TW Business Magazine September 2025

BUSINESS

EDITOR

Eileen Leahy

DESIGN MANAGER

Jason Stubbs

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Robin Singer

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

George Percy

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Richard Moore

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Nick Moore

Welcome to your September edition of Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

With a new academic year now underway we bring you our special Education Supplement which has all the latest school information you need – whether you are looking to find the right educational establishment for your child or need some guidance on getting them through their time at school. Our cover star this month is Rob Wheeler, MD of Eridge Green Kitchens. We met him to discover all about the beautiful hand crafted kitchens, bathrooms and boot rooms he and his team make in their Crowborough workshop which are then proudly displayed in the business’s smart showroom in the town’s High Street. Rob tells us what makes the company so unique and how you can design the dwelling of your dreams with his expert team’s help.

Elsewhere we bring you news of our first ever Tunbridge Wells Business Awards which have just launched. These are to reflect the wonderfully diverse, creative and successful economic landscape we have here in our town.

Whether a business is large and

long established, an SME or a fledgling start up there is room for everyone so make sure you enter these prestigious awards in order to shine a spotlight on the ingenuity, resilience, and ambition of the businesses that make Tunbridge Wells such a remarkable place to work.

We also talk to some pioneering businesses leaders in this edition – from the co-owner of a thrilling escape room to a revolutionary car repair shop and celebrity chef – there is something for every reader to enjoy. We also reflect on the importance of networking and share tips on how to prevent fraud when renting a property. Add to the mix all your local news, business insight, expert opinions, council updates and all your favourite regular lifestyle content and you have a perfect read for the month ahead. We hope you enjoy!

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

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine is published by JJL Media & Marketing Ltd, Head Office, High Street, Cross in Hand, East Sussex, TN21 0SR. Registration no: 15546231

For enquiries please email hello@twbusinessmagazine.com or call 01892 574474 www.twbusinessmagazine.com

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

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...

Dee Airey Photographer & Visibility Strategist

Nick Brandon Director, Tecwork

Nick Bryant Founder & Managing Director, Brilliant Businesses

Gemma Farina Managing Director, GFHR Consulting

Sophie Forrest-Lavery Founder The Forrest Group

Alex Green CEO, RTW Together

Matthew Hill Founder, Private Medical Insurance Brokers

Shaun Joubert Senior Partner, NFU Mutual

Sarah Raine Director, Colley Raine & Associates

Paul Langridge Founder, Dent Rewind

Richard Phillips Owner, Thackeray’s Restaurant

Clare Lush-Mansell Founder, My Tunbridge Wells

Andrew Metcalf Managing Director, Maxim PR

Iain ParkerStrak Chief Marketing Officer, Iglu Tech Group

Becky Moran CEO, TN Lettings and TN Sales

James Rees Managing Director, Razorthorn

Deborah Richards Founder, Maddisons Residential

Craig Richardson Associate Solicitor, Berry & Lamberts

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

Neil Simmons ManagingDirector, TN Recruits

Gary Valentine Managing Funeral Director & LAFD President

Ashdown Travel expands with two new branches and key appointments

Former staff from Baldwins have been appointed new roles with Ashdown Travel

Ashdown Travel, a leading independent travel agency and proud member of the Advantage Travel Partnership, is pleased to announce its expansion with the opening of two new branches in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. This expansion strengthens the company’s presence across Kent and Surrey.

To support this growth, Ashdown Travel has welcomed 10 experienced team members formerly from Baldwins Travel, including respected industry professional Tricia Lester, who joins as Head of Retail overseeing operations across all three locations.

The new appointments include Clare Meakins, Janet Forward, Paul Levett and Jane Bowler-Kemsley from the for Baldwins Tunbridge Wells branch, Nikky Kirkup from the Westerham branch and Hayley Noon, Claire McNally, Dhara Treadgold & Jane Chappell from Sevenoaks branch who all bring extensive knowledge, passion, and client-focused service that aligns perfectly with Ashdown Travel’s established standards and trusted reputation.

The Tunbridge Wells branch, which

opened on September 2, is located in the former Kitch premises on the High Street.

“We are thrilled to be expanding our presence and investing in high streets at a time when personalised travel expertise is more valued than ever,” said a spokesperson for Ashdown Travel.

A Tale of Tinsel and Tax Relief

by Darren Austin at Synergee

As the festive season approaches, many businesses are planning Christmas parties and end-of-year celebrations. But before you pop the champagne, it’s worth considering whether HMRC might want a slice of the fun.

Fortunately, there’s a tax exemption available for staff events—provided certain conditions are met. If the event qualifies, businesses can benefit from an income tax exemption of up to £150 per head. This figure includes VAT and all associated costs, such as transport, accommodation, and venue hire.

To qualify:

• The event must be annual in nature (e.g. a Christmas party or summer BBQ), not a one-off celebration like a company 5-year anniversary.

• It must be open to all employees, though this can be limited to specific locations or departments.

The £150 limit is calculated by dividing the total cost of the event by the number of attendees, which may include employees, their guests, and even non-

employees. If your business hosts more than one annual event—say, a summer party and a Christmas dinner—the combined cost per head must stay within the £150 threshold to remain fully exempt. If the total exceeds this, only one event can be exempted. For example, if one event costs £100 per head and another £75, it would be more tax-efficient to exempt the £100 event and treat the £75 one as a taxable benefit.

It’s important to note that the exemption applies to the event itself, not the individual employees. So, if an employee only attends the non-exempt event, they’ll be liable for tax on the full amount of that benefit.

If employers want to spare their staff from any tax liability, they can enter into a PAYE Settlement Agreement (PSA) with HMRC. This allows the business to cover the tax on behalf of employees by grossing up the benefit.

In short, with a bit of planning, your festive celebrations can remain joyful—for both your team and your tax return.

“Welcoming Tricia and her talented colleagues to our team strengthens our position as we broaden our reach and reinforce our reputation as a trusted, independent agency for today’s travellers.”

“Ashdown Travel has welcomed 10 experienced team members formerly from Baldwins Travel”

With branches now in Tunbridge Wells, Oxted and Sevenoaks, Ashdown Travel deepens its local roots while enhancing access to bespoke travel services. Under Tricia’s leadership, the expanded retail operation ensures consistent service standards and expertise across all locations. As part of the Advantage Travel Partnership, the agency offers clients competitive pricing and insider knowledge, paired with independent, expert advice.

The expansion reflects growing demand for personalised travel planning and the enduring value of face-to-face expertise.

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

Darren Austin

Retail revival at Royal Victoria Place

By Freya Hodge

Despite the loss of Poundland, new retailers are entering Tunbridge Wells, with two joining Royal Victoria Place (RVP) and three independent stores opening in Ely Court.

Popular budget shop, Poundland, closed its doors on Grosvenor Road for good this summer, due to the company experiencing an extended period of underperformance.

At the time of going to press, it is uncertain who will be the new occupier of this space.

However, Royal Victoria Place aims to get local shoppers excited with the announcement of a handful of new retailers opening in the town centre.

Modern cafe Jamaica Blue is set to open in the upper mall of RVP.

The coffee house will serve exclusive Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee and contemporary dishes, providing the perfect location for a caffeine hit or catching up with friends.

Michael Johnson, Franchise Development Executive at Foodco UK, said: “Tunbridge Wells is a vibrant and growing town with a strong local identity, making it an ideal location for our cafe experience.

“We’re confident Jamaica Blue will quickly become a favourite spot for locals.”

Additionally, RVP is welcoming another unique food and drink experience named Kochi Cafe.

Inspired by the Japanese fluffy pancake trend that took over the internet, Kochi Cafe will serve a wide variety of these flavoured, signature pancakes.

The cosy venue will also serve a range of specialty drinks, including Strawberry Matcha and Pistachio Coffee Latte.

Vito Yu, Director of Kochi Cafe, said: “Our menu will adapt to the seasons, so customers can always enjoy dishes made with the best and freshest produce available.”

A new mix of independent retailers is also opening in the quirky Ely Court.

Frook Eats, a shop producing freshly prepared frozen meals, is offering customers a high-quality and mouthwatering alternative to standard frozen food.

Ged Lydiate, Owner Director of Frook Eats, said: “We are looking forward to providing all our customers with delicious, nutritious frozen ‘ready to cook food’, and being part of the Royal Victoria Place community.”

A family-run denture clinic, named The Denture Centre, will provide examinations, consultations, and treatments using the latest available technology.

They have over 35 years of Denture experience spanning over three continents and will deliver the most comprehensive Denture service in the area.

Lastly, Zerdo, an authentic artisan deli, will serve customers a gourmet range of cheeses, cured meats, specialty coffees, and fine wines.

Bogdan Halinga, Manager of Zerdo Gourmet Shop, said: “Our aim is to offer the community not just food, but a true taste of Europe, crafted with authenticity and care.”

Nicky Blanchard, Centre Manager at Royal Victoria Place, is thrilled with the new occupiers entering the space.

“We hope that customers will enjoy the eclectic mix of retailers and continue to support the growing number of brands and independent stores at the centre.”

Employment Rights Bill: Seismic changes on the horizon

By Molly Mackay, Associate Solicitor, Employment, CooperBurnett LLP

Late 2025 and the years that follow are set to bring some of the largest changes in employment law, seen for a generation. Whilst the Employment Rights Bill (‘the Bill’) continues to make progress through the parliamentary system (currently sitting with the House of Lords), we take an overview look at some of the proposals.

Zero hours contracts: The Bill proposes to grant a new right to a ‘qualifying worker’ to be offered guaranteed hours, reflective of the number of hours they have worked in a set period. Other new, proposed rights include the right to reasonable notice of cancellation or change of shift (and payment in such situations) and the right to bring Employment Tribunal claims in respect of rights regarding guaranteed hours and shifts.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): Currently, eligible employees can access SSP following the first three days of absence, known as ‘waiting days’. These will be removed under proposals, as will the requirement to earn above the Lower Earnings Limit. Consequently, all eligible employees, regardless of earnings, will be able to access the lower of either, the SSP weekly rate or 80% of their normal weekly earnings, from day one of sickness absence.

Employment Tribunal time limits: The current proposal is to increase the time in which a claim in the Employment Tribunal can be brought from three months to six months. This could increase the number of claims, as potential claimants now have an extended period in which to lodge the claim.

At the time of writing, these changes are yet to take effect, but it will be those employers preparing now, who will be best equipped for the inevitable changes in the employment law landscape.

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

Visit Kent ceases trading

An organisation that actively promoted tourism in Kent has stopped operating Kent County Council (KCC) has announced.

Visit Kent went into liquidation after its partner company, Go To Places, folded

Paul King, cabinet member for economic development and coastal regeneration, said that the ‘visitor economy of Kent is likely to suffer’ as a result.

Mr King added: "This is a sad day for Kent and will undoubtedly impact the profile and marketing reach of our great county as a tourist destination.”

The visitor economy in Kent is worth £4bn and represents 11% of all jobs in the county.

"We will be writing to government to seek support for the sector, but our

immediate priority is to support the board as arrangements are made for next steps with staff and forthcoming activities,” continued Mr King.

“The

decision to cease trading

was a result of a challenging economic climate”

Doug Bannister, chair of Go To Places, said the decision to cease trading was a result of a ‘challenging economic climate’ and blamed ‘rising costs for the sector’. This, he said, had made continued operations ‘increasingly unsustainable’.

Tudor Price, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce's chief executive, said that while Visit Kent would stop immediately, KCC could find another provider.

By Freya Hodge

Mike Martin, MP for Tunbridge Wells, has sent a petition to the residents of Goudhurst to stop HGV Satellite Navigation software from sending lorries through the village.

The large vehicles have been allegedly causing damage to local property, including St. Mary’s Church, which is no longer able to insure its boundary wall due to the number of times it has been struck.

Mike Martin MP said: “Residents in Goudhurst have been putting up with unacceptable traffic delays, and vehicle and property damage for far too long.”

HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) often use the A262, which passes through narrow roads and villages, when driving between Ashford and Tunbridge Wells.

The village of Goudhurst has narrow, medieval-like streets, architecture dating back to the 12th century, and is a conservation area.

There is an infamous, tight S-bend located in the centre of the village, which has caused large vehicles to get stuck and cause disruptive traffic delays.

However, it has been pointed out that an alternative route, along the M20 and A228, is both more efficient and suitable for the vehicles.

Local businesses step up to support hospice run 2025

From offering expert training tips to headline sponsorship, local businesses are stepping up to support Tunbridge Wells’ much-loved Hospice Run, back for its 19th year on Sunday 21st September.

Known as one of the best closed-road routes in the South East, the event sees hundreds of runners taking part to raise funds for Hospice in the Weald, boosted by support from local companies and individuals.

Hospice in the Weald is delighted that Savills Tunbridge Wells is once again the headline sponsor of Hospice Run – clocking up 19 years of loyal support.

Staff from Savills, which specialises in the selling, letting and management of residential property, are also taking up the challenge to run in the event, which offers a half-marathon, 5k and 10k routes and a family fun run, where children are encouraged to dress as their favourite hero.

Natasha Selbie, Director, Savills Tunbridge Wells, said: “We are very pleased to be supporting the Hospice Run for the 19th year. We are proud of our long-term association with such an important local cause, which has helped support so many, including our own families, friends and colleagues over the years.”

Thanks to G Collins & Sons, all participants will receive a special medal featuring a hand-drawn image by proud 11-yearold Connor Lawrence, who won a Hospice Run medal design competition at Pembury Primary School.

Personal trainers Olly McCarthy, Harry Gripper and Patrick Moorshead from Halo Gym have been offering training tips and advice in preparation for the big day while Impact Gym is kindly donating water for the event. Tesco Pembury Superstore is contributing towards refreshments for runners and The Massage Company will be in the event village offering complimentary massages to participants.

Lucy Edkins, Relationship Fundraising Executive at Hospice in the Weald, said: “We are so excited for our 19th Hospice Run and are grateful to the many local businesses and individuals who are granting us their financial support, time, and skills. Hospice Run brings runners, volunteers and supporters together to create a true community event. All funds raised ensure Hospice in the Weald can continue to provide free care and support for adults and children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.”

5 reasons why you need an LPA

It may be tiresome, but you’ll sleep better for it!

Accidents and ill health are unfortunately facts of life, yet the latest figures suggest only around one in five of us has Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) in place. Richard Shearing, head of the Private Client team at JE Bennett Law, outlines five reasons why this should be top of your life admin list if you haven’t already got round to it.

Preparing Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) allows you to appoint trusted people to make decisions on your behalf (over financial and/or health matters) should you ever lose the capacity to do so yourself. Yet too few business owners and professionals get round to organising them. Here’s why you should:

1. Without an LPA, your loved ones do not have the automatic right to make decisions on your behalf. Being the next of kin does not provide you with the necessary legal authority.

2. If you no longer have the capacity to make an LPA, your loved ones may need to apply for a Deputyship Order from the Court of Protection to be able to make decisions for you. This can take more than a year and is costly in comparison to preparing an LPA.

3. Your loved ones are unlikely to have access to your bank accounts to be able to pay essential bills on your behalf, or manage any existing investments, businesses or properties.

4. If urgent decisions need to be made – such as over care or housing arrangements, or for life sustaining treatment – without an LPA, your loved ones have a limited say on these matters. Medical and other professionals may have to make “best interest” decisions.

5. All these scenarios could cause conflict, delay and distress to your loved ones, in what is likely to already be an emotional or stressful situation.

If you’re unsure who to appoint – or want to add a professional attorney to safeguard your future – we’d be delighted to help.

JE Bennett Law is an industry-leading firm based in Tunbridge Wells built on a DNA of caring and empowering our clients. These values underpin our growing Private Client work, which has developed from our core expertise in Court of Protection, supporting people who find themselves in vulnerable circumstances.

Richard Shearing

Tunbridge Wells Business Awards launch to celebrate local success

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine hosts its first awards later this year which will celebrate our thriving local business community. Read on to discover how you can be a part of this inaugural event and discover who our sponsors and judges are...

Tunbridge Wells has long been known for its vibrant and diverse business community.

From leading law firms and expert finance companies, to independent retailers, property entrepreneurs and a prolific hospitality scene, there are so many dynamic companies operating in our town.

Whether they are large, long established firms, SMEs or fledgling start ups there is room for everyone and that is why we have decided to launch our first ever business awards in order to celebrate the great and the good and to shine a spotlight on the ingenuity, resilience, and ambition of the businesses that make Tunbridge Wells such a remarkable place to work.

The awards are open to all types of businesses and entries are now open. Simply head to our website www. twbusinessmagazine.com and fill in the form. For every entry received £10 will be donated to our chosen charity Taylor Made Dreams. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our main sponsor Dee Airey photography. Our other key sponsors can be seen on our awards categories breakout.

By entering your business it is more than just a chance to be recognised for excellence; it’s an opportunity to raise your company’s profile, strengthen your brand, and demonstrate your commitment to the local business community.

Nick Moore, CEO of JJL Media, publisher of this title and organiser of the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards says: “The launch of The Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine Awards is a fantastic initiative that promises to be a landmark event for the region.

“Far too often, the incredible success stories that define our business community have flown under the radar. These awards will change that. This is more than just an awards event; it’s a powerful platform to celebrate the innovation, resilience, and sheer passion that drives our town’s commercial spirit.”

He adds: “At JJL, we are proud to run an event that not only honours achievement but also acknowledges and creates the connections and inspiration that will help fuel growth for years to come. I encourage every business in the area to get involved – to put themselves forward,

to champion their peers, and to help us showcase the very best of Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge businesses.”

With categories designed to highlight everything from innovation and growth to customer service and sustainability, the Tunbridge Wells Business Awards promise to be a showcase of talent, determination, and local enterprise at its finest.

You will have until December to enter the awards which will then culminate in a prestigious drinks reception on 17th December at Thackeray’s Restaurant. For more information head to our website or email: hello@ twbusinessmagazine.com

MEET OUR JUDGING PANEL:

Pam Loch, Founder of the Loch Associates Group

Pam Loch is an awardwinning solicitor and expert on employment law and HR issues. She set up Loch Associates in 2007 with the vision of creating a business which responds to the need for commercial and bespoke legal and people solutions. Over the years she and her team have added on various services offering solutions in all elements of HR, employment, training and wellbeing as well as business law.

A dual-qualified solicitor, having qualified in Scotland, Pam has can identify with those who have had to navigate the many challenges any business leader may face. This makes her passionate about fairness and equality, diversity and inclusion and healthy, happy places of work that foster a collaborative and entrepreneurial approach.

