Times of Tunbridge Wells 14th June 2023

By Lilly Croucher

HUNDREDS of cyclists from Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge

Wells came together last week for a mass ‘ride along’ in a campaign for a dedicated, off-road cycle route between the two towns on the A26.

It is a project that is reportedly supported by the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, but is currently being blocked by one member of Kent County Council.

Almost 300 cyclists convened last Friday evening (June 9) on Southborough Common as part of

INSIDE:

a ‘critical mass’ campaign organised by the Tunbridge Wells Bicycle Users Group (TWBUG).

Paul Mason, organiser of TWBUG

and we wondered how many people would come, but it worked out really well.

“Car-dominated societies are so engrained in the entire layout of our country, so you have to keep going to bring about political change.”

was pleased with the turnout and told the Times: “It went very smoothly and we have what, 300 people here? I was looking at the plans at the beginning of the year,

Cyclists rode in a large group along the busy main road, with half of the riders starting from Five Ways in Tunbridge Wells and the other from Tonbridge Railway Station, where they were met with crowds clapping and cheering them along the route.

Continued

‘People

a

We

people in the

a gentle breeze

SUNDAY JUNE 18

Low 15° High 25° Sunny spells with a gentle breeze

MONDAY JUNE 19

Low 13° High 25° Light showers and a gentle breeze

TUESDAY JUNE 20

Councillor won’t resign over SEND stand

By Lilly Croucher

A COUNTY councillor has refused to resign over controversial remarks made about families whose children have special educational needs (SEN), as parent groups and experts pile on the pressure.

During a Kent County Council (KCC) SEND Sub-Committee meeting on March 22 2023, two Conservative councillors, Simon Webb for Maidstone and Sarah Hudson for Tonbridge and Malling, made ‘offensive’ comments that were widely condemned.

Apology

At the most recent SEND meetiNg on Tuesday June 6, a statement from Simon Webb confirmed his resignation from the committee and included an apology for his comment that parents apply for the extra support as it is “the in-thing to do”.

In his statement, Mr Webb wrote: “Colleagues will be aware that during the last SEND Sub-Committee on March 22, 2023, I introduced phraseology which clearly caused hurt and distress to parents, which was never my intention.

“I wish to apologise for the statements I made and as such after a period of reflection, I believe it is absolutely correct for me to resign from your committee.”

However, Sarah Hudson said she would not resign over her comments, in which she claimed parents choose not to take their SEN children to school in order to claim extra benefits.

Ms Hudson told the Times: “I have no intention of resigning. There is clearly much work to be done and I have a role to hold the

executive to account, in the best interests of all taxpayers.”

She told the committee in March: “There are families who have never, even once, taken their own child to school because the state pays for a cab to take them.

“They are deliberately choosing that route because they see all the add-ons that go with it and they think, ‘This is b***** good. Let’s go for it.’”

However, a neurodiversity specialist from Tunbridge Wells questioned Ms Hudson’s continue presence on the committee.

Liz Hawker, founder of SEN consultancy, One in Five, told the Times: “Families should be hearing about how SEND services for their children are getting on the right track – not Mr Webb claiming that his offensive comments were down to a linguistic slip.

“It’s time for KCC to wake up to its responsibilities and speak to Ms Hudson about the suitability of her involvement.”

Kent PACT, an SEN parent representative group, first raised issues with KCC.

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In an open letter in May 2023 to the committee’s chairman, Mr Perry Cole, they called the comments ‘derogatory and disparaging’ and requested a formal apology to the SEN families and for changes to be made. The parent group said they would not attend meetings until those changes were made.

In an emailed reply to Kent PACT, Mr Cole said: “I recognise that during any such debate, there will be exchanges which some people will find challenging or uncomfortable.

“I believe that the greater harm is done by creating an environment where members feel unable to express challenging views.

“From where I sat, it seemed to me that the opinions expressed at the sub-committee were expressed in a calm and thoughtful way, even if there were opinions expressed and/or in a way with which not everyone would have agreed.

“It is right that I permit challenging views to be expressed in a calm reasonable way.

“In line with the codes that apply to other debates at the Council, I will not permit gratuitously offensive, personally disrespectful or otherwise inappropriate comments in debates or enquiries of this sub-committee in particular.”

The Times approached KCC but said it would not comment on political issues.

‘Everyone, bar one’ wants cycle path

Continued from front page

Cyclists were joined by local councillors, including Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) Cllr Ben Chapelard (Lib Dem), who told the Times: “People want a cycle path. We had people in the shops coming out clapping us, people coming out of their houses...

“TWBC – we are all for it – but it’s Kent County Council’s (KCC) final decision.”

Representing Tonbridge, and cycling in support of the campaign, KCC member and Borough councillor Mr Mark Hood (Green) told the Times: “We’ve got a situation where every single councillor along the route, bar one, wants this dedicated off-road cycle route. and it’s a key strategic link between the two towns.

“If we can get more people on bikes, it means we will have less people on the roads in cars ... Cycling is good for mental health, physical health, it’s good for the environment,” Mr Hood added.

“The Active Travel funding is there, and it’s up to us to make sure that West Kent, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge get that funding.”

Voicing his opposition to the project, Peter Oakford (Conservative) KCC member for Tunbridge Wells North told the Times:

“The A26 is one of the busiest roads in Kent and has been deemed by professional KCC Highways engineers as unsuitable

for an on-road cycle route.

“Cycling must be developed within areas where families and young people can be encouraged to cycle knowing they are safe to do so, away from high-density major roads. The A26 Does not meet this goal.

“I understand TWBC is developing a plan for a cycle route from Rusthall into TW which is off-road, and I am very supportive of it,” he added.

Dangerous

“At the moment, if you’re cycling back into Tonbridge, you have to cross the slip road to the A21, and that is extremely dangerous, and I wouldn’t let my children do that and I don’t expect any parent to do that either.”

Speaking to the Times, TWBC Walking and Cycling Champion, Cllr Peter Lidstone (Lib Dem) said: “A lot of people cycle already, and many children are cycling along the A26, so why not, even if it’s just part of a stretch, provide something safer. “I agree we can’t do a perfect cycle lane, but I think you can’t let perfect be the enemy of good.”

One main concern of the project is how it will be funded with the government making cuts to the Active Travel England fund and the increased budget pressures on KCC.

Cllr Lidstone said: “There is money still out there, so we are confident that this scheme is not beyond the realm of their ability to fund it.

“There are developers who, whenever they build near the A26, give the Council money to mitigate the impact of the development on the roads. We can use that.

“In the past there was £600,000 of funding [from Active Travel England] under a different scheme from here [Southborough] to Tonbridge by widening the pavement and allowing shared use. It got blocked by KCC, so we lost that funding and it had to be returned. This is not the first time it has happened.”

PEDAL POWER: Alice Thomas, Bicycle Mayor of Tonbridge

CONTROVERSY: County Hall, Maidstone, with (insets) Sarah Hudson and Simon Webb

NEWS IN BRIEF

Monson Road closed to traffic this week

YESTERDAY (June 13) Monson Road in central Tunbridge Wells was closed to traffic from Newton Rd to Mt Pleasant Rd and motorists were urged to avoid the area. The road is expected to remain closed until June 16, while workers attempt to fix a sinkhole that developed in the road, along with a possible water leak.

Council offers free bus service

KENT County Council is offering free bus services in Kent and Medway on June 24 and 25 in an initiative to encourage the use of buses.

This move has been made possible by government funding through Kent’s Enhanced Bus Partnership.

All routes on local bus services within Kent and Medway will be free to travel on from the first bus in the morning until 8pm on both the Saturday and Sunday. Buses that run outside Kent or Medway will be free up until the boundary, after which the normal fare will be charged.

English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) passholders will not need to show their passes until 8pm, or until they travel over the boundary.

TfL buses are not included in this initiative.

County lines drug dealer arrested

A SUSPECTED county lines dealer has been arrested in Tunbridge Wells.

On Tuesday 23 May 2023, police saw a Volvo they believed was being used in the supply of drugs parked in Victoria Road, Southborough. They spoke to the driver and detained him for a search under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

A bag containing 27 wraps of cocaine was recovered, along with a mobile phone and a quantity of cash.

The man was arrested.

Xhojs Bilali, 26, was later charged with possession of cocaine with intent to supply and acquiring criminal property.

He pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday May 24.

Man arrested for indecent exposure

A MAN has been held in connection with indecent exposure offences in rural areas near Paddock Wood.

In two separate allegations, women were targeted while riding horses in isolated areas. On both occasions the suspect drove slowly past the victims whilst committing an indecent act.

On Saturday June 10, a 29-year-old man from Paddock Wood was arrested. The suspect is currently on bail, pending further enquiries, until September 9.

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/98367/23.

Community comes together to say farewell to Frazer Allan

By Victoria Roberts

A TRAGIC death brought together the people of Tunbridge Wells in a send-off for Frazer Allan last week, as friends, family and businesses turned out for the 30-yearold’s funeral and wake.

The young man was found dead near Tunbridge Wells Railway Station early on the morning of May 11, an event that sparked an outpouring of shock.

On June 8, hundreds of people gathered outside St Mark’s Church in Broadwater Down to say their final goodbyes, followed by a family service at the crematorium, and then a public wake.

Touching

Mourners at St Mark’s greeted the arrival of Frazer’s coffin by a carriage pulled by two black horses, which was then carried into the church by family and friends.

A friend of Frazer’s, who was in attendance at the funeral, told the Times: “When a piper played while they carried his coffin inside, it was really touching for everyone there.”

The service was attended by close to 300 people, including Frazer’s parents, sisters and uncle, and was led by the Reverend Claire Allwood.

In a public post on Facebook, Frazer’s sister Paige paid tribute to her brother, thanking all of those who had come out to honour him, and to those who had set up a GoFundMe campaign to help the family cover the funeral expenses.

“What a truly amazing send-off for my big brother Frazer Allan. We hope we have done you proud,” she wrote.

“Yesterday was so tough but it was amazing to see how loved you truly were.”

Paige also thanked everyone who donated to the GoFundMe, and friends who had offered assistance in kind, including helping with the orders of service for both funerals, and making food.

Friends had also offered to do hair and makeup for the bereaved family, and a family friend had made Frazer’s flowers.

She also thanked those who shown “endless love and support” for her and the family.

Friends had organised additional remembrances for her brother, she added, including a balloon release, wristbands, memorial videos and special ‘Frazer Allan’

cocktails in memory of the fun-loving young man.

Thanking Cassidy’s on Castle Street and The Bedford at the top of the High Street, near Vale Road, for accommodating mourners for the wake, Paige said: “To all the staff, you lot are truly amazing.”

Responding to the public reaction to her brother’s death, Paige urged people not to let the outpouring of support fade out.

“Please remember to check in on your friends and family, to tell them you love them each day and please live life to the fullest. In a world [where] you can be anything, be kind.”

An inquest into Frazer’s death will be held in September.

New site proposed for Five Ways Post Office

A PROPOSAL has been made to relocate Five Ways Post Office to a new location at 37 Grosvenor Road.

In its new location, and under the supervision of a new, experienced postmaster, an extra 16.5 hours of Post Office services will be added each week, while offering the same wide range of services as the Post Office did before.

Modernise

The current Five Ways Post Office is based at 18 Grosvenor Road, but the proposal is to modernise the branch at a new location. The new premises, which are currently empty, will undergo a full refurbishment to incorporate Five Ways Post Office and a store selling cards, stationery, confectionery, drinks and tobacco.

