TW Business Magazine April 2025

Jess Gibson, founder of the TN card, tells us how her business has evolved from high street scheme to essential corporate offering

Welcome

BUSINESS

EDITOR

Eileen Leahy

DESIGN MANAGER

Jason Stubbs

PHOTOGRAPHY

John Knight

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

Courtney Smith

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Robin Singer

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

George Percy

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Richard Moore

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Nick Moore

We are very excited to bring you this month’s edition of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine. Not only do we have a fabulous cover story for you – more of which later – but we also have lots of fascinating features on everything from how to preserve your personal wealth to optimising your inner voice to ensure successboth in business and life.

But back to our cover star the indomitable Jess Gibson, founder of the TN card. What she has achieved in just five short years is nothing short of hugely impressive. Not only has she encouraged us all to shop locally courtesy of her brilliant rewards scheme – which has now rolled out to most of the TN postcodes – she has supported West Kent Mind charity since day one and also extended her clever and inspiring initiative to many local companies too so their employees can benefit. All the while boosting the coffers of our cafes, shops, bars, venues and businesses too. And as if all that wasn’t impressive enough Jess is now running two key business awards events, celebrating the corporates and communities of both Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. Turn to page 28 to discover more about Jess and this incredible scheme we are so fortunate to have.

Elsewhere we bring you a roundup of all the local news you need to know, plus information on how and when to vote in this year’s local elections. We also have a special feature on how you can maintain

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

– and even improve upon – your personal wealth now that the new financial year is in full swing.

This time of year sees festival season start up once again so we are delighted to bring you news of the fourth Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival which sees the likes of poet Simon Armitage, actor Martin Clunes and TV presenter Richard Ayoade talk us through their new books alongside the always inspiring Sarah Raven who will discuss how gardening can aid our well-being. But that’s just the tip of the literary iceberg as there are so many other amazing names appearing on the bill.

This month also sees the return of the Hever Festival Theatre which, for 2025, will embark on its longest run yet. Shakespeare, tribute bands, comedy, kids’ puppetry shows and opera, there really is something for everyone!

Add to the mix a fantastic round up of this month’s best events, some fabulous food, style and interiors plus a don’t-miss travel and gardening section and you have all the elements for a perfect spring read.

Enjoy!

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.

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

Jess Gibson Founder, The TN card

Gary Brindley Founder, Step 3

Gemma Farina Managing Director, GFHR Consulting

Matthew Forbes Dip PFS, Director, Forbes Financial Ltd

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

Gary Valentine Managing Funeral Director & LAFD President

Poll suggests Reform will sweep   to power in county hall elections

By Richard Moore

The Tories face an uphill battle to hold on to overall control when voting takes place at the Kent County Council elections on May 1. One poll even suggests Reform will come out on top.

The first KCC elections were called in 1889 and the Conservatives have been in overall control of county hall since 1997.

“The

loss

of County Hall would be another blow for Tories having seen the Lib Dems sweep them from power on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council”

All 81 seats will be up for grabs –including six across Tunbridge Wells and the same number in Tonbridge and Malling. Currently Tories hold 57 with Labour 6, Lib Dems 6, Greens 5, Independents 4, Reform 2, Heritage 1.

Councillors are elected every four years with 41 seats needed for a majority.

A poll taken last month (March) by Electoral Calculus and involving 5,400 people suggests that Reform will seize control of County Hall. Lib Dems are expected to make gains while Labour may well lose some ground.

However, Tories dismiss the poll claiming

the findings are ‘out of date’ and do not reflect their own data that indicates a drift from Reform to the Conservatives.

On the national stage Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch has already warned that the party is facing an ‘extremely difficult’ challenge in the elections. She was also defiant in the face of Nigel Farage’s Reform Party telling voters to remember that politics is not ‘showbusiness’ and that they will have to ‘live with what you vote for’.

Lib Dems sweep them from power on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and replace a Conservative MP with a Lib Dem. Following resignations voting will also take place on May 1 for two seats on the borough council although the results will not change overall control.

The loss of County Hall would be another blow for Tories having seen the IF YOU DON’T VOTE  YOU CAN’T MOAN

Traditionally the turnout for county council elections is low - even though the impact on our daily lives of those elected is significant.

KCC is the largest local authority by population with 1,600,000 people as of 2023 mid-year. It oversees an annual spend of £2.2billion (excluding schools) with 41 per cent of that coming from your council tax.

Councillors have overall responsibility for public services such as education, transport, strategic planning, emergency services, public safety and waste disposal.

Polling stations will open from 7am to 10pm on May 1 and results will be made public Friday May 2.

For full details of candidates to vote for on May 1 - and for the full results of that vote search ELECTIONS at Tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Tmbc.gov.uk kent.gov.uk

Hendy Group to power local enterprise through sponsorship of Tunbridge Wells Business Show

Hendy Group has been confirmed as headline sponsor of the 2025 Tunbridge Wells Business Show, which will take place on 11 November at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells. The event helps raises awareness, encourage collaboration and generate leads for organisations located in Tunbridge Wells and across Kent and Sussex.

Attendees will be able to listen to a host of guest speakers and join panel discussions on trending business topics. Show attendees will also be able to visit Hendy at stand 22, where Hendy Tunbridge Wells will be showcasing their latest offerings.

Hendy has operated in the south of England for over 165 years, and it currently represents over 22 automotive brands at numerous locations across the

South Coast. Last month Hendy opened its newest state-of-the-art dealership on Kingstanding Way in Tunbridge Wells, adjacent to the retail park just off the A21, selling new and used cars from Ford, Mazda and Kia, as well as Ford

commercial vehicles.

“The Tunbridge Wells Business Show provides a great opportunity for businesses to raise awareness and build connections under one roof, and we’re proud to support the event so it can support even more organisations, large and small,” commented Paul Murrells, Regional Operational Director at Hendy Group. “We’re committed to this region and look forward to further developing our presence to help drive growth and create new jobs.”

Hendy Group is ranked in the top 20 listings of the UK’s biggest dealer groups with a 2024 turnover exceeding £1bn.

To find out more about the Tunbridge Wells Business Show, please visit: www.brilliantbusinesses.biz

How to protect your family’s financial future

JE BENNETT LAW

Protecting your family from financial difficulties isn’t just about having money to provide for the long term. It’s also about ensuring your loved ones are provided for should the worst happen.

When it comes to financial protection, the options can seem overwhelming. However, consulting a financial adviser can help you choose the right cover for your personal circumstances.

Life insurance

Life insurance pays out a lump sum on death, which could be used to pay off the mortgage and provide a cash buffer. The cost of the cover will depend on factors like your age and health.

If you have children or an outstanding mortgage, you should consider a life insurance policy. There are several different types of policy to choose from: whole of life insurance, level term insurance, and decreasing term insurance. An adviser can help you decide on the right one for you.

Income protection

Income protection can provide a tax-free income if you are unable to work because of an accident or illness.

You can choose when the payments start, such as six or 12 months, with longer deferral periods resulting in lower premiums.

Income protection can be particularly valuable for the selfemployed who do not have any cover through an employer.

You can choose from short-term cover to pay an income over one or two years and long-term cover to run until retirement, or when the policy ends, whichever is sooner.

Critical illness

Critical illness cover pays out a lump sum on diagnosis of critical illnesses covered by the policy, such as heart attack, stroke and cancer. The sum could be used to pay off debts, cover outgoings such as school fees, or to adapt living arrangements.

You might want to consider this cover if you don’t have enough savings to cover you if you were to become seriously ill, or you don’t have an employee benefits package.

Family income benefit

Instead of paying out a single lump sum, this policy provides a regular, tax-free income for a set period, such as 20 years. It’s considered a relatively inexpensive form of life cover.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance (PMI) will pay for the cost of private healthcare and could enable you to see a specialist more quickly than under the NHS. If you don’t have PMI through work, you can pay monthly or annual premiums for a policy.

We live and work local to you. We would be delighted to help you and your family achieve financial clarity and stability.

Graeme Hayden Investment Manager Divisional Director

E: graeme.hayden@brewin.co.uk

Evelyn Iriajen

Financial Planner Assistant Director E: evelyn.iriajen@brewin.co.uk

RBC Brewin Dolphin, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NU

T: 01892 739580

W: brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells

The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.

is

Long awaited Primark store set for   autumn opening creating extra jobs

By Jonathan Banks

Around 100 new jobs are in the pipeline for Tunbridge Wells with the opening of the new Primark store in the town centre this autumn.

One date being mentioned is early October although the retailer itself does not comment on speculation.

Job listings have not yet been published and Primark has offered no public comment on numbers.

However, those numbers are expected to be in line with the 100 vacancies created when Primark opened a similar converted BHS unit in Salisbury in 2023.

New recruits included retail assistants, stockroom staff and visual merchandisers.

Primark has now submitted plans to the borough council, as part of normal procedure, for a new shopfront, signs, and rooftop equipment.

The new store will trade across two floors at the old BHS premises in Royal Victoria Place shopping centre with an entrance on the pedestrian precinct.

The council believes that the arrival of Primark ‘will create jobs and lead to a

significant increase in footfall, bringing economic benefits to the town and the wider borough’.

The shopping centre was bought by the council in 2023 and it hopes that where Primark leads, other bid brands will follow.

Primark is an international fashion retailer employing more than 80,000

Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings

by Darren Austin at Synergee

Since the introduction of interest relief restrictions on privately owned residential rental properties, it has become more common for these to be held via limited companies. There are benefits and disadvantages of corporate ownership and each situation needs individual review to determine the best course of action. One item to consider with corporate ownership is the Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED) legislation.

In essence, if a company owns one or more residential properties, where the value of any of the individual dwellings is more than £500k, a report is required to HMRC unless the company is exempt (mainly charitable companies). If a report is required, there may not be any tax liability as there are several reliefs available, the mains ones being that the dwellings are:

• Held by property rental businesses and let out to a third party on a commercial basis.

• Being redeveloped or held as stock for resale by a property developer.

The first consideration is whether you held any property on 1/4/25 that met the above £500k valuation criteria. This will be based on the property’s valuation at 1/4/22 if you acquired it before this date, or its cost if you acquired it on or after 2/4/22.

If you have such a property, the next Return required is for the year to 31/3/26, which must be submitted by 30/4/25 in order to avoid a penalty. If you meet one of the reliefs, all that is required is a report to state that A) You own such property or properties and B) It meets the criteria for the relief. The report is submitted online direct to HMRC. It is possible to authorise your accountant to submit this on your behalf.

If relief is not available, the annual tax for enveloped dwellings starts at £4,450 for properties between £500k and £1m and climbs rapidly as the value increases.

If you do not have any such properties now but are planning to acquire one (relievable or not), a Return is required within 30 days of acquiring the property.

people across 17 countries in Europe and the US.

For many shoppers it offers trendy clothes at ‘astonishingly low prices’. Its business model encourages consumers to buy heaps of items, discard them after a few wears and then come back for another batch of new outfits.

is a

of

a firm of Chartered Accountants & business advisers based in Tunbridge Wells.

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

www.synergee.org.uk

Darren Austin

director

Synergee Limited,

COMING SOON Primark's hoardings are now visible on both floors of the Royal Victoria shopping centre

Tunbridge Wells MP and hospitality business owners join forces to tackle 'ruinous' business rates system

Mike Martin MP (pictured in blue shirt) recently met with a group of hospitality industry leaders in Tunbridge Wells. Together they have submitted a letter to government calling for fundamental changes to business rates, which they have described as a ruinous tax on investment.

Police urged to probe £40m  loss after business collapse

Tunbridge Wells MP Mike Martin is calling for a police investigation into the collapse of a local property business that triggered losses of £40million for about 150 people. It’s alleged the JVIP Group told clients they would receive more than 10 per cent on their investments. A number of companies linked to the group folded in 2022.

Kent police referred the matter to the City of London Police and Mike Martin is now urging them to take full responsibility for an investigation for possible fraudulent activity.

The issue relates, it’s understood, to the Government’s Bounce Back scheme set up to keep small businesses afloat during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Discount store set to open

Discount retailer B&M is opening a store in Tunbridge Wells on the site of the old Homebase on Linden Road near Sainsbury’s. B&M has more than 700 outlets nationally and sells homeware, electrical goods, furniture, DIY and gardening products. No opening date has been announced.

Brewer facing £2.6m increase

Britain’s oldest brewery, Shepherd Neame, is putting up prices following the rise in National Insurance and the minimum wage that kicked in this month (April). The Faversham based company has 290 pubs and says it is facing a £2.6million increase in costs. The company plans to ‘mitigate’ the majority of the extra costs over the next 18 months through price rises and savings. Shepherd Neame beers include Spitfire and Bishop’s Finger.

Curlers welcome at new rink

Tunbridge Wells Curling Rink in Dundale Road is back in business. It closed three years ago but after a major refurbishment – which included a new ice sheet - it has reopened. It is one of only two purpose built curling rinks in England. Owners hope to welcome a new generation of curlers who slide granite stones on ice.

Understanding a commercial lease break clause

By Imogen Fleur, Solicitor, Commercial Property, CooperBurnett LLP

A break clause is a provision in a lease whereby the landlord and/or the tenant has the right to end the lease contractual term early.  Break dates can be fixed, on a rolling basis, or dependent on specific events.  Strict break clause conditions are often imposed on tenants, as a landlord will not benefit from an empty premises.

Why parties may want a break clause:

A landlord may have future development plans for the premises or have granted a lease to a tenant when market rents were low and wish to grant a higher rental rate lease to another tenant.

The premises may no longer suit a tenant’s business needs or the tenant entered a lease when market rents were high and wishes to seek a lower rental rate lease.

Consider your notice:

Often six months’ notice on the other party is required, however this may vary.  Notice may need to be served in a prescribed way.  Check the agreed terms of your lease - you do not want the validity of the notice to be disputed.

Consider any conditions:

A tenant may be required to be up-to-date with all rent or all payments relating to the lease, to have complied with all tenant covenants and to provide vacant possession upon the break date.

Before entering a new commercial lease, it is important to obtain legal advice to understand the provisions of a break clause. If you are already in a commercial lease and wish to break your lease, seek legal advice as early as possible to ensure compliance with your break clause conditions.

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

Two steps forward...

FReading the economy is hard work at the moment, and often it’s a case of two steps forward, one step back. Here, 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 the outlook for the business community in West Kent

irstly, some great news. The Lower Thames Crossing has cleared another major hurdle after achieving high level planning permission to go-ahead. The proposed £9bn link is still not over the line as the Government has yet to confirm funding and the decision might still face a judicial review from opponents, but let’s be optimistic as it’s still two steps forward.

Recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, the planning bible, appear to be having an impact with new rules

Gatwick Airport – on our doorstep and a constant reminder in our skies – has also been backed by Government for a second runway, as long as it can put measures in place to reduce noise. The news is positive, but the airport’s owners still need to get planning permission, with

some MPs, residents, and local authorities strongly opposing the project.

Planning changes

It also looks like the Government’s changes to the planning regime – often described by companies as one of the

Image: Mike McBey

biggest factors holding back economic growth – and especially new homes, is moving forward.

The Green Belt – covering large swathes of West Kent – is in the crosshairs of ministers. Recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, the planning bible, appear to be having an impact with new rules, notably around the issue of Grey Belt. This is land that offers limited value in restricting urban sprawl, maintaining settlement separation, or preserving historic town settings within the Green Belt. Recent planning decisions suggest West Kent local authorities are taking a more pragmatic approach, especially for small scale development in their respective Green Belt, avoiding lengthy and costly planning appeals.

When it comes to taking one step back that’s arguably an issue that can also be laid at the feet of the Government, after it took the surprising decision not to fast track Kent to becoming a Mayoral Authority. Many commentators, myself included, thought Kent and Medway was a shoe-in for more powers. Instead, the residents of Kent will be asked to vote for the last time in Kent County Council elections on May 1.

Reorganisation still on agenda

Under the national reorganisation, the upper tier county councils and lower tier districts and boroughs will be replaced with Mayoral Authorities and under them a series of unitary councils.

In Kent we’re just getting the unitary councils, and a response has been submitted to ministers. This means the county lost out on a strategic single approach to improving skills and employment, and delivering housing and infrastructure. What the final map will look like is still to be decided as locally our leaders can’t agree on whether it’ll be three or four unitary councils covering Kent – we’ll know more in November. Surely the answer to that question has to be, whatever’s best for Kent – and that includes our business community. So here’s to more steps forward - and fewer steps back.

Pub talk pitfalls

Should you trust financial advice from your mate down the pub?

We have all met that person who somehow has the “magic solution” to Inheritance Tax. Unfortunately, many of the myths bandied around bars are little more than that, warns Richard Shearing, head of the Private Client team at JE Bennett Law.

Richard Shearing

There are some common myths about how to reduce your Inheritance Tax (IHT) bill that we often hear when we help our clients with estate planning. On the surface, they look like simple – and attractive – solutions. But, tax planning is highly complex, so if someone claims to have a magic wand to keep your estate out of the Chancellor’s hands, it’s worth treating their advice with caution.

“Just put your house in your kids’ names to avoid tax on it!” is a common fallacy. Simply transferring assets to someone else while continuing to use the assets yourself will lead to them being counted as part of your estate for IHT purposes, usually putting everyone in a worse position than if things had been left as they were.

“Just give everything away before you die!” is another trap. Each person can normally only gift up to £3,000 in any single tax year (to one person, or split between different people) before it becomes a Potentially Exempt Transfer (PET). After a PET, you have to survive seven years for it to drop out of your estate. There are some exceptions to this, but not many.

Even news outlets will gloss over the complications of IHT. Most articles about inheritance stories will fail to mention key facts, leading to misunderstandings about what the rules are or why an outcome came about.

Proper estate planning advice requires years of on-going, regulated training and education to provide solutions that are tried and tested, and based on full knowledge of the wideranging IHT rules. There is no substitute for an expert’s advice and, when the result of failing to get professional advice can cost your estate and family substantial sums in trying to sort everything out, it is hard to argue that it is not worth it.

At JE Bennett Law we are specialists in providing Estate Planning services – contact us to discuss your needs and we will create a solution that works for you and your loved ones.

JE Bennett Law is an industry leading firm based in Tunbridge Wells with a core expertise in the field of Court of Protection, helping and empowering people who find themselves in vulnerable circumstances. The firm’s growing Private Client work is built on the same culture of care and support.

Image: Jacqui Sadler

Kensington Scott Interiors is a family-run business based in Tonbridge’s Tannery Road Industrial Estate. Its Director Jamie Cutts tells us about the impressive progress the company has made over the past 15 years and reveals why this interiors business likes to do things differently…

TONBRIDGE BUSINESS PROFILE

So Jamie when and why was Kensington Scott Interiors founded?

Kensington Scott Interiors was founded in 2010 by my dad, Mark. He has been a kitchen fitter by trade for as long as I can remember, and during his career also ran plumbing and electrical teams. I spent my school holidays helping him out – I loved the whole process of seeing an amazing space come to life. When I left school he and I joined forces but we always knew we wanted to do things differently. One of the key visions we had was to avoid the ‘blame game’ that often goes on between trades. So instead we created a business that provided all the expertise required under one roof. We were also keen to be competitive with our prices. We negotiate with suppliers - or as we like to call them ‘partners’ - to ensure we commit to them by being loyal and generating turnover. Transparency is also important too.

How would you describe your business and what makes it unique?

We truly are a family run firm but even if you are not related to us we like to think of all our staff members being part of ‘the family.’ Of course we all strive for results and excellence – but if you want clients to feel the warmth and personal service of a ‘family run’ business, that has to be

engrained into your staff and the only way that happens is if they feel they are part of the family!

What do you enjoy about being based in Tonbridge?

It is a great location for us as we are 10 minutes down the road from Tunbridge Wells, and just off the A21

from Sevenoaks, Orpington and further afield. We also have good rail links. We like being part of the Tonbridge business community and believe that now, more than ever, clients want to support local. We have a responsibility to try and offer the best possible product and service. For example last week a client asked if there was one of our fitters nearby as they wanted some doors and kitchens adjusting. So we sent the fitter, over free of charge, despite the kitchen being fitted eight years ago!

Do you collaborate with any Tunbridge Wells based firms and if so, who?

We have been working closely with Scott Goss from The Beacon, hosting supper clubs at our HQ. We are always pushing the boundaries for food related content – we have even created our own YouTube channel - but there is something about having restaurant level food, locally

sourced and professionally cooked on the same appliances that clients can have in their own home, that you just can’t beat! In addition to this we are also plotting some exciting ideas with Kate from Home Edited. We will also be revealing details of a workshop in the showroom very soon.

What other plans do you have coming up for 2025?

I genuinely feel a new era of business and community is coming and I am really trying to help build a platform that benefits both local businesses and clients alike. The team at Kensington Scott Interiors have been working extremely hard behind the scenes for the last 18 months and we have plenty of exciting developments happening on the horizon. I love the idea of bringing something different to the market while also understanding each and everyone of our client’s needs.

For more information visit: www.kensingtonscott.co.uk

Magazine.pdf 1 01/04/2025 11:20:19

GRANTS FOR ECO BUSINESSES

Businesses in Tonbridge and Malling who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint can now apply for a green grant to support their work.

The Green Business Grant Scheme is an initiative delivering part of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s (TMBC) wider economic recovery and climate change strategies.

This grant is open to Tonbridge and Malling borough businesses that operate from commercial premises.

NEW ANGEL CENTRE SITE

Plans for a new state-of-the-art leisure centre in Tonbridge look set to take a major step forward.

A report to Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s cabinet on April 1 recommends that the new facility should be built on the Sovereign Way Mid Car park. The proposed site currently serves as the location for the monthly Tonbridge Farmers Market.

While the design of the new building is not confirmed, it is expected to be finished by 2028 and provide a wide range of facilities, including a gym, sports hall and community spaces.

The existing Angel Centre will remain open while the replacement is being constructed.

Barnes Lodge - Tunbridge Wells Business

Cancer charity launches a fundraising appeal as it looks to expand and move into new home

The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre is celebrating its 21st birthday this year and - as tradition dictates - is hoping to get its very own ‘key to the door’ with new and larger premises in the heart of Tunbridge Wells.

Named after the late local oncologist, Dr David Pickering, the drop-in centre provides a safe, friendly and homely space for anyone impacted by cancer, as well as their friends and family. It is entirely self-funding, run solely by volunteers and relies on donations to survive.

“We love our current home but, over these past few years, we have really outgrown it... we need more space for our visitors

Last year around 2,500 people turned to Pickering for help and support with therapists providing 1,000 treatments. And at Pickering everything is free of charge.

The charity originally opened its doors at the Homeopathic Hospital in Tunbridge Wells in November 2004 and moved into its current home in Monson Road in July 2007. While that building has provided ‘a warm and cosy hub’ for its visitors since then, now is the time for Pickering to ‘come of age’ and move to a centre that is larger and more suitable to the needs of its visitors, as well as being more accessible.

“We love our current home but, over these past few years, we have really outgrown it,” says Caroline McGibney, Centre Manager. “It would be wonderful to have more space for our visitors and dedicated offices for our team, as well as additional – and more accessible –

therapy rooms, so we can offer a wider variety of treatments.”

A new Centre will help the charity to enter its next stage of life on a firm footing. For this to become a reality and for its visitors – and their friends and family – to continue benefiting from the support Pickering provides, the charity has set a goal of raising £150,000 during 2025.

“At 21, now is the right time for us to come of age and make our next move,” says David Bartholomew, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. “The new centre will be paid for, in part, by the sale of our existing Monson Road premises but we need these additional funds to enable Pickering to move into a new centre and transform it into a welcoming home. We are grateful to anyone who feels they can support us with our ‘Key to the Door’ appeal.”

A new centre will enable Pickering to continue supporting visitors like Paul, who said recently: “This place is like a ‘great big cuddle’ when you really need it. And it’s not just the volunteers who support us; talking to other visitors makes a difference too. Everyone here is on their own personal journey but just sharing what we are going through together really helps.”