Pam has been President of West Kent Chambers of Commerce and the local Law Society and also set up the community platform enTWine in 2020.

Rob Brophy, Angel Investor, CoFounder of OSTC and entrepreneur Rob is recognised as one of the UK’s Top 100 Angel Investors by Founder Forum. With over 25 years of trading expertise, he has built a distinguished career as both a trader and trainer. As Co-Founder and former owner of OSTC Ltd, he played a pivotal role in growing the company into one of the world’s leading proprietary

trading firms. Under his leadership, OSTC expanded to 14 offices worldwide, employing more than 450 people and earning a reputation as a major provider of market liquidity through electronic futures trading across all major asset classes.

Now based in Tunbridge Wells, where he has been a long-term resident, Rob focuses on professional coaching and mentoring. He advises and supports entrepreneurs on the challenges of scaling their businesses, drawing on his extensive experience in building and leading high-performance organisations.

Dee Airey, photographer, business coach, author and business owner

Dee Airey is the textbook definition of an entrepreneur. She has spent her whole professional life spotting opportunities for businesses and growing them from the ground up. She started out in the construction industry and revolutionised how the businesses she freelanced for operated their HR and general management. This led to Dee co-running her own business, Airey Miller, with her husband for many years. And just last year she launched a specialist recruitment, Construction Professionals HR & Recruitment company, based on The Pantiles.

Add to her career portfolio the roles of a highly successful portrait photographer, global business coach, published author and podcaster, and you have a pretty formidable force in our local business community.

Andy Evans, Co-owner of global content agency Eleven, investor and mentor

Andy is an advisor, mentor, and investor in digital businesses, spanning sectors from aviation to children’s entertainment, with a focus on performance marketing as a partner in the BLUE14 investment syndicate.

A lifelong technology enthusiast, he founded Net Communities, one of the UK’s first digital publishing businesses, later sold to Future plc in 2015. In 2005 he launched the UK’s first podcast production company, and went on to build and exit OnScroll, an advertising technology company acquired by a major US firm.

Today, Andy is Co-owner of Eleven, a global content agency, an active investor in more than 22 companies, and founder of RTWMG, the Royal Tunbridge Wells Media Group.

Siobhan Stirling, Managing Director of PR and marketing agency Sharp Minds Communications

Siobhan Stirling is a multi-award-winning communications expert, and the founder and Managing Director of PR and marketing agency Sharp Minds Communications. Specialising in original thought leadership to help brands achieve breakthrough growth, Sharp Minds deliver powerful, costeffective campaigns that enable their clients to punch above their weight.

Siobhan has spearheaded campaigns that have reached global audiences of more than 230 million, helping businesses to break into new markets, successfully launch new products and services, attract more valuable clients, and increase both turnover and profit. A finalist in the Sabre EMEA PR Awards, Siobhan was named Best Woman in Marketing and PR at the prestigious national Best Businesswoman Awards, as well as winning titles for five years in a row at the Kent Business Women Awards before being invited to join the judging panel.

Best employer

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CATEGORIES & SPONSORS

Outstanding business

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Team of the year

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Best large business

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Lifetime award

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Best SME

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Startup of the year

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Entrepreneur of the year

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Sustainable business

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“We’ve got to get Brock to the future”

Lines of lorries being held on the M20 and down to the Port of Dover, as part of Operations Brock and TAP, are synonymous with summer in Kent. Andrew Metcalf, Managing Director of PR and public affairs agency Maxim and Vice-Chair of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, examines their impact and whether there’s a solution...

MORE than half of all goods traded between Great Britain and mainland Europe use the Short Straits crossings between England and France; up to 16,000 freight vehicles travel through the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel every day.

Operation Brock is the traffic management scheme that can queue thousands of HGVs on the M20 as they approach the Channel ports during peak times. The smaller Operation TAP (Traffic Assessment Project), which is the first phase of Brock, is put in place by the Port of Dover to manage traffic through it and across the English Channel.

Brock has operated for most of the summer, and TAP is a twice a week occurrence. From leafy West Kent, HGVs corralled on the coastbound lanes of the M20 is probably not seen as an issue, but that’s not the case. I’d argue it’s damaging all of Kent’s economy, and especially communities in East Kent, notably Dover

and Folkestone, but also Ashford.

Operation Brock cost £35 million to develop and was first introduced in 2019 to address potential delays caused by Brexit-related border congestion. Now it is introduced when coastbound traffic disruption is anticipated due to increased

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holiday traffic volumes, bad weather or other events. The contraflow system sees HGVs destined for the cross-Channel ports held in restricted areas on one side of the M20 motorway, while other traffic uses a contraflow system on the opposing carriageway.

It’s also damaging Kent’s perception as a place to visit. When Operation TAP is in place on the A20, attractions like English Heritage’s Dover Castle report visitor numbers fall by half.

Tunbridge Wells-based Logistics UK, which champions the freight industry, believes it’s unacceptable to expect professional drivers, who support the nation’s supply chain that we all rely on every day, to not have access to proper sanitation or refreshment facilities which workers in offices, factories or schools take for granted.

So what can be done? Logistics UK has called on the government to implement a permanent solution to Operation Brock, ironically designed as a temporary problem. The business group has suggested the inland border facility at Sevington, near Ashford, developed at the taxpayer’s expense, could be converted into a fully equipped vehicle waiting area for HGVs. While Sevington isn’t a solution in the eyes of Kent County Council, it’s clear there’s a need for big thinking to solve the issue.

Tunbridge Wells-based Logistics UK has called on the British government to implement a permanent solution to Operation Brock which would ease congestion and keep goods moving

At the same time as providing better driver welfare facilities, surely there’s an electronic queuing system that could release vehicles at the appropriate time, smoothing traffic flows around the ports.

Transport for the South East has identified the need for more secure overnight lorry parking along the M20/A20 and M2. The challenge is finding a site close to the ports that offers access to the road network that’s not been snapped up for other uses, such as new homes or commercial property.

Dover and Kent has suffered for more than a decade and the current situation is not sustainable. It’s great to have Logistics UK join others in the county calling for the government to develop a solution that keeps goods moving, and minimises disruption to passengers, businesses and local residents.

workplace costs the UK economy an astonishing £100 billion per year.

Here are a few simple tips to help you take care of your well-being as you return to work.

• Ease back in gently – Give yourself time to settle into your workload rather than rushing to catch up.

Back to work

• Set boundaries – Protect your work-life balance by logging off on time and taking proper breaks.

As many of us return from summer holidays and time off, it’s important to remember to look after our mental health as we ease back into work routines.

• Stay connected – Talking with colleagues or friends can make the return feel less overwhelming.

• Prioritise self-care – Whether it’s exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones, make time for activities that recharge you.

• Ask for support if you need it – Don’t hesitate to speak up if you’re struggling; most workplaces now have support structures in place.

Our chosen HR software partner, Breathe, highlights that evidence shows negative workplace cultures can have a profound impact on people’s health. In fact, research from Mind suggests that poor mental health in the workplace costs the UK economy an astonishing £100 billion per year.

Here are a few simple tips to help you take care of your well-being as you return to work.

• Ease back in gently – Give yourself time to settle into your workload rather than rushing to catch up.

As a Platinum Partner of Breathe, we truly believe it is the best in market HR software for SMEs. Many of our clients are already benefiting from the platform, by saving time, streamlining processes and managing their admin in an efficient way. If you would like to find out more about how Breathe HR can help and our exclusive offer, please contact us.

• Set boundaries – Protect your work-life balance by logging off on time and taking proper breaks.

• Stay connected – Talking with colleagues or friends can make the return feel less overwhelming.

01892 726060 or sophie@theforrestgroup.co.uk. www.theforrestgroup.com

• Prioritise self-care – Whether it’s exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones, make time for

Hitting all the right notes

Thousands of music fans flocked to the centre of Tunbridge Wells over the August Bank Holiday weekend to enjoy four days of live music for free courtesy of Local & Live.

The event, which this year celebrates its 20th anniversary, saw the likes of Americana-style solo singer, songwriter Scarlet Rosetta, The Varlies and The Polygons all take to the stage in Calverley Grounds over the weekend, with a number of fringe concerts happening on the Bank Holiday Monday at various locations including The Forum, The Sussex Mews, Trinity Theatre, Sankey’s and The Spa Hotel.

Local & Live was founded by musical maestro Paul Dunton two decades ago and he admitted that he still cannot believe how popular – and big – the event has become over the years.

“When we began with a few acts on the Pantiles bandstand, it was just a collection of friends trying to share their music with the town,” Paul explained when Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine caught up with him post this year’s series of gigs.

He also added how important it is that Local & Live remains free to attend – and that he said is all down to the support of Tunbridge Wells’ local businesses. “These include our headline sponsor Maxipay Accounting Services who help fund the hefty cost of staging the event.

“In return, Local & live stimulates activity in the town centre at a time of the year when the holidays would otherwise make things very quiet for its shops,” added Paul. The food and drink village was also populated by some of the town’s best suppliers.

This year the glorious weather helped make Local & Live extra special and saw many people flocking to Tunbridge Wells from out of area to enjoy the eclectic musical bill.

“I know it sounds like I’m repeating myself but this really feels like it was the best Local & Live yet,” said Paul.

localandlive.org

A bespoke approach

Rob Wheeler of Eridge Green Kitchens is not only a talented cabinet maker but now also a successful entrepreneur. Here he tells Eileen Leahy how he turned his passion for building dream kitchens, bathrooms, boot rooms and pantries into a fledgling lifestyle business that incorporates a stunning showroom and various exclusive partnerships with a number of high-end brands including Gaggenau, Sub-Zero Wolf and most recently Farrow & Ball. Eileen Leahy pulls up a stylish stool at his Crowborough HQ to discover more…

Entering into Eridge Green Kitchens’ showroom, positioned on the main crossroads of Crowborough High Street and located in a grand former Barclays Bank, I can feel my shoulders drop and my expectations rise.

For this is no ordinary showroom. The light-filled, lofty and labyrinth-like layout boasts a variety of high-quality kitchen set-ups – think cool country shaker chic to slick and streamlined city pad styles. In the main part of the space the surfaces are filled with covetable Le Creuset skillets, casserole dishes and coffee cups, while also on display are the latest hi-tech Gaggenau appliances including wine cabinets and oven tops plus a variety of cool handles and hardware options to choose from. Work your way through the showroom, and past the impressive bar area, which comes into its own when Eridge Green Kitchens’ MD Rob Wheeler and his team host social events, and you will find more stylish set-ups boasting Sub-Zero & Wolf fridges, state-of-the-art

Eridge Green Kitchens’ showroom boasts a variety of high-quality set-ups while surfaces are filled with covetable Le Creuset and the latest hi-tech appliance “

lighting and possibly one of the most striking pantries I have ever seen. Painted in a scarlet red with contrasting black and white tile detailing and the cleverest of storage options it is quite literally the larder of dreams for any foodie…

As first impressions go Eridge Green Kitchens’ customer-facing HQ is nothing short of incredible. Venture further out back and you’ll also come across a perfectly appointed boot room and smart utility space – but more on all of the above, as well as the plans for the rest of the

former period building, in a little while… Today I am here to catch up with Rob to discover how his business has been evolving since he launched his showroom in November 2024.

“Although we started the business in 2010 we didn’t actually acquire this showroom space until 2023. Originally I was looking for an out-of-town, destination-style premises but after spotting this building while sitting in traffic on Crowborough High Street I thought to myself ‘well, why not this?’.”

As previously mentioned, the building had housed a branch of Barclays Bank for many years and when Rob took on the lease he had to carry out a relatively substantial amount of renovation work in order to transform it into the magnificent space it is now.

However, the refurbishment project didn’t come without its issues, namely a leak which meant that Rob had to delay the official opening until November 2024.

“In a strange way that hold-up was quite fortuitous as it gave us the time to really

think about the type of brands we wanted in here and to make those meaningful connections with them,” explains Rob, who employs a team of eight.

Thankfully since then the showroom and the business itself has gone from strength to strength. I ask Rob what he thinks the company’s exponential success and growth is down to…

“We felt the best way we could show people what we do is by creating this luxury, customer-facing space,” he reveals.

“One of the struggles we had when we were trading with just a workshop as our calling card was a lack of customer confidence. Remember people are spending a lot of money when they are putting in a new kitchen and so to now have a showroom where they can see what we are capable of achieving for them makes all the difference.

“For people to walk in and browse the different styles of kitchen we can build

and immediately see the types of brands we are working with is a total gamechanger. Now we are literally selling a lifestyle. So many things are solely sold online now that very few of us have the opportunity to touch, smell and enjoy the quality of something but people can certainly do that here.”

Rob adds that he has worked very hard over the past few years sourcing and gaining the trust of some of the world’s most respected and quality-driven brands including Gaggenau, V-Zug, Quooker, SubZero Wolf and Bora ovens and hobs.

“We haven’t picked these brands on a whim, we have done our research and selected the ones which reflect the type of service we want to deliver. They are the best in the business at what they do and have a

“We felt the best way we could show people what we do is by creating this luxury, customerfacing spacees

reputation for excellent customer service.”

But that doesn’t just mean they only specialise in kitchens, adds Rob. Because he and his manufacturing team are all expertly trained and skilled cabinet makers and carpenters they can also make the bathroom or boot room of your dreams. Want a utility space that is as beautiful as it is practical? No problem. And if you’ve always wanted a walk-in wardrobe then you have come to the right place, he says.

Eridge Green Kitchens has two industrial units, also located in Crowborough, where they manufacture all manner of kitchen cabinetry, media units, cupboards for utility rooms, larders, bathrooms and bedrooms.

“Customers can ask us to make something from scratch or we can collaborate together – or they can ask for a variation on a theme we already have here on display. From day one of running this business I have always said ‘if you can draw it, I can make it’,” says Rob.

“When we just had the workshop for potential clients to visit I guess you could compare it to visiting Jaguar Land Rover and seeing just the components of the car being assembled and not the whole picture. Having this showroom, which will be a year old in November, has changed everything for us. All I kept thinking to myself, retrospectively, was why hadn’t we taken on a space like this years ago. It instantly broke all those barriers down,” Rob smiles.

Another huge bonus of having an Eridge Green Kitchens presence on the High Street has meant that the business has been able to mine another stream of revenue – retail.

“What’s different to our showroom compared to others is that you can come in and buy a scented candle, luxury blanket or lantern and walk out with it there and then. Again, it goes back to that

Images by Cameron Pettitt, Tradectory Media

notion of selling a lifestyle. No matter how big or small the purchase.”

And although the funky bar, with its stylish illuminated arches, marble detailing and faux fur stools is a great place for clients to sit and sip a coffee or glass of wine while discussing plans, Rob says that the second phase of the building’s redevelopment will include a designated area where people can sit and chat with Rob and his team in total privacy.

“We’re currently working on that and will also create another few spaces so people feel like they are walking into someone’s home and getting all that inspiration they need. Because actually we find that a lot of clients have no idea where to start, so having experts on hand to guide them will really help. On our bigger projects we already factor in a complementary 15 hours of an interior designer’s time so they can suggest certain things because most people, although they are spending a lot of money, don’t really know what they want.”

One of the interior designers Rob and his team are working with is Joss Miller,

who is a local and very well-respected industry professional. “She is great to work with as she is on the same page as us,” reveals Rob.

Eridge Green Kitchens is dedicated to the traditional craft of building bespoke kitchens and furniture by hand. The team, which Rob is hoping to expand soon, use traditional methods to manufacture and install bespoke furniture at the highest standard, accentuated by modern components, innovative technology and luxury materials.

“We design our products bespoke to our customers’ needs and desires,” adds Rob. As well as making good direct contacts with various upmarket, groundbreaking brands, Rob tells me that he has also worked the events scene too.

“The notion of something being ‘bespoke’ is actually often too loosely mistaken for ‘tailored’. And what we do here is totally bespoke

“We did the Kitchens Bedroom Bathroom (KBB) trade show and our goal going along to that was to prove that the notion of something being ‘bespoke’ is often too loosely mistaken for ‘tailored’.

“We took a whole Sub-Zero & Wolf display to KBB and people agreed that it was totally bespoke. For us the word ‘tailored’ means people just manipulating something that’s already pre-made. While we were there we met a lot of the contacts we’d made with the likes of Gaggenau and Bora and when they saw me and my colleagues they admitted that our presence indicated that we really do mean business and that meant a lot.”

Rob adds that he is trying to go for a very ‘industry-specific’ approach to what he and his team do.

“We’re very selective with our brands and only deal with a handful of companies at the moment as we don’t want to dilute our offering. But what we do offer has seen our footfall rocket as a result. This place really speaks to customers; it says to them ‘you want this’. And I think being on a high street people automatically trust that high street presence.”

Talking of trust and reputable brands, Rob tells me that he has just been appointed as a Farrow & Ball paint ambassador.

“That’s something that is very exciting because no one else stocks that brand of paint in the immediate area and we have also been given permission to mix it. So it really is a win-win for us because not only will we have that exclusivity, we will also use the paints on our cabinetry and in turn will attract further footfall as soon as we place the company’s branding outside our premises. The power of Farrow & Ball is quite something,” laughs Rob.

He says that the machine should be up and running by the end of October and that there will be a launch event to mark

its arrival, so advises people to keep an eye on Eridge Green Kitchens’ socials for more details on that.

In terms of how Eridge Green Kitchens place themselves price-wise would they say they are competitive?

“We are very, very good value. And remember, we are not just bespoke in product but also bespoke in service. There is no set transition from start to finish as every project and client is different. All our services are handheld and we’re happy with that. We don’t want to grow any larger at the moment as we are more focused on refining our customer services and making that journey the best it possibly can be. If anything we want to expand sideways rather than upwards.

“I’ve done a lot of research into how I can maintain a business model that is relatively personal, and one that I can keep a grip on but to also generate more revenue. For us that is the majority of people coming to us for their kitchens but then discovering we also sell tiles –and can lay them – or have access to all these amazing brands such as Farrow & Ball and Gaggenau. Again, it’s about selling that lifestyle to people. But also it is about getting the balance right and not expanding too quickly.”

Rob tells me that he’s never happier than being onsite and seeing a job come to fruition. “I’m a trained cabinet maker but I also run my own business

We are very excited to have been asked to become an exclusive Farrow & Ball stockist. We will be able to mix and sell paint from the end of October “

so seeing the two fuse together is always an amazing thing. I enjoy being with my customers and colleagues and seeing the end product.”

Rob’s team are a talented and very loyal one, he says, with most of them having been with him for three years plus.

