing exponentially over the past four years we have never lost that all-important approach. It’s at the core of what we do.”

By ‘we’ Becky means herself and a fulltime employee who helps Becky run the business. She hopes that once TN Sales is up and running in the next month she can bring on another member of staff part-time.

“Unlike a lot of businesses I will be actually looking for someone who can work in between school drop offs and pick-ups,” she laughs.

I comment that these ‘golden hours’ are what a lot of working mothers would like to have when their children are small, to which Becky replies: “Well I just think you get so much more done during that time as you are focused. I have run my business successfully and still managed to drop my two children to school and pick them up each day.”

And with the new branch to her business now launched, Becky says she is not afraid of working just that little bit extra harder.

“I’m looking forward to it as for so long our hands were tied when it came to our TN Lettings clients selling their properties. We had all their details on the system and all the property pictures but couldn’t progress further with the sales element –until now.”

But Becky hasn’t just decided on a whim to do this. True to her professional form, she has put in the groundwork to make it all happen and now has an official sales qualification – something that not every estate agent needs.

“You actually need more qualifications if you are a letting agent but I wanted to gain the necessary equivalent in order to give TN Sales the best possible advantage.”

Despite this level of commitment Becky says that she is very much still hands on when it comes to her clients.

“When people call our number – whether that is for TN Lettings or TN Sales - they will always talk to me. And no question is ever too silly! I will do everything from the initial introductions to the walk-throughs at a property. That personal approach is very key.”

And that ‘personal approach’ extends to Becky handpicking the colleagues she

HOME FRONT: THE TN SALES DIFFERENCE

"The Tunbridge Wells property market is thriving, and TN Sales is leading the way in helping homeowners achieve the best price for their properties. Whether you're selling a charming period home, a stylish modern apartment, or an exclusive residence in Calverley Park, our expertise ensures a smooth and successful sale. Our local specialists know exactly how to sell your home quickly and for the best price. By blending cutting-edge technology with proven traditional methods, we provide exceptional service and deliver the results that matter most."

about. But that’s exactly why Becky wants to disrupt the market – by ironically going back to basics.

“ We are really passionate about what we do and have built up some very good relationships

will be working with as TN Sales gets underway.

“I have deliberately ensured that everyone we use – from photographers to solicitors – share the same like-minded approach as me. It’s about making clients feel they are getting a very personalised service.”

As we all know, buying and selling houses can be a very long, protracted and utterly frustrating experience to go through. The bureaucracy surrounding it can often be a nightmare and as a seller or buyer you can often feel forgotten

“I do think that since Covid our industry has changed quite substantially. Technological advancements like virtual tours have been great, but in a way that means there’s less and less involvement between the agent, buyer and seller. I absolutely love the traditional way of doing business by showing up in person at a viewing. Talking prospective buyers through the property and helping them envision how they could live their lives there.”

In terms of TN Sales’ clients they are not just going to be all about Tunbridge Wells and its environs.

“We will also be covering Tonbridge and Sevenoaks too. I don’t see us as moving into an already established market as a threat. My attitude is there’s room for everybody and TN Sales will not be an aggressive agent in the market. As I have said we like to do things differently. And I never want people to feel intimidated. I am willing to collaborate not compete.”

I say that all of the above sounds like another Becky’s aim is to take the fear out of selling (and buying) houses.

“Yes exactly,” she confirms. “I would like to make things as swift as possible. This is a notorious sector steeped in bureaucracy and it can take months for sales to complete. So Becky says TN Sales aims to make it as ‘gentle’ as possible.

“They say buying a house is one of the most stressful and important things you’ll do in your life. So the aim is to take out all the stressful and frustrating elements and make it a much more enjoyable experience.”

This means ensuring all clients have a sales progression update – at least once a week –and are able to talk to Becky whenever they need to.

“I will always pick up the phone as I sincerely believe that talking is the key to everything in life. Emails can get misinterpreted and come across as quite heated sometimes but if you call someone on the phone then things soften. That’s what I really like – the personal contact.”

And although TN Sales is launching from a very good position, courtesy of its existing clients and reputation, Becky says that they have bigger plans afoot.

“With our new business we will also be looking to work with some local

For a company that has only been going for less than five years this is an incredible and inspiring story to share “

What's included in TN Sales' standard fee package?

Our fees are designed to be comprehensive. Here is what’s included in our standard fee package:

• Free professional appraisal: our experience and local insight combine to provide an accurate valuation.

• Multi-stage marketing plan for assurance: We create a robust plan, across a number of channels, to reach your market of buyers.

• Professional photographs: We provide well-composed, well-lit images that present your home in its best light.

• Floorplan: Our detailed floorplans help buyers understand the layout and dimensions of your home.

• Advertising on relevant property platforms: We use selected property platforms to provide reach and exposure for your property.

• Marketing across our social media: Our social media has a strong, engaged audience.

• Personal estate agent available six days a week: Our personal services are available during the week and on Saturdays.

• For Sale board: To improve visibility our package includes a For Sale board.

• IDD checks: We conduct fully compliant IDD checks.

• Full sales progression from start to finish: We keep you fully informed at every stage of your sale and will manage all buyers’ enquiries, viewings, offers and coordination of the legal process on your behalf.

• All accompanied viewings: We manage all viewings. Our experience means we can demonstrate the benefits of your home, and engage with buyers, and their questions.

• No sale, no fee: In the unlikely event that we do not sell your home, there is no charge.

• No upfront costs: You pay our fee on completion, with nothing to pay before No tie-in period. We don’t have a minimum term. We hope that our commitment to each sale and our success rate means that our customers don’t feel the need to change agents

developers. But they will be the smaller ones. It’s all about working with other independents and having the same values.”

As a very attractive start-up promotional offer Becky tells me that TN Sales will offer the first five properties (apartments or houses) a special introductory offer of a flat fee of £2.5K.

“Now if a house is worth £250,000 or more you’re saving money on any other agent. If you were selling a £500,000 house then you are getting a great deal. But if you were selling a property worth a million pounds or more well then that’s for nothing. It’s a very attractive offer.”

In addition to talking to Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Becky says that she will be launching email and Google ad campaigns but also relying on their enviable reputation to promote her new business.

For a company that has only been going for less than five years this is an incredible and inspiring story to share.

“Another point of difference is that I love helping people find their dream place. Whether that’s someone getting their first property or finding their forever home. We can deliver on a number of levels and everyone thinks the same. Ultimately, I just like finding people a home.”

So now let’s get down to basics… how much will all this incredible service cost?

“Well, like most of our colleagues there will be the usual fee fixture. But what’s different with us is that usually everyone starts at 1% but we are coming in considerably lower. When we get to the highest fee we will still be lower at 0.95%. I know this works because that’s how I started with TN Lettings.”

Becky freely admits that she can do this because she currently doesn’t have a traditional ‘shop front’.

“That means there are no overheads so we can afford to do this, but even this wasn’t the case I would definitely want to remain competitive.”

And in addition to all of this – and just like TN Lettings - there is an option to invest in other ‘added extra packages’.

This, for example she tells me, could be additional drone photography as part of your sales package. But whatever prospective sellers choose the service will remain the same.

love helping people find their dream place. Whether that’s someone getting their first property or finding their forever home “

I

“We will never expect our clients to come to us – we will always go to them,” confirms Becky. “We are working for them. I feel like everyone has gone very virtual and social media driven but I want to take it back to more traditional values and get people actually into the property and show them round.

“Open days have become very popular as a result of the pandemic but that’s a

bit like a conveyor belt approach to doing business. For me it’s about getting to know a property and feeling it. How can we live here? How can we make it ours?”

Becky adds that another point of difference for TN Sales is that clients shouldn’t feel like they are ‘being processed.’

“I know so many people talk about individuality and curating a bespoke experience but we really do. Every client is an individual to us. We want to be consistent and have the same person dealing with things from start to finish.”

And how about any future goals?

“Well, I would love an office,” confides Becky. “That is what I am aiming for. I don’t mind where. Tunbridge Wells or Southborough would be perfect. The latter has plenty of parking and is just down the road from me!”

Given what she has achieved so far running her own business, I have no doubt that this too will come to fruition.

Website: www.tnlettings.co.uk www.tnsales.co.uk

Email: info@tnlettings.co.uk and info@tnsales.co.uk

Call: 01892 249070

Instagram: @tnlettings

Do you need flexible, pragmatic HR support?

If so, then get in touch

Frustrated that HR issues prevent you from focusing on your business?

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

“Seeing real results is what drives me”

Nat Sharp, founder of Sharp Thinking Marketing, tells Eileen Leahy all about her successful business which delivers a number of unique strategies in order to empower and support small and medium-sized companies to grow and reach their potential

So Nat, why did you start your own marketing company seven years ago?

Sharp Thinking began during a career break when I decided to offer free marketing support to small businesses in Tunbridge Wells. I noticed a real gap in the lack of strategic, expert guidance for ambitious business owners. I realised that my years of experience could make a real difference so I took the leap and founded Sharp Thinking Marketing. My focus was clear from day one: to create data-driven marketing strategies that empower small and medium-sized businesses to grow efficiently and effectively. Fifty clients later, my mission remains the same. I love seeing the tangible impact of the strategies we develop together.

You have 25 years’ experience in the industry. What made you want to do things differently?

When I started Sharp Thinking, the marketing world was going through a seismic shift. Digital marketing was

Despite what many people think, marketing is truly a blend of art and science and to be a good marketer you need to be good at both

rapidly taking centre stage, but many small businesses didn’t have access to the kind of data insights and strategic know-how needed to take advantage of these changes (and this remains the biggest skills gaps in marketing teams today). I’ve always been drawn to the analytical side of marketing. Even in my earlier advertising career, I loved digging into the data to uncover the ‘why’ behind campaign performance. That analytical curiosity became the foundation of how I work - whether it’s spotting opportunities in the numbers or turning insights into strategies.

Can you pinpoint what makes Sharp Thinking unique?

It’s the practical approach I bring. I like to strip away the jargon and focus on tools and approaches that businesses can actually implement. I’m all about creating strategies that work in the real world, whether that’s a detailed checklist or digging into limited resources to uncover

Fuelling ideas.

Inspiring change.

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Solving problems. Championing ambitions.

hidden trends. I personally concentrate on building sales and marketing strategies. Think of it as working out your ‘inputs’ to optimise your ‘outputs’. I offer bespoke sales and marketing strategies and plans, training and workshops, and even oneto-one bootcamp-style sessions. They’re all designed to deliver maximum results whilst being ultra efficient with your time and budget, with the resources you have.

In what ways has your particular sector changed over the past few years?

The industry is unrecognisable. Back then, all the prestige and budgets were in above-the-line advertising. Fast forward to today, and tools like Canva, SEMrush, and even ChatGPT have democratised marketing. Small businesses can now manage aspects of their own marketing that would have been impossible without expensive agencies just a decade or so ago. But there’s a trick to using these tools effectively and that’s where I come in.

Digital marketing has also made the buyer’s journey much more seamless and trackable. With data analytics, businesses can truly personalise their strategies with greater precision and knowledge and this is where my expertise really shines.

Do you ever collaborate with other local businesses? And if so in what ways?

Collaboration is at the heart of Sharp Thinking. I’ve teamed up with local organisations  like the TN Card and spoken at events for the West Kent Expo. I’m a big advocate for Small Business Saturday and launched The Small Business Sessions to offer free advice to independent businesses.

This collaborative spirit extends to the freelancers I work with. A huge part of my business ethos is supporting local talent and building a strong, vibrant

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community of professionals.  I have four local freelancers that work for me and I regularly give work to at least three other local businesses.

Are the majority of your clients local to this area - or are they further afield?

While the majority of my clients are local, I’ve increasingly been working with London-based businesses in financial services. It’s been an exciting way to expand my expertise and help upskill marketing teams. That said, supporting my local community remains a priority— there’s so much talent in this area, and being part of that ecosystem is something I love to do.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I’d say it’s the balance of creativity and data. Despite what many people think, marketing is truly a blend of art and science and to be a good marketer you need to be good at both. I also really enjoy mentoring and giving honest, constructive advice to help people grow their business.

GET IN TOUCH:

www.sharpthinkingmarketing.co.uk natsharp@sharpthinkingmarketing.co.uk 07595 772 999

REWARD YOUR STAFF WITH A WORLD OF LOCAL

Treat your Team. Support Local. Build Community. Make a Difference.

A personalised and unique approach to insurance

Oliver Burt is a Director at Acer Insurance Services, a company he co-founded in 2019. Here the highly experienced insurance professional explains to Eileen Leahy why he and his team specialise in bespoke schemes for those with unusual and nonstandard insurance needs, and how they are growing their corporate presence here in Tunbridge Wells…

Ferris Wheels, Bumper Cars and Hook a Duck games are not subjects you’d usually associate with a conversation about insurance but that’s exactly what makes Acer Insurance Services so different – as well as extremely fascinating.

The specialist insurance firm, which was co-founded by Oliver Burt and John Lowe in 2019, was borne out of a desire to help those with non-typical and often challenging insurance needs – with a particular emphasis on the showmen community.

If you’re not familiar with that term then it refers to those men and women who work in the fairground and circus industries and it’s an area that Oliver says he has been interested in for a number of years.

“This community has to be looked after. Afterall they are running businesses and therefore need to have all the right insurance in place.”

I’m meeting Oliver to talk about his company’s areas of commercial expertise and to discover more about the kinds of businesses he and his team are working with here in Tunbridge Wells. But before we get into all of that, Oliver tells me a little bit about his professional background.

“I’ve been in the sector nearly 30 years so I am certainly experienced in most areas of insurance but what I found fascinating was those niche businesses such as the showmen community that needed more innovative and nuanced insurance policies.”

Oliver left his stable and salaried job just before the Covid crisis hit in order to start his own business – and that’s something that resulted in quite the white knuckle ride…

“Although at the time it was very scary, looking back the lockdowns were actually a boon,” says Oliver.

“Fun fairs and circuses couldn’t operate during this period so when the time came for them to reopen we had an enormous amount of business suddenly come our way with lots of businesses renewing or starting new policies.”

Since then, Oliver and his team pride themselves on finding the right type of insurances that can make a real difference to people and businesses – no matter how big, small or unusual.

“At Acer Insurance Services we help navigate any client towards the best policy for them –whether that’s an architect, a restaurant or showmen

“It’s about sourcing solutions tailored to niche needs but the other key thing about Acer is that although we are professionals, we are very friendly too. We don’t read off a script when you talk to us. We take the time to ensure we offer helpful conversations that will be relevant to each client we are insuring.”

In just five years the specialist businesses insurance company has gone from struggling with a Covid-shaped curve ball to having nearly £2,000,000 pounds worth of premium under its belt. Acer Insurance Services now boasts a team of five people, all of whom mainly work remotely but meet at least once a week at Acer’s Westerham HQ.

“We have clients all over the South East and the UK but at the moment Tunbridge Wells is where we are looking to further expand,” continues Oliver.

“Currently we are insuring local companies such as TN Recruits, Sharp Minds, 888 Taxis, Halo Gym and Maddisons.” He adds they also have a number of other retailers, restaurants

and caterers on their books too but the company is also looking to eventually expand within.

“Twenty years ago there were so many insurance brokers here in Tunbridge Wells but now most are gone and you are usually dealing with someone on the phone elsewhere in the country. With Acer Insurance Services we are very personalised and will always curate tailor made relationships with each client.

“We are committed to finding the right policy for people.”

Networking is also key to building on Acer’s portfolio of Tunbridge Wells businesses says Oliver who is a longstanding member of one of the town’s BNI chapters.

It’s important to note that all the services Acer provides are free of charge – apart from parting with your premium.

“We are always more than happy to come and talk through people’s individual circumstances. Collectively the team at Acer Insurance Services boasts a wealth of knowledge but we still pride ourselves on being independent, local, friendly and professional. We will help navigate any client towards the best policy for them –whether that’s an architect, a restaurant or showmen. Our personal service ensures you’re buying the right and affordable insurance to meet your needs.”

acerinsurance.co.uk

hello@acerinsurance.co.uk

01959 546823

Turning frustration into innovation

Local business entrepreneur, Amber Taylor, on her opportunity to develop and promote her award-winning innovative Chomp Baby product on a popular BBC show

Amber Taylor, a Tunbridge Wells-based business owner and founder of children’s tableware brand Chomp, has recently been featured on the BBC One programme The Big Idea Works.

Amber was invited on to the new TV show, which is hosted by Dragon’s Den entrepreneur and inventor Sara Davies, after she was inaugurated into the Female Inventors Club courtesy of her innovative new product the Boo Baby Suction Plate.

“My invention hopes to transform a baby’s weaning stage by tackling common parental frustrations such as mess, stress and food wastage,” explains Amber.

Amber, who has over 20 years of marketing experience and is a mother herself, worked with Sara and a team of experts to bring her vision to life on the show.

“Sara and the whole expert and production team made me feel so welcome. That's the thing about The Big Idea Works, it's a feel-good series celebrating the best of British creativity, it's a great watch for anyone who wants to feel inspired. To see my scribbled invention sketches turned into a functioning prototype was amazing and I am so thankful to the team.”

Amber, who won Best New Business at the inaugural TN card Tunbridge Wells Business event last November, says her idea came from seeing a gap in the market.

“Having been through the weaning stage twice, I was amazed at the lack of high-performance suction plates on the market,” she explains.

“Being

part of BBC1’s

The Big Idea Works was an incredible opportunity. I’m proud to be championing creativity and innovation

“I wanted to create a solution that combined excellent functionality with versatility and a playful design to make mealtimes less stressful for parents and more enjoyable for children.

“As a parent, I’m also acutely aware of the environmental impact of the baby industry. I wanted to tackle this by designing a durable, sustainable product that minimises food waste and reduces the reliance on plastic.”

Amber’s brand Chomp, is no stranger to the spotlight. Chomp is part of the prestigious Small Business Sunday Network created by Dragons’ Den entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, an accolade awarded to only 1% of UK businesses. It is also used by the likes of TV presenter Stacey Solomon, model and new mother Daisy Lowe and the queen of weaning Annabel Karmel.

Speaking further about her experience on the BBC series Amber said, “Being part of The Big Idea Works was an incredible opportunity. I’m proud to be championing creativity and innovation for parents everywhere.”

Amber’s business was originally inspired by Amber’s son who was a very picky eater.

“I found starting solids incredibly stressful so my invention is based on real

Amber (pictured right) with Sara Davies of BBC1's The Big Idea Works

Amber with Dragons’ Den star and entrepreneur Theo Paphitis

experiences during weaning. My son was very easily distracted with throwing plates, cutlery and food around, he’d do anything not to eat!

“I spoke to lots of mums to research my invention idea and found that the most common frustrations with weaning were suction plates not sticking, cutlery being launched on the floor, food wastage, mess and products not lasting.

“I am so proud that my invention addresses all these concerns to bring more joy to baby mealtimes for little ones and their grown ups.”

Since Amber’s appearance on the BBC show, she says it's been a busy time at Chomp HQ.

“In the year since the show aired, I have taken the prototype from the show into product design to develop it into a commercially viable mealtime essential, enhancing its functionality and features.

“The Bop Baby Suction Plate is ready for mass-manufacture and in order to move to that stage, I am pre-ordering this innovative new product to crowdfund for its first production run. Anyone can support our small business by ordering it now with the benefit of early-bird pricing and free gift and be one of the first to receive it in June. A charitable donation of £1 is gifted to local children's charity Family2Family for every order.”

All episodes of The Big Idea Works can be streamed any time on iPlayer – Amber’s episode is number five in the new series.

