Times of Tunbridge Wells 17th Jan 2024

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Wednesday January 17 | 2024

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Trinity Theatre receives £19k funding

By Ben Cornwell LAST week, West Kent Freemasons announced it has provided a £19,000 grant to Trinity Theatre to support its Speech Bubbles programme.

Speech Bubbles is a national primary school drama intervention scheme that supports children in Years 1 and 2 with communication skills, confidence, and wellbeing.

The drama-based intervention has been running nationally since 2008 and Trinity Theatre has been providing the initiative in Kent since 2017. They are delivering the programme across 16 Kent schools this year, meaning it benefits around 320 children across the county.

Mark Estaugh, Provincial Grand Master of the West Kent Freemasons told the Times: “Over the past two years, the Tunbridge Wells Masonic Centre (TWMC) has served as a rehearsal space for Trinity Theatre and graciously opened our doors to provide a venue for summer school programs.

“Recognising the financial challenges

faced by Trinity Theatre, we have submitted a proposal to the Masonic Charity Foundation (MCF), seeking a £19,000 grant.

“This initiative aligns with our unwavering commitment to sustaining the crucial work of youth theatre, particularly the Speech Bubbles program. The collaborative support from TWMC and West Kent Freemasons underscores the strength of our community partnerships.”

Delighted As previously reported in the Times, the community arts centre was on the brink of closing at the start of 2023, with the theatre needing to raise £25,000 by the close of January and a further £100,000 by the end of February. It managed to bounce back following a successful crowdfunding campaign.

Mr Estaugh added: “Simultaneously, Trinity’s dedication extends to supporting Speech Bubbles in Kent, a vital intervention for Key Stage 1 school

children grappling with language challenges. The MCF grant will ensure the continued implementation of this initiative in Kent, with anticipated positive outcomes in both learning and wellbeing.”

Speech Bubbles sessions are a different kind of experience to a clinical intervention. Practitioners work to create a low-pressure space which reduces anxiety, makes the children feel safe, and is also fun.

Trinity’s practitioners use a thoroughly proven structure and their expert knowledge of whole-body communication to promote children’s confidence and wellbeing.

Trinity Theatre Creative Engagement Director, Jason Lower commented: “We are thrilled that the Freemasons have chosen to support Trinity Theatre and its Speech Bubbles programme.

“Trinity is delighted to be able to run it in schools again this year and give children with speech, language and communication needs an opportunity to improve in these areas.”

INSIDE: New food and drink festival coming to Tunbridge Wells – page 3

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Wednesday January 17 | 2024

This week… Local villages affected by constituency changes DESIGN FOR LIFE: Integra Management rebrands as Presence & Co.as it celebrates a period of rapid growth. P6

HARMONIOUS AGREEMENT: Community Interest organisation set up to secure the future of Langton Green Pavilion. P9

MODEL STUDENTS: Two brothers at St Gregory’s Catholic School tell us about their roles on Kent Youth County Council.

P15 TUNING UP: Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra looks ahead to a series of concerts with high profile musicians. P28

CONTACTS EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 NEWS REPORTER GRACE CORCORAN | 01892 240626 newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uk NEWS REPORTER BEN CORNWELL | 07494 453524 newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uk SUB EDITOR SIMON MUGFORD simon.mugford@onemediauk.co.uk DESIGN/PRODUCTION JASON STUBBS jason.stubbs@onemediauk.co.uk ADVERTISING 07557 847841 robin.singer@onemediauk.co.uk facebook.com/timeslocalnews www.timeslocalnews.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TF Salomons Estate, One Warwick Park Hotel and Bewl Events & Waterpark are owned by the Elite Leisure Collection, which also owns One Media, publisher of the Times.

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times Local News we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections.

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By Ben Cornwell

WITH the next General Election expected to be held later in 2024 following Rishi Sunak’s announcement earlier this month, voters from several villages in the Tunbridge Wells area will be affected by the newly revised Kent constituency boundaries.

To ensure each MP represents roughly the same number of voters, the Boundary Commission for England has made changes to the seats in Kent ahead of the next election, the biggest being the addition of a new constituency in the county, called the Weald of Kent. This is to comply with regulations that state each constituency in England must have between 69,724 and 77,062 registered voters, with the exception of the Isle of Wight, which by law must have two (whole) constituencies.

The new seat is composed of 36.4 per cent of Ashford, 35.2 per cent of Maidstone and The Weald, 11.8 per cent of Faversham and Mid Kent, and 2.4 per cent of Folkestone and Hythe.

The villages from the Borough of Tunbridge Wells that will now be part of the Weald of Kent seat are Benenden, Cranbrook, Frittenden and Sissinghurst. These villages were all previously part of the former Maidstone and The Weald seat.

Candidate After the revised boundary changes, the new constituencies in Kent are Ashford; Canterbury; Chatham and Aylesford; Dartford; Dover and Deal; East Thanet; Faversham and Mid Kent; Folkestone and Hythe; Gillingham and Rainham; Gravesham; Herne Bay and Sandwich;

Data shows year-on-year growth of pothole reports

By Archie Lawrence FOLLOWING a report by the AA that shows the number of cars being damaged by potholes has reached a five year high, Kent County Council (KCC) says it ‘remains focused’ on repairing damaged roads.

KCC are responsible for fixing potholes in Tunbridge Wells and across Kent.

Figures show that reported potholes in the county reached 5,510 between October 1 and December 19, 2023. This number has risen year-on-year, with 3,073 reported potholes in the same period of 2022, and 1,959 in 2021.

The figures are reports of potholes, not confirmed potholes, meaning some of these reports may be duplicated if more than one report for the same pothole was received.

Cllr Peter Lidstone (Lib Dem) and Cycling & Walking Champion for Tunbridge Wells Borough told the Times: “Yes, potholes are a big issue for drivers and cyclists alike. I have spoken to people who no longer feel safe to cycle because of the risk of falling down a pothole. The first thing I would do is remind residents to report potholes, as Kent County Council in my experience do repair them fairly quickly.

“There is a wider question about why the backlog is so large, and what the long-term solution is. The volumes of cars on our roads continues to increase, as does their weight.

Alongside funding for pothole repairs I would like to see proper funding for public transport and active travel, which have the power to reduce vehicle journeys, and ultimately save KCC constantly throwing money at more repairs.”

The Times reported on November 22 that KCC had received significant funds from central government to help with repairs. A KCC spokesperson said: “Following a nine year high in the number of defects reported on our roads we welcomed the additional investment. This means that the total investment in road and footway safety critical maintenance, repairs and resurfacing for 2023/24 is expected to be in the order of £50million.

“This funding has allowed us to appoint additional contractors whilst also introducing new and innovative solutions to our operational portfolio including trialling new resurfacing methods and semi-automatic equipment.”

Nationally, research shows that the AA dealt with 631,852 pothole-related incidents in 2023, the highest for five years.

Maidstone and Malling; Rochester and Strood; Sevenoaks; Sittingbourne and Sheppey; Tonbridge; Tunbridge Wells; and Weald of Kent.

With the Tories historically having a firm grip on the county, current Special Adviser to the Home Secretary Katie Lam will be hoping that continues in the next election, after being selected in August 2023 as the prospective Conservative parliamentary candidate for the newly formed Weald of Kent constituency.

But according to the MRP poll by YouGov, it appears that she may have a tougher battle than first expected. The YouGov survey of 14,000 people forecasts that the Conservatives are set to suffer heavy losses, mainly to the Liberal Democrats, in Blue Wall seats in the South of England which they have held for decades.

To find out more, visit electoralcalculus.co. uk/newseatlookup.html

School experience day at Uplands Academy

By Jack Thornton TO help inspire the next generation of teachers, Uplands Academy will be running a School Experience Day next month for those thinking about getting into secondary education teaching. The event will be taking place at the school, located on the Lower High Street in Wadhurst, on Wednesday February 28 from 9.30am-2pm.

Devised by the Department for Education, the School Experience Programme has been developed to enable people considering a career in teaching the chance to gain first-hand experience and is open to anyone over the age of 18 who has a degree or is currently studying towards one.

Uplands Academy Assistant Headteacher, Laura Purser told the Times: “As teachers, we are passionate about our profession and so we are committed to providing these valuable events. Many attendees are local, so it is a chance for us to offer something to the community and for visitors to build a relationship with a school that they might want to work for later.”

If you would like to book your place for this free event, visit schoolexperience.education. gov.uk/candidates/schools/148945

Tunbridge Wells Hospital performing better than the national picture but still below NHS targets

By Daisy Dogger NEW figures released by NHS England show that Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells (MTW) NHS Trust is performing comparatively well to the national average in a number of areas amidst winter pressure, but are not hitting targets.

Statistics show that from January 1, 2024, out of the 939 ambulances arriving at hospitals, 12 per cent of the MTW fleet handover time to A&E staff was 30 minutes or more – the target time is handover within 15 minutes. On average across England, 31 per cent of ambulance handovers took 30 minutes or more.

Pressure A spokesperson for the Southeast Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb) stated, “We work hard with all our hospital colleagues to ensure that the handover of patients takes place in as timely a manner as possible. We remain extremely busy and expect pressure to remain particularly high over the coming weeks and months.”

They added: “It is vital that our ambulance crews are able to handover patients quickly so they are available to respond to the many patients awaiting an ambulance response in the community.”

Recent statistics from December 2023 also reveal that 17 per cent of all the 20,980 arrivals to the Trust in that month had long waits before being seen by a health professional, exceeding the four-hour target time. Nationally, 31 per cent of arrivals across England in December waited for over four hours in A&E. A spokesperson for MTW Trust commented: “Against a backdrop of record-breaking attendances at our Emergency Departments (EDs), we continue to be in the top five trusts in the country for ED performance.

“This has been achieved thanks to the dedication of our incredible staff and the approaches we are continually developing to

meet the increase in demand for our services.

“These include our bed management system, our Same Day Emergency Care Units (SDECs) and the virtual ward service which generates further capacity in our hospitals by caring for people at home.”

Furthermore, in November 2023 30 per cent of the 45,729 on the Tunbridge Wells waiting list had long waits for treatment, but the Trust is performing better than the national average, where 42 per cent of patients were waiting longer than the 18-week standard.

Overall, the Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone area is deemed to be performing above the UK’s average.

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

NEWS IN BRIEF

Aslef announces further train strike dates Train drivers who are members of Aslef union will take strike action again in January and February in a long-running dispute over pay.

Tunbridge Wells commuters will be directly affected on Tuesday January 30, where train drivers at Southeastern will strike.

A series of strikes will take place between Tuesday January 30 and Monday February 5 2024. The drivers will also refuse to work overtime from Monday January 29 until Tuesday February 6.

Immersive escape room returns to Assembly Hall

After a successful run over the Halloween period at the Assembly Hall Theatre (AHT), BAIT, the immersive horror experience returns next month.

BAIT is an immersive, hands-on experience with live actors, flickering lights, blood-soaked floors, and tricky clues to crack. “The range of unique features all come together to make this an adrenaline-pumping adventure like no other,” a AHT spokesperson told the Times.

BAIT will be running sessions for over 16s only, on 10, 11, 15, 16, 17 and 18 February.

Secure your spot in this thrilling experience at: baithorror.co.uk

Local hospice thanks community for help Hospice in the Weald’s staff and supporters, including local businesses, have been busy collecting Christmas trees across Tunbridge Wells as part of the Hospice’s annual Christmas Tree recycling campaign.

Lisa Browning, Relationship Fundraising Manager at the Hospice, said: “We’d like to thank all local residents who signed up for our Christmas Tree Recycling Campaign, as well as the fantastic local businesses, staff and volunteers who collected more than 1,600 trees from people’s homes. Together you raised more than £43,000, which will go directly to supporting those facing terminal illness and their families, while chippings from recycled trees are donated for use in the local community.”

Free business workshop this week at Town Hall A free workshop at the Town Hall, Tunbridge Wells will be taking place tomorrow (Thursday Jan 18).

Award-winning strategic marketing consultant Natalie Sharp, of Sharp Thinking Marketing Ltd, will be guest speaking at the event. She specialises in marketing and sales strategy to unlock growth opportunities.

The free workshop will focus on how to get your business noticed, and will be combined with a networking event afterwards.

The event will run from 1.30pm-4pm and will begin with a 1 hour 30 minute workshop and end with an hour of networking.

For more information and to sign up to this event, visit eventbrite.co.uk/e/networkingworkshop-how-to-get-your-business-noticedin-person-tickets 745708804107?aff=oddtdtcreator

Have your say on TWBC property assets Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s consultation on its Asset Management Plan (AMP) ends January 26, 2024. To have your say, visit talkingpointtunbridgewells.uk. engagementhq.com/asset-managementplan-2024-5

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Successful fireworks display sparks Round Table’s £20,000 giveaway

By Jack Thornton DESPITE being damp on the night, thousands of people braved the elements and attended the 2023 fireworks display at Dunorlan Park on November 4. Following the event’s success, the Tunbridge Wells Round Table are once again launching its annual giveaway, with local charities, organisations and individuals invited to apply for a share of £20,000.

Chairman of Tunbridge Wells Round Table, Ken Fry told the Times: “Thanks to another successful firework display, we are delighted to launch our £20,000 giveaway.