“It does feel like we have really hit the sweet spot. Everyone is happy and

earning and we are fortunate enough to be in the position of actually turning down work at the moment. What we can provide here is a really 360 comprehensive service and be with clients from the start to the finish of their build. Most will not want to go here, there and everywhere or put things out to tender and not know what the next step is. But here we can take them through every step of the process.

“And I always say that if we don’t sell everything they need here we’ll know someone who does and I think our clients really like having that confidence and trust in us. We are all about maximising our services and getting the best results possible. It’s so much easier to be collaborative than combative.”

eridgegreenkitchens.co.uk

“Neatsmith is all about bringing luxury and personalisation to your home”

Tunbridge Wells High Street has just welcomed Neatsmith to its retail landscape. Eileen Leahy talks to its founders Philipp and Mathew Nagel about what makes this interiors business, specialising in walk-in wardrobes, dressing rooms and home offices, a go-to name for bespoke design, craftsmanship and timeless style...

Firstly we'd like to say how pleased we are that Neatsmith is opening one of its showrooms here in Tunbridge Wells. What was the thinking behind this?

We’re absolutely delighted to be opening our first showroom in Kent, a region we’ve wanted to be part of for some time. Tunbridge Wells, with its vibrant high street and strong sense of heritage, felt like the natural choice. It’s a community that values quality and design, which aligns perfectly with Neatsmith’s ethos of craftsmanship, innovation, and bespoke service.

We’re really looking forward to welcoming local homeowners into the new showroom and helping them create beautifully designed spaces that enhance their homes.

How would you best describe the essence of Neatsmith and what it can offer its clients?

Neatsmith is all about bringing luxury and personalisation to dressing rooms, wardrobes and home living spaces. We focus on high-quality craftsmanship and tailored solutions that fit any home. Clients get premium, bespoke units that maximise space and style, backed by a team that is all about exceptional service.

You can deliver an impressive range of bespoke, beautifully handcrafted storage solutions. Which are the most popular?

Dressing rooms and walk-in wardrobes are still the most exciting spaces for clients to design with us, followed closely by home offices.

Everything from the initial consultation to the fitting of a Neatsmith project is thoroughly tailored. Why is this an important USP for your business?

Tailored solutions are crucial for our customers because they are buying something that will potentially be in their property for decades. It is also more personal and enjoyable this way for us, and most importantly, our clients.

Is there an average build/lead time on certain types of projects or is everyone totally unique?

It is generally 8-12 weeks, but lead times are more a result of our fitting capacity as we only have full-time fitters

We’re really looking forward to welcoming local homeowners into the new showroom and helping them create beautifully designed spaces that enhance their homes

and never sub-contract. This gives us a lot more control over the quality of, and care during, the installation. All of our manufacturing takes place in our North London factory.

What are you looking forward to most about trading here in Tunbridge Wells and how many are in the showroom team?

Amanda and Christina will be running the showroom and are especially looking forward to making Neatsmith the go-to name in bespoke wardrobes and furniture in the Tunbridge Wells area. www.neatsmith.co.uk

Philipp and Mathew Nagel

Family Court Hearings – What are they and

By: Craig Richardson, Associate Solicitor, Berry & Lamberts Solicitors

WHEN relationships break down, it’s not always possible to resolve everything privately, especially when children or finances are involved. In such cases, the Family Court in England and Wales provides a structured way to resolve disputes fairly, with the child’s welfare at the centre of everything.

What Do Family Court Hearings Cover?

Family Court hearings deal with two main types of issues: private law matters and public law matters.

Private Law Matters

These arise when individuals, such as parents, spouses, or cohabitants, can’t reach agreement.

• Child Arrangements: Courts help decide where a child will live, how much time they’ll spend with each parent, and other key decisions like schooling or medical treatment. These cases often follow separation or divorce and may also involve contact with extended family, such as grandparents.

• Financial Issues: Divorce and separation often require decisions about dividing property, savings, and debts. If couples

can’t agree, the court can make a legally binding decision.

Other Family Disputes: Sometimes, other relatives like grandparents or guardians seek involvement in a child’s life, which may require court intervention.

Public Law Matters:

These involve a local authority stepping in to protect a child’s welfare.

• Local Authority Intervention: If social services are concerned about a child’s safety, they can apply to the court for protective measures.

• Care Orders: These place a child under the care of the local authority, either temporarily or permanently, if staying at home is deemed unsafe.

• Emergency Protection Orders: Used when a child needs immediate removal from danger.

• In all cases, the court’s primary aim is to ensure the best outcome for the child.

When Do Family Court Hearings Apply?

Applications to the Family Court are generally a last resort, used when other methods, such as mediation, fail. They might apply:

• After an Application: A parent, relative,

when do they apply?

or local authority must formally apply for a court order.

• When Agreements Fail: Mediation is encouraged first, but court proceedings may be necessary if no resolution is reached.

• When a Child’s Welfare is at Risk: If a child’s safety is at risk, the court can act quickly.

• Following The First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA): To help parties identify the key issues and, ideally, reach an agreement without a full trial.

• After Fact-Finding Hearings: In complex cases involving serious allegations, the court investigates before making decisions.

• At Final Hearings: If no agreement is reached, both sides present evidence and the judge makes a binding decision. Family Court hearings can be daunting, but they exist to ensure that the best and fairest decisions are made when it’s not possible to agree privately.

berryandlamberts.co.uk

Driving business the smart and sustainable way

Paul Langridge, founder of Dent Rewind, explains why the pioneering technique he and his team employ makes his car repair service so unique...

So Paul, you established Dent Rewind in 2007. What was your vision for running your own business?

When I started Dent Rewind, my vision was pretty straightforward: I wanted to offer a service that combined real craftsmanship with convenience. I’d worked in the industry for a while and saw a gap with people either overpaying at big body shops or getting low-quality mobile repairs. I knew there was a better way. One of the things that set us apart early on was that we were one of the first dent removal companies to operate from a static site, rather than being fully mobile. That allowed us to offer a more controlled environment for high-quality repairs while still keeping things affordable. The goal was always to build a business people could trust and for doing things properly, every time.

What would you say has changed over the past two decades?

The core vision for the business has definitely remained the same and that’s delivering high-quality, honest repairs and putting the customer first. But the way we do things has evolved. The vehicles, technology, tools, and customer expectations have all changed, and we’ve adapted with that. What started as a one-man operation has grown, but we’ve kept the same standards. So while the industry’s changed a lot, our commitment to doing the job right hasn’t wavered.

What key factors do you attribute to Dent Rewind's ongoing success?

I'd say Dent Rewind’s ongoing success comes down to consistency, quality, and trust. From day one, we’ve focused on doing the job properly - not cutting corners - and that’s helped build a loyal customer base. Word of mouth has played a big part in our growth. People know they can rely on us, and that reputation has come from years of honest work and treating people right. Another big factor is the environment we’ve created. We make a real effort to ensure everyone feels welcome, whether you’re a car enthusiast or someone who’s never dealt with a repair shop before. That inclusive, respectful approach has made a real difference, especially in an industry that hasn’t always felt approachable to everyone

“

Dent Rewind’s ongoing success comes down to consistency, quality, and trust. Word of mouth has also played a big part in our growth

To those who may not be familiar with the Paintless Dent Removal process you specialise in, can you briefly explain what it is?

Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) is a method used to remove dents and dings from the body of a vehicle without the need for replacement parts, painting, sanding, or body filler. It's a cost-effective and quick alternative to traditional auto body repair, especially for dents where the paint is still intact.

How did you come across this more sustainable, eco-friendly way of repairing car damage?

I’d had a lot of experience working and training in car bodyshops as an apprentice and therefore saw the amount of work and the materials used. Someone introduced me to PDR which bypasses all these methods and I was very interested in this process and followed it through to where we are now.

Where are the majority of your customers from?

I would say 75% are from Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas, but we are gaining more customers from further afield. Our reputation means everything to us and although we are a fairly small team at the moment when the opportunity arises we would love to expand.

What do you enjoy most about running your own business?

Customer satisfaction – and working with a lovely team helps!

And what challenges are involved?

The ever-evolving cars and tools. And adapting to make the business greener for the environment.

GET IN TOUCH:

Website: www.dentrewind.com

Call: 01892 523766

Email: info@dentrewind.com

WHY DENT REWIND STANDS OUT FROM THE CROWD

There are other PDR providers in the region, but Dent Rewind stands out for several reasons:

Longevity and expertise –

Operating since 2007 with seasoned professionals provides a level of trust and craftsmanship that newer or less experienced local options may not match.

Reputation-driven demand –

Consistent 5star reviews and strong word-of-mouth referrals suggest they deliver reliably excellent work.

Personalised service – A small, tightknit team and direct involvement from founder-level leadership enhance consistency and service quality.

Strengths in EV service – Staff are fully qualified to work safely on electric vehicles, which not all PDR shops advertise.

Workshop Premises - We are one of a small few businesses of this kind that have our own workshop facilities, whereas others may be mobile and may have limited tools.

So while we may not be the only PDR business in Kent, Dent Rewind's combination of experience, reputation, quality, and personal service does set us apart.

Reclaim the power of networking in a digital world

Jess White of Spark Business Networking reveals the powerful benefits of making time to network and the reasons why it will enhance your company’s profile

In today’s world, growing a business can seem like an uphill battle. Networking is more crucial than ever, and yet faces a striking paradox. The era of digitalisation keeps us constantly connected, but we are more distant than ever.

The remote setups that allowed for continued work during the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the rise of AI technology have expanded possibilities and increased efficiency, but they can’t replace the human element that fuels effective networking.

While these digital tools are imperative for the ever evolving field of business, it cannot be denied that the enduring power of in-person networking remains at the heart of entrepreneurial success.

HERE ARE SIX REASONS TO NETWORK:

1. Opportunities for Growth - opens doors for new clients/collaborations/ partnerships.

2. Building Credibility - enhances your reputation. Remember, people prefer to do business with those they know and trust within the field.

3. Access to Resources and Knowledge meeting new people opens the door to learning new successful techniques, strategies and insights. It also saves time and money by avoiding mistakes others have already navigated.

4. Visibility and Brand Awareness - the more you are seen and interacted with, the more you are associated with being an expert in your field.

5. Collaboration and Innovation - exchanging ideas and working together sparks creativity and can help bring about new solutions.

6. Support -A strong community of like-minded individuals can help with encouragement and resilience in a sometimes very isolating role of entrepreneurship.

THE NETWORKING VOID

The pandemic created a networking void that many business owners are still navigating today. With human interaction impossible, entrepreneurs turned to Zoom calls and LinkedIn messages to keep their businesses afloat. These tools maintained activity, but often produced only surface-level transactional interactions, lacking the

depth and spontaneity of real connection. Furthermore, AI has amplified this trend through generated pitches and streamlined networking with automated follow-ups. Many entrepreneurs utilise such tools as time saving methods, however the result tends to feel rushed and impersonal. Authenticity is being traded for efficiency.

WHY IN-PERSON CONNECTIONS MATTER

Trust is an under-appreciated key factor in the networking world, leading to longer lasting professional relationships. Faceto-face interactions cultivate trust, which goes beyond what digital chats can offer. In-person meetings spark serendipitous opportunities that online calls seldom deliver. Due to the largely repetitive and standardised AI generated material, tone, presence, body language and a simple hand shake cuts through the digital noise and leaves a lasting impression. Ultimately people tend to collaborate/recommend who they know, like and trust, and no algorithm can replace that.

BLENDING TECHNOLOGY WITH HUMAN CONNECTION

There is no denying that digital tools/ AI are invaluable for scaling outreach,

streamlining tasks and enhancing productivity. But technology should act as a support system - not a substitute. To maximise your networking skills, create a ‘hybrid’ strategy. Utilise AI to create relevant lead lists and prepare insights, but reach out and build the relationships faceto-face for a more sustainable partnership.

REIGNITE THE HUMAN CONNECTION

So what can you do? Primarily just be active! Attend networking events, masterminds and conferences to provide exposure and fresh opportunities. Joining local networking groups is a great way to build consistent visibility and trust within your community. Prioritise relationshipbuilding over pitching or hard selling. Blend technology with human connection. In a landscape shaped by AI and remote work, networking remains essential. Technology should be utilised, but true competitive advantage lies in human connection. To cultivate this edge, step away from the screen and commit to attending a live event this month; the opportunities and insights that present will far outweigh the algorithmic outreach. Business is driven by trust, and trust is best built face-to-face. After all, it is said; it’s not about what you know, it’s about who you know.

Spark Business networking offers events, masterminds and a thriving community. Take a look at our website to see our upcoming events (guests can also book) and the huge range of options with joining the community and becoming a Spark member.

www.sparkbusinessnetworking.co.uk

Pickering prepares for a night to remember…

One of our most popular local charities, The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, turns 21 this year. Read on to discover how you can help celebrate this milestone in style in November – and how you can also raise vital funds...

The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre has announced plans for a ‘night to remember’, complete with black-tie, tiaras and all that glitters, to celebrate its 21st birthday on Saturday November 22 at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells.

The charity is run entirely by volunteers and last year helped 2,500 people whose lives have been touched by cancer, providing 1,000 therapy treatments and all free of charge.

“The Pickering 21st Birthday Fundraising Ball is to allow everyone to celebrate with

The Pickering 21st Birthday Fundraising Ball

‘Black tie, tiaras and all that glitters!’

WHERE: The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells

WHEN: Saturday November 22.

Guests arrive at 6.45 with carriages at midnight

WHAT: The £40 per person ticket price includes the following: Welcome drinks plus canapés

Two-course dinner

Live entertainment and dancing

TO BOOK YOUR PLACE EMAIL: fundraising@pickeringcancercentre.org

“We are offering whole tables to local corporates for sponsorship which means every penny raised on the night will go directly to support local people with cancer - Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre Chair of Trustees David Bartholomew

us and to further highlight our Key to the Door Campaign to help fund our move to our new home,” says David Bartholomew, Chair of Trustees at the charity.

“We will be selling our current Centre to pay for our next move but need funds for refurbishing our new building to make it as comfortable and welcoming for all our visitors and their families.”

He adds: “Since Pickering was set up in 2004, the local business community has played a key role in keeping our doors open. No one is turned away. We are so truly grateful for that ongoing support.”

The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, which is entirely self-funding, hopes to raise £150,000 through its Key to the Door Campaign and an amazing £50,000 has already been donated.

More vital funds will come from the 21st Birthday Fundraising Ball at The Spa Hotel. Tickets are on sale now and priced at £40 per person.

"To help cover the cost of the night, we are offering whole tables to local corporates for sponsorship and we have various packages available,” continues David Bartholomew.

"This will allow every penny raised on the night to go directly to support local people with cancer.”

For more information email: fundraising@pickeringcancercentre.org

Looking for the right business insurance? It’s closer than you think.

With over 280 agency offices across the UK, NFU Mutual are never too far away. From florists and farm shops to milliners and manufacturers, NFU Mutual Tunbridge Wells and Flimwell understand what a local business needs, because we’re one too.

Want to learn more? Get in touch at: Flimwell_agency@nfumutual.co.uk

Or pop by for a face-to-face chat.

01892 337488 Clarks Yard Flimwell East Sussex TN5 7NG

01892 337488 55 High Street Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1XU

CLOSER TO YOU.

CLOSER TO YOUR BUSINESS. CLOSER TO WHAT MATTERS.

Meet the Dark Master: the escape room that outsmarts expectations

Since opening in 2020, Dark Master has grown into a four-room adventure packed with cinematic sets, clever puzzles and unexpected twists. From corporate celebrations and family outings to marriage proposals, it has become a place where challenge meets unforgettable moments, says its owner Jane Smith...

Dark Master is the brainchild of my daughter Ellie. She wanted to run her own business and had all the creative ideas for an escape room, having played several herself over the years.

We opened Dark Master on May 28, 2020, on Plumyfeather Lane in Crowborough. Ellie designed all four rooms, and the sets were built at the same time by a professional set creator. But, as with any escape room, it takes time to perfect the puzzles and the flow. So, we opened with just two rooms at first: a jungle-themed adventure called Into the Reliquary and an aeroplane scenario called One Wing Airlines. They were, and still are, hugely popular and remain our best sellers. Gradually we added Shamley’s Toy Shop and, just last year, Arctic Tundra Station 108.

So who is the Dark Master? Well, he is not evil, but a clever and cunning games master. The challenge is to beat him at his own puzzles and escape within the time. My initial role was to help run the rooms, and both Ellie and in the beginning I worked six days a week, handling all the bookings ourselves. It soon became apparent we needed some help, so we began hiring for weekends and evenings. Five years on, I no longer run rooms very often, only in an emergency. These days I focus on marketing, staffing, and general admin. We now have a team of around six part-time staff who share shifts, and my daughter, who has returned from maternity leave, works two days a week. Ellie runs our social media and tweaks

any details in the rooms that might need attention. Rather excitingly, she has a fantastic design for a new room in the pipeline…

Our Dark Master team enjoy their interaction with the public, whether it is chatting about how something works or receiving feedback after a game. There is

We pride ourselves on immersive sets, attention to detail and unexpected twists “

never a dull moment. Of course, things sometimes go wrong: visitors lose locks or keys, props get broken, and with another team waiting a quick search or a dab of glue is often needed. Thinking on your feet is essential.

There are many escape rooms now, but we pride ourselves on our immersive, high-quality sets, our attention to detail, and our unexpected special effects. We even have a unique water feature that is not found anywhere else. The Facebook Escape Room Enthusiasts group heard about us and put us on the map in our first year, which really kick-started our success and for which we are very grateful.

We have many repeat customers who start with our 60-minute escape rooms and then move on to our 90-minute challenges. Some enjoy them so much they come back a year later to play again. They might remember the room but not the answers! We have even had a bride give our gift vouchers as wedding favours, hosted stag and hen parties, and seen three marriage proposals and even a wedding reception in our rooms! That is something we never envisaged, but it shows the appeal for enthusiasts.

Our customer base is wonderfully varied. Families often bring teenagers and grandparents, and that mix of wisdom and patience works well in an escape

room. We host birthday parties, exam celebrations, and groups who just want to have fun. Couples come for something more than just a drink at the pub on date night. Our players range in age from about 10 to 80.

We also have a small corporate base where local companies bring their teams for Christmas celebrations, to mark the completion of a contract, or simply as a treat. Escape rooms are a great leveller, with everyone focused on the same goal. Directors and juniors work side by side, and sometimes new, unexpected skills come to light.