The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre will be holding a number of events in 2025 but is also encouraging the community to support the ‘Key to the Door’ appeal. To raise funds for the charity visit JustGiving: justgiving.com/campaign/keytothedoor

SEE NEXT PAGE:

POLLY RETIRES FROM PICKERING

“

“We

are grateful to anyone who feels they can support us with our ‘Key to the Door’ appeal” – Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre Chair David Bartholomew

UNIQUE CHARITY: Pickering is run entirely by volunteers like Vera Stanford (left) and Ruth Horn

Polly finally retires from Pickering but leaves behind a lasting legacy

AFTER 21 years at the helm of one of the best-known charities in Tunbridge Wells, Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, Polly Taylor has retired.

During those years she has helped tens of thousands of people whose lives have been touched by cancer.

In the process she was awarded the British Empire Medal while Pickering itself was handed the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service which is the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer groups and a major honour.

Speaking of her retirement Polly said: “It has been a hard decision but the right one. After 21 wonderful years and with my 80th birthday drawing near, plus with my health not very good right now, I think it is only fair to call it a day.

“Most days I find it a real struggle to get around which is why I need to stand back from it all and have made it clear I want to leave with as little fuss as possible. I need to put all my energy into celebrating my 80th.

“I know I will be leaving Pickering in the hands of an amazing team of volunteers at the centre. Working together they are more than capable of taking the charity on the next leg of its journey.”

Polly said she was leaving ‘with so many

happy memories’ and knowing the charity would ‘go from strength to strength’.

The Chair of the Board of Trustees David Bartholomew said: “Polly worked tirelessly to help others over all those 21 years and raised some £2mllion for the charity.

“She co-founded Pickering which is unique in that it is run entirely by volunteers who support those who dropin, and their families, totally free of any charges.

“There is no charity quite like Pickering. Polly might be retiring but she leaves behind a wonderful legacy that will hopefully go on to help tens of thousands of others in the coming years.

“Thanks to the great team of volunteers including therapists the centre in Monson Road will continue to operate as normal.“

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.

TOUCHING TRIBUTES PAID TO CO-FOUNDER

When news of Polly’s retirement was made public there was no shortage of personal messages to her on social media:

“Words cannot express what you mean to me and how grateful I am for the support given to me and my family over the years. I was in a very dark place the first time we met. You gave me strength, love and brought a calmness!”

“Thanks for all you do for all families going through tough times.”

“You have been an inspiration to so many, offering your love, time, wisdom and heart to those in need.”

“I still remember those days of recovering from chemotherapy and many days I visited the centre. The lovely smile of welcome and lovely hugs. Thank you.”

“I only met you a couple of times but those few conversations I had with you about the importance of positivity and sense of humour we share will forever be etched in my mind.”

“What a beautiful lady you are having touched the hearts of so many people in their darkest hour.”

“You will always hold a special part of my heart ... when I needed support you were there without question.”

Collective endeavour

Invest West Kent (a partnership of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Sevenoaks District Council, and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council) hosted the second West Kent Expo at the River Centre in Tonbridge on March 12. The Expo brought together 57 exhibitors and over 440 attendees who were able to network and attend free expert workshops delivered by Barclays, Yoyo Design, Westcoast Distributors AI, and Google.

The event was part funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and its sponsors included Baxall Construction, Biggin Hill Airport, Carbon3 and Thackray Williams. The event was delivered by Smarter

Society as part of the West Kent Business Support Programme, which has provided 100 West Kent Businesses with mentoring, over 60 grant awards, and has built a network of over 850 businesses.

According to a spokesperson for the organisation all the exhibitors at this year’s West Kent Expo said they’d exhibit again next year, and 89 percent of attendees said the event had benefited their business.

Invest West Kent is looking to deliver additional free 1-2-1 mentoring sessions, networking events and additional support in 2025/26, so if you are a local business then make sure to follow their page on LinkedIn to find out more and connect.

Photography by: Georgina Edwards

Photography by Key & Quill

forRecipesuccess

At the special invitation of Essence in the Pantiles' owners, esteemed Chef Atul Kochhar and Jitindar Singh, guests gathered to celebrate the popular restaurant's first year anniversary last month.

Already being dubbed as 'the party of the year' a Who’s Who of Tunbridge Wells’ finest patrons were treated to special cocktails, drinks, canapés and bowl foods during the evening courtesy of the Essence Team. Later on, guests had the opportunity to dance the night away thanks to the funky acoustic sounds from musician Gordon Webber.

"Oh what a night to remember," commented Bibi Roy on behalf of the Essence team as they marked their first year in business here in Tunbridge Wells. "Atul, Jeet and company have taken the colonnades by storm, cementing their reputation as one of the finest Pan-Indian restaurants in Kent. Here’s to many more years of success."

We believe selecting the right accountant and tax adviser is paramount to your financial success. To discuss how we can help your business flourish call

We believe selecting the right accountant and tax adviser is paramount to your financial success. To discuss how we can help your business flourish call us on 01892 311890 or email hello@createbalance.uk

or email hello@createbalance.uk

Professional approach

The fourth Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine Networking event took place at Quantum last month. The popular event, which is held quarterly, saw a host of the title’s advertisers, staff and supporters gather together to catch up over delicious canapes and drinks.

“Since we launched the magazine and associated Business Club almost a year ago membership has consistently increased and each event is now attended by over 60 regional business owners and Directors,” said JJL Media’s Nick Moore who founded the publication in early 2024.

“An important element of our growth strategy has always been to create a new community in the town across both magazines and events, where likeminded professionals can meet, network and promote their businesses to other relevant companies. We look forward to continuing to grow the community throughout the next year.”

Supporting you and

family 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.

Protection Planning – Ensuring that you and your loved ones are protected should the worst happen Retirement Planning – Making sure your pension is working hard to give you the retirement you deserve Savings and Investment Planning – Helping you to achieve your goals and aspirations through effective planning Estate Planning – Ensuring your legacy is passed to the right people

Matthew Forbes DipPFS Director

How to improve your personal wealth

With the start of the new financial year we ask some of our esteemed experts for their advice on how to ensure you can maintain and boost your personal wealth

Danielle Friend, Founder of Create Balance Accountants

As we all strive to build our careers or businesses we want to make sure we have something for later life, as in retirement, and also to pass on to our children and grandchildren.

We have our immediate wealth and our long term wealth and on occasion we may choose to forfeit the immediate for the long term, or you might just want to 'buy the car' because you just don't know what is around the corner!

First tip, is don't listen to Tiktok influencers - there is a lot of chat about 'passive income', 'property portfolios', 'bitcoin' and 'dealing apps' -  there is no silver bullet and you can lose. Also remember that Bitcoin is unregulated and not protected by FSCS.

“Have a really good relationship with your Independent Financial Advisor. Look at what you have at the moment, and then identify any gaps in funding

I am a Chartered Accountant, but I am not an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA), so the second tip is to have a really good relationship with your IFA who will look at where you want to be in later life. Look at what you have at the moment, and then identify any gaps in funding.  As with all improvements to personal wealth - if you have debt and the interest rates are high, i.e. credit card debt, consolidate it at a lower rate. Make sure you know when your mortgage is up for renewal, if you've been on a 5 year fixed, your next one could be a shock! Improving your wealth can be as simple as watching what you spend, overpaying your debt when you can and paying a bit more

into a pension! Utilise salary sacrifice schemes and if you have a business, you may be able to legitimately transfer some expenditure which comes out of your personal account into your business.  account.

As always, speak to a professional.  www.createbalance.uk

Nathan Blackmore, CEO at Way Trustees and The Finance Hub’s valued affiliate

Maintaining and growing private wealth goes hand in hand with thoughtful estate planning. A well-structured Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) form the essential foundations, ensuring your wishes are respected both during your lifetime and after death.

Lifetime Trusts can provide additional protection - minimising tax, avoiding probate delays, and keeping control within the family while also helping to preserve access to capital should you need to fund long-term care.

At the same time, keeping your capital actively working through diversified, tax-efficient investments ensures there's more to pass on. Just as important, is talk to your family! Open conversations that clarify your goals and expectations

can help turn inheritance into long-term stewardship, preserving both family wealth and values across generations. Managing your private wealth doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some straightforward tips to help you maintain and grow your assets. www.waytrustees.co.uk www.thefinancehub.money

Matthew Forbes, Director of Forbes Financial

1. Set Clear Goals: Identify what you want to achieve and more importantly whywhether it’s saving for retirement, a home, your children’s education or financial freedom. Clear goals guide your financial decisions, and your ‘why’ keeps you emotionally invested to keep on track.

2. Create a Budget: Track your income and expenses to see where your money goes. A solid budget helps you cut unnecessary costs and allocate funds toward your wealth-building goals.

3. Consider tax efficiency: often holding assets in your own name can lead to tax issues that can hinder overall

“

To maintain and improve private wealth requires an overall approach including having diversified investments, maximising tax efficiency and time

investment returns, and income and capital outcomes. Seeking professional guidance on how you hold your assets can help you optimise your tax strategy and ensure you keep more money in your pocket.

4. Diversify Investments: Spread your investments across different assets and classes like stocks, bonds, and cash and also regions of the globe to reduce risk and enhance potential returns.

5. Review your plans with a professional: Regular reviews will enable you to make adjustments and help keep you up to date with changes to keep you on track.

6. Build an Emergency Fund: Set aside three to six months worth of living expenses in a savings account for unexpected costs.

7. Seek Professional Advice: Don’t hesitate to consult with a professional financial advisor. Our expertise can

help you optimise your strategies and ultimately help create, grow and protect your wealth in your life time and for future generations.

www.forbesfinancial.co.uk

Gary

A

Jefferies, Chartered Financial Planner and founder of Panoramic Wealth

To maintain and improve private wealth requires an overall approach including having diversified investments, maximising tax efficiency and time.

Investments

Ideally investing money with no risk with the desired return would be utopia but it’s not usually possible. To ensure a steady return requires having a suitably diversified portfolio, living up to the adage of ‘not having your eggs in one basket’. That way you potentially maximise your return and reduce volatility.

Property

Property (other than your own home) is an asset class of either Commercial or Private. Additional property is something that people either love or hate but it does come with extra admin and potentially

hassle. As Mark Twain said “Buy Land, they’re not making it anymore.” This still holds true today…

Tax Efficiency

One of the musts to consider is maximising tax efficiency. This includes utilising pension contribution ideally at higher rate tax, ISA allowances and investments that shelter tax. For those with a higher risk appetite Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) and Enterprise Investment Schemes (EIS) both offer tax incentives and potentially higher returns but can be volatile and illiquid. (Not for the faint hearted).

Time in the market

Finally, the proven method of increasing one’s wealth is to remain in assets that appreciate over time. This will often be a time frame of over seven years or more so for those with a shorter time frame need to be very conscious of the investments they make.

Inheritance Tax Implications

For those who have built up wealth, many wish to pass this onto this to the next generation. The first port of call is a suitably drafted Will to reflect your wishes. With careful planning, passing assets over can be achieved using a combination of trusts and gifting assets. However, the last budget has for many greatly reduced the amount that can be inherited.

www.panoramicwealth.co.uk

“Success isn’t about burnout – it’s about living more”

Tunbridge Wells-based Leadership Coach Debbie Waite recalls her experience of speaking at The Big Festoon, the UK’s fastest-growing personal and professional development event…

Last month I was invited to talk at The Big Festoon. Created by motivational speaker and event producer Dani Wallace, it’s an event focused on ‘enthusiastic inclusion’ bringing people together across different backgrounds and lived experiences. As an ally and neurodivergent entrepreneur, I was excited when Dani asked me to take part. Inclusion means everything to me. I’ve always felt like an outsider, a bit different. But I believe our differences aren’t weaknesses and certainly should not be shamed, they’re our superpowers and need to be celebrated – loud and proud! Appearing alongside an array of different speakers including Forbes’ 30 under 30 entrepreneurs, US publicists, and sevenfigure business owners, my main aim when appearing at The Big Festoon was to challenge leaders to wake up, look in the mirror and redefine their own definition of success – beyond burnout, stress and sacrifice.

Bringing 25 years of expertise in leadership, human performance, and sustainable success, I’m a former HR Leader so I know only too well how people can effectively ruin their lives by only focusing on work.

As a qualified Leadership Coach, running my own business Stronger Inside and Out, I know that success isn’t about working harder, pushing and hustling more. It’s about knowing yourself, staying healthy from the inside out, and putting energy into the right people and places. Sustainable success is about living more!

Speaking on stage at The Big Festoon wasn’t just an event, it was the next step in my mission to transform the way

Speaking on stage at The Big Festoon wasn’t just an event, it was the next step in my mission to transform the way people live, lead and measure success

people live, lead and measure success.

I’ve dreamt of speaking on big stages for years. This wasn’t just about sharing my message, it was about proving to myself and others, that I belong on these stages. And now? Watch this space as I’m only just getting started!

ABOUT DEBBIE WAITE:

Based in Tunbridge Wells, Debbie regularly speaks at business, leadership and networking events across the region. Through her business Stronger Inside and Out she runs transformational programmes for self-development and personal growth and also hosts strategy events for ambitious professionals and teams. Debbie is also a keen supporter of the charity Taylor Made Dreams.

My business, Stronger Inside and Out, was born from burnout. While pregnant and striving to maintain my ‘senior status’ and credibility in the corporate world, I hit breaking point -physically, mentally, and emotionally. Now, I help leaders and business owners to keep growing and succeeding - without burning out and sacrificing their health, relationships, or happiness – courtesy of my Leadership Coaching.

I have already helped hundreds of leaders achieve long-term sustainable success through my transformational programmes, masterminds, workshops and events. Obviously my clients’ confidentiality is key but last year I made a commitment to myself to be more vocal, and share my knowledge and story in a way that positively impacts more people.

I’m excited to see where this is heading. My business is very purpose driven and so speaking at an event about selfempowerment, creating inner strength to get external results, and building a collaborative community was a perfect fit. From that stage, I shifted mindsets, inspired action, and helped people focus on their strengths rather than their struggles.”

Contact Debbie to find out how she can help you and your business

LinkedIn: @DebbieWaiteCoach www.strongerinsideandout.co.uk

Whether it’s for your car, home, farm or business, for quality insurance you can rely on, join us today.

Whether it’s for your car, home, farm or business, for quality insurance you can rely on, join us today.

Contact NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell at Tunbridge_Wells@nfumutual.co.uk or talk to us

Contact NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell at Tunbridge_Wells@nfumutual.co.uk or talk to us

01892 337488 | 55 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1XU 01580 878 105 | Clarks Yard, Flimwell, Kent TN5 7NG

01892 337488 | 55 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1XU 01580 878 105 | Clarks Yard, Flimwell, Kent TN5 7NG

“Supporting local businesses is more important now than ever”

In just five years Jess Gibson of the TN card has turned a simple idea on how we can all support local businesses, into one of the area’s most successful, inspiring and influential initiatives which boasts thousands of members and an ever-growing community. Here Jess tells Eileen Leahy more about the myriad benefits of being part of this scheme

So Jess, let's start at the beginning. Why did you launch the TN card?

The TN card was born out of a desire to support local businesses and build a stronger community. I wanted to create a loyalty card that made it easy for people to know what’s on our doorsteps and make it more affordable to shop locally – while providing our town centre independents with greater visibility and promotion, paid for by card holders. It started as a simple idea but over time it has evolved into something much bigger - it's now a vibrant community of members and businesses who want to make a difference together, using our spending power to make long term changes for our town.

Five years on the TN card has grown phenomenally in scale and reach. It not only offers consumers fantastic incentives but is now a compelling option for professionals and corporates. How has this happened?

In the beginning, my focus was encouraging shoppers to use our town centre independents but I realised that the TN card could play a much bigger role in the community by reaching out to everyone – not just locals but our corporates too. Employers are seeing the value in offering the TN card to their staff as part of their ESG initiatives, as it unlocks marketing, networking and cost-saving opportunities for them too. It

doesn’t just benefit their staff but benefits their business and community. The TN card has become a powerful way for people and businesses from all corners to work together for good.

Can you tell us about your background and what led to the creation of the TN card?

I have a corporate background in HR, marketing, and events, having worked in an investment bank throughout my twenties. After starting a family, I moved into freelance marketing consultancy, alongside running a parenting blog. It was through these roles that I connected with local businesses and developed a deep passion for supporting them. That love for local is what ultimately led me to launch the TN card.

“

I have a corporate background in HR, marketing, and events. After starting a family, I moved into freelance marketing consultancy locally and that is what ultimately led me to launch the TN card

What makes the TN card different from similar initiatives?

The TN card is unique because it was created with a genuine mission to help our community, rather than being driven by profit. It’s a business with heart - a personal passion project that puts local impact first - which I think explains why it’s succeeded where similar projects have failed. This focus on social impact was formally recognised in 2023 when the TN card was certified as a social enterprise by both Social Enterprise UK (SEUK) and People & Planet First, as it has annually since.

How did the TN card evolve from a reward card to so much more?

It grew quickly and organically as I listened to businesses and members. Launching just before the pandemic meant adapting fast, but being a small business myself I was able to pivot as needed. Flexibility continues to be important as the TN card meets our changing business landscape.

Originally covering just Tonbridge and

Tunbridge Wells, the TN card has grown geographically to include most of the TN postcodes, from Sevenoaks to Tenterden, and there are now 1,000 businesses in its directory with an exclusive offer for members. It also has a huge reach, with a vibrant and engaged member community, strong social media presence, a podcast series, member and community events, business networking, and more.

How does the TN card work for local businesses?

Though the TN card has changed over the last five years, its core principle

remains unchanged – that high street businesses are helped without paying a penny. Instead, I ask them to give members who use them a discount, gift or a little something extra, as a thank you for supporting local. The reward itself is their choice; it just needs to feel generous and be exclusive to the TN card, and if I don’t bring custom, they’ve not lost anything. My revenue comes from membership sales, which funds free marketing and support for high street businesses, including an app and website page, photography, social media promotion, press coverage, events, and more.

Non-high-street businesses are welcome to join the TN card too, with a small onboarding fee that helps towards maintaining the app. To promote real engagement, I also ask them to become TN card members (card holders) themselves, because supporting local starts with all of us.

“

Employers are seeing the value in offering the TN card to their staff as part of their ESG initiatives, as it unlocks marketing, networking and cost-saving opportunities too

Two years after launching, you transitioned to digital membership cards. How did this change things? Going digital was a game-changer. Not only did it reduce the TN card’s carbon footprint and ensured members had easy access to their membership card, it provided an innovative and engaging way for members to discover new local businesses through the iOS and Android app. From alerts to events listings and an interactive map, the app is key for helping members to stay engaged and informed on which businesses have joined the directory and how they thank members for supporting local. It has also meant that they can choose between paying monthly with no tie in, or annually.

The TN card: The Must-Have Resource for Local Employers

You’ve just launched an employer platform on the TN card website. What does this involve?

Yes, I’m really excited about this. The TN card is an impactful offering for our local employers, and it is potentially huge news for towns if workers are all incentivised to spend locally— just imagine the impact on our local economy if all our morning coffees were purchased at independents, for example. The development of an employer website has made it easy for employers to sign up as they can buy and manage staff memberships

encourage their employees to support local businesses while reaping the benefits themselves.

What are the costs for employers?

For four or more cards, it’s £16 each a year (usually £25), or £2 monthly. This second option is especially great for businesses where staff change frequently, as they only pay monthly for what they need.

When bringing any new product to market, education can be a challenge. It’s important to inform employers that while the TN card may sit with HR, it’s also relevant for marketing and procurement. When you buy the TN card, you not only help staff salaries go further, but you save money on business services, access business events and sponsorship opportunities, and tap into the TN card’s growing network. The TN card falls under “trivial benefits” too so there’s no tax

burden. It’s just a simple, new way to boost your business, keep staff engaged and make a difference locally.

You’ve just published an employer brochure. Why was this important?

You can have the best business in the world but without marketing, people won’t know about and understand it. The brochure helps to articulate the value of the TN card to local employers, as a simple, easy way to boost their business, keep staff engaged and make a difference locally. In ESG terms it can help businesses engage with their community, support other local businesses, and contribute to a thriving local economy. Financially it’s savvy too – at a time when businesses are feeling the pinch, it provides PR and marketing, networking, and discounted services from accountancy and insurance to photography.

Images by johnknightphotography.co.uk

What has been the biggest challenge for the TN card so far?

The biggest challenge is the hidden cost of maintaining and updating this bespoke app while the TN card is still relatively small, as costs can run to tens of thousands over a year. With over 1,000 businesses listed and various functionalities linking back to the website, the technology behind it is complex—but essential. This ongoing investment is key to keeping the TN card relevant and future proofed as consumer habits develop - but it also means I need a strong membership base now to sustain the TN card and ensure it’s here to stay.

“Originally covering just Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells, the TN card has grown geographically to include most of the TN postcodes, from Sevenoaks to Tenterden, and there are now 1,000 businesses in its directory with an exclusive offer for members

Can you give me some examples of participating businesses in your Tunbridge Wells Directory?

I wish I could mention everyone, but retail and hospitality partners include The Beacon, Club Quantum, Corkk, Hattons of Tunbridge Wells, KIKO, Kitch, Larratt Butchers, Maybugs, Mrs Florist, Old Auction House, Ruby’s of London, Sankey’s (fishmonger and restaurants), Thackeray’s, The Lodge, Stampede, The Warren, TN1 Bar & Kitchen and Whirligig Toys. And of course, Station Books, Fourteen Arrows and Palette Pizza, all of whom are in our Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine shoot pictures.

Alongside our independents, I have chosen a few national brands, where they’re either a franchise like Specsavers, or have a genuine focus on community, like COOK and Hotel du Vin. They help to entice new members, who in turn discover and visit our independents through the card.

The TN card directory goes beyond shops and retail though, doesn’t it?

Yes! The TN card quickly grew beyond the high street to include all small businesses. The health and wellbeing directory is huge and spans everyone from dentists and medical professionals to personal trainers, wellbeing practitioners and counsellors. One of my favourite health partners is Benenden Hospital, where members receive 10% discount on private treatments. There are also hundreds of hair salons and beauty businesses, makers and producers, trades and services such as independent garages, leisure partners and events in the scheme. I’m particularly proud to support our local theatres – for example, members enjoy discounted tickets to a large number of shows at Trinity each season.

Tell me about your professional services directory and its value to members.

The TN card’s professional services directory is an invaluable resource for local businesspeople. It includes a wide

Five years of championing Mind

As well as supporting local businesses in a variety of ways, you support West Kent Mind through fundraisers and by donating 10% of membership. Why?

Before launching the TN card, I was writing about the experience of raising sons and had connected with West Kent Mind to explore the topic of male mental health. As someone who has faced my own mental health challenges, it’s a subject that really resonates with me. Creating the TN card felt like a natural way to support the charity and make a meaningful difference to local people and families - perhaps even helping prevent a mother from experiencing the unimaginable loss of a son.

Supporting West Kent Mind is deeply personal to me, and I’m proud that the TN card can play a role - not just in fundraising, but in encouraging honest, open conversations about mental health.

range of business services - everything from PR and marketing to accountancy and insurance, merchandising guidance, photography and IT support. Unlike other local directories, each business in the TN card’s directory provides an exclusive offer for the TN card, so members make significant savings on top-tier professionals.

The TN card organises regular events for members. Was this always part of the vision?

Absolutely. The TN card is about community and personal connection. What makes our towns special is our independents, and what makes our independents special is the people and stories behind them. I want to connect members with the people behind our independent brands, which is why the TN card’s events, podcasts and social media features are important. Member events get locals visiting somewhere new, connecting with the owners, and hopefully being encouraged to revisit and telling friends and family. I love hosting events and seeing people together, sharing a love for local, is a special part of my job.

How did the TN card go from member events to business events?

The TN card’s Small Business Talks workshop series began because I wanted

LOCAL HERO: The TN card’s founder Jess Gibson has extended supporting local to business events including a talk series and the Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge Business Awards

to give a platform to experts in the TN card’s professional directory, while equipping and connecting small business owners in an evening setting. It provides structure too for business owners who may want to meet other businesses, but who struggle with the social aspect of networking events. Tickets are free for members, and we have a diverse and engaging range of speakers with plenty of practical takeaways.