Under the new proposal, there would be three serving positions: Two screened counters would be in a dedicated area of the store, offering the full range of Post Office services from Monday to Friday, 9am-5.30pm; Saturday: 9am-1pm.

There would also be a Post Office counter alongside the retail counter, offering

selected services. This would be open Monday to Friday: 8am- 7pm; Saturday: 9am-5pm.

These new changes and extra hours would increase the convenience to post office users.

As part of a full refurbishment, a raised threshold at the floor would be removed to make the access level, and so provide improve access for customers.

Internally, there would be a hearing loop, a low-level writing desk, a low-level

serving counter and space for a wheelchair.

Consultation for the proposed move has begun. Those wishing to offer their feedback have until July 14 to do so. Customers can share their views online during the consultation at postofficeviews. co.uk with the branch code 003948. Submissions can also be made via email to comments@postoffice.co.uk or by post to Freepost YOUR COMMENTS; call 03452 66 01 15 or textphone 03457 22 33 55.

FIVE WAYS POST OFFICE

SERVICE: Mr Allan’s coffin arrived by horse and carriage

Picture: Paige Allan

Tunbridge Wells police clamp down on antisocial behaviour

By Michelle Wood

TWO teenagers have been arrested and charged as local police clamp down on antisocial behaviour in Tunbridge Wells. The boys were detained following allegations that residents at an address in High Brooms had been assaulted and subjected to threats of violence made in an unprovoked incident on the evening of Monday, May 29.

Enquiries by local officers led to the suspects, both 13, being arrested in the early hours of Wednesday June 7.

They were charged with public order and assault offences and one of the boys was remanded to court the following day.

They were also charged in connection with an unrelated theft from a town centre restaurant. Both are currently bailed to attend Medway Magistrates’ Court in July.

Concerns

The arrest follows a report in the Times on May 17 outlining concerns around the rise of antisocial behaviour in the town.

Over the coming months, enhanced patrols will continue to target crime hotspots in Tunbridge Wells in actions aimed at reducing antisocial behaviour and offences including shop thefts, assaults and criminal damage.

Officers from the Community Safety Unit have identified areas of concern, including parks and other locations near St John’s Road, as well as in the town centre, which will see a greater police presence.

The crackdown is being supported by partner agencies, including social services and housing teams, schools, and the Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit.

District Commander for Tunbridge Wells, Chief Inspector Stuart Paul, said: ‘Antisocial behaviour can have a massive impact on people’s lives, and while some crimes may appear to be low-level, it is important that offenders, no matter how young they may be, realise they cannot continue

without fear of consequence.

“We are aware of a number of ongoing issues in parts of Tunbridge Wells, which we believe are being caused by a very small minority of young people.

“Our officers and PCSOs are walking the local parks and streets to deter and disrupt those responsible. We are also engaging with local businesses to reduce problems at premises, including shops and fast-food takeaways,” Mr Paul added.

“Whilst we remain determined to prosecute those who are committing crime, it is equally important to interact with young people to make them feel safe and supported. They may be victims of violence and other serious issues themselves, and it is crucial they are aware of support which is available from police and our partners.”

The drive to reduce antisocial behaviour in Tunbridge Wells coincides with the Force’s Safer Summer initiative, which has a focus around violent crime, antisocial behaviour and road safety and sees officers taking part in a range of operations to help tackle issues affecting their communities.

Planned activities include high-visibility patrols in crime and antisocial behaviour

hotspots, road checks to identify speeding and other traffic offences, and walk-andtalk events for women and girls in particular, to share their views on how they can be helped to feel safer.

Focus

The Safer Summer initiative also comes at a time when the force has launched its new neighbourhood policing model, with a larger Rural Task Force, the introduction of child-centred policing teams, and a renewed focus on community beat officers, which will be the operational focus of the force’s own Neighbourhood Policing Week, from Monday 19 June.

Superintendent Pete Steenhuis, Head of Prevention at Kent Police, said: “Keeping people safe is a year-round priority for Kent Police, but the longer days and warmer weather of the summer months can often lead to increases in crime and antisocial behaviour that require a specific focus from us to tackle.

“We fully appreciate the impact crime and antisocial behaviour has on people’s quality of life and want to address the issues that matter most to them.”

Trainers to offer free outdoor gym sessions

THE LOCAL authority is to boost the use of the Borough’s outdoor gyms through a personal trainer-led summer programme. One or more personal trainers will give 30 sessions on using the park-based equipment over 10 weeks this summer, with the aim of helping more residents use the facilities in the long term.

Recruitment

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s (TWBC) trainers recruitment campaign, which closes tonight (June 14) at midnight, specified that candidates should have experience of working with people who have long-term health conditions.

The trainers would aim to help people with a body mass index over 30 and those who people who are new to physical activity.

Sessions will take place at Sherwood, near the High Brooms playground, Showfields, by the library, and in Calverley Grounds, next to the Adventure Playground, with 10 weekly sessions in each location, running until September.

Announcing the project, TWBC said: “The aim of the project is to give residents the knowledge and confidence to use them long term. We hope that bringing people together to join in group sessions at the outdoor gyms will also help the community to forge new bonds and friendships, and that people may continue to meet up and use the gym together in the longer term.

“As outdoor gyms are free, and available 365 days of the year, this project will promote the ongoing benefits of using the gym.”

Questions to ask at the end of an Interview

So Neil, do you have any questions for us?

Er, erm, er, what are the chances of me being based in the south?

This is exactly what happened to me in my first interview with Pontins back in 1997, I’d always got lucky and managed to find jobs through friends or word of mouth prior to that. I don’t think it went against me as I did manage to secure a role as a Bluecoat, albeit the role was based in Prestatyn in North Wales, so my question wasn’t that relevant.

At TN Recruits, we coach our candidates through the interview process. We don’t spoon feed them the right things to say but tend to draw out the answers and questions to allow them to give the best version of themselves during the meeting.

It’s important not to draw a blank at the end of an interview when asked what questions you have for the interviewers, it’s good to have 3-5 questions up your sleeve. If the answers are covered during the discussion, explain what you were going to ask and thank them for being so thorough.

The questions you do ask should be impactful and should take an interest in the role and/or company. The more specific, the

better. Go through the job description and website to come up with insightful questions which show you have done your research; you may want to refer to the company values or awards they have won. You may even be able to find an employee on LinkedIn who has been promoted and ask about what has made that person successful. By showing an interest you may well be regarded as their next superstar employee. Low impact questions will be about benefits, parking, sick pay etc. All of which can be discussed at offer stage whereas your objective during the interview is to get the offer on the table in the first place. Furthermore, if you are going for the job through a recruitment consultant, they should be able to provide you with all the relevant information prior to committing to your CV submission.

If you are embarking on your next career move, please do contact TN Recruits. We have a variety of excellent local opportunities and will provide all the support during the application and interview process to give you the best chance of finding your dream job.

www.tnrecruits.com 01892 571105 neil@tnrecruits.com

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: Police will be monitoring the town centre for antisocial behaviour

FIT FOR OFFICE: Greg Clark MP at Calverley Grounds

King Charles I coin fetches £2,000 at Hansons auction

By Lilly Croucher

A 400-YEAR-old coin was sold at auction last week for £2,000 after it was found by a couple from Tunbridge Wells in a pile of loose change.

While the rest of us check our pockets for a limited edition 50p, one local resident found the centuries-old coin at the back of her late aunt’s dressing table amongst 200 other coins and old banknotes.

Expert

She believed it to be a fake and left it in a box of old coins, until an antiques expert revealed the coin’s true value.

The gold coin features a portrait of King Charles I (1600-1649) of England, Scotland, and Ireland, who reigned from March 27, 1625, until his execution in 1649.

The Charles I gold ‘unite’ coin, circa 1625, went under the hammer at Hansons Royal Tunbridge Wells on May 30 and was sold for £2,000.

Robin Fletcher of Hansons, said: “The owner said she thought it was a fake so she had just left it, but when I got back to the office I had another look at it and confirmed it was an early 17th-century solid gold coin.

“These coins are not really rare, but there is a limited number of them as many were destroyed by parliamentarians after the King’s execution and many were melted down for the gold.

Sailing club gains Paralympic recognition for participation

By Victoria Roberts

“It was sold to a private buyer online for £2,000 – smack bang in the middle of my valuation of £1,500 to £2,500.

“Since this story has been picked up, I’ve been inundated with people showing me their coins,” Mr Fletcher added.

“Just this week I’ve had James I, Elizabeth I and William III coins that can go for between a few hundred to a couple thousand.

“But it all depends on the rarity and the condition. If coins have been rubbing against other coins for years, it can affect the coin’s condition.

“A coin can be a few decades or a few centuries old but if it’s in good condition, the difference can be between £5-£1,000.”

“Next month we are having a specialist jewellery, gold and coin day here at Hansons on July 11.”

A SAILING club which allows those with physical impairments to sail with nondisabled crews has been recognised by the national Paralympics board.

Based at Bewl Water, near Lamberhurst, the Mariners of Bewl have their own fleet of adaptive dinghies which cater for a range of physical needs and sailing abilities.

Barriers

The Mariners were named ‘Club of the Month’ by the ‘Every Body Moves’ initiative, which helps people find activities that break down barriers to participation.

The Mariners sail from 10am to 1pm on Saturday mornings, from the beginning of April to the end of October.

Club Chairperson Carolyn Howden said: “I am very proud to receive this award for our club. It’s very important to congratulate

all our members, as they are what makes it special. Being active and out in the great outdoors, especially here at beautiful Bewl is just the medicine that we all need, and I would encourage others to come along and enjoy the great experience of sailing.”

Baden Knifton, Every Body Moves

Engagement Officer at ParalympicsGB, said: “MoB are a fantastic example of a truly inclusive club going the extra mile to open participation up to as many people as possible. They’re thoroughly deserving winners.”

The Mariners will now be entered into the ‘Club of the Year’ vote in December. For more details, email:enquiries@ mariners-of-bewl.org.uk or visit: mariners-of-bewl.org.uk

Other activities can be found at: everybodymoves.org.uk

Bewl Water is run by Elite Leisure Collection, which also owns One Media, publisher of the Times

THE CHARLES I COIN

SAILING FOR ALL: Carolyn Howden (centre) with the award and the Mariners of Bewl

Mount Ephraim home re-opens

Diabetes support group appeals for new Chair

IN this, Diabetes Week (June 12-18), the Tunbridge Wells Area Parents Support Group for Diabetes UK is appealing for a volunteer to chair the group.

Set up several years ago to support families of children with type 1 diabetes, the group plays a vital role in helping young people in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas living with diabetes.

Activities

Now, the group needs a new Chair to head up meetings, lead activities and represent Diabetes UK in the local community. The children of many of the original group members have grown up, so some parents are moving on, but they still want the group to continue to thrive.

By Victoria Roberts

A MOTHER and daughter have moved back to Tunbridge Wells after five years away, as the Mount Ephraim House care home re-opened last week.

The home, which is part of the not-forprofit Greensleeves Care group, was built in the 1840s. It has just undergone a major, five-year renovation programme, which saw 27 residents transferred to another Greensleeves Care home in Sevenoaks.

Residents

One of those residents was Cynthia –the mother of Mount Ephraim House’s Manager, Karen Cooper – and both of them finally made their way back

to the home last week.