Website: www.chompbaby.com

Email: hello@chompbaby.com

Phone: 07881 373654

Instagram: @chompbabyofficial

About Chomp

Chomp creates innovative, practical tableware that empowers children and makes mealtimes a joyful experience. From reducing mess to promoting independence, Chomp’s products are designed with sustainability and functionality in mind.

The Bop Baby Suction Plate is now available for pre-order at www.chompbaby.com with early sales funding its first production run. The Bop Baby Suction Plate Set, priced at £24.99, is designed to:

• Encourage Playful Mealtimes with Less Stress and Mess: The innovative central ‘bop’ push-point keeps the plate secure through superior suction and makes attachment fun for little ones.

• Adapt to On-the-Go Lifestyles: With a matching durable lid, the plate doubles as a travel-friendly lunchbox.

• Minimise Clean-Up: Unique no-drop bungee straps prevent cups and utensils from falling, saving parents valuable time.

• Every pre-order made will donate £1 to children’s charity Family2Family supporting families in need with essential

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Celebrating five fantastic years of the TN card

The TN card marked its fifth birthday last month with a week of events supporting local independent businesses and its chosen charity partner West Kent Mind. Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine caught up with the scheme’s founder Jess Gibson to discover the reasons why it was established, and how it has helped to support so many local businesses – and helped so many residents choose local wherever possible…

The TN card was launched in 2020 by Jess Gibson. The mother of four, who boasts a marketing and events professional background, was working as a freelance social media manager in order to fit around her four young sons, when she came up with the idea of this particular initiative.

“Having got to know local businesses through my work and parenting blog, I decided to launch a reward card to encourage the local community to use independent businesses more. The thinking was that this would also help showcase the people and stories behind the brands,” explains Jess.

Initially launching for just Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge - with 20 High Street businesses - the TN card has grown rapidly year-on-year in scale, product offering and geography, successfully navigating the closure of our High Streets during the pandemic and other challenges.

“As of today, the TN card spans the TN postcodes from Sevenoaks to Tenterden, with a directory of 1000 local businesses providing exclusive offers for its 3000 members (card holders),” continues Jess. Impressively, it also hosts a podcast series, monthly member evenings, quarterly business workshops, community events as well as the Tonbridge Business Awards and the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards.

The TN card is now a certified Social Enterprise, putting social impact before profit. Sales are directed back into

“The TN card launched five years ago and now spans the TN postcodes from Sevenoaks to Tenterden, with a directory of 1000 local businesses providing exclusive offers for its 3000 members

supporting High Street partners and 10% is donated to its chosen charity West Kent Mind.

Jess reveals that the scheme’s fifth birthday celebrations began with the return of the TN card’s JustGiving fundraiser for West Kent Mind.

Jess says this had begun initially for the TN card’s first birthday in 2021, when the pandemic prevented get-togethers.

“Thanks to the generosity of TN card businesses, the fundraiser featured 100 local prizes, from restaurant meals to spa visits,” she adds.

“People were asked to donate any amount (no minimum donation) through the TN card’s JustGiving page from February 1 - 16 for the opportunity to win.”

Then on Wednesday February 12, Jess hosted the TN card’s official birthday party at Sevenoaks directory partner, Deckhouse.

“Seventy members attended the restaurant and bar for an evening of tapas and wine, plus a general knowledge quiz with prizes, speeches and birthday cake. It was a very fun evening, and gave a welcome boost in donations to the fundraiser as well as introducing many members to the team behind Deckhouse, who provide members with a complimentary dessert when ordering a meal every day of the week if they are a TN card member,” states Jess.

The fifth birthday celebrations continued on Saturday February 15, when members and their friends and family were invited for the first time to Halcyon Wealth Longmead Stadium. Tonbridge

Angels Football Club welcomed the TN card as its ‘Match Day Sponsor’.

Over 100 adults, plus children, joined Jess pre-match in the Angels Marquee, with welcome drinks and speeches, activities for the children and cupcakes gifted by Tunbridge Wells partner, Sweet Temptations Cakery.

“Members were asked to vote for their Man of the Match, who was later announced as Bailey Akehurst in the stadium after the game. And, despite a single goal defeat to Truro City, it was a special afternoon and another welcome opportunity to promote the fundraiser,” remembers Jess.

The TN card is a certified Social Enterprise, putting social impact before profit. Sales are directed back into supporting High Street partners and 10% is donated to West Kent Mind charity

tecwork provides WOW FACTOR IT & TELECOMS services and support

Back in 2017 when ‘tecwork’, our new brand, was started, our main mantra was to provide organisations in and around the Tunbridge Wells area with WOW FACTOR support.

Here are a few recent quotes from a few our customers:

1. “We have had a positive and transformative experience in telephony with tecwork. The system is great and their support is excellent. The cost saving is aIso most welcome. I can’t recommend them highly enough.”

2. “I want to thank you and the team at tecwork for the successful and almost hassle free transition of our IT to your firm. I know you did not get much support from your predecessors for it, to say the least, so all the credit goes to you for being efficient, helpful, patient and for remaining on the task till resolved when others would have just sat and waited. It seems to me, you have already resolved more issues in a few weeks than your predecessors did in years. It is a great pleasure already to work with tecwork and we are looking forward to a constructive long term relationship.”

3. “So nice to deal with a company that puts its customers needs first and really cares about customer service. If there is ever an issue the support guys leap to action and sort it quickly without any fuss .”

Do you want to be experiencing the WOW FACTOR and giving us our next testimonial? There are over 70 customer testimonials on our web site –

The JustGiving prize draw for West Kent Mind closed the following day, with a late surge in donations ensuring that its target was reached.

“Thanks to a brilliant 320 donations, a total of £4,054 was raised for the mental health charity, plus a further £862.78 in Gift Aid.”

West Kent Mind’s CEO, Stevie Rice comments: “I am bowled over by the generosity of the TN card’s members and businesses. To reach this target is wonderful. We know that so many people in our community are facing such difficult challenges with their mental health. Your donations and fantastic kindness mean that we will be able to support more people and ensure that children and young people have access to the support they need. A massive thank you.”

With celebrations now over, the TN card is focused on spring and summer events. Those announced so far include a member afternoon at Kidsbury, a Women’s Evening at The Spa Hotel and a Tour and Tasting at Chapel Down vineyard. The Tonbridge Business Awards will take place on June 26, with entries opening in March so keep an eye on the TN card’s social media platforms for more details.

For more information on the TN card visit: Website: www.thetncard.com Socials: @thetncard

Why a happier workforce equals a more successful business

Gemma Farina is founder of the award-winning independent human resources consultancy GFHR Consulting. Gemma set up the company 15 years ago with the remit of offering personalised professional assistance for employers and their employees. Here she explains the importance of investing in and supporting employee wellbeing

As the days grow longer and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time for employers to take a fresh look at employee wellbeing. Prioritising employee wellbeing can lead to increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and a happier workforce.   It might surprise you that focusing on employee wellbeing can have a direct impact on your bottom line. Research from Mind shows that poor mental health costs UK businesses up to £45billion a

“

Prioritising wellbeing doesn’t require huge budgets - small, thoughtful actions can make a big impact

year.  For small businesses, losing a key team member to stress or burnout can be particularly challenging but supporting employee wellbeing doesn’t have to be complex or costly – small changes can make a big difference.

Here are a few strategies that you might be able to implement in the workplace… Encouraging work-life balance is key. With brighter days ahead, encourage employees to take breaks, get outside, or introduce “walking meetings” if possible. If your team work remotely, suggest that they take a walk outside during break periods.  Flexible working arrangements help employees manage their time effectively, reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction.

Regular check-ins, both formal and informal, help managers understand their team’s challenges and provide the right support, fostering trust and a sense of value.

Promoting mental health awareness is another vital step. Providing access to resources such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) or simply signposting support services can make a significant difference. Normalising conversations around mental health helps remove stigma and encourages employees to seek help when needed. It is important businesses support their Managers to have these conversations with their teams, by giving them the skills and training.

It is also vital to recognise and reward contributions, whether through a simple ‘thank you,’ a team lunch, or a small reward.  Gesture such as these can boost employee morale and motivation. Another factor can be to create a positive

work environment, to help employee wellbeing.  It’s harder if employees work remotely, but Employers could share suggestions on how to make the work environment more pleasant as even small changes like introducing plants, improving lighting, or decluttering can enhance productivity and overall happiness.

Prioritising wellbeing doesn’t require huge budgets - small, thoughtful actions can make a big impact. With spring around the corner, now is the perfect time to “plant the seeds” of a happier, healthier workplace.

If you’d like support in implementing wellbeing strategies tailored to your business, we’d love to hear from you.

Visit www.gfhr.co.uk for more info or email info@gfhr.co.uk

An honourable woman

Gillian Palmer, founder of The Finance Hub, had an incredible honour bestowed upon her last month to reflect her success as a brilliant entrepreneur. Here we find out more about this amazing accolade…

Gillian Palmer had the distinguished honour of being welcomed in as a Freeman of the The Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs on the eve of February 20 during a formal admission ceremony.

The Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs is an aspirant Livery Company of the City of London, comprised of individuals who have dedicated their own time and resources to building and leading successful businesses.

Its objectives include promoting excellence in the field of entrepreneurship, supporting the Lord Mayor, promoting city growth and advocating for entrepreneurs and highgrowth businesses. It also cultivates a strong network among entrepreneurs and contributes time and funds to charitable initiatives that support aspiring entrepreneurs. It also introduces young people to the opportunities of entrepreneurship.

“This honour is a testament to Gillian Palmer’s hard work, leadership, and commitment to driving success”

Gillian’s colleagues at The Finance Hub told Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine that they were ‘immensely proud’ of the Irish entrepreneur who also runs Lending Made Simple.

“We are all immensely proud of Gillian for this incredible achievement and welldeserved recognition. Her dedication, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire those around her.

“This honour is a testament to her hard work, leadership, and commitment to driving success. Congratulations, Gillian—we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!”

Get involved

In his monthly column, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together business improvement district organisation commits to live events in the town following the recent launch of the 2025 event grant scheme...

The event grants, that RTW Together BID provides to support the events scene in Tunbridge Wells, have been running every year since the BID was first set up in 2019. BID stands for a designated Business Improvement District where local companies collectively fund and manage initiatives to improve the surrounding environment.

The event grants are an opportunity to market our town as an exciting and lively destination for leisure activities, which encourages longer dwell time and increased spend for our town economy.

Last year saw the BID offer 11 event grants and just under £40,000 to support events across the town including:

• The TW Literary Festival – A fourday festival in May with international, national and local authors and illustrators

• Unfest – a May festival which nurtures local live music and emerging talent by giving free access to venues to showcase their music

• TW Fringe Festival – Two weeks of events in July featured local artists, acts and groups from the world of opera, spoken word, live bands, cabaret, comedy, dance, theatre, film and visual art

• Love Fairs – A grant to support antiques and vintage fairs which were held on The Pantiles in the Summer months

“We’d

like to strongly encourage any BID member that may not have run a public event to get in touch to see if we can help them do so

• Art of the Pantiles Festival – the inaugural weekend-long festival in September celebrated art in all its forms with live demonstrations, talks and the very first Pantiles Artist of the Year Competition

• TW Mela Festival – Free community event in July that brought the diverse communities of Tunbridge Wells together through music, food and dance

• Local & Live – A much loved three-day event in August that showcased local musicians and offered a free festival in Calverley Grounds for all music lovers

• Pantiles Food Festival – two weekendlong daytime festivals took place in

May and August with stalls selling and celebrating local produce and artisan products

• Puppetry Festival – the festival ran from October 5-13, and delivered the most ambitious festival programme yet, presenting over 40 performances and a free puppet parade for the whole town to enjoy

• TW Winter Lantern Parade – a community-led event in February 2025 with lantern making workshops, a free parade through town from Royal Victoria Place, through Camden Road and ending in Grosvenor and Hilbert Rec.

Whilst we fully endorse the value these events bring, not to mention the energy and footfall to the town, we are also strongly encouraging any BID member that may not have run a public event, but is interested in doing so, to get in touch to see if we can help.

The new funding round opened on January 15, with a deadline of March 31, and grant offers will be awarded on April 18.

As with last year’s process, the applications must be nominated by BID Members and will be assessed objectively, and favour criteria that benefit businesses e.g. local spending and interaction with levy payers.

For more information or to request an application form, please contact Grace at projectofficer@rtwtogether.com.

Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival

Is your website's contact page in fine form?

In his first of a series of columns, Gary Brindley, Founder of award-winning Kent based agency Step 3 Digital, outlines one of the most important but often overlooked components of an effective website.

well-designed contact page is one of the most underrated yet crucial elements of a business website. While businesses focus on homepage aesthetics, product pages, or SEO-optimised blog posts, they often neglect the contact page - a mistake that can cost leads, customers, and credibility.

When a visitor lands on your contact page, it's likely they're interested in your business. Maybe they have a sales

inquiry, need support, or want to collaborate. If your contact page is confusing, cluttered, or difficult to use, you risk losing hard-earned engagement. Plus, your contact page isn't just about contact info. It's another chance to show off what you do best - including key selling points that can have real impact, just at the right time.

A GOOD CONTACT PAGE = HAPPY CUSTOMERS

First impressions count, and a clean, professional contact page tells people you're a real, trustworthy business. Giving them a few different ways to reach you – email, phone, a contact form, even a chat box – shows you're ready to help. Including your address or a map (if you've got a physical location) can also really help

Your contact page should be super easy to find and even easier to use. A simple form with just

the basics is way better than asking for someone's life story. Nobody wants to fill out a novel just to say hello.

SPEED MATTERS

If someone reaches out and you take forever to get back to them, they might just find someone else who's faster. A good contact page lets people know when to expect a response, or even offers instant help with a chatbot or some FAQs.

DON'T FORGET THE SEO GOODIES!

Optimising your contact page for local searches (using location info) helps people in your area find you. And tracking how people use your contact page can give you some great insights into what they're looking for.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Your contact page is important! It's a key part of the customer's journey. By making it easy to use and quick to respond, you can turn more visitors into happy customers. Don't let a bad contact page cost you those opportunities! www.step3.digital

THOMAS Mansfield Solicitors has announced the relocation of its Tunbridge Wells office to Mount Ephraim, providing a more welcoming and accessible space for clients.

The move reflects the firm’s commitment to delivering the highest level of legal support across its core practice areas, including family law, employment law, dispute resolution and wills & probate.

Based in Tunbridge Wells and with offices in London City and throughout the Southeast, Thomas Mansfield Solicitors recently celebrated 20 years of providing expert legal advice.

The new office is designed to enhance client experience, offering a convenient and comfortable environment while maintaining the firm’s reputation for expert legal advice and personalised service. 2 Mount Ephraim benefits from excellent transport links and convenient parking, making it easier than ever for clients to visit the firm.

The new office complements the firm’s existing presence on the High Street, ensuring that clients have greater accessibility to specialist legal services. With improved facilities and a central location, the new space allows Thomas

This announcement comes as the firm’s dispute resolution team celebrates being shortlisted for the prestigious LexisNexis

Thomas Mansfield Solicitors relocates to Mount Ephraim New head of people at Thackray Williams

LEADING Kent and London law firm

Thackray Williams has appointed a new Head of People to support its next phase of growth.

Karen Bateman brings 16 years’ experience at ‘big four’ accountancy and professional services firm Deloitte, as well as working in the construction and digital transformation sectors.

“I decided to join Thackray Williams because of the genuine and obvious passion for people,” she says. “It was clear from the interview process that I would have a seat at the table – and it would be a genuine voice.

“I’m also excited to join a dynamic firm with very clear ambitions. Thackray Williams took on 25 new hires and promoted eight people last year alone. Supporting the ongoing growth is integral to my role; professionally it’s very rewarding to know that my team and I are pivotal in helping the firm realise its goals.”

She will be working with the three new

Managing Partners – Emma Thompson, Vikki Herbert and Anthony Macey, who take over the leadership of Thackray Williams at the start of April – on strategic recruitment and further developing the culture to attract and retain the best talent.

“We are on track to become a top 200 law firm, and strategic recruitment and our people culture are vital in helping us to achieve that ambition,” comments incoming Managing Partner Emma Thompson. “There’s fierce competition to attract the best lawyers, especially being headquartered in Kent where we are competing with London firms, so Karen and her team are integral to helping us deliver on our growth targets.”

“Alongside strategic recruitment goes internal development,” explains Karen, “to enable our people to be the best they can and achieve their individual professional goals, as well as an enhanced wellbeing programme, which I am currently

“The new office complements the firm’s existing presence on the High Street, ensuring that clients have greater accessibility to specialist legal services”

Legal Awards 2025, recognising excellence in legal services and commitment to client care.

Neill Thomas, Managing Director at Thomas Mansfield Solicitors, commented: “Ending 2024 with a move to Mount Ephraim and starting the new year with a prestigious award shortlisting is a testament to our firm’s growth and commitment to excellence.”

“This relocation reflects our ongoing efforts to invest in our people, services and infrastructure. Our goal is always to provide the highest quality legal advice in a setting that is both professional and welcoming.”

thomasmansfield.co.uk

“We are on track to become a top 200 law firm, and strategic recruitment and our people culture are vital in helping us to achieve that ambition”

developing in conjunction with a wellbeing expert, after feedback from staff.

“We’ll also be exploring where we can harness technology to give staff more time to concentrate on the areas where they can really add value for clients.

“My aim is to bring the best of my previous experience to Thackray Williams, aligning it to the firm’s strategic objectives whilst supporting our 140 staff.”

thackraywilliams.com

Mansfield Solicitors to better support individuals and businesses across the region.

Karen Bateman

TEAM SPIRIT: Neill Thomas (centre) pictured with his Thomas Mansfield colleagues outside their new office

Katie Hilsdon celebrates ten years with CooperBurnett LLP

Katie Hilsdon

KATIE Hilsdon, a Senior Associate in the Corporate and Commercial team at CooperBurnett LLP celebrated ten years with the firm in March. Just a year after joining CooperBurnett, she was awarded Junior Lawyer of the Year by Kent Law Society and, in 2024, was named as a ‘key lawyer’ in The Legal 500, recognised for her skills and experience. Katie graduated from Oxford University in 2009 with a degree in French and Portuguese and then embarked on a career in law, spending two years at BPP Law School in London.

A long-standing member of CooperBurnett's Charity Committee, Katie has stepped up to many challenges

herself. Over the time, she has conquered marathons; completed the Three Peaks Challenge for the hospice charity ellenor in 2016; and was also part of the team that cycled from London to Paris in 24 hours in 2019, raising money for Brain Tumour Research in memory of her cousin, Oli Hilsdon.

“Katie’s

skills, experience and friendly approach are all appreciated by our clients”

However, CooperBurnett is arguably most proud of her contribution to the firm's relationship with the Walk Tonbridge Festival. For four years running, Katie has helped to organise the Walk Tonbridge Marathon, alongside James Pavlou (founder of Walk Tonbridge). The Festival raised nearly £37,000 for charity last year, with close to £15,000 being

Law firm strengthens its business services group

CRIPPS is pleased to announce strategic senior appointments designed to enhance its operational excellence and drive continued growth. The firm has appointed Susan Roots as director of risk and compliance, and Natalia Slattery as head of business development.

Susan Roots joins the firm in the newly created role of director of risk and compliance. With extensive experience in risk management

“These appointments mark an important step in strengthening Cripps’ business services functions as the firm grows and cements its position as a leading legal practice”

and compliance, Susan will oversee the firm’s risk strategy, policies, and regulatory compliance framework. Additionally, Natalia Slattery has been appointed as head of business development, another new position created to support the firm’s growth objectives. Bringing a wealth of experience in business strategy and

client relationship management from her previous roles at EY and Dow Jones, Natalia will focus on expanding the firm’s market presence and enhancing client engagement.