Why did you launch the Tonbridge Business Awards and Tunbridge Wells Business Awards ?

In short this was as a further way to support local businesses. Having won awards myself, I know they have so many benefits – from exposure and PR to building credibility and trust. It’s also wonderful to have an occasion to bring everyone together to recognise individual achievements and celebrate what’s special about our business communities. I also felt there was a gap locally for business awards that were inclusive and affordable for businesses of all sizes, that really celebrated each town and raised money for its charities.

This year, The Tonbridge Business Awards will be held at EM Forster Theatre on June 26, while the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards moves to Assembly Hall Theatre on November 25.

What keeps you doing what you do?

Running a community-led business comes with plenty of challengesbalancing everyone’s needs is difficult, and I always feel I should be doing more. But I love the quote “Success is not just about making money. It’s about making a difference.” I focus on all the small differences the TN card is making to define its success. Seeing members connect with local businesses, hearing

how someone has discovered a local gem through the TN card, or getting feedback from a small business on how the card has helped them, is what keeps me focused and passionate.

And finally, why do you believe it is still so important to support local businesses?

Supporting local businesses is more important now than ever. Every time we choose to spend with an independent, we’re not just making a purchase—we’re investing in our community. We’re helping to sustain livelihoods, keeping our high streets vibrant, and preserving the unique character of our special towns. Through five years of the TN card, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know so many incredible business owners, and my love for local has only grown stronger. I really hope the TN card can continue to champion, showcase, and celebrate our independents for many years to come. The power of community is extraordinary, and when we come together as individuals and businesses to support local, we create something special indeed.

FOR MORE INFORMATION SEE: Website: www.thetncard.com

Socials: @thetncard

LinkedIn: @jess-gibson

Email: info@thetncard.com

Over-stretched resources and budgets, complex contracts, and regulation can make the management of soft services a constant uphill struggle. At Cohesion we do all the heavy-lifting for you. Taking the hard work off your shoulders, we’ll make sure you get the best service for your staff and pupils as well as saving you time, hassle and money.

We work with schools to provide cost effective service design, procurement and contract performance management in soft services including Catering, Cleaning, IT Services, Waste Management, M&E and Facilities Management. We partner subject matter experts to help monitor and manage energy usage and costs, develop practical carbon reduction strategies and reduce your environmental footprint.

How to ensure long-term cyber success for your business

In his regular column, Gary Brindley of Step 3, looks at the issue of website security and maintenance – and warns of the high price you’ll pay if you neglect it…

In today’s digital-first world, your website isn’t just an online presence - it’s a vital business asset. Yet, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) overlook regular maintenance, assuming that once a site is launched, the job is done. This misconception can lead to serious consequences, from security breaches to lost sales and reputational damage.

The Cost of Neglect

Keeping your website in top shape means regular updates, security scans, and performance tuning. If you ignore maintenance, here’s what could go wrong:

“Investing in website maintenance is far cheaper than dealing with a cyberattack, extended downtime, or lost customers

1. SECURITY RISKS & DATA LOSS

Hackers love outdated software. If you’re not keeping your site updated, you’re leaving the door wide open for cyberattacks. A single breach can expose sensitive customer data, leading to hefty fines under laws like GDPR - not to mention the loss of customer trust, which can be impossible to regain.

2. WEBSITE DOWNTIME & LOST REVENUE

A poorly maintained website is more likely to crash, slow down, or break important features. And customers won’t wait around - 53% of shoppers will abandon a site that takes more than three seconds to load. If your site is down or sluggish, potential customers will simply go elsewhere.

3. POOR USER EXPERIENCE & LOST CONVERSIONS

Broken links, missing images, and sluggish performance frustrate visitors, making them far less likely to engage or make a purchase. On the other hand, a well-maintained site creates a smooth, enjoyable experience that keeps people coming back.

4. LOWER SEARCH ENGINE RANKINGS

Google prioritises fast, secure, and updated websites. Neglecting maintenance can lead to outdated content, slow load speeds, and security vulnerabilities - all of which hurt your SEO rankings. Drop in rankings = fewer visitors = lost business.

Essential Website Maintenance Tasks

To keep your site secure and performing at its best, businesses should implement a solid maintenance plan that includes:

• Regular Software & Security Updates

– Keep your CMS, plugins, and themes updated to patch vulnerabilities.

• Performance Optimisation – Monitor site speed and optimise databases, caching, and images for fast loading times.

• Backups & Recovery Plans – Set up automatic backups so you can restore your site quickly if anything goes wrong.

• Security Audits – Run malware scans, use firewalls, and enforce strong passwords to keep threats at bay.

• Broken Link & Error Checks – Identify and fix 404 errors and broken links to improve user experience and SEO.

The Cost of Ignoring Maintenance

Investing in website maintenance is far cheaper than dealing with a cyberattack, extended downtime, or lost customers. A well-maintained site boosts credibility, enhances conversions, and keeps customers happy.

For businesses that want to stay competitive online, website security and maintenance aren’t optional - they’re essential. Don’t wait for something to go wrong. Take action today to protect your business and ensure long-term success. If this all sounds like way too much to take on, there are many local businesses offering services that take this headache away from you.

Gary Brindley, Step3 Digital

e: gary.brindley@step3.digital w: step3.digital

t: 01732 445688

jemma@jemcoaching.com

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The stage is set

The Hever Festival Theatre returns for its longest season yet, running from April to December. Eileen Leahy meets its Artistic Director Ailsa Molyneux to discover what this year’s programme entails…

Where will you find a fast paced Elizabethan comedy, a Summer of Love silent disco, a fun kids’ puppet show, The Three Musketeers and tributes to Queen’s Freddie Mercury and country legend Dolly Parton all on the same bill? Why the Hever’s Festival Theatre of course!

Back for its 44th year, the popular event boasts all of the above – and so much more during the course of its extended run for 2025.

For the first time in its history the festival will, which runs both daytime and evening events, run from April until December and there’s plenty for audiences of all ages to sit back and enjoy over the next few months.

“This year will be the longest season we have ever done,” states the festival’s Artistic Director Ailsa Molyneux when we meet to talk about what’s in store for fans of live theatre, music, dance, opera, jazz, family fun and history.

“Traditionally our season has always started in May but this year we’re opening for the Easter holidays which is very exciting,” continues Ailsa. “So far we have had an Abba Reunion tribute, a Shoe Baby puppetry show and That Knave, Raleigh a history play - all which have been very well received.

“Throughout the season there will be plenty of other treats in our calendar of events which runs between now and the summer months before we take a short break and are back for the Autumn, and finally Christmas.”

Ailsa tells me that last year she and

her team ran a series of events post the summer in order to test the waters to see if more seasonal shows was something audiences wanted.

“It turns out that yes indeed they did! The Christmas events we put on were held at the castle and were just magical. So it made sense to run these again.”

Although Ailsa and her team are busy curating the programme for the latter part of this year, what she can tell me is that legendary singer Paul Young will

“Whatever time of year you come to the Festival Theatre at Hever you and your friends and family are guaranteed a great time

close the Autumn series of shows and rather excitingly there will be two special satellite venues putting on performances in addition to the Festival Theatre.

“We will be working with Chiddingstone Castle again and also have a new event happening at Penshurst Place. I can honestly say that I don’t think audiences will have ever seen the likes of what we’re putting on there in Kent before. We are very excited about to bring this Glow Festival spectacle to our audience.”

The event takes place at the stately home on June 28 and will be a ‘completely immersive and exclusive experience’.

Ailsa tells me she is always on the lookout for new and adventurous

performances to include in the Hever Festival Theatre programme but she knows that having a few firm favourites in the mix is always a good idea.

“As any regular visitors to us will know there is always a sprinkling of some old favourites such as our Motown tributes, Shakespeare plays, the Proms and performances by Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.”

But this year – as a total one off – there will be no shows at the Hever Festival Theatre during the month of August which is why they are moving to the two aforementioned sites for some of the shows.

“We finish part-way through July at Hever and we’re back there in September,” explains Ailsa who says normal service will resume for 2026 and beyond.

When curating the calendar of events for the Hever Festival Theatre every year, Ailsa says she is always looking for something that she – and certainly the event’s loyal audiences – have not seen before.

“I also work with a lot of artists who we continually build relationships with. They are friends of the festival and know what we are after and they want to produce something that they are proud of for our audiences. I see a lot of work and talk to lots of people and always want to put new things in the programme, as well as retaining the popular hallmarks we are known for.”

Ailsa will travel all over the country doing this and says that she will never book anything that her and her team have never seen.

“I want people to know this but to also realise that it’s not just light entertainment. We also host serious plays, historical pieces and comedies. We want to be recognised for that part of the curation as well as the tribute acts and musicals.”

What would Ailsa say is an additional bonus to accessing some of the best live shows on our doorstep?

“I would say that whatever time of year you come to the Festival Theatre at Hever you and your friends and family are guaranteed a great time. In the summer, bring a picnic and relax on the lawn or during the winter get into the seasonal spirit in this very special historic place. There is so much to enjoy here.”

To book tickets and for more information visit: www.heverfestival.co.uk

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Celebrating our business community

Jess Gibson of the TN card reveals the judging panel and headline sponsor for this year’s Tonbridge Business Awards which is currently still open to entries

The Tonbridge Business Awards return for their second year on June 26, celebrating the outstanding businesses and people that contribute to the town’s economy and community. Organised by Jess Gibson of the TN card, the awards acknowledge businesses across various sectors, from innovative startups to longestablished enterprises making a difference. This year’s event has received a major boost with the announcement of Charity Bank as its headline sponsor. Known for its ethical approach to banking, Charity Bank provides financial support to charities and social enterprises that create positive social impact. Their

“This year’s event has received a major boost with the announcement of Charity Bank as its headline sponsor

involvement in the awards reflects their commitment to supporting local businesses that prioritise sustainability, social responsibility, and innovation. By partnering with the Tonbridge Business Awards, Charity Bank further demonstrates its dedication to championing businesses that balance profit with purpose.

Ed Siegel, CEO of Charity Bank, shared his enthusiasm for the sponsorship: “We are delighted to support the Tonbridge Business Awards 2025. These awards celebrate businesses that are not just

successful but also committed to their communities. At Charity Bank, we believe in supporting organisations that make a difference, and we look forward to honouring the inspiring businesses in Tonbridge.”

Alongside Charity Bank, a large number of local businesses and organisations are generously supporting the Tonbridge Business Awards 2025 as sponsors. These include Tonbridge School (venue), Berry & Lamberts Solicitors (film), Longridge Print (print), Inkerman London (awards), Odyssey Events (entertainment), Brilliant Businesses (podcast), and GM Valentine Family Funeral Directors and Invest West Kent (drinks). Category sponsors include Benenden Hospital, CHS Networks IT Support Tonbridge and RankFresh.

Key Information:

• Entries close: 6th May 2025

• Awards date: 26th June 2025

• Awards venue: EM Forster Theatre, Tonbridge

For more information on the awards, including how to enter, visit: www.tonbridgebusinessawards.uk

Meet the Judges of the Tonbridge Business Awards 2025

Jess has assembled a distinguished panel of judges to assess this year’s entries. Their combined experience across business, media, law, education, and economic development ensures a wellrounded evaluation process.

Jeremy Whittaker – Economic Regeneration Manager, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council

Jeremy plays a crucial role in shaping economic policies and business development strategies in Tonbridge & Malling. With a background in town planning and regeneration, he leads initiatives that support local businesses, create employment opportunities, and drive investment into the region. His insight into economic growth and sustainability makes him a valuable judge for the awards.

Dawn Blee – CEO, Sevenoaks District Chamber of Commerce

Dawn became CEO of Sevenoaks District Chamber of Commerce in 2021 and led its expansion to include Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells in 2023. She has a diverse career background, including working as a Human Resources Director

for an international hotel company, running her own business as a sole trader, supporting her husband’s company, and working with Sevenoaks District Council. Her broad experience in business development, operations, and community engagement makes her a key advocate for local enterprises.

Will May – Chief Operating Officer, Tonbridge School

Will joined Tonbridge School as the Chief Operating Officer last summer. He is an experienced senior executive with commercial, operations and project management expertise gained from working for the UK government as Commercial Director at the Cabinet Office and HM Treasury and across various industries in the private sector globally. Will brings valuable insights into leadership, financial management, and operational excellence.

Joseph Oates – Partner, CooperBurnett LLP

CooperBurnett alongside Victoria Sampson. Joseph is Head of the firm’s Contentious department. He has a thorough understanding of insolvency law and practice; and has been a licensed insolvency practitioner since 2012.  As a trained mediator, he adopts a commercial and straightforward approach to resolving disputes. He also advises on all aspects of contentious employment law, including settlement agreements. Joseph is on the board of Royal Tunbridge Wells Together Business Improvement District (BID).

Eileen Leahy – Editor, Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine

Joseph joined the law firm CooperBurnett LLP in 1999. He has been managing the firm since 2002 and today co-leads

Eileen is an experienced journalist who has worked in the media industry for over two decades, covering both national and local platforms. Through Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine and previously as Editor of SO Magazine and Times of Tunbridge Wells, she has spent many years supporting and championing local businesses and entrepreneurs, helping to raise the profile of the region's thriving business community. Eileen’s keen editorial eye and storytelling expertise bring a unique perspective to the judging panel.

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Leading law firm Thackray Williams pioneers new management structure

Emma Thompson, Vikki Herbert and Anthony Macey have taken over the joint leadership of Thackray Williams. It is thought to be the first time that a law firm has had three Managing Partners.

They are each taking responsibility for different areas of the business. Emma Thompson, who heads the Commercial Group, is leading on technology, business development, strategic recruitment and

The primary focus of the three new Managing Partners is to continue the firm’s growth trajectory “

people projects. Vikki Herbert, who heads the Real Estate sector, is responsible for business development, risk, compliance and client service. Anthony Macey, who heads the Private Wealth sector, is overseeing the firm’s financial operations, performance and business analysis. They will all continue reduced levels of fee-earning work in their respective areas. They will each be based at different offices; Vikki Herbert in Sevenoaks, Anthony Macey in the City, London office, and Emma Thompson in Bromley. They have taken over from outgoing

Managing Partner Sean Sanders, who will be returning to the discipline which he qualified in (real estate and residential conveyancing) and will lead Thackray Williams’ West Wickham office.

The change in leadership follows Emma Thompson being given the Growth Award title at the Kent Women in Business Awards 2025. Emma has led her team to achieve 46% year-on-year growth in turnover for the first six months of 2024-

25 – an acceleration of the 27% growth achieved over the previous three financial years.

Thackray Williams is on track to become a top 200 law firm. The primary focus of the three new Managing Partners is to continue the firm’s growth trajectory, achieved through refocusing on corporate and commercial work and strengthening the firm’s offering by sectors.

thackraywilliams.com

Local solicitor completes her tenure as Kent JLD President

Imogen Fleur, a Solicitor in the Commercial Property team at CooperBurnett LLP, has stepped down from three years serving on the committee of the Kent Junior Lawyers Division (JLD), two years of those as its President.

Imogen’s achievements over that time include organising a number of sell-out events; expanding the membership, including reaching students at the University of Kent; supporting professional development for junior lawyers; building membership numbers; holding the Achievement Awards at the Tunbridge Wells & Tonbridge District Law Society’s Annual Dinner; and supporting local charities including foodbank Nourish, Folly Wildlife Rescue and West Kent Mind.  Kent JLD – which is supported by The

“It has been an honour to be on the Committee for the last three years and I am so grateful for all the opportunities and people I have met throughout this time

Law Society of England and Wales - holds events designed to assist the professional development of junior members of the legal profession in a sociable and enjoyable way. It also provides an opportunity for junior lawyers to build their professional network.

“It has been an honour to be on the Committee for the last three years and I am so grateful for all the opportunities and people I have met throughout this time and to have watched the JLD grow,” says Imogen. “The Kent JLD is in great hands with the newly elected CoPresidents Jordan Ismail and Jonathan Laws, both trainee solicitors at Rix & Kay, and I am excited to see what the new committee gets up to.” cooperburnett.com

Photograph: David Bartholomew

Cripps wins Law Firm of the Year at LexisNexis Awards

Top 100 law firm Cripps has won Law Firm of the Year at the 2025 LexisNexis Legal Awards.

This prestigious award recognises outstanding legal excellence and ingenuity, distinguishing Cripps, which has its HQ in Tunbridge Wells, as an industry leader in today’s market.

The LexisNexis Legal Awards are known for honouring firms that demonstrate exceptional performance and innovation in the legal sector. This recognition is testament to the clear purpose, vision and strategy the firm has developed, further establishing its position as a leader in the legal industry.

As well as achieving B Corp status and investing heavily in its people strategy, Cripps has also continued to embrace new technologies, and this award acknowledges the significant impact of its advancements over the past year in improving client service through technology.

Mike Scott, senior partner at Cripps, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive

“

This award is testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire Cripps team and reflects our commitment to excellence

this award. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team and reflects our commitment to excellence and our unwavering focus on making a positive and lasting difference for our clients, our people, our community and our planet.” cripps.co.uk

Supporting business growth through collaboration

Gillian Palmer, founder of The Finance Hub, tells us all about the new venture her business has set up with the Loch Associates Group

“I am pleased to tell readers of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine about the special partnership my business The Finance Hub has created with one of the area’s leading law and HR firms,” smiles Gillian Palmer of The Finance Hub.

“Working alongside Loch Associates Group our two companies aim to bring together exceptional financial, legal, HR and dispute resolution expertise all under one roof to help business owners achieve their growth goals.”

“This collaboration offers clients access to an integrated team of experts who can support every stage of a business's growth journey

She goes on to say that The Finance Hub is renowned for connecting businesses with tailored financial solutions through a network of trusted Affiliate partners. And now it has extended its services by joining forces with Loch Associates Group.

“We are delighted to be able to add to Loch Associates’ offering. Already they provide a full spectrum of legal and HR services, including employment, business and immigration law, HR, training and wellbeing, coaching and mediation expertise.

“And now our involvement will offers clients access to an integrated team of experts who can support every stage of a business’s growth journey. Whether it’s securing funding for an acquisition, ensuring legal compliance, or managing a growing team, clients will benefit from a

seamless experience and comprehensive support.

“This collaboration is about creating a space where business owners can connect with the right advisors, ensuring they get access to the best expertise to allow them to make informed decisions at crucial stages of business development,” continues Gillian.

The two businesses will now share office space in London’s Belgravia at 25 Eccleston Place.

“This is a win-win for The Finance Hub as it can now establish its presence in the capital and ensure that clients in and around London have easy access to the same high-quality services already available in our offices in Tunbridge Wells and Canterbury.

“Our new London office offers a welcoming environment where entrepreneurs can find the support they need, whether they’re securing finance, managing legal complexities, or growing their teams and need HR support.”

Joe Milner, Partner and Solicitor Advocate

at Loch Associates Group adds: “When a business seeks finance, it’s usually due to planned growth. Our collaboration with The Finance Hub ensures that businesses not only get the financial support they need but also the legal and HR advice to grow sustainably.”

www.thefinancehub.money

Joe Milner

Gillian Palmer

25 Eccleston Place

“Good HR is about balancing compliance with compassion”

In her column for this month, Gemma Farina, founder of the award-winning independent human resources agency GFHR Consulting, discusses what April 2025’s Employment Law changes mean for your business and looks at how Neurodivergent Employees can be supported in the workplace…

As we head into the new financial year, UK employers need to be ready for some key employment law changes coming into effect. And while they may seem small on the surface, they could have a significant impact on how you manage and support your team.

With effect from April 1, the National Minimum Wage increased by 6.7% to £12.21 for those aged 21 and over. That’s a noticeable jump, especially for businesses with large numbers of lower-paid or younger staff. It also makes it difficult for small businesses who are trying to manage the differential between pay levels. If you haven’t already now is the time to review pay structures, budgets and overall reward strategies, to ensure you remain competitive in the market.

April 6 also saw increases to the statutory pay rates – including sick pay and family-related leave (like maternity and paternity). These are increasing slightly, so it’s a good idea to check your payroll systems are up to date and that managers understand the changes when speaking to employees.

However the most significant change that has happened this April is the introduction of Neonatal Care Leave which took effect on April 6. Under this new entitlement, parents whose babies require hospital care within the first 28 days of life will be eligible for up to 12 weeks of paid leave, in addition to other statutory entitlements like maternity or paternity leave. The leave applies from day one of employment – with statutory pay available to those with 26 weeks’ service and earnings above the lower limit.

This is a significant and compassionate step forward, offering much-needed support to parents at an incredibly stressful time. But it also means employers need to take action to ensure employees feel supported, should they be in this situation.

It is important to take time to review your family leave policies and ensure your managers understand the new rights, so they can respond confidently and sensitively if the situation arises. It’s also worth thinking about how you’ll manage cover during longer absences and what

At GFHR Consulting, we’re here to help you navigate any changes with confidence – whether that’s updating your policies, training your team, or just having someone to talk through your options

support you can offer employees returning to work after such a difficult period.

At GFHR Consulting, we’re here to help you navigate these changes with confidence – whether that’s updating your policies, training your team, or just having someone to talk through your options. As ever, good HR is about balancing compliance with compassion – and this year’s changes are a real reminder of that.

SUPPORTING NEURODIVERSE

EMPLOYEES: SMALL STEPS, BIG

IMPACT

World Autism Awareness Day took place on April 2, so now is a good opportunity for employers to look at ways they can support Neurodivergent Employees in the workplace.

Neurodivergent individuals – including those with ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and autism – experience and interact with the world in ways that differ from those who would consider themselves Neurotypical. But different doesn’t mean less capable. In fact, neurodivergent employees often bring unique strengths like creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and fresh perspectives.

The key is creating an environment where everyone feels they can thrive. That starts with understanding. Not everyone will feel comfortable disclosing their neurodivergence – and they’re not legally required to. But when someone does choose to share, employers have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments to support them. Adjustments could be as simple as offering written instructions alongside verbal ones, allowing flexible hours, or making sure there’s a quiet space available to work. Listening is essential –ask what someone needs to work at their best, rather than focusing on labels or diagnoses.

It’s also worth reviewing how inclusive your recruitment, onboarding and performance management processes are. Aim to build a culture where neurodiversity is understood and respected – not something people feel they have to hide.

Supporting neurodivergent employees isn’t just about compliance. It’s about recognising that we all work differently.

If you’re unsure where to begin, creating a clear policy on neurodivergence or embedding it into your Diversity, Equality and Inclusion approach is a great first step. Alternatively, please give us a call and we would be happy to talk through what you can do and support you to create these policies.

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

It's a family affair…

Meet Bernard and Ruben the father and son duo who run Poxy Jobs and are encouraging more young people to take up a trade...

In a world where university degrees often take centre stage, the importance of skilled trades is sometimes overlooked. Yet, the backbone of any thriving community is built by professionals—plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and mechanics— who keep our homes and businesses running smoothly.

This truth is deeply understood by Bernard and Ruben, a father-and-son duo in Tunbridge Wells who embody the tradition of passing down skills through generations with their firm, Poxy Jobs. Bernard, a master technician with over three decades of experience, built a reputation for high-quality project management, building, and consultancy work in Sevenoaks with BDP Building Services. His son Ruben, having grown up watching his father work, decided to follow in his footsteps rather than take the conventional university route.

“I’ve always admired my dad’s work,” Ruben shares. “There’s something really rewarding about creating something with your own hands. While I stayed on at school to do A-Levels, a degree never appealed to me as much as learning a trade directly from my dad.”

Where Are All the Apprentices?

Ruben’s choice is becoming increasingly rare. Across the UK, there is a growing

“

Ruben’s

journey serves as an inspiring example of how skilled trades offer more than just a job—they provide a fulfilling career

shortage of skilled tradespeople. Many young people are encouraged to pursue academic routes, while vocational training is often undervalued. Yet, skilled trades offer stable, rewarding careers, and professionals in these fields are more in demand than ever.