“The cost of living crisis and the impacts of inflation mean that times are tough for all,

‘Over the years the Tunbridge Wells Round Table have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for good causes across the town’ especially local charities and organisations, so we very much hope that our giveaway will provide them with a much needed boost to start the year.”

The closing date for applications is Wednesday January 31, 2024.

Over the years the Tunbridge Wells Round Table have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for good causes across the town.

Previously, donations have been provided to Nourish, Headway, The Pickering Centre, Hospice in the Weald, local scout and guide groups, as well as many other charities and good causes.

Individual donations have also been given, including a tricycle for a disabled child and a home lift for a family in the town. In 2022, the group supported the two Rotary Clubs in town in funding the new gym equipment in

YOUR ROUND: Members of Tunbridge Wells Round Table Dunorlan Park.

Head of the Tunbridge Wells Round Table’s Charity Committee, Erik Dronen added: “Our giveaway is open to all, so we encourage everyone to apply. We like to support individual projects and the purchasing of goods/equipment rather than funding day to day running costs.

“We hope our funding really makes a difference to our town and are delighted that we can help support the fantastic work of the many charities and organisations Tunbridge Wells is fortunate to have.”

Successful recipients will be invited along to a giveaway event in April, typically attended by the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells.

If you are new to the area, looking to give back to your local community or maybe just in need of some new friends, the Round Table are always happy for new members to join their group.

To find out more about joining the group or to apply for funding visit the Tunbridge Wells Round Table website at www.rtwrt.org

Foodies Festival announces first time visit to Dunorlan Park this summer

By Archie Lawrence A NEW food festival is coming to Dunorlan Park this summer featuring top local chefs, Masterchef champions and Great British Bake-Off stars.

Foodies Festival, which is billed as the UK’s biggest touring celebrity food and music festival series, is a welcome addition to Tunbridge Wells following the news that Pub in the Park would not be returning to our town for 2024.

Known as Gastro-Glastonbury, the three-day event runs from July 5-7 and will feature live cooking demonstrations from TV celebrities and chefs drawn from the ranks of MasterChef, Great British Bake Off and Great British Menu.

Sustainable Showcasing the best of Kent and beyond, many of the region’s most-highly acclaimed Michelin and multi-award-winning chefs will also appear.

Foodies Festival will see sustainable champion and award-winning chef Will Devlin, owner of The Small Holding and Birchwood, Thackeray’s Head Chef Patrick Hill, Adam Turley Head Chef and Proprietor of The Old Bank Restaurant in Westerham and Alex Yates of Bowleys.

The top chefs will be joined in the ‘Chefs Theatre’ by MasterChef champs and Bake-Off winners will take over the ‘Cake and Bake Theatre’ whipping up showstoppers and sweet treats.

The award-winning festival will see

Symphonic Ibiza Orchestra headline the July 5 date, with other musical acts set to be announced.

There will be a chance to sample new wines, champagnes and cocktails in The Drinks Theatre, and there will be delicious street food from around the world on offer and a Kids Cookery Theatre for children to join in on the fun.

Foodies Festival will take place from 5-7 July 2024 at Dunorlan Park. For more information and to book tickets visit foodiesfestival.com/ events/tunbridge-wells/

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Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Ely Court finally gets back to business

By Ben Cornwell TWO new businesses, Spicy ‘N’ Nice and Montagus, opened up in Ely Court, the arcade linking Royal Victoria Place (RVP) shopping centre with Camden Road, on Saturday January 6.

There will also be a new bar opening at Ely Court in the coming weeks called Kirthon Bar, launched by the owner of the Indian restaurant, Kirthon, located on The Pantiles.

They join the family-owned coffee shop and record store, Even Flow and bubble tea shop, The Thirsty Fish, on the site of the former food court.

The accessible location between RVP and the centre of town make the premises in Ely Court an attractive opportunity for any new business venture.

Of the thirteen units available, there are currently eight still left empty, although RVP Centre Manager Nicky Blanchard revealed to the Times that they are ‘working hard’ on filling the arcade and have had a ‘lot of interest’ in the remaining units.

Customers of newly opened Caribbean restaurant Spicy ‘N’ Nice Jerk Smoke House can expect an array of authentic cuisine from the region including jerk chicken, curry goat as well as the Jamaican national dish, ackee and saltfish.

Spicy ‘N’ Nice owner Astley Gordon said that it ‘feels great’ to have opened in Ely Court and they have so far had a ‘fantastic response’ from customers in the town.

SPICY ‘N’ NICE

The accessible location between RVP and the centre of town make the premises in Ely Court an attractive opportunity for any new business venture “Cooking has always been a passion of mine from a very young age in the Caribbean and I have continued that up until the present time.

Since 2014, I was sort of semi-retired from the IT industry and so I have been practising my cooking skills and I decided to go back out in the working field and thought let me try something different. Now I am a proud owner of a restaurant.”

He added: “Most of the customers that have come in so far have had previous experience with the cuisine and have been very knowledgeable on the food we offer.

“Many of them often go to the Caribbean, particularly Jamaica, so I have been really impressed with the knowledge of the cuisine from those in the local community.”

Montagus is a rather unique offering with a

SAMMY FORWAY: Owner of Montagus

chameleon like appearance.

During the day the business will serve artisan coffees and grilled sandwiches before transforming in the evening into a wine bar with a selection of small plates and barbecue style food.

These are not the only changes happening at the business as Montagus owner Sammy Forway told the Times that he will be rebranding the relatively new store this week to Stone and Coal.

Mr Forway, who has worked in the arts and events industry for almost twenty years, previously ran a pop up barbecue kitchen in Essex under the same name and therefore plans to continue the pre-established brand in his unit at Ely Court.

He explained that he ‘fell in love’ with the town when he moved to the area eight years ago after the birth of his son and has wanted to start a business in Tunbridge Wells for some time.

He added: “I have been looking at these spaces for quite a while. I have seen them empty and felt that they needed new life brought into them.

“I want to help them [RVP] get these areas back to where they were and get a good little community going. This could be a really nice part of town; it’s definitely got a lot of potential.”

Traffic ban debated at Council meeting the restrictions. Option a, was to do nothing (no alterations to the layout in response to the petition).

Councillors voted to approve Option B.

By Archie Lawrence AN E-PETITION received by Kent County Council (KCC) regarding the Public Realm 2 restriction in the centre of Tunbridge Wells was discussed by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) on Monday January 15 at the Joint Transportation Board meeting.

Following the petition, which received 754 electronic signatures and 331 signatures on a paper petition, KCC and TWBC Officers laid out their recommendations to the Joint Transportation Board.

The petition, submitted by local resident Sally Atkinson to KCC, aimed to remove signage associated with the scheme and allow all traffic to flow freely along Mount Pleasant and to waive fines imposed to date.

She also outlined eight key areas including volume of traffic, buses and taxis preventing improved pedestrian outcomes, nearby residents forced to take longer routes and inadequate

Confusion

signage. The recommendation proposed by Officers, ‘Option B’, was to retain the Public Realm 2 scheme but incorporate some amendments to help raise further awareness of

The report also recommended that waiving fines imposed to date is not considered an option as ‘the restriction is legally enforceable and Penalty Charges have been lawfully issued, which is supported by the Traffic Penalty Tribunal in their decisions reached in rejecting appeals that they have considered’. They added: “No grounds have been established to justify refunding the Penalty Charges that have been paid by drivers who have contravened the Public Realm (PR2) bus gate/lane restriction.”

The Times has reported extensively on the issues surrounding Public Realm 2. Confusion among drivers around signage caused £210,000 worth of fines in 25 days between March 20-April

13, 2023, with three thousand Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) issued.

The Times also uncovered via a Freedom of Information request that just 34 per cent of penalties issued by TWBC were to vehicles registered in the Borough, with the majority of PCNs issued to out of town visitors (June, 2023).

The Officers recommendation of Option B promises to raise more awareness of the restrictions by adding red surfacing to each gateway feature, more traffic enforcement signs to warn of the restriction, adding two “SLOW” text markings approaching the granite raised table on Monson Road and adding an additional enforcement camera sign with a left turn arrow on Calverley Road.

KCC has not allocated any funding for further alterations to the existing arrangements.

Instead, all costs incurred will need to be funded

by TWBC. The report estimates that costs would be around £15,000, which will be funded from the Public Realm 2 enforcement income.

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Integra Property Management rebrands as Newly-qualified solicitor confirms Presence & Co. and celebrates ‘rapid growth’ career at CooperBurnett INTEGRA Property Management, a distinguished player in the property management sector, has announced its transformative rebranding as Presence & Co. This strategic evolution, launched on Monday (January 15) comes with a vision for further expansion and innovation.

Since the business’ formation in 2005, it has grown and diversified to provide a comprehensive range of services to its portfolio.

Presence & Co. (P&Co.) offers a full 360-property management service across the UK, along with individual contracted projects.

The services provided by Presence & Co. include estate management services, facilities management, health, safety and environmental services, construction and maintenance management and property accounting services, as well as sales and lettings.

By Elena Percy

Professional Presence & Co. offers management for both residential and commercial properties. With a £300 million portfolio including 242 managed units and over 250 clients, it has extensive experience managing and delivering to a high-end professional standard.

The company is prepared for further expansion in the upcoming year, as expressed by the Commercial Director, Harry Spencer: “In the past 19 years, the company has experienced significant growth. This year, we anticipate even more exciting projects that will leave a substantial impact on the property sector.

“The rebranding isn’t merely a change in name, it signifies a renewed commitment to excellence. Reflecting our new professional image isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about embracing a mindset that aligns with the values and goals of Presence & Co.”

Presence & Co. stands as the preferred property management company for high-rolling enterprises like Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited, Clegg Gifford Insurance and Vision Track.

Emphasising client confidence, Presence & Co. ensures its team is fully qualified in RICS, ARLA, PLASMA, with additional credentials detailed on its website. The company is committed to executing all tasks with the utmost professionalism, ensuring minimal disruption to its clients’ services.

To enquire about Presence & Co, visit presence.uk or email info@presence.uk

AFTER embarking on a training contract at the Tunbridge Wells-based law firm, CooperBurnett LLP, 18 months ago, Imogen Fleur has recently qualified as a solicitor. She is now set to continue her career with the firm, working with its Commercial Property team.

Having initially been based within the Corporate and Commercial team, and then gaining experience in the Property Litigation and Family teams, Imogen found her niche IMOGEN FLEUR in Commercial Property.

“I like that the work relates to bricks and mortar which you can see, rather than abstract concepts,” she explained. “I’ve also enjoyed working with business owners and building a rapport with landlords, who return to us regularly for support.”

Imogen completed her Legal Practice Course (LPC)/Master of Laws (LLM) at BPP Cambridge in September 2021, having graduated from the University of Essex with a first-class degree in law.

Imogen is the President of the Kent Junior Lawyers Division (JLD), working to support junior and aspiring lawyers across the county.

“We are absolutely delighted that Imogen’s New Year started with the news that she’s a qualified solicitor,” said Partner Victoria Sampson. “We are thrilled that she’s staying with TeamCB to continue her career with us.

Imogen is brimming with enthusiasm and expertise, and we are sure she’ll make a fantastic solicitor.”

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TN card hosts first business event in Tunbridge Wells

Local News

BUSINESS

NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS…

By Natasha Smith, Senior Associate in the Employment team at CooperBurnett LLP

CARD CARRIERS: TN card founder Jess Gibson (bottom right) with the event speakers

By Grace Corcoran AFTER a successful run at Tonbridge Old Fire Station in 2023, local reward scheme the TN card has moved its Small Business Talks event series to Tunbridge Wells for the year ahead.

The social enterprise, which was established in 2020 by Jess Gibson to support local independents, now counts a diverse range of local businesses from across the TN postcodes in its reward directory, from retail and hospitality to leisure, health and fitness and beauty businesses.

Jess launched Small Business Talks last year as an additional way of supporting its directory businesses, combining an informal networking opportunity with short talks on business management from some of its professional services partners. Topics covered so far have included marketing and branding, social media, mindset and financial planning and tickets are free for both its members and directory business partners.

Hosted by Jess Gibson at TN partner Old Auction House on January 9, the first event in Tunbridge Wells welcomed the

following speakers: Coach and Mentor Debbie Waite from Stronger Inside and Out, Joe De Kwant Stoner from creative and design agency Big Orange Media, Henry Clarke from Clarke Williams insurance brokers, and Andy Myers and Lucinda Lucey from ABMV Chartered Accountants.

Attendees from across Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas included Artspring Gallery, Caracol Camping, Glass by Claudia, GF HR Consulting, Groombridge Farm Shop, Hadlow Home Decor & Gifts, Mille Fleurs, OsteoStrong, Sleepy Wilson, The Star PA, Willis Bloom and Vital Business Solutions.

The TN card was certified as a genuine People and Planet First social enterprise by Social Enterprise World Forum in line with its global standards and ethics in November 2023, and certified by Social Enterprise UK earlier in July 2023, recognising its efforts to put social action before profit.

The spring Small Business Talk is at Old Auction House on April 18 with speakers Bold Biz Coaching (business coaching), Rankfresh (SEO), Jo Tuck Design (Branding) and Amplifi (Sustainability).

For more information visit thetncard.com/events

Pig & Porter announces new Head Brewer

By Archie Lawrence PIG & Porter, an award-winning craft brewery based in Tunbridge Wells, has announced the appointment of Chris Spurdens as its new Head Brewer.