“Mount Ephraim House has always been a home away from home to me, and indeed a home to my mother,” said Karen, who has headed up the care home, which is on Mount Ephraim, since 2007.

“To be returning to the home along with my mother is really special, and we can’t wait to settle in and start welcoming more residents to our beloved home.”

Following construction delays and the impact of Covid-19, Cynthia and one other original resident made the move back to the newly-renovated home last week.

They were joined by six other residents from the sister home in Sevenoaks, who will now be closer to their families in Tunbridge Wells.

The renovation had been designed to

preserve the character of the building, a move that pleased both the Civic Society –which gave the project an award last year – and residents, who will find familiar features in their home, said Ms Cooper.

“It’s so much nicer, and so nice to be back here with our residents,” she told the Times

Garden

Cynthia, who originally came to Mount Ephraim House aged 82, is now 88, and loves her new room overlooking the rear garden, said Karen.

The home now features 57 en-suite rooms, a conservatory, a new secure rear garden and a balcony offering views of Tunbridge Wells Common.

Charlotte Burford, Engaging Communities and Volunteering Manager at Diabetes UK said: “When a child is diagnosed with diabetes, it can be a confusing and difficult time, and being able to talk to others who have been through the same experience can be very helpful.

“The group supports families as they deal with type 1 diabetes, with regular face-toface get-togethers for parents, as well as organising events for the children. For some of the children, attending one of these events is the first time they meet other children with type 1 diabetes and it can make a big difference.”

If anyone is interested in finding out more about the volunteer role, or joining the group, please email info@twapsg.org.uk

CYNTHIA AND KAREN

REFURBISHED: The renovated lounge at Mount Ephraim House

Charities benefit from South East Water fund

By Sharon Bruce

Even though further water outages were experienced in the area this week, good causes in Crowborough and surrounds have benefited from a £50,000 community fund that was set up in the wake of water supply issues experienced by the community at the end of last year.

South East Water was joined by Wealden MP Nusrat Ghani to distribute the funds to charities, with each organisation receiving grants towards their projects.

Share

Groups and organisations were selected by a judging panel after being invited to apply for a share of the fund.

Cheques were then awarded to the charities and their representatives at

a ceremony in Crowborough.

South East Water’s Customer Service Director, Tanya Sephton said: “We know it was a very tough time for the whole community...

“We take our role as a responsible water company seriously and wanted to thank residents in Crowborough and the surrounding areas for their understanding.

“There’s no better way to support the tireless work of these great causes that are right at the heart of the community.

“A big thank you to them all,” she added. Nusrat Ghani said: “I welcome this additional grant of £50,000 that is being distributed amongst our fantastic local charities.

“[They] provide vital services and support for Wealden communities and will benefit from this much-needed funding boost.”

Choir seeks new musical director

THE Singing for Fun choir in Crowborough is urgently looking for a new musical director. Their current musical director, Mark Beesley, is retiring in June after 14 years with the choir. During this time, he helped the ladies to improve their singing skills, while raising thousands of pounds for local charities.

Eclectic

Singing for Fun is a small, non-auditioned ladies’ choir of almost 40 members that was formed with the aim of singing together for enjoyment. The choir meets at the United

Church, Croft Road, Crowborough, on a Monday evening during term time, from 7pm to 9pm.

Singing for Fun performs at least two concerts a year, as well as at a range of local events. As an eclectic group, the choir has a wide-ranging repertoire, from classics to pop music.

The musical director post becomes available in September 2023, and fees for the successful candidate will be arranged between them and the Committee.

For more information or to apply for the position, come along to a Monday rehearsal or visit: singingforfuncrowborough.com

SINGING FOR FUN: The choir performs at least two concerts a year

THANKFUL:

Wealden MP Nusrat Ghani (front, fifth from left) with the charity representatives

Mental Health Resource partners with local PR

A family-friendly venture

A family-friendly venture

THERE are few things in this world that bring me more joy than being at a country pub in the sunshine.

If you’re a regular on West Kent’s culinary circuit, you may have already come across the pair of them.

If you’re a regular on West Kent’s culinary circuit, you may have already come across the pair of them.

Zizzi’s, Loch Fyne in Sevenoaks, The Mill House, Tootsies and The Abergavenny Arms.

Zizzi’s, Loch Fyne in Sevenoaks, The Mill House, Tootsies and The Abergavenny Arms.

“We always wanted to open our own place,” Katie tells me, “but we had to find a way that worked for us. Saying this, we were very impulsive when the opportunity arose to take the over the lease of The Brecknock Arms – it was simply too good an opportunity to pass up.”

“We always wanted to open our own place,” Katie tells me, “but we had to find a way that worked for us. Saying this, we were very impulsive when the opportunity arose to take the over the lease of The Brecknock Arms – it was simply too good an opportunity to pass up.” They signed on the dotted line on April 23, and, within four weeks, they had moved house, renovated and opened the pub.

They signed on the dotted line on April 23, and, within four weeks, they had moved house, renovated and opened the pub.

Katie Bagley’s new venture.

When my colleague and I arrive at The Brecknock Arms one lunchtime, the summer sun has finally arrived and is blazing down upon Digby Furneaux and Katie Bagley’s new venture.

LOCAL charity, Mental Health Resource, has announced that Coco Piesse, from Chatty Hatter PR, will be joining them as their first-ever Mental Health Ambassador.

Charity Manager Rachel Corry made the announcement to staff and clients during Mental Health Awareness Week.

The role of ambassador was offered to Ms Piesse in recognition of her work in raising awareness and funds for the charity, through both Chatty Hatter PR and her popular community podcast, The Big Chat.

Mental Health Resource was established in 1993 and the charity supports more than

Katie has worked in bars and restaurants throughout her career, but her main experience stems from the restaurant Cau in Tunbridge Wells, where she was general manager for four

Katie has worked in bars and restaurants throughout her career, but her main experience stems from the restaurant Cau in Tunbridge Wells, where she was general manager for four

800 people each year with free and confidential wellbeing activities, advocacy and running outreach groups.

Ms Piesse joins a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who support those with mental health illnesses, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis, borderline personality disorder and more. She said:

“Mental health is an issue which is very dear to my heart, and I am absolutely over the moon to be asked to become an Ambassador, to help the charity reach more people.”

To find out more about the charity’s free projects, visit: mentalhealthresource.org

WE LOVE YOU: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Assembly Hall

years. It was here that she met Digby, who has been in the industry since he was 11 years old and worked in his parent’s restaurant in Lincoln. Other than a brief two-year flirtation with IT, Digby’s life has been in hospitality. After moving down to Tunbridge Wells at the age of 16, he’s worked at The Viva on Mount Pleasant, Ask,

years. It was here that she met Digby, who has been in the industry since he was 11 years old and worked in his parent’s restaurant in Lincoln.

Half-term hit musical raises

Other than a brief two-year flirtation with IT, Digby’s life has been in hospitality. After moving down to Tunbridge Wells at the age of 16, he’s worked at The Viva on Mount Pleasant, Ask,

£2,500

By Victoria Roberts

So, what can we expect from the new Brecknock? According to Digby, their secret recipe is looking forward.

for stillbirth charity

AN AMATEUR production of a classic family musical packed the Assembly Hall and filled the collecting buckets for charity, thanks to the theatre company’s biggest audiences in a decade.

Ovations

The Tunbridge Wells Operatic and Dramatic Society’s (TWODS) production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang had standing ovations and full auditoriums during its four-day run over the half-term holiday. The show had secured TWODS its biggest audiences in 10 years, according to

So, what can we expect from the new Brecknock? According to Digby, their secret recipe is looking forward.

“Sadly, a lot of pubs have been closing lately,” he notes, “and I believe it’s because so many are stuck in the past. You cannot last if you refuse to move with the times.”

“Sadly, a lot of pubs have been closing lately,” he notes, “and I believe it’s because so many are stuck in the past. You cannot last if you refuse to move with the times.”

“It was so nice to see the theatre full again after a challenging time following the pandemic,” she said.

The pair believe that the modern average pub-goer expects more from their local than previous generations. To them, a pub that hasn’t changed in 30 years simply won’t cut it anymore. There is a demand for a higher quality service, a greater variety of good drinks, and a menu that is reflective of the county.

The pair believe that the modern average pub-goer expects more from their local than previous generations. To them, a pub that hasn’t changed in 30 years simply won’t cut it anymore. There is a demand for a higher quality service, a greater variety of good drinks, and a menu that is reflective of the county.

“Hopefully another generation [of theatre-goers] will come and support us in the future.”

“And the icing on the cake – we collected over £2,500 for the charity SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity).”

But even that’s not enough according to them. The above is no secret to pub success. A lot of popular pubs have already implemented these sorts of changes, so you need an edge –something that will help you stand out from the crowd: “We don’t want to be a carbon copy of other establishments.”

But even that’s not enough according to them. The above is no secret to pub success. A lot of popular pubs have already implemented these sorts of changes, so you need an edge –something that will help you stand out from the crowd: “We don’t want to be a carbon copy of other establishments.”

TWODS’ next production is A Chorus Line at Trinity Theatre in November.

Sands supports families affected by the death of a baby before, during or shortly after birth, offering a helpline, support app, support groups and trained ‘befrienders’. Find out more at: sands.org.uk

The four of us are sitting in the sprawling garden behind the pub. It’s a beautiful space and one that is not going to waste – certainly not if this young family has anything to do with it.

The four of us are sitting in the sprawling garden behind the pub. It’s a beautiful space and one that is not going to waste – certainly not if this young family has anything to do with it.

COCO PIESSE

Marketing Manager Anna Dunbar.

THERE are few things in this world that bring me more joy than being at a country pub in the sunshine.

When my colleague and I arrive at The Brecknock Arms one lunchtime, the summer sun has finally arrived and is blazing down upon Digby Furneaux and

With a clear goal for what they hope to achieve, Digby Furneaux and Katie Bagley, along with their young son and puppy, have reinvigorated The Brecknock Arms in Bells Yew Green. Here, Hannah Patterson discovers what they have in store…

‘A lot of pubs have been closing lately… it’s because so many are stuck in the past. You cannot last if you refuse to move with the times’

A NEW CHAPTER Katie Bagley, Digby Furneaux and son Barnaby

With a clear goal for what they hope to achieve, Digby Furneaux and Katie Bagley, along with their young son and puppy, have reinvigorated The Brecknock Arms in Bells Yew Green. Here, Hannah Patterson discovers what they have in store…

‘A lot of pubs have been closing lately… it’s because so many are stuck in the past. You cannot last if you refuse to move with the times’

A NEW CHAPTER Katie Bagley, Digby Furneaux and son Barnaby

When helping vulnerable people is the reason for a Law Firm’s existence

WHEN Jane Bennett founded JE Bennett Law with husband Tom Beaufoy in 2012, it was born from frustration at a legal career where helping those in need seemed hampered by the constraints of larger, diverse firms. A decade later and she is the Managing Partner of a niche Law Firm, specialising in helping the vulnerable with Court of Protection, Powers of Attorney, Wills and Probate matters.

Like many of those who have subsequently joined her at JE Bennett Law, Jane has her own backstory - a personal drive to want to help those unable to help themselves. Several of the team have entered the field after battling to support a vulnerable loved one. In many respects the work is a calling. Consequently, an understanding and empathy with the client’s perspective is as entrenched in the firm’s values as the necessary legal expertise. JE Bennett Law has developed a culture of caring and compassion but matches this with a thorough understanding of a complex area of law - and a steely resolve to provide the best solution for the client.