As older tradesmen retire, fewer young people are stepping in to fill the gap. This creates delays in essential services, drives up costs, and makes it harder for businesses and homeowners to find reliable professionals. Bernard has seen this shift firsthand.

“When I started, there were so many apprentices eager to learn,” he says. “Now, it’s tough finding young people who want to pick up the tools. But those who do, like Ruben, have incredible opportunities.”

Poxy Jobs Loves the Jobs You Hate!

Finding reliable tradespeople can be a challenge for both businesses and homeowners in Tunbridge Wells. Whether it’s a leaky tap in a café, an office in need of rewiring, or a home requiring a fresh coat of paint, getting the right person for the job isn’t always easy. That’s how PoxyJobs.com came to be!

PoxyJobs.com connects businesses and homeowners in Tunbridge Wells with skilled, trusted tradespeople who are ready to tackle the tasks you'd rather avoid. Whether it’s carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, decorating, or general maintenance, our professionals handle everything from routine repairs to largescale renovations. Need a garden office renovation or a handyman for those pesky odd jobs? No job is too big or too small! PoxyJobs.com takes the hassle out of hiring because, let’s face it, “We Love the Jobs You Hate!”

“Too often, people put off jobs because they don’t know where to find someone they can trust, they don’t have the skills, or they just don’t have the time or the inclination!” says Bernard. “PoxyJobs. com makes it easy for businesses and homeowners to get their poxy jobs done properly.”

Encouraging the Next Generation

Ruben’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how skilled trades offer more than just a job—they provide a fulfilling career. By following in his father’s footsteps, he is preserving a tradition of craftsmanship that is crucial to the local economy.

If you're a skilled worker looking for more opportunities or a business in need of reliable tradespeople, visit www.poxyjobs. com today. Let’s support and celebrate the people who build, fix, and maintain the world around us—one trade at a time. www.poxyjobs.com

How our hospitality and retail landscapes are being enhanced

In his column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID, gives an update on the organisation’s inaugural major public realm project for the town…

The townscape of where we live is important for residents, visitors and businesses alike. We are therefore proud to have recently installed the inaugural project of our large annual public realm project in Royal Tunbridge Wells High Street. During our next five-year term there will be four more projects unveiled and installed so watch this space…

Building on previous phases installed in 2021/2022 over Covid, to provide a greater pedestrian space, using local contractors Cheesmur, we have installed three decking structures across the road bringing the extended pedestrian environment level with the pavement.

The system supplied by Rafft is a modular system that offers full flexibility for adjustment and potential change/ modification also includes replacing the temporary wooden planters with new heavy duty black powder coated steel planters built directly into the structure, creating a safer and more permanent and professional look.

The bollards in these areas are being removed to open up the space more and we are working collaboratively with the businesses on the street on planting and branded barrier system opportunities to maximise the positive impact for them and create a shared positive look, which should encourage people to come out into town, and feel pride in the area we live and work.

“This £100k public realm project, co-funded by RTW Together and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, is a great demonstration of partnership to deliver cost effective delivery for the town

The £100k project, co-funded by RTW Together and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (via Shared Prosperity Funds), is a great demonstration of partnership to deliver cost effective delivery for the town. The enhancements delivered should benefit hospitality venues through an outdoor continental café culture (which has sped up since Covid-19) but also benefits retailers (ever more important with the prevalence of online shopping) as customer’s overall shopping experience is enhanced.

Particular thanks must also go to Christ Church who very, very kindly assisted with temporary storage for the almost 40 pallets worth of supplies! We are also pleased to report the previously

and planters, have been retained off site so that we can find an alternative use to repurpose them elsewhere in the town, as part of our sustainable approach to activity.

RTW Together has begun working again with the designers of the High Street scheme, Architects KanerOlette, on its project for 2025-2026. Currently at the research, concept and early consultation stage, the project for Calverley Precinct and Fiveways in the centre of the town, has an opportunity to deliver extensive benefits!

After much design work, consultation and customisations to maximise the benefit, we are excited to have delivered this project and hope the community is as pleased with the project as we are.

Next, we are looking forward to our BID members seeing the upcoming plans for Fiveways and Calverley Precinct so watch this space…

Please send us any feedback at biddirector@rtwtogether.com on the scheme and how it might be further enhanced.

ADVICE FOR MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES

ADVICE FOR MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES

Closer to you, closer to your business, closer to what matters

Closer to you, closer to your business, closer to what matters

Running a furniture manufacturing business involves unique risks—whether it’s costly equipment breakdowns or, safety hazards in the workshop. Don’t let unexpected events impact your bottom line. With the right insurance, you can protect your business, employees, and reputation.

Running a furniture manufacturing business involves unique risks—whether it’s costly equipment breakdowns or, safety hazards in the workshop. Don’t let unexpected events impact your bottom line. With the right insurance, you can protect your business, employees, and reputation.

Below are some of the risks that furniture manufacturing businesses may face:

Below are some of the risks that furniture manufacturing businesses may face:

• Machinery & Equipment Failures: Your production relies on expensive machinery, which can break down or malfunction at any time. A failure could cause costly delays or even halt production entirely.

• Machinery & Equipment Failures: Your production relies on expensive machinery, which can break down or malfunction at any time. A failure could cause costly delays or even halt production entirely.

• Property Damage: Fires, flooding, or vandalism can damage your workshop, inventory, and equipment. Repair costs or replacement can drain your resources, especially when it comes to custom-built kitchen and bedroom sets.

• Property Damage: Fires, flooding, or vandalism can damage your workshop, inventory, and equipment. Repair costs or replacement can drain your resources, especially when it comes to custom-built kitchen and bedroom sets.

• Product Liability: As a furniture manufacturer, you’re responsible for the quality and safety of your products. If a defect or safety issue arises with one of your products, it could lead to costly legal claims and damage to your reputation.

• Product Liability: As a furniture manufacturer, you’re responsible for the quality and safety of your products. If a defect or safety issue arises with one of your products, it could lead to costly legal claims and damage to your reputation.

As a mutual organisation with no shareholders to generate profits for, NFU Mutual is different. Our reputation has been built on our ability to listen, and we make decisions based on our customers’ best interests. We pride ourselves on establishing direct, responsive and long-lasting relationships with businesses who value a personal approach.

As a mutual organisation with no shareholders to generate profits for, NFU Mutual is different. Our reputation has been built on our ability to listen, and we make decisions based on our customers’ best interests. We pride ourselves on establishing direct, responsive and long-lasting relationships with businesses who value a personal approach.

Reasons to choose NFU Mutual

Reasons to choose NFU Mutual

A holistic team of experts: we work closely with internal experts, including claims specialists, underwriters and risk management consultants to identify industry trends, suggest process improvements within your business, recommend ways to reduce claims, understand risks and limit exposures, which in turn helps us to offer a premium that’s right for you.

A holistic team of experts: we work closely with internal experts, including claims specialists, underwriters and risk management consultants to identify industry trends, suggest process improvements within your business, recommend ways to reduce claims, understand risks and limit exposures, which in turn helps us to offer a premium that’s right for you.

No quibble approach to claims: when you need to make a claim, our team will work hard to ensure the process is handled efficiently and with minimum disturbance, limiting disruption to your business and allowing you to focus on your day job.

No quibble approach to claims: when you need to make a claim, our team will work hard to ensure the process is handled efficiently and with minimum disturbance, limiting disruption to your business and allowing you to focus on your day job.

No admin charges: for changes to your policy. Plus, we don’t charge extra for paying monthly by Direct Debit, so you can rest assured that you won’t encounter any hidden fees.

No admin charges: for changes to your policy. Plus, we don’t charge extra for paying monthly by Direct Debit, so you can rest assured that you won’t encounter any hidden fees.

At NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell Agency we believe in putting our customers’ interests first by offering quality products and an expert local service.

At NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell Agency we believe in putting our customers’ interests first by offering quality products and an expert local service.

To find out more on how we can help contact Shaun Joubert at NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell Agency on 01892 337488 or tunbridge_wells@nfumutual.co.uk

To find out more on how we can help contact Shaun Joubert at NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell Agency on 01892 337488 or tunbridge_wells@nfumutual.co.uk

“Building a

great brand isn’t a quick win - it’s a long-term investment”

Jason Hunt is Founder and Creative Director of branding and design studio

See Think Do. Here the Royal Tunbridge Wells Media Group member reveals why a strong brand can make your business – and how a weak one could potentially damage it

In today’s world it seems everything we encounter is (or aspires to be) a brand. And these brands all vie for our attention, constantly – some demand it, some politely request it and some whisper. You can even brand yourself – I’m Jason, and I ‘m known for wearing orange!

In the commercial world, your brand is ever more important. The most successful businesses are built on the solid foundations of a strong brand. This not only helps to set a business apart amid increasing competition but also helps you build customer loyalty and contributes significantly to your long-term success.

“Your brand identity is still one of the most important and distinctive assets you will ever create – jump on the ‘bland-wagon’ at your peril!

Branding is much more than a logo and a clever headline. It requires a seamless integration between your products, service, strategy and marketing and drives every customer interaction with your business. So before you embark on any sort of branding (or rebranding) exercise, you should always look to create a holistic brand strategy to examine:

– Values: positioning & purpose

– Visual: brand identity & design

– Verbal: Tone & voice

Ignoring these foundations risks inconsistent messaging but with this all in hand, you’ll gain recognition, loyalty and advocacy and leverage the power of your brand, forming emotional connections with your customers along the way. A strong and recognisable brand helps your business to stand out by clearly communicating what makes it (and you) unique. Whether it’s superior quality, sustainability or innovative technology, try to bring your product benefits to life with powerful and relatable storytelling. This emphasis on the emotional benefits of the product (or service) – the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ much more than just the ‘what’

makes choosing ‘you’ much easier. More engagement equals less resistance.

But building a great brand isn’t a quick win, this is a long-term investment. The value of consistent messaging ensures that customers always know what to expect, building confidence and helping to grow your business over time. Start with the basics and add what you can as you learn.

The most successful brands have cultivated loyal followings over many years by consistently delivering on their core brand promises and the best of these often command higher prices.

On the flip side, weak and generic branding will rarely help drive business. A

Building a strong and successful brand requires a strategic approach, long-term investment and consistent effort. If you’re ready to take your branding more seriously, here are some key points to consider…

Know your audience: Understanding your target audience is essential. Research your market to identify the needs, preferences, and pain points of your (ideal) customers.

Define your brand: This will include looking at your business strategy, values, mission and vision, your brand’s positioning and uniqueness.

Personality matters: Never underestimate the value of thinking (and looking) different. Your visual branding must create impact and trigger recognition, and your messaging should be engaging and human but always still you – don’t just ‘make it pop’!

Consistency is key: Ensure that all aspects of your brand, from visual

poorly thought-through rebrand can attract a barrage of negative publicity or worse still, fail to attract any attention at all!

A recent (worrying) ‘trend’ from many new and established brands is the rise of ‘blanding’. Here any vestige of character is lost behind a ‘logo’ made from a simple bold typeface. Throw some bold imagery, funky animation and the odd influencer at it but I’d argue that a distinctive brand identity is still one of the most important and distinctive assets you will ever create – jump on the ‘blandwagon’ at your peril! For more information on See Think Do visit seethinkdo.co.uk

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

elements like your logo and colour palette to tone/voice and messaging, are used consistently, everywhere.

Adapt or die: Being consistent doesn’t mean your branding shouldn’t change. As the market moves, products develop and customers’ needs change, your brand should too.

Trust is everything: Ensure that your business consistently overdelivers on its brand promise. Show up and do what you say you will do. Engage with your customers and you will build loyalty and ultimately, business.

In essence, a strong brand is vital to the success of any business. It helps differentiate you effectively from your competitors and builds customer loyalty which in turn contributes to long-term profitability. But take the time to get it right, for as visionary entrepreneur Tony Hsieh once said: “A great brand is a story that never stops unfolding.”

“We're

excited to make literature more accessible”

May 5 sees a five day festival of all things arts and culture courtesy of the return of the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival. We speak to its producer and curator Carole Winter about the ethos behind it, the ways in which the annual event has become so successful – and discover who’s on the bill for 2025…

Tunbridge Wells launched its first Literary Festival in 2022 and three years - and four successful events - later, it is now an established part of the local cultural calendar.

This year the festival, which starts on Monday, May 5 and runs until May 11, will see the likes of actors Martin Clunes, Rupert Everett, and Richard Ayoade appearing on the bill alongside established award-winning writers such as Nicci French and Poet Laureate Simon Armitage. There will also be plenty of emerging new voices to seek out including Peach Morris and Lex Croucher.

From fiction to fantasy, poetry to performance, wellbeing to gardening, music to heritage – brilliant minds will come together uniting people through shared stories, thought-provoking discussions, and live performance in a variety of venues across Tunbridge Wells.

For those who think books are not for them, there is a literary lunch with Atul Kochhar at his restaurant Essence at the Pantiles, plus you can participate in walks, music, theatre, comedy, workshops and role playing games.

As always, the festival producers have sought to bring together a broad ranging line-up, spanning all manner of genres and age ranges, working to ensure that whoever you are, whatever you’re interested in, and however you like to read, there is something for you at the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival.

PR guru and founder of Colley Raine & Associates Sarah Raine says: “We are

“Authors are carefully matched with the ethos of each venue, allowing for a diverse range of themes, issues, and topics, enriching the festival experience for audiences

very lucky, and think we should all be very proud of the provenance that the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival has achieved in the last four years. It is now a well-respected literary feast, with visitors coming from all over the UK.”

Boosting footfall benefits not only the creative economy but local businesses too, giving them a platform to showcase their work. It also highlights Tunbridge Wells as a prime destination town.

Carole Winter, Producer and Curator of the TW Festival, says: “We have an incredible array of restaurants, bars, shops, green spaces, hotels, and iconic cultural venues, all of which contribute to making the festival experience truly

special for both visitors and locals. Authors also love coming here. Michael Palin even sent a video encouraging other authors to visit, and Lenny Henry shared a heartfelt message of thanks following his visit!”

Alex Green, Director of BID, which has supported the Literary Festival from its inauguration in 2022 comments: “The Literary Festival, as indeed other festivals in the town such as Local and Live, contribute to the development of tourism by attracting visitors who might otherwise not come to the area. The Literary Festival brings thousands of visitors into the town.”

Nicky Blanchard, Centre Manager of RVP, shares her thoughts: “This marks our third year collaborating with the Literary Festival, which is an important part of our vision to transform RVP into a vibrant community and social events hub, in addition to being a shopping destination. We’re excited to make literature more accessible by introducing it to a wider audience who may not typically be drawn to literary events.”

Carole Winter explains that one of her key objectives in creating the festival was to unite the town’s cultural leaders.

“Involving The Forum, Trinity Theatre, The Amelia, and the Assembly Hall Theatre has been essential to its success. Authors are carefully matched with the ethos of each venue, allowing for a diverse range of themes, issues, and topics, enriching the festival experience for audiences.”

The Assembly Hall Theatre is a major draw for celebrity authors, as they are assured of large audiences.

Mikey Powell, Theatre Director says: “The last few years have seen a sharp increase in the number of spoken word events at the theatre. The Festival has tapped into and helped accelerate that trend, providing even more great speakers

that explores power, justice, and the challenges women face in the legal system. The play, which was presented by NT Film last year, sold out two performances as part of the film season at Trinity.

and audiences through our doors.”

Highlights at the theatre this year include Lucy Worsley, Richard Ayoade, Stephen Mangan, the West End hit Austentatious, and international film star and raconteur Rupert Everett.

Matthew Robson, Director of Sales and Marketing for Culture at TWBC adds:

“The Amelia Scott and the TW Lit Fest are closely intertwined. The first festival marked the opening of the Amelia and the building has proudly hosted a wide variety of events across the years for diverse and under-represented audiences from within our community. Our new relationship with The British Library brings their touring exhibition Unearthed: The Power of Gardening to Tunbridge Wells, and has brought sustainability, the environment and wellbeing to the fore. Expect fascinating talks from horticulturalists Sarah Raven, Kate Bradbury and influencer Martha Swales.”

The Amelia will also host thoughtprovoking talks like The Atomic Human, where Neil Lawrence explores AI’s impact. Visitors can also enjoy live music from pianist Alex Metcalfe and John Suchet’s personal journey into Beethoven.

Authors at Trinity Theatre include Suzie Miller’s Prima Facie, a gripping legal drama

Satirist John Crace will bring his sharp wit to the festival with Taking the Lead, offering a fresh perspective on politics. Comedy meets climate action with Matt Winning, who presents a stand-up interpretation of his book Hot Mess, delivering an entertaining and insightful take on the climate crisis.

The Forum, a much loved grassroots music venue known for unleashing new talent, will be the home of Word Up and the Young Company as well Alan Edwards’ I Was There which offers a firsthand account of his experiences in the music industry, sharing stories of iconic artists and cultural moments. Alongside it, Giles Smith will be bringing his My!My! ABBA through the ages, which explores the band’s enduring impact on pop music.

Commenting on the iconic music venue’s involvement Isobel Dormond said: “The Forum is once again teaming up with the TW Lit Fest team to host an exciting series of events featuring music and related authors. This longstanding partnership continues to reinforce the venue’s commitment to offering a diverse programme of not-for-profit events that bring together music and literature in a way that inspires and engages the community.

“Attendees can look forward to a diverse line up of biographers and musicians who will share their insights into how music shapes storytelling and culture.”

The Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival relies on the generous financial and in-kind support of local businesses and Carole is committed to finding creative ways to involve sponsors. This year, new to the Festival is the support of Town Hall. Lucie Merkle, Business Manager, is excited to host several events in the newly

refurbished Council Chamber:

“This space has hosted plenty of serious conversations over the years and now it’s getting an injection of Crime and Punishment authors - the kind who know how to keep you on the edge of your seat. We are hosting Old Bailey Judge Wendy Joseph KC and the brilliant Harriet Wistrich who will be interviewed by the equally astounding Laura Bates. Powerful, and through provoking. We can’t wait!”

For Berry And Lamberts Solicitors, their involvement is more than just a financial transaction. Melissa Hollis, Marketing

“

We hope the festival will unite people through kindness and curiosity, creating new friendships and deepening community connections

Manager for the firm explains that as a local business with a history dating back over 270 years, it is important that the law firm stays true to its philanthropic roots.

“We are passionate about our local community and experience, first-hand, the impact cultural events, such as the Tunbridge Wells Literature Festival, and cultural places, such as Trinity Theatre, have on the people and businesses in our wonderful town.”

Tunbridge Wells resident, journalist and creative writer Caroline Bloor is also eagerly anticipating the festival this year.

“To me, our literary festival line up shows a real understanding of the audience, the mind-blowing breadth of our interests, and our vision for the future.”

The final thought comes from the festival curator, Carole Winter: “My hope is that our festival will unite people through kindness and curiosity, creating new friendships and deepening community connections. By coming together, we can tackle issues like loneliness, isolation, climate change, and foster a strong sense of pride in our place.”

For more information visit www.twlitfest.co.uk

“We will get there faster if we work together”

As media partners of amplifi we are sharing their latest update from one of their recent webinars with sustainability champion and entrepreneur Tracy Sutton from Root

As part of the Education Series for local businesses, organised by circular economy consultant, Christina de Poitiers, amplifi hosted a thought-provoking free webinar session on March 19. It was delivered by specialist advisor for circular economy and packaging, Tracy Sutton from Root.

Root’s main objective is to change the mindset of the manufacturing and consumer goods sectors by championing a responsible, regenerative future for producers of goods and packaging.

“We aspire to climate and circular economy regulation that supports innovation while helping business do more with less.”

Attended by over 50 businesses at the recent amplifi event, Tracy started off talking about the growth in action around the Circular Economy, both direct from consumers and businesses, as well as the government, who now have a dedicated taskforce who are developing a strategy around the circular economy.

During her talk, Tracy delved into clarifying and defining the different climate and environmental benefits that can be achieved through adopting a circular economy, which included :

• Keeping products and materials in circulation through maintenance, reuse, refurbishment, remanufacturing, recycling and composting

• Climate change action and biodiversity

• Eliminating waste and pollution and regenerating nature

Tracy went on to paint a picture of the reality of some of the practices that we consider to be ‘recycling’, specifically the lack of breakdown of component parts or correct repurposing of textiles and materials.

Attendees were presented with images of the textiles mountains in  the Atacama desert in Chile, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch of plastics off the west coast of the

“

We

are currently working with Tracy from Root to create a Circular Economy plan for amplifi members

USA, and the E-waste city in Lagos, Nigeria. It was interesting to hear examples of the benefits for businesses who commit to a truly circular economy. From the measurable social, economic, environmental and brand reputational aspects through to the softer, and one might argue as critical, community contributions it can make not to mention the reputational legacy a business may aspire to leave behind.

There were some simple actions that most businesses could undertake such as; offering specialist skills to a community group to repair an item, passing on old technology or furniture to be reused, lending a meeting room that is unoccupied at certain times in the week. All of which could make a huge difference to the operational costs and resilience of charity and community groups.

Tracy highlighted case studies of good practice in retail, hospitality, and professional services but also reiterated that ‘doing more with less’ is AS important

WHAT IS A CIRCULAR ECONOMY?

It is an economic system based on the reuse and regeneration of materials or products, especially as a means of continuing production in a sustainable or eco-friendly manner. The notion of a circular economy has gained traction, with many companies looking

to get involved in order to minimise environmental degradation and resource use, while improving waste management. The aim is for businesses to apply circularity and reduce whole life carbon and material waste, whilst creating economic opportunities.

as good circular economy practice. Root’s four steps to get started can be found at www.root-innovation.com/

There are a number of great loan schemes and borrowing initiatives now available from hiring fashion to loaning technology, borrowing a drill through initiatives like Peerby to donating household items via Olio, which has expanded to incorporate this service on top of its original food waste platform.

Pete Kenyon, Co-Founder of amplifi commented: “It was great to have so many faces join us online and to start such an important conversation with our amplifi members. Judging by the questions and conversations that followed Tracy’s presentation people are genuinely keen to do more, for many they just need some direction. amplifi are planning to provide this direction and we are currently working with Tracy to create a Circular Economy plan for amplifi members to access – we plan to simplify this subject to provide examples and guidance about how all our businesses can get more involved.

“The job is far from an easy one but the simple truth is that we have to get there and we will get there faster if we work together.”

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

The next amplifi webinar takes place on May 7 at 09:30 and will focus on “Green returns: investing your money confidently for the future”. It will be delivered by Chris Bush from Hall & Gertski Wealth Management Ltd. To book a space for the webinar please visit our website www.amplifi.tw or book here www.tickettailor.com/events/ amplifi1/1583129

For additional info follow: @amplifitw

TRACY SUTTON

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

Embracing the power of words and community

TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells made a welcome return to Tunbridge Wells recently when it hosted its first event in five years at Trinity Theatre. Here, one of its co-chairs Nathan Friend, who also compered the sell-out afternoon, recalls his experiences of the successful day…

It is hard to put into words the joy I felt stepping off the stage for the final at our recent TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells event.

When Lizzie Bentley-Bowers and I agreed to make this event happen, I don't think either of us knew how much work it would take to produce the type of thing we were hoping for - and yet we did it.  We selected a theme, Next Steps, and that allowed us to curate a diverse range of talks, to embrace the learning, doing and discovering encapsulated by our theme.

On the day, there was certainly plenty to learn about. We saw how inclusivity can be an opportunity for incredible emotions and movements through the This Is Us dance troupe, who brought a wonderful performance to our stage.

We were then guided through the power of community, courtesy of Dr. Julian Abel's talk entitled Survival of the Kindest, and then heard about the fascinating story of the Subbuteo World Cup, passionately illustrated through Gianluca Zucchelli’s words.