“These appointments mark an important step in strengthening our business services functions as the firm grows and cements its position as a leading legal practice,” said James Beatton, managing partner of Cripps. “By investing in senior talent and key operational roles, we are reinforcing our ability to deliver exceptional service to our clients while positioning the firm for future success.”

These changes reflect Cripps’ ongoing commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and strategic growth as it strives to be the pre-eminent law firm in the South.

cripps.co.uk

donated to the Tonbridge-based food and fuel bank, Sustain.

In the meantime, she is also one of the organisers of interTWine, an off-shoot of the business forum for Tunbridge Wells, enTWine (co-founded by CooperBurnett Partner, Victoria Sampson). interTWine provides a space where aspiring professionals, managers and entrepreneurs can meet their peers.

“Katie has been a bright and enthusiastic member of our Corporate and Commercial team for a decade,” says Partner Victoria Sampson. “Her skills, experience and friendly approach are all appreciated by our clients, while Katie’s willingness to step up to support our local community, particularly through her hard work to make the Walk Tonbridge Marathon such a success over the years, is admirable. Here’s to the next ten years!”

cooperburnett.com

Thomson Snell & Passmore welcomes four more trainees

LAW firm Thomson Snell & Passmore has appointed four current Trainee Solicitors with the firm as newly qualified Solicitors. Harry Hampson and Georgette Valentine join the Wills, Estate & Tax Planning team, Oliver Downes joins the Clinical Negligence & Personal Injury team and Charlotte Wilson joins the Real Estate Disputes team. All four trained with the firm and qualified as Solicitors in March 2025.

Joanna Pratt, Senior Partner at Thomson Snell & Passmore comments: “On behalf of everyone at Thomson Snell & Passmore, I offer my warmest congratulations on these well-deserved appointments. I look forward to seeing you all shine in your new roles as you progress your careers.” ts-p.co.uk

Susan Roots Natalia Slattery

Harry HampsonGeorgette Valentine

Oliver DownesCharlotte Wilson

Social network

Located in ancient Sussex woodland near Eridge, LIMEKILN is just five miles from Tunbridge Wells. It opened in April 2024 to much acclaim - from both professional and personal perspectives alike.

Since then it has fast become THE perfect place to hire if you’re looking for an exclusive venue that’s super chic, flexible and offers a diverse range of locally sourced dining, hand crafted cocktails and various events options.

It can also afford pretty much any teambuilding experience – both inside and outside - and the good news is that at the moment it has some fantastic ‘midweek takeover’ offers to avail of.

You can hire the stunning venue and its grounds exclusively in its entirety, giving you and your colleagues access to the whole lodge and grounds. There are four versatile spaces, accommodating up to 300 guests for a reception or 200 people seated. And there’s also plenty of parking available on site – for both cars and coaches too.

If you haven’t discovered the incredible private hire lodge LIMEKILN near Eridge yet then you have a treat awaiting you… especially if you are looking for a mid-week teambuilding takeover of this amazing space. Read on to discover how you and your colleagues can be networking and then socialising there soon

Whether your dream team building day is one that involves golfing and BBQs in between meetings, or focusing on your staff’s wellbeing courtesy of yoga, Pilates and meditation sessions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Oh, and did we mention the cake baking and floristry you can get involved in too? For those looking to work part of the team building day then you’ll be pleased to hear the venue offers all the tech and modern AV equipment needed to work remotely.

As the weather warms up, the venue’s beautiful terrace comes into own and is just perfect for hosting corporate summer parties, pre-dinner cocktails or afternoon tea.

In short, LIMEKILN can meet all your needs – whether that’s a legendary launch, work anniversary or motivational away-day - without having to travel to the

and unforgettable weddings thanks to its enviable hallmarks of impeccable service, bespoke hospitality offerings, considered interiors and constant attention to detail…

Mouthwatering bespoke menus are offered by the LIMEKILN team but there is also the flexibility to choose from a variety of caterers including Kalm Kitchen, Spook, Social Pantry, Pear drop, Host.

Christmas parties were very popular at LIMEKILN and there’s huge demand for their corporate takeover days now too so if you want to book make sure you don’t delay…

For quotes and more information visit: limekilnsussex.co.uk email: limekiln@jjlmedia.co.uk

Quick,

A passion for sustainable fashion

The TN card now saves locals money at 1000 independents across Tunbridge Wells and the TN postcodes. This month founder Jess Gibson speaks to Charlotte Lyon and Gabby Icke at Through Your Wardrobe, where members enjoy 10% discount across the store

Charlotte and Gabby, what is ‘Through Your Wardrobe’?

Through Your Wardrobe is a preloved consignment agency. We sell secondhand clothing and accessories on behalf of our clients. We also sell a small quantity of overstock from various brands and sample pieces. We offer the boutique shopping experience at a more affordable price point by promoting the reuse of garments, often in brand new condition, ultimately reducing landfill and the circular fashion economy.

What is circular fashion and why is it important?

Circular fashion is the more sustainable approach to buying clothing. The aim is to prolong the life of the garments, keeping them out of landfill and make a wardrobe refresh that is a bit more affordable. As a community we need to reduce the consumption of new clothing and use what is already available. We feel it is important to use every garment as much as possible, so much goes to waste before its life is over.

What are your backgrounds and what led to you joining forces?

We are sisters, despite looking nothing alike! We have both had a keen interest in fashion for many years, both serial shoppers and have had boutiques before. Gabby has worked in clothing retail her whole career and Charlotte has always

kept some sort of retail enterprise going whilst working in other roles. 2022 saw the beginning of working on Through Your Wardrobe full time with our first store in Rye, East Sussex. Tunbridge Wells store followed in 2024.

“We stock many pre-loved pieces including labels such as Chanel, Prada, Burberry, Isabel Marant, Margaret Howell, Alexander McQueen, Wyse and Me+Em

Tell me more about how your shop in Chapel Place works.

We offer an agency style selling process. We ask that anyone wishing to sell through us makes an appointment through our website to come and show us what they have to sell. We will pick out the items we feel we have a market for and research the pricing across various different platforms to make sure we have a competitive price to sell effectively. Once the seller has agreed the pricing, we get selling and offer the items in our stores for around 8-12 weeks. When the items sell, we pay into a UK bank account on a 50/50 basis. We also offer private

shopping experiences, free of charge, generally in the evenings, so that we can tailor our stock to your party.

What’s on the rails of your Tunbridge Wells showroom?

We always have a wealth of exciting items in both our stores at any given time. We have appointments to take in new items every day, so it is worth popping in regularly to see what has come in. We stock many pieces by a range of labels such as Chanel, Prada, Burberry, Isabel Marant, Margaret Howell, MaxMara, Alexander McQueen, Me+Em, Wyse, Cos, etc. We have many items starting at £20.

Tell me about your private shopping events…

We very much prefer getting to know our customers in person and whilst we have a website, we like the old school in person shopping experience. The private shopping evenings give us the opportunity to showcase our whole inventory and tailor sizes to your party. We suggest a max of 12 people each event as this allows us to select and advise individuals on a selection that they may not otherwise try, if shopping alone. We can work to your brief or just facilitate a fun shopping experience. There is no obligation to buy, we provide complimentary prosecco for each group, bookings usually take place from 6.30pm to 10pm but we are open to specific requests.

How can we as businesses support you?

As with many retail businesses in the area, we need to showcase our items to as many customers as possible. The more buyers we have, the more sellers we can work with! We currently offer four selling appointments each day, with a max of 20 garments per appointment. If we sell through at a faster rate, we can offer more appointments to sell.

Through Your Wardrobe 13 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1YQ

Jess Gibson

“My profession is a privilege”

Gary Valentine-Fuller of GM Valentine Funerals

tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine why he knew from a very young age he would create a funeral company that put people, dignity and empathy at its heart

Some people spend years searching for their calling. I always knew mine.

As a kid, I wasn’t dreaming of becoming a footballer or an astronaut—I wanted to be an undertaker. While most children my age were watching cartoons, I was glued to Don’t Drop the Coffin, Barry Albin Dyer’s ITV documentary about life as a funeral director. Something about it struck a deep chord within me. I wasn’t afraid of death; I was fascinated by the care, the dignity, and the immense responsibility that came with looking after the departed.

From that moment on, I knew this was what I was meant to do.

LESSONS FROM THE PAST, VISION FOR THE FUTURE

At 15, I left school and walked straight into the funeral profession, starting at a well known undertakers in Peckham, Southeast London. My first job? Making tea and washing hearses. It was a humble start, but I embraced it, knowing that every great undertaker had begun the same way.

United Kingdom—a role that allows me to uphold the highest standards of care and support professionals across our industry. But at the heart of everything, my mission has remained the same: to provide families with comfort, dignity, and guidance when they need it most.

G.M. VALENTINE LTD. –A NEW STANDARD OF CARE IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS

we ensure that every detail is handled with care, dignity, and respect.

We also understand that funeral service is changing. Families today want more than just tradition; they want meaning. That’s why we focus on creating truly personal funerals, from handcrafted coffins to intimate memorials that capture the essence of a loved one’s life.

MORE THAN JUST FUNERALS – A COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY

A funeral home should be more than just a place people turn to in times of loss—it should be part of the community it serves. That’s why G.M. Valentine Ltd. is committed to supporting local families beyond the funeral itself.

We provide free advice sessions, help people pre-plan their funeral wishes with confidence, and work with local bereavement groups to ensure that no one has to face grief alone.

For us, this isn’t just business. It’s a vocation. A privilege.

A PERSONAL REFLECTION: THE HONOUR OF THIS WORK

G.M. Valentine isn’t just another funeral home - it’s the culmination of everything I’ve learned over two decades

in this profession “

I have had the privilege of working with the very best in the business, learning from seasoned professionals who dedicated their lives to this sacred duty. Their mentorship, combined with my deep passion for funeral service, shaped the way I approach my work today. Over the years, my journey has been recognised in ways I never imagined. I’ve had the honour of appearing in newspapers and podcasts, a Channel 4 documentary during the Covid 19 pandemic and even BBC Panorama, sharing insights into the realities of funeral service and the emotional toll of youth violence on families and communities. Today, I am proud to serve as the President of the London Association of Funeral Directors (LAFD), the oldest funeral association in the

G.M. Valentine isn’t just another funeral home - it’s the culmination of everything I’ve learned over two decades in this profession. Located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, we’ve built a space where families can feel supported, heard, and guided through one of the hardest moments of their lives.

I am proud to run this business alongside my beloved wife, Kirsty, who shares my passion for providing exceptional care. Together, we have built a funeral home that prioritises compassion, professionalism, and personal service.

Families in Tunbridge Wells are warmly welcomed and supported by our front-ofhouse funeral arranger, the one and only Victoria Paine. Vicky is a fantastic and caring person who has lived in Tunbridge Wells for the majority of her life. With strong local roots and a deep understanding of the community, she ensures that every family receives the care and guidance they need in their time of loss.

Our approach is simple: we put people first. Every family is unique, and every funeral should reflect that. Whether it’s a traditional church service, a woodland burial, or a completely bespoke farewell,

People often ask how I cope with being surrounded by death every day. The truth is, funeral service isn’t about death—it’s about life. It’s about honouring stories, celebrating legacies, and ensuring that every goodbye is as meaningful as the life it represents.

Over the years, I’ve arranged funerals for the elderly, the young, the famous, and the forgotten. I’ve sat with grieving parents, helped families navigate the unthinkable, and held the hands of those who had no one else. Every funeral is a reminder of the preciousness of life, the strength of human connection, and the importance of what we do.

Bringing G.M. Valentine Ltd. to Tunbridge Wells is more than just an expansion—it’s the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. A dream that started when I was a child watching Don’t Drop the Coffin, knowing in my heart that I was born to be an undertaker.

If you ever find yourself in need of advice, guidance, or simply a conversation about how we can help, our doors are always open. Because at G.M. Valentine, you’re not just a client—you’re family.

G.M. Valentine Ltd

52-54 St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells www.gmvalentine.com 01892 356570

How to ensure people listen when you speak in public

Qaya Laycy Qorons, is a public speaker and VP of Education at Toastmasters Tunbridge Wells Speakers Club. She is also an author and member of the RTW Media Group. Here she reveals her advice on how to hold the room when you address it…

Fear of public speaking or ‘glassophobia’ ranks higher than the fear of death, heights, and even spiders. An astonishing 75% of people experience anxiety when speaking in front of an audience. Luckily becoming a confident speaker is a learnt skill and if you are willing to put the effort in, you too can command the stage. Here are some key strategies to help you become a powerful and effective speaker:

1) Managing Nerves

Most people never lose all their nervousness, but you can learn to overcome it with practice and time. Most of us put off doing things that we dread, but the sooner you start working on your speech, the better. Preparing and practicing will help make you less nervous and more confident. Focussing on your breath, practising breathing exercises and using visualisation can also help to calm your nerves and increase your confidence.

2) Preparing Your Speech

Behind every successful speaker and speech is careful preparation of a well structured message, compelling delivery and a deep connection with your audience.

• Speech structure:

Have a clear beginning, middle and end. Define your objective - are you informing, persuading, or inspiring? Consider your audience’s perspective and what’s in it for them. Keep this point in mind whilst developing your speech. Make the opening strong and the ending memorable.

• Grab attention:

Within the first minute, let the audience know who you are and capture their attention by explaining why your message matters. To hook them, ask a question; use an anecdote, a quip or a self-effacing story.

• Humour: If appropriate for the setting and audience, add humour to make your message more engaging, relatable and memorable.

• Don’t save the best for last: Leading with your best/strongest points can be more effective than leaving

“73% of business professionals suffer from public speaking anxiety but practising will really help

them for last. It can unexpectedly pave the way for a conclusion that is even more powerful than you anticipated.

• Storytelling:

Draw from real experiences to make your message authentic and create an emotional connection with the audience.

• Rhetorical devices:

Use repetition or the “power of three” to clarify and emphasize your message. One of the best examples of the power of three is a quote by Julius Caesar: “Veni, Vidi, Vici” (I came, I saw, I conquered.) It’s concise, rhythmic and impactful, making it easy to remember.

• Pause:

Give your audience time to absorb your words by slowing down and pausing. A well-placed pause adds impact, enhances clarity, and allows your message to resonate. Pausing also helps eliminate filler words like "um" and "er," making your speech more polished. While it may feel unnatural at first, with practice it can become a powerful tool.

• Vocal variety:

Use changes in tone, pitch, volume, and pace to help convey emotions and

emphasize key points. Craft a speech with intensities, highs and lows and end on a high.

• Activity tool:

Because people remember 80% of what they see and do as opposed to what they just hear, include an activity such as posing a question and asking for a show of hands or have the audience turn to the person next to them to briefly discuss a question related to the speech.

• Finish with a memorable ending: When you come to the end, think about how you want your speech to be remembered. Perhaps you want to inspire listeners to do something, a call to action or maybe you want to pick up the threads of the opening to reinforce your message.

3) Memorise It

Once you have decided what you want to say and crafted a strong speech, focus on what is often the most difficult aspect - memorising the speech. Speaking from memory allows you to maintain steady eye contact with your audience, keeping them engaged, rather than looking up or down while trying to recall your next point. Practicing your speech first thing in the morning and before going to bed is an effective technique to embed your speech. The more you practice, the more you remember, the better you become. Finally becoming an impactful public speaker takes practice, practice and practice. Take every opportunity to deliver speeches and enjoy the process each time to send a signal to your brain to reframe the experience as a rewarding challenge, reducing fear and boosting your overall confidence. If you are short on opportunities, then join the Toastmasters Speakers Club in Tunbridge Wells as an avenue for regular practice. Email the club at hello@tunbridge-wells-speakers.org to learn about the club and visit tunbridge-wells-speakers.org

For more information on Royal Tunbridge Wells Media Group visit: www.RTWMG.com

RETAIL CRIME ARTICLE

The true extent of an alarming number of cases in retail theft and violence has been laid bare by research from NFU Mutual showing that nearly three-quarters of retailers surveyed had suffered from crime over a 12 month period. Among the 74% of retailers reporting as having suffered from crime between March 2023 and March 2024, the average financial cost was almost £60,000 per year.

At NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell Agency we support retail businesses of all sizes. We work in partnership to help them safeguard property and stock, ensure staff safety, and combat specialist threats such as cybercrime. Of course, no business can ever be made entirely crime proof, but we work with our clients to help them do whatever they can to deter criminals, and then to help make sure that their insurance cover is structured to support them as well as possible and keep businesses running smoothly should the worst happen.

To support our retail customers, NFU Mutual Risk Management Services Limited provide the following advice to protect against shoplifting:

1. Use customer service as a tool to deter thieves – greeting them lets them know they have been acknowledged and may deter them as they have been identified.

2. Make sure store layouts are organised and tidy, placing high-value or items which are more desirable for thieves in monitorable areas. Consider adding mirrors to the store to reduce blind spots.

3. If possible, limit the number of high value items on display and secure remaining stock within a robust, lockable area.

4. Train staff to recognise shoplifting tactics and ensure they know how to keep themselves safe from the risk of violence.

5. Consider displaying signage in-store notifying thieves that they will be prosecuted.

6. Try to minimise cash takings and use counter caches to deposit cash during opening hours. Install a good quality compliant safe which is fixed in place and preferably kept in an alarm protected area.

To find out more about NFU Mutual’s services, visit www.nfumutual.co.uk/insurance-for-retailers.

If you would like to discuss your current or future insurance requirements, please contact NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell Agency on 01892 599151 or email Tunbridge_Wells@nfumutual.co.uk

Why devolution opens up opportunities

The Government’s plan to transfer power from Whitehall to the Town hall opens up exciting opportunities for both Tunbridge Wells and West Kent. Ben Chapelard, Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council gives us his view on what the future could look like…

The Government is determined that powers will be devolved from Westminster to directly elected mayors. Their role will be to promote economic growth and regeneration, as well as other Government priorities, such as housebuilding, tackling climate change, skills and employment and transport and infrastructure.

Making decisions on these priorities locally in Kent rather than in London should open the way for better and more direct problem solving for the area we live in. As the leader of a borough council, one of the frustrations in my role is not having the necessary powers because they belong to the County Council or the Government. Decision-making is slowed down; opportunities are missed, and local government can’t unleash the power for good that I believe it is.

I see working with an elected mayor as a golden opportunity to do great things for where we live, our residents and our businesses. Therefore, I am disappointed that Kent has not been accepted on to the Government’s Devolution Priority Programme. The news is not in the best interests of the borough or the county’s residents.

Alongside devolution the Government wants to change the number and structure of local councils, their powers and the areas their serve. In a two-tier local government area like Kent, with a county council and borough councils, the Government wants to merge both layers

“The Government needs to be bolder such as giving regions the opportunities for fiscal devolution to stimulate local growth

of local government into a single tier, a unitary authority, delivering the services the current county and borough council deliver separately.

Although devolution is not coming to Kent just yet the 14 councils in Kent (12 borough councils, Kent County Council and Medway Council) have been asked by the Government to make proposals for merging into these new unitary authorities. The current thinking is to re-organise into three or four, with one covering West Kent. I concluded a few years ago that having one council

delivering all services would be better. The opportunities for more impactful local government are exciting. We could really get more done if one council could just get on with things!

My enthusiasm for what could be transformational is dampened by the Government’s proposed lack of financial support in terms of addressing the £1.5bn debt local councils carry. There is no point in setting up new unitary authorities if they are going to struggle financially from their inheritance at the same as facing new, increasing costs such as the challenges of an ageing population.