If I had to choose three words to describe the Dark Master they would be unexpected, challenging and fun.

www.darkmaster.co.uk

facebook.com/DarkmasterEscapeRooms instagram.com/darkmasterescaperooms

Setting the standard for exceptional dining

For nearly a quarter of a century, Richard Phillips and his team have kept Thackeray’s at the top of its gastro game. Eileen Leahy discovers the key ingredients that have contributed to the restaurant’s enduring appeal...

Stepping over the centuries-old threshold at Thackeray’s and into this iconic establishment always feels very special.

The restaurant, which is owned and run by the talented chef Richard Phillips, who cut his culinary teeth working for the likes of the Roux brothers and Marco Pierre White back in the 1990s, has legendary status both here in Tunbridge Wells and beyond.

And it is easy to see why… Boasting a stellar epicurean reputation, an impressive three AA rosette awards and a listing in the Michelin Guide, it has been at the top of its gastro game for nearly 25 years.

Since opening in 2001, Thackeray’s has become the place to head for any discerning diner. With an ever-evolving menu that defines itself as ‘modern cuisine with creative flair’ there is a strong focus on seasonality and provenance, but never fads. ‘Consistency is key’ says Richard when we meet…

“We are always looking ahead but we never forget about the types of dishes that have been key to our success and reputation,” explains Richard.

With an outstanding wine list and the chicest of decors, Thackeray’s has long been the go-to destination for that special anniversary, first date, festive family

“

We all live and breathe what we do here at Thackeray’s and we know that we’ve got to deliver the best

gathering or corporate celebration.

As well as the traditional à la carte and brilliant value prix fixe lunch menus, there are also gourmet tasting and seasonal ones to enjoy. In short there is something for everyone.

“For us it is all about offering an experience at Thackeray’s,” explains Richard, who named the restaurant after the 19th century writer and novelist William Thackeray, who once resided in the famous double-fronted clapperboard building located just off London Road.

“No matter what your budget is we want you to be able to dine here. That’s why we work very hard on curating a lunch menu that is one of the town’s most affordable but also adventurous.”

I am talking to Richard in one of the establishment’s smart and intimate private dining spaces; the Pinkerton Room. It is located on the first floor of the charming period building; think

sloping ceilings, creaking wooden stairs and majestic beams, all offset by tasteful contemporary aesthetic detailing.

The room boasts a beautiful circular round table for eight, funky statement lighting, stunning artwork and even a copy of William Thackeray’s Vanity Fair novel on the wall. “We take great pride in ensuring the restaurant looks as good as possible,” explains Richard.

As well as the private dining areas, there are two sizeable dining rooms and a bar area downstairs, and outside is a lovely terrace which is busy during the summer months. Thackeray’s also offer an external fine dining catering business.

TRIUMPHANT TRIO: Richard Phillips, MD of Thackeray’s (middle) with Chef/ Patron Patrick Hill (left) and General Manager Gary Beach

Images by Stephanie Cable from Coffee2Clicks

Although Richard is still very much hands-on at Thackeray’s restaurant, it is Patrick Hill, the establishment’s Chef/ Patron, who is in the kitchen on a daily basis with his talented brigade.

Patrick’s history with Thackeray’s is a seasoned one. He worked there as a young teen before heading to the prestigious Westminster Catering College to officially train as a chef. He then returned to Thackeray’s where he helped the restaurant gain a Michelin star in 2012. After working for other establishments Patrick returned as Head Chef in 2017.

“We work together very well. We understand one another and also the Thackeray’s customer. That is paramount,” adds Richard.

Another valued member of the core team is Gary Beach, General Manager, who has worked with Richard for nearly two decades and, as a trained sommelier, is in charge of the establishment’s comprehensive wine list. “He totally understands what makes Thackeray’s stand out and how much work goes into that,” says Richard.

All of the above means that Thackeray’s boasts a huge amount of returning regulars.

“We are so fortunate to have so many customers who dine with us time and time again. But we always want them to discover something different every time

they visit. We never rest on our laurels as there is so much more competition out there now. But I like that, it keeps me and the team on our toes and puts fire in our bellies to be the best,” continues Richard.

And how does he and his team attract new customers to Thackeray’s?

“Well word of mouth is still the most powerful form of publicity I think, but we are well aware that social media is very important too. We want new clients to come along for a first date or an anniversary and hopefully we will have

them hooked.

“We all live and breathe what we do here and we know that we’ve got to deliver the best we can. We have held our three AA rosettes now for 24 years which is superb. We did have a Michelin star but chasing that kind of thing doesn’t really matter to me nowadays. Chasing a busy restaurant and a happy environment for our staff and diners is what’s important and I believe we have that here.”

www.thackerays-restaurant.co.uk

The exchange rate

Kadi Wyke spends her working hours as a Chartered Financial Planner for St James’s Place Wealth Management. Out of hours, she invests in people – opening her home to foreign exchange students. Nicola Withers swapped notes with her on money and mentoring...

Kadi, let’s start with your professional journey. How did you get into financial services?

I began in banking back in 1999 at Barclays. I was a personal banker within the branch network and quickly moved into management – by 2001 I was running a hub in Southeast London. From there I moved into international banking in Knightsbridge, working with non-resident European clients and UK resident nondomiciled clients, spending a lot of time networking with embassies and chambers. It was fascinating role – diverse, but very people focused.

What drew you to that side of banking?

I’ve always been interested in individual stories. I enjoyed sitting with clients, going through their plans, showing them how budgeting, loans and savings really work. It was especially rewarding helping younger people and students understand that a loan or overdraft isn’t just ‘free money’!

And you went on to work across different parts of Barclays?

Yes, I wanted to broaden my expertise, so I moved into Wealth Management at Barclays Private Bank. I dealt with high-value lending and international clients which was technical, but I missed the front-line interaction. I eventually moved back closer to home in Tunbridge Wells, working at Santander and then HSBC, advising on investments, wealth management and inheritance tax planning. In 2016, I joined St. James’s Place and two years later became a Chartered Financial Planner. I enjoy helping people with finance, budget planning and managing their funds – it’s very important to me.

Why’s that important?

Good financial advice shouldn’t be exclusive. Many people think that they need a certain level of wealth, but often they just need a plan. My banking background means I understand the whole financial cycle – lending, mortgages, investing – so I can give people practical, joined-up guidance.

So that’s the day job. But let’s talk about your other role – hosting foreign students. How did that come about? It started quite by chance. A neighbour (a Headteacher) was hosting exchange teachers through a charity called Starfish Malawi, and I’d chat to them about life in

For me, it’s all about guidance and support – whether that’s helping someone invest wisely or giving a teenager a safe and welcoming home “

Malawi, which reminded me of my school days in West Africa. She also hosted French students and I decided I’d like to give it a try. At the time my daughters Lizzie and Lili were 10 and 14, and my husband Simon and I thought it would be a great way for them to experience diversity and meet young people from other countries.

And it’s grown since then?

Yes. At first it was just summer exchanges, but now we host regularly during term time too. Most of the students are French, but we’ve had Dutch and Italian girls as well. They slot into family life: we drop them off at activities during the day, they’re home for meals, and we treat them like our own. Our girls’ GCSE French definitely benefitted – and they’ve kept in touch with some of the students, including a family trip to Toulouse last year.

What do you enjoy most about it?

Honestly, it’s the connections. We’ve had video calls with families, swapped updates and stayed in touch long after the students have gone home. It’s a bit like short-term fostering – there are teenage ups and downs to navigate – but it’s incredibly rewarding. And the girls are famous for taking “the best packed lunches” on their trips, which always makes me smile!

So whether it’s finance or fostering friendships, you’re helping people plan for the future?

Exactly. For me, it’s all about guidance and support – whether that’s helping someone invest wisely or giving a teenager a safe and welcoming home. Contact Kadi for financial advice at St. James’s Place (kadi.wyke@sjpp.co.uk). And find out more about hosting students at stephanieheymer@icloud.com

Kadi Wyke

JE Bennett Law Senior Partner Appointed to National Advisory Board

A Senior Partner at law firm JE Bennett Law has been appointed an Advisory Board member by the leading organisation for ensuring trusted financial advice for elderly and vulnerable clients.

Ian Macara, Senior Partner at specialist Court of Protection firm JE Bennett Law, has been appointed to the Advisory Board of the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA), recognising his extensive expertise in supporting elderly and vulnerable clients with complex legal, financial and care matters.

Established in 2008 as a not-forprofit organisation, SOLLA offers an accreditation that financial advisers can achieve to become specialists in working with older and vulnerable clients. The advisory board provides the Society support and guidance, including on the needs of SOLLA Accredited Advisers.

A SOLLA Affiliate Member, Ian is one of just sixty of the Office of the Public Guardian’s (OPG) accredited Panel

Deputies and one of only approximately ten of their Public Guardians. He is a fully accredited member of Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE)), a fully accredited member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP), a Dementia Friend with the Alzheimer’s Society and a member of the Professional Deputies Forum (PDF). Ian is a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500.

Macara of JE Bennett Law to the SOLLA Advisory Board. His wide experience as an accredited Panel Deputy for the Office of the Public Guardian, together with his longstanding experience as a practitioner in the legal landscape surrounding the elderly and vulnerable, will, I am sure, prove to be of tremendous value.”

Peter Barnett, SOLLA Advisory Board Chair, said: “It is with great pleasure that I am able to warmly welcome Ian

Ian Macara commented: “I am delighted to be joining the SOLLA advisory board. It is my goal to improve the quality of support the elderly and vulnerable receive to help them manage their financial, property and health affairs.”

jebennettlaw.co.uk

Cripps celebrates first solicitor apprentices qualifying

UK law firm, Cripps, is delighted to announce that its first solicitor apprentices, Aimee Mitchell, Megan Pitt and Rosie Harvey, have now qualified as solicitors. The firm was one of the first in the South East to launch the Trailblazer Solicitor Apprenticeship scheme in 2018, offering an alternative to the traditional university route. The programme combines academic study with hands

“Being one of the first firms in the South East to take on solicitor apprentices was a big step for us and seeing our first cohort qualify shows just how valuable this route can be”

on experience across different practice areas, with apprentices working towards qualification through the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

Fiona Chamberlain, future talent manager at Cripps, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Aimee, Megan and Rosie. They’ve shown real commitment and resilience since day one, and it’s been inspiring to watch them grow. It’s

wonderful to celebrate their success and the contribution they’re already making to our clients and colleagues.”

In September, they will step into their new roles as associates, with Aimee joining the commercial and tech team, Megan moving into corporate transactional, and Rosie focusing on specialist disputes. This milestone marks the next chapter in their careers and underlines the firm’s ongoing commitment to opening up opportunities in the legal profession and supporting the development of future lawyers.

Fiona added: “Being one of the first

firms in the South East to take on solicitor apprentices was a big step for us and seeing our first cohort qualify today shows just how valuable this route can be. We currently have 24 apprentices at various stages of their training, and this scheme continues to demonstrate that there are credible and rewarding alternative routes into law.”

Applications for the 2026 solicitor apprenticeship cohort open in October, continuing Cripps’ commitment to developing the next generation of legal talent.

cripps.co.uk

Aimee Mitchell, Megan Pitt and Rosie Harvey,

New Banking & Finance Appointment for Thomson Snell & Passmore

Thomson Snell & Passmore’s award winning Corporate & Commercial team has welcomed banking and finance specialist lawyer, Anthony Morton as a Partner. His appointment is a key part of ongoing, strategic growth plans for the department, led by Joanne Gallagher.

Anthony will work closely with colleagues across the Corporate M&A and Real Estate Finance teams, advising on a wide range of work including corporate finance, leveraged acquisition finance, asset-based lending, structured finance, refinancings, restructurings, MBOs and private equity.

He brings with him considerable expertise and experience as a finance lawyer, having worked for lenders and borrowers across a range of complex banking and finance transactions. He has previously spent a number of years with Pinsent Masons as part of its banking and finance team, where he advised on domestic and international projects, with predominantly London-based clients.

Prior to that he spent six years at Norton Rose Fulbright LLP in both London and

Frankfurt, as well as time at US law firm Milbank LLP and Magic Circle firms Linklaters LLP and Allen & Overy LLP (now A&O Shearman).

Thomson Snell & Passmore’s Corporate M&A team is building a growing reputation in the corporate mid-market space for providing high quality commercial advice to help ambitious businesses develop and grow. It has one of the largest teams in the region and regularly undertakes complex and multi-million pound transactions, including many private equity backed and cross border deals.

Joanne Gallagher, Partner and Head of Corporate & Commercial at Thomson Snell & Passmore commented: “Anthony’s deep sector knowledge and extensive experience will further enhance our banking and finance offering for lenders and borrowers, and I am thrilled to welcome him to the firm.”

Anthony Morton, Partner at Thomson Snell & Passmore added: “It is great to be joining a firm with such an excellent reputation, and a dynamic team with a business orientated ethos that mirrors my own.”

ts-p.co.uk

“I am really looking forward to this exciting new chapter with the firm”

CooperBurnett LLP has announced that Courtney Magnus has officially qualified as a Solicitor at the local law firm.

She joined the firm in March 2023 as a Paralegal and was awarded a training contract last year.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a trainee, having had the opportunity to get involved in both contentious and non-contentious work,” said Courtney, who has qualified into the Private Client team at CooperBurnett.

reflected on the eight years since she began her legal studies.

“It has been a long journey, with lots of highs and lows, but I am grateful for each and every opportunity that has been presented to me and for the people I have met along the way,” she commented.

“I could not have done it without the support of those around me.

“An important endorsement for our clients”

The expertise of leading Kent and London law firm Thackray Williams in supporting High Net Worth individuals has been recognised with influential sector rankings for both the Real Estate and Private Client teams. The Private Client sector has also made the finals of three categories of the British Wills and Probate Awards 2025.

The Chambers High Net Worth Guide 2025 has moved the Residential Real Estate team into a higher band as a National Leader (outside London) for High Value Residential work. It has also commended Partner Claire Josef, who heads the Bromley residential conveyancing team.

“These results signify Thackray Williams' dedication to providing the highest quality and insightful legal advice”

Elliot Lewis, who has headed the Private Client team since 2014, has also had his ranking for Private Wealth Law increased. Feedback used to assess the rankings included comments such as: "Elliot Lewis is the consummate professional and highly knowledgeable in his field. He has a great understanding of whatever the matter, challenge or request he is faced with." Claire Josef is cited as ‘experienced’ and ‘very able’.

Courtney was born in South Africa and completed her Bachelor of Commerce (Bcom) in Law degree at the University of Pretoria.

Following completion of her degree, Courtney moved to the UK to further her studies, where she obtained her Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) at BPP London, Waterloo, and her Masters in Legal Practice (Solicitors) at BPP London, Holborn. Courtney then joined TeamCB, having worked as an in-house paralegal. Delighted to have qualified, Courtney

A special thanks to CooperBurnett for having taken me on initially as a paralegal and then allowing me the opportunity to train at the firm. I am proud to be a part of TeamCB. I have learnt so much during my time as a trainee and look forward to this exciting new chapter with the firm.”

Partner Joseph Oates, Courtney’s training principal added: “It’s fantastic to celebrate Courtney’s qualification as a solicitor and know she has a great career ahead of her. As a firm, we have embraced the varied paths to qualification that now exist and it’s wonderful to see members of our team growing their careers in different ways.” cooperburnett.com

In the British Wills and Probate Awards 2025, the Private Client team has been shortlisted for both Tax & Trust Team of the Year and Probate Provider of the Year – South. Solicitor Kamran Chughtai, who qualified last year after joining Thackray Williams as a trainee, is a finalist for One to Watch Practitioner of the Year.

“I’m delighted that the Residential Real Estate team has increased its ranking in the Chambers High Net Worth Guide 2025,” agreed joint Managing Partner, Vikki Herbert. “Clients investing in and selling high value residential properties need to have confidence that their assets are being handled expertly. The independent endorsement by Chambers is an important barometer to give them peace of mind that their property affairs are in expert hands.” thackraywilliams.com

Kamran Chughtai, Claire Josef and Elliot Lewis

How to turn difficult resignations into smooth exit strategies

Gemma Farina, founder of

the award-winning independent human

resources

agency GFHR

Consulting, on how to manage difficult employee exits with confidence

In our work, we often hear how much our clients value when an employee resigns and leaves in a professional manner. A proper handover, a positive approach, and a smooth transition benefit everyone involved.

Most of the time, that’s exactly what happens, but unfortunately in our role as HR Consultants, we also see the other side. You might have an employee who has mentally ‘checked out’ and decides to make their feelings known. They might spread negativity among colleagues, refuse to pull their weight, or even attempt to persuade others to leave. In these cases, disruption can ripple through the business quickly and the last thing you want, is to be scrambling for solutions while the damage is being done.

“

The truth is, you can’t predict which employee will prove disruptive during their notice period – but what you can do is prepare

The good news? You do have options. The key is knowing these in advance so that you are well prepared.

Here are some suggestions on the best way to handle resignations in your business:

Keep them working, as long as they maintain professional relationships

If a leaver is still doing their job properly, great as you get the benefit of their input right up until the end. But it’s always worth checking in and making expectations clear for their remaining time.

Have an honest conversation

If standards start slipping, don’t ignore it. A direct but fair chat about what needs to change often resets things. Document the conversation so there’s no confusion later.

Adjust their role if needed

If the behaviour continues, you can reduce client contact, scale back access to sensitive information, or move them into tasks where they’re less able to cause disruption.

Use garden leave if needed

Sometimes, it’s safer to keep them out of the business altogether while still paying them. Garden leave means they remain employed, but can’t access systems or contact colleagues or clients. This is particularly helpful if you’re concerned about protecting information, client relationships or overall employee morale. This usually needs a specific clause in your employment contract, but it’s always an option you can propose.

Pay in lieu of notice for a clean break

If disruption is too much to manage, you can end their employment immediately and pay them what they would have earned during their notice period. Again, this is easiest if your contracts include the right clause but is something that you could still propose.

Preparation makes the difference: The truth is, you can’t predict when an employee will prove disruptive during their notice period. What you can do is prepare. The businesses that manage exits smoothly tend to have the basics in place: well-drafted contracts with garden leave and pay-in-lieu clauses, plus a clear leavers’ process to cover handovers and system access.

If you’re running a small business having a clear process really does make all the difference. It means when someone resigns, you can protect your business and your people without unnecessary drama. That way, you can focus on moving forward, rather than managing disruption.

If you’d like some support with designing your leaver process then we would love to help.