The success of the model, and consistently increasing demand has dictated an expanding team and when

the premises in Sevenoaks finally became outgrown, the firm relocated to Tunbridge Wells last summer - following the same relocation path as owners Jane and Tom a few years previously.

Now a team of 30, including 8 partners, the firm still retains both its family ownership and family values, and continues to maintain a focus on helping vulnerable clients and their loved ones. The whole team shares a passion for helping the vulnerable and the resulting success of the business has not gone unnoticed. The firm, and several individual partners, are highly ranked in prestigious industry ratings and the firm is also in high demand for Expert Witness services in this field. JE Bennett Law also has the rarity of 2 (of only around 60 appointed nationwide) Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) Panel Deputies. Jane commented “Many firms offer what we do as part of their broader practice. We are relatively unique in specialising in this area of law. Our entire team is focused on helping the vulnerable with no other distractions. From a starting position as Court of Protection specialists, we’ve expanded only into legal areas that enable us to provide a full service to vulnerable clients. So, we have expertise in Powers of Attorney, and Wills and Estate Administration (Probate) because all those legal services can interconnect at some point. It means we can offer full or additional services to our clients that need it, but also if someone just needs a Will or Estate Administration advice, or an LPA (Lasting Power of Attorney) we can do that too – and you’ll receive the same level of care and service.”

Located in Linden Close, by The Pantiles, JE Bennett Law is welcoming the opportunity to

The Firm’s Business

JE Bennett Law is an industry-leading Law Firm that acts for those who:

• Are limited in their ability to manage their own financial and healthcare needs due to events in their lives/personal trauma

• Want to plan for a time when they may lack capacity

• Want to plan what will happen to their estate when they have passed

• Want assistance with the administering of an estate

Legal Services:

• Court of Protection Law

• Power of Attorney

• Wills

• Probate (Estate Administration)

• Personal Injury Trusts

make new connections in Tunbridge Wells. Jane continued “It has been fantastic opening our new office in Tunbridge Wells, which is such a vibrant town. We love it and are here to stay!”

To contact the JE Bennett Law Team Call: 01892 487746 www.jebennettlaw.co.uk info@jebennettlaw.co.uk

The Firm is Legal 500 ranked, Lexcel Accredited (the Law Society’s legal practice quality mark for practice management and client care) and SRA regulated. Individual lawyers are ranked in The Legal 500. Jane Bennett is in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame and also ranked in Chambers. JE Bennett Law has two Office of the Public Guardian panel deputies.

Court of Protection and Deputyships

JE Bennett Law act as professional deputies and provide support to lay deputies. The team acts for those who, due to events in their lives/personal trauma, are limited in their ability to manage their own financial and health/care needs. We also advise their family members, who are often going through an extremely stressful time due to

having to fight (often for a very long time), for their loved one’s rights. This requires considerable expertise, empathy, and commitment to what is a growing and ever more complex practice area.

JE Bennett Law has more than 200 professional deputyship clients. The firm has 2 (of only around 60 appointed nationwide) Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) Panel Deputies.

The firm’s core business is about helping private clients on matters regarding the Court of Protection plus Powers of Attorney, Wills and Probate.

The Firm’s Linden Close Premises

JANE BENNETT

New legislation to expand workers’ rights for flexible working

With the new Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill now making its progress through Parliament, changes may soon be coming to UK businesses that give staff further legal rights to enable workers to request hybrid working or make other changes to when and where they work. Loch Associates Group, the South East’s leading MultiService Law and HR business, explains why this may be a welcome change for workers but perhaps not so for business owners.

Flexible working is here to stay – so it’s important for employers to ensure they have their company policies in place, says Pam Loch, Solicitor and Managing Director of Loch Associates Group. With the Flexible Working Bill close to becoming law, workers will soon be awarded the right to request flexible working as soon as they start working for an employer and be able to make a request twice every 12 months. This change comes at the same time as many businesses are requesting employees to return to work in their offices so employees could, in the near future, be able to acquire rights to reverse that and request to work from home again.

“We do currently have flexible working legislation in the UK, but you can only request a change to where and when you work if you have had 26 weeks of continuous service with your employer — and only once a year, with three months to make a determination has to be made,” says Pam. “Under the new legislation, all employees will now have the right to request flexible working twice in a 12-month period - no matter how long they have been with a business - and are entitled to a decision within two months, not three.”

This Bill follows a recommendation in the Good Work Plan in 2019 and a commitment by the Government to create a duty for all employers to assess if a job can be done flexibly and to make that clear when advertising a role. Pam says “Covid and the tighter recruitment market has resulted in this commitment to some extent, being fulfilled without the Government forcing changes on employers to be more flexible. As more people want hybrid working, employers have been compelled to offer flexible working to attract and retain employees.”

However, legislation will place a more onerous obligation on employers to seriously consider flexible working. This should then result in reinforcing the changes which have taken place in the way many of us work and in the recruitment process while potentially creating a more diverse workplace.

Building relationships one mentor at a time

By Victoria Roberts

A MENTOR once made a difference to Langton Greenbased Fran Boorman when finding her place in the construction industry, and now she is working on platforms and practices to integrate others.

Despite being “fascinated” by construction, she left her first three jobs in the industry, until a mentoring programme in her fourth job made things click for her.

“The sector has moved on a lot, but it was massively male-dominated,” she said.

“But when I had that first mentor, it was just amazing. I realised I could fit in there.”

Now, as the founder of Goal 17, she works with companies to designate and train mentors who will engage with those who are under-represented in the company or industry – whether women, young people from care, ex-offenders or those who have experienced homelessness.

Safeguarding

While ensuring there is mentor training and safeguarding on the industry side, Ms Boorman stressed that they only made contact with the young people through charities.

“They are the experts in that sector, and generally these are people who need some other support around them,” she explained.

“We make donations to our charity partners to help them fund the vital work they are doing with the young people our clients’ mentor.”

Goal 17 works with a variety of companies, including law firms, but the most important sector remains construction, said Ms Boorman.

“There is a huge responsibility for the construction sector to do something in the communities where they are working,” she said.

“Typically, these are young people who are furthest away from the employment market.

“We have got stories of young people who are making that first step into the industry.”

Mentoring can even be used inside companies to help develop staff who are traditionally under-represented in management, for example.

Now, thanks to a £50,000 grant from government agency Innovate UK, Goal 17 is taking the mentoring

process a step further, by creating a new platform –Wowment – to help monitor the relationships. Some clients are already using a beta version of the platform, but in the next step, an artificial intelligence (AI) plug-in will help clients start understanding the mentoring process in order to improve it.

“The Wowment platform will facilitate mentoring partnerships between construction workers and minority groups within local communities.

“The platform will then use AI to provide data and evidence to record the social impact construction workers are making,” explained Ms Boorman. Such data could even eventually help construction companies demonstrate their track record of community engagement.

“The cherry on the cake is that with this innovation we will then also be able to help these companies evidence the impact they are making to win more bids,” she added.

Innovative 3D-printing business wins industry award and plans expansion

By Sarah Carter

A GIFT business born during lockdown has brought home an industry award and is planning new prototypes to satisfy continuing demand. Made Happy creates 3D-printed Lego-compatible cake-toppers, key chains and other ornaments.

The brainchild of Isabelle Davidge and her husband, the business has come a long way since spring 2020, when Isabelle, a nurse, was pregnant and not allowed to work face-to-face in pandemic conditions, while her pilot husband potentially faced redundancy. At that point, the family decided to invest in a 3D printer –and now they manage 150 of them.

Outgrown

www.lochassociates.co.uk

The printers create three-dimensional objects in food-safe eco-friendly plastic derived from sugar cane. Having outgrown the family’s garden shed, the company’s biggest markets outside the UK are the US, Australia and Germany, which it now serves from dedicated premises in Goudhurst, with four staff. Pride-themed objects such as necklaces, earrings and badges have joined the company’s product line, with

Made Happy sponsoring Tonbridge Pride this August. The company’s Lego-compatible letters have also been named Contemporary Gift of the Year 2023 at The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year awards.

“We were really quite flabbergasted to be shortlisted, and even more so to have won,” said Isabelle.

Made Happy is still looking to its future. Having been approved for a LoCASE (Low Carbon Across the South East) scheme grant, more equipment is on its way to Goudhurst, Isabelle told the Times

“We were just approved for a grant before it closed. This will go toward new printers, which can print in multiple colours and are more energy efficient.”

PAM LOCH

THE 3D PRINTERS AT WORK

FRAN BOORMAN

Vigil held for victims of Nottingham knife and van attack which killed two students

POLICE have confirmed three people died and three others were injured in a knife and van attack in Nottingham yesterday

A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder after a deadly rampage through the city in the early hours of yesterday morning (13 June).

Two people were stabbed to death in a student area of Nottingham at about 4am while the body of another victim was found in Magdala Road.

Three people were also hurt, one critically, when a suspect driving a van tried to run them over near the Theatre Royal.

The University of Nottingham confirmed that two of the victims were students at the university.

A statement read: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the sudden and unexpected death of two of our students following a major incident in Nottingham city centre overnight.

Counter Terrorism Policing to establish the facts – as we would normally do in these types of circumstances.

“We do have a man in custody who has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Currently, we do not believe there is anyone else involved in this incident.

“It is safe to go into the city centre but there are a number of streets that will remain closed including Ilkeston Road, Magdala Street, Milton Street and Maple Street. This is so officers can gather evidence in order to understand what has happened.”

Yorkshire Police, while others appeared to be specialist counter-terrorism firearms officers.

Witnesses in Bentinck Road described the suspect struggling as officers dragged him out of a white van.

Student Demi Ojolow, who lives in the road, said: “I just saw the police shouting at him to get out of the car and get on the floor.

“And they dragged him out of the car and he just fell on the floor. He was still pretty much wrestling at the point.

“We are shocked and devastated by the news and our thoughts are with those affected, their families and friends.

“We know this is likely to cause distress for staff and students in our community.

"Support is available through our support and wellbeing services for any of our community who may need it.”

A vigil organised by the leader of Nottingham City Council, David Mellen was held last night outside St Peter’s Church in the square for people to “come together to just take in the enormity and stand together”.

Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell said the force is working with counter-terrorism investigators to establish what happened.

Ms Meynell said: “This is a tragic series of events which has led to the lives of three innocent people being taken and left another member of the public in a critical condition in hospital.

“My thoughts are with all the families affected by this shocking incident and we will be working extremely hard to understand exactly what has happened.

“We are at the early stages of the investigation and need to determine the motives behind these attacks and will keep the public updated as soon as we are able to say more.

“We are keeping an open mind as we investigate the circumstances surrounding these incidents and are working alongside

Police activity continued in various locations along Ilkeston Road on Tuesday, with parts of the street cordoned off and armed officers deployed, some of whom came from Derbyshire Police and South Yorkshire Police, while others appeared to be specialist counter-terrorism firearms officers.

Harrowing

Witnesses have given harrowing accounts of victims being stabbed and run over by a van.

One witness told the BBC he saw a young man and young woman being stabbed in Ilkeston Road, close to the junction with Bright Street.

The man, who did not give his name, said he heard “awful, blood-curdling screams”.

He told the broadcaster: “She was screaming: ‘Help!’ I just wish I’d shouted something out of the window to unnerve the assailant.

“I saw him stab the lad first and then the woman. It was repeated stabbing – four or five times. The lad collapsed in the middle of the road.