Cost saving must never be the end goal in local government re-organisation. For me it is all about unleashing the force for good which I believe is local government. We must be given the tools to build vibrant and interconnected communities where our residents can live healthy and fulfilling lives, where our business can thrive and grow. While I applaud the Government’s ambitions and what it could do for us, the Government needs to be bolder such as giving regions the opportunities for fiscal devolution to stimulate local growth.

All 14 councils in Kent need to submit interim proposals by the end of March and final submission by the end of November.

You can find out more about the interim proposal by searching local government reorganisation at Tunbridgewells.gov.uk and we will be coming to you to hear you views in due course. Watch this space!

“We want to increase sales without compromise”

James Easter is Managing Director and co-owner of Everett Tiles based in East Sussex. He and his brother Rafe acquired the company in 2024 and have ambitious plans to develop the business, without compromising on its 68 year history. Here James tells us how he aims to do this…

James, can you tell us a little about your background and career to date?

After leaving college I joined my father’s small building development company learning the various trades and running the sites. As site and contracts manager my role became more autonomous as time went by. I reinforced this with further, relevant education which ultimately lead to membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). I also held similar roles with other construction companies including main contractors working for organisations such as Brighton and Hove City Council delivering city centre social housing.

What appealed to you and your brother about Everett Tiles when looking for an relevant acquisition?

My brother and I had often discussed working together. Eventually he was in a position to invest and I was looking for a career change having been on site for thirty nine years! Everett Tiles became available as a going concern and has proved to fit the bill. It’s a small, old school family business which was established in 1957. The owner wanted to retire and we could see a good deal of scope for improvement and expansion. The previous owner is still part of the team which is a great help as having his knowledge and experience is invaluable.

What are your initial plans to develop the business?

Apart from learning the business myself, we’ve just gone through a slight rebrand, keeping the established name and colours but giving the overall brand a makeover. We have launched a new website including e-commerce with a view to market and deliver tiles to a much wider area. We now have a few customers across Europe. We’ve also implemented a new CRM system allowing us to manage and understand our customers’ needs better. On top of that we plan to refurbish the slightly dated showroom area and introduce new ranges including more out of the ordinary and bespoke products.

What do you see as the biggest trends and challenges in the tile industry today?

Customers seem to now favour more bold colours. Greens, blues and reds are popular both in the medium sizes tiles as well as the smaller formats. Larger tiles are popular in the various marble styles and porcelain paving for external surfaces such as patios is very popular too. Interestingly we are also seeing a slight move away from greys and back to the warmer beiges, sands and off white tiles.

How do you ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty in a competitive industry?

As an independent distributor we put a huge emphasis on customer satisfaction.

As an independent distributor we put a huge emphasis on customer satisfaction. We are friendly and sincere, helpful and knowledgeable, we have over 65 years of tile knowledge on our team. We offer free local delivery, no hassle returns and base our interactions with our customers on goodwill and trust. We also have loyal following with local craftsmen offering flexible terms to help with their cash flow as well as putting them in touch with our retail customers who are looking for reliable, skilled tilers.

How do you see the role of recycled or ecofriendly materials in the future of the tile industry?

What are your key business goals for 2025?

Initially I want to prove we can run the business as successfully as the previous owner as well as increase the volume of sales without compromising the excellent customer service and focus we have inherited. We also want to develop our product range and grow our customer base across Europe.

This is an important and growing area as with all walks of life. Tile manufacturers as well as associated products such as adhesive and grout are all striving to improve their environmental impact. For example our main supplier of these products is now supplying fully CO2 offset products. Policy and people’s desire for a greener future are driving this ahead and we encourage less packaging, especially plastics as well as recycling as much as we can ourselves.

www.everetttiles.co.uk

The tide is high

Tim Price is Head of CRM and Analytics at Tunbridge Wells software developer and tech company, Crimson Tide. When he’s not looking after clients, you’ll find Tim playing water polo for RTW Monson Seniors or training the junior team…

Tim, water polo isn’t your everyday pastime is it?

It is to me! I’ve been playing water polo since I was 12 and now either play or coach on most days. But you’re right - a recent National Watersports Survey showed that 27% of the UK population played water sports in 2022, (about 18 million people) but only 150,00 of those play water polo.

How did you get involved in water polo and why?

I’ve been a member of Monson Swimming club since I was very young. They did various water sports, including water polo, and I wanted to try it. So, on my 12th birthday, that’s what I did and I’ve never looked back. You definitely need to be a keen swimmer to play water polo, and confident in the water, but it’s a great team sport and you have to constantly work together.

“Both my job and water polo require team work and they allow me to get to know a great mix of people

Do you play competitively?

I play for Monson Seniors and we’re in the Kent League and Kent and Sussex friendly league. I also coach Monson Juniors. The usual route into competitive water polo is to play at club level. Then when county competitions come up, coaches come scouting for the best players. Inter county competitions involve a lot of travelling, especially up north, though we tend to play against teams from Sevenoaks, Hastings, Crawley, Faversham and Brighton

POINT OF DIFFERENCE: Tim Price's tech job as Head of CRM and Analytics at Crimson Tide is in direct contrast to his hobby as a water polo coach

Why is water polo not played more in the UK?

There are so many other choices of sport. We’re lucky because of the close links to the RTW Monson Swimming Club and pool, which is a perfect feeder. Also, many sports clubs closed after Covid, losing funding and coaches. But we managed to keep going and actually saw an upturn in interest in water polo. I think people were ready to try something new.

Onto your day job. Crimson Tide might have a watery name but there’s no connection…

Definitely not! Crimson Tide is a Software-as-a-Service (Saas) business. We specialise in mobility solutions and related software development. We’ve developed the mpro5 platform, a Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) software that streamlines various tasks such as job scheduling, alerting and reporting. We work with many different sectors, including construction, facilities management, finance, insurance and healthcare.

How long have you been with Crimson Tide?

Only nine years less than I’ve been playing water polo! I started straight from university, lured by a job ad from a local IT start up. Back then, there were three or four of us in a converted garage. The others had worked for various IT companies in London and so had some

good business connections. They tapped into these and started picking up leads. Overtime, we developed software packages and CRMs for people. As companies onboarded more clients, so they wanted more bespoke CRMs to capture more data and find ways of using it. So we designed the mpro5 platform (mobile professional 5), a mobile service before mobile services really existed.

How does mpro5 work?

It’s a highly adaptable platform that replaced all paper-based reporting, support and analytics for mobile workforces – transport systems, NHS Trusts, supermarkets – any business whose people move around and need to report data, from stock control to safety data.

Your life at Crimson Tide and water polo sound very different! They are, but both require team work and I get to know a great mix of people, from in-house techies to site managers, kids playing water polo and owners of big corporations. There’s never a dull moment in either!

Find out more about Crimson Tide at crimsontide.co.uk and Monson Water Polo at www.rtwmonson.org

Together BID

to launch a digital town hub and bespoke local app for Royal Tunbridge Wells!

“I would love

Tunbridge Wells

to be a beacon of

accessibility”

For this month’s Community Heroes feature, Sarah Raine talks to Lisa Beaumont, stroke survivor, marketing consultant and founder of Different Strokes West Kent Peer Support Group

Lisa, for those people who don’t know you, tell us a little bit about you… I have lived in Tunbridge Wells for over 20 years and am married to Russell and have two grown up daughters. Before my two strokes in 2011, I worked in advertising effectiveness research for IPC Publishing and Taylor Nelson Kantar in London, before moving to work locally as Marketing Manager for Trinity Theatre.

In 2011, you suffered a life-threatening brain haemorrhage and secondary stroke. Can you tell us about this?

I was working on panto season at Trinity Theatre when it happened, in January 2011. It had been a hectic week at work and I woke on the Saturday morning feeling unwell. Later, my husband found me passed out in bed, the ambulance crew took me to our local hospital and latterly to Kings Hospital. I was classed as GCS3 on the Glasgow Coma Scale, had to have a titanium plate inserted into my skull to resolve the swelling caused by encephalitis, and was in an induced coma for three weeks.

And what has the journey to recovery been like since then?

I’ve been in rehabilitation for 14 years and I know that I am incredibly lucky to be alive. My family had been told multiple times to come and say goodbye to me, but I pushed through. It has been a slow road to recovery, and I still have a way to go, but I am a long way on from those early days where I had to be hoisted all the time and peg fed as I had lost my ability to swallow, to walk, to sit. During my year in in-patient care, I learned that

stroke was approached as a condition for the elderly. There was minimal adaptation for someone who had had a cerebral stroke aged 43. It would be different now because there’s widespread recognition that a quarter of strokes affect people younger than 65.

Since being back in your own community how have things been?

Post-discharge things can be difficult. I have been fortunate to have a supportive family, a good recovery needs support, commitment and a positive mindset. For me, my Catholic faith has been an important factor.

Tell us a bit about why you founded Different Strokes West Kent?

Different Strokes is a national charity that supports stroke survivors, with a wealth of advice and information for working age people and an active Facebook group which I found really helpful. When I was strong enough to leave home in 2014, I met a fellow stroke survivor and local resident, David Thorpe. I founded the West Kent arm of the charity because I wanted the opportunity to have more contact with local stroke survivors. We have a weekly neuro physio class in Southborough Civic Centre, a monthly group meeting with a guest speaker, a monthly ‘conversation café’ for aphasic* patients and their carer to meet with others who are finding communications difficult.

What are your views on how well we do accessibility in Tunbridge Wells? Truthfully? Accessibility in our town is patchy, probably best described as

‘businesses are willing, the infrastructure is weak’. Venues like Trinity Theatre and the Assembly Hall Theatre are good examples of best practice, and there are some restaurants that really get it like TN1 Bar & Kitchen, but generally the town isn’t great.

You recently created an accessibility accreditation for local businesses, what do they need to do?

Through my volunteer work with the Tunbridge Wells Access Group, and with financial support from RTW Together BID, we have created a free accessibility report which any business can use to advise them how they can be more accessible. Often it can be simple, cheap solutions like providing documents in larger print, having a ramp available to use for step access or a hearing loop which transmits sound directly to a hearing aid.

With RTW Together BID, we have created a free accessibility report which any business can use to advise them how they can be more accessible “

Is there anything else that can be done?

I am really keen to work with hospitality and retailers to share our learned experiences, and give them the opportunity to increase their turnover from the purple economy (1/4 of people in the UK have a disability of some kind, with limited mobility the most frequently reported impairment). I would love Tunbridge Wells to work towards being a beacon of accessibility, to show other towns how it can be done.

To self-refer or find out more about Different Strokes West Kent email westkent@differentstrokes.co.uk, to find out more about the Accessibility guide and accreditation, please email anne. musker@gmail.com

GROUP EFFORT: Lisa Beaumont (centre) with the TW Access Group at the Access Guide Launch

Lisa in 2011, before her stroke

Safety in Numbers –Don’t Believe the Hype

Have you ever had an idea, a bold ambition, or a vision for something greater, only to be met with an inner voice whispering doubts? Who do you think you are? You’re not good enough. You’ll fail. Nobody will pay for that. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

This is your subconscious mind doing exactly what it was designed to doprotect you. The human brain evolved for survival, not success. For centuries, safety meant fitting in, following the crowd, and avoiding risk at all costs. Standing out or trying something new could have meant exile, starvation, or worse. While modern life has changed, our subconscious hasn’t caught up. It still perceives change as danger and will do everything it can to pull us back to familiar ground.

The problem? Safety in numbers doesn’t apply when you’re building a business, pursuing a passion, or striving for personal growth. In fact, blending in is the fastest way to get lost in a sea of mediocrity. The very thing that once kept us safe - sticking with the group - now keeps us stuck.

“Your subconscious will always seek safety, but success demands risk. Not reckless risk, but the kind of bold, strategic action that pushes you beyond what feels comfortable

Rewriting the Narrative Entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership require us to step outside our comfort zone. But when we do, our subconscious kicks into overdrive, filling our heads with self-doubt, comparison, and imposter syndrome. This internal resistance isn’t a sign that you’re on the wrong path; it’s proof that you’re growing. So how do we override this outdated programming?

1. RECOGNISE THE VOICE FOR WHAT IT IS: That critical voice in your head isn’t the truth - it’s just an automatic response designed to keep you where you are. Acknowledge it, and move on with your goals.

2. REFRAME FEAR AS PROGRESS: Instead of seeing fear as a stop sign, see it as a signal that you’re moving towards something meaningful. If it feels uncomfortable, you’re probably on the right track.

3. CHALLENGE THE NARRATIVE: When your mind says, I’m not good enough, ask yourself for evidence, and reframe it: I’m learning, I’m growing, and I’m getting better every day. Your brain listens to the words you tell it, so choose them wisely.

4. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH INSPIRERS: Find people who have done what you want to do. Their success is proof that it’s possible, and their energy will challenge your subconscious to raise the bar.

into manageable steps and let momentum build.

Success Isn’t Safe

Your subconscious will always seek safety, but success demands risk. Not reckless risk, but the kind of bold, strategic action that pushes you beyond what feels comfortable. The greatest entrepreneurs and creatives weren’t immune to doubt; they simply refused to let it control them.

5. TAKE SMALL, CONSISTENT STEPS: The brain resists massive change, but it adapts well to small, repeated and consistent actions. Instead of overwhelming yourself, break goals TH

So, the next time fear tries to convince you to shrink back, that's your signal to go all out. Remember: safety in numbers might keep you hidden, but standing out is where growth and true success begins.

DeeAirey

“Dentistry should be nonnegotiable”

dentalbox is a multidisciplinary practice with a team of specialists, general dentists and therapists who collaborate to ensure patients receive the best bespoke level of care. Eileen Leahy meets its founder Jodie Claridge to find out what makes this clinic cutting edge…

There are dentists and then, there’s the dentalbox – a state of the art dentistry clinic that opened in 2022 and is located on London Road in Southborough.

From the very start, its owner, visionary and qualified clinician, Jodie Claridge wanted to do things differently – from the practice’s chic, covetable décor, to investing in the best technology available for the practice, and of course ensuring the service it provides is completely bespoke, transparent and inclusive.

“I guess you could say we are aiming to disrupt the dental industry,” says Jodie when we meet.

“I have hand-picked an incredible team to work with me who are all on board with my messaging. For too long dentists have had a bad reputation with lots of people seeing them as trying to sell their patients things they might not necessarily need. But here we take a very different approach,” explains Jodie.

By that she means that from the outset, the patient’s journey at the dentalbox is one where they are involved right from the start.

“We have what we call New Patient Registrations. Every patient who enrols with us undergoes one of these. They last an hour and are very thorough. We take X-rays and 3D digital scans so patients see

Our New Patient Registrations are very thorough. We take X-rays and 3D digital scans so patients can literally see what their teeth look like. We follow this up on email with an oral health report “

what we see.

“If treatment is recommended then the next step is assigning the right clinician for each treatment and for each patient’s individual needs. Each clinician here has picked their area of preferred specialism so new people who join us become a patient of the practice - and not of a specific dentist.”

That, says Jodie, is a game changer.

“By doing this the dentist is happy as they are only doing treatments they really enjoy and as a result the patients then get the very best out of them. It’s a very bespoke approach.”

Before interviewing Jodie, she very kindly invited me to experience the New Patient Registration, courtesy of her trusted dental therapist Jenna Buttle who is also the practice’s Head of Clinical Operations.

She carried out a comprehensive assessment of my teeth, gums, mouth, bite and jaw joints; taking X-rays, clinical photos and digital scans. The assessment also considered my dental history, current concerns and my desired outcomes.

Jenna was looking for - amongst other things - signs of decay, tooth surface loss, gum recession, enamel erosion, as well as signs of oral cancer. The pictures I received via email the next day in an oral health report were incredibly detailed and Jenna’s subsequent findings were very clear and concise. All this is a long way from days of old sitting in a dentist’s chair and listening them call out to their assistant a baffling variety of numbers and coded lingo!

“With all the high tech we have invested in and our holistic approach to the new patient registration patients are no longer

in the dark about the health of their mouth and are far more informed and involved,” continues Jodie.

I tell her that the consultation felt like having an MOT for my teeth.

“Well we have deliberately designed it like this! The MOT is designed to give patients a clear insight into their current and future health. We can put a watch on certain issues if they are there and then it is up to the patient if they want to proceed with the suggested treatment. In no way are we trying to sell people something they don’t need. Our New Patient Registration is about fact finding and fact sharing.

“It’s an amazing baseline to start with. If there are no major issues or risk factors then we will see you again in a year’s time but having said that we will always

the clinician’s time and expertise – a very fair price. We are always aiming high.”

The practice already has around two thousand people on its books – but it is always looking for more as there is capacity to expand even further.

This is good news, especially at a time when one of the town’s oldest dental practices Hill House has announced it will be closing.

“We would love to invite those patients who now have to look for a new practice to come and see us. We have the space, the infrastructure and clinicians to absorb them. I don’t think many people realise that your dentist is your choice. If you are reading this please do get in touch.

Apart from offering a very tailored experience for every patient, what other specialisms does the dentalbox offer?

recommend a dental hygiene follow-up appointment. And if you need additional treatment after your first visit then we will have a conversation about your potential options.

“We will provide you with a treatment plan, consent forms, costings, and payment options. People trust us because we approach their oral health in this way.

“All the clinicians we have here really believe that if we give people all the tools we can then we’ll get them to their optimum oral health. We really do want to save people’s teeth! I honestly believe the patient education we provide makes all the difference.”

The New Patient Registrations cost £95 and Jodie says this is pretty good value for money.

“Considering other dentists will charge you around £65 plus for a half an hour consultation and won’t offer the digital imagery makes our fee of £95 for an hour’s appointment with all the scans, X-rays, digital captures – not to mention

“Between our eleven staff we can offer everything from orthodontics, cosmetic and implant surgery to complex oral procedures and minimally invasive work,” reveals Jodie.

She then tells me there is also a third treatment room ready to go if necessary and this is where she would love to create an emergency paediatric treatment space.

“That would be my dream because at the moment we don’t have one here.

The nearest ones are in Richmond and East Grinstead and the latter tends to be

We would love to invite those patients who now have to look for a new practice to come and see us. We have the space, the infrastructure and clinicians to absorb them

referral only.”

Patients aren’t just local either. In fact they come from places like Brighton, Haywards Heath, Folkestone, Sevenoaks, Hadlow, Battle and Hastings.

“I honestly think people will travel if there is added value and I think the biggest message is that dentistry should be seen as self-care.

“There are many people who will have non-negotiables. This could be their hair, their nails, their gym or golf membership. I don’t know how we get the message across that dentistry should also be a non-negotiable. If you consider it like that, especially when you are younger, you are never going to need costly and painful procedures carried out. It can be completely avoided if you see it as a nonnegotiable and your general wellness.”

www.thedentalbox.co.uk

01892 254879

info@thedentalbox.co.uk

Why boarding schools offer many benefits

Headmistress at Benenden, Rachel Bailey, discusses the positives of choosing a boarding school

When did you last visit a boarding school?

Everyone has a view on boarding schools – even though most people have probably never set foot in one.

Like it or not – and I am definitely in the latter camp! – the outdated stereotype persists that boarding schools are places with cold dormitories, near-inedible food and fierce matrons from which children relish in trying to escape.

Such narratives may make for quaint TV dramas but this perception – if it was ever even accurate at all – is worlds away from the reality of modern boarding schools, which are seeing enormous amount of interest.

Step into a boarding school today and anyone expecting those stereotypes will be surprised to be greeted by warm, contemporary dormitories and stylish study spaces in the boarding houses; to sample the diverse and delicious menu; or to take in the outstanding sport, performing arts and science facilities.