GET IN TOUCH WITH GFHR Call: 01892 300360 Email: info@gfhr.co.uk

Game changing… how local business supporting sports clubs is a win-win

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Pamela Wilkinson highlights the important link between local sports clubs and businesses and how forming meaningful partnerships can result in a win-win situation for everyone involved...

As the cabinet member for sport, leisure and health at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) I believe passionately in the power of sport to improve physical and mental wellbeing.

I have seen firsthand the enormous enjoyment residents get from participating in sport. However, as central government funding for local sports and local government continues to diminish it is becoming increasingly difficult for local councils to provide support for local sport.

Local businesses can play a crucial role in filling the gap and ensuring that community sports continue to thrive. Sponsorship money is the lifeblood of many grass roots clubs, funding everything from new equipment and pitch maintenance to coaching and youth development programmes. Tunbridge Wells cricket, rugby, hockey clubs and tennis clubs as well as several local

“

Local

businesses can play a crucial role in filling the gap and ensuring that community sports continue to thrive

football teams have all benefited from generous and much needed sponsorship from local businesses.

Local clubs are often run by dedicated - but stretched - volunteers so as well as sponsorship, business owners or employees could volunteer their professional skills to the sports club. For example, if you run or work at an accountancy firm you could offer pro bono financial management. Similarly, a marketing professional could help with social media and promotion, or a lawyer could assist with legal and governance matters. This expertise can be invaluable to an amateur club.

Businesses can offer to match funds raised by a sports club's own fundraising efforts, such as a crowdfunding campaign. This provides a powerful incentive for the community to donate, knowing their contributions will be doubled. Tunbridge Wells Football Club, which has deep

From exploring new tools to embedding AI across your business, we know innovation isn’t without its challenges. At Cripps, we’re committed to giving advice that’s practical and focused on what matters to you most.

Our AI governance toolkit gives you the confidence to harness technology responsibly, building on principles of trust, fairness and accountability.

Solving your problems and championing your ambitions, we’ll work with you to shape a future powered by responsible AI.

cripps.co.uk/aitoolkit

seated community links with the town and which is sustained by a determined group of supporters is an example of a local club which would be grateful of business support. If your business is interested in the opportunity to sponsor, or potentially match a future crowd funding initiative, at this much-loved club please contact Brian Wates directly at brian.wates@twfcexec.com

Donating to local sports clubs offers a range of significant benefits for businesses extending far beyond simple philanthropy. The worlds of sport and business are more interconnected than

they might appear with each sector providing tangible benefits to the other. It is worth emphasising the benefits local business can gain from supporting local sports. This could include increasing brand recognition by sponsoring a local team. A business logo on a sports kit or a team website provides positive brand visibility to a targeted local audience and is often a more cost-effective and affordable strategy than traditional advertising.

Sport also provides a great social setting for cementing relationships and finding new business partners or clients. Similarly, encouraging employees to get involved with sport can also improve the workplace substantially. For example, a company five a side team can create a sense of team

spirit that extends beyond the workplace. Offering subsidised gym membership is an attractive perk and will not only attract new employees but also improves staff retention. Sport has the added advantage of improving employees’ physical and mental health which can directly contribute to a reduction in sick days and an increase in productivity.

Tunbridge Wells is extraordinarily fortunate in having such a wide range of sporting clubs for its residents. By working together, TWBC, businesses and sports clubs can continue to sustain a strong, healthy sporting community even when government funds are hard to come by. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.

GET IN TOUCH:

If your business can help support our local sports community and clubs please contact Pamela Wilkinson at pamela. wilkinson@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Image by John Sutton

Image Forresters FC

Image St Johns Tennis Club

“We

have a responsibility to contribute to a carbon neutral future”

In his latest column for Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine this month, Alex Green, CEO of RTW Together BID talks about the organisation’s commitment to sustainability in the town…

One of the three key pillars of the BID’s work is ‘enhancing our town and the local environment’, which includes taking action to address the climate emergency by supporting our local business community to play their part.

In April this year, the BID arranged the first ‘TW Spring Clean’ (part of the Great British Spring Clean). We invited individuals, work teams and community organisations to join us to collect litter, remove graffiti and clean the town. In its inaugural year we saw 154 people give 500+ hours, collecting 150 bags of rubbish. If you want to protect our wildlife and the places you love, please join us next spring.

We welcome any ideas for additional initiatives to promote a sustainable, nature and environment-friendly culture in Tunbridge Wells

We launched our ‘Don’t Litter’ messaging this summer for businesses to use the signage on their shop windows and doors, in offices and staff break rooms and on vehicles.

The BID was one of the first organisations to support the amplifi initiative. The brainchild of Pete Kenyon of Cripps LLP, and Jenny Kitchen of Yoyo Design, this nonprofit organisation provides an online resource, sectorspecific meetings, and events to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and help businesses reduce their environmental impact and work towards

climate goals.

We provided a grant and promotional support to the TW Climate and Nature Fair, taking place on Saturday 13 September from 10am5pm in Calverley Grounds. As residents of this historic town, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, it is our responsibility to protect the nature and contribute to a carbon neutral future.

In August, we launched a new Recycling Box Scheme initiative, providing an all-in-one recycling Zero

Waste Bin from Terracycle. The boxes can recycle a wide range of items including clothing, coffee bags and capsules, crisp packets, office supplies and stationery to name just a few. The box can be dropped off at a business and once filled up, you scan a code to arrange for collection – it’s as simple as that. The initiative ordinarily costs £395 per box, but the BID are offering the first 20 BID members a free box, the remaining boxes can be purchased at £80 for BID members/ £120 for non-BID members.

Having a channel for hard-to-recycle waste ensures we do NOT send waste to landfill that we can recycle. It’s a winwin, better for the environment, and a great proactive message that you are taking responsible action, encouraging customers to repeat buy from you if

they can recycle with you.

We welcome any ideas for additional initiatives to promote a sustainable, nature and environment-friendly culture in Tunbridge Wells. Please feel free to send me your ideas biddirector@ rtwtogether.com.

To find out more about amplifi, please visit www.amplifi.tw

To request a Zero Waste Bin or ‘Don’t Litter’ signage, or to register interest for the TW Spring Clean 2026, please contact Grace, our Project officerprojectofficer@rtwtogether.com.

Inspiring action and impact

For this month’s Community Heroes feature, Sarah Raine met up with Jill Ruddock, Club President of the Soroptimists International in Tunbridge Wells to discover more about this inspiring society...

For those who haven’t heard of Soroptimists International, can you explain a bit about the organisation?

We often say it’s the world’s best kept secret! Founded in 1921 in Oakland, California, it’s an apolitical, non-religious member-based women’s organisation committed to making a difference to women and girls worldwide. The name comes from the latin, ‘soror’ meaning ‘sister’, and ‘optimum’ - ‘the best’. Tunbridge Wells Soroptimists formed in 1946 to provide support to refugees after WWII.

How has the group evolved since the early 1920s?

Today, there are 3,000 clubs and 66,000 members worldwide, and we have special consultative status at the United Nations for our work on gender equality and education. Our vision is that all women and girls achieve their individual and collective potential, realise their aspirations and have an equal voice and we do this through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities.

How long have you volunteered and what’s your role in the Tunbridge Wells branch?

I joined in 2022, following a vigil held on the steps of the Town Hall in memory of Sarah Everard. The vigil was organised by the Soroptimists. I liked what I saw and went to a meeting and liked what they did, so I joined! I became President Elect in 2024, and became President in April 2025, and will serve for two years. We currently have over 30 members but are always looking to grow that number. We are discussing the option to set up a Soroptimists School Club in the area, for teenage girls to meet and create campaigns to help women and girls.

From Local to Global: Projects with Real Impact

Discover just some of the work the Soroptimists do in Tunbridge Wells...

• In the early 2000s, we worked with rail networks to influence the design of carriages and stations for lone female travellers to feel safer. We worked with the Police and TWBC to create the Spotlight on Safety Report 2022, moved by the assault of a woman on Major York’s Road in 2021, and the murder of Sarah Everard in London in 2021

• We worked alongside Greg Clark in 2022 and 2023 on the ‘Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023’ bill, which received Royal Assent and is now an Act of Parliament. We are grateful to Mike Martin MP, who has taken the initiative in 2025 to push the government to issue a statutory instrument, so the Act can hopefully come into effect soon

• We financially support ‘Lend with care’ projects, globally loaning women entrepreneurs funding to help them establish their business (www. lendwithcare.org)

• We are a female voice on the Town Forum Management Group. We worked alongside Laura Toop’s Safe Havens

‘Empowering Women, Changing Lives’

The Soroptimists’ platform helps to improve the lives of women and girls: Whilst some feel there is now gender equality, this sadly isn’t the case. Women are still being marginalised, disadvantaged, ignored or feel vulnerable. We are committed to lobbying and campaigning to ensure this changes. To put this into context:

• A women is killed every 3 days by their partner

• The gender pay gap is 7%

• 40,000 women are raped each year in the UK

• The Home Office budget is £20 per domestic violence crime reported, whereas Prevent terrorism reports have a £7,300 budget

initiative, inviting local businesses to offer a safe space for women in need and are lead organisers for an event on 8 November, focusing on women’s safety

• Each year a group of Soroptimists walk to support the Reclaim the Night initiative, to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. It is also the first day of the global ‘16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence’, which concludes on Human Rights Day on 10 December. We will have a curated space in The Amelia Scott to mark the campaign. Please do wear or display the colour orange during the campaign, a symbol of hope and a future free from violence

• We are currently running the ‘Listening Project’, hearing the needs of diverse local groups of women. This will lead to a long-term action plan, as well as implementing quick actions, such as the women-only swimming session at the leisure centre following a request from a Muslim women’s group

GET IN TOUCH:

The Tunbridge Wells Soroptimists meet on the third Monday of every month at 19:30 at Chamberlain Court on Mount Ephraim. Email Lorna at lorna. blackmore@icloud.com in advance if you would like to come along. If you want to find out more information then please follow us on Facebook or Instagram @Soroptimist Tunbridge Wells or email situnbridgewells@yahoo.co.uk.

Jill (fourth from left) was host of a Soroptimist event, pictured with speakers for International Women's Day 2025

Why second hand is first choice…

Sarah Raine explains all about Second Hand September and suggests easy ways we can all get behind this growing movement in sustainability

Second Hand September is an annual campaign, originally launched by Oxfam in 2019, to encourage people to avoid buying new clothing for the entire month of September. Instead, people are encouraged to opt for second-hand items from charity shops, vintage stores, or to participate in clothing swaps.

The campaign aims to reduce waste and combat climate change by reducing the demand for new clothes - and has grown to include consumer electronics, music, books and homewares. So, what can you do? Well here are just a few suggestions…

Donate:

Got some old clothes, books, devices or vinyls lying around that you don’t have a use for anymore? Donate them to charity

Purchase:

Even if you don’t have items to donate, but keen to support the movement, why not invest in some pre-loved fashion, music or consumer electronics?

Lend or recycle:

In a number of communities within the borough, there are great sharing initiatives where neighbours give away unwanted items, or borrow items for ad-hoc use, to save additional unnecessary purchases.

Socials:

If you do manage to grab a second-hand bargain, don’t forget to share your discoveries using #SecondHandSeptember. In addition to all the great charity shops we have here in Tunbridge Wells including Oxfam, Barnardos, British Heart Foundation, Hospice in the Weald and Refugease, there are also plenty of second hand shops too:’

Through your wardrobe (Second-hand luxury clothing) www.throughyourwardrobe.co.uk

Adrian Harrington Books (vast collection of books) www.harringtonbooks.co.uk

CeX (Retail chain buying & selling video games & digital devices, including mobile phones & laptops) www.uk.webuy.com

TW Record Exchange (buy, sell and trade records and CDs in a real record store) www.sugarbushrecords.com

Don’t forget you can also upcycle/renovate/repurpose too. Why not try the Repair Café The Tunbridge Wells Repair Café will be held on Saturday 27 September from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Trinity Theatre (Church Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1JP). The cafe offers free repair services for household electricals, mechanical items, textiles, IT, and more, with repairs performed by volunteer experts.

Eco-Friendly Dent Removal: A Smarter Way to Care for Your EV

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, drivers are rethinking every part of car ownership — including how we repair them. For eco-conscious EV owners, traditional body shop methods can feel out of step with the sustainability goals that drew them to electric driving in the first place. That’s where companies like Dent Rewind come in, offering a cleaner, greener way to handle minor damage. Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) is a technique that gently reshapes metal panels without sanding, repainting, or replacing parts. Unlike conventional repairs, PDR doesn’t rely on chemical fillers or paint, which often release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the environment. It also avoids the energyintensive baking process used in many body shops.

This matters even more for EVs. These vehicles are designed for efficiency — any unnecessary part replacements or poorly fitted panels can slightly reduce aerodynamics and range. PDR preserves the factory finish and structural integrity, keeping your EV performing at its best while reducing environmental impact.

In short, choosing an eco-friendly dent repair option isn’t just about keeping your car looking good — it’s about staying consistent with the sustainable values behind EV ownership. Whether it’s a small door ding or hail damage, paintless solutions like those from Dent Rewind offer a smarter, greener way to get your car back to perfect.

Get a free quote today �� 01892 523766

info@dentrewind.com www.dentrewind.com

ADVICE FOR MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES

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.

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.

• Employee Injuries: Manufacturing can be a hazardous job, with employees handling heavy machinery, sharp tools, and raw materials. A workplace accident could result in costly medical bills, compensation claims, and downtime.

• Supply Chain Disruptions: Any interruption in your supply chain—from wood shortages to transport delays—can delay production and affect customer satisfaction.

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

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 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.

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

Money Mindset:

Are You Making Other People’s Financial Decisions?

One of the most overlooked mindset blocks in business is the tendency to make financial decisions on behalf of other people.

It happens subtly. You’re about to raise your prices, but then stop yourself, thinking, “No one will pay that.” You create an offer you’re proud of, but hesitate to promote it because “people can’t afford it right now.” You assume your service is out of reach for someone - so you never even mention it.

The uncomfortable truth is it’s not their money story. It’s yours.

What’s happening in these moments is a classic case of money mindset projection - where we take our own financial beliefs, fears, and limitations, and apply them to others without consent. We decide what someone else can or can’t afford, what’s “too expensive,” and what’s “reasonable”all based on our own internal narrative. And we do it without even asking the person.

Sometimes this behaviour is rooted in well-meaning protection. Other times, it’s driven by our own fear of rejection or discomfort around visibility and pricing.

But either way, it does a disservice - not only to your potential clients but to your business as a whole.

The truth is, what feels expensive to one person might feel like an absolute bargain to another. Value is always relative, and our job is not to guess someone’s financial priorities or capacity. Our job is to clearly communicate the value of what we do and offer them the opportunity to say yes or no.

We also need to be mindful of where the most damaging money stories can

come from: often, they’re handed to us by people we’re close to. Friends or family members may comment, “No one’s going to pay that!” or “I wouldn’t spend that kind of money…” and although they may mean no harm, those comments can lodge deeply in our minds and shake our confidence.

But your friends and family aren’t necessarily your audience, and they’re almost certainly not your ideal client.

So what’s the mindset shift?

Stop making other people’s financial decisions.

Stop assuming what people can or can’t afford.

Stop putting your own money beliefs in someone else’s wallet.

Let people surprise you. Let them decide for themselves.

Because when you let go of the habit of pre-deciding outcomes, you open the door to opportunities, clients, and income that you never would have expected, simply because you dared to offer.

CHRISTMAS AT OURS

From cosyChristmascatch-upsto big end-of-year blowouts, our festive menu is made for making memories. Come over anytime, we’re hosting this year.

BOOK A TABLE

We help turn your spark into reality.

Expert financial advice to ensure your future shines bright

Whether you’re looking for ideas on growing your money, planning for retirement or leaving a financial legacy for your loved ones, we’ll guide you with personalised financial planning and investment management, so you can look to the future with confidence.

Speak to us to find out how our ideas can help make your ideas a reality.

Contact our Tunbridge Wells office to arrange an introductory meeting with Louise Shaw Call 01892 739580 or email

louise.shaw@brewin.co.uk brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells

value of investments can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

Recruitment Solutions: Solving Your Hard-to-Fill Hiring Challenges

Every business has been there. You need to fill a role, but it isn’t the usual vacancy. Perhaps the hours are unusual, the technical knowledge is rare, or the person needs to combine two very different skill sets. It might just be a thought, of “ what if I could find someone who could...” that’s where we come in! That’s when businesses turn to Recruitment Solutions.

For more than two decades, we’ve been trusted by companies across Kent and the wider South East to deliver tailored recruitment support. We’re not a “CV sending service.” We’re recruitment consultants in the true sense of the word—listening, understanding, and working in partnership with you to find the right people. Working with both small and large companies, our expertise allows us to do what we do well, come up with the recruitment solution.

Our Consultative Approach

Roles, aren’t always roles, sometimes they are opportunities, and when talking to a company we can ask they what type of person they could be interested in who would make a difference to their business, or what role they have that they consider hard to fill.   We don’t jump straight into the market. Instead, we start with a conversation, and we take the time to understand:

• The business context—what makes your organisation unique and what the role contributes to the bigger picture.

• The role specifics—the technical skills, qualifications, or languages that are essential, as well as the softer attributes that will make someone thrive.

• The commercial realities—including budget, working hours, location, and flexibility.

This allows us to shape the search strategy and advise you honestly. Sometimes that means fine-tuning a job description; sometimes it means thinking creatively about transferable skills or candidate motivations.

Our Process

Once we’ve mapped out the brief, we go to market proactively:

1. Sourcing widely – using not only advertising and databases, but also our established networks, local knowledge, and direct headhunting where needed.

2. Screening rigorously – every candidate is interviewed by us personally, ensuring you only see people who meet your brief and have been properly assessed for motivation, fit, and capability.

3. Shortlisting effectively – presenting candidates in a way that highlights their strengths and relevance, saving you time and giving you confidence.

4. Supporting throughout – from arranging interviews to managing offers and start dates, we’re there at every stage to make the process seamless.

Delivering the Difficult

This consultative, process-driven approach is why clients turn to us when the role seems “unfillable.” In recent months we’ve successfully placed:

• A Chinese-speaking Client Executive to support international trade, based locally.

• A Panel Mortgage Executive with niche financial services knowledge.

• A Property Service Charge Controller to untangle complex portfolios.

• A Laboratory Analyst with precise technical skills.

• An 8-hours-a-week Bookkeeper—a small but business-critical role.