Chris stepped into its Head Brewer-shaped wellies at the start of the year. His sunny and laid-back Cape Town disposition is mixed with a Vintner’s background, spent at Nyetimber in the UK and high-end boutique winery Rust En Vrede in South Africa, before he started turning his hand to beer in 2013.

Experience After perfecting his craft through his own beer company, Apollo and Cape Brewing Company in South Africa, he travelled back to UK shores in 2022 to join the Pig & Porter brewery team.

Founder Robin Wright said: “At Pig & Porter, we are delighted to have Chris on board as our Head Brewer. His experience, combined with his palate, customer knowledge and instinct ensure that every one of our beers is made to the

highest standards, and that at their heart they remain driven by what our customers want.

“It is an exciting time at Pig & Porter, and with Chris at the helm, I feel confident in our ability to expand the business and am looking forward to giving Chris free rein to develop new beers in the very near future.”

The brewery, situated in CHRIS SPURDENS Chapman Way in High Brooms, currently produces a wide range of beers in cask and keg and Chris’ newest brew, the delicious Funky Claude porter, is gaining a huge following and kicks off the next chapter in Pig & Porter’s growth.

Pig & Porter supplies pubs, restaurants, clubs and hotels with their beers but also has a successful online shop which sells direct to consumers.

For more information visit pigandporter.co.uk

Loch Associates Group expands into East Sussex

LOCH Associates Group, headquartered in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, has expanded into East Sussex with the opening of a new Eastbourne office after experiencing continued growth in the region and doubling turnover and headcount in just three years.

The rapid expansion of the business is a direct result of Loch Associates Group being the only business in Kent and Sussex to offer such a range of multiple services under one roof.

Loch Law, the legal division of Loch Associates Group, has appointed Victoria Regan as a Partner to head up the team on the south coast. She brings with her more than 20 years of employment law experience and was previously a Partner at Sussex-based law firm, Rix and Kay, where she was head of

the Employment Department and managed a team of HR consultants.

Pam Loch, Solicitor and Managing Director of Loch Associates Group, said: “Over the years we have been helping organisations to manage and nurture their people and protect their business. The new office really helps Loch Associates Group cement its position in Sussex, where we are witnessing continued growth.”

Regarding Loch Law’s new Partner, Pam said: “Victoria is a leading individual in both employment law and HR. Her expertise and experience will ensure we are providing the best service to our clients as we continue to offer an extensive range of solutions to meet our clients’ needs.”

The New Year is a great time for business owners to review where their organisation is and assess where they want it to be. Employment law changes rapidly and so it is important for employers to keep on top of the latest developments in legislation and decisions made through case law.

We are regularly instructed by employers who ask us to review their contracts and policies and ensure they are up to date, or to draft new documents, where they don’t have anything in place.

There are some important changes coming into effect in early 2024 relating to the rights around flexible working and, as a result, we are assisting employers with ensuring their flexible working policies are amended to reflect these. It is also key from a practical perspective for organisations to prepare for a potential increase in such requests, given that employees will be able to make more than one request in a 12 month period.

We are also regularly instructed by employees who might have reconsidered their job or career aspirations over the Christmas break and want to negotiate their exit from a company or understand any post termination restrictions they are contractually bound by. Or they may wish to have new contracts reviewed to ensure they understand what they are signing up to.

Since Covid, there has been a significant shift in the way workplaces operate and it has become clear that employers who can offer a range of wellbeing initiatives and those who actively demonstrate a greater understanding of the individuals within their organisation, will generally have better retention and recruitment rates. It can be daunting for employers to embrace a new way of working but the world of employment law is constantly evolving and only those employers who keep up with the changes will be the ones that don’t lose out.

Whether the previous year has been successful or not, our clients are always thinking about what is coming up on the horizon. So, planning and organisation is absolutely key to their success and we are here to help clients with any challenges they face.

If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact Natasha Smith on

email: NES@COOPERBURNETT.COM or tel: 01892 515022

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

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Picture: Balint Hamvas

Village welcomes new parent and toddler group

By Grace Corcoran

A NEW parent and toddler group has been set up in Rusthall to help provide the community with a safe space to make friends and build strong local support networks.

Working alongside Rusthall St Paul’s Church, Rusthall councillor Jayne Sharratt has set up the new group with village resident Liz Mankelow as well as Ann Softley, a local childminder who ran a group for many years before Covid.

Cllr Sharratt told the Times why she set up the group: “Liz and I met at a similar parent and toddler group when our own children were babies and toddlers, and we know how vitally important the connections, reassurance and friendships are; the strong local friendship network I gained back when my children were babies still helps me juggle my work, life and family balance fifteen years later, and I know that is true of countless families.”

Welcome Following Kent County Council’s decision to close The Children’s Centre in Rusthall, the new group will offer somewhere for parents and carers to go and find a warm welcome during what can be often a ‘challenging and isolating’ time.

“The closure of the Children’s Centres is devastating to local parents and children, and yes, knowing it was likely to happen definitely made setting up a parent and toddler group feel incredibly important to us. We can’t do everything that the Centre did but at least there will be somewhere local for parents and carers to go and find a warm welcome,” Jayne said.

“Being able to chat and make friends with

WHEELY GREAT: The Kidical Mass riders

First Kidical Mass bike ride takes place with more to follow others going through the same experience in your own community is always reassuring and can help families build strong local support networks and long-term resilience” she adds.

“It’s such a simple thing, but so powerful in the difference it can make to community cohesion and mental health.”

There is clearly a need for the group, with the first session welcoming 16 adults and 25 children to Rusthall St Paul’s Church.

“We really want to thank the church for their support in getting the group started and allowing us to use the hall, and all the volunteers and parents and carers who came and made the first session special,” she said.

The group will run from 9am to 11am every Wednesday morning in the Rusthall St Paul’s Church Centre hall on Rusthall High Street, and is open to all parents and carers of pre-school children and babies for a donation of £1 per family. The group also welcomes expectant parents who want to make local friendships before their baby is born, and siblings who are home-schooled and during school holidays.

For more information contact Jayne Sharratt on 07532 339434 or Liz Mankelow on 07840 837968.

By Jack Thornton INSPIRED by various successful A26 mass rides organised by Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Bicycle Users Group, Bicycle Mayor of Tonbridge, Alice Thomas decided to host the first ever Kidical Mass ride in Tonbridge in a bid to campaign for safer roads in the town for cyclists.

Kidical Mass is a global movement designed to promote safer roads and active mobility for children. There have been over 400 Kidical Mass rides held across Europe and the UK. Despite some drizzle on the day, locals were not deterred from attending the event with more than 115 riders taking part in the ride last month.

The majority of those involved were parents and children, but also taking part were young children on balance bikes, as well as Councillors Peter Lidstone (St John’s Ward) and Mark Hood (Leader of the Tonbridge and Malling Green Party). To ensure the safety of the younger riders, there was a first aider and over 10 marshals present during the event.

Having cycled everywhere when they lived in Hackney for ten years, Alice and her husband were shocked by how much more pollution they were breathing in and the lack of safe cycling

infrastructure in their hometown, when they returned to Tonbridge with their family.

Speaking to the Times after the event, she explained that she believes there is a ‘huge opportunity’ for Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council to make a positive impact in the town.

Healthier “Investing in dedicated cycle infrastructure benefits not only traffic congestion but also promotes a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle for our residents,” she explained.

“The implementation of well-designed cycling lanes and infrastructure has the potential to transform the way families and children commute to school or travel to work and the station.

“By providing safe and accessible routes for cyclists, we can encourage a shift towards a more sustainable mode of transportation, and ultimately alleviating the strain on our congested roads.

Following the success of their first ride, Alice has said that Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Bicycle Users Group would love to host more of these events in the future across both towns.

New Holiday Calculation Rules for 2024 Calculating holiday entitlement can at times, be challenging, especially when the rules around the method that is to be used, changes.

commission (where given) and any enhancements relating to professional or personal status.

4. Employees on family-related leave and also long-term sick leave, must be allowed to carry over unused holiday. This is not new guidance, and most employers will already be doing this.

You may recall, in 2022 the Supreme Court of the UK Sophie confirmed that part-year Forrest-Lavery workers would be entitled to 5.6 weeks holiday for the year (even though some of these workers don’t work a full year), following the Harpur Trust v Brazel case.

Legislative intervention to simplify holiday entitlement calculations has been required ever since and many employers will be pleased to know that with effect from 1st January 2024, this has arrived!

The new changes will be greatly received by many industries, including (but not limited to) hospitality, retail and education. The changes will relate to those on irregular hours and/or work just part of the year, for holiday years that commence on or after 1st April 2024.

We’ve covered this topic in greater detail in our recent blog, available on our website, but here is a summary of the main changes, plus a helpful reminder of some practices that were already in place.

1. Holiday entitlement will accrue at 12.07% of hours worked in a pay period, therefore providing entitlement in accordance with their actual working hours.

2. Rolled-up holiday pay will be allowed for irregular hours and part-year employees.

Rolled-up holiday pay is when an additional amount is paid for holiday along with basic pay, instead of making a payment at the time holiday is actually taken, as previously required. The calculation should be 12.07% of the worker’s earnings during the pay period.

3. Normal pay for the purposes of calculating holiday pay, must include overtime,

5. Employees who have not had a ‘reasonable opportunity’ to take holiday must be allowed to carry it over to the following year. This is also not new guidance and employers should always be ensuring that they have processes in place to monitor whether employees are taking their holiday, and to actively encourage them, where necessary. It should certainly be common knowledge that it is an absolute no no, to pay in lieu of any unused holiday entitlement, unless the Company provides more than the statutory 5.6 weeks entitlement or the individual’s employment is ending.

Holiday entitlement calculations can still be a minefield for some, contact the experts at ForrestHR for support and to discuss in more detail how these changes will affect your business.

01892 726060 | www.theforrestgroup.co.uk | hello@theforrestgroup.co.uk

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COMMUNITY

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Tunbridge Wells M&S staff celebrate colleague’s 45th year milestone Pic: M&S Tunbridge Wells

Community Hub set up to ensure ‘bright future’ of the Langton Green Pavilion CONGRATULATIONS: Christine Messenger (holding flowers) and her colleagues

By Ben Cornwell EARLIER this month, staff at Marks and Spencer in Tunbridge Wells surprised their colleague Christine Messenger when they organised a party to celebrate her 45-year tenure at the store.

Christine started at the M&S store on Calverley Road in 1979 after three and a half years working at the former Weekes department store on Mount Pleasant Road (now Hoopers). Her parents both worked at M&S at the time and so she decided to apply after being jealous that they would often have alternate Saturdays off, something she didn’t get in her role at Weekes which required her to work every Saturday.

Friends Despite now spending over four and a half decades at the store, she revealed that she felt ready to leave M&S after six weeks at the store as their rules and regulations were much stricter in comparison to her previous employment, particularly in regard to timekeeping and uniform standards. But she acknowledged that

the workplace culture and benefits were factors for her decision to stay on at the store.

She said, “In those days staff came and stayed like me for many years so I made lots of friends.

“We had a dentist, doctor, hairdresser, and two-course hot lunches, for which we had to buy little pink tickets similar to a raffle ticket. You had to hand in one for breakfast, two for lunch and one for afternoon tea. They would cost 5p a ticket.

“Not to mention the non-contributary pension.

All things you didn’t get in many places.”

Christine, who has worked across all departments in the store including the admin office for the last 18 years, told the Times that she hadn’t planned to celebrate her 45-year milestone.

But her store manager had other ideas.

She explained: “A member of the team said she was taking me out for a coffee as the business doesn’t recognise 45 years and she felt it would be nice, so we went to Fenwick - but whilst we were out of the store, they were putting a party together in our staff lounge!

“I will now celebrate at home with my husband and drink the lovely bottle of champagne I was given.”

By Archie Lawrence LAST week, an agreement was reached at Speldhurst Parish Council’s (SPC) meeting to decide the future of the Langton Green Pavilion.

The Times had previously reported on the ‘conflict’ between Langton Green Community Sports Association (LGSCA) and the Langton Pavilion Café over timetabling and use of space last year, which resulted in a sharing agreement.

A number of other challenges meant the future of the café was at risk, however, a positive outcome has been reached for the new year, with all parties happy.

Support At Full Council on Monday January 8, SPC voted in favour of the establishment of Langton Pavilion Community Hub, a Community Interest Company, within Langton Green Pavilion.

A spokesperson for the Hub, which has been set up to ‘support community activities’, said: “The Pavilion as a focus for the local community has been under threat for some time, we are delighted that the Langton Pavilion Community Hub CIC has been able to step in to support the community activities and enable the cafe to continue to serve the local community.

“We are looking forward to working with Thrive Langton and the Parish Council to build on what has become a valuable community asset.”

The Community Hub will be managed by Langton Green Village Society, and will incorporate Emma Howden’s Pavilion Café.

Emma, who has been running the café at the Pavilion for more than seven years, said she is ‘hopeful’ that the agreement is the ‘way forward to a brighter future’.

She added: “The cafe will be fully functional as usual with the added bonus of as many things that are a benefit to the community as possible.

The LGCSA will be continuing its sporting activities. The association use the Pavilion every weekend.

The charity, Thrive Langton, will see it run many of its existing and new events to support and nurture well-being and emotional health.