Anyone who sympathises with that sneering view that parents of boarders are ‘sending away’ their children as if it’s some kind of punishment, you will be pleasantly surprised by the enormous amount of involvement from families in boarding school communities: whether it’s the sheer number of parents and family members cheering on their children at sports fixtures, joining them for a hearty brunch on a Sunday, attending numerous school plays, regular social events at school or a myriad of other activities. Boarding communities are warm and inviting, where purposeful students and staff enliven the site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Boarding schools bring practical family benefits for busy, working parents: A modern boarding education is one where a student won’t be late home in the evening if they decide to try a new

sport or pick up a new instrument after their lessons, one where the support they need is waiting for them when they get home at the end of the day, and where the opportunity to learn things about the world and about themselves is in no way confined to the classroom.

It is one where students benefit from an abundance of time – time to devote to their studies, to experience new things,

Far from fragmenting family life, parents tell us that boarding enhances family bonds because school is shouldering so much of the daily strain “

and to learn to live with others by sharing spaces with their best friends, friends that any Benenden alumnae will tell you they keep for a lifetime.

Far from fragmenting family life, parents tell us that boarding enhances family bonds because school is shouldering so much of the daily strain of those challenging teenage years by imposing discipline and boundaries, making family time much more meaningful and enjoyable. And the school and parents are very much working in partnership to ensure the very best for their child: with

constant contact an essential aspect of the partnership between families and the organisations they trust to care for their children.

Put plainly, boarding today is stronger than ever and remains immensely popular. At Benenden we are seeing record interest in our boarding provision, while across the sector more than 65,000 students are boarding in the UK – a total that has been broadly consistent for the past 25 years. And that interest isn’t driven solely by the parents. When children visit our school and see confident, well-mannered, globallyminded young women, enthusiastically grasping the opportunities available to them and without any sense that they don’t deserve a seat at the table – they know this is the kind of school they want to join. For so many, boarding school is absolutely a choice, and an easy one at that.

If your idea of boarding school is bound up in the iconography of Victorian novels, we would very much welcome you to come and have a look at the contemporary reality for yourself.

Inspiring students to expand their professional horizons…

Benenden student Delilah Salisbury explains what the school’s Six One Enterprise Challenge is and how it is a great introduction into the world of business entrepreneurism…

The professional skills programme at Benenden School has been running the Six One Enterprise Challenge for just under 10 years, allowing students in year 12 to learn the different stages and skills needed to start a business.

The year is divided into groups, and each group must come up with an idea for a product or service to sell to their target audience. They’re given a startup fund of £150 to spend on their business which they must be able to pay back at the end of the challenge.

in learning to work with people they wouldn’t necessarily get on well with, allowing them to overcome the barriers presented in those situations and collaborate with each other. And developing those skills is important when employers are often looking for people with that experience on top of their academic achievements, making them stand out as a potential employee in future careers.

As a boarding school, there is more time at Benenden for the enterprise challenge to be a timetabled part of each student’s work weeks, allowing it to be executed

“

The challenge gives students the opportunity to branch out of their comfort zone and gives them a break from their academic studies to create innovative and original business ideas

Over the course of the first term, various speakers from within the school community and outside of it give talks about different aspects of running a business such as marketing, finance, sustainability, and branding to equip the students with the fundamental knowledge to start their business.

The challenge culminates in a Dragons’ Den style final in which the groups who reach that stage are required to present their ideas to a panel of judges who will decide the winner based on the previously mentioned business aspects as well as the profitability of the product or service and the skills such as teamwork, communication, and time management developed over the course of the challenge.

It allows the students to gain these important skills they’ll use later in life at university and in the wider world, experiencing starting a business for the first time and giving them an insight into the world of work.

In previous years, students have taken their businesses further and continued

with them outside of the challenge and later franchised out.

One of the winning groups from a few years ago, Bottoms Up (previously Benenden Bottoms), carried on selling their trackies with the word Benenden on the bottom at school after the challenge finished. They later franchised out to other schools and eventually when the students went to university, branched out to university sports clubs, now running the business alongside their studies and jobs.

Another successful group provided a car washing service to the staff at lunch and break times and while they did not win the challenge they made a large profit.

The challenge gives students the opportunity to branch out of their comfort zone and gives them a break from their academic studies to create innovative and original business ideas which will later help them immensely in their future careers and may even inspire a few students to take the path of becoming an entrepreneur.

The skills they learn through the challenge gives them valuable experience

on a larger scale. For other schools who might be considering implementing something similar to this but don’t have the same allowance of time, beginning the challenge on a smaller scale, for example, as a virtual experience where the students are only starting a theoretical business, may be a good initial step. Or they could start the challenge as an extra-curricular option, where students choose to take part. If the challenge proves to be a success, schools could then choose to make it a timetabled activity that students in year 12 must take part in and possibly scale it up a bit in giving them a small startup fund.

The Six One Enterprise Challenge coordinator, Sarah Leighton told me that she sees it as a fantastic opportunity for students to take time out of their academic endeavours to use their own initiative to create a product they can be proud of. It is also a perfect way to expand their professional horizons through learning the key skills needed in the working world and encourages other schools to put something similar in place for their students.

Accounting & Finance Recruitment –

Simple, Efficient & Cost-Effective

Finding the right finance and accounting talent is critical to business success. Whether you're an SME, a large corporation, or an accountancy practice, securing skilled professionals quickly and efficiently is key. That’s where we come in

Smart, Targeted Hiring

Our specialist recruitment service connects businesses with top-tier finance professionals on a permanent, temporary, or fixed-term contract basis. We work discreetly, proactively, and personally interview every candidate to ensure they have the right skills and cultural fit.

Why Choose Us?

• Time-Saving: We handle sourcing, screening, and interview coordination—so you can focus on your business.

• Cost-Effective: Reduce costly hiring mistakes. We deliver the right fit the first time.

• Speed & Efficiency: Urgent temporary cover? Key permanent hire? We move fast to meet your needs.

• Zero Upfront Costs: You only pay when a candidate starts.

• Exclusive Talent Pool: Gain access to high-calibre candidates not actively job-hunting.

• 12-Week Guarantee: Added security for your investment.

More Than Just Recruitment

We offer market insights, salary benchmarking, and long-term hiring strategies to help you attract and retain top talent.

Let’s Find Your Next Finance Professional

Looking to hire without the hassle? Let’s talk. Whether it’s an urgent role or future planning, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today!

A self-employed growth opportunity for commercial leaders

Moving to a self-employed role is always a big decision. If you’re ready for an inspiring, challenging yet rewarding role, becoming an Agent in the NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells multi-site agency could be the opportunity you’re looking for.

• Estimated 1st year OTE of up to £95k with genuine prospects for growth

• Self-employed leadership opportunity in a thriving insurance business

• Join a muti-site agency with no capital investment required

• Grow an established portfolio that includes high net worth and commercial clients

• Create bespoke insurance solutions with the support of NFU Mutual.

From 2015 to 2024 this agency saw 100% growth. With over 300 NFU members and untapped potential in West Kent and East Sussex, it now has some of the largest growth potential across the NFU Mutual Agency Network. Future clients include farming, high net worth, commercial and large clients with complex needs.

Joining two experienced partners and a 23-strong team, you’ll find an agency culture where supporting growth through great sales is a given.

NFU Group Secretary

The National Farmers Union (NFU) represents the voice of agriculture on national and international platforms. Combining your duties as NFU Group Secretary with your Agent role helps you make the most of new business opportunities, as well as introducing what the NFU and NFU Mutual can offer to a wider audience.

Rewards and support

Unlike most self-employed ventures our model requires zero upfront capital investment.

In addition, you’ll benefit from: Uncapped earnings growth built into the agency financial structure

A ready-made and loyal customer base with a renewal rate of 95% Access to NFU Mutual support services including sales, marketing and financial planning.

About NFU Mutual

A top 10 UK insurance provider, NFU Mutual focuses on building business relationships and putting our customers at the heart of what we do. With a 95% renewal rate, our status and respect in the agricultural world and beyond provides the foundations on which to grow your business.

Apply now

If you're interested in this opportunity, please visit the NFU Mutual Agent website for more details and to apply:

https://agent.nfumutual.co.uk/ email: Steve_Coldicott@nfumutual.co.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS PUPPETRY FESTIVAL CIC IS LOOKING FOR A CHAIR OF THE TRUSTEES

Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival CIC is a family-friendly festival of world-class puppetry and theatre. Our aim is to introduce puppetry theatre and animation to audiences, with a focus on bringing the community together through shared enjoyment of live performance.

Taking place every two years since 2015, the festival is now seeking a competent person to bring their financial interest, attention-to-detail and supportive nature to bear as a volunteer Chair to oversee the Board of Trustees with a hands-on approach to support the organisation and join our Board of Trustees. This is an exciting time to join Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival as we approach our 10th Anniversary.

It is necessary that the chosen candidate has experience in this regard or can demonstrate similar with an enthusiasm and passion for art, puppetry or live events. Join us in making the Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival an event that continues to enchant and inspire!

HOW TO APPLY: Please send an expression of interest and what you could offer and CV to twpuppetryfest@outlook.com by 28th March 2025. More details can be found on our website twpuppetryfestival.org

Futureproof your workforce

In his latest column, Neil Simmons, founder of TN Recruits looks at how businesses can ensure the right candidates are selected for the right job – and ultimately retained…

In today’s fast-moving business landscape, the strength of your workforce has never been more crucial. With markets shifting, technologies advancing, and industries facing continuous change, securing the right talent is more than just filling vacancies - it’s about future-proofing your business.

At TN Recruits, we understand that the real cost of a bad hire goes beyond salary. It’s the impact on team morale, productivity, and even client relationships. That’s why we work closely with our clients, not just to source candidates but to deliver the right people who will thrive within your company culture and drive results.

Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, several recruitment trends are shaping the hiring landscape. Skills-based hiring continues to gain momentum as companies prioritise competencies over traditional qualifications. The rise of AIdriven workflows means adaptability and tech literacy are now essential, regardless of industry. Moreover, with hybrid

“Candidates are increasingly valuing career progression and company culture.

and remote work becoming standard, assessing a candidate’s ability to thrive in flexible environments has become a critical consideration.

But it’s not just about finding talent - it’s about retention. In a competitive market, candidates are increasingly valuing career progression, company culture, and well-being initiatives. Partnering with a recruitment agency that understands these evolving expectations can be the difference between simply hiring and securing long-term, engaged employees.

At TN Recruits, we combine industry

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New beginnings...

Head of Client Management at Beau Property, Catherine Dickens, lists some of the benefits of buying a new build home…

Buying a new home has many benefits and can be an attractive option for those looking for a move-in ready home.

Our recent new build project at Beau Property is a collection of seven luxury homes in Southborough. These new builds incorporate modern elegance in every detail. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider investing in a new build if you are looking to buy…

Modern Design and Features: New builds often come with the latest design trends, modern layouts, and energyefficient appliances. They are typically built with open-plan living spaces, smart home technology, and other up-to-date features that might not be available in older properties. Our homes here at Beau Property are thoughtfully designed with future residents in mind, offering charm, elegance and comfort in every detail. From the latest smart technology solutions, mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems maintaining indoor air quality and Velux Cabrio balcony windows that transform our pitch roof windows into a balcony in an instant.

Energy Efficiency: New build homes have to comply with the latest building regulations and tend to be better insulated and include modern heating systems. This can lead to lower energy bills compared to older homes that may be less efficient. All Beau Property homes are built to the Future Homes Standard building regulation, where they are 75-80% more energy efficient than those built under current regulations. Our homes are energy efficient and are fitted with LED lighting, Mitsubishi’s latest Air Source Heat Pumps, Heatmiser thermostatically controlled

underfloor heating and super-fast EV chargers. Our homes have an EPC B rating, proving their energy efficiency.

Personalisation Options: In some cases, when buying off-plan, you can choose certain aspects of the home, like finishes, flooring, and sometimes even layouts, so you can tailor the home to suit your tastes. We can offer this option here at Beau Property if commitment is realised early enough in the construction phase.

Structural Warranties and fewer issues: New homes typically come with warranties in case something goes wrong in the early years of ownership. New builds also tend to have no issues with damp, subsidence, or other structural issues that are more likely in older homes that haven’t been well maintained. For peace of mind here at Beau Property we offer a 10-year build zone warranty.

“

Buying a new build usually means no need to wait for a property sale to complete your purchase

Up-to-date Legal and Safety Standards: New homes must comply with the latest building regulations, so they’re often safer, and built to modern standards in terms of structural integrity and fire safety. The safety of our homes is of paramount importance, and we always go above and beyond to ensure the safety of our homeowners.

New Communities and Amenities: New builds are often part of developing communities, meaning they might be near new schools, parks, shopping centres, and other amenities. At Beau Property we factor in all of the above when choosing our sites to ensure they are ideally located for our homeowners.

Chain Free: Buying a new build usually means no need to wait for a property sale to complete your purchase, making the process faster.

Long-Term Investment Potential: As new builds meet modern standards and are energy-efficient, they can hold their value better and appreciate faster. As communities develop around new builds, property prices can increase. www.whitecroftgardens.com

“Brutalism

intrigues because it requires the architect to work harder”

Talented local architect and co-founder of the Atelier de Linde practice, Tara de Linde, argues why we shouldn’t find Brutalism so brutal. In fact, it has a lot of creative charm…

For those who have not seen it, multi nominated film The Brutalist is a fictional piece about attempts by a young HungarianJewish architect, Lazlo Toth, to forge a future in the United States whilst coming to terms with the personal trauma of surviving World War II.

The title of the film alludes to a style of architecture that many find alienating. I too have mixed feelings about Brutalism but would not write off all Brutalist buildings. The term ‘Brutalist’ was coined by the British critic Reyner Banham in 1955. He used it to describe an emerging architectural style characterised by the use of raw reinforced concrete (béton brut in French), exposed structures and a focus on functionality.

Brutalism intrigues precisely because its unwieldy nature requires the architect to work harder and in so doing reveals a more subtle form of creativity

Britain in the mid-twentieth century was in recovery mode. Over three million homes had been damaged or destroyed by bombs (i.e. three times today’s housing deficit) and roughly 2.7% of the British male workforce had been killed. The pressure was on to rebuild quickly and cheaply. At the same time, a growing discontent with the Establishment was taking hold, ironically, alongside a deep-rooted patriotism, that demanded expression.

Reinforced concrete is a versatile material, strong in both compression and tension. It was cheaper and more readily available than brick and stone and of course non-combustible. But it was also grey and bland. So, what to do? How could such a dull material be used to capture the spirit of the age and express

function - let alone beauty?

Unclad, it could be argued that the exposed look of raw concrete symbolised the building’s true structure, unadorned by any additional overlay or features, rather like a metaphor for a society that was demanding greater transparency from the government.

However, for domestic use, a softer touch was required. Architects experimented with texture either imprinting other material surfaces (e.g. timber shuttering) onto the concrete or simply modifying (e.g. bevelling) the otherwise smooth surface.  Interestingly this technique harks back to those glorious C15th Florentine palazzi where surface treatment of the stone dictated a certain hierarchy in the elevation: rustication at the base to denote a fortress like protection from the Tybalt’s of the world and a smoother ashlar finish to the upper floors frequented by Medici nobility.

The other Brutalist trait was to experiment with formwork and reinforced concrete casting. Concrete, a bit like Play-Doh, can be moulded into shaped containers and then rolled out on a mass scale. Think of the beautifully crafted and cleverly lit coffered ceiling within the Barbican Centre or the lattice façade of the Welbeck Car Park just north of Oxford Street earmarked for demolition as the ground it sits on has long outvalued the structure itself.

Detailing is tricky, which makes it all the more delightful when one stumbles upon a ‘moment’ such as a scalloped recess to frame a circular fire extinguisher, curved timber trims to inverted arched windows or elegant utilitarian bronze door handles. In short, Brutalism intrigues precisely because its unwieldy nature requires

the architect to work harder and in so doing reveals a more subtle form of creativity. When we look back now at such landmarks as the Hayward Gallery or the Economist Plaza they speak of selfreflection, triumph over adversity and a willingness to experiment and innovate. I’m not convinced the same could be said of Stockbroker Tudor!

Today there is no dearth of land or labour. The urgency is affordable housing and the need to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG).

The phrase ‘Form follows Energy’ must now replace the Modernist slogan ‘Form follows Function’. In terms of GHG, concrete was once the pariah of materials but an exciting new range of low-carbon products such as Purlite, Geopolymer Concrete and BioConcrete is now available. Preservation is also key. Kent and East Sussex are fortunate in having so many industrial reinforced concrete barns ripe for conversion.

So yes, despite the controversy surrounding Brutalism, I doff my cap to the Laszlo’s of this world.

Atelier de Linde Ltd 78 St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9PH

Website: www.atelierdelinde.co.uk

Email: tara@atelierdelinde.com

Tel: 07973 628 095

“But what about the children?”

In her column this month, Deborah Richards of Maddisons

Residential explores the impact moving house can have on the younger members of a family

Tunbridge Wells has always been a popular destination for the family buyer. Living in a town so rich with excellent schooling, fabulous amenities, and plentiful green parks, is an obvious attraction for anyone with children. However, although moving house might be logical and exciting for an adult, the fear of the unknown can be upsetting for children. That room or corner of the garden that has been their special place for most of the child’s life is about to be taken away from them, as they are rocketed out of their comfort zone into unknown territory. So how should this delicate subject be addressed?

After you have made the decision to move, child psychologists usually advise telling the children as soon as you can. They are certain to find out one way or another and being up front with them will enable you to manage the process better and stay in control. It's

important to approach the conversation with understanding and reassurance. Start by choosing a quiet, calm moment to talk, and make sure the children are fully aware of what’s happening, using language reflective of their age. Explain the reasons for moving, whether it's for a new job, a better home, or other challenging reasons that need to be thoughtfully explained, so that they see the move as an opportunity rather than just a disruption.

Be empathetic and acknowledge their emotions: they might feel sad about leaving their friends, school, or familiar surroundings, so encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings, letting them know that it’s ok to feel upset or unsure. Reassure them, stressing that this move can be exciting, offering new adventures, new friends, and a chance to create new memories.

If possible, involve them in the process; let them help to pack, choose their new

room, or pick their new colour scheme. This helps them feel more in control, included and excited by the move, making it less overwhelming.

Likewise, if your children regard the move as a positive thing they are more likely to be co-operative when buyers come to view your property. Showing your home to prospective purchasers can be stressful enough, but children add an extra dimension. A stress-related tempertantrum as the buyer walks through your door is to be avoided at all costs! Indeed, no matter how sweet your children may be, they are more likely to be a distraction

“

Although moving house might be logical and exciting for an adult, the fear of the unknown can be upsetting for children

to a prospective buyer than an advantage, so head out and allow your trusted agent to show your property. Furthermore, tidying your house for a viewing when you have children is a considerable undertaking. So one off viewings with the non-proceedable buyer can be frustrating for a busy seller, and instead viewings should be grouped together as much as possible, preferably around buyers who can proceed.

I have moved four times in the last six years, and have always been staggered by the adaptability of my children.

Approaching the conversation with love, patience, and a sense of excitement about the new chapter ahead means that ultimately, when their items are packed up, they see that their once happy home is just bricks and mortar, and home is where you, and their belongings are.

www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

How to stop your home renovation becoming a nightmare

As the days get warmer, work begins on home extensions, conversions and renovations across the Kent Weald. Unfortunately, too many of these home improvements end up as nightmares. If you’re planning a home improvement project this spring, Mustafa Sidki and Andrew Harbourne of Thackray Williams’ Real Estate sector explain what you can do to help your grand designs run smoothly

Most people know that home extensions or renovations can take much longer and cost much more than expected. You can’t eliminate all the risks, but you can try to avoid some issues and limit or plan for others.