“The girl stumbled towards a house and didn’t move. The next minute she had disappeared down the side of a house, and that’s where they found her.

“I’d say it all happened within five or six minutes. The attacker then just walked off up Ilkeston Road towards town, as calm as anything.”

Police activity continued in various locations along Ilkeston Road on Tuesday, with parts of the street cordoned off and armed officers deployed, some of whom came from Derbyshire Police and South

“They dragged him away and that was about it.”

Lynn Haggitt told Channel 4 News she saw two people who were hit by a van.

“I saw a van pull up at the side of me,” she said. “It was white, all white. There was a police car behind it, coming up slowly, no flashing lights.

“The man in the driver’s seat looked in his mirror and saw the police car behind him.”

She said the white van then drove up to “the corner of the street and went into two people”.

“The lady ended up on the kerb, and then he backed up the white van and he went… speeded up Parliament Street with the police cars following him,” Ms Haggitt added.

In a statement on Twitter yesterday, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “I want to thank the police and emergency services for their ongoing response to the shocking incident in Nottingham this morning.

“My thoughts are with those injured, and the family and loved ones of those who have lost their lives.”

CRIME SCENE: Forensic officers were on the scene of the attack

HORROR: The van from which the suspect was pulled

ON GUARD: A high police presence remained in the city centre after the attack in which three people died

All pictures: PA

Covid-19 inquiry told Brexit preparations impacted the UK’s pandemic planning

THE UK might not have been “very well prepared at all” to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, the Covid-19 inquiry was told by the lead lawyer as public hearings began yesterday.

Hugo Keith KC said yesterday (June 13) that the nation was “taken by surprise” by “significant aspects” of the disease, which has been recorded on 226,977 death certificates.

He explained that, near the start of the pandemic in March 2020, the Department of Health and Social Care, along with the three devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, published a Covid-19 action plan “setting out how they planned to tackle the coronavirus outbreak”.

“The plan stated that the United Kingdom was well prepared to respond in a way that offered substantial protection to the public. Whether that was actually the case will be examined in module one,” he said in his opening statement.

“Even at this stage, before hearing the evidence, it is apparent that we might not have been very well prepared at all.”

“But fundamentally, in relation to significant aspects of the Covid-19 pandemic, we were taken by surprise,” he added.

He argued that preparations for Brexit had distracted the Government from making the improvements required to the strategy on how to tackle a deadly pandemic.

Improvement

Mr Keith said it is “clear” that preparing for the EU departure “crowded out and prevented some or perhaps a majority of the improvements” that the Government knew was necessary.

Outside Dorland House in west London, a vigil was held by members of Covid Bereaved Families for Justice who held up photos of their loved ones.

Inquiry Chair Baroness Heather Hallett said the vigil was “dignified” and vowed that those who suffered in the pandemic will “always be at the heart of the inquiry” as she launched the first public hearing for the pandemic.

A 17-minute video of testimonies from some of the families describing the devastating impact the pandemic had on themselves and their loved ones, including those who died alone, was shown to the inquiry.

Pete Weatherby KC, representing the Covid Bereaved Families for Justice UK, said they expect evidence to show “chaos” in Government led to a slow reaction where “lost time is measured in lost lives”.

Lady Hallett said she had set out an “ambitious” timetable for the inquiry, adding: “To conduct the kind of thorough investigation the people of the United Kingdom deserve takes time and a great deal of preparation.

Tory infighting continues as Boris Johnson committee report set to conclude today

THE Boris Johnson legacy is to be sealed today as the Privileges Committee judgment is published while a bitter public feud with Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak continues. The Committee’s report over whether Mr Johnson deliberately misled MPs over Partygate is expected to recommend that Mr Johnson be sanctioned with a suspension of more than 10 days, thus triggering a by-election.

Spat

Mr Johnson later resigned from Parliament in protest against what is dubbed in his resignation letter as a “kangaroo court”. He vowed: “I’ll be back.”

Meanwhile, the former Prime Minister is currently embroiled in a public spat with Rishi Sunak over his resignation honours list.

Mr Johnson criticised Mr Sunak over his handling of his honours lists, with his allies accusing the Prime Minister of having “secretly blocked” the peerages of former culture secretary, Nadine Dorries and others.

The argument descended into a public showdown between the former colleagues when Mr Sunak claimed his successor had asked him to “do something I wasn’t prepared to do” and suggested Mr Johnson wanted him to ignore the recommendations of the House of Lords Appointments Commission (Holac).

Mr Johnson released a statement saying: “Rishi Sunak is talking rubbish.

“To honour these peerages, it was not necessary to overrule Holac – but simply to ask them to renew their vetting, which was a

mere formality.”

But the Cabinet Office said: “Holac did not support the nominations of the MPs put forward by the former Prime Minister.

“It is unprecedented for a sitting prime minister to invite Holac to reconsider the vetting of individual nominees on a former prime minister’s resignation list.

“It is, therefore, not a formality.”

It has also been understood that Mr Johnson was given updates on the list before he met Mr Sunak in June.

Nadine Dorries, who also resigned on Friday, claimed information about what was needed from her to pass the vetting process for the House of Lords was not given to her in time and accused the Prime Minister of “duplicitously and cruelly” blocking her appointment.

However, Mr Johnson was provided with information via the Cabinet Office about his list sometime after the House of Lords Appointments Commission (Holac) sent a list to Mr Sunak in February of the seven approved names, which were announced on Friday.

BORIS JOHNSON

LOST: People hold pictures of their loved ones outside the Covid-19 inquiry

Geoff Mason Green Party

Reasons to be cheerful

DURING this period of wonderfully warm and dry weather, we at the Green Party thought it would be useful to mention some more reasons to be cheerful.

Firstly, there were many Green gains across Kent and in adjoining areas in the local elections.

Result

In Tunbridge Wells we were pleased to stand in all seats for the first time, with a gender-balanced slate, and received a record 8.2% of the vote across the Borough, indicating a likely strong result in the coming General Election. We were pleased to come second to the Conservatives in Frittenden & Sissinghurst, and we look forward to next year’s ‘all out’ elections in the new Wards.

Across Kent, the Greens won an impressive 24 seats, bringing the number of Green councillors in Kent to 52 (see the diagram, showing the degree of Green representation across Kent), and in the adjacent Wealden District Council the

Greens won enough seats to jointly lead the Council with the Lib Dems.

The benefits of a strongly Green Council have already been seen in Folkstone & Hythe with the immediate cancellation of a controversial and hugely damaging proposed development on the seafront at Hythe.

Secondly, the Electoral Commission’s recent report on the Tunbridge Wells Ward Boundaries included some changes that reflect the fact that they listened to some of the feedback from earlier consultations – a rare occurrence in public consultations these days.

Our Green Party campaign to keep Kilndown in the same Ward as Goudhurst succeeded – the historical connections between those settlements will be maintained in their new Ward.

Thirdly, at a national level the Green co-leaders Adrian Ramsey and Carla Denya are getting more airtime as they are seen to be offering positive solutions to some of the problems such as climate change, the NHS and housing that a tired

government distracted by infighting is not addressing.

To cap it all, along comes Nigel Farage, admitting in his own words that, “Brexit has failed”!

We take no comfort in the fact that far

from providing an extra £350million a week for the NHS, recent figures show that Brexit has actually COST the UK about that amount of money per week from lost exports and lower Government income from the fewer goods we have been producing.

But we have always wanted to stay in close contact with our European neighbours, and it was satisfying to see a recent opinion poll in the Observer that found that 63% of the British people believe Brexit has created new problems, compared to only a third of that number thinking it’s been a success.

So why does Labour keep trying to convince the public it can make the Conservatives’ Brexit work?

As we move towards the next General Election, it’s beginning to look like the Greens have captured the public mood across the country rather than the official opposition. That’s a reason to be hopeful, as well as cheerful!

Geoff Mason is Chair of Tunbridge Wells Green Party and is a councillor on Goudhurst Parish Council

‘Across Kent, Greens won an impressive 24 seats, bringing the number of Green councillors in Kent to 52’

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or you can write to the Editor, Times of Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG

Bus gate has improved Mount Pleasant

Sam Goodenough claims (Times, June 7) that the new Mount Pleasant traffic scheme is “the elephant stomping about in the room” and that these arrangements are “getting up the noses of most of us.”

He suggests local Lib Dem councillor Ben Chapelard (presumably in common with the majority of our councillors) “thinks if he ignores it, we’ll give up moaning and accept it”.

I’d like to ask Mr Goodenough: who is this “most of us”, and who is the “we” for whom he presumes to speak?

There is a well-discussed and researched psychological phenomenon that we tend overestimate the number of people who think like us. My own view is that the new arrangements are a huge improvement to the look, feel and usability of the road beyond the top of Mount Pleasant. Most of the moaning I’ve heard seems to have come from people who have not read or who have ignored the signs and been fined, or who think it is impossible to shop unless you can park outside.

Of course, I am subject to this same bias, but I feel confident that those who like it just keep quiet and enjoy it, while those who have fallen foul of the regulations or who cannot park and walk, as your correspondent says, won’t give up moaning.

Slow-moving

protest

I understand Cllr Lidstone organised a bike protest last Friday on the A26 (St John’s Road) in which lots of bikes were to group together to pedal very slowly and block the road in order to interfere with the flow of traffic – truck deliveries and people going home or going to work. These are very similar to the tactics used by Just Stop Oil. Maybe he just had to swap T-shirts. It was to highlight his misguided theory that having better bike lanes on the A26 will make us all much better people and probably save the planet as well.

I assume this type of action – deliberately causing traffic to slow – is illegal. Just Stop Oil people get arrested for this. Maybe we should follow the councillor’s example and also break the law and get all vehicle drivers using the A26 to stop paying their rates.

Richard Bell

Tunbridge Wells

Editor: For the sake of factual correctness, please see page 1. The protest was organised

The scheme is there, and it is working. The council has plenty to be getting on with – managing finances, recycling and waste management, parking and roads, planning and building control, local business support, housing, benefit and cost of living support, etc. – without having to be deflected by a noisy minority moaning about a good and successful scheme. Let it go, Sam.

Martin Skinner Tunbridge Wells

by Paul Mason of Tunbridge Wells Bicycle Users Group (TWBUG).

Thursday right of way

What was, until a couple of years ago, a joyful, all-inclusive social gathering on The Pantiles on Thursday evenings throughout the summer, has now been reduced to a segregated event for the well-heeled, lacking the former sense of harmony and community.

Now the barricades are up, only to be entered on payment of a £5 fee, whether you have also booked a table at one of the few – dare I say – ‘pricey’ restaurants close to the Bandstand.

Everyone else is kept on the other side of the barricades, some distance from the musicians performing on the Bandstand stage, somewhat reminiscent of the status of third-class passengers on the Titanic.

As far as I am aware, it is the case that the public have exercised a right of way over the length of The Pantiles since their construction. It follows, therefore, that the public cannot be prevented from walking

through the barricades, notwithstanding anything the security guards at the entry points would have you believe.

I have over many decades walked along The Pantiles without let or hindrance and continue to exercise my right of way on Thursday evenings just as at any other time of the week.

I encourage others to do likewise.

Gray Harrild Tunbridge Wells

Flats need food waste bins

Food waste is currently not collected in food waste bins from apartments in Tunbridge Wells. Yet the Council’s website only says: “The food waste collection service will be rolled out at a later date to flats and properties which have communal collections.”