SPC told the Times that they are very happy with the agreement – it provides a community benefit, draws different groups, provides a place where people can meet and socialise, and they are very pleased the café remains.

The Langton Community Hub is open Tuesday to Friday 8.30am to 4.00pm. Evenings will be set aside for Thrive Langton and charity events and activities.

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NEWS

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‘Moral obligation’ to contribute to Horizon redress says Fujitsu boss

Football brain injury legal action reaches the High Court these very complex matters,” he

the wrongly prosecuted in said.

England and Wales could have “In that context, absolutely we their names cleared by the end of have a part to play and to the year under fast-tracked contribute to the redress, I think legislation after growing pressure is the words that Mr Bates used, to take more serious action. the redress fund for the Those whose convictions are subpostmasters.” quashed are eligible for a Mr Read, who took charge of £600,000 compensation the Post Office in September payment, while Mr Sunak offered 2019, insisted the organisation £75,000 to subpostmasters has now drastically changed. involved in group legal action PAUL PATTERSON He blamed a ‘culture of denial’ against the Post Office. for the company dragging its feet on Lawyers have said that hundreds more victims compensation, as he also appeared to concede could now come forward after being caught up the Post Office could ultimately face liabilities in the scandal. from the scandal of close to £1 billion.

But campaigners, including former Appearing before the same committee as subpostmaster Alan Bates who was at the centre former boss Paula Vennells did in 2015, he also of the ITV drama Mr Bates Vs The Post Office, hit told MPs he had not ‘seen any evidence’ that out at the ‘madness’ of delays at processing executives misled ministers, the courts or compensation claims.

Parliament at any stage.

Mr Patterson, who has been in his current role The scandal has seen calls for the Post Office to since 2019 but has worked at the firm for more be stripped of its private prosecution powers. than a decade, told MPs that there was a ‘moral But Mr Read has said he does not think that the obligation for the company to contribute’ to organisation will perform any more private compensation. prosecutions in the future.

“It’s also important that the inquiry deals with Picture: House of Commons/PA Wire

THE boss of Fujitsu has apologised to subpostmasters and said there is a ‘moral obligation’ for the technology giant to contribute to the compensation.

Fujitsu Europe director Paul Patterson faced a grilling by MPs yesterday (January 16) alongside Post Office boss Nick Read, as public and political anger continues over the Horizon scandal.

The role played by the Japanese firm has come under the spotlight, with Mr Patterson opening the hearing by offering an apology for the ‘appalling miscarriage of justice’ suffered by postmasters.

“We were involved from the very start. We did have bugs and errors in the system. And we did help the Post Office in their prosecutions of subpostmasters. For that we are truly sorry,” he told the Business and Trade Committee.

The global boss of Fujitsu, Takahito Tokita, told the BBC in Davos that his firm “apologised for the impact on the postmasters’ lives and their families”, but declined to confirm it would return any of the money it earned from the flawed Horizon system.

Days after an ITV drama on the scandal prompted outcry, Rishi Sunak announced that

NEWS IN BRIEF

UKRAINIAN President Volodymyr Zelensky took a swing at Russian President Vladimir Putin at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Switzerland yesterday (January 16) He also took a harsh tone with his allies as war fatigue grows, pressing political and corporate leaders to enforce sanctions, help rebuild his country and advance the peace process.

Defence Mr Zelensky is trying to keep his country’s long and largely stalemated defence against Russia in the minds of political leaders, as Israel’s war with Hamas, which passed the 100-day mark this week, has siphoned off much of the world’s attention and sparked concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East.

“Anyone thinks this is only about us, this is only about Ukraine. They are fundamentally mistaken,” he said in a speech in English in the ski resort of Davos. “Possible directions and even timeline of a new Russian aggression beyond Ukraine become more and more obvious.”

“Putin embodies war” and will not change, he said.

While lashing out at Mr Putin for mass deportations, flattening cities

and “the terrifying feeling that the war may never end”, he also offered pointed criticism for a world that told him not to escalate tensions ahead of Russia’s fullscale invasion in 2022.

“After February 24, nothing harmed our coalition more than this concept. Every ‘Don’t escalate’ to us sounded like ‘You will prevail’ to Putin,” Mr Zelensky said.

He thanked allies for each package of sanctions on Moscow but urged them to ensure they work. Russia, for example, has found workarounds for imports of banned Western products that still appear on shelves.

It is Mr Zelensky’s first trip to Davos since the war began after speaking by video in previous years, and he rushed between meetings with corporate executives and world leaders. Surrounded by a large security contingent, he has drawn the attention of media and others seeking to meet him.

Mr Zelensky, once reticent about leaving his country, has recently gone on a whirlwind tour to rally support for Ukraine amid donor fatigue in the West and concerns that former US president Donald Trump – who touted having good relations with Mr Putin – might return to the White House next year following his commanding win in the Iowa caucuses on Monday.

Picture: Ian West/PA Wire

Picture: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

Zelensky lashes out at Putin during Davos forum

Dame Joanna Lumley joins restaurateur on charity walk A RESTAURANT owner was joined

by Dame Joanna Lumley yesterday (January 16) as he began a charity challenge which will see him walk 3,000 miles through every London Borough.

Sujan Katuwal, who owns Panas Gurkha in Lewisham, south-east London, began his walk from the Embassy of Nepal, in west London, in support of Combat Stress, a charitable organisation dedicated to assisting Armed Forces and veterans coping with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Gurkhas The 48-year-old who is a ‘proud Nepali’ said: “The relationship between Gurkhas, Nepal and Britain has been going on for over 200 years.

“Coming from a Gurkha background, I want to give back to the Army for what they do day-to-day as because of them we are safe in London.

“Veterans often go through anxiety and depression, so to be part of this challenge to support them – it’s a joy.”

Mr Katuwal is to cover a mile for

each veteran seeking help for PTSD in 2024, with the aim of completing half a marathon a day over 200 days, which equates to 3,000 miles.

He said he hopes to spread mental health awareness through the challenge.

“It’s not only those who are part of Combat Stress who are facing mental health issues, it affects people on an everyday basis,” he said.

The restaurant owner has been planning the walk for six months and is to pass and visit famous London landmarks including the House of Lords.

He also hopes to showcase Nepalese culture by taking the flag of Nepal with him.

“Nepal is a beautiful country and if I can promote a bit of tourism there, that would be an honour,” he said.

Dame Joanna joined Mr Katuwal ahead of the first mile. He said: “She has changed my life, and she is a very important person in my life.”

The two previously met when the restaurant owner delivered more than 100,000 hot meals to key workers and vulnerable members

A LEGAL bid by football players, including the family of England World Cup winner Norbert “Nobby” Stiles, over brain injuries allegedly suffered during their careers has reached the High Court.

Yesterday (January 16), lawyers representing more than a dozen players appeared in the court in London for the first hearing in their claims against the Football Association, the Football League, the Football Association of Wales and the International Football Association Board.

Lawyers for the Stiles family have previously claimed the sporting bodies did not take adequate action to reduce heading the ball in training and during matches.

They have also alleged that on-pitch assessments of players showing symptoms of concussion are “not fit for purpose”.

A further hearing in the cases is expected later this year.

Lord Cameron makes Gaza conflict plea FOREIGN Secretary Lord Cameron has urged an immediate pause in the Israel-Hamas conflict to allow hostages kidnapped by militants to leave and for much-needed aid to enter Gaza.

Speaking during his monthly question time in the upper chamber, the Conservative frontbencher said: “We support a ceasefire but this must be a sustainable ceasefire that will last to prevent another generation from living under the constant threat of war.

“That must mean that Hamas is no longer in power in Gaza and able to threaten Israel with rocket attacks and other forms of terrorism.

Ahead of a permanent ceasefire we want to see immediate and sustained humanitarian pauses to allow hostages to leave and more aid to enter Gaza helping to create conditions for a durable peace.

“We would like to see such a pause start right now.”

Man campaigns for better water safety A MAN has helped launch a water safety campaign after his father drowned in the sea three years ago.

Robbie Jones released a film with the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF) about the ‘devastating impact’ of the loss of his father on the anniversary of his death.

Gareth Jones, 69, did not return from his walk with the family dog, Connie, in Hove, East Sussex on January 16, 2021 and CCTV confirmed the pair had gone into the water.

Despite rescue efforts by the RNLI, coastguard, Sussex Police and others, they were not found and their deaths were confirmed three days later.

The film shows Mr Jones tell his story of losing his dad and hopes to educate people about the dangers of open water in bad weather.

Card Factory reports Christmas profits Card Factory has revealed that its annual profits are set to reach the top of previous targets after a ‘strong’ Christmas period.

The high street chain saw demand for gifts help to boost sales across its shops.

Darcy Willson-Rymer, chief executive officer of the business, said it made progress with its growth strategy to drive the “strong performance” in recent months.

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COMMENT

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Matthew Scott Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent

Matthew Scott was first elected the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent in 2016 and re-elected in 2021. He sets policing priorities, commissions services to support victims, sets the Council Tax precept, manages the force’s budget, and holds the Chief Constable to account. He serves as the national PCC lead for Mental Health, and is chair of the board for the BlueLight Commercial organisation.

Leading the fight against antisocial behaviour ANTISOCIAL behaviour can be a blight on local neighbourhoods and leave a lasting impact on those who suffer from it. As I have written before, it is the responsibility of all agencies, including the police, councils and housing associations, to step up and support victims.

All of them have a responsibility to prevent it through their use of powers, CCTV, street lighting and commissioning of diversionary activities. However, too many people are unhappy with the response they receive. That’s why tackling antisocial behaviour is a key priority for my Budget plan for this year.

Kent Police has already boosted neighbourhood policing, with named PCs for every ward, more Officers and PCSOs in Schools, the establishment of the Tunbridge Wells Neighbourhood Taskforce and a new countywide antisocial behaviour team.

It’s easier to report crime and antisocial behaviour now, with 101 waiting times down significantly. And I have been promoting the Community Trigger (or ASB Case Reviews) as a way for local neighbourhoods to challenge authorities on their lack of response to antisocial behaviour.

The result of this has been a reduction in reported antisocial behaviour across the county.

That is good news. But I know that may not be

community to make your neighbourhood safer.

This is an opportunity for partners to be proactive and work with charities and others to fix these problems.

And if you are not happy with the response to antisocial behaviour – please do challenge it.

‘As part of my plan, there will be more visible patrols by officers in antisocial behaviour hotspots, as well as a focus on the problems caused by drugs’

everyone’s experience – it speaks volumes that the proactive local MP, Greg Clark, had to ask for a multiagency review of antisocial behaviour last year. We all need to redouble our efforts to crack down on it.

As part of my plan, there will be more visible patrols by officers in antisocial behaviour hotspots, as well as a focus on the problems caused by drugs. It is more important now than ever to ensure that antisocial behaviour and drugs offences are reported to the authorities so

Paul Curry The Alliance

that they can be dealt with.

Later this year I will commission a new immediate justice programme, so that perpetrators will be made to undertake some form of payback to the community within 48 hours. This sends a clear message that if you harm our neighbourhoods – you will be made to fix something as a result.

Funding will remain available from my office to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Community Safety Partnership to fund initiatives in the

You can contact me directly via contactyourpcc@kent.police.uk. Or if you have reported the same incident three times in a six-month period, please contact Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to request an Antisocial Behaviour Case Review.

I am confident that we can make your neighbourhood even safer if agencies work together. I believe that my plans, supported by funding from the Government, will help deliver the visibility, investigation and justice you all need and deserve. Antisocial behaviour is coming down – but I want it to fall further.

Paul Curry was elected onto the Borough Council in May 2023. He has been a parish councillor on Speldhurst Parish Council since 2021 and is the current chair. He is a software engineer for a major online publisher. He actively seeks to improve the infrastructure in the area by bringing gigabit fibre connectivity to Speldhurst and surrounding areas. He enjoys planning and executing projects which have a wide-scale impact for the community, but also getting hands-on, repairing the gates and fences in the local park in his spare time.

The Alliance represents a new kind of politics I WAS elected Councillor in May 2023. Nearly a year on, I’d like to share with you how things have shaped up over my first year in the exciting world of TWBC, and what it’s like – because I want to encourage you to get involved, too! Now, more than ever, candidates in my age range are coming forward and being elected. Even with full-time jobs, we find it rewarding work.

Impact In my case, I first got involved with Speldhurst Parish Council. I really enjoy how locallyfocused an organisation like this is – the work has a direct impact on our immediate community. From there, my interest grew to wider local politics – decisions at TWBC were affecting the community I live in. Why not have a voice there too?

The Alliance stood out as the best party – they are a good fit to my values and work ethic. I didn’t want to join a national party, and I wasn’t prepared to stand alone without support – I had no prior experience of Borough politics! Having a broad range of like-minded councillors to talk to while I found my feet was reassuring, a time-saver when figuring things out, and gave me context for complex decisions which came

before I joined. Further, with no whip, my vote always represents the interests of my neighbours who voted for me, which is very important to me. After hitting the campaign trail, meeting plenty of dogs behind letterboxes, and listening carefully to resident’s concerns, to my delight, I was elected.

Learning how local government operates by being part of it is an eye-opening experience.