“We are incredibly proud of all of our TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells speakers for having the courage to share their ideas

After a break there followed a powerful talk, delivered jointly by Nicolette Kay alongside actors Britte De Groot and David Binder. It was based on Nicolette's journey staging the play Hurried Steps, concerning domestic abuse and violence against women. It is a talk I will never forget for how raw it felt. We were truly honoured to give this important piece a platform.

Next up the audience enjoyed watching musician and keen cyclist Paul Cheese

A THANK YOU FROM TRINITY

On welcoming back TEDxRTW to Trinity Theatre its CEO Jacqui Green commented: “We are thrilled to open our doors for the return of this event in Tunbridge Wells.

“As an arts charity with no core funding, Trinity came through the pandemic thanks to the huge local community support and stands today at the heart of community connections. We look forward to continuing to engage and inspire through the arts with the continued support of the town.”

who demonstrated the power that lies in simply listening to our environment, and how the sounds around us can build on each other to become so much more than the sum of their parts. He even brought in Trinity’s Clocktower to his performance! (see breakout)

Finally it was the turn of Sally Henderson to take to the stage. She shared how we can all put our passions into practice through a few simple steps.

I am incredibly proud of all of our speakers for having the courage to share their ideas. I cannot wait to publish them online for the world to see…

Of course all of the above wouldn’t have been possible without the countless hours of work from our TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells volunteer team. To say we have done a lot with a little is an understatement!

Our team of five core volunteers expanded to 11 on the day of the event and consisted of everyone from

Photography: John Knight

marketing experts, coaches and designers, to stage managers, photographers and videographers. All of them made this event a great success and I can't thank them enough. I truly hope the work they do inspires and encourages more people to join us next time.

The feedback we've received so far has already shaped our thoughts for the year ahead, and how we can best build and serve the TEDx community. This platform provides an incredible range of events

A TIMELY EVENT

Paul Cheese’s current sonic project saw him recording in Trinity’s Clocktower to mark the Return of TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells

Local musician and sound artist Paul Cheese recently captured the unique sounds of the newly refurbished Clocktower at Trinity so he could incorporate them into his performance at the recent TEDxRTW event held on Sunday March 16.

As a local artist with a strong connection to the area, Paul wanted to blend these sounds into his set, creating a distinctive experience for the audience.

This exciting moment proved to be a big success for the TEDxRTW audience when Paul presented on stage. He brilliantly captured its resonant sounds

which included the ticking of the clock, the echoes of the bells, and the unique acoustics of the tower itself.

“It was a fitting tribute to the resilience of the theatre, the community, and the creative arts, which have endured and thrived despite the challenges of recent years,” said TEDxRoyal Tunbridge Wells co-chair Nathan Friend.

Trinity’s Clocktower will be open to the general public from April 19, offering visitors the chance to uncover over two centuries of local history through interactive displays and panoramic views of the town.

- from salons to TEDxAdventures to dedicated events on climate and diversity, and we're very keen to bring these new experiences to our local Tunbridge Wells community.

Of course, our sponsors and partners play a massive part in helping us bring these events to life. The support of Cripps,

a returning sponsor from our previous events, and Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine and Southpaw, two partners who have levelled up our ability to connect with you, our audience, ensures that we can keep these events accessible for everyone.

We're always on the lookout for businesses who we can work with to spread ideas. If you'd like to learn more, get in touch with us at hello@tedxrtw. com - we'd love to start a conversation with you.

For more information visit www.tedxroyaltunbridgewells.com

The reality of VAT on independent school fees

Rachel Bailey, Headmistress of fee-paying boarding school Benenden School, argues that independent and state schools are stronger together

We are three months into the Government’s full imposition of VAT charges on private school fees, and already we are seeing the sector suffering from the impact of this misguided policy.

Sadly, some 77 institutions have already closed since the policy was announced in October 2023, according to Department for Education statistics. The Independent Schools Bursars Association has forecast that 286 private schools could close, 11 per cent of Britain’s 2,600 total.

These statistics are, in part, the unfortunate consequence of a deliberate attack on choice within the education sector. It is choice in the market that drives innovation, aspiration and topquality provision. Starving the education sector on a whole will do nothing to improve the standard of teaching and learning in this country. Britain’s independent schools are a huge global

success story: our schools are the envy of the world. I struggle to understand why we would want to harm that.

The popular perception is that the policy targets only the most elite. But in reality, schools like Eton – the poster-boy of the independent sector – will barely be affected. Often people don’t realise that most independent schools are small

community schools, faith schools and those specialising in SEND. Many will struggle to remain open, meaning their in-demand, specialist education will be denied to the children that really need and benefit from it.

It is also important to dispel the stereotype that independent schools are the preserve of the super-wealthy. A third of children currently studying at Independent Schools Council schools receive some form of fee relief, and families make enormous sacrifices to afford the fees.

Benenden School is in the fortunate position of being able to ride out this challenge – and is in fact seeing record levels of interest – but many others will, sadly, not be able to survive. And to what end?

The policy is already putting additional pressure on state schools and many experts are dubious whether it will raise anywhere near the promised £1.8billion for the maintained sector.

The idea that you can only improve state education by hurting the independent sector, is demonstrably false. Independent schools work incredibly closely with their counterparts in the maintained sector and these partnerships are enormously valuable to children in all types of school.

At Benenden our close relationship with The John Wallis Church of England

Academy, Ashford, includes a successful mentoring programme, a hugely popular Combined Cadet Force and a regular sharing of insights and resources.

And this is just one example. Benenden also partners with numerous other local organisations, from schools to care homes, and it’s in the DNA of Benenden students to contribute to any community they are part of – but I won’t claim this is

Every headteacher wants every school to thrive, regardless of where its funding originates. Damaging one sector is not going to improve another – on the contrary, restricting the resources of the independent sector risks reducing opportunities for state students, despite schools’ best intentions.

The Government’s policy seeks to place independent and state schools on

“Our participants become storytellers of their experience”

For this month’s Community Heroes feature, Sarah Raine talks to Ben Solanky, Director and Co-Founder of voluntary organisation Empathy Action...

For those who don’t know about you, can you explain who you and Empathy Action are?

My name is Ben Solanky, and I’m the Director and co-founder of Empathy Action, a small voluntary organisation born in Tunbridge Wells in 2015. The mission of the organisation is to inspire compassionate action and the mechanism to do this is through empathy - using it to attempt to understand global issues like poverty, displacement and climate chaos and take action to help.

Why did you start this organisation?

My family were helped to flee Uganda in 1972 through a friendship they held with St Nicholas church in Sevenoaks. I had a hugely supportive childhood and didn’t know until I was older that they had given so much for us. The Salter family housed my parents and brother for many months, and their daughter Rachel wrote a poem for us all, called ‘Welcome’. My Dad treasured this until the day he died. The power of welcome and community made me reflect on the opportunity we had been given, and I think this has been a huge driver in why I wanted to give back voluntarily.

Can you explain what the commitment is of a full-time volunteer?

In brief it’s a calling and something my wife, four sons and I have followed for over 20 years to dedicate our lives to address issues of poverty, social justice and marginalised people. I learnt through my early career working in the charity sector the mechanisms to drive change. How partnership can be an effective catalyst for people to support themselves.

“

Every teacher, every business leader, every campaigner that’s championing deep empathy, is part of a rally cry I’m delighted to see emerging more and more

Who do you provide immersive workshops and simulations for?

The immersive workshops are used a lot by schools and businesses to understand issues, promote empathy, use as team building exercises, as well as for Continuing Professional Development

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF EMAPTHY ACTION HERE’S JUST SOME OF

390 simulations or immersive workshops, 14,500 people have gone through one of our programmes and we have run handicraft campaigns working with marginalised societies, often enabling enterprise and community development, including:

• 9,000 bullets from the Cambodian Civil War repurposed into ‘shared humanity’ peace keyrings at a UN summit

(CPD). We have worked with borough and district councils, community groups and smaller businesses.

One of the impacts of our programmes is that participants become storytellers of their experience, which means we get a lot of referrals word of mouth.

We want to encourage groups to empathise, and so we also offer a free download of ‘The High Life’ which is an immersive climate justice workshop that people can run themselves using our videos, worksheets and scripts.

Do you think we are losing empathy in today’s modern society?

I think empathy is under siege. It has been used frivolously through memes, headline grabbing and greenwashing and so deep, honest empathy is harder to tap

into. We are all so afraid to step outside our comfort zone, be vulnerable and yet, to truly understand the need, we need to step out and see the reality. Every teacher, every business leader, every campaigner that is championing deep empathy, is part of a rally cry that I am delighted to see emerging more and more, a feeling we are travelling this road together.

If people would like to support Empathy Action, how can they find out more?

• 500 Bracelets from displaced Syrian women in Istanbul were used for festival entrance bracelets

• 500 Peace doves woven from the shards of aid tents as toys given in Cox’s Bazaar in Bangladesh and in school across the South East

• 100 alternative valentine gifts of soapstone hearts to support the Kibera Slum, Kenya to provide 3 hot meals to children

• 100 lockdown rainbows made by street kids in Zimbabwe

As part of our tenth year, we have put out a call for ‘Empathy Angels’, the incredible people behind the scenes who help us do what we do with regular financial support.

We are always looking for volunteers to join us to stage the events, support our office function and also digital ambassadors who can share our message.

To find out more, email us at contact@empathyaction.org or follow us @empathy_action

Limitless Woman : Confidence Isn’t a Young Woman’s Game

We’ve been sold a story that confidence belongs to youth - it peaks in our 20s and 30s, when we’re supposedly at our most energetic, ambitious, and self-assured. But here’s the truth: confidence isn’t about youth. It’s about experience, resilience, and the courage to own who you areunapologetically.

For women over 40, this is just the beginning.

You’ve already overcome challenges you once thought would break you. You’ve had difficult conversations, made tough decisions, and built resilience in ways you probably don’t give yourself enough credit for. Confidence is built through lived experience, and by this point, you’ve got plenty of that.

Yet, despite all of this, many women over 40 still say: Have I gotten too old? Have I missed my chance?

Let's be clear: you haven’t.

In fact, women over 50 now represent one of the most rapidly growing groups of entrepreneurs. Look around - women in their 40s, 50s and beyond are launching businesses, switching careers, leading teams, and stepping fully into their own brilliance. They’re not fading. They’re rising.

“Women over 50 now represent one of the most rapidly growing groups of entrepreneurs”

So what holds some of us back?

The fear of being ‘too old’ to start again is a big one. It’s a myth, plain and simple. It's said that Vera Wang designed her first dress at 40. Confidence doesn’t come from ticking life’s boxes “on time.” It comes from doing what excites you. Caring too much what others think is another trap. Many of us were raised to seek approval, to be likeable, to shrink ourselves. But true confidence is quiet. It’s not about having the loudest voice among many - it’s about trusting your own. And then there’s beauty. We’re

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 is just one recent customer testimonial – there are over 70 more on our website. Just Google ‘tecwork testimonials’.

“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 you 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.”

Do you want to be experiencing the WOW FACTOR and giving us our next testimonial?

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

constantly told that ageing makes us less relevant, less attractive, less “enough.” But confidence doesn’t come from smooth skin or a certain dress size. It comes from energy, authenticity, and how you show up in the world.

So, how do you build unshakable confidence at this stage of life?

Start by owning your story - all of it. Every success, every stumble. Stop waiting for permission and say "yes" before you feel ready. Confidence grows when you take action, not when you wait for the stars to align.

Invest in yourself. Prioritise your physical and mental wellbeing, get training - not to meet unrealistic standards, but to feel strong and grounded in your own skin.

And finally, surround yourself with people who lift you. Energy is contagious. Choose the kind that helps you grow.

If there’s one message I want to leave you with, it’s this:

You are not too old. It is not too late. And the confidence you’re looking for is already within you waiting to be claimed.

www.deeairey.com

Conference inspires future innovators

Prominent business trailblazers, including the founder of Trunki and the CEO of Charlotte Tilbury, spoke at Benenden School’s recent Enterprise and Innovation Conference aimed at inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs

On Thursday March 6

Benenden School welcomed 120 guests from nine other schools from across the South East to join Benenden’s Sixth Form students for the Conference which was held in partnership with Burfields House Wealth Management.

Benenden School, based just outside Cranbrook, is regarded as one of the leading boarding schools in the world. It educates 550 girls aged 11-18, although the conference was open to male and female visiting students.

Featuring keynote speeches from Rob Law MBE, who founded the ride-on suitcase brand Trunki, and Demetra Pinsent, CEO of beauty company Charlotte Tilbury, the conference brought insights from industry pioneers, entrepreneurs and experts, as well as networking opportunities for students and guests seeking insight into the world of business and entrepreneurship.

The closing keynote speech came from CEO of Charlotte Tilbury, Demetra Pinsent, who discussed establishing the brand with Charlotte and having led the pioneering beauty brand from start-up to unicorn to acquisition to IPO as part of the Puig Group. Entitled From Aspiring Medic to Business Leader – Navigating Career Changes with Confidence, her talk drew on her experience to tackle career transitioning in a changing business landscape, and a changing world.

In her welcome address, Headmistress Rachel Bailey told delegates, who were

aged 16 to 18, that to thrive in the business landscape of the future, the key will be their ability to adapt.

In her welcome address, Headmistress Rachel Bailey told delegates, who were aged 16 to 18, that to thrive in the business landscape of the future, the key will be their ability to adapt

Ms Bailey said: “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 rapidly-changing technological landscape.”

Delegates at the conference joined from state and independent schools from as far afield as Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Hampshire and London.

Mr Law gave the opening keynote speech, entitled Overcoming Rejection, in which he traced his trajectory from having been rejected with his iconic rideon suitcase from Dragons’ Den in 2006, to building his idea into a revolutionary children’s travel product empire.

Urging young people to show resilience and determination, he said:

“Learning very early on that life’s short and being on the back foot has been the driving force for me. If you face challenges throughout your life, that’s real character building, that’s going to give you a superpower your peers don’t have. People who are challenged can become more resilient, and think about how you’ll

ROB LAW MBE

succeed earlier.”

A panel discussion on Practical Tips for Setting Up Your Own Business then followed, featuring recruitment expert and founder of F1 Recruitment Amanda Fone, hospitality specialist and founder of Coffee Buzz James Rushton, and Lucy Davis, co-founder of digital agency Factory. The panel spoke candidly on their own experiences as business founders and leaders, and of the qualities that will serve young innovators.

Next, a Q&A session, entitled Entrepreneur vs Professional – Innovator or Expert: What Are You and What Does it Take to be Successful?, invited attendees to draw on the wealth of knowledge and experience of Benjaporn Karoonkornsakul, founder of Asia’s

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leading fitness and wellness brand: ABSOLUTE. Guests relished the chance to quiz Benjaporn on the impact of her business on the wider wellness industry.

A second Q&A session gave Tooba Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai and London-based information technology company Aulysius, the chance to share wisdom from her years as a capital marketing professional, in a pertinent session entitled Next Generation AI: It’s Coming Whether You Like it Or Not.

This was an inspiring day and we were delighted to welcome so many students from our partner schools “

Helen Beedham – organisational expert, speaker, author and host of The Business of Being Brilliant podcast – followed with a talk entitled The Future of Time: Maximising Time in a Frenetic Age, providing welcome lessons for the young audience.

A second panel discussion on Sustainability in Business brought

together Peter Behrens – former solicitor and real estate banker, co-founder of fintech business RateSetter and, more recently, founder of Hexla, helping early stage climate technologies – with Robin Quirt, accredited Later Life Adviser, Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, Chartered Wealth Manager and Director at Burfields House Wealth Management.

On the success of the day, Ms Bailey added: “This was an inspiring day and we were delighted to welcome so many students from our partner schools.

“At Benenden we are committed to ensuring our students are fully prepared for the workplace and hearing from experts in their field is a key part of the Complete Education we offer.”

DEMETRA PINSENT

RACHEL BAILEY

Finding the Right Legal Talent: Your Trusted Recruitment Partner

Based at the heart of Tunbridge Wells, and established for 26 years, we have unparalled experience of assisting local companies to recruit the best person for their roles. With 3 offices, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Kings Hill, we have 4 key services – supply of temporary staff, supply of permanent commercial permanent staff, supply of account and finance staff at all levels and supply of legal staff. As experts in recruitment, our clients and candidates tell us we do our job well… and sometimes a sector expert is needed. So, let us tell you about our Legal Section.

In the fast-paced world of legal services, securing top-tier talent is essential for any law practice's success. Whether you're looking for skilled legal secretarial support, experienced paralegals, competent fee earners, or accomplished solicitors, finding the right candidate can be time-consuming and challenging. That’s where I come in.

As a dedicated recruitment consultant specialising in legal placements, I work with law firms across Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and London to source exceptional candidates at all levels. With an extensive network and deep understanding of the legal sector, I help firms build strong, high-performing teams that drive growth and success.

Why Choose My Recruitment Services?

1. Specialist Legal Expertise – With years of experience in Private Practice legal recruitment, I understand the current trends, such as demand for certain practice areas (e.g. Residential conveyancing, family law), salary expectations, and the qualifications needed for specific roles. This allows me to provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions during the hiring process.

2. Extensive Network – My established relationships with top-tier legal professionals mean I can connect you with the right talent quickly and efficiently.

3. Tailored Approach – No two law firms are the same. I take the time to understand your firm’s culture, goals, and specific hiring needs to ensure the perfect fit.

4. Comprehensive Support – From initial consultation to the final placement, I manage the entire recruitment process, saving you valuable time and resources.

Success Stories

Client Testimonial:

“We were struggling to find a skilled solicitor with expertise in family law. After months of searching, we turned to this recruitment service, and within weeks, we had a shortlist of outstanding candidates. The process was seamless, and we successfully hired a solicitor who has been an incredible asset to our firm.” – Managing Partner, Kent-based Law Firm.

Candidate Testimonial:

“I was looking for a move into a more dynamic legal role but wasn’t sure where to start. With the guidance and support of this recruitment service, I found the perfect opportunity with a firm that aligns with my career ambitions. The whole process was professional, supportive, and efficient.” –Senior Paralegal, Sussex.

Partner with a Legal Recruitment Expert

Recruiting the right legal professionals can make a significant impact on your firm’s success. Whether you are a law practice in need of top-tier talent or a legal professional seeking the perfect role, I am here to help. Get in touch today to discover how our expertise in legal recruitment can support your growth and success.

RTW Together BID is excited to launch a digital town hub and bespoke local app for Royal Tunbridge Wells!

This FREE App for the town is a onestop-shop for residents and visitors to access the latest offers, events, newsfeeds, travel updates and scroll the business directory.

There is a place like home...

At La Spiga, we take pride in crafting fresh, in-house pasta and pizzas using only the finest, freshest ingredients. Our recipes are rooted in Italian tradition, ensuring that each dish captures the true essence of Italy. From our hand-made pasta to our perfectly baked pizzas, every item on our menu is prepared with love and care, just as we would for our own family.

www.laspigarestaurant.com 01892327461 laspigarestaurant@gmail.com 3B Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1LS

Understanding the National Living Wage in 2025

This month Neil Simmons of TN Recruits asks are you paying your staff legally?

In 2006, when I embarked on my recruitment career, the UK’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) for adults aged 22 and over was £5.35 per hour. Assuming a standard full-time schedule of 37.5 hours per week, this equated to an annual salary of approximately £10,427.50.

Fast forward to April 2025, the National Living Wage (NLW) for workers aged 21 and over is set to rise to £12.21 per hour. For a full-time employee working 37.5 hours per week, this translates to an annual salary of about £23,779.50.

Comparing these figures reveals a significant increase over the years. The hourly wage has more than doubled from £5.35 in 2006 to £12.21 in 2025, representing a rise of £6.86 per hour. In terms of annual salary, this is an increase of £13,352, underscoring the substantial growth in minimum wage standards over the past two decades.

As a business owner, it’s imperative to ensure that your organisation complies with these updated wage regulations.

“

As a business owner, it’s imperative to ensure that your organisation complies with these updated wage regulations

Failing to pay staff the correct minimum wage is not only unlawful but can also lead to significant financial penalties and reputational damage. The government has been proactive in enforcing compliance, with HM Revenue and Customs recovering substantial sums for underpaid workers.

To maintain compliance and uphold your company’s integrity, regularly review your

payroll systems and stay informed about legislative changes affecting wage rates. This vigilance will help safeguard your business against legal repercussions and demonstrate a commitment to fair and equitable treatment of your employees. For guidance and support on National Living Wage and any other recruitment or employment related matters, please feel free to reach out.

Contact Neil Simmons at TN Recruits by calling: 01892 571105 or emailing: neil@tnrecruits.com

Simple ways to protect your rental income

This month, Becky Moran of TN Lettings and TN Sales, reveals how you can protect your rental income with a special rent guarantee insurance. Read on to discover more…

As many landlords will know, there are numerous risks you can come up against if you have tenants. And with the new raft of taxes now coming into effect, this will undoubtedly see a knock-on effect across the board.

With energy costs climbing, bills creeping up, and uncertainty in the job market, it’s no surprise landlords are starting to feel a little uneasy.

But the truth is, even with the best tenants, the future is unpredictable. A sudden redundancy or a business closure can quickly lead to missed rent payments; not necessarily because someone’s unreliable, but simply because they’ve found themselves in a tough spot.

In simple terms, rental insurance is a safety net. If your tenant stops paying rent, it means you’re not left short while your tenant tries to get back on their feet

What is rent guarantee insurance?

In simple terms, it’s a safety net. If your tenant stops paying rent, usually due to unexpected financial hardship, rent guarantee insurance can cover those missed payments for a set period. It means you’re not left short while your tenant tries to get back on their feet. It's not just about the money, either. Many policies also include legal cover, so if things escalate and you need to take further action, you’re supported from start to finish.

Why it matters more right now

Rent insurance is always worth considering, but it’s especially important right now given the current climate:

• Rising cost of living – Council tax bills have increased, energy bills are expected to rise again, and general living costs are still pushing people to the edge

• Wage increase impact – While the minimum wage hike helps workers, it also puts pressure on small businesses. Some may struggle to stay afloat, which means redundancies could rise

• Tight property market – With fewer available rentals and higher demand, tenants are stretched. Even a small financial wobble could tip things over

• Uncertain employment landscape

– Many businesses are making adjustments due to the recent Budget announcement, with job cuts an unfortunate reality for many

• Delayed benefits support – If a tenant loses their job, there can be a gap before any government support kicks in, which could mean missed rent in the meantime

If you’re relying on rental income, whether to pay a mortgage, cover costs, or just keep things ticking over, a missed payment can cause real problems. But as tenants there are some steps you can take:

Speak to your letting agent

This isn’t something you need to figure out alone. Your letting agent can walk you through what options are available, what a policy might cover, and how to add it to your setup if you decide it’s right for you.

Even if you’ve got long-standing tenants you trust, it might still be worth a conversation. Insurance like this isn’t about assuming the worst; it’s about preparing for what could happen, especially when the broader economy is under pressure.

A small step for a lot of peace of mind

You can’t predict what will happen with your tenants' jobs or how the economy will react in the coming months. But you can take practical steps to protect your income if things don’t go to plan. Insuring your rent doesn’t mean expecting trouble; it just means you're ready for it, if it comes. That kind of security is worth looking into.

For more info visit: www.tnlettngs.co.uk

We’re always on the look out for land and property with development potential, so if you think you may have suitable, then give us a call, without obligation and in confidence.

Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees, saving property owners significant costs. For more information, contact Stephen Donnelly: 07739 514 350 I 01892 579 937 I steve@sjd-projects.com

sjd-projects.com

Do your Homework

In her monthly column Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential shares her advice on how to make the best first impression for prospective buyers viewing your home

Spring is here and the property market is feeling positive! As a result, many sellers are deciding that now is the time to take the plunge and list their property for sale. In fact, Rightmove announced a record 10-year high in February for properties coming to the market.