According to the TWBC Annual Report, quoting a 2017 survey, apartments/ maisonettes account for 21.4% of properties in the town. This means large quantities of food waste end up in landfill where it causes huge environmental damage. Food waste bins and regular collections will encourage households living in apartments to recycle food waste. This is an important way to combat the climate emergency, as it helps to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and methane and generates renewable energy and ecofriendly fertiliser for farms.

We urge the Council to follow the example of other councils in the UK and make food waste collection from apartments a priority. We urgently request the Council to give a definitive date on which it intends

PEPPY SAYS...

to roll out a well-considered food waste collection plan.

Such a plan to include suitable food waste bins and collection services to all apartments, appropriate communication, and the necessary support to enable and encourage food waste collection.

Please add your name to our petition to TWBC to provide a definitive date and plan to provide all apartments in Tunbridge Wells with food waste bins: change.org/ FoodWasteBins4Apartments.

Christina Randell

TWu3a Sustainable Living Group

Look after your hearing

Summer is here, which means more opportunities to be outside and to listen to live music.

In all the fun, we sometimes forget to look after our hearing health. A live concert or festival can often reach levels of 110 decibels. Repeated or long exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or above can cause hearing loss, so it is important to take care of your ears.

There are some easy ways to keep your hearing protected: Carry earplugs and use them. The reusable kind designed for clubbers and musicians don’t muffle sound, just make it a bit quieter. Stay away from the speakers – the closer you are, the greater the risk of hearing damage. Take regular breaks from the loudest areas to give your ears a rest.

Join over 250,000 people and take the free online hearing check by visiting rnid.org.uk

Crystal Rolfe Associate Director for Health at RNID

Number 1 for fun!

BEWL WATER AQUA PARK

SCANHere toBook

REVIEWS

“Really good fun. An hour flew by and my kids aged 12 and 15 loved it. Proper work out as well! Thought staff and organisation was excellent. Will definitely go back.”

SCANHere toBook

“Really brilliant day out, loads of facilities and everything we needed was provided.”

“A place for fun and joy. Had a blast in the summer with the kids and would definitely recommend.”

bewlwater.co.uk

BEWL WATER, BEWLBRIDGE LANE, LAMBERHURST, KENT TN3

‘Nurturing a child from the womb is the best start you can give them in life…’

FOR the past seven years, The Parent-Infant Foundation has coordinated Infant Mental Health Awareness Week, during which time it has grown into a global phenomenon. The theme of this year’s event, which runs until June 18, is Bonding Before Birth, highlighting the importance of how what happens during pregnancy can impact a baby’s future mental health and wellbeing.

Relationships

With the aim of helping parents in their preparation for parenthood, it’s designed “to help build strong relationships between parents and their new baby based on love, compassion and affection”. Some research has also shown that the developing foetus is able to respond to music, particularly lullabies. The unborn child can move to the rhythm of its mother’s voice and seems to develop more quickly outside the womb when exposed to classical music for ten minutes a day, as it opens up the neural pathways of the baby. I believe that the mother’s experience while pregnant has the potential to

influence the unborn child.

I think that the relationship between a mother and her partner can have a profound impact. A loving and mutuallyrespectful relationship is clearly preferable to a stormy, unsettled one and is likely to predetermine a child’s future emotional wellbeing. The mood of the expectant mother potentially influences a baby’s development as much as her choice of foods and nutritional supplements, as well as avoiding smoking, drugs, alcohol and chemical substances in personal products and the environment.

When a baby reaches maturation and prepares to leave the relative security and comfort of the womb, its passage to the outside world needs to be as serene and stress-free as possible.

I believe that being born is potentially the

most stressful event of a human being’s life. Not only does the foetus endure physical and emotional trauma in coming down the birth canal in preparation for its first breath, but it also assimilates the emotional state of its mother at the time of birth. I think that any uncertainty and misgivings from the mother can influence the birth. The best start for a baby is for the mother to communicate that the world is a safe and welcoming place.

Bonding and attachment are both terms to describe the feelings between a parent or caregiver and their child, but they are actually quite different ways of connecting with an infant. Bonding is about what the

parent is experiencing, such as the overwhelming feeling of love and devotion that they feel towards their baby. By contrast, attachment, as described by psychologist John Bowlby, is a reciprocal process – an emotional connection which develops between parent and child that helps the infant feel understood and secure. This secure attachment starts in the womb where the baby gets used to the sound of its mother’s heartbeat and voice.

In my opinion, the newborn infant needs this attachment to be continued and reinforced from birth. During this crucial exploratory stage, when a baby needs ‘an external womb’ environment, it begins to mirror the mother’s love, internalise it and build a sense of self.

June 12-18 is Infant Mental Health Awareness Week, so former teacher and local author Leonora Langley, who has written ‘Let the Souls of Our Children Sing’, discusses the importance of nurturing emotional wellbeing in our children

‘I believe that the best start for a baby is for the mother to communicate that the world is a safe and welcoming place’

Photo: Shutterstock

Life&Times

Comedy on the edge

The Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival is back… P29

Poetry in motion

Three years ago, just as Covid social distancing guidelines were easing, the Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival was launched. It proved to be such a great success that it has now become a firm fixture of the town’s social calendar, taking place over a period of approximately three weeks in June.

Inviting poets of all kinds to perform live in a variety of venues, this year’s event, which kicked off on June 1 and runs until June 18, promises to be as interesting and diverse as previous years, with something for everyone to enjoy.

From Vocal & Live open mic sessions at The Forum and The George, to inspiring workshops at venues including The Grey Lady, Trinity Theatre and Waterstones, there’s so much to get involved with.

“The Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival originated as a one-off gathering of local poets brought together by Sarah Miles of Paper Swans Press,” explains the event’s co-organiser Peppy Scott.

“The baton was then handed to the Tunbridge Wells-based Kent & Sussex Poetry Society, who became sponsors of the festival when a small group of members volunteered to organise it. If you have chanted nursery rhymes, recited a prayer or sung some favourite lyrics in the shower, then you have read some poetry,” she continues.

“Poetry is rooted in our lives and this is what we celebrate as the Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival.”

This year’s festival includes performances by the likes of published poet Raine Geoghegan, who will host an evening of poetry celebrating nature and the countryside, both present and past at Waterstones on June 16. She will be

The annual Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival is now on. This year’s event, which has received funding from RTW Together, is bigger and better than ever with a programme for all ages to enjoy. Eileen Leahy speaks to one of the festival’s co-founders – and Times of Tunbridge Wells cartoonist – Peppy Scott about what’s going on where until June 18…

‘Poetry is rooted in our lives and this is what we celebrate as the Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival’

THE SPOKEN WORD: Enjoy Vocal and Live at Trinity Theatre

joined by local poet Siân Thomas, who is also very keen on celebrating the natural beauty that surrounds us all.

Rounding off the festival is a free, all-ages afternoon of relaxed creative activity and entertainment at The Forum

cartoonist. “He is so incredible to see live.”

In addition to all this, there will be numerous workshops on offer over the next few days in order to inspire everyone from novices to established poets.

“At the heart of the festival is the opportunity for participation via a series of free Vocal & Live events with regular open mic hosts from the thriving local spoken word scene,” says Peppy.

line-up this year.”

The festival’s slogan is ‘Poetry for All, Big or Small’ and Peppy says she and her co-organisers are motivated by “the pleasure of sharing poetry of all genres with people of all ages, who may or may not already know they like poetry.

“To be able to invite poets of national standing into the town is a thrill, but we are equally excited by the platform we offer to undiscovered local talent. Members of the committee work entirely voluntarily and each one is also a poet.”

Peppy reveals that the now annual Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival is something aimed at everyone in the local community.

“Poetry can be moving or calming, thought-provoking and intriguing,

challenging or soothing, and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny. While the more cerebral readings will appeal to confirmed lovers of poetry, much of the programme is designed to appeal to a general audience.

“Whether someone is an absolute beginner who has never attempted to write a poem before, or an established poet who is regularly published, the festival offers opportunities to stretch one’s skills, regardless of experience. We also have a policy of affordable pricing and there are many free events on the programme. Accessibility is central to our ethos.” Full details about the festival can be found at: twpoetryfestival.com, on Twitter @TWPoetryFest, on Facebook @TunbridgeWellsPoetryFestival and on Instagram @twpoetryfestival

“Taking place in some of the town’s most popular cafés and pubs, all are invited to share their words or just to enjoy the diverse range of speakers and entertainers.

WHAT TO SEE WHERE

VOCAL AND LIVE: No tickets (or jacket!) required. Vocal and Live are FREE

VOCAL AND LIVE AT TRINITY THEATRE: An afternoon of readings from groups and

‘Whether someone is an absolute beginner or an established poet, the festival offers opportunities to stretch one’s skills, regardless of experience’

DAN CULMER

It may be time to take a break and focus on yourself.

Join Chrissie's new Yoga class for beginners in Tunbridge Wells and let her guide you towards a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

As an experienced and fully qualified teacher, Chrissie will introduce you to a dynamic form of Yoga designed to increase flexibility, core strength and confidence.

Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience with Yoga, this class is tailored to meet your individual needs. Yoga is an excellent way to release stress, clear your mind and improve your physical well-being.

With Chrissie's guidance, you'll be able to experience all the benefits Yoga offers. You'll leave each session feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to take on whatever challenges come your way.

Don't let tiredness or stress hold you back any longer. Join Chrissie's class today and start your journey towards a healthier, happier you. Contact us now to book your place and take the first step towards a better future!

Book via: Yoga-Circle.co.uk

New classes now available

10am Thurs - Introduction

10am Friday - All Abilities

Location: St Barnabas Hall, Stanley Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2RH

Book via: Yoga-Circle.co.uk

Hurry, only 20 more slots available!

Dynamic lessons in Yoga for all abilities

Are you feeling drained, exhausted or overwhelmed by the stress of daily life?

Celebrate Father’s Day with winning wines and spirits

Check out my top picks for June 18 – it’s a special day when we should spoil the old man. Open a few bottles over a long lunch or give them as a gift. Who says tipple-loving superstar dads are hard to shop for? Enjoy!

1. 2019 Berry Bros. & Rudd Chianti Classico by Badia a Coltibuono, Tuscany, Italy (£17.95, Berry Bros & Rudd, bbr.com)

This terrific, plummy, red-fruited, velvety, briary, organic-certified DOCG Chianti Classico, is punching well above its weight, It’s made by Badia a Coltibuono, one of Chianti Classico’s stars, for Berry Bros & Rudd. Thoroughly whets the appetite with just a single sniff and then a gulp of the tangy Sangiovese-grape-based liquid. Dad could enjoy it with rib-eye steak, rare sirloin, braised rabbit, risotto primavera, aubergine parmigiana or ragù alla bolognese. It’s also a whizz with dry, crumbly, well-aged Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Works a treat.

2. Co-op Irresistible Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 Years Old, Scotland (£28, Co-op, coop.co.uk)

Delicious, well-priced, rich oloroso sherry cask-finished 12-year-old single malt Scotch whisky; it’s a terrific mellow and warming marzipan, chocolate, citrus, spice and

almond-scented cuddle that won’t break the bank. Spirits prices are soaring so grab this supermarket bargain whilst it’s still under £30.

3. Camel Valley Pinot Noir Rosé Brut 2019, Cornwall, England (£29, The Wine Society, thewinesociety.com)

Father’s Day is here – and English Wine Week is just around the corner – so it’s the perfect time to indulge in some homegrown sparkling wine to celebrate the occasion. Step forward this unfailingly elegant sparkling Pinot Noir vintage rosé from Cornwall. Such a joy – so stylish and soothingly redolent of red fruits and rose hips. I’d chill it for prawns and charcuterie.