‘Learning how local government operates by being part of it is an eye-opening experience’ You get to see just how much of what local government provides is devolved to wider government. You soon learn which department

or person is best to handle issues and enquiries, which can be surprisingly effective for getting matters resolved. Residents have a wide range of enquiries. It's very fulfilling being able to help your neighbours and being an important part of decisions that affect your ward and wider borough.

Ultimately, I really like people representing their local area in local government. Things start to get a little murky when larger parties stand candidates in areas they don’t live anywhere near, or when they oblige their Councillors to vote in a certain direction which doesn’t work for their constituents. That, to me, isn’t what local politics should be.

As a growing party, we are paving the way for the next generation of government; breaking free from outdated stereotypes. I can honestly say that it is exciting at times!

To that end, The Alliance is hosting a winter warmer with jacket potatoes, hot chocolate and mulled cider by the fireside. Join us for a chat or if you are interested in standing to represent your community! Come along for some food and fun at Hawkhurst Scout Hut on Sunday January 21 from 5pm to 7pm. It’s free to attend, with fabulous prizes available in a raffle and a sparkler or two. paul@twalliance.org

LETTERS

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

And another thing…

Dear Editor...

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

Stop knocking Tunbridge Wells SCARE techniques and naivety seem to percolate Mike Martin’s election bid/article in the Times of Tunbridge Wells on 10th Jan 2024.

He talks about solving housing for young people but, his party, the local Liberal Democrats, have kicked into the long grass for 10 years, the construction of much needed new housing planned (Tudeley new Village to Marden areas). His party voted against the results of consultation for smaller, less costly, more representative single Councillor wards. He appears neither to have read or to understand the Council’s Financial Statements which show the Council has a net value of £157.5million and free reserves of £28.8million. He mixes up the concept of budgets and actual financial results, all of which have done well under the Conservatives. He seems not to realise that only a small proportion of revenue to the Council comes from Council Tax; the majority is from fees, charges and earnings from prudent investments and additional services (including Royal Victoria Place with the Council retaining the Freehold ownership), all created by the Conservatives.

TWBC is in a stronger financial position than surrounding Councils. It has a legacy of good financial management and a quality finance

department. – 14 years of unqualified audit reports is a significant achievement. My message to Mike Martin is to stop knocking our Town and our Council and its financial strength.

Mike Martin’s claims are reminiscent of the local Lib Dem Councillors who have achieved little except for fining motorists and increasing parking fees thus deterring visitors to our town.

The Lib Dem led Coalition inherited the opportunity to generate income from shared working space in the Town Hall but somehow delayed its implementation for 18 months. They claim credit for inherited achievements – as Deputy Leader I recall detailed discussions with Anglo American and AXA (the former and present owners of the Cinema site) addressing the on-sale of this site – but Lib Dem Councillors were not involved. I can assure everyone that the opportunity to acquire the long leasehold of RVP resulted from TWBC being in a strong financial position and not the ‘financial black

Don’t ignore facts about climate change

global political and economic stability.

I’ve used my 300 words, so the message about how we avoid this catastrophe will have to wait for another occasion. In the meantime, please don’t wake Mr Brown from his blissful slumber.

Dr Robert Chris

HAVING been steeped in study and research about climate change for almost 20 years, I can understand that for folk like Keith Brown, the truth is so profoundly depressing that ignorance and denial are a safe haven.

The prospects for avoiding a climate catastrophe in the coming decades are increasingly poor. This is not because we don’t know how to avoid it, but rather because the climate polluting social, political and economic structures we have built over the last few centuries, both nationally and globally, are so deeply embedded that it is nigh on impossible to change them at the scale and speed now necessary. This is hardly surprising. Our modern well-being, and the aspirations of the billions less well off, depend upon energy consumption.

The proportion of the global energy supply coming from fossil fuels has been around 80% for decades. Why wouldn’t it be? Fossil fuels are amazing. 1 litre of petrol provides the work equivalent of about 100 hours of effort by a healthy adult. The recent growth in renewables has made little difference because of the continuing growth in overall energy demand.

The likelihood of significantly reducing that percentage while simultaneously stimulating economic growth, is close to zero on any timescale that is likely to avoid a climate catastrophe.

The net zero by 2050 policy we hear so much about is tragically ill-conceived. Even if we got there tomorrow and the current scientific orthodoxy were right (which it almost certainly isn’t) that surface temperature would stabilise at whatever level it had by then reached, we’d still see temperatures well above those we’re already experiencing. The poles and mountain glaciers would continue to melt raising sea level, ecosystems already stressed would become even more so, extreme weather events would continue to be more severe and more frequent. This would amount to much more than a few local difficulties. It would undermine

Goodbye Calverley

Calverley’s off; was it something I said?

We’ll miss him.

Retirement? Or pastures new?

Charlotte Steerpike.

Raising money for Samaritans

With it having been ‘Blue Monday’ on Monday January 15, I thought the fundraising that I’m doing, for the Samaritans, with a group of friends from Kent, Surrey and Sussex might be of interest.

My sister, Antonia, is a volunteer for the Samaritans and I have good reason to believe passionately in the cause, and in the essential work they do. Every 10 seconds, Samaritans responds to a call for help. We’re staying silent for 10 hours to raise money for them.

We are committing to silence from 7am till 5pm on the 2nd March, and we hope to be set up in Tunbridge Wells for the day collecting donations and raising awareness, pending council approval.

Around 6000 people a year in the UK die by suicide. The Samaritans are working to reduce this number. Lets try to help them continue this important work. We’d really appreciate you sharing our efforts.

Hannah Brown

hole’ suggested by the Lib Dem led coalition.

Regenerating our town after COVID is not helped by scare tactics and a lack of financial understanding. Needed investments in the town and borough are not encouraged by Ben Chapelard naively pronouncing he would “hold developers’ feet to the fire”.

David Scott Prev Deputy Leader TWBC Delighted Tunbridge Wells vehicle fumes all the way. I had sort of forgotten about early morning cold starting emissions.

Mum used to be the same and would smell a car coming into a road, Dad said. The post-war benefits of meat and dairy do not seem to be so good and I find myself in better health without those.

As well, choosing populist governments that seem to be selected for the amount they squabble and back-stab, and that Labour copy it to try and get elected seem silly or reflects cynicism in all systems.

From the time when I was born, things have changed from being made to last with some planned obsolescent and short life things to things being mostly that way. We have always recycled repaired and reused, but British made coats, shoes and most things would last, a British carpet and a bicycle were made to last 100 years and are very comfortable. Cars have always been recycled, engines did not last so

13

with dynamos and starter motors were reconditioned a number of times the small smart cars made in the 1930s still in use in the early 1960s. If we ran small cars but with modern improvements now, we would have better air quality, which makes so many of us, rather than big and fast vehicles there are more of.

But the amount binned per home is no doubt twice what it was before wheelie bins were introduced in 1992 and probably twice again what it was in the 1960s when little was thrown away but was repaired, composted or the rag and bone man took. All this time we (British) lead in selling weapons, promote war, but persuaded USA to not have war in Europe against Russia/USSR until now perhaps? We should have continued supporting Palestine with police to protect them from the Israelis, but no doubt that was not profitable. The cost is that military create pollution if it was a country to be equal 4th dirtiest one and leave people hating other people.

Food waste is now an even bigger problem, and I am pleased to use Charlie’s Angles Café, they serve the sort of food my parents would have grown up on before and during World War 2. Combination of population and consumption growth could be resolved with kindness and education more successfully.

Sadly, Christmas was not about peace but wars and profiting from them happening everywhere which creates more hate and sells news.

The climate damage and war costs predicted in early Doctor Who and Star Trek may still come about. Climate change became a certainty about it 40 years ago, but people selected governments that, but for greenwash, did little about it. Same story as feeding the starving of Europe, proposed by a few people in the 1920s including our king, would have stopped the rise of Nazi-ism and would have been a much cheaper option.

I am not sure when this British Axminster Carpet bought in the 1970s probably, they used to last 100 years like those lovely old Raleigh bikes would as well up until 1960.

Andrew Lohmann Tunbridge Wells

PEPPY SAYS...

www.justgiving.com/page/hannahbrown-1704830348846 www.justgiving.com/team/silenceforsamaritans

‘Population and consumption growth could be resolved with kindness and education’

I walked from my house early, coughing from the

Letters printed on these pages do not reflect the views of the Times of Tunbridge Wells. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter if too long.

CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)

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Local News

EDUCATION

15

‘We’re committed to making a positive difference in our school and community’ Two brothers who both attend St Gregory’s Catholic School have just been re-elected to Kent Youth County Council. The Times finds out more about what their unique educational role involves and how it benefits them and their peers…

TWO students from St Gregory’s Catholic School in Tunbridge Wells have recently been successfully re-elected as full members of the Kent Youth County Council (KYCC) for 2024.

Jojo, a student in Year 8 at the Reynolds Lane school, will represent Tonbridge, while his brother Danny who is in Year 10, continues in his role for Tunbridge Wells.

‘Immersing themselves in the intricacies of local government courtesy of their roles on the Kent Youth County Council, Jojo and Danny participate in debates and engage in various campaign projects’ “The two brothers are very enthusiastic about embarking on another term as Youth Councillors so they can continue with their impactful campaigns for another year,” a spokesperson for the co-ed Catholic school told the Times.

“Their dedication and success in the recent elections, reflects their commitment to making a positive difference in their communities.”

As members of KYCC, Jojo and Danny attend

COUNCIL MEMBERS : Danny and Jojo outside County Hall monthly council meetings alongside around 60 other young representatives from across Kent.

Each member is aged between 11 and 18 years, and is elected to represent and act upon the views, issues and opinions of young people across the county.

Immersing themselves in the intricacies of local government, Jojo and Danny participate in

debates and engage in various campaign projects.

In his role, Jojo has actively contributed to the Climate Change and Environment group, as well as the Stop Racism and Discrimination group.

“For the last five years, we’ve been really active in our own local projects to clean up our environment and it is something that I’ve

enjoyed been able to continue with KYCC by working with the Environment and Climate Change group,” explains Jojo.

Meanwhile, older brother Danny has been actively involved in the Tackling Poverty and the Opportunities for Young People campaigns.

Speaking to the Times, Danny explained: “I’ve always been interested in politics, so it has been really useful to get an insight into how the council works and to have the chance to work on some important campaigns.”

Both brothers have showcased their creative talents by making podcasts, conducting interviews on diverse career paths, and designing posters and animations.

Jojo’s team is also gearing up to launch a schools eco competition, encouraging students from across the county to participate.

Jojo explains a little more about this: “We are launching a school litter-themed competition soon across Kent schools and hopefully it will get more people involved in tackling the problem. We always say that one small action can make a huge difference.”

“The boys’ deep-rooted interest in local matters, protests, and activism has found a meaningful outlet through their roles in the Kent Youth County Council and they look forward to continuing to follow their passion for change and improvement in their coming term,” added the St Gregory’s spokesperson.

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Commercial property market gets off to a strong start in 2024

Handelsbanken marks 15 years in Tunbridge Wells

By Stuart Killacky, Handelsbanken THE Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells branch has now been open for 15 years. Based at 77 Mount Ephraim, we offer individual and corporate banking, as well as wealth management, all with distinctly high levels of bespoke customer service.

Community We are sometimes referred to by our customers as ‘banking’s best kept secret’. Each branch operates as a local business, which means we know our customers well and really understand the local environment, market and community.

Our branches are fundamental to our bank and business model, they are the home for the long-term relationships we aim for with our customers.

Part of our offering, and an important aspect

on which we have built our business here in Tunbridge Wells since the beginning, is the provision of personal mortgages. Whether you are looking for your first home, moving to a new home, or need to consider a remortgage, then the right advice and guidance at the right point in time can be invaluable to help you make the right decisions at key points throughout the whole property purchase process.

Buying a property can sometimes be challenging and will need to be given serious thought, especially in the current interest rate environment. There are, of course, ways to protect against the volatility of interest rates through fixed rate mortgages – all options that can be explained and discussed in detail by your mortgage advisor/lender.

We are here to help guide and advise on all types of mortgages – all relationships start with a conversation. Contact us at handelsbanken. co.uk/en/find-branch/tunbridge-wells

PRIORY PARK CHRIS Lawson of Lawson Commercial reports a terrific start to 2024. He said that activity remains ‘extremely strong’ in most sectors, particularly industrial and retail and welcomes any landlords who have vacant premises to contact him as we have lots of enquiries. There are some great opportunities for businesses wanting to expand.

Rural The firm is currently marketing some delightful small office suites at Priory Park in Withyham on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells. Most suites are ground floor and they range from 1-2 person suites of under 200 sq ft to multiple sizes as big as 700 or 800 sq ft. It’s a delightful rural setting, easy to get to and with plenty of car parking.

All suites are rated below the 1,200 sq ft rates threshold so if you qualify you won’t be paying any business rates and rents start at £250 per calendar month plus VAT – well worth having a look around.

If you’re looking for a small office which you want to own or a small investment, then Lawson Commercial has a delightful office suite at Lonsdale Gardens, only a few minutes walk from the main railway station and adjoining the shopping thoroughfare of Mount Pleasant.

It’s an established office location being in an imposing building called Prospect House. The small suite is available for £99,500 on a 999-year lease and you can rent car parking spaces in Lonsdale Gardens on an annual basis.