• A Business Manager  to manage the business affairs of a high networth international business person based at one of his UK country estates

• A PA to the MD  of a small high profile, yet discreet Events Marketing Company

• The Housekeeper to a large country house estate

Why It Matters

Recruitment isn’t just about filling vacancies; it’s about enabling businesses to grow, adapt, and thrive. By acting as a trusted partner, we save clients time, reduce risk, and ensure that even the hardest-to-fill positions are filled with the right people.

If your business is struggling to find that elusive candidate, talk to us. We’ll combine expertise, process, and creativity to deliver a solution that works.

Recruitment Solutions

Expert people. Tailored service. Lasting results.

01892 540054

www.recsol.co.uk

From office parties to family dinners or drinks with friends, TN1 Bar & Kitchen is the ideal place to celebrate this Christmas.

Stay for drinks and dance into the evening

Spacious venue with a lively atmosphere, perfect for groups

New Years Eve party to see in 2026

Festive menus to suit all tastes

Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday

Open on Christmas Day

How TN Recruits gives businesses a vital competitive edge

Recruitment is tougher and more competitive than ever but one local specialist firm, TN Recruits, reveals how elevating a prospective candidate’s overall experience of the process can pay dividends - for both them and their future employer...

In today’s competitive hiring landscape, attracting the right talent isn’t just about advertising vacancies - it’s about creating memorable, positive experiences for every candidate you meet. For businesses across Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas, getting recruitment right is no longer optional; it’s a strategic advantage.

THE COMPETITIVE CHALLENGE

In his recent LinkedIn video post, TN Recruits’ Managing Director, Neil Simmons, highlighted just how fierce the battle for talent has become. With around 770,000 jobs currently being advertised across the UK, employers are competing harder than ever to secure the best candidates. Yet, as Neil revealed, there’s a surprising truth: 60–80% of roles are never advertised. Instead, they’re filled

quietly through recruitment agencies or word of mouth.

This is where TN Recruits gives businesses a vital competitive edge. We provide access to the hidden talent pool - highly skilled professionals who aren’t actively applying to job boards but are open to the right opportunities. By leveraging our 40,000+ strong, pre-vetted candidate database and extensive local networks, we help employers connect with exceptional candidates faster and more effectively than traditional methods.

TN Recruits: Your advantage

At TN Recruits, we believe that creating a positive candidate journey benefits everyone. It improves offer acceptance rates, builds stronger employer brands, and secures top talent faster. We achieve this by combining technology, expertise, and personal service to deliver exceptional results:

• Hire faster — and better: Our 40,000+ pre-vetted candidates ensure you connect with the right people quickly, keeping candidates engaged and the process moving smoothly

• Exclusive video shortlists: Bringing CVs to life so candidates can

showcase their personality while helping clients make faster, more confident decisions

• Sector specialists across Kent, Sussex & Surrey: We know your market, manage expectations, and ensure interviews are better aligned for both clients and candidates

• Speed & precision: Whether urgent roles or planned growth, we deliver promptly — ensuring candidates aren’t left waiting and employers secure top talent quickly

WHY CANDIDATE EXPERIENCE MATTERS

In a crowded marketplace, an exceptional candidate experience isn’t just nice to have - it’s your competitive advantage. Every interaction, from initial application to final offer, shapes how candidates perceive your business. When candidates feel respected, supported, and valued, they’re far more likely to say ‘yes’ when you make an offer.

Neil shared a recent example in his video: after an interview, a client personally escorted a candidate to her car with a large umbrella during heavy rain. A simple, thoughtful gesture but one that made a lasting impression. That candidate felt genuinely cared for, and when an offer came through, she accepted immediately. These moments set employers apart and strengthen their reputation in the market.

THE BOTTOM LINE

In today’s competitive market, a positive candidate journey isn’t just good practice, it’s essential. With TN Recruits by your side, you gain access to hidden talent, create lasting impressions, and hire with confidence.

Call us on 01892 571105 or visit www.tnrecruits.com to start a conversation with your local recruitment expert.

43% of UK businesses reported experiencing a cyber breach or attack in the last 12 months*

*Source - www.gov.uk

Create Balance are a modern and thriving accountancy and tax practice based in Tunbridge Wells but serve clients all over the UK. We provide: X Statutory accounts X Payroll services X Bookkeeping X VAT returns X Finance Director support X Personal tax returns X Trusts and estates returns X Capital gains tax X IHT Planning Tax returns

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

SCHOOLS the good guide

In association with:

Going beyond the grades

As our children start a new academic year, it's arguably a good time to consider whether mainstream education is fully meeting the needs of the present generation. Leonora Langley, former Tunbridge Wells teacher and author of the book, 'Let the Souls of Our Children Sing', looks beyond academic achievement to highlight ways of helping all children to access and enjoy the learning experience...

With so many young people struggling with mental health and well-being concerns (exacerbated by an ongoing fallout from two years disrupted education during the pandemic), it is evident that an increasing number of children in our present society have mental health issues and special needs to a greater or lesser degree.  In England, a 2023 NHS survey found that 20.3% of children and young people aged 8-16 had a probable mental health disorder and over 1.7 million school pupils had an identifiable special educational need (SEN) according to the 2024/2025 academic year statistics from GOV.UK.

It may seem like a daunting task to change a centuries-old system, but by merging the mechanical and artistic into an organic whole, is the only way education will progress “

The marked increase in pupils with a special educational need, including neurodiverse conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia, is evidence that a one-size-fits-all approach to mainstream education, with the main emphasis on academic achievement, is outmoded and no longer viable.  Since the 1870s, education has offered a Victorian, 19th century model emphasising cognition and logic because it can be counted and measured and meets the two broad aims of education: firstly, the transmission of a body of knowledge and cultural values from one generation to another and, secondly, the creation of a productive workforce. There is a new school of thought which recognises that education needs to be more about developing the whole person, to help increase selfawareness, self-esteem, self-compassion and self-love with the ultimate aim of reaching self-actualisation as described by humanistic psychologists Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, a philosophy nurturing

the human spirit and soul which is beyond measure.

Many educationists are now acknowledging a real need for a new paradigm for mainstream education to embrace social, intellectual, physical, emotional and cultural diversity as well as multi-cultural learning. Young people already have access to all the facts and figures they need via computers and the internet. What they are hungry for is an education that is more personal and human, to help them become better human beings and make greater sense of the world around them.

What young people desperately need right now are more opportunities to develop their feelings and emotions which can be done most effectively through the arts.  Embracing poetry, art, music, dance, drama and film, the arts help nurture emotional well-being in the young and feed their souls. They not only provide children with an opportunity to explore their creative potential, the arts help with

problem-solving and thinking outside the box.  It's only by putting children's innate creativity and curiosity at the heart of our education mission that we can hope to reengage the vast number of young people switched off from the current system. It may seem like a daunting task to change a centuries-old system, based on conformity and technical processing, and transform it into a new and innovative model where rigour and imagination go hand in hand.  However, it is only by merging the mechanical and artistic into an organic whole, balancing the yin and the yang, that education is ever going to progress and meet the needs of  present and future generations so that our children can all come to know, love, value and celebrate their unique role as a wonderful and mystical part of nature and the universe.

CONTACT:

Discover more about Leonora Langley here: www.leonoralangley.com

New era, same excellence

Kent College to become a fully co-educational school from September 2026

Kent College Pembury, a distinguished day and boarding school founded in 1886, has announced that it will welcome boys into the Senior School from September 2026. This decision reflects the school's commitment to evolving and enhancing its educational offerings as part of its exciting plans for its future.  Renowned for its academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, state-ofthe-art facilities and strong sense of community, this decision will now enable any child who would flourish at Kent College to be able to join, irrespective of gender.

This new era of extending their co-educational provision follows the successful integration of boys into Kent College Prep School in 2020. Boys will now be able to transition from the Prep School to the Senior School and new joiners can start into Senior School year groups next year, as well as into the Sixth Form and boarding.

Kent College takes pride in providing a diverse array of academic options and a comprehensive extracurricular programme designed to establish a solid

foundation for students' future careers and studies. In addition to the 23 subjects currently available at the Sixth Form, the school is introducing BTECs in Medical Science, Criminology, Media, Marketing, and Information Technology, along with Engineering courses in Key Stage 3. This expansion allows students to pursue pathways that align with their individual interests and aspirations.

The school’s Open Day events are as

senior

follows: Prep Open Morning on Thursday 9th October, Senior Open Morning on Saturday 4th October and Wednesday 5th November and Sixth Form Information Evening on Wednesday 5th November. Please visit our website to register. www.kent-college.co.uk.

Please contact the Kent College Admissions Team on: admissions@kentcollege.kent.sch.uk or on 01892 820218.

SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER

MORNING THURSDAY 9 OCTOBER TH OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 4 OCTOBER TH INFORMATION EVENING TH WEDNESDAY 5 NOVEMBER

Kent College is a community of kind and compassionate individuals from 3-18 years.

Kent College is a community of kind and compassionate individuals from 3-18 years.

Kent College is a community of kind and compassionate individuals from 2-18 years.

We ensure our students succeed in every stage of their education and become confident young people, ready to take on the world.

We ensure our students succeed in every stage of their education and become confident young people, ready to take on the world.

We ensure our students succeed in every stage of their education and become confident young people, ready to take on the world.

Come along to one of our Autumn term events to find out more. www.kent-college.co.uk

Come along to one of our Autumn term events to find out more. www.kent-college.co.uk FOREST

Come along to one of our Autumn term events to find out more. www.kent-college.co.uk

Smart Safety and Seamless Admin – how The Fluent Group supports modern schools

In today’s educational landscape, schools face growing pressure to be both safe and efficient. The Fluent Group, a leading IT, telecoms and technology provider, delivers smart, scalable solutions that help schools meet these demands, from lockdown readiness to streamlined administration.

Safeguarding students, simplifying school life “

Lockdown Safety That Works When It Matters Most

Ensuring a school can activate lockdown procedures quickly and effectively is critical to safeguarding students and staff. The Fluent Group offers a range of integrated systems designed to support rapid response without disrupting supervision.

Modern tannoy systems allow staff to trigger alerts instantly, whether from a mobile device on playground duty or a desk phone using the 3CX phone system. This means no one has to leave their post to raise the alarm, ensuring swift action when seconds count.

Whether you're looking to enhance safeguarding protocols or streamline day-to-day operations, The Fluent Group offers practical, future-ready solutions

Today’s CCTV systems do more than record, they respond. With AI-powered alerts, schools can be notified if someone enters a restricted area, such as jumping a fence or accessing a secure zone. This proactive approach enables staff to intervene before a situation escalates.

Visitor access management is another key layer of protection. Digital sign-in systems ensure every visitor enters through a designated point, like reception, creating a real-time log of who is on site. This not only improves daily oversight but becomes essential during emergencies like fires or lockdowns.

Efficiency That Frees Up Time and Headspace

School admin teams are often stretched thin, managing everything from attendance to parent communications. The Fluent Group’s technology helps lighten the load with smart integrations that save time and reduce errors.

Our 3CX phone system integrates seamlessly with leading CRMs like Arbor,

iSAMS & Bromcom, allowing staff to log absences, handle parent calls, and access student records, all from one interface. No more digging through voicemails, scribbling notes, or juggling multiple systems. Schools can save up to 30 minutes of admin time every day.

Going digital also supports GDPR compliance by reducing reliance on paper-based processes. With secure, cloud-based tools, schools can manage sensitive data confidently while improving accessibility and collaboration.

A Trusted Partner for ForwardThinking Schools

Whether you're looking to enhance safeguarding protocols or streamline day-to-day operations, The Fluent Group offers practical, future-ready solutions tailored to the education sector. Our technology doesn’t just tick boxes, it transforms how schools operate, helping staff stay focused, responsive, and in control.

To learn more, visit www.fluent-group. co.uk or contact us at enquiries@fluentgroup.co.uk

Fluent Group, Harley House, Farningham Road, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 2JD 01892 53 23 73

Telephone

Printers

Interactive

Emergency

Early

Visitor Management Systems

St Gregory’s puts dance centre stage

St Gregory’s Catholic School has launched a Dance Academy to inspire the next generation of performers. Eileen Leahy spoke to Royal Ballet soloist and academy ambassador Mica Bradbury, along with Cascade Dance’s Sam Blackden, who will be delivering expert tuition.

Although Tunbridge Wells has many excellent schools, until now it has never had a secondary that offers dance and performance as part of its core curriculum. That has changed with the launch of the new Dance Academy at St Gregory’s Catholic School on Reynolds Lane, which began this academic year.

The aim is to provide students from Year 7 with an exciting opportunity to develop their skills and creativity alongside a firstclass education. The co-educational school is already well known for its successful Football Academy, which has produced many students who have gone on to enjoy careers in sport. According to Deputy Head Teacher Noel Bradbury, the Dance Academy was the natural next step.

“The Football Academy really helped elevate students’ chances of accessing careers in sport, whether that was playing for a youth team, working in marketing or moving into sports journalism. We wanted to create the same pathway for those pursuing careers in the arts. This fits perfectly with our mission to nurture talent and ambition. We are also working

towards the Performing Arts Mark Award, reflecting our commitment to developing dance, drama and music.”

“It is going to be so much more than just dance. It is about work ethic, commitment and passion” – Royal Ballet Soloist and St Gregory’s Dance Academy Ambassador Mica Bradbury

Opera House, and talks from its team.

“It is going to be so much more than just dance,” says Mica. “It is about work ethic, commitment and passion. I want to show students that anything is possible and hopefully inspire future dancers.”

Students accepted into the Dance Academy receive specialist training across genres including ballet, contemporary and jazz. The school is proud to have Royal Ballet Soloist Mica Bradbury, originally from Tunbridge Wells, as its ambassador. She is offering exclusive Royal Ballet workshops, backstage tours of the Royal

The academy is led by Cascade Dance founder Sam Blackden, who has been working with St Gregory’s since 2022. “We launched with Year 7 after an audition process, but we plan to expand to other years. This is about technique, creativity, performance and breaking down barriers. It feels really positive to see the arts being supported so strongly in this school.”

For more information on St Gregory’s and its upcoming open days visit www.sgschool.org.uk

Paying for private education: planning beyond the fees

Gary Jefferies of Panoramic Wealth shares his top tips on how to navigate rising school costs, maximise tax efficiency and create a sustainable plan for funding a private education

In the UK, around 6% of children attend fee-paying schools, with average annual costs of £20,000 and the most prestigious institutions charging nearer £50,000. For a higher-rate taxpayer, even the £20,000 figure equates to more than £33,000 of gross income. From January this year, the challenge has deepened, with school fees now subject to VAT, pushing costs up by a further 20%.

Outside of securing a full or partial scholarship, parents face the stark reality of funding fees themselves. For many, covering them purely from income is simply not viable, making forward planning - or external support- critical.

THE ROLE OF GRANDPARENTS

Where grandparents are in a position to assist, direct contributions can be an effective first step. Depending on how it is structured, this support may also

fall outside the scope of inheritance tax. Other approaches include grandparents lending the funds, allowing repayment over time, or providing for school fees within their wills.

PLANNING AHEAD

For parents shouldering the costs alone, the numbers are daunting. Even at today’s rates, the commitment can reach £200,000 per child. To prepare, starting early is essential. Saving from birth, parents might need to set aside around £1,000 a month for over a decade. Investment choices matter. Stocks and Shares ISAs remain one of the most flexible and tax-efficient routes, particularly for those comfortable with market risk. For higher-rate taxpayers with larger sums to deploy, Insurance Investment Bonds may also prove attractive. Those with lower risk appetites

should be prepared to save more to bridge the gap.

ALTERNATIVE FUNDING

For families who cannot plan far enough in advance, increasing the mortgage to cover fees may be the only option. While this ensures costs are met as they fall due, the long-term repayment burden must be carefully weighed.

In practice, the most effective solution often blends several of these approaches. Whether through family assistance, disciplined saving, or leveraging assets, early, structured planning can make the difference between aspiration and affordability.

www.panoramicwealth.co.uk

IN STEP: Ballerina Mica Bradbury (far right) is an ambassador for the new dance academy

“At

Mayfield, education is an adventure of the mind, heart and soul”

Deborah Bligh, Headmistress at Mayfield School reveals what makes this all-girls educational establishment so unique..

Ifirst saw Mayfield five years ago during a social visit on a wet and windy December evening.  The Head of Lower School showed me around and the joy was palpable with girls rushing about collecting eggs from the school farm, munching on toast whilst choreographing a dance routine for house competition, others completing study with help from tutors. I then went to watch the famous Live Crib which was just the most beautiful experience, involving the entire village and organised and performed entirely by the girls.

I remember thinking that not only had I found the perfect school to lead, but I had found the perfect place for my own daughters (now in Year 11 and Year 8) to flourish.

At Mayfield we are proudly mixed ability, passionately believing that a girl’s potential should never be capped

Mayfield is a school where childhood is cherished and celebrated, a school with an obvious spirit of adventure, producing young women of character. It was just so distinctive that it left an impression on me - and led me to applying for a role at the earliest opportunity.

I eventually joined as Deputy Head in September 2023 before becoming Headmistress in April 2024.

At Mayfield, education is an adventure of the mind, heart and soul. We create an environment where girls discover their authentic selves and develop the courage to embrace life’s possibilities. It is an ethos that encourages breadth, risk-taking and trying new things – one that refuses to put children into boxes based on prior attainment or assumptions about what they can and can’t do. Our curriculum is exciting and forward-thinking, allowing our students to uncover talents they may not have known they had.

We equip our students with the moral compass and courage to navigate an ever-changing world - a vital part of building an ethos that is both forwardlooking and inclusive. We do not shy away from discussing the challenges our girls will face in real life, and we dedicate curriculum time to life skills (everything

Deborah Bligh

from changing a tyre to investing in the stock market to arranging a mortgage).

Our careers programme is constantly evolving to reflect changes in the job market, but one constant is our old girls (we call them Old Cornellians) who regularly return to inspire current students with stories of success across diverse fields such as Medicine, Law, Finance and the Creative Arts. They are a constant source of inspiration, mentorship and support, with many students enjoying work experience placements with them.

Since I joined Mayfield we have strengthened our careers provision and university pathway, ensuring we have specialist staff with the time and drive required to give our girls the very best preparation for life beyond school.

I am particularly proud of our new Wellbeing Centre, opened in September 2023 by OC, Olympian Gold medallist, and local girl, Emily Craig. It continues to position us as a leading voice in girls’ wellbeing within the independent sector and beyond.

In addition, I have also enhanced the Performing Arts offer, ensuring that contemporary dance and music sit proudly alongside the rich beauty of our traditional programme, which remains undiminished.