4. 2013 Taylor’s Quinta de Vargellas Vintage Port, Douro Valley, Portugal (£31.99, mix 6, Majestic, majestic.co.uk)

Produced from grapes grown in a single year on a single superb north-facing estate in the wild and hilly eastern reaches of the Douro valley that is known for the purity and refinement of its wines, this is a serious, rich, chewy, finely-structured and elegant single-Quinta (i.e., made in a ‘non-declared’ year from a single property), earlier-maturing vintage port with sweet spice and mature, succulent, dark fruit. Decant it to serve with Stilton, hunks of dark chocolate, chocolate desserts and walnuts. Outstanding value for money and a real treat.

5.

Dad deserves to be spoilt by top fizz this Father’s Day. Here’s a beautiful, rich and yeasty classic ‘Grande Marque’ nonvintage champagne, combining lemon zest, orchard and white peach notes with subtle touches of brioche and honey. It’s the perfect aperitif and just the ticket for canapés, fish and shellfish. Bonne Fête des Pères!

6. Eminente Reserva 7-Year-Old Rum, Cuba (£47.25, The Whisky Exchange, thewhiskyexchange.com)

This decadent, aged Cuba rum is a must-have for any rum aficionado. Created by César Martí, the island’s youngest ‘Maestro Ronero’ (master rum-maker), and aged for at least 7 years in white oak ex-whisky casks, this topnotch rum bursts with flavours like cigar box, chocolate, praline, toasted almonds, dulce de leche, ground coffee, prunes and vanilla. It’s a great introduction to sipping rum and sure to put Dad in good spirits. One for thoughtful sipping. This superb rum would also make a deluxe rumbased Old Fashioned. Made with 100% Cuban sugar cane.

Taittinger Brut Réserve NV Champagne, France (£36.99, Amazon, amazon.co.uk)

Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

Fired up by Father’s Day this coming Sunday, June 18, Times Drinks Editor James Viner says make June all about Dad (and English wine of course, since it’s English Wine Week from 17-25 June)! If he enjoys fine wine and spirits, your gift shopping for Dad just got more straightforward…

Times Chief Reporter Victoria Roberts picks three books for this week

On this week’s bookshelf, a powerful study of the treatment of women in South Korea, Neil Blackmore’s tale of secret desire in Regency-era London, and acclaimed Chilean author Isabel Allende tackles the theme of immigration in ‘The Wind Knows My Name’…

Another Person by Kang Hwagil, translated by Clare Richards

Published in paperback by Pushkin Press, priced £14.99 (ebook £9.99)

‘Another Person’ is a confrontational and timely book about consent, toxic masculinity, sexual assault and the treatment of women in South Korea, by one of the country’s most prominent feminist writers. It starts with a young woman, Jina, locking herself away in her apartment, after she revealed to the world she was assaulted at work – but the internet swiftly turned on her, accusing her of being a liar and trying to ruin a promising young man’s life. The experience makes Jina explore her past at Anjin University, thinking back to what really happened during her time there – particularly to one student, Ha Yuri, who everyone wrote off as promiscuous and mysteriously died. It’s told from different viewpoints, helping the reader build a full – and shocking – picture of what it’s like to be a woman in South Korea; it’s a powerful look at sexism and assault on university campuses and beyond.

Review by Prudence Wade

Radical Love by Neil Blackmore

in hardback by Hutchinson Heinemann, priced £16.99 (ebook £5.99)

John Church is a preacher on a mission to spread a message of love – but Regency London is not a society which tolerates outsiders. For those who experience ‘unnatural’ desires, the city is a place of fear, where love can survive only in the shadows of street corners, in clandestine moments snatched when backs are turned. But Church is a passionate man, and when his desires are sparked by a meeting with intellectual ex-slave Ned, a flame is ignited in him which threatens to consume them both. Blunt, raw and unapologetically sexual, Radical Love is a story of human flaws, the dangers of both honesty and deception, and idealism in the face of cruel reality. With plenty of references to penetrating truths that still resonate two centuries later, it holds a lens up to 19th-century existence, whilst asking uncomfortable questions of our own. It is a story of the search for freedom and acceptance, and it demands an answer: how high a price must be paid for the radical pursuit of love?

Review by Hannah Colby

The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende

Published in hardback by Bloomsbury, priced £18.99 (ebook £13.29)

Legendary Chilean writer Isabel Allende’s latest offering is a fictional look at immigration and refugees. It starts in the 1930s, when six-year-old Samuel – who is Jewish – is separated from his parents after Kristallnacht and sent to England on the Kindertransport. Later, this is mirrored in the present day with the story of Anita Diaz – who has fled violence in El Salvador and made the dangerous trip to the US, only to be separated from her mother. It’s particularly fashionable in fiction right now to have books from multiple perspectives – sometimes it can be powerful, but for The Wind Knows My Name, it makes things feel a bit disjointed. While Allende’s prose is polished and beautiful – as is to be expected of her – the similarity of the two stories is altogether too obvious to be that clever, making the link feel a bit forced.

Review by Prudence Wade

Give Dad the day off…

We’ll

whilst overlooking glorious views of our 36-acre Estate. Savour flavours from around the world with your platter of chargrilled rump steak, locally sourced sausages and Thai coconut chicken served with sharing bowls of our flavour-filled sides.

guidegig June 14 to June 27

Lars Anders Tomter (viola) Gemma Rosefield (cello)

Sally Pryce (harp)

Repertiore includes Ravel, Mozart, Debussy, Beethoven, Françaix.

In his fortnightly guide, Times Music Editor Paul Dunton brings us his gig highlights, including this year’s Black Deer Festival, which returns this weekend to Eridge Park…

BLACK DEER MUSIC FESTIVAL

June 16-18, Eridge Deer Park.

All event information and tickets available at www.blackdeerfestival.com

Friday headliners – Nathaniel

Rateliff & The Night Sweats

Saturday headliners – Bonnie Rait + The Pretenders

Sunday headliners – Richard Hawley + Bear’s Den + Steve Earle

24/06 Boogie Nights presents Hacienda Classics

SQUERRYES WINERY RESTAURANT, WESTERHAM

Dining and live jazz music experience booking advised via 01959 562345 or w ww.squerryes.co.uk

Live music from 7.30pm

23/06 Jennifer Maslin & John Harriman

TRINITY THEATRE, CHURCH ROAD

All event information and tickets available from www.trinitytheatre.net

18/06 Mark Harrison live in concert

23/06 Richard Durrant live in concert

24/06 ‘Looking for me friend’: The songs of Victoria Wood by Paulus

ST EDITH FOLK SESSIONS, The Vestry Hall Cranbrook

All event information and tickets available at www.stedithfolk. co.uk/what-s-on

23/06 Mark Morriss

THE FORUM BASEMENT AT THE SUSSEX ARMS

16/06 The Masqueraders Duo (8.30pm)

17/06 Owen Donavan (8.30pm)

22/06 Andreas Jensen (7pm)

23/06 Charlotte Lubbock Duo (8.30pm)

24/06 Maella & Draper (8.30pm)

CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE, CHIDDINGSTONE

All event information and tickets at www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk/ whats-on/

18/06 Live at The Orangery –Shades of Miles Davis Featuring Paul Higgs (trumpet) & Band

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH, PENSHURST

All event information and tickets available at www.penshurstchoralsociety.co.uk

17/06 Penshurst Choral Society Summer Concert (6.30pm) repertoire includes Mvula, Lauridsen, White Acre and Rachmaninov

THE WATERSIDE BAR & RESTAURANT, HEVER GOLF CLUB

All event information and tickets available at www.heverfestival. co.uk

24/06 Dinner & jazz with Heather Hoyle (saxophone)

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

Event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk

14/06 Reverend & The Makers

Acoustic Show

15/06 The Boo Radleys

16/06 London Afrobeat Collective

17/06 The Skatonics

18/06 TW Poetry festival presents

– Vocal & Live 2pm

18/06TW Poetry festival presents

– Harry Baker 7.30pm

19/06 Phoxjaw

23/06 Transglobal Underground

If you are a venue local to Tunbridge Wells that hosts regular live music or even if it’s a one-off event, concert or festival, contact Paul at least six weeks in advance of your event date with the following details:

• Name and address of venue

• Date and time of event

Event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk

16/06 Ritual King + Gramma

Vedetta

17/06 Snake Eyes + Zap Euphoria + Caledonia 23/06 The Hurt Process

TN1 BAR & KITCHEN, MONSON ROAD

Open all day live music usually from 8pm booking advised Via 01892 513900 or visit www.tn1barkitchen.co.uk

15/06 James McMaster (7pm)

• Name of event and name of act(s)

• Ticket link and/or website (please state if free entry)

• 1 x high resolution (300 dpi) landscape jpeg (performer only, no posters)

• Please state photo credit if required

paul@paulduntonandguests.com

ST PETER & ST PAUL CHURCH, TONBRIDGE

All event information and tickets available at www.tmc.org.uk/ticket/nashensemble/

24/06 Nash Ensemble of London featuring Philippa Davies (flute) Benjamin Nabarro (violin)

THE GEORGE & DRAGON INN, SPELDHURST

Open all day, free entry, music in the garden from 4.30pm

17/06 Harry Whitty & Chelsea Becker

24/06 Gianna Duo

23/06 Pete Lacey, aka Ska n Mash

24/06 Skadust

JAZZ ON THE PANTILES, THE PANTILES BANDSTAND

A reservation is required (entrance £5pp).

Participating restaurants: The Tunbridge Wells Hotel: 01892 530501

The Kirthon: 07592 271151 La Casa Vecchia: 01892 544700

15/06 Liz Fletcher Quartet

22/06 Atlanticus

24/06 Soul Train Party

THE BEDFORD PUB, HIGH STREET

Open all day, free entry music from 8.30pm

16/06 Flux Capacitor

23/06 Electric Rats

THE BOTTLE HOUSE INN, PENSHURST

Open all day, free entry music from 6pm. Booking advised on 01892 870306 or online at www. thebottlehouseinnpenshurst.co.uk

16/06 The Violet Jive Duo

23/06 David Mumford

SANKEYS RESTAURANT, THE OLD FISH MARKET, THE PANTILES

Open from midday onwards, live music from 7pm. Booking advised 01892 511422 or via www.sankeys.co.uk

THE BLACK HORSE PUB, CAMDEN ROAD

Open all day, music events – free entry (unless stated) music from 8pm – live music every Friday night

TYBER’S REGGAE BAR, 9 NEVILL STREET

All event information and tickets available at www.tybersreggaebar. com/events

15/06 Tyber & Pete

16/06 Reggae Boyz feat. Michelle plus DJ

17/06 Jay R

22/06 Just Alex DJ

15/06 David Mumford

22/06 Gianna Duo

EVEN FLOW CAFE, ST JOHN’S ROAD

29/06 Open Mic Night

THE GEORGE & DRAGON, LAMBERHURST

Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm

14/06 Open Mic / Jam session all welcome

21/06 Open Mic / Jam session all welcome

SOAP BOX RACE, DUNORLAN PARK

All event information and tickets available at www.twsoapboxrace. com

24/06 Live music from Local & Live artists

MOON DANCE FESTIVAL

Moon Down, Team Dynamics International, Court Lodge Down Bells Yew Green all event information and tickets available at www.moondance.co.uk/moondance-festival

Live music from The Management, Jack Curtis, The Airstreams, Saltlick, Bombay Monkey and more

THE MASQUERADERS DUO

MARK MORRIS

NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS

CHRISSIE HYNDE OF THE PRETENDERS

There’s more to music than learning to play

Andrew Collins from Brittens Music talks about the role of music in social and emotional learning, from fostering empathy to collaboration and self-expression

Music has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, serving as a powerful means of communication and self-expression. Beyond its aesthetic and entertainment value, music plays a crucial role in social and emotional learning –fostering empathy, collaboration, and self-expression in individuals of all ages.