Competition is therefore fierce to make your property stand out when buyers have more to choose from and the old adage ‘you only have one chance to make a first impression’ is completely true when it comes to selling properties. However, before you panic and start adding up the cost of having your pebbledash exterior rendered or your less attractive bricks disguised by New England-lookalike clapboard, there are many things you can do to improve the appeal of your property on a tighter budget and timescale. Here are my top tips:

Your front door

Never underestimate the impact of a pristine front door in an on-trend colour, with smart door furniture as it can really set the tone for a well-cared for property. You can be imaginative on a small scale in this area, and wreaths have become increasingly popular, not just for Christmas but working well with a spring or Easter theme as well.

Windows and Window Frames

Clean windows are a must. A combination of sticky pollen, spider webs, dirt and stormy weather can leave windows smeary and grubby, especially after the winter months, and buyers will make quick assessments on how well your house has been cared for based on obvious areas that they can see immediately, such as your home’s cleanliness.

Competition is therefore fierce to make your property stand out when buyers have more to choose from “

The condition of your window frames will often be noticed by buyers and always by surveyors. Wooden frames need regular attention and repainting/ varnishing to keep them weather-proof and looking their best. Repainting can be a tricky and finicky job but isn't impossible if you have patience and a steady hand. If you decide it’s a job for the professionals, make sure you get several quotes from trusted sources. And while PVC or aluminium frames will not need repainting, they will need cleaning, particularly in the spring when winter has taken its toll.

Front garden

If your property has a front garden, make sure it's tidy and weed-free and invest in seasonal planting to make potential buyers smile as they approach the front door. A little seasonal colour and foliage can also really help. If you don't have a front garden, hanging baskets, planters or even window boxes can do the job just as well.

The roof line

Roofs are one of the most common areas raised in a survey, and addressing issues can be costly, especially when scaffolding is involved. However, do not ignore this crucial area of the building with more cost-effective action. Gutters need regular clearing to help safeguard against water ingress and damp patches on interior walls and ceilings. Fascias and soffits, particularly if pale-coloured, will benefit from cleaning.

In next month’s article I’ll consider what can be quickly and easily addressed once inside your property, but if you are thinking of selling and with the better weather feeling like it is just round the corner, this may give you some ‘homework’ for now!

www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

WE NEED YOUR HELP WITH A MAJOR PROJECT!

We must replace the old steel Broom Lane Bridge between High Rocks and Groombridge, and we need your help raising £300,000 to do so!

Broom Lane Bridge, built in the 1890s, has corrosion on the primary girder flanges, particularly on the web flange angles, which is not unexpected due to its age, but it presents a problem.

To ensure we can continue taking you along the Spa Valley Railway, the bridge is regularly inspected, a speed restriction has been imposed, it is subject to an enhanced monitoring regime, and it has recently undergone load testing to demonstrate its continued availability for rail traffic.

There are three phases to the replacement of Broom Lane Bridge:

Phase 1, a certified replacement bridge design, will cost around £30,000; thanks to our savings, we have engaged a company specialising in bridge design, construction, and installation to start work immediately. We aim to have this completed in the first quarter of 2025.

Phase 2 involves constructing and painting a new bridge,

estimated to cost around £70,000. We aim to start this as soon as the design is certified.

Finally, phase 3 involves removing the old bridge and installing the new one, estimated to cost upwards of £200,000.

We won’t be able to do it without your support, and we are appealing to anyone who could help ensure we can complete this enormous project and replace the bridge in 2025.

We know a bridge isn’t glamorous, but without it, we might be unable to run trains over the entire length of our railway. We would be extremely grateful to anyone who can donate to our appeal or participate in our fundraising activities.

Please donate now to our Broom Lane Bridge appeal and keep the Spa Valley Railways’ trains running for you and future generations to enjoy!

After Hours

Where to wind down in the Wells

“This is a Sankey family favourite”

This year the legendary Tunbridge Wells hospitality business Sankey’s is celebrating its 45th anniversary. Here the famous fish and seafood emporium’s proprietor Matthew Sankey shares one of his all-time favourite recipes…

With the sun starting to return to this part of the world, we start to look for more bright and lively dishes. This is a Sankey family favourite, served in the garden with friends and plenty of cervezas and cheeky margaritas…

Sankey’s Monkfish Tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 mini cabbage

• 3 limes, juiced

• Salt

• 400g monkfish fillet

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Small punnet of heritage tomatoes –flesh only, diced

• Handful of coriander (stalks and all), roughly chopped

• Olive oil

• 1 ripe avocado

• White corn tortillas

• Sour cream

• 1 baby gem lettuce, shredded

• Sriracha (for some heat)

Method:

Pickled Cabbage:

Finely shred the mini cabbage (a mandolin works great for this). Toss with a pinch of salt and the juice of one lime, then pop it in the fridge to pickle.

Marinate the Monkfish:

If you’re working with a whole monkfish tail, remove the fillets (or ask your fishmonger to do it). Cut into chunky fishfinger-sized strips. In a bowl, mix the fish with cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and the juice of two limes. Let it marinate in the fridge while you prep the rest.

Fresh Salsa:

Scoop out the seeds from the tomatoes and dice the flesh. Roughly chop the coriander and mix it all together with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Want extra heat? Throw in a chopped chilli!

Guacamole:

Mash a ripe avocado and mix in the juice of half a lime. Simple and delicious!

Other Prep:

• Shred the baby gem and set it aside.

• Preheat the oven to 180°C.

• Place the marinated monkfish on a baking tray and roast for 35-40 minutes until cooked through.

• Follow the heating instructions on your tortilla pack – most just need a quick microwave zap (about 30 seconds).

Time to Build Your Tacos!

1. Spread some sour cream and guacamole on each tortilla.

2. Layer on the monkfish, fresh salsa, and shredded baby gem.

3. Top with the tangy pickled cabbage.

4. Optional: Drizzle with Sriracha for that extra kick.

5. Pick it up, take a bite, and enjoy the flavour explosion!

Want to see it in action?

Scan the QR code below to watch the full recipe video on my Instagram!

How you can celebrate with Sankey’s this summer:

How you can celebrate with Sankey’s this summer:

To celebrate their 45th anniversary Sankey’s is currently hosting a number of events including ‘meals and memories’ dinners, plenty of summer alfresco events and lots of discounted offers for diners. “We just want to thank our customers for dining with us all these years,” smiles Matthew. Find out more how you can enjoy the celebrations by heading to their social media platforms or website: www.sankeys.co.uk

Photography:

Key & Quill

“My recipes work for everyone”

Local food blogger and author Mandy Miller Simmonds tells Eileen Leahy all about her first book Simply Dinners, which publishes in May, and reflects her culinary ethos of fast, delicious and crowd-pleasing cooking…

When the likes of legendary chefs Matt Tebbutt, James Tanner and Jonathan Phang endorse your soon-to-be-published first book you know you’re off to a good start.

And happily, Tunbridge Wells resident and well-known food blogger Mandy Miller Simmonds finds herself in that fortunate position.

The self-taught cook, who has amassed over 170k loyal followers on her extremely popular Simply Food By Mandy Instagram account, is just about to have her first book Simply Dinners published by Meze in May. When we meet for coffee at St Kilda on Camden Road she is positively beaming at the prospect of having her popular, crowd-pleasing recipes wrapped up in a gorgeous new book.

always wanted to write a recipe book and here I am on the cusp of it being published.”

Mandy’s cooking style knows that her culinary hallmarks are delicious dishes that can be whipped up in no time, don’t require lots of pots and pans or fussy ingredients and work for pretty much everyone.

“I have always wanted to share recipes that not only taste good but will also suit single people or larger families. Portion sizes can easily be adapted and I never use unusual ingredients that will only be called for once.”

All Mandy’s recipes – whether it’s a crab linguine, a traditional roast, banana bread or a Korean stir fry – are easy to follow, achievable and usually boast most household’s store cupboard basics.

“The key to this book is that the recipes work for everyone. They are fast, achievable and easy to do

“The key to this book is that the recipes work for everyone. They are fast, achievable and easy to do - and they are an exact reflection of how I have cooked right from the beginning of having my own family.”

The mother of two boys tells me that she has always had a passion for cooking.

“Both my mum and my dad are great cooks so I grew up around good food. I also loved looking through Delia Smith’s books and taught myself a lot courtesy of her. Jamie Oliver and Nigella were two other huge influences in my cooking education and I’m currently into a lot of the millennial cooks coming up like the guys from Bosh.”

Mandy adds that she has been very lucky to meet a few famous chefs courtesy of being invited to lots of events – hence getting the likes of Saturday Kitchen’s host Matt Tebbutt to write a ringing endorsement for her new book. She tells me that being a regular at The Kentish Hare has meant she has developed a good friendship with its chef custodian James

Tanner who runs the restaurant with his brother Chris. She is also a big fan of Robin Read’s The Counter and acknowledges what a fabulous foodie scene we have going on here in Tunbridge Wells.

Simply Dinners is packed with 80 recipes and cleverly divided into a number of chapters which include Family Faves, Speedy Dinners, One pots, Trays and Sweet Treats. The portrait pictures of Mandy in the book have been taken by local

“I’m thrilled with the photography. It was very special having Mollie on board as she knows me so well and is so lovely to work with.”

Simply Dinners is currently available to pre-order online at sites including Amazon, Meze Publishing and Waterstones, ahead of its release in May, and will make a perfect gift for anyone embarking on their culinary journey - but it will also be an ideal kitchen companion for seasoned cooks who are looking to switch up their recipe repertoire.

So how does Mandy come up with her recipes? “I just don’t think too hard about it,” she smiles.

“I think, what do people want to eat? What do they want to buy? It has to be approachable and achievable. The ingredients I use you can buy in any supermarket. So the most important thing is to listen to your audience and stick with it - don’t go off piste.”

And lastly what does she want the book to bring her as an individual?

“Ultimately I want it to be useful to people so they can use it time and time again.”

www.simplyfoodbymandy.co.uk

Instagram @simplyfoodbymandy

Photograph: Mollie Manning

Food images: Paul Gregory

Mandy Miller Simmonds’ Whole Roast Salmon with Ginger Chilli and Garlic

This gorgeous dish is a perfect choice for entertaining, combining beautiful presentation with bold flavours. The Asian-inspired marinade enhances the salmon’s natural richness, creating a delicious dish that’s both impressive and wonderfully simple to make.

Preparation time – 15 minutes

Cooking time – 40 minutes

Serves 8

1 whole salmon (approx. 2kg), gutted

1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and cut into matchsticks

4 cloves of garlic, finely sliced

2 red chillies, finely sliced

5 spring onions, cut into matchsticks

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tbsp ground nut oil

2 tbsp soy sauce

Juice of ½ a lime

Lime wedges, to serve

Preheat the oven to 180°C fan/200°C conventional.

Make 3 deep incisions just through to the bone on each side of the fish.

Set aside a third of the garlic, ginger and chilli. Stuff the rest of the ginger, garlic, chilli and spring onion into the cavity, the incisions and also on top of the salmon. Drizzle with both oils, soy sauce and lime juice. Season generously and roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until cooked through. I cooked mine for 30 minutes and it was just blushing – perfect.

Just before the salmon is cooked, sauté the ginger, garlic and chilli set aside earlier in a little oil for a few minutes until just golden. Sprinkle over the salmon. Serve with a lime wedge.

DINNERS Simply Simply Dinners: Mandy Miller Simmonds £25 available Waterstones.com or Mezepublishing.co.uk

Use code SIMPLY on the Meze Publishing website to receive £5 off & free delivery. People who order with Meze will receive the book before everyone else.

Six wines to get your taste buds hopping this spring

With a couple of bank holiday weekends approaching, this time of year presents a wonderful opportunity to indulge in various traditional dishes - and it’s also a great time to refresh your wine rack!

Whether you're enjoying a classic Good Friday fish supper, a leisurely spring brunch accompanied by sparkling wine, or a magnificent roast on Easter Sunday, there's a winning wine pairing for every occasion.

Try these…

1. 2022 Asda Wine Atlas Côtes du Roussillon Villages, France  (Asda, £6.49, 14.5%)

Asda's enticing, budget-friendly ownlabel ‘Wine Atlas’ range showcases wines from lesser-known regions. With masses of seductive black and red fruits, this juicy black grape blend from Roussillon’s sunny Eastern Pyrenees is a gratifying match for slow-roasted lamb shanks, roast chicken, and Provençal daubes.

With green scents in the air and Easter on its way, TWBM’s Drinks Editor James Viner shares his vinous recommendations for spring-time dining 2 1 3 4 5 6

2. 2023 Filos Estate Chardonnay, PGI Florina, Greece (Aldi, £8.49, 12.5%)

“Sapid, perky, medium-bodied, softly pineapple and stone fruit-spiked Chardonnay from Greece’s coolest wine region on the north-western slopes of the Vermio Mountains in northwestern Macedonia, near the Albanian border. I’d accompany it with a hearty fish pie on Good Friday, or roast chicken, salmon steaks and veggie curries. Usefully quite low in alcohol too. Kalo Paschay!

3. 2023 La Bien Plantá Biodynamic Garnacha, Bodegas Atalaya, Gil Family Estates, Spain (Aitken Wines, D Byrne & Co, Moreton Wine, £13.95-£14.99, 13.5%)

Still hankering for reds? Perfect for spring, this is Jumilla-based Gil Family Estates’ first-ever Demeter-certified biodynamic wine made at its high altitude Atalaya winery with organically grown Garnacha grapes grown at around 700m in Almansa, the easternmost wine region in Castilla-La Mancha. Unoaked with low grape tannins and laden with bright, flyaway red fruits, it’s spot-on with all kinds of grilled/roast meats (hello roast ham with Cumberland sauce), cheeses, Thai beef salad or grilled trout/salmon. Joyous, fresh, vivid, planet-friendly drinking for the here and now.

Whether you’re enjoying a classic Good Friday fish supper or a leisurely spring brunch there’s a winning wine pairing for every occasion

4. 2022 Berry Bros. & Rudd New Zealand Pinot Noir, Greystone Wines, New Zealand (BBR, £20.95, 13%)

Nab this polished, appetising, savoury and gastronomic rosehip tea and red fruit-stashed own-label Kiwi Pinot Noir if you’re after a superior pairing for a classic roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic (whether using locally sourced meat or not). Greystone is a star producer from Waipara Valley, North Canterbury, around an hour’s drive north of Christchurch on the central east coast of South Island. It delights at every turn, leaving a great imprint on the palate. Choosy claret lovers with big pockets seeking a special treat will relish the impeccably balanced, developing 2014 La Dame de Montrose, St Estèphe (£46 at BBR).

5. Henriques & Henriques 10-Year-Old Malmsey, Madeira, Portugal (Majestic, £22 mix 6, 50cl, 20%)

This fortified wine is a ravishingly rich, mouthwatering and seamless amalgam of dried fruits, caramel, walnuts and truffles from the middle of the Atlantic. It has brisk acidity and pairs egg-stremely well with milk chocolate Easter eggs, pecan pie and (of course) Madeira cake. Scintillating length! It’ll keep in peak condition for months once opened. Serve at the ‘old fashioned’ room temperature (14–16°C).

6. Les Pionniers Brut NV

Champagne, France (Co-op, £20.50, down £1, 2-22 April, 12%)

Celebrate Easter by scooping a pound off this already bargainous, deeplyflavoured, lip-smacking, own-label (made by on-song Piper-Heidsieck) Pinot Noir-led NV champagne. It’s a fresh, dry and elegant statement aperitif with lively orchard fruit, floral and sourdough pizzazz. Aldi’s biscuity Veuve Monsigny Champagne No. III Brut NV (£14.99) meanwhile is the top option for tighter budgets/larger congregations. Try this with smoked salmon or sushi and you can thank me later.

Follow James on Instagram @ QuixoticWines

JAMES VINER

With its distinctive spaces and vibrant Rajasthani inspired decor, Essence at The Pantiles is suited to any occasion, from a quick lunchtime catch-up to a long, leisurely private dining experience on our mezzanine. Email Bibi Roy at marketing@essencerestaurants.co.uk for further details about exclusive use

Taste the difference…

In her regular column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, Jo Ginn who runs the Wine Garden of England collective, picks out two of the nine vineyards that are involved in this collaboration which aims to work together to promote Kent as the leading county for wine tourism…

Kent is a big county isn’t it? I never really appreciated this until I started working with vineyards all over Kent and would regularly drive two hours from West to East. There are subtle differences in the climate, too as you drive further East towards the Kent coast. Slightly drier, slightly more sunshine hours, and the sea adds a maritime influence which softens the edges of hard frosts and extreme temperatures.

This month I am concentrating on two vineyards in East Kent, both located near the wonderful city of Canterbury.

“Visiting Simpsons winery is an intimate affair. Small groups are guided through the chocolate box village to their original vineyard where they will see the vines close up

The first is Simpsons Wine Estate which is located in the gorgeous village of Barham, about 20 minutes from Canterbury city centre. Ruth and Charles Simpson are a British couple who travelled to France as youngsters and decided to have a go at making wine in the country’s largest winemaking region, the Languedoc Roussillon. Over ten years they built a successful business called Domaine Sainte Rose, and to the local’s chagrin, exported every bottle they made. You can find their wines here in restaurants and specialist wine shops. Once their children were ready for secondary education, they returned to England with no clue of where to settle. They had read that the UK had some areas of chalk exactly the same as that of the Champagne region, and found the perfect place to grow vines that would make sparkling wine. It was a lot more

difficult than growing grapes in southern France, but they’ve been perfecting their craft for the last ten years, and produce some of the best sparkling and still wines in the country.

Visiting Simpsons is an intimate affair. Small groups are guided through the chocolate box village to their original vineyard where they will see the vines close up, and hear stories about how they evolve throughout the year. Then it’s back to the winery and the hotel-chic style tasting room that overlooks the gleaming tanks. The wine tasting is a journey through sparkling, rose, white and reds - all an excellent example of what is possible in this marginal climate. They leave the best bit till the end. A hatch is opened in the wall, and you are invited to exit the tasting room via a Helter Skelter (yes, you read that right) directly into the winery. The philosophy behind this is to shift any inhibitions you may have about asking questions about wine, and encouraging you to just enjoy it.

A few miles away, another picturesque village called Chilham is home to Domaine Evremond. This is the first Anglo French alliance in the UK, where Champagne Taittinger has partnered with a UK wine importer called Hatch Mansfield, who distribute Taittinger here. The heads of both companies have been friends for decades, and bought up the chalky slopes of Chilham back in 2015, planted the champagne varieties, used Simpsons’ winery to make their first base wine and have since built a state-of-the-art underground winery where their first non

vintage wine is cellared.

Rather like a stylish iceberg, the Domaine Evremond visitor centre is housed in the only part of the building that is above ground, overlooking the breathtaking vineyards that could so easily be a scene from Burgundy. The press got involved in planting the first vines ten years ago, and have since been whipping up a frenzy amongst us, anticipating the first English sparkling wine made by the prestigious Taittinger family. After a tantalising wait, we are now able to visit Domaine Evremond, and try the very fine English Sparkling wine that is a product of friendship between two neighbours.

Chilham is also home to the Wine Garden of England Summer Celebration. On June 7 nine Kent wine producers will be gathered around the beautiful lake of Chilham Castle, where ticket holders can taste the wines and meet the people behind the labels. There will also be local food producers and live music. A £40 ticket gives you 9 free tasting samples, a free Riedel tasting glass, our new Handbook, a tote bag and lots of goodies from our sponsors. It’s a beautiful day out, and you can get there by train - it’s walking distance from Chilham station.

To discover more about the wineries mentioned visit: simpsonswine.com domaineevremond.com

And to book tickets for the Wine Garden of England Summer Celebration visit: winegardenofengland.co.uk

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Thinking about installing a new swimming pool? Well how about being a little bit more adventurous by opting for a natural swimming pond instead writes Tim Sykes of Gardenproud

So you want a swimming pool?

Great idea! But before you get planning have a long hard think about your budget as it is a significant investment. You can be talking in excess of £100,000 to buy and install a pool. Plus, you need to consider the landscaping around it and any summerhouse, or associated buildings.

But, if you are still smiling and that’s what you want, then a pool is most definitely worth it!

My wife Sarah remembers vividly her childhood and those lazy summer afternoons enjoying Fab Lollies around a friend’s pool, while the adults got into a good book, or challenged each other to a swimming marathon. I’ll bet they might even have sipped the odd G&T and simmered in the sunshine!  The barbecues and parties that followed all remain in the memory banks…And for Sarah the pool was most definitely the catalyst.

These days however it is the natural swimming pond that is courting all the attention. And I have to say it is a completely different swimming experience. It adds a new dimension to the aesthetics and puts you back in touch with nature.

Imagine the feel of swimming through fresh water in a safe environment, with natural planting and features all around you and you get a sense of how special it is… Not only is it environmentally friendly, a natural swimming pool is also a beautiful alternative to traditional chlorine pools.

A

“

natural swimming pool adds a new dimension to the aesthetics and puts you back in touch with nature

Designed to enhance the landscape, you can opt for aquatic plants and biological filters which will help maintain your water quality and cut out the need for additives.

For further information contact Tim Sykes at Gardenproud on 07725 173820, or see his website at  www.gardenproud.co.uk

What are the advantages of a natural swimming pond?

1. Eco-Friendly and chemical-free. One of the biggest advantages of a natural swimming pond is its chemical-free filtration system. This makes it a safer and healthier option for swimmers, especially those with sensitive skin or allergies

2. Beautiful and wildlife-friendly. As a designer I love the way a natural swimming pond can integrate perfectly with its surroundings, often resembling a small lake, or garden pond rather than a traditional swimming pool

3. Lower upkeep and year round looks. While there is the initial cost of creating a natural swimming pond, they do have lower maintenance needs. There is no need for frequent chemical testing, or costly chlorine treatments. Instead, the pond maintains a natural balance through its ecosystem

4. Energy efficiency and sustainability. Unlike traditional pools that require pumps, heaters, and chemical treatments, natural swimming ponds use passive filtration methods, significantly lowering energy consumption

Making Waves

So who are the main players in the natural swimming pool world? Well there are a number of specialists who offer the experience and planning to help get you started. Check out these websites:

• Gartenart www.gartenart.co.uk

• Inspired Natural Pools  www.inspirednaturalpools.com

• Ponds by Michael Wheat  www.pondandgardendesign.co.uk

• The Swimming Pond Company  www.theswimmingpondcompany.co.uk

• Ellicar www.ellicar.co.uk

• Turtle Swimming Ponds  www.turtleswimmingponds.co.uk

Images by Gartenart

“Spring is all about renewal, and the same applies to your home”

Home organisation specialist Kate Edmondson of Home Edited shares her top tips on how to streamline your space and get set for spring…

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and reset your space. With a bit of effort and intention, you can transform your home into a calm, functional haven that makes everyday life easier. Here are Home Edited’s top tips for an effective spring reset.

FOCUS ON HIGH-IMPACT AREAS

When starting your spring reset, it’s important to focus on the areas of your home that will make the biggest impact. These are typically the spaces you use the most, like the kitchen, living room, and bedroom. By detoxing and organising these high-traffic areas, you’ll immediately feel a sense of order and calm.

Kitchen: Begin by detoxing your kitchen. Clear out any expired pantry items and donate any duplicates of utensils, pots, or gadgets. Make sure everything has a designated place, this will help maintain order throughout the year.

Living Room: The living room is where you unwind, so it should feel inviting and functional. Re-evaluate what’s in your living room, are there items that clearly do not belong, or are there things that have just accumulated over time? For example, you might find things like paperwork, kids’ toys, or random items that have no place. Create a space that, at the end of the day, you can sit back and relax in.

Bedroom: A clutter-free bedroom contributes to better sleep. Start by clearing out any items that no longer serve you, such as old clothes, worn-out bedding, or things that don’t belong. For example, donate clothes you no longer wear or recycle bedding that’s seen better days. Create space for a calming

environment by simplifying and ensuring everything has a designated spot.

SEASONAL STORAGE MADE SIMPLE

As we transition from winter to spring, many of us need to store away seasonal items like heavy blankets, winter coats, and boots. Here are a few easy storage solutions to keep your home organised while still having easy access to items. To keep your space streamlined, remember to keep similar items together and use the collate method, grouping like items with like to make finding what you need easier.