During my 27 years in education I have taught Religious Studies, Philosophy, and Personal Development and to be honest, I am never happier than when I’m in the classrooms. At Mayfield I have enjoyed working with our talented staff to enhance and develop the curriculum, and the school’s teaching and learning strategywhich has led to significant success in this years’ public exams.

I believe single-sex education is more important than ever. Today’s girls are bombarded with messages about what it means to be female - pressures from social media, stereotypes, and expectations to conform. A girls-only environment provides the space to grow up first, to find their voice, and to be equipped with the skills and strategies they need to thrive.

In single-sex schools girls are empowered in sport right from the start - and that empowerment lasts a lifetime. Visitors continually remark on the inner confidence of a Mayfield girl. There isn’t a better job in the world than being a Headteacher. I take my responsibility seriously, but joyfully. The largest part of my day is spent among the students: taking an active interest in their experiences, ensuring the highest standards of teaching and pastoral care, and remaining steadfast in my mission to ensure every one of them is seen, heard, and ready to meet the needs of the ageunapologetically and on their own terms.  If you always put the interests of the child at the centre of every decision, the school - and the students within it - will flourish.

At Mayfield we are proudly mixed ability, passionately believing that a girl’s potential should never be capped. We ensure a dynamic, thoughtful curriculum that leads to astonishing progress and self-belief.

School is not just a collection of numbersit is a beautiful time in a child’s life. Mayfield cherishes childhood for the gift it is. To discover more about Mayfield and its educational ethos visit www.mayfieldgirls.org

Where true confidence takes flight

World-class education that empowers girls to thrive

We deliver outstanding academic results without the pressure. Set in stunning countryside with daily minibus services across Kent and Sussex, Mayfield School offers an extended day, flexible boarding and more than 80 extracurricular activities. Here, girls thrive intellectually and personally, leaving with unshakeable confidence to navigate an ever-changing world.

Schools to inspire success

From prep schools to selective and state options, Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas offer an exceptional range of educational opportunities. Isabelle Perkin selects the schools that promise every child a bright futurewhether that means academic excellence, creative inspiration, or a well-rounded boarding experience...

Prep Schools

BEECHWOOD SCHOOL

Beechwood is an independent day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 3 ½ to 18 years old. Beechwood focuses on maintaining small classes to ensure a personalised approach to reaching academic potential. Day fees start from £2,430 and Boarding fees start from £10,405, please see website for more info.

Address: 12 Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3QD Call: 01892 532747

Email: info@beechwood.org.uk

HOLMEWOOD HOUSE

streamlined into single-sex classes to learn in different and bespoke ways. PreSchool fees start from £893, Pre-Prep fees start from £4,777, Prep fees start from £6,899, please see website for more info.

Address: Tudeley Road, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 0NJ

Call: 01732 352124

Email: reception@somerhill.org

THE MEAD

BENNETT MEMORIAL DIOCESAN SCHOOL

Bennett Memorial

Diocesan School

is an all ability coeducational academy with students aged 11 to 18 years old. Bennett is a Church of England School which is academically highly successful as well as full of character and solid values.

The Mead is a co-educational prep school preparing children for the Kent Selection Exam and independent schools. At the Mead academic standards are high and a wide range of extra curricular activities offered. Day fees per term start from £2,626 with scholarships and bursaries available.

Address: Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells,Kent, TN4 9SH Call: 01892 521595

Contact: enquiries@bennett.kent.sch.uk

HILLVIEW SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Holmewood House School is an independent preparatory school for girls and boys aged 3 to 13 years old. Holmewood House is proud to focus upon positive relationships between the teachers and pupils of the school, this allows the school to flourish as each individual needs of every child are understood. Day fees start from £3,735 and Boarding fees start from £8,984, please see website for more info.

Address: Barrow Lane, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 0EB Call: 01892 860000

Email: Admin@holmewoodhouse.co.uk

ROSE HILL SCHOOL

Address: 16 Frant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5SN

Call: 01892 525837

Email: office@themeadschool.co.uk

Hillview School for Girls is a performing arts college with academy status. Girls can attend the school between the ages of 11 to 18 years old, with boys being able to join the sixth form at 16 years old. Hillview promotes a strong ‘I can’ approach to future aspiration.

Address: Brionne Gardens, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 2HE

Call: 01732 352793

Email: admin@hillview.kent.sch.uk

KENT COLLEGE

Rose Hill School is an independent co-educational preparatory school for children aged 3 to 13 years old. Rose Hill offers a warm and caring environment with an enriching curriculum and first-class facilities. PrePrep fees start from £2,910, Prep school fees start from £7,624, please see website for more info.

Address: Coniston Avenue, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9SY Call: 01892 525591

Email: admissions@rosehillschool.co.uk

SOMERHILL

SCHOOL

Somerhill is a leading independent prep school for girls and boys aged 2 to 13 years old. The school prides itself on their personal and dedicated approach to education. At the age of seven boys and girls are

Secondary and Independent schools

BENENDEN SCHOOL

Benenden School is an independent boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18 years old. It offers girls exactly what its motto states, ‘A complete education’, through a combination of a forward-thinking academic curriculum, thrilling cocurricular opportunities and own personal care and development for the girls’ wellbeing. Day fees start from £14,165 and Boarding fees start from £19,738, please see website for more details.

Address: Hemsted Park, Benenden,Kent, TN17 4AA

Call: 01580 240592

Email: schooloffice@benenden.school

Kent College Pembury is an independent day and boarding school in Kent for children aged 2 to 18 years old. Kent college is an ISI ‘Excellent’ independent school. The school is co-education from Nursery to Year three, and from September 2025, will admit boys into all year groups to Year 6. Kent college focuses on the potential and promise of every individual with an ethos of kindness, community and inclusive nurturing.

Address: Kent college, Old Church Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4AX Prep School 01892 820204 Senior School 01892 822006

Admissions 01892 820218

Email: schooloffice@kentcollege.co.uk

SEVENOAKS SCHOOL

Sevenoaks School is a public, boarding and day, co-educational school located in

Sevenoaks, Kent. It is the second oldest non-denominational school in the United Kingdom. The school prides itself on its commitment to developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people to create a better and more peaceful

world. Day fees start from £10,243 and Boarding fees start from £16,453, please see website for more info.

Address: High Street, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1HU

Call: 01732 455133

Email: admin@sevenoaksschool.org

ST GREGORY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Address: St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9PG

Call: 01892 520732

Email: enquiries@skinners-school.org.uk

TONBRIDGE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

TUNBRIDGE WELLS GIRLS’ GRAMMAR SCHOOL

St Gregory’s Catholic School is a Roman Catholic secondary school and sixth form with academy status in Royal Tunbridge Wells. The school is co-educational with ages 11 to 18 years old. St Gregory’s is a proudly Catholic inclusive and caring school where every child is known, loved and inspired to excel.

Address: Reynolds Lane, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9XL

Call: 01892527444

Email: office@sgschool.org.uk

THE JUDD SCHOOL

Tonbridge Grammar School is a high-achieving selective grammar school with academy status, educating girls between the ages of 11 to 16 and both girls and boys in the Sixth Form. The school community at the Tonbridge Grammar School encourages all students to reach their potential in caring environment where wellbeing is the priority.

Address: Deakin Leas, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 2JR

Call: 01732 365125

Email: office@tgs.kent.sch.uk

Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School is an all-female selective school with girls aged 11 to 18 years old. TWGGS’s main goal is to instil in each girl the curiosity and excitement of learning as well as embrace traditional values, which aims to provide pupils with a full and balanced education for life within a caring environment.

Address: Southfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9UJ

Call: 01892 520902

Email: info@twggs.kent.sch.uk

TUNBRIDGE WELLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS

The Judd School is a selective, voluntary-aided Grammar school with boys in years 7 to 11 and a co-educational Sixth Form. The school presents itself as a special place to learn and grow, for both students and staff. At the Judd, students are given many opportunities to develop socially, academically and personally.

Address: Brook Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 2PN

Call: 01732 770880

Email: enquiries@judd.kent.sch.uk

THE SKINNERS’ KENT ACADEMY

The Skinners’ Kent Academy is a co-educational secondary school with academy status in Tunbridge Wells. The school is founded on the principles of a culture of high standards and high aspirations, where every child is known and every learner is supported.

TONBRIDGE SCHOOL

Address: Sandown Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4PY Call: 01892 534377

Email: info@skinnerskent.org.uk

THE SKINNERS’ SCHOOL

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys is a selective, grammar school for boys aged 11 to 18 years old, with a co-educational Sixth Form. The school operates across two campuses, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. The school provides a high-quality, comprehensive education for all students.

Address: St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9XB Call: 01892 529551

Email: thegrammarschool@twgsboys.kent.sch.uk

WEALD OF KENT GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Weald of Kent Grammar School is a selective, coeducational Grammar school with academy status for students aged 11 to 18 years old, with campuses in Tonbridge and Sevenoaks. The school provides a happy, purposeful and vibrant school community with a reputation for high academic standards.

The Skinners’ School is a Grammar School with academy status for boys in years 7 to 11 and with a co-educational Sixth Form. Skinners’ aims to achieve academic excellence for all its pupils, and its priority is to prepare pupils for life beyond school, playing a significant role in their communities and in society.

Tonbridge School is a leading boys’ boarding and day school, renowned for providing a world-class education for boys aged 13 to 18 years old. At Tonbridge, pupils are encouraged to be intellectually curious, to expand their experience through many extra-curricular activities to become fully engaged with the wider community. Tonbridge was ranked the 8th best independent school and top boys’ boarding school. Day fees start from £15,526, and Boarding fees start from £20,693. Please see the website for more info.

Address: High Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1JP

Call: 01732 365555

Email: info@tonbridge-school.org

Address: Tonbridge Campus, Tudeley Lane, Tonbridge, KenT, TN9 2JP Sevenoaks campus, Seal Hallow Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3SN Call: 01732 373500

Email: school@wealdgs.org

WALTHAMSTOW HALL

Walthamstow Hall is an independent day school for girls aged 2 to 18 years old in Sevenoaks. The school is known for its supportive environment, diverse range of facilities and inspirational teaching of a broad curriculum. Junior school fees start from £7,379, and Senior school fees start from £10,063. Please see the website for more info. Address: Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3UL

Call: 01732 451334

Email: headmistress@whall.school

Bright minds deserve equal chances

For those families who cannot afford the private tutoring for the 11+ it can feel like a real hurdle but there is hope. Since 2015, local charity AIM has been helping bright children prepare for the exam – also known as the Kent Test - for free, giving them the skills, confidence and opportunity to succeed at grammar school...

Anyone who has children in Tunbridge Wells knows all too well about the dreaded 11+.

Parents start talking about tutors, lessons, test papers and grammar schools at the school gates almost from Day 1 and this only escalates once a child hits Year 4 or 5.

But what do you do if you are on a low income and the costs involved in finding a 1-1 tutor, or even a group class are completely out of reach, especially now that so many families are struggling with the day-to-day cost of living? This is where AIM come in.

AIM was launched in Tunbridge Weils in 2015, to provide free 11+ preparation to bright children from low income families. We started with just one class of 10 children, and have since expanded to run classes in Tonbridge and Sevenoaks now helping more than 30 children each year build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the Kent Test.

Kent is home to some excellent selective grammar schools, and we believe every

child should have the opportunity to access them with confidence. We are committed to promoting fairness and inclusivity in education.

To qualify for a place on the AIM Programme children should be in year 5 and working at a level suitable for grammar school. We ask that their application is supported by a letter from the child’s school and/or a recent school report. Families with a household income under £25,000 are eligible to apply. However, if the household income is slightly above this due to additional benefits or exceptional circumstances, they are still considered. We also welcome applications from families who are receiving Pupil Premium.

AIM is a registered charity. Lessons are completely free for the children on the programme, and it is funded by selling places on two mock 11+ tests that AIM run each year and from generous donations. We are supported by The Skinners School, Sevenoaks School, Tonbridge School amongst others, and our programme is

delivered by The Right Tuition Company, who have many successful years in preparing children for the 11+. As well as the weekly lessons, we also offer advice and support to parents, fun enrichment activities for children and an opportunity for parents share their 11+ journey with each other.

AIM stands for Achieve Inspire Motivate, as these are our goals for the children on our programme. We are proud to have former AIM children in all the local grammar schools and are love to see them blossom and achieve their full potential. Our class of 2015 are now adults, many at university and others following their chosen path, and we hope that their time spent with AIM has helped in this.

For full details of AIM, what we offer and how you can be part of our work, please see our website: www.aimkent.org.uk

WE NEED YOUR HELP WITH A MAJOR PROJECT!

£300,000

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!

£300,000

Serving up success

Richard Maher is Operations Manager at the Sankey's group, which runs two hospitality sites in Tunbridge Wells, The Old Fish Market and Sankey’s Seafood Kitchen & Bar. It has also recently acquired The George & Dragon pub in Speldhurst, has two popular fish shops and is currently celebrating its 45th year in business. Here Richard, a seasoned industry professional, tells Eileen Leahy what his role chez Sankey’s involves....

Richard, you’ve had a long and prolific career in hospitality. What attracted you to working for the Sankey’s family?

Matthew Sankey and I had known each other through the Tunbridge Wells hospitality community for a while, but we made a more personal connection when I was still working at The George & Dragon in Speldhurst. During that time, I got to know Matthew well and saw the values he and his family uphold every day. That’s when I knew he was someone I could do good work with.

How did your Operations Manager role at Sankey’s come about?

I approached Matthew to see if there was anything I could help with and began a three-month consultancy role in January 2024. Job titles don’t really motivate me, but officially I’m the group’s Operations Manager. That means I oversee the managers who look after the teams, support staff, and make sure the operational side of all our venues runs smoothly. I’m also a shareholder, so in effect a director too.

What do you enjoy most about working in hospitality?

For me, it’s the best job in the world because I’m a people person. Everyone

“I’ve learned to appreciate the value of the people who do the work - and to remember the guest is always at the centre of everything we do

who comes through our doors is either celebrating and enjoying themselves, or they’re part of a team working hard, showing passion and pride, and helping others. I feel really lucky to have found a career I love - it never really feels like work.

You’ve been in the industry for some time - can you give us a brief career overview?

I trained as a chef at West Kent College before moving to the Goring Hotel in London. After completing an HND in Hospitality at Brighton University, my first big break came as Openings Manager for All Bar One, overseeing three sites in the West End.

Following a late gap year travelling in Latin America, and a brief stint as a recruitment consultant, I became Recruitment Manager at Carluccio’s for four years, then moved up to General Manager and later Operations Manager, a role I held for seven years.

After another gap year in my mid-40s, I launched a Mexican takeaway before

Images: Key & Quill

joining the Tunbridge Wells Bar & Grill. I then worked at The Lyle on Forest Road, followed by The George & Dragon in Speldhurst - and now I’m here at Sankey’s.

What do you think your varied expertise brings to the group?

I’ve worked across businesses of all sizes and learned from both successes and mistakes. Failure is part of winning - you just don’t panic when things get tough. I trust people to do their jobs, and I pay attention to the details, because our guests do.

I’ve seen small businesses dream of being big, and big businesses dream of being small again - both can lose focus if they take their eye off the ball. What I’ve learned is to appreciate where we are today, value the people who do the work, and remember that the guest is always at the centre of everything we do.

How does it feel to be back at The George & Dragon in Speldhurst, now part of the Sankey’s group?

It felt strange going back, but it’s always an honour to be custodian of a building with so much history. The pub belongs to the community it serves - we’re just here to make sure it fulfils that role. Bringing the Sankey family back to The G&D has made a lot of people happy, and that’s what matters most to me.

What makes working chez Sankey’s so special?

It’s just really good fun. Even the difficult moments become funny eventually because we’re all invested in being the best version of ourselves. I really enjoy working with Matthew - there’s nothing we can’t talk about. We may disagree, but there’s no blame in our culture. We ask everyone to own mistakes and share what they’ve learned.

At Sankey’s it all comes down to what we set out to achieve: big challenges, good people, great food, warm hospitality, and having fun at work.

To discover more about Sankey’s or to book at table at one of its restaurants

Visit: www.sankeys.co.uk

Call: 01892 511 422

Email: sankeys@sankeys.co.uk

Follow: @sankeysrtw

Bibi Roy, Events & Marketing manager at Essence at the Pantiles, invites discerning diners

to celebrate in style this festive season with inspired pan-Indian dishes, elegant interiors and a epicurean experience that blends tradition with culinary artistry...

This festive season, Essence At The Pantiles by Atul Kochhar is set to transform Tunbridge Wells into a haven of refined celebration. Housed in the historic Georgian colonnades, our restaurant blends Chef Atul’s Michelinstarred mastery of pan-Indian cuisine with the elegance of fine dining, making it the perfect destination for seasonal indulgence.

The upcoming festive menus promise a symphony of flavours, crafted with Chef’s signature finesse. Diners can expect starters like Khasta Murg, a delicate chicken tikka pie paired with mixed berry compote, one of our most popular dishes, and Tangra Chilli Prawns, inspired by Kolkata’s vibrant street food scene. These dishes set the tone for a menu that’s both nostalgic and inventive.

This year our main courses feature bold, aromatic creations such as Chettinad Chicken infused with curry leaf and lime, and Gilafi Lamb Seekh Kebab, spiced to perfection.  Vegetarian offerings are equally compelling, with seasonal vegetables and fragrant spices woven into

“

Our festive menus are more than meals, they’re moments of joy, crafted with passion and plated with precision

dishes that celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage. Just try our Bharwan Courgettes, visually stunning and a delight to savour.

Our festive experience goes beyond the plate. With our Rajasthani inspired elegant interiors, private dining mezzanine, and curated wine and cocktail list, including the Essence Martini with curry leaf and lemongrass-infused gin, the restaurant is designed for everything from intimate dinners to spirited gatherings.

Whether you’re planning a corporate celebration or a cosy evening with loved ones, Essence offers a festive escape that’s both luxurious and heart-warming. Our menus are more than meals, they’re moments of joy, crafted with passion and plated with precision.

Reservations are highly recommended, as tables fill quickly during the season.

This year, let Essence At The Pantiles be your destination for festive dining that’s rich in flavour, steeped in tradition, and sparkling with culinary creativity.

Get in touch:

Website: www.essencerestaurants.co.uk

Socials: @essence.pantiles

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

Raise a glass to the magic of magnums

Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine Drinks Editor, James Viner, uncorks his favourite magnum picks you’ll want on your radar. They’re practical, show-stopping, and will age gracefully – and definitely impress guests at your next dinner party...