GET THE RIGHT CONSENTS

Getting the right consents before you start any building work can save a whole lot of headaches. Exactly what you will need will depend upon the type of project; the following checklist will help you identify what you will need for your renovation.

Top of the list are planning and listed building consents, together with building regulations. It’s also worth checking whether you need the consent of anyone to use their design drawings.

You might also need the consent of your mortgage company and your house insurer or the insurer of the block that your flat is in.

Also, are there restrictions on what you can do without consent, in your lease or – if you own a freehold – in your title documents?

If your work might affect the neighbours – for example, by interfering with any right to light they have, or by bringing into play the party wall legislation, or simply by causing them other nuisance or damage –this should be addressed before building work starts to ensure formal agreements are in place.

The range of consents that you may require means you are likely to need advice from specialists such as architects, surveyors and lawyers at an early stage.

THE IMPORTANCE OF DUE DILIGENCE

You’ll also want to get plenty of written estimates from builders and/or the trades. Ultimately, the success of your project may depend on the quality and reliability of the people you use, so it’s worth carrying out checks to ensure your project is in safe hands.

How well do you, or people you trust, know those people? Are you able to inspect work they have done previously or

MEET THE EXPERTS

talk to some of their clients?

Do your contractor and tradespeople carry the insurances they should have for damage to the works and to other people’s property and injury to employees and others, for example? You might need the input of an insurance broker to ensure all the right cover is in place.

Unless you have time and an adequate level of technical knowledge yourself, having an expert (such as an architect or project management surveyor) to act as project manager to supervise the work of your contractor, or indeed all those involved in the project, could be well worth the money. Ask how often they will inspect the work – you don’t want them missing something unsatisfactory because they weren’t there in time to spot it.

PAPERWORK TO PROTECT YOU

You should also consider getting your builder to enter into a formal building contract, such as the homeowner contracts published by the JCT: Home Owner Contracts (jctltd.co.uk), which include an option to appoint a

professional to manage the contract. On a substantial project, it’s worth asking your lawyers to draft a form of appointment of your design and any other important professionals, rather than relying on the professionals’ standard terms and conditions, which are likely to favour them.

WORST-CASE SCENARIOS

What if it goes wrong? It won’t be easy, but if you have kept good written records of what has been happening and have put in place some or all of the protections above (and any others that are appropriate for your project) it should be easier than if you haven’t. Take legal and other professional advice without delay. While the right professional advice at the right time can’t guarantee that the project will be on time and to budget, it should make it more likely – and also help if things do go wrong.

Scan the QR Code to visit the Thackray Williams Website.

Andrew Harbourne and Mustafa Sidki are specialists in construction and property law in the real estate team of leading south east law firm Thackray Williams.

After Hours

Where to wind down in the Wells

Catch of the day

Sankey's celebrates 45 years of doing business

Spice route

Meet Essence at The Pantiles co-owner Jitindar Singh

Sykes on

“Our success is down to our passion for what we do”

This year the legendary Tunbridge Wells hospitality business Sankey’s is celebrating its 45th anniversary. Eileen Leahy catches up with its proprietor Matthew Sankey to discover the secret of its ongoing success…

When Rick Stein drops by for dinner you know that you have pretty much made it as a restaurateur – especially if your hallmark in hospitality is seafood.

“We know Rick pretty well – he and my father go back years. He recently dined with us ahead of his Assembly Hall show,” explains Matthew Sankey who runs the business that boasts the aforementioned restaurant on The Pantiles, Sankey’s Seafood Kitchen & Bar on Mount Ephraim, as well as two fishmongers – one here in Tunbridge Wells and the other in Tonbridge – and an online fishmongers too.

We’re chatting because this year Sankey’s celebrates 45 fantastic years in business. Matthew reveals there are lots of fun events planned throughout the course of 2025 to mark this seminal milestone.

So what does Matthew think the secret to Sankey’s success and longevity has been?

“I think we we’ve been able to adapt to the times faster than others and we also have a niche offering – i.e. fish. We don’t appeal to the mass market but our customers are very, very loyal.”

His father Guy started the seafood business back in 1980 when he ran The Gate pub in Hildenborough, before buying Sankey’s Mount Ephraim site in Tunbridge Wells some years later.

Matthew took over the reigns in 2008 and says that he has been ‘blessed’ with incredible staff who have contributed to the overall success of the business.

“I think that’s been the common thing throughout the decades is that our teams are the absolute centre of everything we do. There is no way we could have been here for this long without them.”

The events will include special discounted menus, summertime events and a series of intimate dinners to thank customers for dining with Sankey’s for over four decades.

This, Matthew says, will include a few ‘meals and memories’ supper clubs whereby Matthew’s head chef will create menus around key moments in the company’s history.

“I’ve told our chef a few good stories

I’m passionate about running the business but I am happiest peeling the skin off a Dover Sole or shucking oysters

about myself and my father and challenged him to come up with a menu based around them which is quite fun!”

Matthew suggests keeping an eye on the group’s social media platforms for more news on events fish fans can get involved in.

“A few weeks ago my father Guy made a guest appearance on our Instagram grid demonstrating how to dress a Cornish crab. His insight and experience has always been invaluable to me.”

But although this year will be one of celebration and reflection Matthew states they are not resting on their laurels – far from it.

“We are constantly looking at how we can better our offering – and we always really appreciate the feedback from our customers.”

He goes on to tell me that the events’ side of the business is going from strength to strength too. “I’ve just returned from a two-week trip to Qatar where we were doing the private catering for the Jota motor sport team and we have now employed a lovely lady called Sarah whose

by

job is to manage our internal events. Since she has been on board, that side of the business has grown rapidly.”

But although Matthew may be tasked with all the day-to-day responsibilities of running the business, he tells me that he still loves getting into the kitchen.

“I’m happiest peeling the skin off a Dover Sole or shucking oysters,” he smiles.

And that brings us nicely onto the subject of Sankey’s suppliers. Matthew says they use a huge variety but the longest relationship they’ve had is with Harvey & Sons in Cornwall.

“We have been with them for decades. Actually working with them even predates my father, as my grandfather used to be a customer in the 1960s when he had the George and Dragon in Speldhurst.

For more information visit www.sankeys.co.uk

image

Key & Quill

Miso roasted aubergine with toasted sesame seeds, soy and pickled pink onions

Winter slaw with cranberries, flaked almonds & an orange, fennel seed dressing

The ethos of Essence

This month Bibi Roy, Events and Marketing Manager at Essence at The Pantiles sits down with the restaurant’s co-owner Jitindar Singh to discover how he and Atul Kochar joined forces many years ago in hospitality and how the industry has changed over the past few years

You are co-owner of Indian Essence in Petts Wood, Sindhu in Marlow and Essence at the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, with esteemed chef Atul Kochhar. How did two very different people come to work together in the industry?

Atul is actually my brother in law. When I came to the UK in 2002 I was Senior Restaurant Manager in the highly acclaimed Mela Group of restaurants in central London. I joined Tamasha in 2025 as General Manager, but I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur and do something of my own. I used to stay with my brother who lived very close to Atul's wife Deepti – who just happens to be sister to my lovely wife Ritu. We met in 2005 and became one big happy family! Atul and I sat down one day and agreed we should do something together, and that’s how almost thirteen years ago we opened Indian Essence.

Tell me more about how you got into the hospitality business? What was your background?

I studied at Dadar Catering College in Mumbai, then started working at Oberoi Mumbai, Taj Mahal Mumbai and Taj Bengal Kolkata, before coming to the UK. I have always loved hospitality and many years on I still have the same passion for the profession as when I began.

Over the years how do you feel the industry has changed?

There are several aspects to this. The clientele have become more demanding, which is a good challenge, but I see that the people who work for us, their passion has diminished somewhat, and this is a big challenge. I am happy to say that our teams are very experienced and despite

“You

have to give your best to your guests, make them feel really welcome and offer good value for money

having to work unsocial hours, they are well above industry standards, having been employed across multiple countries and high-end establishments.

Food delivery platforms such as Deliveroo have definitely created more flexibility for patrons, but this has affected footfall. Positively, trends have, without a doubt, changed hospitality into the vibrant and creative industry it is today.

Do you think team diversity in Indian restaurants is a good thing? Do you feel it works culturally having other nationalities involved - and how can we encourage more women to join in higher roles?

I have always maintained a good mix of people as it is important and gives cohesiveness in our teams. Our General Manager, Roger Pont at Essence is Spanish. He has really embraced Asian culture, greeting everyone in Hindi which they love. We have been promoting more women chefs in our teams, with two at Indian Essence. We are also looking at recruiting another female pastry chef at Essence, our previous one was very highly regarded.

What Indian chefs or restaurants do you feel are making a big impact on the dining scene right now?

The JKS Group, who own both Gymkhana and Brigadiers, do it just right. Then there's Masala World and Chutney Mary – both of which are superb. I still love Amaya and Veeraswamy. Their attention to detail is exceptional, along with their team passion and great food.

Where do you like to eat when you’re not here?

We like Thai Food. My kids love Giggling Squid. I enjoy Patara and Busaba in London.

You’ve been in hospitality a long time, what motivates you to keep going?

The fact that you meet such good people every day and the community that creates is great. My parents always taught me the strength of benevolence, which is why we sponsor many schools and charities. Sadly my father died last year but I am very close to my mother and my younger brother who is product head of HSBC tech.

After 13 years in business Indian Essence has built up a strong reputation and is a cherished establishment in Petts Wood. How do you feel we can build on that credibility here in Tunbridge Wells?

I always follow the same ethos. You have to give your best to your guests, offer good value for money, and make sure everyone feels welcome. We don't do crazy prices and make sure we have several options to cover all pockets.

essencerestaurants.co.uk

Sparking connections

SPARK Business Networking hosted one of its popular socials at Quantum last month. The event saw a number of influential business people, entrepreneurs and marketeers in attendance all of whom enjoyed the venue's delicious hospitality.

SPARK was founded by Jess White in 2022 after she spotted a gap in the market for those working for themselves to have the opportunities to ‘ignite connections and growth’.

"If you work from home or remotely then there are fewer opportunities to connect with others . This light-bulb moment sparked a passion within me to create a supportive community where like-minded individuals could share their journeys, collaborate, and thrive together," explains Jess who is also a qualified yoga instructor and runs YogiTribe.

Over the past three years SPARK

Business Networking has run regular events, meetings, trainings and coworking sessions for local professionals to connect and collaborate in and around Tunbridge Wells.

“Founded on the principles of developing relationships and encouraging growth, SPARK provides a vibrant platform for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and freelancers to share ideas and resources,” adds Jess.

"Regular events, both online and inperson, facilitate meaningful discussions and networking opportunities, enabling members and guests to expand their professional circles. With a focus on collaboration and community, Spark empowers businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape."

Find our more by visiting www.sparkbusinessnetworking.co.uk

Photography: Bass Film Co

“We celebrate Kent’s unique terroir in the wines we make”

Adrian and Galia Pike of Westwell Wine Estates talk exclusively to James Viner about their award-winning vineyard which supplies the likes of Tallow in Southborough and Corkk in Tunbridge Wells with their innovative wines

Located just on the North Downs just below the historic Pilgrims Way, Westwell Wine Estates is renowned for its innovative approach, unique visual identity, and lively community events. As this magazine’s wine editor, I was recently afforded the opportunity to sit down with the husbandand-wife team behind this exciting and forward-thinking winery. Here’s what Adrian and Galia Pike had to say about their wines…’

Galia, please introduce yourself, WW & Adrian

Established in 2017, we’re a lowintervention vineyard and winery near Charing in Kent with a steadily growing team. Adrian is the winemaker and MD, while I’m responsible for design, illustration, marketing, and photography.

How did you become involved in the wine industry?

Adrian had run a music company (Moshi Moshi) in London. The first English wine he fell in love with was a still white from Davenport Vineyard - Horsmonden Dry. The day after trying it, he called the producer, Will Davenport and started working with him.

Tell us about your vineyards and what’s grown in them…

The first 13 acres of the vineyard were originally planted by John and Rids Rowe in 2008. We continued planting and now have closer to 36 acres on the main estate. We grow Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, a little Regent and our signature grape, Ortega. We typically produce about 30,000 bottles of fizz and 20,000 of still wine annually.

We grow Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, a little Regent and our signature grape, Ortega. We typically produce about 30,000 bottles of fizz and 20,000 of still wine annually

How would you describe your wine style?

Fruit-forward stills and sparklers that celebrate the land. We try to celebrate Kent’s unique terroir in the wines we make. We love experimenting, from wild ferments and skin-contact ‘orange’ wines to collaborations with breweries and lower alcohol wines made with pressings.

What types of visitor experiences do you offer?

We host diverse events, including tours, tastings, creative workshops with Kentish artists, cinema screenings, theatre productions, pizza nights, local markets, supper clubs, weddings, wakes, and an annual dog show. Join us for the Wine Garden of England Summer Celebration at Chilham Castle on June 7.

What’s happening this spring?

We’ll soon release new sparkling wines for spring restaurant wine lists. In the

winery, we’ll blend and taste the new vintage alongside our flagship Pelegrim NV, exploring options based on the wines' characteristics. By early spring, we will have nearly finished pruning our 50,000 vines and will closely monitor them for early signs of sap rising. We’re also reopening membership for our Sun Dirt Yeast Club, our democratic winemaking club where members make choices to create a release of their own.

What are the main joys and challenges for your business?

The joys are also the pitfalls - the surprises, the challenges which demand invention, resilience and innovation, and the unexpected nature of growing and making wine in a marginal climate. The industry's ongoing development presents challenges but also excitement as England explores its wine production potential, creating a perfect playground for experimentation.

Which wine are you most proud of?

We’re most proud of our Pinot Meunier Multi Vintage, an exceptional variety that thrives in England's chalky soil. This unique wild traditional method wine, made without any additions over three vintages, took five years to create and was worth every tear!

Westwell Wine Estates

The Vyneyarde, Westwell Lane, Charing  Kent, TN27 0BW

W:       westwellwines.com

E:        cellardoor@westwellwines.com

Mum’s the word

Forget high-priced flowers and chocolate this Mother’s Day (March 30); indulge her with one of these tasty bottles instead…

1. Vilarnau ‘Gaudi’ Organic Rosé Cava Brut Reserva 2022 Spain (£12 mix 6, Majestic, 12%)

A glass of quality fruity, artisanal, traditional method pink Spanish fizz like this will lift Mum’s spirits.

2. Spier Villa Blue Albariño 2023 South Africa (£12.99, Laithwaites, 13.5%)

A mouthwatering, rich, textural SA Albariño (SA only has 35 ha), with delicious, tangy, melon, white peach and grapefruit-licked pizzazz.

3. Arbousset Tavel Rosé 2022 France (£13, Tesco, 13.5%)

Bold, tangy, dark-hued Grenacheforward Rhône rosé with bags of ripe red fruits, medium acidity and a little chewiness on the finish.

4. Les Pionniers Rosé Champagne NV France (£24, Coop, 12%)

Exquisite own-label champagne made for Co-op by Piper-Heidsieck, with a creamy texture, delicate notes of cherries, raspberries and a toasty finish.

5. Haysmith’s London Dry Gin (£16.49, Aldi, 40%)

Aldi’s bargainous premium gin is a fresh citrus, juniper and peppery hit, as happy solo as it is with mixers.

6. Chapel Down Rosé NV Kent (£31.50-£33, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose & Majestic, 12%)

This local winery’s stylish, bestselling NV pink bubbly will have Mum coming back for another sip! Think raspberry, strawberry and citrus.

Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines

2

5

JAMES VINER

Toasting two of our amazing award-winning wineries

In her second column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Jo Ginn who runs the Wine Garden of England collective, shines the spotlight on two of the incredible wineries that form part of this organisation

Wine Garden of England is a collaboration of nine Kent vineyards who work together to promote Kent as the leading county for wine tourism.

Wine tourism has always been associated with the warmer climes such as South Africa, California and, of course, France. Now we have a burgeoning wine industry of our own, England is becoming an interesting option for wine tourists, and Kent in particular.

Kent is the sunniest county in the UK (it may not seem that way but I promise this is a fact) so it is perfect for growing grapes and frolicking in the vineyards with a glass of award winning sparkling wine.

You simply do not need to travel across the world to have this experience any more. Over the next few issues of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, I will be concentrating on introducing you to the vineyards that I work with, so that you have some inspiration for your next day out with friends.

Let’s start with the two you have probably already heard of. Chapel Down is the largest wine producer in the UK and based in Tenterden. Half an hour away in Staplehurst is the very stylish Balfour Winery, whose wines are often displayed next to Chapel Down’s in supermarkets and specialist wine stores.

CHAPEL DOWN TENTERDEN

Chapel Down produces around two million bottles a year, across a range of different styles from their premium Kits Coty Blanc de Bancs to their everyday Flint Dry which has become a firm favourite amongst its customers. The visitor experience at Tenterden does not betray the size of the company. It is home to the original plantings, so the vines are pretty

old by English standards. Guided tours are available to book every day of the year, and you’ll learn about the lifecycle of the vines, the workings of the on-site winery, and the fascinating method of producing traditional method sparkling wine. There is a well-stocked shop, full of local produce that can be paired with their large range of wines. The restaurant is run by the I’ll Be Mother group, called the Swan at Chapel Down, and is one of the best in Kent. A real treat would be a tour and tasting in the morning followed by a leisurely lunch at The Swan.

If you have less time to spare, you can just drop in to browse the shop and have a drink on the terrace. There’s always a warm welcome, throughout the year. chapeldown.com

BALFOUR WINERY STAPLEHURST

An absolutely idyllic example of an English vineyard, just seven minutes away from Marden train station. Balfour is one of the largest wine producers, with production of around 750K bottles. It is

Over the next few issues of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, I will be introducing you to the Wine Garden of England vineyards so that you have some inspiration for your next day out with friends

JO GINN

well equipped to grow still further now that it is a large site winery and boasts wonderful hospitality.

The restaurant overlooks the perfectly manicured Nanette’s Vineyard. You have a choice of a la carte in the Winemaker's Kitchen, or more casual dining downstairs, including delicious flatbreads and sharing platters. The wines are expertly made by Fergus Elias and his team, and the range is impressive. The first wine that Balfour produced was modelled on Champagne Billecart Salmon’s Rosé. The Balfour Brut Rosé won awards in its first vintage and has grown to be the iconic signature wine for this producer. The wine is best enjoyed sitting on the terrace, surrounded by vines, summer meadows and ancient woodlands. Sounds too good to be true? There’s more… Balfour kindly offer a free shuttle service from Marden station at weekends, so you don’t even need to bring the car. I often say that Balfour is the ‘starter vineyard’ for new wine tourists. It’s just too easy to have a good time! balfourwinery.com

Find out more about the Wine Garden of England here: www.winegardenofengland.co.uk Instagram: @winegardenofengland

Tickets to the Summer Celebration on June 7 at Chilham Castle in Kent can be bought via www.winegardenofengland.co.uk

“My interior design brings personality, warmth and happiness to homes”

Joss Miller has run her own eponymously named interior design company for the past seven years. Working with both commercial and private clients to create dream homes, which not only look beautiful but also enhance one’s sense of wellbeing, Joss is finding herself more and more in demand for her talented work. Here she tells Eileen Leahy more about her work and what inspires it – and why working with local businesses is so important

Why and when did you start your career as an interior designer?

After the birth of my daughter in 2016, and a number of personal property projects, I decided to have a change of career and follow my passion for interior design. I began working as an interior stylist for friend who ran a luxury design studio in London. Working alongside the design team for more than a year was invaluable. This early experience in the industry opened up local opportunities for me to secure my own clients in Tunbridge Wells, and by 2018 I’d launched Joss Miller Interiors. My first project was furnishing a five bedroom home in the town centre for a couple with two children moving from a two bed apartment. We became friends during the process and it’s lovely to see them still enjoying their home years later!