Viewing is strongly recommended. lawsoncommercial.co.uk

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Home from home in Rusthall THIS beautifully presented, three-bedroom, semi-detached property creates the perfect family home for anyone looking to reside in the heart of Rusthall Village or within a ten-minute drive of Tunbridge Wells.

Approaching the property, you are greeted with a wide driveway, providing ample space for two cars, eliminating the need for parking on the road. Upon entering the property, you are welcomed by a generous entrance hall, offering plenty of space for storage of coats and shoes.

Relaxation

Consider investing in property for your future

By Becky Moran, TN Lettings THE buy-to-let market for individuals has had several hits in the last decade with interest rates, lockdown and Section 24 ‘Tenant Tax’, which reduced tax relief on mortgage interest payments for landlords. This has really hit those landlords with one or two properties the most and many have chosen to sell over the last couple of years.

One landlord I know had their interest payment increase threefold literally overnight as a rate expired and the repayment became slightly more than the rent! Adding in zero offset of interest and as a higher-rate taxpayer it was costing them over £12,000 a year to have the property rented out.

There are two solutions though, if you are lucky enough to have cash then you can just

purchase outright. For the majority of us looking to invest the other option is to start a limited company and buy properties through this as the Section 24 doesn’t apply to limited companies and you can offset income against the interest payments. There are of course downsides to this as lending rates may be higher, required deposits bigger, potential higher taxes and are of course the additional costs that come with running a limited company. That said, it is becoming a more popular way of investing money for your future for those looking for the security of bricks and mortar.

As with any investments though I’d always suggest seeking independent financial advice.

If you would like to chat about becoming a landlord or have a property to rent out please do give us a call at TN Lettings on 01892 249070

To the front of the property is the lounge area, boasting a box bay window which helps to create a spacious and homely feel to this family area. The living space flows seamlessly through to the open plan kitchen-diner, creating the perfect blend of comfort and relaxation. This wonderfully proportioned area is perfect for hosting dinner parties or enjoying some R&R after school time. The kitchen provides several luxuries, for example, LED lighting, a breakfast bar and a variety of integrated appliances and pantry. Located via the kitchen is a utility space that can also be accessed via the front and rear of the property. This provides the opportunity for additional storage, utility appliances and a backdoor entrance which is useful for bringing

in pets to avoid muddy pawprints!

Additionally, this open plan space offers further versatility with large patio doors leading out into the rear garden.

The garden provides both lawn and decking, creating the ideal space for entertaining. Also in the garden is a work-from-home space which has been insulated and hard-wired, providing an excellent opportunity for those who work remotely.

Ascending the stairs to the first floor of the property, this floor comprises two double bedrooms and a single bedroom. All three of the bedrooms benefit from large windows, with ample space for storage and shelving units.

Also located on the first floor is the family bathroom, boasting a free-standing bath in addition to a spacious shower cubicle, creating the perfect oasis to relax after a long day.

Located in the heart of Rusthall Village, this property is in the prime location for accessing Rusthall’s many amenities. The village offers a number of local businesses such as a hardware store, bakery, butchers, library, chemist and cafe. There are also a variety of takeaway cuisines, a convenience store, and church.

There is a reliable bus service that runs from the village into Tunbridge Wells Town Centre every 15 minutes, providing access to the many pubs, restaurants and shops that Tunbridge Wells has to offer.

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Building your dream home: 10 considerations for a successful and stylish self-build project…

B

well as design, think carefully about the choice of materials, some age better than others.

uilding a self-build home is a thrilling and rewarding endeavour, offering the chance to tailor and design every aspect of your living space. However, designing your self-build home requires careful planning and consideration. If you want to build your dream home from scratch but don’t know where to start, here are ten crucial aspects to contemplate when embarking on the journey of designing your self-build home.

6. Legal and planning considerations

requirements. Consider factors such as family size, workspace needs and specific features that align with your daily routines. A well-designed home should adapt to your lifestyle, providing both functionality and comfort.

Make sure you research and familiarise yourself with local building regulations, planning permissions and zoning laws. By ensuring that your design complies with these requirements, you will avoid potential delays or complications during the construction process.

Consult with local authorities or planning professionals such as Sited if needed.

4. Energy efficiency and sustainability

7. Interior and exterior aesthetics

1. Budget wisely

Before you dive into design ideas, establish a realistic budget. Do your homework and not only research build costs, but also consider construction costs, unforeseen expenses, potential overruns and any additional features that you may want to include. Avoid getting carried away and don’t waste your time designing a house that you cannot afford to build. Staying within budget is essential for a successful self-build project.

2. Choose the right people

One of the biggest and most important decisions you will have to make is deciding who you will trust with the job of designing your new home.

Choose an architect and builder who understands your vision, as well a professional who has experience in self-build projects and a portfolio that aligns with your style. Effective communication and a shared vision are key to turning your dream into a reality.

3. Understand your lifestyle needs

When designing your home make sure you analyse your current and future lifestyle

Don’t forget to consider sustainability and integrate energy-efficient design principles into your plans. Explore renewable energy sources, eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient appliances, it will not only contribute to a greener environment, it will also help to reduce your energy bills.

5. Future-proofing your design

When designing your self-build, anticipate future needs and trends whilst ensuring that you design with flexibility in mind. Consider potential changes in your lifestyle, such as a growing family or evolving work requirements.

Future-proofing ensures that your home remains functional and relevant for years to come. As

Think carefully about what you want out of your home, do you want to embrace smart technology design? How important is natural lighting to you? How many bedrooms do you need? Consider architectural styles, materials you want to use.

You may also need to consider accessibility requirements and maintenance, certain designs and finishes will require more upkeep than others.

8. Planning permission

One of the biggest hurdles and most daunting task is getting through the planning process.

With so many rules and regulations it can be overwhelming and tricky to know where to start.

Seeking help from a planning consultant will be beneficial in so many ways, they will not only have an understanding of what is deemed acceptable by local planning authorities, they can also recommend a trusted architect or designer. Sited offer invaluable advice and can take care of the whole process from start to finish.

9. Landscaping and outdoor spaces

Extend your design thinking to the outdoor spaces, don’t forget to plan for landscaping and outdoor living areas, gardens and sustainable landscaping that will not only create an inviting and well-rounded home environment, you will also enhance the overall curb appeal.

10. Develop a detailed brief

Whether you are outsourcing to an Architect or designer or you are going to come up with your own design, it’s absolutely vital to devise a design brief, the more detailed the better. Your brief should include: • Occupant details: How many occupants, ages, do you want to factor in a working space? Do you need a guest room?

• House size: How big do you want your home to be? How many bedrooms? The type of living space required.

• Non-negotiable features: What are you not willing to live without? Do you need a ground floor bedroom, gym or home office? Do you want a downstairs toilet or want an en-suite.

• Budget: Be very clear on your budget and make sure you factor unexpected costs.

• Planning conditions: Make sure you include any planning conditions that you are aware of in your design brief.

Mortgages that work for you,

without the hard work As a relationship bank we think getting to know you is the best way to help you. You’ll have a dedicated account manager from application to completion, making those key decisions so your move is stress-free.

Ready to move? So are we.

Call Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells branch today on 01892 547702

handelsbanken.co.uk/tunbridgewells Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage Our lending facilities are only available to persons aged 18 or over and are subject to status. Written quotations and Terms and Conditions are available on request.

Handelsbanken is the trading name of Handelsbanken plc, which is incorporated in England and Wales with company number 11305395. Registered office: 3 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1WY, UK. Handelsbanken plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Financial Services Register number 806852. Handelsbanken plc is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ).

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NEW YEAR NEW HOME 2024 RUSTHALL OIRO £440,000 This beautiful 4 bedroom, terrace property set over 3 floor is a perfect family home, providing all the outdoor and indoor space needed with outstanding interior.

The kitchen displays a large open space with natural light, as well as many wall and base cupboards. The kitchen/dining area boasts the perfect space for entertaining and cooking your favourite meals whilst having the company of your guests. EPC D, Council Tax D, Freehold.

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This beautiful detached property has been tastefully renovated and offers four bedrooms upstairs plus the option of using one of the reception rooms as an additional bedroom if required. With ample off road parking this luxurious home is a true masterpiece set in a beautiful location. All bedrooms benefit from large windows and plenty of storage, with the master bedroom also benefiting from an en-suite with a generous shower area and underfloor heating. EPC D, Council Tax F. Freehold.

This 2 bedroom detached Barn Conversion is benefiting from gorgeous views, quiet location and a large garage. All on one floor, the accommodation comprises; large lounge diner (over 28 ft long), kitchen, 2 bedrooms and a shower room, situated in the lovely village of Hartfield. EPC D, Council Tax E, Freehold

Reasons to choose KMJ Property Genuinely Family Run/Owned Contactable 24/7 Three offices across Kent & East Sussex Shortlisted for Best Customer Service in the South East Best in Postcode for Customer Service Best Estate Agent Award for Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough included in the Best Estate Agent Guide Genuine, honest advice, whenever you need it Contact us on 01892 515188 or 01342 824824

26

Property Feature

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Sponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells

Trends in garden design for 2024

by Tim Sykes, Gardenproud IN this month’s Times Property special I am turning my thoughts to emerging garden trends for 2024.

In addition to that key trend of sustainability and how features can contribute to a more environmentally friendly and long term solution, biodiversity is another big one to think about introducing into your garden.

However I am going to concentrate on two other important trends: Kitchen Gardens and Outdoor Entertaining Spaces.

Incorporating a kitchen garden into your garden design

For many the concept of a kitchen garden may at first appear an extravagance, but it can be an intrinsic part of your garden design and deliver an amazing array of homegrown produce throughout the year. Not only will you and your family enjoy the process of planning and nurturing these plants, but also the fulfilment and superior flavours that will compliment your cooking, both indoors and outdoors.

Beauty As Marylyn Abbot beautifully illustrates in her book ‘Gardens of Plenty’ a kitchen garden can also create a stunning vista. So it can form a valuable component within the beauty and ambience of your garden. In a small town garden, combined with a nice terrace, it could be ‘the garden’. In a larger property it might form an attractive and active outdoor room.

Vast gardens, such as Villandry in Northern France demonstrate the balance between food production, rotation and aesthetics perfectly. So the capability to create beautiful kitchen gardens has been around for centuries.

In the UK famous chefs such as Raymond Blanc created his Michelin Star, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons where a Potager Garden adjoins the restaurant and provides fresh produce for the delicious servings. For inspiration locally visit the gardens at Gravetye Manor where the kitchen garden also feeds their excellent restaurant. You can also sample culinary delights at The Small Holding at Kilndown where the kitchen garden is very much part of the offering.

So what might the essential components of a great kitchen garden be?

- Overall a layout that works in the context of your garden and deals with the practical and creates the framework in which a stunning design can evolve - Some basis components that allow it to function: ● A potting and tool shed ● A small greenhouse, or cold frames ● A composting area, or hot bins ● A water and electric supply ● A screened storage area ● A series of raised beds ● A fruit cage ● Pathways wide enough to cope with wheelbarrows Armed with all these components and a design framework you might think about some planted elements that will help give the garden year round interest, focal points and soft landscape structure.

To stock the kitchen garden and create a rotation plan for your produce think about your cooking, the salad products, vegetables and herbs you like and use the most (or would like try), then start to plan how each bed might be planted and when. Don’t try to plant too many varieties in each bed, keep a focus.

For your structure consider using topiary.

Often plants such as Bay Tree Half standards can double up as useful herb supplements and also create dramatic focal points. For borderline low hedging, plants can add colour and form, such as lavender and rosemary and also attract pollinators.

Other structural elements that provide excellent food sources include espalier, or low pleached fruit trees, especially when caned together to form an interesting avenue.

If you are hankering for further inspiration some friends of ours have a beautiful kitchen garden situated near Market Harborough. I highly recommend a visit to their garden, you’ll find Westbrooke House in the Yellow Book. They have open days in April, May and June.

Throughout our experience we have created many kitchen gardens, so do contact us if you are interested in incorporating one into your plans for 2024.

Entertaining your friends outdoors

The climate is changing and summers are getting hotter. Last year was one of the warmest

on records and the summer of 2022 witnessed Mediterranean style heat. So outdoor living is definitely becoming a real option for us.

What better accompaniment to a brilliant ktchen garden than an outdoor entertaining area?

Here your home grown fresh salad produce will seamlessly become a delicious ingredient in your summertime parties and barbecues with friends and relatives.

Increasingly the outdoor entertaining terrace is becoming part of the outdoor room concept homeowners specify in any garden design.

This may incorporate an outdoor kitchen, dining and lounge areas. Often the dining and cooking areas adjoin and a multipurpose pergola with an electric roof provides controllable shade and shelter from the occasional spot of rain, or the blistering midday sun.

These pergolas can also fitted with inbuilt lighting and infrared heating to help extend those summer parties well into the evening.With top of the range brands such as Renson you can spec pretty much everything and be assured of their quality and durability, whereas at mid price other brands, such as Suns Lifestyle offer a good spec at an excellent price point.

We’ve recently designed a small outdoor

kitchen to a project near Tunbridge Wells. This was supplied and fitted by Grillo Living. It incorporates a decent amount of grey porcelain work surfaces, with plenty of storage below in the smart carbon black cabinets for all your cooking implements, wood for burning, gas bottles etc. This particular spec also includes a very stylish Delavita pizza oven and a swish new integrated BULL Outlaw, bottled gas 4 burner grill.