Under-bed storage: Utilise the space under your bed with storage solutions or drawers for seasonal clothes or blankets. It’s an excellent use of space that might otherwise be wasted, helping to keep things tucked away but easily accessible. Overhead shelves: If you have extra closet space, consider adding shelves up high to store things like boots, bags, or off-season bedding. This helps maximise vertical space while keeping your items organised and out of sight.

Storage ottomans or baskets: Decorative storage pieces, like ottomans or large baskets, can hold seasonal items and add style to your space at the same time. These pieces can easily blend into the decor while serving a functional purpose.

Be sure to label everything for ease of identification, so when you need an item, you can find it quickly without having to dig through boxes or bags.

INSTANTLY ELEVATE YOUR LIVING SPACE

If you’re looking to refresh your living area, one of the simplest ways to switch up the look is by swapping out smaller decor pieces. Here are a few ideas for an easy refresh:

Cushion covers: One of the easiest ways to change the feel of a living space is by swapping out cushion covers. Choose soft, natural fabrics like linen for a fresh look, or bring in a pop of colour with vibrant patterns or textures.

Throws and blankets: A new throw or blanket can add warmth and style to your home. For a spring vibe, opt for lighter fabrics like cotton or a pastel shade.

Lighting: Changing your lighting is another quick way to shift the mood of a room. Swap out heavier, darker lampshades for lighter, airier options.

SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR A SEAMLESS SPRING REFRESH

Start small: If you feel overwhelmed, tackle one space at a time. Small wins can motivate you to keep going.

Detox first: Before organising, make sure you detox and get rid of anything you don’t need.

Maintain simplicity: Simplicity is at the heart of everything we do. Simple systems work better for long-term maintenance, making it easier to stay organised through the months ahead.

www.homeedited.co.uk

info@homeedited.co.uk Instagram @home.edited

Photography: Lottie

Topping

“I design spaces that bring people happiness”

Phoebe Oldrey is a local designer who runs Smartstyle Interiors. Here she tells Eileen Leahy about her unique, holistic approach to helping clients create their dream home…

Why and when did you start your career as an interior designer?

Interior Design wasn’t my first calling, I originally trained and sporadically worked as an actor. I loved it but I suddenly reached a moment when I was tired of life being on hold while waiting for ‘my big break’. I’ve always loved interiors – I remember when I was contemplating what to do, I found a scrap book I’d created when I first moved out of home. It was full of home magazine pictures and doodles of interiors ideas. It was a light bulb moment and saw me enrolling in the KLC School of Design to study in 2001. And the rest, as they say, is history…

How easy was it eventually start building a client base?

I knew I didn’t want to set up my own business straight away after leaving KLC. I felt I had learnt the skill to design while at college but not the knowledge of turning those design ideas into reality - which is quite a complicated thing. I first interned for Mark Humphries, who was listed as one of House & Gardens’ top 100 designs and was also Ringo Starr’s designer. I then left there to work with a lovely designer called Sue Symons who really mentored me. I was with her for about two years and worked on a number of projects from design to completion. During that time I saw how her business ran, met people in the industry and learnt how to deliver work as a designer on a building site.

“My work involves putting the client at the centre of everything and designing a home that brings them happiness and works for them

So how did you start out on your own as an interior designer?

When I went on maternity leave in 2005 with my first son, my husband and I ran the numbers of returning to work and cost of childcare, we realised I had nothing to lose by starting my own company. My first client came from a tiny ad in a local magazine. I will always be grateful to her for taking the chance on a brand-new business owner and asking me to design her home. Through my contacts courtesy of Sue Symons I was able to open trade accounts, have a little black book of

crafts people and knowledge to set up the infrastructure of the business. But then came a relocation from London to Tunbridge Wells and it was like starting again. It was hard work but it really made me a better businessperson as I learnt so much. I got out and networked, leafleted door-to-door, advertised and blogged.

Your company Smartstyle Interiors takes a very holistic approach to design. What’s involved?

Holistic can be a tricky word, as lots of people have images of me rushing into their home with Tibetan gongs and sage sticks, which isn’t quite right! The word ‘holistic’ means that everything is connected, so as well as creating a design that delivers on the functionality of a space and making it look amazing, I’m also looking to make sure a home supports my clients on many levels beyond this. This can cover areas like psychology, habit and health. It doesn’t radically differ from the ‘traditional’ way of working, it’s the added bonus of looking at how a space ‘feels’ to be in.

Why is it so important to put your trademark ‘human happiness’ at the core of a project?

It’s about putting the client at the centre of everything and designing a home that brings them happiness. Not just in terms of what it looks like but with how it represents them and works for them.

It’s a hard trademark to quantify, but the best compliment from clients that make me feel I’ve nailed it, is when they say they came back from holiday and love walking into their home, they say it feels joyful and like a big welcome. Their home makes them happy and that makes me happy…

Would you describe your working relationship with clients as collaborative?

To deliver a home that is the perfect fit for someone, I must really understand them as much as possible. So it only works as a collaborative relationship. They need to open up and lead as to what matters to them and I need to lead as the designer. They have to trust me to so I tailor their home to fit them perfectly.

Where are the majority of your clients based?

My clients are scattered through Kent and East Sussex. I will normally say if it’s within a 45min drive, it’s in my catchment. Though I have done a Barristers Chamber in London and a home in Brighton.

Are there any standout projects you have worked on - and if so, why were they so memorable?

The one that stands out, more for an emotional reason, was the home I did in Brighton. When the owner came to me, she had just come to the end of a couple of hard years, culminating with her mother

“

One area I feel drawn to is improving office spaces. It’s a sector that is really stuck in a rut and needs to be addressed differently for better working environments

passing away. During that time her home had taken a back seat and this was making her unhappy. When I started the job, I said I wanted to create a home that brought her joy. She also had amazing art throughout the house, which really inspired the colours I used. When we finished, she said how much this had meant to her, and that she loved her home so much. It brought her the joy we spoke about in the first meeting. For me it was seeing the results of taking an holistic approach making a difference to someone so deeply, and that was really powerful to me.

What are the key parts of your job that you enjoy the most?

I enjoy the variety of how my day can go. One day I can be 100% design which is quite meditative work and really focused and then the next I can be in a client meeting, or on a site or in showrooms surround by people, firing ideas around.

Do you work with any local businesses and if so, can you tell us a bit about them?

It’s the various trades I work with that bring my work to life, and two which are local and everyone can get in and use is Arlo and Jacob, the new sofa company on the high street, and Jones Britain kitchens. Carl is the manager at Arlo and Jacob. He really knows his stuff and is passionate about the product he sells. I’ve also been working with Dan Strong, who owns Jones Britain. But he and his team don’t just do

the kitchen, they do the whole room and work on delivering a seamless project. It makes mine and my client’s life so much easier. Dan is also an exceptional designer himself, so I love working with him.

Are there any dream jobs you would like to work on one day?

I would love to work on some more commercial projects, especially a café or small hotel, it would be amazing to bring an holistic approach to those types of spaces. However, one area I feel drawn to is improving office spaces. It’s a sector that is really stuck in a rut with what is delivered and really needs to be addressed differently for better working environments. There is so much research into how better designed offices, improve health, productivity and staff retention.

Tell us about any exciting plans you have in store for the rest of 2025... At the start of the year I launched Smartstyle Interiors’ ‘tailored consultations’, which cover four different topics. I looking forward to reaching a bigger audience with these smaller packages that can offer lots of advice – no matter how big or small the project.

For more information visit: Website: www.smartstyleinteriors.com Instagram: @phoebeoldrey

Your skincare survival guide

With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to reassess your skincare routine. Here, Lara Husband of Skin Therapy The Pantiles, guides you through the best ways to care for your skin during the summer months, ensuring it stays healthy, balanced, and protected all season long..

Sun Protection

Firstly, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable for healthy skin all year round – and not just summer. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Wearing a Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily is the most effective way to protect your skin. Don’t forget areas like the ears, neck, hands, and lips, which are often neglected but just as vulnerable, and ensure you are re-applying every 2-3 hours, particularly if you are outside.

TIP: If you undergo facial hair removal treatments, be particularly vigilant with sunscreen reapplication, as the area will be more prone to burning and pigmentation changes.

Skincare Ingredients and Photosensitivity

Certain skincare ingredients don’t directly cause photosensitivity—it’s the inflammation they trigger that increases sun sensitivity. AHAs, BHAs, and retinols speed up cell turnover, sometimes leading to redness, peeling, and increased UV vulnerability.

This doesn’t mean you should avoid activities in summer. Used correctly, they can repair and protect the skin. Just be mindful of your skin’s response and always wear and reapply SPF.

TIP: Start with a lower-strength retinol and introduce it gradually to minimise inflammation. For exfoliation, opt for lactic acid or enzymatic exfoliants for a gentle skin refinement.

A PASSION FOR FASHION

Local personal stylist, professional shopper and wardrobe detox expert Victoria Genevieve hosted a Spring Gathering at Fenwick in Tunbridge Wells last month. During the event guests enjoyed delicious canapes and flutes of fizz while Victoria picked out her top sartorial choices for the new season. There were also talks and tutorials from the teams at Estee Lauder and Bobbi Brown beauty and goody bags to take home!

The next event is Victoria's Summer Gathering which takes place on May 19. Follow @ victoriagenevievestyling to book

Wearing a Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily is the most effective way to protect your skin but don’t forget to apply to areas like the ears, neck, hands, and lips “

Summer Skin Concerns Dehydration

Even balanced skin can feel dehydrated in summer. Instead of heavy moisturisers that may cause congestion, focus on barrier-supporting ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides. Strengthening the skin barrier helps lock in hydration while keeping your skin strong and resilient.

Oiliness and Breakouts

Warmer weather can trigger an increase in oil production, which may lead to a shiny complexion, congestion, or breakouts. Adding salicylic acid to your routine can help breakdown excess sebum. Regular use of clay or sulphur based masks will absorb excess oil on the surface, reducing shine, and the chance of congestion leading to breakouts.

Hyperpigmentation

If you’re prone to hyperpigmentation, using a tyrosinase inhibitor is essential. Tyrosinase is the enzyme that triggers pigment production, so using inhibiting ingredients like kojic acid, arbutin, and vitamin C can prevent pigmentation at the source. Vitamin C also doubles as an antioxidant, protecting against free radical damage from sun exposure.

Facial Treatments

Regular facial treatments can help you maintain healthy skin throughout summer. At Skin Therapy, The Pantiles, I offer bespoke treatments tailored to your skin’s needs. The Sculpt & Glow Facial provides gentle exfoliation while incorporating brightening vitamin C for that summer glow. For oily or breakoutprone skin, the Deep Cleanse & Heal Facial focuses on extractions and oilabsorbing ingredients to keep congestion under control.

For more information or to book a treatment visit: www.skintherapythepantiles.com

“We

live by the mantra, buy well, buy once”

Through Your Wardrobe is located at 13 Chapel Place in Tunbridge Wells and is run by sisters Charlotte Lyon and Gabby Icke. Here they share some of their sartorial tips on how to shop sustainably…

“There is a wealth of amazing clothes that come in through our doors, each and every day. We curate collections combining high street designers such as Zara to high end pieces by Chanel, you never know what you are going to find! You can buy great quality for a fraction of the retail prices, shopping sustainably and finding unique pieces. We are on hand to offer advice on one item or restyling your whole wardrobe. We live by the mantra, buy well, buy once. We have so much to offer the discerning shopper, secondhand does not mean second rate quality.

“

A well-curated wardrobe is the foundation of effortless dressing

A well-curated wardrobe is the foundation of effortless dressing. By investing in high-quality basics and mixing in fashion-forward pieces, you can create a timeless, versatile wardrobe that always looks polished.

There are a few essential basics to start building on. These are our recommendations:

A White Shirt – A crisp white shirt is endlessly versatile. It goes with everything for either a smart or casual look. It always makes you look put together.

A White T-Shirt – The ultimate foundational piece, a well-fitted white t-shirt can be styled with jeans, skirts, or under a blazer for a chic, effortless look.

A Good Pair of Jeans – A well-fitting pair of jeans is essential. They go with absolutely everything from day to evening.

A Trench Coat – This timeless outerwear piece instantly elevates any outfit. Whether worn over jeans and a T-shirt or a dress, a trench coat adds sophistication and structure.

A Tailored Jacket – A structured blazer or jacket sharpens any ensemble. Choose a neutral tone like black, navy, or beige for maximum versatility.

A Perfect Coat – A well-chosen coat can transform even the simplest outfit. You could be wearing jeans and a T-shirt, but

basics, you can incorporate trend-led pieces to keep your wardrobe fresh. A bold accessory, a statement belt, or a pair of more trend led shoes shoes can add a modern twist to your classic staples. However, avoid following trends blindly— choose styles that flatter your body shape and complement your personal aesthetic.

Remember that accessories can make or break an outfit. A well-chosen handbag, jewellery, scarf etc can add personality and style and elevate a simple look.

Buy Well, Buy Once. Quality over quantity is the golden rule of a curated wardrobe. Invest in well-made, timeless pieces that will last for years rather than chasing fast fashion trends. Good tailoring is also essential for fabrics and fit. Don’t be afraid to have clothes altered to fit properly – find a good tailor and make them your friend!

By focusing on well-constructed wardrobe essentials, choosing styles that suit your body shape, and using accessories to add personality, you can achieve a pulled together, effortless look every day. A curated wardrobe isn’t about having more clothes—it’s about having the right ones.

Come and visit us from Monday to Saturday 11am to 5pm (and out of hours private shopping by appointment) in the pedestrianised paradise that is Chapel Place in Tunbridge Wells.

Face value

Set in beautiful Victorian gardens just 10 minutes from the centre of Tunbridge Wells, Knowle Grange is an independent, privately owned spa. Having undergone an extensive and stunning redevelopment, its facilities are now some of the best around and the team there are making a serious name for themselves by exclusively championing quality skincare such as Environ. Here the spa’s owner Carol Barazzone tells us more about why this brand made the grade…

When did you first hear about Environ? We had been aware of Environ’s groundbreaking and revolutionary antiageing facials for some time and had therefore been waiting for the perfect opportunity to launch the range at Knowle Grange.  Women (and men too) are increasingly looking for non-invasive treatments that provide noticeable and reliable results without the lengthy recovery time and risks associated with invasive treatments.

Can you explain its key benefits and how it differs to other skincare brands?

We pride ourselves on researching and providing the highest level of excellence with our chosen skincare brand.  Environ is a scientifically proven medical-grade skincare system designed to reverse skin damage and ageing using vitamin A and anti-oxidants.  Environ’s dual electrosonic technology helps ensure optimal results. Environ was formulated by Dr. Des Fernandez, a recognised and well respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon, who pioneered the use of vitamin therapy for the skin. Environ dovetails very nicely with the French brand, Caudalie, which we also stock and use for treatments.

How many sessions would your specialist Environ therapist recommend?

A course of 6 to 8 Environ facials over a period 3 to 4 months.

Are you the only spa in the area that’s offering Environ?

Yes we are the only stockist of Environ in the area.  Our therapists are Environ trained and well qualified to advise on the best treatment to help you achieve a healthy and radiant complexion.

For more information visit: www.knowlegrange.co.uk

A force of nature

Imagine strolling along a serene beach at sunset or wandering through the rust-coloured leaves of Ashdown Forest in Autumn—this is precisely the experience that David Atkins brings vividly to life through his latest series of oil paintings.

Step into the landscapes of Ashdown Forest and Camber Sands, as renowned artist David Atkins unveils his latest collection of oil paintings at the Fairfax Gallery Gallery’s clientele.

“Acclaimed for his ability to capture the ever-changing moods of nature, Atkins’ impasto oil brushwork eloquently depicts the dramatic skies and landscapes of these iconic locations, inviting viewers into a world of serene beauty and evocative light.

David Atkins’ artistic journey has been closely intertwined with the Fairfax Gallery since its opening in 1995, and their collaboration has thrived with over 15 successful solo exhibitions of his works. In recent years, Atkins has turned his focus towards The Ashdown Forest, spending weeks in the great outdoors, painting en plein air to capture the region’s stunning autumnal palette and the warm evening skies that grace its landscape. His depictions of this natural wonder, along with his coastal paintings inspired by Rye Bay, have garnered admiration and found a special place in the hearts of the Fairfax

David Atkins’ artistic journey has been closely intertwined with the Fairfax Gallery since its opening in 1995, and their collaboration has thrived with over 15 successful Solo Exhibitions of his work

Born in Greenwich, London, in 1964, Atkins refined his talent at the prestigious St Martins School of Art and Winchester School of Art, graduating with first-class honors. His notable achievements include winning esteemed awards such as the Horan Prize for painting at the NEAC Exhibition, the Façade International Prize at the Discerning Eye Exhibition, and the Baltic Exchange Prize at the RMSA Exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London. Reflecting on his latest works, Atkins shares:

“In this new body of work, my intention was to capture my experiences in the familiar landscapes of Ashdown Forest, Rye, and Camber Sands. Spending an entire day in one place allows me to observe the constant changes unfolding before me. Dog walkers, friends meeting, horse riders, wildlife, sailors, boats, and fishermen have all passed through my view at some point, each adding a sense of importance and drama to the scene. Their presence speaks to the timeless nature of these activities, and incorporating them into my work became

September Morning, Camber Sands Oil on Canvas 90 x 110cm

View From Colemans Hatch. Ashdown Forest Oil on Board 71 x 67cm

a new creative challenge.”

David Atkins’ paintings transcend mere representation—they are celebrations of landscapes, capturing the energy and essence of places cherished by many. Each canvas vibrantly preserves fleeting moments, allowing viewers to connect deeply with the natural world.

“Atkins’ impasto oil brushwork eloquently depicts the dramatic skies and landscapes of iconic locations

DISCOVER THE EXHIBITION

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to witness the David Atkins exhibition firsthand. Visit the Fairfax Gallery at 23

The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, between April 26 and May 13, or explore the collection online at www.fairfaxgallery. com.

As with all works at the Fairfax the paintings exhibited are one off originals, created by the artist. Own one of these collectable paintings and bring home the magic of Ashdown Forest and Camber Sands captured through the extraordinary talent of David Atkins.

David Atkins Exhibition

‘Late Evening, Camber Sands’ Oil on Board 25 x 25cm

‘Horses on The Ashdown’ Oil on Board 76 x 71cm

Explore the many wonders of the Norwegian coast

Many Norwegians grow up to fairy tales and folklore inspired by the natural beauty Norway is known for. Here, our mountains are made of trolls and the Northern Lights are our bridges to Valhalla.

Sailing Norway’s coast since 1893, we’ve been at the heart of that legend, connecting people together, and sustaining communities for generations. Let us show you the true culture of Norway and its coast. You’ll peer deeper into everyday life here, share in authentic culture, and meet genuine people who call the coast home.

From magnificent fjords and mighty mountains to historic cities and culturerich towns, there are many wonders to explore on the Norwegian coast. Spanning 102,937km, Norway’s mainland coastline - including its 1,190 fjords and 50,000 islands - is the second longest in the world after Canada. To put this into context - if stretched out, Norway’s coastline would circle the Earth some two and a half times. To truly experience Norway’s coast, then, it’s best to do as Norwegians have done

This month Baldwins takes a trip to Norway. Read on to discover how you can experience its myth and its magic courtesy of a trip with Hurtigruten

for centuries and explore by ship. We’ve been sailing these waters for over 130 years – nobody knows Norway’s coastal highlights like we do.

Our voyages are your escape from the stresses of a fastpaced world. So settle into the soothing rhythm of life at sea and admire the beauty of Norway’s coast

to dinner or your slippers to breakfast. Swap stories in the bar, read in the lounge, do a jigsaw puzzle. It’s up to you. We are your home at sea.

We’ve designed our voyages to be your escape from the stresses of a fast-paced world. Settle into the soothing rhythm of life at sea. Admire the beauty of Norway’s coast unfolding before you. Appreciate the moments of wonder. Our ships are big enough for you to find quiet spots for some quality alone time, but small enough to create a cosy atmosphere that makes it easy to chat to like-minded shipmates. Here, you’ll feel calm and content without any distractions. Norwegians are down-toearth people, so we don’t believe in dress codes on board. Wear your hiking shoes

Our ships are floating kitchens, sourcing ingredients where we sail on the bountiful Norwegian coast. The fjords are our fish tanks, the mountains our herb garden. Over 80% of the in-season food and 60% of the drinks we offer in our menus on board come from 80 local suppliers from all over Norway, delivered direct and fresh-as-can-be to our ships at the ports we sail to. Showcasing Nordic cuisine on our ships for the past 130 years, no one else has a network of local Norwegian food and drink suppliers like we do, to give guests a true taste of Norway.

Enjoy freshly caught flaky Arctic char from Sigerfjord in Vesterålen, awardwinning goat cheeses from Aalan farm in Lofoten, and tangy handpicked cloudberries nicknamed ‘Highland Gold’. You will travel with more meaning when you sail with Hurtigruten: going off the beaten track; being connected to the communities here; joining local excursions; tasting homegrown ingredients; caring for the nature of the coast – these all enrich your voyage. You won’t just visit Norway. You’ll live it.

If you would like to find out more about this incredible destination, please contact your local Baldwins Travel branch, or call 01732 225533 or visit the website www.baldwinstravel.com

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!

Scan Me to book your free tickets

27th April 2025 10.30am - 2.30pm East Sussex National Hotel Little Horsted, Uckfield TN22 5ES

For further details please call 01732 225533 or Visit baldwinstravel.com/events

Coastal chic

Looking for some much needed R&R, Nick Moore headed to The Relais Cooden Beach Hotel & Spa in Bexhill, a venue once frequented by the likes of Winston Churchill, the Duke of Windsor and King George VI to experience its legendary hospitality and exceptional scenery and service…

Ifirst read about The Relais Cooden Beach Hotel & Spa in a review in the Telegraph a few years ago, shortly after its complete refurbishment. And, having spent a few years working with the hospitality world, I am always interested at how independent hotel brands manage to stand out in a market that’s dominated by large international brands.

So, when my wife and I were offered the chance to stay at The Relais we of course gladly accepted.

Located along the serene coastline of East Sussex just past Normans Bay, The Relais Cooden Beach Hotel & Spa offers a tranquil escape with its idyllic seaside setting. Blending traditional charm with contemporary elegance, the hotel is ideal for travellers seeking relaxation paired with understated luxury. It’s in house spa, excellent dining and close proximity to both the beach and main line train station, makes it a versatile choice for both business and leisure breaks.

As we arrived at the hotel we parked just outside the main entrance and were quite taken by the hotel’s perfectly manicured gardens that wrap around the buildingthey clearly have a very conscientious and creative estates team.

Once inside the hotel, the reception is stylish and modern but with a definite seaside vibe. Gone is the traditional large hotel reception desk, instead it’s replaced by a much more welcoming and

“The Relais Cooden Beach Hotel excels as a coastal retreat, blending comfort, natural beauty, and exceptional service

contemporary reception bar, manned by smiling, immaculately dressed staff.

Having been taken over in 2021 by The Relais Retreats, the renamed Relais Cooden Beach Hotel & Spa’s 45 rooms and public spaces have been strikingly refurbished. The bedrooms at Relais Cooden Beach & Spa are thoughtfully designed, featuring soothing coastalinspired decor with soft hues and plush furnishings. Our stay in a Superior Room included a supremely comfortable bed, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, tea/ coffee facilities, and free Wi-Fi added slick convenience. The ensuite bathroom was stocked with luxurious toiletries, elevating our experience.

Following a brief rest in the bar and a quick G&T, my wife and I went along to the recently launched spa for a little R&R. Once inside, we were met by Amy the Spa Manager, who quickly gave us a tour of the fabulous facilities.

And then it was time to relax enjoying a soothing foot spa, the gorgeous heated loungers and vitality pool. Next up was a session in the infrared sauna followed by ten minutes in the aroma essence steam room which really helped clear a foggy head.