What were the main challenges you faced when you were starting out?

By nature I’m quite proactive so I spent the first couple of years meeting with builders, developers, architects, tradesmen and women, interior experts and suppliers locally and in London. Immediately I realised the town is home to lots of small

How has your interior design business grown since you established it?

Since setting up my business, I have worked with clients in Kent, Sussex and London. I have not only had the privilege of witnessing how interior design brings personality and warmth to properties, but also how the process inspires creativity and happiness in the home. I now have a small team, including a design assistant, who help me deliver projects and we work with a trusted team of contractors and trades experts who execute our designs impeccably.

Would you say your design aesthetic has changed over the years and if so, how?

My heart has always been drawn to period or listed properties and I love nothing more than restoring their character, whilst also helping clients modernise these homes with a contemporary edge. We are committed to curating schemes with a timeless aesthetic and therefore the style hasn’t changed much - if anything we include more texture and natural materials than ever before, with sustainability in mind. Our aim is to design homes and source products clients will treasure for years to come.

How would you describe the signature Joss Miller Interiors style?

It is classic and elegant, with a hint of modern or rustic charm, depending on the property and brief. Our designs begin with a neutral, calming palette and we introduce layers of texture and colour to add sophistication and warmth to our schemes. We champion bespoke,

business owners who are supportive and collaborative and having that network around me from the start helped me build confidence and knowledge. Instagram proved early on to be a great way to share my style and connect with other interior and property creatives and my client base organically grew as I developed my project portfolio - even now most of my clients contact me through recommendations and word of mouth.

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My heart has always been drawn to period or listed properties and I love nothing more than restoring their character, whilst also helping clients modernise these homes

Photography: Mikey Reed

handmade furniture and soft furnishings not only to add personality and beauty to homes, but to provide clients with products they love that will stand the test of time. We blend our experience and expertise with the clients’ vision and in doing so we achieve a truly bespoke scheme for each project, whilst ensuring quality, cohesiveness and harmony throughout.

You work with a number of local businesses. Can you tell us a bit about them?

We deliver projects alongside a number of suppliers, trade experts, local contractors and architects - supporting local business and creativity is really important to us as a small business ourselves. We work regularly with Beau Property Design & Build, having established a relationship with the Beau Property development team as an interior design consultant when I was first setting up my business.

To achieve a truly bespoke scheme, joinery and drapery are two services we recommend to all our clients. We regularly use SJC Bespoke Joinery and The Drapery Tunbridge Wells to deliver our projects as their beautiful designs elevate any new room scheme. I also like to source products from local suppliers. These include Sunniva Flooring in the town centre, Sofas & Stuff in Eridge and the bathroom supplier Salacia which is in Cranbrook.

PICTURE THIS:

These images are from a recent project Joss has worked on in a Victorian property located in the St John’s area of Tunbridge Wells. Here she tells us more about it:

“It was a pleasure to return to this particular project last year to assist the clients with phase two of their home renovation, after having previously redesigned their master suite and family bathroom. Phase two included a beautiful new David Salisbury orangery and new scheme for their large adjoining living room. The brief was for a calming and sophisticated multifunctional space which aesthetically created a flow to the garden. We reinstated period cornicing and added panelling, and zoned the living room to give the family a media area with cosy seating by the fireplace.

A neutral earthy palette layered with natural materials and textured fabrics achieved the style they wanted, whilst bespoke joinery, curtains and upholstery elevated the space. Statement lighting completed the scheme.

Do most of your clients give you free rein or is there a lot of collaboration? Every project is different but generally clients instruct us following a recommendation and would like us to help them achieve our signature style. We offer them a design and consultation service only if they or their contractor is sourcing products, such as bathroom goods, and we provide a full specification. However, we also offer a full design and procurement service too which most clients opt for. This is a full turn-key service, from designing the new schemes to styling the rooms on handover day.

During the entire process clients can be involved as little or as much as they would like. Generally clients like us to lead the project to alleviate the pressure on them - designers don’t only design and source products, we manage budgets and schedules, liaise with contractors and often spend hours on site in the rain so clients don’t have to!

Are the majority of them local to this area - or further afield?

Most of our clients and contractors are located locally – or sometimes they are within a few hours of Tunbridge Wells, and we would go further afield for the right project. However, we rely and trust our network around us who deliver projects alongside us, and we are committed to supporting the local small business community. We often have clients living abroad who are renovating

properties in the UK. Where necessary we can solely work with the architect and contractor to complete the project on their behalf if required.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

We work with clients on small scale projects and also large scale new builds, home renovations and extensions. It’s always a pleasure to design a home in its entirety to ensure the flow throughout and complete a full home transformation for the clients. However, sometimes the smaller projects such a master suite, bathroom or nursery bring such joy too and make a real difference to how the client uses the space on a daily basis. I’ve always felt our homes and our wellbeing are intrinsically linked, and it’s a privilege to help people make real change at home that also makes real change in their hearts and minds. I will never forget handing over a master suite project to a client who’d spent some time in hospital and really needed a sanctuary at home to return to. When we unveiled the room she couldn’t hold her back her happy tears - it was such a wonderful moment.

Tell us about any exciting plans you have in store for 2025

We are the busiest we have ever been, with current projects, including period property renovations and modern home refurbishments, keeping us busy in 2026 too! I am hoping to expand the team with a graduate designer to expand our offerings and portfolio, and have considered a studio space with shop to showcase our schemes and favourite interior pieces. So there are some exciting times ahead! I’m always grateful to the supportive, creative small business teams around us in the town and of course clients who trust us with their precious homes.

www.jossmillerinteriors.co.uk

joss@jossmillerinteriors.co.uk 07712 413 384

@jossmillerinteriors

Creative vision

Our regular spotlight on our local galleries showcases the types of artwork they have available to buy. This month we talk to Amber Pollard-Rea gallery manager at Castle Fine Art about some of the current pieces you can invest in…

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1. BALANCE - ORIGINAL SCARLETT RAVEN

Framed size: 28.0in x 28.0in | 71.0cm x 71.0cm - £2,500

Released as part of her ‘Beyond The Surface’ collection where for every artwork sold from the 2024 collection, 10% of the sale will be donated to Mind, a charity close to her heart for its crucial role in supporting and advocating for better mental health services.

Raven has long explored the depths of human emotion through her vividly coloured and textured artworks, finding solace and a healthy outlet during her darkest times in her incredibly tactile methods and uplifting floral canvases. Following a nervous breakdown in December 2023, which led to the diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the tactile nature of building her textured canvases became a source of comfort and grounding, anchoring her to the present moment and providing a sense of purpose and direction. A testament to the power of creativity as a catalyst for healing and self-discovery, the Beyond The Surface collection was born during an incredibly challenging period.

“The paintings have been broken down by absence of colour. When in fact they are more confident than ever. They are louder than ever.” - Scarlett Raven

2. FARMLAND FIRE - ORIGINAL LAWRENCE COULSON

Framed size: 28.6in x 28.6in | 72.0cm x 72.0cm - £2,950

Much like the romanticism landscape artists before him, Lawrence Coulson conveys the beauty and power of nature in his moving paintings through traditional materials. Perfect as a classical touch

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to any space, this original oil painting showcases Lawrence’s incredible talent and passion for the historical genre of landscape painting.

Although oil paint has traditionally been used in landscape painting for hundreds of years, Lawrence’s technique of applying the paint is truly unique. After denoting the horizon in a thin pencil line, Lawrence uses only his finger to apply and blend his paint before using a toothpick to add any small figures in his vast composition.

Lawrence says: “I see beauty in the simplest of things. I’m interested in playing with narratives and characters and using light and texture in different ways to evoke emotions”.

3. BROOKLYN HEIGHTS - LIMITED EDITION OF 295 - BOB DYLAN

Framed size: 56.0in x 44.0in | 142.2cm x 111.8cm - £8,950

Released as part of Bob Dylan’s 2024 The Beaten Path collection and exclusively to Castle Fine Art, ‘Brooklyn Heights’ captures the recognisable motifs of Dylan’s work with mesmerising detail and a beautiful contrasting colour palette.

Exploring the American landscape, The Beaten Path depicts the essence of an often-ignored America in the drive-ins, roadside stores and kerbside buskers that fill the landscape between the country’s coasts.

In this latest chapter in Dylan’s visual chronicle of United States scenery, we see more of residential American living. People walking on tree-lined streets, musicians playing music outside a suburban home; this carefully curated collection of artwork offers a new perspective from Dylan in his unfolding portrait of America.

In his own words, the collection captures America “how you see it while crisscrossing

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the land and see it for what it’s worth. Staying out of the mainstream and traveling the back roads, free born style”.

4. MIDAS (TEAL) LIMITED EDITION OF 95 GARY

JAMES MCQUEEN

Framed size: 30.6in x 39.5in | 77.7cm x 100.3cm - £1,450

Released as part of Gary James McQueen’s debut collection with Castle Fine Art, ‘Midas (Teal)’ honours a form that is somewhat synonymous with the McQueen name – the skull. A powerful emblem of storytelling for his uncle, the late, great fashion designer Lee Alexander McQueen, the skull remains a timeless symbol of life’s beauty, fragility and transience.

He hand-sketches the artwork before digitally sculpting it into a 3D image. The ornate gilded details act as Gary James McQueen’s Midas touch – befitting of the mythical nature of his work and his passion for storytelling – a passion rooted in his childhood. As a teen, he and Lee would watch classic fantasy and arthouse horror films together, sketching ideas for their own characters, stories and places. His work has been exhibited in galleries

on both sides of the Atlantic to critical acclaim, including London’s V&A and New York’s Met, and now we see him translate his extraordinary art into a limited-edition silkscreen collection for the first time, exclusively for Castle Fine Art

5. STILLNESS IN MOTION I - ORIGINAL PAULO FERREIRA

Framed size: 52.6in x 52.8in | 133.5cm x 134.0cm - £5,500

A testament to the artist mastery of abstraction art, ‘Stillness in Motion I’ carries a peaceful, almost spiritual quality. Exploring the interplay between movement, balance and serenity, the raw beauty of the artwork is enthralling, with every drop of colour masterfully placed.

Embodying a unique duality where both depth and simplicity coexist, the spherical artwork is timeless and serene. The circular shape of the artwork, often associated with wholeness and unity, conveys the cyclical nature of life, enhancing the original artwork’s ethereal presence.

While the spheric form and artwork composition convey constant flowing energy, the contemporary and minimalist colour palette focused on red, silver and gold instils a deep sense of calm. The abstractness of the painting creates space for the viewer to find their own meaning and experience both dynamism and stillness in a single moment.

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THERE IS ONLY YOU LIMITED EDITION OF 95 - GRACELAND LONDON

Framed size: 44.0in x 44.0in | 111.8cm x 111.8cm - £1,450

Creating images of decadence and vice through candy colours and playful form, Graceland London presents the perfect balance between the beautiful and the dark, reflecting the social and economic climate with a supernatural scepticism. At only 32 years of age Graceland London has had her work exhibited internationally including Art Basel for Miami Art Week!  A femme fatale figure plays chess, but the pawns are far from traditional. The bloodied hand of another touches the player’s wrist, are they looking to take control of her game? The painting features many of Graceland London’s signature motifs, including the ‘squeegee’ – a small, colourful, expressive character that represents the ego, often acting as an indicator of the wider narrative behind the image.

With an assorted melting pot of inspiration, Graceland London sees her paintings as faceless self-portraits, highlighting the strength, darker beauty and resilience of women, whilst tackling emotions and themes that everyone can connect with, no matter who they are.

www.castlefineart.com

45 High St, Tunbridge Wells

Experience horticultural history

This month our resident gardening expert Tim Sykes of Gardenproud talks about the inspiration he finds whenever he visits IIford Manor Gardens – a treasured space he describes as ‘an eclectic masterpiece’

As you drive over the picturesque bridge into the grounds of Iford Manor near Bradford-on-Avon you are transported in time. It’s a bit like a real life Narnia experience.

Iford Manor’s history dates back to the Domesday Book, but the gardens are mainly the works of the talented and renowned 20th century landscape architect Harold Peto.

Peto lived at Iford from 1899-1933, he was a world renowned designer working in the gardens of the Rothschilds and the Astors. The gardens are a masterpiece, greatly influenced by his travels and interests in Italianate, Neoclassical and Eastern styles.  As you visit you will be impressed by a wide variety of classical architecture and statutes and urns that feature over a series of terraces that are landscaped into the steep valley in which the garden and the manor house are set. They create a unique array of rooms that are softened with lovely planting creating a dramatic experience for visitors.

We recently visited Iford with our family who live in nearby Bath and had a wonderful time. It was a balmy day, the sun was shining and the colours were brilliant. The terrain was slightly challenging as my younger son relies on

“Like topiary, good architectural design creates a structure and life for gardens beyond spring and summer and throughout the year

a wheelchair so our plan was to start as high as we could and work our way down through the garden. It worked perfectly and Harry had a really enjoyable time, plus there were some easy pathways down .

There is an excellent restaurant and cafe situated in a pleasant walled courtyard, so try and plan your visit to coincide with lunch, or afternoon tea.

For over 50 years, Iford Manor has been

the home of the Cartwright Hignetts, who have worked tirelessly to care for and restore the gardens.

They bought Iford in 1965 from Harold Peto’s nephew. The garden was in serious decline and needed a lot of TLC. It is situated on a shifting clay hill that needed some significant work. This was hindering the architectural features which were subsiding due a lack of foundations.

This was addressed by the Cartwrights and after a lot of investment and hard work they have helped achieve a long term future for the gardens.

Peto believed in creating a balance between the hard landscaping and planting. He loved architecture and adored plants. A man after my own heart!

Like topiary, good architectural design creates a structure and life for gardens beyond spring and summer and throughout the year.

So if you haven’t been already then make sure you put Iford on your ‘go-to’ list and be inspired! Just be wary as you drive down to the house off the main road, as in places it’s a one track thoroughfare with passing spots. So travel with caution…

Located in the centre of Tunbridge Wells, TN1 Bar & Kitchen combines a modern, spacious restaurant with a lively bar. This family-owned, award winning, restaurant offers a friendly welcome, fresh food cooked to order, and a wide range of cocktails and drinks.

GRAB A BREAKFAST BAP AND A COFFEE FROM JUST £7

Whether you’re catching up with friends, fuelling up after the school run, or kicking off a work meeting, it’s the perfect way to start your morning. Offer available 9am - midday.

CONTACT INFO:

Website: www.ifordmanor.co.uk

Call: 01225 863146

Iford Manor, near Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire, BA15 2BA. Gardens open from 2nd April 2025.

For advice with your garden design or landscaping contact Tim Sykes on 07725 173820,  or see Gardenproud at www.gardenproud.co.uk

We are open 7 days a

COME AND CELEBRATE

MOTHER’S DAY WITH US

Join us on Sunday, 30th March, for a celebration filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Treat the special woman in your life to a memorable experience and create lasting memories in the perfect setting!

IGo on a global adventure

See the world courtesy of Travelsphere, the specialist luxury holiday experts who go beyond the guidebook to give you a genuine travel experience that you’ll never forget...

f you want to enjoy amazing experiences and have the holiday of a lifetime every time - then look no further than Travelsphere.

Their tours include so much - from return flights and outstanding hotels to genuinely incredible experiences, local flavours and, an expert Holiday Director to make sure you don’t miss a thing. These are just some of the reasons they have been rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot.    On tour, they love to give you a delightful blend of iconic highlights and take you beyond the guidebook to explore some hidden gems as well. They also make sure that there is free time to make your own discoveries too.

They’ve been carefully creating awardwinning holidays for over 60 years, and the Americas is home to some of their most diverse and dynamic adventures. Be immersed in rich cultures that have been built around an enormous diversity of people, iconic landmarks, wondrous wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes – both North and South America are phenomenal destinations for an escorted tour.

GALAPAGOS ISLAND HOPPING

This is a holiday of a lifetime for nature lovers. Across two weeks, you’ll explore Ecuador's cloud forest and stay on three of the famed Galapagos Islands.  14 days from £5,699pp  October 2025 – April 2026

THE BEST OF THE DEEP SOUTH –MARDI GRAS SPECIAL DEPARTURE

From Nashville to New Orleans, from Johnny Cash to Elvis - take a toe-tapping journey through America's Deep South,

culminating in the world-famous Mardi Gras.  12 days from £3,999pp  8 February 2026

GRAND TOUR OF CANADA & THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER WITH VANCOUVER ADD-ON

Journey from east to west taking in the best of Canada, plus a ride on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train topped off with a relaxing stay in Vancouver.  19 days from £6,998  May 2025 – September 2026

LATIN WONDERS OF THE WORLD WITH RIO ADD-ON

Soak up the spectacular sights and sounds of four Latin American countries - Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Brazil - on a tour that's strictly for the adventurous. Enjoy extended time in the fascinating city of Rio de Janeiro at the end of your holiday.  20 days from £6,148pp  February – November 2026

HIGHLIGHTS OF NEW ENGLAND

Discover the splendours of New England, from historic Boston and charming Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard and beautiful Maine.  10 days from £3,449pp  September 2025 – October 2026

For more information on these magnificent tours, please contact your local Baldwins Travel branch www.baldwinstravel.com  Call 01732 225533

Find inspiration for your next holiday at the Sussex #HolidayInspirations Show

Meet the experts and discover incredible holiday and cruise destinations from around the globe! Enjoy inspiring presentations and get the chance to WIN fantastic prizes in our FREE prize draw. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to plan your next adventure!

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My Tunbridge Wells, Your Tunbridge Wells

Clare

from My Tunbridge Wells is your expert guide to all the fantastic events happening from now until midApril in and around Tunbridge Wells

Work it out…

Check out ‘Your Work Here’, a free exhibition bursting with local creativity at The Amelia Scott in Tunbridge Wells. This showcase celebrates the incredible talent within the TN postcode area. Explore a colourful mix of artwork, connect with your community, and discover the artistic magic right on your doorstep. Running from now until 1st June – don’t miss it! For more details visit www.theamelia.co.uk

Full steam ahead

Pop along to the Spa Valley Railway on Saturday March 15, for a magical day out with The Gruffalo! Meet the beloved children’s character at Tunbridge Wells West station, and enjoy a scenic steam train ride through the beautiful High Weald. Get ready to spot The Gruffalo as he makes regular appearances throughout the day. Tickets and timings at www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Viva Espana!