Social and emotional learning

Music has the ability to evoke a wide range of emotions from joy and excitement to sadness and introspection. This emotional connection to music provides a platform for individuals to explore and understand their own emotions, developing self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

By engaging with different musical genres and styles, individuals can discover new perspectives and experiences, broaden their understanding of the human condition and foster empathy towards others. This development starts from early years right through into adulthood and is a key factor in forming connections with others around us.

Promoting collaboration and teamwork

Playing music in a group setting, such as

a band or an orchestra, requires individuals to work together as a team.

Each musician must listen, respond, and synchronise with others. This nurtures essential skills, such as active listening, communication, and cooperation. Collaborative music-making encourages individuals to value the contributions of others, respect diversity, and work towards

a harmonious outcome which is such a valuable lesson, especially for younger learners.

A medium for self-expression

Many individuals find solace and empowerment in creating and performing music. Whether it’s writing lyrics, playing an instrument, or singing, music allows

individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and personal narratives.

This process of self-expression can be particularly beneficial for young people who may find it challenging to articulate their emotions verbally.

Music offers a non-judgmental space where individuals can find their voice, build confidence, and develop a positive sense of identity.

At Brittens Music, we are proud to play a part in the musical journey of individuals of all ages, whether it’s by helping people choose the right instrument for their needs, or supporting their learning at Brittens Music School. We believe that age is no barrier to nurturing musicality – from toddlers of 18 months upwards participating in our Colourstrings music classes, to children learning an instrument through their school years, through to adults in later years pursuing their passion for learning to play a musical instrument.

It is a joy to see the confidence a student gains as they develop their skill and form bonds with students around them.

If you feel inspired and would like to find out more about the classes available at Brittens Music School, please pop into the Brittens Music showroom on Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells, or visit: brittensmusic.co.uk.

What to do this Father’s Day weekend

WITH Father’s Day taking place this Sunday (June 18), venues across the Tunbridge Wells area are offering a range of exciting activities to say thanks to Dad.

From a classic car show at Bewl Water to delectable dining at The Brasserie, there are plenty of options to make this weekend truly memorable.

Feast

Salomons Estate, a stunning 36-acre country estate in Southborough, invites guests to embrace the start of summer with a mouthwatering alfresco-style feast.

Indulge in a succulent selection of barbecued meats from around the world, including chargrilled rump steak, locallysourced sausages, and Thai coconut chicken thighs. The menu also features generous sides like Cajun fries and Jamaican slaw, as well as tasty desserts like Eton mess stack and millionaire’s cheesecake.

Costing just £24.95 per person, all dads will receive a complimentary pint, while children dine for half price.

Reservations and the full menu can be found at salomons-estate.com.

Advertorial

car rally, presented by Austin Sevens. The day will showcase a stunning collection of pre-1978 automobiles, commercials and motorbikes, providing the perfect treat for car-enthusiast dads.

Explore the auto jumble for hidden treasures and spare parts, before taking a leisurely family stroll around the 800-acre reservoir.

The dog-friendly Waterfront Café and Ice Cream Parlour offer a range of tasty treats and hearty lunch items, making it an ideal location for the whole family to celebrate.

Admission to the rally is free, with a small parking charge of £7 granting all-day access to Bewl Water and its exciting activities.

The Brasserie, located near The Pantiles is also putting on a Father’s Day feast, where dads dining at the restaurant will receive a choice of a free pint, a bottle of beer, or a glass of wine with their meal.

The menu boasts a variety of options, including juicy burgers, garlic and chilli chicken skewers, courgette and butternut squash tagliatelle, and a tempting fish finger sandwich. End the meal on a sweet note with indulgent desserts such as passion fruit sponge pudding and apple tarte tatin. Reservations can be made by visiting brasserie-owp.co.uk.

For those seeking a nostalgic experience, Bewl Water, southeast England’s largest reservoir, is hosting a pre-war and classic

CLASSICS AT BEWL WATER

BURGERS AT THE BRASSERIE

ANDREW COLLINS

Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival 2023

The Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival 2023, which runs until July 16, returns this summer for its third year. Inspired by the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe, the town will see a buzzing programme of events taking place day and night for two weeks across multiple venues in the area, with local support from The Hive, RTW Together, TN Card and the Langton Green Village Society.

The TW Fringe Festival is the brainchild of Debbie King, Founder of the Talentz Musical Theatre Company, along with fellow organisers Nell Price of Arty Farty, Grace Simpson of Goupie and local performance artist, Aimee Cooper.

At their launch at the Grosvenor & Hilbert Park Hub last month, Debbie commented: “TW Fringe is an exciting collection of events featuring over 200 acts made up of hundreds of local and national artists.

“It offers a host of performances across the arts, performing in over 46 venues in Tunbridge Wells. We kick off with a fantastic opening ceremony on Saturday July 1.

Entertainment

From comedy to dance, and spoken word to children’s entertainment and live music to workshops, there is something for everybody. There’s even a silent disco making its way around the town!

TW Fringe is also supporting two very

special local charities: Taylor Made Dreams, which grants bucket list wishes and offers holistic support to children with life-limiting illnesses in Kent and Sussex; and Fegans, which provides counselling to children and support to parents.

Some of the events this year are free to attend, some request a donation and others are ticketed – all the details are available on the Fringe Festival website.

A whole range of venues from traditional theatres to pubs, hotels, restaurants, cafés and bars, in addition to more quirky settings and outdoor locations will take part under the banner of TWFringe.

HOUSE CALLS THIS JUNE IN YOUR AREA

Nell Price added: “The idea is that everyone will benefit from the Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival – local businesses will gain from increased footfall in the area.

“We have some brilliant award-winning acts who are touring the world fringe circuit and we can’t wait to bring them to your doorstep! Along with the local artists who can express their talents within the

community, audiences will once again get to enjoy a complete range of performances, rediscover local venues and maybe explore somewhere new.”

For more information and to book tickets, please visit: twfringe.com and follow @twfringefestival on Instagram or @TWFringe on Facebook.

Motoring News

Seven-seater ID.Buzz ◆

First Lexus crossover ◆ Jaguar Land Rover rebrand ◆

Lexus enters crossover market with new LBX

LEXUS has launched into the competitive crossover segment with its new LBX. Arriving as the smallest Lexus in the range, the LBX – which stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover – will only be available with hybrid powertrains. Designed ‘with a focus on European customers’ the LBX uses the same TNGA-B platform which underpins the Toyota Yaris Cross.

Refinement

Volkswagen’s ID.Buzz gets practical with new seven-seat people carrier

VOLKSWAGEN has unveiled a new sevenseater version of its electric ID.Buzz.

The new MPV has been stretched by 250mm over the standard model, allowing Volkswagen to offer it in three different interior seating arrangements with five-, six- and seven-seat layouts all available.

Space

Plus, because of the added length, the long-wheelbase ID.Buzz is able to offer more luggage space than the ‘standard’ version with 1,340 litres when in five-seat form, representing an increase of 219 litres from the standard-wheelbase version.

Dubbed the “samba bus for the modern age” – in reference to the iconic ‘VW Bus’ that still holds a cult following to this day – the long-wheelbase ID.Buzz has a similarly eye-catching exterior design to the regular van, while a new panoramic sunroof with ‘smart glass’ becomes the

largest glass roof ever built by Volkswagen. It can be changed from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.

The ID.Buzz LWB also gets an illuminated Volkswagen logo on the front, though it isn’t clear whether this will be coming to UK cars.

Volkswagen says that the new Buzz will come with a more powerful motor developing 282bhp, coupled to a larger 85kWh battery. Total range of the longwheelbase van hasn’t been announced as yet, though the added power does result in a 0-60mph time of 7.7 seconds –considerably quicker than the 10.2 seconds that you get with the regular version.

A high-performance GTX version will also be entering the fray, which will bring a 0-60mph time of 6.2 seconds.

Volkswagen hasn’t released any further details about this new model at present, with further information expected over the coming months.

It’s powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine hooked up to a ‘regular’ hybrid system, delivering 134bhp and 185Nm of torque when combined.

The LBX will also be available with all-wheel-drive as an option, brought through the fitment of an additional electric motor on the rear axle.

Lexus has also aimed to bring good levels of refinement through noise-insulating and absorbing sheets fitted to a number of areas in the car.

Though the range of specifications has yet

to be announced for the LBX, Lexus has stated that it’ll be offered in different “refined, dynamic or sporty themes” while UK pricing will also be announced shortly.

The exterior design of the LBX follows the usual Lexus guidelines, with a sleek overall look brought on through a frameless grille and L-shape headlights.

Wheels in either 17- or 18-inch sizes will be available, too, while around the back there’s an L-shaped light bar.

Inside, there’s a clean and stripped-back design with both full leather and veganfriendly upholstery available. A 12.3-inch full digital instrument display makes an appearance in a Lexus vehicle for the first time, while in the middle there’s a 9.8-inch central infotainment setup.

The LBX also comes with 332 litres of boot space on front-wheel-drive models, though it’s likely that all-wheel-drive versions will see this reduced slightly.

The LBX will go into production later on in 2023, with first deliveries expected from March 2024. UK Customers can place reservations from July this year, too.

Jaguar Land Rover unveils new logo as part of rebrand

JAGUAR Land Rover has revealed its new logo as it moves to become known simply as ‘JLR’.

The new branding, which is part of a process that the company believes will “remove ambiguity” is part of a move to a ‘House of Brands’ organisation, with Range Rover, Defender, Discovery and Jaguar all acting as separate brands under the same umbrella.

Brand

Despite the move, ‘Land Rover’ will continue on as a heritage brand, with the famous nameplate remaining on vehicles, websites, social media and retail sites.

Patrick McGillycuddy, interim UK Managing Director, told Car Dealer: “Land Rover, rather than being the overarching master brand, becomes the underpinning – it’s the supporting capability of our

Range Rover, Defender, and Discovery brands.

“So when customers see the Land Rover oval it is a reminder – it’s a promise of the authentic capability that is inherent in each of those three brands.

“It will be on our vehicles. It’ll be on our premises. We absolutely see Land Rover as the underpinning trust mark of those three brands.”

GREG CLARK MP ADVICE SURGERIES

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Cars will now be created under the Range Rover, Defender, Discovery and Jaguar pillars, each connected via the overall JLR firm. Jaguar will shift to become a fullyelectric brand, too.

Adrian Mardell, JLR CEO, said: “Today is an exciting day as we unveIl a new identity for our company as part of our House of Brands approach. I’m confident this perfectly illustrates JLR’s ambition.”

I am holding regular advice surgeries – face-to-face, online or by telephone. To make an appointment, please call:

I am holding regular advice surgeries – by zoom or telephone. To make an appointment, please call: 01892 519854 or email: greg.clark.mp

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