Asommelier’s dry wit sums up the majesty of a magnum (150cl) perfectly: “A bottle gets the chat started; a magnum keeps it going all evening.”

Beyond spectacle, however, magnums boast an ideal oxygen-to-wine ratio, which helps fine wines develop complexity and mature more slowly than in standard 75 cl bottles. Bigger isn’t just bolder – it’s smarter.

This issue, I’ve curated six standout food-friendly magnums - perfect for celebrating business wins, family feasts, or upcoming festive nights. Magnums do come at a premium, but with 10–12 pours each, they’re a bargain in conviviality for generous hosts.

Pour into a decanter (Riedel O Magnum, anyone?) and let the moment linger deliciously. Ready to go big? Let’s indulge…

Six Bottles Worth Doubling Up On

1. Maison Maillet Provence Rosé Magnum 2024, France (£22/£17.60 subscription, Laithwaites, 12 %)

Not ready to say au revoir to summer? Me neither. This bargain rosé from Provence is light-bodied, easy to quaff, Grenache-led and kissed with garrigue and summer berries. From a fourthgeneration family estate near Bandol.

2. Bouvet Ladubay ‘Saphir’ Saumur Brut Magnum 2021, Loire, France (£30 mix 6, Majestic, 12.5 %)

When it comes to fizz, a magnum always steals the show. Made using the painstaking traditional method, this Loire Valley Chardonnay-Chenin sparkler is an elegant apéritif with enticing hints of acacia, pear, peach, hazelnut and brioche. A well-crafted Champagne alternative that shines with seafood or as a party starter.

3. Villa Cafaggio Chianti Organic Classico Magnum 2022, Panzano, Italy (£34.00, down to £24.00 Oct 1-28, Waitrose, 13.5 %)

This savoury all-Sangiovese organic Chianti Classico was matured in Slavonian oak and bursts with violets, juicy plum, cherry, tobacco, cloves and tea. Refined tannins keep it smooth. With a £10 October saving worth circling in your diary, it’s a dream match for autumn

“Magnums are perfect for celebrating business wins, family feasts, or upcoming festive nights

casseroles, seafood stews, or Christmas turkey. Go on — celebrate ‘Organic September’ with a bottle that proves greener living can taste delicious. Still more to come with time in the cellar.

4. Cary Wine Estate, The Old Rectory Chardonnay Magnum 2022 (£50, carywineestate.com, 13 %)

Award-winning Cary Wine Estate was founded in 2019 near Faversham and is now among Kent’s top vineyards. Made by contract winemaker Nick Lane, this classy Chardonnay is creamy, subtly nutty, and sure to elevate any dinner party. Pour with salmon gravadlax, seafood, mild curries or white meats (hello Christmas turkey).

Trade screens for vines. Volunteer as a grape picker at this 10-acre family vineyard in October. Secateurs and warm hospitality are provided. E: info@ carywineestate.com.

5. Magnum of The Society's Champagne Brut NV, Alfred Gratien, France (£68.63, The Wine Society, 12.5 %)

Consistently tip-top, full-bodied, oakfermented, long-aged, bone-dry house champagne, with masses of rich, nutty, toasty citrus fruit, from boutique, quirky champagne house Alfred Gratien. An impeccable, richly flavoured masterclass in French blending. Larger formats available—for example, a 300 cl jéroboam – for even more ‘wow’ factor.

6. Bodega Chacra ‘Barda’ Pinot Noir Magnum 2023, Río Negro, Argentina (£68.95 mix 6, Lea & Sandeman, 13 %)

Heartbreak grape Pinot Noir may be prone to disease and tricky to cultivate, but Chacra’s low-yielding, ungrafted ‘Barda’ vines planted in cool, windy (creating thicker skins), northern Patagonia in 1990 – the winery’s youngest vines – deliver seduction: organic, biodynamic, unfiltered and brimming with red plum, damask rose, black cherry, and forest floor. A real treat served slightly chilled with trout/salmon fillets, roast veal, or mushroom linguine.

Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines

Festive Dining at Thackeray's

As the nights draw in we look ahead with eager anticipation to cosy nights of long indulgent feasts and catching up with friends, family and work colleagues during theFestive season. With a variety of menus to suit all types of gatherings it's difficult not to be excited !

Our three unique private dining rooms are available to book for lunch or dinner from 8 to 18 guests and with no room hire fees.

Our Festive function menu will be available from 19th November to 19th December

Available Lunch or Dinner

5 Courses £48 per person

Our Festive Lunch menu will be available from 3rd December to 20th December

Available Wednesday to Saturday

2 Courses £28.00 3 Courses £32.00

Artistic inspiration for bold garden design

Tim Sykes of Gardenproud explains how he was inspired to think outside the box when it comes to garden design following a recent visit to the legendary Hauser & Wirth in Bruton, Somerset...

As a designer I’m constantly being asked by to create stunning borders, that without fail blaze into colour throughout the year.

Well I do strive to achieve this, but it can be challenging, so here’s an inspired solution for all garden lovers hankering for a splash of colour to cheer up the darkest of days.

Why not take a trip to Hauser & Wirth in Bruton, Somerset, like we recently did, and find inspiration in its glorious surroundings?

When we visited there was a fabulous exhibition by the sculptor Niki De Saint Phalle. She has spent a lifetime creating colourful works of art, reminiscent of greats such as Matisse and Picasso, but in three dimensions.

Her exhibition at Hauser & Wirth is a show stopper and, for me, brought a bumper crop of fresh inspiration for my garden design.

“

Imagine featuring one of these sculptures as a focal point in a large estate surrounded by the bellowing grasses of a soft perennial meadow?

Seeing the expo, which runs until next February, is guaranteed to brighten your mood and your vistas. Niki’s characters ‘Nanas’ have a touch of humour reminiscent of British artist Beryl Cook’s famous paintings, but with a contemporary spin that has its roots elsewhere.

The term ‘Nanas’ is a familiar and mildly rude French term for a girl, or young saucy woman. Niki was keen to portray women as cheerful, energetic and powerful figures.

And my god they were impressive! Imagine featuring one of these as a focal point in a large estate surrounded by the bellowing grasses of a soft perennial meadow? Or even a smaller specimen as a

centrepiece in a courtyard garden… well, it would certainly turn a few heads! Thinking outside the box and challenging our perceptions and beliefs is something Hauser & Wirth are very good at. A visit to their gallery in Bruton in Somerset is always worth it, especially since the setting is so beautiful. Here the extraordinary gardens are created by perennial meadow mastermind Piet Ouldolf. This alone is worth the pilgrimage.

There are excellent cafes and bars within the complex, but if you have time then a visit to nearby Mells and Cosmo Fry and singer songwriter Diane Birch’s walled garden (recently championed in the FT) is well worth it. Here you can enjoy simple, but delicious fare among beautiful kitchen gardens. Make sure you book, as it gets busy.

Myths & Machines, an exhibition by Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely at Hauser & Wirth is open until February 2026. For further details see www.hauserwirth.com

Why it’s more important than ever for landlords to protect themselves

Becky Moran of TN Lettings and TN Sales on why rental fraud is on the rise – and the ways you can protect your property

Fraud in the rental market is becoming a growing concern. With rents at record highs and the cost of living adding extra pressure, some applicants are finding ways to present themselves differently on paper than they do in reality. From exaggerated incomes to misleading documents, it’s becoming harder to know who is genuine.

This doesn’t mean landlords should worry about letting, but it does highlight the importance of carrying out careful checks and putting the right protection in place. With strong referencing and cover, such as rent guarantee insurance, landlords can stay confident while keeping their properties safe.

Here are some of the reasons why fraud is increasing:

High rents – With rental prices at an alltime high, some applicants are tempted to bend the truth to secure a property

Financial struggles – As more households face pressure from the cost of living, people are being inventive in the ways they ‘prove’ they can afford rent

Criminal activity – Sadly, there is also an underworld of applicants who are looking to rent for the wrong reasons, from running illegal businesses to hiding identities

Targeting ‘safe’ areas – Even towns like Tunbridge Wells, which are often seen as safe and affluent, are not immune. Fraudsters often choose locations where they believe landlords will be less suspicious.

So what are the risks for landlords if fraud slips through the net? Well, put quite simply the consequences can be serious.

Not only can unpaid rent quickly build up, but the costs of legal action and eviction are high. On top of that, landlords risk their property being misused, which can leave them with significant damage and repair bills.

Without strong referencing and the right protection in place, the financial impact can be long-lasting.

Here are just a few ways in which landlords can stay protected: Robust referencing - Basic checks are no longer enough. Comprehensive referencing should include verified proof

Fraud in the rental market is not slowing down. If anything, it’s becoming more sophisticated “

of income, employer confirmation, credit history, and previous rental addresses. Fraudulent applications are becoming more sophisticated, which means referencing needs to go much deeper than a quick form check.

Rent guarantee insurance - Even with thorough referencing, no one can predict the future. Job losses, illness, or personal struggles can affect any tenant. Rent guarantee insurance gives landlords peace of mind, covering rent if payments stop. As it’s tied to the referencing process, landlords are protected as long as the checks are completed properly.

Work with a professional agentExperienced letting agents know the warning signs and have access to systems that landlords often don’t. They can identify suspicious patterns, carry out detailed checks, and ensure every application is properly reviewed. This not only reduces risk but also saves landlords time and stress.

Stay alert to trends - Fraud tactics are constantly changing. Keeping up with the latest rental fraud trends helps landlords understand what to look out for. Agents who specialise in tenant checks can offer guidance on the most current risks in the market.

Fighting back against fraud - Fraud in the rental market is not slowing down. If anything, it’s becoming more sophisticated. Landlords who rely on basic checks take on far more risk than they may realise. The safest option is to use an agent who carries out foolproof referencing and connects it with rent guarantee insurance. That way, landlords can protect both their income and their property, while avoiding the stress of fraud slipping through the cracks.

Please feel free to get in touch: Email: info@tnlettings.co.uk

Call: 01892 249 070

Visit: www.tnlettings.co.uk

Lessons in how our schools add premium value to property prices

With our grammar schools among some of the best in the country and excellent non-selective options too, Tunbridge Wells has always been a hotspot for families seeking a top-class education for their children. Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential explains how the town’s outstanding schools create a premium on property prices...

When it comes to buying a family home, location may always be the number one rule, but in Tunbridge Wells, there’s another golden factor driving demand: education.

The town’s reputation for excellent schooling – both state and independent –has long been a magnet for families, and its effect on property values is undeniable. Tunbridge Wells enjoys a rare balance of choice. On the one hand, there are highly regarded grammar schools, such as Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar and

For families chasing the best start in life for their children, Tunbridge Wells ticks every box – and the property market reflects it

The Skinners’ School for boys, both consistently ranked among the best in the country. These selective schools attract families from across Kent and even from London, with many willing to relocate specifically to secure access.

And for those children not wishing to attend a grammar school or for whom it is not suitable, there remains an excellent choice of non-selective schools, such as Bennett Memorial Diocesan, St Gregory’s Catholic School, and Skinners’ Kent Academy. The fact that many families can access outstanding primary and secondary education for free is unquestionably a huge incentive to living in the area. And with the recent addition of VAT on independent school fees, this draw has only strengthened.

As a result, there is often a premium on property values in the area. According to local estate agents, homes within the priority catchment areas of the top grammar schools can command as much as 15–20% more than comparable properties outside. Even smaller family homes see fierce competition if they fall within desirable admissions zones, or are close to a primary school with an excellent reputation. Indeed recent statistics* show that while property values have increased by just under 2% nationally over the past year, in the strong schooling districts of Tunbridge Wells, the figure is closer to just over 5%.

The influence extends beyond just catchment lines. Entire neighbourhoods in Tunbridge Wells have been reshaped by schooling demand. St John’s, for example, once a more modest suburb, has seen prices climb steadily as families are drawn to its close proximity to sought-after primaries and the catchment grammars. Similarly, the villages surrounding the town, such as Langton Green and Speldhurst, attract buyers who want a balance of rural charm and convenient access to schools.

This sustained demand creates stability in the property market. While other areas may experience greater fluctuations,

Tunbridge Wells benefits from a consistent stream of buyers motivated by education – often families moving out of London who are happy to trade commuting time for academic excellence.

The result is a buoyant local market where quality family homes rarely stay unsold for long. Even within the recent more ‘stickier’ market conditions, strong family houses in good school catchments have found multiple buyers quickly and easily.

Of course, the ripple effects are wider than house prices alone. A concentration of good schools helps foster a thriving community, with cafés, parks, and familyoriented amenities growing in tandem with demand. In many ways, education underpins not only the property values but the character of Tunbridge Wells itself.

In short, for families chasing the best start in life for their children, Tunbridge Wells ticks every box – and the property market reflects it. Here, good schools don’t just shape young futures, they shape the town’s housing market too.

www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

* Nationwide House Price Index

Cubit Consulting are a wellestablished firm of Chartered Building Surveyors located in the heart of Shoreditch, London EC2A.

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

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

Experience a magical season of entertainment at Hever

The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle is delighted to announce the return of its popular History Festival event. Running from September 19-21 it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Here its Director, Ailsa Molyneux, reveals more about it and details of the impressive line-up for Autumn and Christmas...

W“e are excited to be back at Hever Castle with a packed Autumn season full of festival favourites,” Ailsa Molyneux, Director of the Festival Theatre at Hever Castle tells Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.

She reveals that the new seasonal schedule will include The Last Night of the Hever Proms, Paul Young with his band Los Pacaminos and an immersive Pantomime, Jack And The Beanstalk which will be a new addition to the event’s extended Christmas programme.

But before we get into the Autumn/ Winter scheduling Ailsa says that due to the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural History Festival, she and her team are thrilled to announce its return this September.

“

Audiences can look forward to carefully curated live performances that blend seasonal sparkle with signature quality and charm featuring fabulous artists

“Running from September 19th-21st, this time we will be joined by twice as many of the UK’s most acclaimed historians.”

Curated by Dr Owen Emmerson and Kate McCaffrey from the Hever Castle curatorial team, The History Festival at Hever Castle promises a rich and diverse range of events celebrating the turbulent and transformative Tudor and Stuart periodswith a few surprises along the way.

Whether you’re a die-hard history buff, a lover of live music, or on the hunt for the perfect Christmas outing, The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle delivers entertainment with elegance, atmosphere and unforgettable storytelling.

Looking ahead to Christmas there’s also plenty to enjoy with your friends, family or colleagues.

“The Festival Theatre invites you to a festive celebration like no other hosted in Hever Castle’s Guthrie Pavilion,” adds Ailsa.

“Audiences can look forward to carefully

curated live performances that blend seasonal sparkle with signature quality and charm featuring fabulous artists, Christmas songs and even a beanstalk!”

Each event is accompanied by a delicious, thoughtfully crafted menu from the new all-in-house Hever Castle Culinary team headed by Michelin-starred chef George Blogg that showcases the very best of local and UK sourced produce.

Jack & the Beanstalk (26 & 27 November) opens the official seasonal programme with an immersive mash-up of traditional panto and slapstick with the action taking place all over the room – including possibly at your table!

“A host of hilarious characters and one very big adventure sprouting up between the dinner tables! Quick changes, cheesy jokes, and songs you’ll be humming into dessert,” smiles Ailsa.

Moving into December the performances include exclusive access to Hever Castle’s sell-out Twilight Christmas Experience prior to an evening with The West End Jerseys at Christmas (5th December) singing all your favourite Jersey Boys songs including Beggin’, Oh What A Night, Sherry and many more all delivered with a joyful Christmas twist.

Meanwhile, Sarah Boo headlines The Festival Theatre’s very first Christmas Cabaret (12th December). The dynamic vocalist and seasoned performer, blends holiday classics, audience favourites, and diva-worthy numbers into one unforgettable night.

This season at The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle certainly promises to be a royal one to remember…

Book now at heverfestival.co.uk or call 07379 488477

15% discount for groups of 4+ on quoting "TWBIZ"

“How you can help us to create unforgettable moments”

This month Taylor-Made Dreams tell us all about their forthcoming TMD Dragonfly Ball, which will be hosted by David Walliams, and also share news of their Sibling Support Service’s summer adventure

At the end of every summer we hold an extra special sibling support service outing, inviting the whole family along to join the siblings for a full weekend. This year we ventured out to Chessington for a weekend stay of theme park rides, wildlife experiences and lots of laughter. We also gave a warm welcome to two new siblings joining the group for the first time.

The highlight for the group (apart from getting the TMD Team on the rollercoasters) was a VIP giraffe encounter, where we got up close with these gentle giants. The siblings had the chance to feed them whilst learning lots of interesting facts from the amazing Chessington team.

At the end of every summer we hold an extra special sibling support service outing, inviting the whole family along to join the siblings for a full weekend. This year we ventured out to Chessington “

After taking part in a ‘best photo of the day’ contest in the day, the evening gave us all some down time to share our favourite moments, decide a winner for the photo challenge, and tuck into a tasty meal at the Zafari Grill. Families then headed back to their giraffe-themed hotel rooms, complete with safari views of the giraffe enclosure.

The next morning, we all gathered for breakfast before a final splash in

the Savannah pool. A brilliant weekend full of connection, laughter and unforgettable memories for our families.

Did you know you can help to support services like this by attending our biggest ever Dragonfly Ball? Hosted every other year, our Dragonfly Ball offers an evening of entertainment and fundraising, to help support the ten services we provide. This year we are venturing to the Brighton Metropole on Saturday November 29, for a Once Upon a Time theme with special guest host ... David Walliams! There will be no shortage of entertainment throughout the evening. As well as David hosting proceedings, there will also be a live auction of star prizes, a raffle, casino tables, story book character performers and so much more.

You won’t want to miss out on this fairy tale charity night – but we only have a few tables left! So, if you would like to join us for this year's Dragonfly Ball, please do get in touch quickly. Tables are sold as a whole (10 places), at £150 per head. Every place supports the work we do, providing vital services for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. From days out to Chessington for our Sibling Support Service, to private tables at the Savoy for a TMD Warrior’s wish; Your support makes all of our services possible. www.taylormadedreams.org.uk

BOOK YOUR TICKETS

To be a part of this year’s Dragonfly Ball, with David Walliams as host, email TMD’s fundraiser Dave Richardson at dave@taylormadedreams.org.uk

14th November: Christmas Lights Switch on & The Big Reveal

14th November to 24th December: Christmas Markets

Carol Singing & Live Entertainment from the iconic bandstand

More announcements coming soon!