Join the Spanish Wine Night at The Leicester Arms in Penshurst on Thursday March 20. Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with fine wines and delicious Spanish cuisine as this gorgeous country pub celebrates the country’s most popular wines and dishes. It promises to be a truly indulgent experience. www.theleicesterarmspenshurst.co.uk

Sweet charity

The Celebration of Women Afternoon Tea takes place on Sunday March 23 at the gorgeous private venue LIMEKILN on Eridge Road in Crowborough. Enjoy an afternoon of high tea, bubbles, fabulous entertainment, and inspiring talks, all in honour of International Women’s Day and supporting the Taylor Made Dreams charity which supports children with life-limiting illnesses. This year’s guest speakers include The McIndoe Centre’s Dr. Emma Sloan who is a GP and Menopause Specialist. To book tickets head to www.taylormadedreams.org.uk

Staging a comeback

The amazing Wicked Productions are bringing their rollicking rendition of Robin Hood to the EM Forster Theatre from March 28 - 30. Get ready for a familyfriendly adventure packed with laughter, catchy tunes, and a dash of magic! Expect spectacular sets, dazzling costumes, and a show brimming with enchantment.   www.emftheatre.com

How sweet it is…

On Saturday March 29, Trinity Theatre welcomes an unforgettable tribute to the legendary James Taylor, performed by Vernon James. As the world marks the 50th anniversary of Taylor’s iconic hit How Sweet It Is, this special evening celebrates the enduring magic of this legendary artist’s music, which has touched millions over his remarkable 55-year career. Vernon James will bring to life timeless classics such as Sweet Baby James, Fire and Rain, and Frozen Man, staying true to Taylor’s soulful style. To book tickets head to www.trinitytheatre.co.uk

Escape to the country

Blackberry Farm near Lewes is offering free entry with every full paying child this Mother’s Day on Sunday March 30. All the usual daily activities will be on offer including animal handling and tractor and pony rides. This is a fantastic family farm

Photograph: Mollie Manning

Clare Lush-Mansell

Lush-Mansell

THE SPA HOTEL

VERNON JAMES

which we have enjoyed taking the kids to many times over the last few years. For more info visit www.blackberry-farm.co.uk

Because she’s worth it

The Spa Hotel in Royal Tunbridge Wells has two lovely ways to celebrate Mother’s Day. Enjoy Afternoon Tea, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and handcrafted miniature cakes while harpist Victoria Longhurst plays live. Or you can treat your mum to a Sunday Lunch in The Orangery, with a two or three-course meal in a beautiful setting. Details at www.spahotel.co.uk

Child’s play

Freckle Productions brings The Baddies to the Assembly Hall from April 1 to 3. Based on the wickedly funny book from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, meet a witch, a troll, and an ancient ghost who love being bad—roaring, spooking, and casting spells to scare a fearless young girl. With songs by Joe Stilgoe (Zog, Zog and The Flying Doctors), this

laugh-out-loud family show is packed with mischief and mayhem.   www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Spring into Easter

From April 5 - 21, you have the chance to celebrate Easter and the arrival of adorable newborn animals at Kent Life near Maidstone. Watch lamb bottlefeeding demonstrations, enjoy fun Big Top shows, and hop on a farm ride for a springtime adventure. Get creative in the Paint A Pot studio, and keep an

eye out for the Easter Bunny with tasty treats! www.kentlife.org.uk

A perfect family day out

Don’t miss the first of the local lambing days. Join the fun at Princess Christian’s Farm where you can meet the animals, enjoy lambing talks, and browse homemade gifts and plants in the Farm Shop. Get hands-on with reptile handling sessions, and refuel with fresh food from Munchkins Café. Visit www.princesschristiansfarm.org.uk

BLACKBERRY FARM

KENT LIFE

Why it’s good to talk…

The Counselling Centre is a local charity supporting mental health in the West Kent community through accessible, accredited counselling. Here Cathy Garling, Head of this specialist organisation explains more about how it supports individuals and businesses…

How are you? It’s a question you’re likely to be asked several times a day, whether in an email from a colleague, a message from a friend or an off-the-cuff chat at the supermarket checkout.

But despite hearing it so often, it’s something we rarely face with real honesty. In the right company, we might share an update on physical ailments but, more likely, we’ll bat it back to the questioner, politely reciprocating their concern.

Yet when we do give the question of how we are the consideration it deserves, we start to tap into deeper insights about our current mindset and the true state of our mental wellbeing. It might lead us to realise that we’re feeling the weight of a range of problems, anxieties and struggles, and that they could be eased if we get the right kind of help.

“As well as working with private individuals, we also work with a range of local companies, supporting their staff with counselling through Employer Assistance Programmes

At The Counselling Centre, we’ve been providing that kind of help to the people of West Kent for four decades. As a charity, our mission is to make counselling more accessible to more people by reducing the financial barriers involved.

Our model is based on affordability: those who can meet the cost of counselling pay the standard session rate, but those who aren’t in a position to meet

the cost pay a significantly reduced rate, which we are able to subsidise through our fundraising and commercial activities. This allows The Counselling Centre to support those in need with valuable help that they might otherwise not be able to access – and we ensure they get that help as quickly as possible.

Our counselling service is accredited by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), which sets industry-agreed professional standards for a variety of different counselling disciplines. At The Counselling Centre, we offer psychodynamic counselling, which is defined by a focus on helping people secure long-lasting change by resolving underlying issues that are negatively influencing current feelings and behaviours.

Our counsellors are trained to help address and unlock these issues through confidential sessions of talking therapy for as long as they are needed. Our aim is to provide clients with the understanding and resilience to cope with specific problems or simply to lead happier, healthier lives.

As well as working with private

individuals, we also work with a range of local companies, supporting their staff with counselling through Employer Assistance Programmes (EAPs).

As a centre of excellence for psychodynamic counselling, we also provide training for practising counsellors and those considering a career in the profession. All of our counsellors achieved their qualifications with us, and we are proud to support and grow the community of people providing this life-changing mental health service across Kent and Sussex.

So, the next time you hear that question, give some proper thought to how you really are, and know that help is at hand right here in Tunbridge Wells.

For further information, call us on 01892 548750, email info@thecounsellingcentre.org.uk, or please visit thecounsellingcentre.org. uk, where you’ll find information about our counselling service and details of our training courses – including our upcoming one-day Introduction to Counselling workshop.

Charitable endeavour

Throughout this year, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is delighted to be the media partner of Demelza for their Trail with a Tail event this summer.

Demelza delivers extraordinary care to extraordinary children who are facing serious or life-limiting conditions in the Tunbridge Wells area as well as the rest of Kent, East Sussex and South East London.

Each month we bring you news, information and history about the charity, focusing on a different aspect of their work in each edition of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

This month we’re looking back at Demelza’s rebrand. The charity was established in Kent in 1998 in memory of Derek and Jennifer Phillips’s daughter Demelza, who died of a brain tumour at the age of 24. Since its launch, the charity has grown in the services offered to families, the number of children with serious or life-limiting conditions cared for, an expansion into East Sussex and South East London, and the voluntary donations needed to continue to maintain and grow clinical, emotional, and practical support services.

The charity was established in Kent in 1998 in memory of Derek and Jennifer Phillips’s daughter Demelza, who died of a brain tumour at the age of 24

Demelza was previously identified by its distinctive name, red colour, white dots and clown logo and this identity was a core area of consideration when rebranding. Fully evaluating the brand also involved looking at the charity’s brand strategy – vision, mission and positioning, brand system - logo, tone of voice, brand design, and brand story.

The original red and white clown brand had remained until March 2023, when a new look was unveiled. The aim of the rebrand, led by B Corp certified Kentbased strategic creative agency Catch A Fire, was to increase awareness and interest in Demelza’s services and support families alongside healthcare providers as well as reach prospective staff and volunteers and encourage donors to reimagine and engage with their local children’s hospice.

After extensive external and internal research, the Demelza team worked

alongside Catch A Fire over eight months to explore four key areas of brand development – discovery, positioning, identity and assets.

Catch A Fire returned to Demelza Phillips for inspiration for the new digital-first brand and the new logo reflected her image as a symbol of extraordinary care, designed to bring warmth and personality to the brand.

The rebrand also involved removing the word ‘hospice’ from the charity’s name to help tackle misconceptions around children’s hospices, which can be a barrier to families accessing care.

Since the rebrand, Demelza has reached more families and increased income and engagement.

Catch A Fire has continued to support Demelza since the rebrand, and last year raised more than £4,000 for the charity through a variety of different fundraising activities. The agency has also nominated Demelza as its 2025 Charity of the Year.

The agency’s Head of Design, Kamran Akram, said: “We loved working so closely with the team at Demelza, a true collaborative effort. We set out to create a new digital-first brand identity that would support Demelza’s long-term strategic mission to reach even more children and families.

“We created branding that would reflect the organisation’s core values using the charity founding inspiration, Demelza Phillips. We are so proud of the outcome and excited to continue supporting Demelza.”

Account Manager Sera Bennett kicked off the company’s 2025 fundraising with a half marathon earlier this month.

This summer, Demelza’s Trail with a Tale will see beautifully illustrated large sculptures and smaller animal sculptures

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to

all ages to enjoy. The larger sculptures will be designed and decorated by artists, while local schools and community groups have also been invited to get involved by signing up to design their own smaller sculptures. www.demelza.org.uk

THE DOWNLOAD ON DEMELZA

• With two residential hospices in Kent and South East London, a community hub in East Sussex and community care teams providing services in the family home, Demelza’s nursing team also has a presence on the paediatric ward at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury, working with families of children with complex needs and identifying those who would benefit from a referral to Demelza

• The charity offers support as unique as every family they work with; from symptom management, day care and short breaks, to practical and emotional support for families and siblings, creative therapies, memory making, end of life care and bereavement support

• Support services are provided in family homes and online, allowing families the ability to access help where best suits them. Families can also make use of fully accessible facilities across the hospice sites, including sensory rooms, soft play and a large hydro pool at Demelza’s Kent site

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around Tunbridge Wells

form a unique, family-friendly outdoor trail for

Why Poppy will never walk alone…

This month the team at Taylor Made Dreams tell us about a very special trip to Liverpool FC for one of their warriors Poppy - who is one of the football team’s biggest fans

Working with so many unique and creative young people, here at Taylor Made Dreams (TMD) we have such a wide variety of wishes that we try hard to achieve. From new tech such as VR goggles or the latest phone, to safaris and celebrity meetings; TMD Warriors have so many wonderful dreams and our mission is to bring them to fruition.

“As a huge Liverpool fan, TMD Warrior Poppy’s wish was to meet the Liverpool FC teamwe couldn’t believe how much she knew about them!

Sometimes for bigger wishes, we need to contact the amazing people we have met along our 10-year journey, to help arrange specific wishes. One of those people is our amazing patron John Bishop, who not only raises awareness for TMD, attends TMD events but helps us with wishes.

As a pillar of Liverpool, five years ago, John helped us to organise a magical trip for Bobbie-Jean to Anfield stadium. Five years later, we’re pleased to report that John has made another magical trip possible in 2025.

As a huge Liverpool fan, TMD Warrior Poppy’s wish was to meet the Liverpool FC team - we couldn’t believe how much she knew about them! Through John’s help,

we were able to arrange for the whole family to stay in Liverpool, meet the team at their training centre, have shirts and footballs signed. In short, everything to make the trip as special for Poppy and her family as possible.

“The trip to Liverpool FCs training ground was honestly the best day for everyone involved and it wouldn’t have been possible without Taylor-Made Dreams. It really was a once in a lifetime experience and we all smiled all day especially the kids,” explains Poppy’s dad Jordan.

“We virtually met the whole team as well as the manager and coaching staff.

Everyone was super kind to Poppy. They made her and her brother Jude feel extra special making a point to guide each player to Poppy and Jude before the rest of them. It was a day we will never forget.”

We’d like to extend a special thank you to our Volunteer Chair (of trustees), Barrie Williams, who accompanied the family to make sure they had everything they needed on their trip. Patrons, volunteers, donors and fundraisers all make wishes like this possible. Thank you to everyone involved for making this happen.

www.taylormadedreams.org.uk

TMD at Sea - Highlighting Two Fantastic Fundraisers

This summer we have two amazing swimmers, both swimming the Channel. Only around 4,000 people have swum across individually, so this is an incredibly impressive fundraising challenge. The swimmers taking on the challenge are Matthew Botterman and Clara Burton-Dowsett. They’re both hard at work training and fundraising, making an incredible difference by taking on this massive challenge.

“Sadly, our health and those of our loved ones is never guaranteed.

However, I cannot imagine how a charity could do more to help families at the most difficult of times,” states Matt.

While a member of Clara’s family adds: “After learning about the TMD organisation, Clara knew it was the perfect fit of her. She could relate deeply to the children they support, given her own life experiences, and saw it as an opportunity to help others while pursuing her own dream."

Please help by cheering them on all the way to France! You can keep up to date

with their journeys via the Taylor Made Dreams website: www.taylormadedreams.org.uk/news/tmdat-sea-matt-clara-swim-the-channel

It’s time for businesses to prioritise mental health

Following her profile piece in last month’s magazine, we are pleased to invite Jemma Graffin at Jem Coaching back to talk about the importance of wellbeing in the workplace. Read on to discover her thoughts on why our business community must do more to prioritise mental health…

When we talk about mental health, many people automatically think of conditions like anxiety, depression, or burnout. But mental health is so much more than that, t’s something we all have, just like physical health. At its core, mental health is about our emotional wellbeing, how we handle stress, connect with others, and navigate life’s ups and downs.

Our nervous system is constantly working to keep us safe and balanced. When we experience challenges whether it’s work pressures, financial worries, or personal struggles, our body reacts instinctively, activating our stress response. In short bursts, this response can be helpful, giving us the energy and focus we need to get through difficult situations. However, when stress becomes chronic, and we ignore how we are truly feeling, it can start to take a toll on both our mental and physical health. Too often, we push through, telling ourselves that we’re just tired, busy, or overwhelmed. We dismiss feelings of stress, frustration, or exhaustion as just ‘part of the job’. But when we ignore the early signs of emotional strain, it can build up over time, leading to more serious mental health challenges, from chronic stress and burnout to anxiety and depression. The key is noticing and addressing issues early, before they escalate.

WHICH INDUSTRIES ARE FACING THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES?

While mental health challenges affect employees in all industries, certain sectors are struggling more than others.

The construction sector has been grappling with alarming mental health statistics. According to data, 91% of UK construction workers have felt overwhelmed, with 26% having experienced suicidal thoughts.

The hospitality industry also faces significant mental health challenges. A study by the University of Cambridge revealed that the hospitality sector has the highest rates of common mental health problems, with around one in seven people in the workplace experiencing mental health issues. Additionally, more than half of all

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It’s so important for businesses to lead the way in creating a culture where mental health is acknowledged and supported

sickness absence days can be attributed to mental health conditions. Factors such as long, unsociable hours, job insecurity, and high-pressure environments.

The finance industry is not immune to mental health challenges. A 2018 survey by Aon Employee Benefits revealed that 62% of financial-sector firms reported an increase in mental-health-related illnesses in the workplace.

Additionally, a recent report highlighted that 17% of UK staff in the financial services sector exhibit severe signs of burnout, with the annual cost of poor mental health per employee in this sector being £5,379, more than double that of other sectors.

High-pressure environments, demanding targets, and long working hours contribute to these mental health challenges.

The legal sector is also grappling with significant mental health issues. A 2023 survey revealed that approximately 71% of nearly 3,000 lawyers surveyed reported experiencing anxiety, a 5% increase from the previous year.

Additionally, 83% of lawyers report feeling stressed regularly and 28% have experienced depression.

HOW ARE UK BUSINESSES RESPONDING?

Thankfully, more UK businesses are recognising the importance of workplace wellbeing and are taking steps to support employees before issues escalate. Many companies are offering employee assistance programmes (EAPs), providing confidential counselling, coaching and emotional support.

More businesses are also embracing flexible working arrangements to help employees manage stress and balance their personal and professional lives. However, one of the most impactful changes a company can make is to train Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) practitioners. Just like physical first aiders, these individuals are trained to recognise when someone is struggling, provide immediate support, and signpost them to professional help if needed.

BREAKING THE STIGMA & TAKING ACTION

Despite these positive steps, mental health stigma still exists. Too many employees feel they must hide how they’re really feeling, fearing they will be seen as weak or incapable. But the reality is, emotional health is something we all experience, it fluctuates just like physical health.

This is why it’s so important for businesses to lead the way in creating a culture where mental health is acknowledged and supported. When employees feel safe to talk about their struggles, they are more likely to seek help early, reducing long-term issues and improving overall workplace wellbeing.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

If you’re a business owner, HR professional, or team leader looking to take meaningful action, I invite you to join us for our CPD-accredited Mental Health First Aid Practitioner training on March 27 at Hotel du Vin, Tunbridge Wells. This training will give you the tools to support your team effectively, foster a healthier work environment, and be part of the movement towards a workplace where mental health is truly valued.

For more details or to book your place, get in touch jemma@jem-coaching.com

Little Olives Photography

That’s entertainment!

Antiques expert and TV presenter Mark Hill, who also runs his eponymous boutique in the Pantiles Arcade, tells us about why popular culture memorabilia is big business in his trade…

One of the biggest boom areas in my industry today is film, TV, and music memorabilia.

It’s a hugely diverse and thriving area that touches everyone on the planet, typically in a nostalgic way. After all, we all have a favourite film, TV series, actor, character or piece of music. It’s also highly visual, meaning the stuff you collect doesn’t just mean something to you, but it also looks great on display and always attracts eyes and kicks off conversations based on connection to the item.

Late last year, I was delighted to welcome Alex Jenkins to the team at Mark Hill Auctions. Not just because he’s a truly lovely guy, but also because of his incredible expertise in entertainment memorabilia. His second auction will happen on 22nd March this year, and I’m delighted to share with you three lots that caught my eye and imagination.

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Top of the tree in the memorabilia stakes are items that were used in a production, from props to costume and more

Although John Lennon’s 1966 quote “We’re more popular than Jesus now” caused great controversy, there probably isn’t a person on the planet who hasn’t heard of The Beatles. And most of them love their music, which truly deserves the description of legendary. Their look was almost just as important as their tunes, and the 1968 film ‘Yellow Submarine’ contributed enormously to that.

I’m a great fan of ‘ephemera’ - the term used for items that were produced in association with, or in commemoration of, an event but that weren’t necessarily meant to be kept. They’re truly ephemeral. Offered at £350-400 is a ticket to the invitation-only World Gala Premiere of the ‘Yellow Submarine’ film at the London Pavilion in Piccadilly Circus on Wednesday 17th July 1968. Tickets are rare in general, mainly as they were usually retained by event staff, or lost or thrown away after use. This example still retains strong colours, and fab artwork that echoes the eye-catching posters produced for the film

at the time. This one must have been kept as a souvenir by an ardent fan or cinema usher, as it’s been carefully folded down the middle. And Row C would have been right up close to all the colour and action! But if you want a piece of the film itself, you can. Top of the tree in the memorabilia stakes are items that were used in a production, from props to costume and more. Before digital processes took over, cartoon animation was painstakingly produced using stop-motion filming, with each scene divided up into single shots. Each shot was of a handpainted animation cel (short for celluloid) – so hundreds, if not thousands, were produced depending on the length and complexity of the desired result. Typically, these cels were discarded after use, or else stored away, with many degrading over time. Some survived, such as a hand painted cel of one of the iconic ‘Blue Meanies’, the music-hating antagonists in the film. Cels are highly desirable today, being collected by fans of a particular film and film historians. Estimated at £300-400 is a super psychedelic cel of a Blue Meanie hiding (badly!) in a rose bush. And there’s a personal link to Alex the auctioneer too – his uncle Charlie Jenkins worked on the team that developed the look of the Blue Meanies!

If The Beatles aren’t your style, how about something more gothic – Count Dracula. £200-300 will buy you a working script for the legendary 1968 Hammer Horror classic ‘Dracula Has Risen From the Grave’, starring Christopher Lee, who played the role of Dracula ten times. These scarce scripts were produced only for crew and actors and were working

scripts, hence the removeable butterfly clips which allowed for pages to be added or replaced. Rarely seen on the open market, this copy is complete and in great condition. So you can read it as a novel, or do ‘Sing-a-long-a-sound of Dracula’ karaoke style while watching the film. Now that’s show business!

The ‘20thC Lots’ entertainment memorabilia auction is on 22nd March 2025 – browse and bid via markhillauctions.com or EasyLiveAuction.com.

Visit:

The Pantiles Arcade at 49 Lower Walk, The Pantiles is open from Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am – 5pm. More details can be found at thepantilesarcade. com, or by calling 01892 322 777. To buy online, visit scottishantiques.com.

Valuations:

For valuations or to consign items for auction, email mark@markhillauctions. com or call 01892 574 310 to set up a free appointment.

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