Grillo is a modular system. So you can create a myriad of layouts and specify the kitchen to suit your taste. Include outdoor refrigeration, Ice stores, outdoor bars, plumbed in sinks, and ceramic ovens. The choice is endless.

Finally, the terrace surface is an important consideration and this can vary from highly practical surfaces, such as porcelain around the cooking area, to more natural stone products that create a design statement around the lounge and dining spaces. How these all interface and how the hard landscaping can be softened by clever planting is all part of the skill a professional designer will bring to your solution.

For help with your garden design and construction contact Tim Sykes at Gardenproud on 07725 173820

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Arts

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

How our local symphony orchestra is fine-tuning a fab finale to another successful musical season…

FENELLA HUMPHRIES SHOW OF HANDS: Guy Portelli with his sculpture, Starman: Innerspace

STEPHEN HOUGH

Having celebrated its centenary in 2022, the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra continues its 2023-2024 season with an exciting new concert on February 4 at the Assembly Hall. Eileen Leahy talks to its chair Frances Armstrong about the season’s remaining concerts which include star turns from the legendary pianist and composer Sir Stephen Hough as well as performances by pianist Joanna MacGregor and violinist Fenella Humphreys…

T

he Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra (RTWSO) opened its 2023-24 season on October 1, with Joo Yeon Sir’s dazzling performance of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto at the Assembly Hall theatre. The concert was conducted by the RTWSO’s Roderick Dunk and featured select pieces by Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky and Rachmaninoff.

Since then the formidable orchestra, which was founded on February 4 in 1922 in the King Charles the Martyr Hall, has hosted a series of wonderful concerts for its current season, including one with trumpeter Aaron Azunda Akugbo and last weekend’s special show at Sevenoaks School, which featured world-famous violinist Nicola Benedetti playing Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy, alongside works by Fauré and Dvorák.

On February 4, its 102nd anniversary, the RTWSO will continue the second half of its season with a concert that sees the return of guest conductor Barry Wordsworth (BBC Concert Orchestra, Royal Ballet, Sadlers Wells Ballet) with a programme including Britten’s Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6. Internationally renowned pianist Joanna MacGregor CBE will perform Britten’s Piano Concerto.

The RTWSO is made up of gifted, local musicians and professional orchestral players from London and the South East and its chair Frances Armstrong tells the Times that she is very excited about the rest of the season: “This series of concerts embodies the essence of the orchestra: a commitment to artistic excellence and the joy of sharing beautiful music with the community.”

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

She adds that the orchestra’s last two concerts of the season will be conducted by the RTWSO Music Director and Principal Conductor Roderick Dunk and will take place on March 3 and April 7.

“Alongside Wagner’s Rienzi Overture and Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4, Fenella Humphreys performs the much-loved Sibelius Violin Concerto on March 3. Our final concert then takes place on April 7 with a stellar performance by Sir Stephen Hough of the much-loved Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.3, the concerto that featured prominently in the

‘This series of concerts embodies the essence of the orchestra: a commitment to artistic excellence and the joy of sharing beautiful music with the community’ film Shine about the life of David Helfgott. The April concert, and indeed the season, will come to a sparkling and virtuosic end with Bartok’s Concerto for Orchestra.”

Although well established, Frances says that the RTWSO is always on the lookout for new members, particularly brass and upper strings.

“We are a ‘pro-am’ orchestra, meaning that we are made up of around 45 local non-professional members who rehearse weekly, and a further 35 professional players drawn from London and the South East who join us on concert days. Of course, working this way creates terrific opportunities for our local members to experience performing alongside some of the top players in the business, but we would be thrilled for the ratio to be higher in favour of local members!”

Frances goes on to say that the RTWSO is proud to support and encourage young musical talent in and around Tunbridge Wells. “Each season we welcome a handful of exceptionally

talented sixth-formers who come along and play with us regularly at our Friday evening rehearsals, some of whom also get the opportunity to take part in our concerts. It’s wonderful to see these young players develop their playing and their confidence week after week as they gain invaluable orchestral experience.”

Through the RTWSO’s Education Outreach Project the orchestra reaches out to a younger audience to inspire them and nurture their talent. The project began in October 2015 with a visit to Langton Green Primary School for an orchestra workshop based on The Planets Suite

by Holst. To date, over 4,800 pupils have seen our outreach presentations, which has led to many children taking up music lessons and enjoying exposure to new musical activities such as composition and conducting.

“In recent years our Education Outreach Project has expanded to include secondary schools and has featured a conducting workshop with international conductor Alice Farnham and a brass masterclass with star of the BBC Proms Aaron Azunda Akugbo,” adds Frances.

And although it might now be 102 years old, she confirms that the RTWSO is still going from strength to strength.

“We are incredibly proud to have become a jewel in the crown of the cultural scene for Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas.

Featuring world-class soloists and a diverse range of works, this year’s series of concerts promises to be another great success for the orchestra as it continues to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages!

“We believe passionately in encouraging music-making, nurturing new talent and enhancing the skills of players of all ages. We take great pleasure in performing an enjoyable and diverse range of orchestral concerts that are designed to inspire all music lovers.”

For more information on the RTWSO visit www.rtwso.org Tickets for each concert cost £22 per person and are available from

JOANNA MACGREGOR

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Arts

29

Health & Wellbeing

LUCY PARKER trim frame. They may feel ashamed about their lack of designer gear or their mince pie belly. If that’s you I suggest you take a leaf out of the very brilliant book ‘A Liberated Mind’ by Steven Hayes and ‘Build in tiny amounts of exercise everywhere you go’. Start right now and be creative, use your bag or a carton of milk to practice some bicep curls, stand up and rise to your tip toes and back down again for balance, practise some squats as you wait for the kettle to

boil, run up the stairs. After a week or so of this you might find you like it and want to step it up a little. The point here is to start and let the body know it’s important to you and is being cared for.

Next, I suggest you invest in yourself and seek the advice of a skilled, trained, experienced teacher or trainer to help you develop your repertoire and increase your stamina. We are blessed with some fantastic teachers in Tunbridge Wells, and I encourage you to seek them out.

We are all a friendly welcoming bunch, and our aim is to help you out, whatever your starting point.

When looking for a PT, Pilates or yoga teacher please be courageous and check their qualifications.

You’re looking for someone that has been well trained and is experienced to help you both safely and effectively.

If you’re looking to start yoga, then do come and see me. I offer 1-2-1 yoga sessions that are fully bespoke and entirely tailored to you and your present needs and limitations. I love nothing more than a challenge and have a very strong understanding of the anatomy of the

RIGHT RELAXATION

NOW, we all instinctively know the importance of daily exercise, and yet not so many of us adhere to a regular routine, sighting, time, money, motivation and lack of understanding as reasons not to move our bodies. So, let me remind you of the many benefits that you could start to see very quickly once you adopt a healthy attitude toward exercise and start to consider it a non-negotiable in your daily routine. Firstly, there’s the obvious benefit for your physical body, keeping weight in check, moving your joints, muscles and bones to help us feel strong, mobile and ward against osteoporosis and broken bones. Our organs and nervous system get a boost, helping with our digestion and regulating our mood and sleep patterns. Exercise can help to reduce symptoms of pain and of course is great for your heart!

Then there’s the benefit to our brains, we really feel better for it, more happy, motivated and uplifted. We have a joie de vivre, that goes hand in hand with a wonderful sense of satisfaction and self-confidence. And it helps us live longer!

Of course, you already know all of this, and yet I wonder if you’re one of the millions of people who do little to help themselves through exercise despite their intellectual understanding of the extensive list of benefits. Here’s my advice, firstly take a good honest look at why you don’t.

Many people ironically don’t exercise for fear of feeling embarrassed about their lack of fitness or

RIGHT BREATHING

Join the Times’ wellbeing guide, Lucy Parker, from Flow Tunbridge Wells, for the next step in her six-part series looking at the key health pillars that can enhance your life…

RIGHT EXERCISE

A daily exercise routine is the first pillar of your wellbeing

RIGHT NUTRITION

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

RIGHT THINKING

30

body and mind.

I have been teaching yoga since 2010 and am also a BACP recognised counsellor and psychotherapist. If you’re looking for a more PT approach, I highly recommend Sarah Gorman at Blendfit who, is also exceptionally knowledgeable, experienced and an all-round wonderful person.

The main takeaway is to MOVE every day, however, whenever or whatever you do. It’ll make you feel better, bring a smile to your face and enhance your overall holistic wellbeing. If you would like to start yoga get in touch with us at Flow, we can arrange some 1-2-1 sessions with Lucy to build your confidence and awareness or you can purchase our intro pack for only £40, giving you four one-hour group classes to try.

Flow Tunbridge Wells, four-class pack introductory offer – only £40.

Lucy Parker, Coach, Counsellor, and Yoga Therapist flowtunbridgewells.com embarkcounselling.co.uk

Fashion

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Seeking the sun

31

Fed up with the weather? Then Charlotte Newman of Kitch boutique on the High Street suggests you dream of sunnier climes and invest in some key pieces from Miss June’s Radiant 2024 Collection…

AS the winter season unfolds its chilly embrace, we turn our attention to the sun-drenched allure of winter getaways. Miss June, a brand synonymous with bohemian elegance, unveils its eagerly anticipated 2024 collection, a celebration of sunlit escapes and the freespirited soul.

In a world that can sometimes feel monochromatic during the winter months, their Spring collection is a burst of colour reminiscent of a tropical paradise. Vibrant hues reminiscent of a warm sunset—think coral reds, sun-kissed yellows, and oceanic blues—dominate the palette, evoking the radiant glow of a winter sun.

The collection seamlessly blends the brand’s signature bohemian flair with a contemporary edge, offering a range of pieces that effortlessly transition from beachside bliss to city chic.

At the heart of the collection are flowing maxi dresses that billow with the gentlest of breezes, capturing the essence of carefree island living.

Each piece is meticulously crafted with lightweight fabrics that cascade elegantly, creating an ethereal silhouette. The dresses feature intricate embroidery and playful patterns, transporting you to a world where the sun never sets and every moment is a celebration of life.

The collection also places a strong emphasis on versatility, offering a range of pieces that effortlessly transition from day to night. The collection’s signature maxi dress boasts a

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flowing silhouette that can be paired with ankle boots for a daytime stroll or elevated with statement accessories for an evening out.

Short dresses adorned with delicate detailing can be paired effortlessly with a pair of metallic gladiator sandals and straw basket bag, creating a playful yet sophisticated look. Accessories also play a pivotal role in completing the winter sun ensemble.

The collection seamlessly blends the brand’s signature bohemian flair with a contemporary edge Oversized sun hats with wide brims provide both style and shade, while beaded sandals add a touch of bohemian chic to any outfit. This adaptability reflects their understanding of the modern woman’s dynamic lifestyle, where clothing must be as adaptable as she is.

As we navigate the winter months, let Miss June be your guide to a wardrobe that effortlessly blends warmth, style and femininity, proving that even in the coldest of days, clothing can radiate with the warmth of the winter sun. The collection stands as a testament to their ability to capture the spirit of adventure and infuse it into every thread, making winter sun a perennial state of mind. So why not escape the winter blues and immerse yourself in a world of colour, prints and unparalleled style...

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The Great Brittens Sale continues…

Upright pianos from £500!

Rathbone guitars up to 1/3 off!

SALE Sandner violin bundles from £199!

Selected Sheet Music discounts!

See us in store or online for more amazing sale offers.

32

Books

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Times reporter Grace Corcoran picks three reads for your week

This week, a thriller set in the New York theatreland by Alexis Soloski, a love story spanning two decades from Matt Cain, and Bettany Hughes explores ‘The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’ Here in the Dark by Alexis Soloski

Published in hardback by Raven Books, priced £16.99 Who better than a prize-winning New York theatre critic to write about a sharp-witted New York theatre critic drawn into a web of mystery and suspense? Alexis Soloski steps out of the dark in her debut novel, following the life of Manhattan critic Vivian Parry, who agrees to be interviewed by graduate student David Adler, believing it will boost her profile and chances of promotion. The student disappears, the police refuse to investigate, and his fiancée begs Vivian to find him, so she begins a journey laced with lies, deception – and danger. She plays the role of an amateur detective, encountering a dodgy private eye – oh, and discovers a dead body. The Brooklyn-based author keeps readers enthralled from the first to the final, dramatic act. Let’s hope she writes an encore.

Review by Alan Jones

One Love by Matt Cain

Published in hardback on January 18th by Headline Review, priced £20 Matt Cain’s sixth novel follows Danny and Guy who have been friends since university, flitting between their first meeting, a weekend away two decades later, and all the years in between. Danny has been besotted with Guy since day one and hopes they may finally become more than just friends when they go back to Manchester for Pride. What follows is not what readers might expect, but is instead a thoughtprovoking look at the complexities of human feelings, behaviour and motivations. An enjoyable read, but it can take a while to get used to the time jumps – and it would have been nice to read more about the other characters.