Before heading back to our room we were treated to the Cosy Couples spa experience. My wife enjoyed the hot lava shells massage while I opted for the ‘deeper than deep’ full body massage.

Both hour long treatments were excellent and I personally can’t think of a better way to spend a Monday afternoon in March. After a quick wash and brush up we headed to the hotel’s bar and restaurant which emphasises locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, delivering dishes that are both fresh and flavourful. The stylish bar, with its selection of decent wines and craft cocktails, provided a perfect evening retreat. While the menu is not extensive, the quality and presentation compensate for variety.

The three exterior walls of the The Rally Restaurant in the hotel are floor-to-ceiling glass providing guests with a panoramic view of the beach and sea. We had a fantastic table for two with uninterrupted views of the great British coastline as our backdrop to dining and it felt very special indeed.

For dinner we ordered the Trio of Beetroot and Relais Fishcakes to start, followed by Pan roasted Cornish Cod loin and locally sourced sirloin steak - medium rare of course. Every mouthful was delicious. To accompany our dishes we chose a bottle Chablis, Domaine Dupre, which priced at £42 for a bottle, is pretty good value. I can safely say it was very much enjoyed after a hard day doing very little…

After a very comfortable and deep night’s sleep we just had chance to grab some breakfast before leaving. The offering

“For dinner we ordered the Trio of Beetroot and Relais Fishcakes to start, followed by Pan roasted Cornish Cod loin and locally sourced sirloin steak - medium rare of course

starts with a very impressive continental style buffet boasting a selection of meats, cheese, salmon, fresh bread, pastries and cereals and is followed by a choice of cooked breakfast. Despite being still pretty full from the evening before, we managed to squeeze in a lovely full English, which included perfectly poached eggs.

As we checked out, the staff were as friendly and professional as they were when we arrived and it must be noted that the team and service are the hotel’s standout feature. They are attentive, warm, and always eager to help. Special mentions go to Sara, the hotel’s Business Development Manager, who showed us around and was genuinely passionate

Despite the luxury and stylish décor and relaxing location, the Relais Cooden Beach & Spa is perfect for the more corporate of events, meetings and get togethers. The hotel has a variety of well-equipped meeting and event spaces in a choice of seven different layouts. It’s the perfect solution for small intimate meetings to larger events of up to 150 delegates. With many enjoying sweeping views across the sea it’s the ideal venue for a memorable and inspiring conference, meeting or event.

about the venue, and Harvey who looked after us in the evening with flawless friendly service.

The Relais Cooden Beach Hotel & Spa excels as a coastal retreat, blending comfort, natural beauty, and exceptional service. And with prices from just £153 per night mid-week for two including breakfast, you certainly don’t need to be a King, Duke or Prime Minister to enjoy this seaside getaway.

For more information visit: www.therelaiscoodenbeach.com Instagram: @therelaiscoodenbeach LinkedIn: the-relais-cooden-beach

Thank you for the music

Last month Local & Live hosted its 2025 launch party at the Old Auction House. The evening saw event organisers and musicians mixing with the town’s key business and administrative figures to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this popular live music event which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend…

Local & Live is celebrating a big anniversary this year, one that founder Paul Dunton finds barely credible. “It doesn’t seem possible that it’s 20 years that we’ve been doing this,” he commented as he recalled how it has grown into Tunbridge Wells’ biggest annual event.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 festival at The Old Auction House, musician and organiser Paul explained there are big plans to mark this milestone anniversary.

“Local & Live is only possible thanks to the close working relationship between the town’s local music scene and its businesses

“We have some surprises on the bill that long-time fans of the event should enjoy,” he teased.

More than 100 key people from the local music and business scene came together for the announcement. Members of the Local & Live team revealed plans for this year’s event and guests were entertained by music from one of this year’s performers, Anouska.

The event is possible thanks to the close working relationship between the town’s local music scene and its businesses.

THE LOWDOWN ON LOCAL & LIVE:

• The event was first run in 2006 as part of the town’s 400-year anniversary celebrations

• The festival was officially branded as Local & Live in 2007

• Originally the event took place on the bandstand in The Pantiles

• Once it had outgrown the venue, it relocated to Calverley Grounds in 2014

• It is now officially the biggest annual event in Tunbridge Wells, attracting audiences of thousands

• It includes exclusively local traders providing food and drink over the four day festival

• Brings life and commerce to the town centre in the midst of the summer holiday slump.

• Costs close to £70,000 each year to hold the event.

• Almost entirely funded by sponsorship and fundraising by the organisers

Maxipay Accounting Services is the headline sponsor for the fourth year running. This local employer’s enthusiastic support has allowed Local & Live to prosper and establish itself as a signature event in the town’s year.

Once again the festival centres on Calverley Grounds for three days, this year taking place over the bank holiday weekend of August 22-24.

“Usually this is a quiet weekend in most towns, being the heart of the holiday season. But Local & Live draws crowds of thousands to the town centre creating a buzz and prosperity in the community,” added Paul.

Photography : Rose Bainbridge

Left to right: Local & Live’s founder and artistic director; Paul Dunton, trustee and performer; Anna Howie, performer at the launch and this year’s event; Anouska and business director Charles Armstrong-Wilson

Celebrating the power of live music and creativity

UnFEST, Tunbridge Wells’ free fringe festivial returns for 2025. Here Isobel Dormon of The Forum, who helps organise this music and arts festival every year, explains what you can see where over the weekend of May 23 to 26…

UnFEST, Tunbridge Wells’ Free Fringe Festival, returns for 2025. Running from Friday May 23 to Monday May 26 the event will be held across a multitude of venues across the town including The Forum, The Forum Basement, The Sussex Mews, The Sussex Arms, The George, The Royal Oak and Lost. Each day runs from 1pm to midnight and there will be lots of live performances to enjoy for free.

“There will be a feast of genres of music performed by over 200 local, regional artists alongside national and international performers who will headline each evening’s entertainment,” explains The Forum’s Isobel Dormon.

The iconic music venue she co-runs with her husband Jason remains a mainstay of the national touring circuit.

“This year we will bring more free shows into the UnFEST umbrella – to provide the festival and the town with ‘headliners’ with a national and international reputation,” she adds.

The line-up for 2025 includes the internationally acclaimed instrumentalist, who was recently seen on Jools Holland, K.O.G (Kweku of Ghana) headlining The Forum Saturday May 24. Dublin based trio Adore play on Friday May 23 as part of their UK headline tour which includes other stops in Southampton, London and Hull. The Unbelievable Truth, fronted by the evocative vocals of Andy Yorke, brother of Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, take to the stage on Saturday May 24 in The

Forum Basement.

“Alongside these national and international artists, we will be showcasing the wealth of talent that exists in Tunbridge Wells with established local artists such as Bombay Monkey, Night Without Sleep and Orange Circus Band,” continues Isobel.

“Young bands like Orcha and The Street Lights, who started performing at The Forum’s Under 18s Mic nights years ago, and are now established performers, will be returning to the venue over the weekend. Opening the festival at The Forum on Saturday will be Vox Pop & Indie choirs and on Sunday we’ll welcome the community Samba band, Bloco Fogo.”

The Forum team will again be partnering with other event organisers and Tunbridge Wells creatives including Word Up who will be hosting a spoken word event from The Forum Garden stage both Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 6pm. Paul Dunton will be curating the Local and Live Stage at The Sussex Mews, which will run from the Saturday to the final day of UnFEST on Bank Holiday Monday.

At the Royal Oak pub there will be Folk at The Oak once again including Americana

“

Alongside the national and international artists appearing on the bill at UnFEST 2025, we will also be showcasing the wealth of talent that exists in Tunbridge Wells

sessions and a Supajam Fundraiser. Isobel reveals that there’s a new performance venue that’s been added to the list for this year.

“We now have Lost - the Bedford’s basement venue – as a new performance space for Unfest ’25 to showcase and promote their work with local and regional DJs and hip hop artists in the town.”

As well as plenty of great music and creative performances to enjoy there will also be lots of fantastic hospitality to enjoy too says Isobel.

“Alongside Fonthill Brewing Company and Fonthill collective pubs, there will be other local businesses feeding and providing refreshments for the crowds including Charlies Angels Kitchens, Wally’s Fried Chicken, Odeys and Fine grind.

“After a successful concession on The Forum veranda last year, Charlies Angels Kitchens will be running on both the Saturday and Sunday from 1pm. And we’re very excited about that!”

Unfest 2025 is supported by The Forum Members Club, RTWT, Creative TW, TWBC. Check out latest event details and line ups at www.unfest.co.uk and www.twforum.co.uk

TEAM EFFORT: Jason Dormon (far right) with UnFEST's co-organiser Mitch Johns (left) Manager of Sussex Arms pub

My Tunbridge Wells, Your Tunbridge Wells

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

Hop to it

The terrific Royal Tunbridge Wells Together BID Easter Trail has returned to town and runs until April 21. A ticket includes your chance to include 16 hidden bunnies for a chance to win a £200 party at Manic Ceramix. While a smaller trail for children aged five and under offers a Jellycat toy as a prize. Maps are available at RVP Customer Service Desk, The Amelia, participating businesses, and online at Visit Tunbridge Wells.

Capturing the castle

Chiddingstone Castle has plenty to keep the whole family entertained until Monday April 21. Explore the castle and its collections while following a familyfriendly Easter trail, hunting for eggs and chicks hidden around the grounds. Gaze at the cherry blossoms and the daffodils in full bloom. Oh, and make sure you save time to visit the tearooms and look out for their Animal Encounters event too! More details here: www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Just roll with it

Bring the whole family to Ightham Mote for some exciting outdoor fun with Easter Adventures which run until April 21. Chase the chooks around the garden and complete ten fun activities and challenges to earn a delicious chocolate egg. No booking is needed. But if you want more information head to www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Let us entertain you…

Spring has sprung at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park. Meet the adorable new arrivals and don’t miss the bottle-feeding demonstrations throughout the day. If you’re more into lizards, snakes, and spiders, head over to Critters Corner. Hop on a farm ride to explore the countryside, or get creative in the Paint-a-Pot studio to make a special Easter keepsake. Step into the Big Top for live shows, animal feedings, owl flying demonstrations, and more. Plus there’s Mr Moo’s Messy Play AND explore their indoor and outdoor play areas. All taking place until April 20. www.kentlife.org.uk

Escape to the country

Spring is officially springing! Pierson Agriculture’s Lambing Day at Four Winds Farm returns on Friday and Saturday 18 & 19 April from 10am – 4pm. It’s the perfect chance to see adorable newborn lambs, enjoy sheep shearing demonstrations, watch an exciting sheepdog display, and even take a fun trailer ride (weather permitting). There will be plenty of activities for all ages, including crafts and face painting, plus hot food and drinks to keep you fuelled for fun. Want to book? Head here…. www.facebook.com/farmfourwinds

A cracking idea

The ‘Egburt Holmes’ Easter Egg Hunt kicks over the Bank Holiday Weekend at The Spa Valley Railway. Enjoy the sights and sounds of two fantastic Victorian Steam Locomotives hauling trains and get ready to laugh at ‘Egburt’ Holmes, the great egg detective, as he tries to crack the case of the Easter Bunny’s missing eggs. Collect your activity packs, search for the missing eggs and hop back on the train for a return trip to Tunbridge Wells West, where treats will be handed out. www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Photograph: Mollie Manning

Park life

Pop along to Grosvenor & Hilbert Park on Saturday April 26 (10am to 12 noon) at the Lower Football Pitch for the annual Friends of Grosvenor and Hilbert Dog Show - a fun-filled celebration of all things canine! Entry is free and all are welcome, though donations to support future events are greatly appreciated. www.fogh.org.uk

Try this…

Don’t miss the incredible Macy Gray live in concert at The Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells on May 10. This show is part of Macy’s tour celebrating 25 years of her seminal album On How Life Is. As well as performing the album, she will be playing many of her other legendary hits.

With her unmistakable voice and soulful hits—including ‘I Try’—this exclusive show promises an unforgettable night of music, energy, and emotion.

Brought to books

The Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival returns from May 5 to 11 with its most diverse lineup yet. There will be over 50 events including author talks, workshops, and performances across the town’s vibrant cultural venues. Audiences can enjoy talks from literary legends such as Simon Armitage, Lucy Worsley, and Richard Ayoade as well as Young Adult writing panels and Jane Austen tributes.

According to organisers this year’s festival promises ‘bold stories, fresh voices, and something for every reader’.

See www.twlitfest.co.uk for more info and to book tickets.

Spring is officially springing and there’s plenty to amuse everyone during April and May”

Go with the flow…

Something a bit different? Join Candice Yoga for a unique and joyful ‘Yoga with Goats experience’ on Saturday May 10 at Princess Christian’s Farm in Hildenborough. This beginners-friendly 90-minute session (running from 10am to 11.30am) blends yoga, qigong, sound healing, and the calming presence of goats—perfect for resetting your nervous system in nature. Booking is essential. www.candiceyoga.co.uk

Calling all fashion fans…

Project Pre-loved is back for 2025 and it’s happening on Wednesday April 30 at The Manor House in Tunbridge Wells from 7.30pm-10pm. Its organisers Laura and Natalie, the sister duo who run the events business Mum’s The Word tell us more about it…

Mum's the Word have announced that their popular pre-loved fashion sale is back for 2025 and will take place on Wednesday April 30. It will be held in conjunction with local charity Refugease,

Taking place at The Manor House in Tunbridge Wells from 7.30pm - 10pm, there will be 26 stalls of pre-loved fashion, as well as local independent fashion brands such as Pink Mary, TW Seven, and Love & Luxe and many more.

“In addition to all our wonderful retailers there will also be a few fun extras too,” reveal Laura and Natalie of Mum’s the Word. The sisters add that the ‘fun extras’ will include street food and a set from the much-loved DJ Ali, who will be back on the decks for all your ‘90s/00s requests.

“The event will run in conjunction with Refugease – ‘a small ‘n’ mighty’ charity that lives to help our war-torn brothers and

sisters around the globe,” add Laura and Natalie.

“The charity also help with frontline evacuations, humanitarian aid and selfreliance for refugees so we’re proud to reveal that 10% of ticket sales will be donated to Refugease.

“Any unsold stock can be donated to Refugease at the end of the night,” the sisters add.

So. if you fancy supporting the planet by shopping second-hand or want to help local independent businesses and a very worthwhile charity, then Laura and Natalie advise you to ‘grab your girlfriends and get ready to bag your ticket’.

“The Project Pre-loved event will feature 26 stalls of pre-loved fashion, as well as local independent fashion brands, beauty, our resident DJ plus food and drink! We can’t wait to see everyone there.”

Tickets for the event cost £6 and can be purchased via www.mumstheword.online

Show your support this spring

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. This month we’re highlighting Demelza’s amazing spring appeal – which is all about making every day extraordinary for the children and families they support…

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, South East London and East Sussex.

The charity’s specialist nurses work across the hospices, in the community and at local hospitals, and are there for families with expert clinical, emotional and practical support at every step – from first diagnosis and for as long as needed.

Seven-year-old Daisy and her family feature in Demelza’s spring appeal. Daisy has a complex medical history –she’s ventilated by a tracheostomy 24/7, has a feeding peg, epilepsy and global development delay. Daisy was in hospital for the first year of her life and when she came home, her family soon realised how vital Demelza’s support would be.

“Demelza’s spring appeal is aiming to raise £210,000 and thanks to the generosity of The Freddie Green and Family Charitable Foundation and the Kenora Charitable Foundation, every donation to the appeal will be doubled

As well as visiting Demelza and being supported at the charity’s Sittingbourne hospice and in the family home, Daisy has also been supported by the charity’s nurses on numerous visits to Tunbridge Wells hospital when she has had seizures. Her mum Fiona said: “[When Daisy was

in hospital] Demelza nurses stepped in and allowed me to leave the room.

“I could leave Daisy in their care to go home, get a change of clothes, shut my eyes for five minutes and get some food.

“Having that support means you can shut off, refocus your energy and recharge your batteries, because you know you’ll be back in that hospital by their bedside for countless days.

“Without it, I would feel exhausted. I wouldn’t be able to cope.”

Demelza’s spring appeal is aiming

to raise £210,000 and thanks to the generosity of The Freddie Green and Family Charitable Foundation and the Kenora Charitable Foundation, every donation to the appeal will be doubled.

The unique support that Demelza offers means families not only have the specialist medical care their child needs, but also helps them make memories to last a lifetime.

You can help Demelza support families like Daisy’s by donating to their spring appeal here: www.demelza.org.uk

Details on Demelza

With two residential hospices in Kent and South East London, a community hospice 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.

This summer, Demelza’s Trail with a Tale will see beautifully illustrated large sculptures and smaller animal sculptures dotted all around Tunbridge Wells to form a unique, family-friendly outdoor trail for all ages to enjoy. The larger sculptures will be designed and decorated by artists, while local schools and community groups have also been invited to get involved by signing up to design their own smaller sculptures.

“Collaboration leads to such incredible things”

Comedian John Bishop has been an incredible part of TaylorMade Dreams’ journey.

From when he kindly invited a very poorly Taylor Mitchell in 2011 as a special guest to see his show, to then keeping Taylor smiling during the tough years that ensued until his untimely death in 2014, the comedian has been a huge supporter of Taylor-Made Dreams (TMD).

The charity was founded in 2014 when Suzi Mitchell’s son Taylor sadly lost his battle against a terminal illness. For the past eleven years it has helped children with life-limiting illnesses and their families across Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex, and John Bishop has been its patron since becoming a registered Charity in 2014.

Seeing such a huge turnout for our TMD fundraisers is something we are always so grateful for “

Since then he has attended multiple TMD events over the years. Most recently John hosted a comedy night on Taylor’s Birthday, March 3, which saw an array of the comedian’s incredibly funny friends in attendance.

Join team TMD for a skydive in 2025

“Join us this summer for an unforgettable experience ... Skydiving! We will be heading to Headcorn Airfield once again for our annual TMD Dragonflyer on Saturday June 21 and Sunday June 22, for a weekend of flying fundraising you don’t want to miss!”

If you are looking for a challenge in 2025, please email us at: hello@taylormadedreams.org.uk to sign up or for more information on the event.

To raise vital funds, Taylor-Made Dreams hosted a special audience with John Bishop, an afternoon tea celebrating women – and even managed a spot of skydiving and marathon running. Read on to discover more about these exciting events the charity has put on to help children with life-limiting illnesses and their families…

They included Des Bishop, Andrew Maxwell, Tim Vine, Laura Lexx and Stephen Grant who all got up and did their thing at the special event held at the Assembly Hall in Tunbridge Wells.

“Seeing such a huge turnout from the community for a TMD fundraiser was a moment we will never forget and we are so grateful for everyone who joined us. You are now all dream makers, creating magical memories for TMD families now and in the future,” said Suzi.

“Everyone’s hard work paid off, and together you raised an incredible £33,238.25!”

Suzi then added that there was a little more extra special news to announce: “We are thrilled to share that John will be hosting this event annually in support of Taylor-Made Dreams. We hope you can make next year; it will definitely be one you won’t want to miss!”

March also brought with it the charity’s Celebration of Women Afternoon Tea.

The event, which is now in its second year and held at LIMEKILN in Eridge, raises funds for TMD services, whilst also promoting awareness for

International Women's Day.

“It has become an event we look forward to hosting, as it allows us to meet so many inspirational women within the local community and hear stories from incredible female speakers,” explained Suzi.

This year the event was sponsored by local health centre, Horder Healthcare’s Women’s Health Service at The McIndoe Centre, and was hosted by Claudia Sermbezis (BBC TV reporter, actress and writer) alongside guest speakers Dr Jane Willis (Consultant Clinical Psychologist, TMD family member and Trustee), Dr Emma Sloan (GP and menopause specialist) and Katie King (author, keynote speaker and consultant on Artificial Intelligence and business transformation). Raising awareness for International Women's Day is a cause close to TMD’s CEO Suzi’s heart: “There have been so many incredible women that have supported me over the years, and who have helped guide me to where I am now. We need to celebrate women who do amazing work, as when we collaborate, we can create such incredible things.”

Photography: Mimi Van Praagh

Picture perfect…

In his monthly column, antiques expert and broadcaster Mark Hill, shares the story of George Smart – AKA The Tailor of Frant. And reveals details of an exclusive sale of one of the revered Georgian artist’s historic paintings

Sometimes it all just works out – a Tunbridge Wells connection, a historic and legendary name, a fascinating story, a growth area, and charming creativity.

A friend contacted me earlier this year as he’d fallen in love with a painting and needed to clear some wall space, and generate some money, to own it. The picture he had decided to part with was a rare fabric collage by a Georgian called George Smart. My jaw hit the floor! So, why? The multi-talented George Smart (1774-1846), also known as ‘The Tailor of Frant’, is recognised as one of the key figures within the history of British folk art. And by folk art, I mean art produced by self-taught artists, typically from rural or traditional communities, that reflects a shared cultural heritage

bore that name boldly displayed on the exterior. Its prime position on the main road leading through Frant placed him in an ideal position to advertise and sell his skills and wares as people passed through the village.

As well as tailoring services, he made and sold painted ‘dummy boards’ and charming pictures made from fabric, some being offcuts from his tailoring trade. Unique and handmade, they were proudly displayed on shelves outside for all passersby to see and buy.

This is a unique opportunity to acquire not only a work in excellent condition by a legendary folk art icon

showing

his most beloved local Kentish character “

and ethos, rather than being the result of formal, academic artistic education. It’s an area that has boomed in popularity and value internationally over the past few decades, and this is set to continue.

Smart lived and worked in the village of Frant around two centuries ago. His home, which also housed his workshop, was known as ‘Smart’s Repository’ and

Seemingly never backward in coming forward, he soon built up quite a name for himself, and was featured in tourist guidebooks for Tunbridge Wells which was, by the Georgian period, a celebrated tourist destination. In 1820, Smart sold works to His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex when he was visiting the area, and thus then considered himself ‘By Royal Appointment’.

Two of his most commonly depicted characters are The Goosewoman, with her red coat and black bonnet, and ‘Old Bright’ the postman of Frant. The picture my friend consigned to me to sell is of Old Bright, who is arguably Smart’s most loved character. This example contains all the marvellous detail associated with Smart’s depiction of this popular character, from the donkey he led to the buckles on his shoes, his leather satchel, furry grey hair, tired demeanour, the handwritten letters with their cryptic part-hidden addresses, and more.

Delivering post was actually Old Bright’s second career - before this he was widely known locally in Tunbridge Wells as the ‘Sweeper of The Walks’, the name then given to The Pantiles. Considering its age and the materials, the condition is excellent, with strong colours and all the details down to the metallic paper flags and clock hands, and the handwritten addresses on the letters.

But there’s more - this unique picture is illustrated and discussed in the monograph book ‘George Smart, The Tailor of Frant: Artist in Cloth & Velvet

Figures’, (Unicorn, 2016). Author and George Smart expert Jonathan Christie states that “...This Postman is considered the earliest known example of this subject by Smart. ... The historian and writer James Ayres knew this picture well and indeed described it as one of the earliest of its type.”

Not only is it thought to be the earliest known depiction, but it also came out of a noted private folk art collection, the Judkyn/Pratt collection, sold at Christie’s in 1995. Perfect provenance indeed!

All works by Smart are rare and highly sought-after. Although there are no records of how many pictures or boards Smart made, and no idea of how much they cost at the time, it is thought that only around 100 of his works (all pictures) survive today. And most of those are already in private or public collections including the Tunbridge Wells Museum, Compton Verney, and Scotney Castle. In 2014, the ‘British Folk Art’ exhibition at the Tate Gallery included 21 of his works.

This is a unique opportunity to acquire not only a work in excellent condition by a legendary folk art icon showing his most beloved local Kentish character - but also the earliest known example of him.

‘Old Bright The Postman’, c1815-20, housed in its original period frame, will be offered for sale with Mark Hill Auctions on 24th April 2025 with an estimate of £1,500-2,000. It is truly of enormous local interest and relevance, and I’d love to see it ‘return home’ to a new owner in Tunbridge Wells or Frant.