Review by Beverley Rous

The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

by Bettany Hughes Published in hardback by W&N on January 18, priced £25

In ‘The Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World’, Bettany Hughes brings to life astonishing feats of engineering and creativity in mostly long-destroyed wonders. Her historical storytelling encourages the reader to question why humanity creates, why we remember some wonders over others, and what it is about the stories entwined with them that fire our curiosity. The Great Pyramid of Giza, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Temple of Artemis, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia, the Mausoleum of Halikarnassos, the Colossus at Rhodes and the Lighthouse of Alexandria have made staggering imprints on our planet – and while we are taught their relevance in school, this book emphasises not only the scale and majesty of each of the Seven Wonders, but the human story behind them and encourages the reader to fall in love with them all over again. This book will fire your imagination and take you on a wonderful tour of the ancient world.

Review by Amanda De Beer

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Antiques

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

The timeless appeal of Maison Jansen

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Rudolph Hamilton of Pushkin Antiques explains the enduring popularity of the French design house, the works of which have graced the homes of the world’s elite collectors...

A

s the Winter Solstice fades into memory, the residents of Tunbridge Wells find solace in the gradual return of longer, brighter days, whispering the promise of spring drawing near. Yet, the weather remains cold, prompting people to stay warmly cocooned at home. Maison Jansen's captivating allure in the realm of interior design and lighting becomes particularly cherished during these cosy moments, as the warming lights and ambience offer comfort and solace in the early anticipation of spring.

Established in Paris in 1880 by Jean-Henri Jansen, the firm swiftly gained acclaim for its exceptional attention to detail, opulent designs, and impeccable craftsmanship. It became the preferred choice for the elite, counting figures like King Leopold II of Belgium and the Shah of Iran among its clientele.

Expanding its focus beyond interior design in

the early 20th century, Jansen ventured into lighting. Combining expertise in ornate furnishings with innovative lighting design, they crafted extraordinary fixtures adorning luxurious homes, palaces, and grand hotels worldwide.

Characterised by grandeur, attention to detail, and elegance, Maison Jansen's lighting drew inspiration from various design movements, including Neoclassical, Art Deco, and Hollywood Regency. These fixtures often featured exquisite materials like crystal, brass, and bronze, meticulously crafted to captivate with their play

‘Characterised by grandeur, attention to detail, and elegance, Maison Jansen's lighting drew inspiration from various design movements’ of light. Collaborations with prominent designers, artists, and architects, such as Jean-Michel Frank and Armand-Albert Rateau, cemented Jansen's reputation as a trendsetter.

Their creations graced prestigious spaces, including the White House during the Kennedy administration.

Though sought after in their prime, Maison Jansen's lighting designs continue to endure in influence and desirability. Vintage pieces remain coveted by collectors and design enthusiasts for their intricate craftsmanship and timeless allure, seamlessly complementing diverse interiors.

HOUSE CALLS FOR FREE ANTIQUES VALUATIONS There is no obligation to sell, so call Clive Today to arrange a home visit at no charge and at your convenience. He will advise you personally on your items and absolute discretion is guaranteed.

Clive Attrell is back and available throughout Kent & East Sussex for home antiques valuations (Appointment Only)

Call Clive on 07860 942726

Free antiques valuations by ITV and BBC television personality Clive Attrell. Clive is an experienced and internationally respected antiques valuer with over 40 Years’ experience in the business.

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34

Food & Drink

Food for thought when it comes to following a diet that works...

January is traditionally a time to detox and diet but although many of us start out with the best of intentions, some of us fall by the wayside a few weeks into the month. There are lots of reasons as to why this could be – lack of motivation usually being at the top of the list – but recently Slimming World discovered that FOMO (fear of missing out) is a huge factor in why people ditch the diet. Here a spokesperson for the Tunbridge Wells area tells the Times more about their findings…

H

alf of UK adults (49 per cent) say they’ve put off trying to lose weight due to ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out) – with missing out on favourite foods and social events fuelling

(72 per cent) say food brings them joy. Of those, 31 per cent say eating food prepared by someone else makes them feel loved, 64 per cent say it’s the taste of food which brings them joy and 41 per cent find food nostalgic as it brings back happy memories such as family traditions or routines.

Dr Amanda Avery, health and research consultant dietitian at Slimming World, says: “Food is one of life’s greatest pleasures so it’s no wonder food FOMO is a very real factor for many of us when it comes to losing weight. As the research shows, in many cases certain foods can have a powerful pull on us, evoking memories and emotions and rekindling flavours and pleasures experienced in the past. Often, finding the desire or motivation to alter deeply ingrained habits around the way we shop, cook and eat can be challenging and that’s where support can be crucial to help slimmers.”

For women who want to lose weight, living a healthier lifestyle (42 per cent), eating the foods they love (33 per cent), feeling full, satisfied and not hungry (30 per cent) and still being able to socialise (16 per cent) were all important factors when choosing an approach to follow.

The survey, carried out by Censuswide, also polled members of Slimming World’s 13,000 community weight loss groups and online programme. The vast majority of members (88 per cent) say they enjoy eating food as much or more than they did before joining Slimming World and 91 per cent agree you can lose weight while enjoying your favourite food.

Of the members questioned, Sam Green from Tunbridge Wells, who attends the Tunbridge Wells Saturday group has successfully lost four

HEALTH BITE – TRY THIS DELICIOUS SLIMMING WORLD CHICKEN STIR FRY This chicken chow mein recipe combines soft noodles, chicken and stir-fry vegetables to create a tasty Chinese classic.

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this fear.

Foods people fear missing out on most are chocolate (29 per cent), takeaways (24 per cent), fish and chips (21 per cent) and fry ups (18 per cent).

More than three-quarters of people say they get pleasure from eating their favourite foods (77 per cent) and two in three (64 per cent) feel passionate about the food they eat. So much so in fact that more women say they fear missing out on their Sunday roast (35 per cent) than going without sex (21 per cent).

Showing how much pleasure we get from food, the survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by the UK and Ireland’s largest weight-loss organisation Slimming World, found seven in 10

‘Half of UK adults (49 per cent) say they’ve put off trying to lose weight due to ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out) – with missing out on favourite foods and social events fuelling this fear’

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

stone with Slimming World.

Sam says: “Since losing the weight I have felt so much better in myself, I’m not worried about having my photo taken anymore and have more confidence than ever. I never thought I could do it, but if you really throw yourself into it and treat it as a lifestyle change and not a diet, then anything is possible, especially with a great group and consultant supporting you through the changes ahead. I’m close to my target now, but don’t intend to stop going to the group when I get there as I don’t want to undo all my hard work.”

Slimming World’s approach combines support to change your mindset around food with a flexible healthy eating plan, called ‘Food Optimising’, which can be tailored to your lifestyle.

Members, who attend a weekly group or access support online, learn how to create healthy versions of their favourite foods or meals, such

‘Slimming World’s approach combines support to change your mindset around food with a flexible healthy eating plan, called ‘Food Optimising’, which can be tailored to your lifestyle’ as roast dinners, fry ups or fish and chips, so they can lose weight without ever feeling they’re missing out.

Dr Avery comments: “Changing habits takes real effort and without support, it can be easy to give up. Being part of a community where you’ll meet other people on the same journey who share their ideas, experiences and advice has been shown to help keep motivation high. There is no need to give up your favourite foods or miss out on the pleasure they bring you though – it’s just about finding new ways to prepare and cook the meals you love. Within Slimming

World groups members receive in-depth expert support, led by a Consultant who’s lost weight on the programme themselves, to reshape the way they think about food and activity.”

Professor James Stubbs, Appetite & Energy Balance, University of Leeds, agrees the fear of missing out (FOMO) on our favourite foods or feeling deprived goes beyond hunger.

He says: “It is overly simplistic to assume that we eat just because we are hungry. Recognising how food meets different psychological needs in different people helps us explain why people eat what they do when they know it may undermine longer-term weight and health.

Typically, people might start to feel deprived of different ‘rewards’ that food gives them when they change their dietary habits for weight loss purposes. What this research shows us, is that our relationship with food can be complex and understanding our relationship with food at an individual level is important in helping people navigate to a healthy diet and healthier weight in a way that fits into their own lives.”

For more information on local Slimming World programmes, visit: slimmingworld. co.uk

Ingredients: 4 tbsp light soy sauce 1 level tbsp hot chilli sauce 2 tsp Chinese rice vinegar or white wine vinegar 4 garlic cloves, crushed 2cm piece root ginger, peeled and finely grated 1 level tsp Chinese five-spice powder* (see tip) 3 large skinless and boneless chicken breasts, thinly sliced 200g dried medium or thin egg noodles Low-calorie cooking spray 200g mangetout, halved lengthways 225g can water chestnuts, drained 225g can bamboo shoots, drained 1 red pepper, deseeded and thinly sliced 8 spring onions, sliced diagonally 1 level tbsp sweet chilli sauce 4 tbsp dark soy sauce Thinly sliced red chillies, to serve (optional) Method: Place the light soy sauce in a large bowl and stir in the hot chilli sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger and five-spice powder. Add the chicken and stir to coat in the dressing.

Leave to marinate for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the noodles according to the pack instructions and drain well.

Spray a large non-stick wok or frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray, add the chicken mixture and stir-fry over a high heat for 4-5 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Add all the vegetables and stir-fry for a further 4-5 minutes.

Add the noodles, sweet chilli sauce and dark soy sauce and cook for a further 4 minutes, or until piping hot. Divide between 4 bowls and serve immediately with sliced red chillies on the side, if using.

A SLIMMING WORLD CASE STUDY: Sam Green from Tunbridge Wells, who attends the Slimming World Tunbridge Wells Saturday group has successfully lost four stone with Slimming World: “Since losing the weight I have felt so much better in myself, I’m not worried about having my photo taken anymore and have more confidence than ever. I never thought I could do it, but if you really throw yourself into it and treat it as a lifestyle change and not a diet, then anything is possible, especially with a great group and consultant supporting you through the changes ahead. I’m close to target now, but don’t intend to stop going to the group when I get there. I don’t want to undo all my hard work.”

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Dine for less at The Brasserie

JANUARY sales aren’t limited to retail giants this year; restaurants across the country are also embracing the spirit of savings. Tucked just a stone’s throw from the famous Pantiles, The Brasserie at One Warwick Park Hotel is no exception. The restaurant is introducing a range of enticing offers to counter the winter blues and make dining out more affordable.

A favourite among hotel guests and residents, The Brasserie offers a menu featuring traditional favourites with a unique twist. Its commitment to local ingredients and seasonal changes means a fresh experience with every visit.

This January, the menu welcomes new additions, such as a duo of duck featuring duck breast, duck leg bon bons, and celeriac fondants. Joining the lineup are a warm quinoa

salad and pan-fried salmon, alongside staples like the Brasserie burger and battered cod and chips.

To celebrate the introduction of these new dishes and to make them more budget-friendly, the restaurant is offering special deals for its customers throughout January.

Buy one main, get another half-price For those looking to double the pleasure without doubling the cost, The Brasserie has introduced a half-price offer on mains when one main is purchased from the new menu. Available daily, this offer provides the perfect opportunity for diners to enjoy something different from the new seasonal offerings, like the artichoke risotto, without breaking the bank.

Books

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Three courses for £22.50 Every Wednesday and Thursday, from 5pm to 9.30pm, The Brasserie is offering a set menu featuring a wallet-friendly three-course meal for just £22.50. From comforting starters like warm flatbread and hummus to satisfying mains like the pumpkin squash ravioli, there’s something hearty to enjoy no matter your preference. Finish

making it the perfect opportunity to indulge in quality dining without the hefty price tag.

Vegetarian options are also available.

your meal on a sweet note, choosing between the warm chocolate brownie, the classic sticky toffee pudding or a selection of ice cream and sorbet.

Steak night special Looking ahead to the weekend, The Brasserie is continuing its popular steak night every Friday. For just £59, diners can enjoy two succulent steaks, two sides, and a bottle of wine,

Ashes to Light Concert

The Amelia is presenting an evening of classical music featuring the music of Bach, Chopin and Bloch and performed by professional musicians Alex Metcalfe (piano) and Patricia Calnan (violin), in the beautiful, intimate setting of the Upper Atrium in The Amelia Scott. This is set alongside the incredible story of imprisonment of Nelly Ben-Or in the Łódź ghetto and her escape, narrowly evading recapture by the Nazis. She eventually settled in England and found international success as a concert pianist.

Be sure not to miss this unforgettable evening.

Sat 27 Jan 2024 | 7pm The Amelia Scott - Upper Atrium Supported by

Scan here to Book Now

Happy hour Ease into the evening with The Brasserie’s daily happy hour, running from 5pm to 7pm.

Whether it’s unwinding after work or catching up with friends over the weekend, the restaurant’s ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ offer on selected wines, beers, and spirits is available alongside all other offers. Whether you fancy a classic gin and tonic to go with your half-price main or a mid-week glass of Pinot Noir to complement the set menu, the drinks menu promises something for everyone to enjoy. brasserie-owp.co.uk

36

Travel

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Beat the January blues with these dazzling sea and sky escapes

COTE D’AZUR

Dreaming of golden sand and azure skies? Banish the winter gloom by considering some of these vibrantly-hued holiday breaks instead, says Sarah Marshall…

A

sobering slap in the face after weeks of festive delirium, January could be the world’s harshest reality check.

Work schedules are back in full swing, bank balances have hit rock bottom, and it’s probably raining outside.

By the third Monday in January – in this case the 15th – most of us are ready to throw in the towel, leading the date to often be declared the most depressing day of the year.

But there’s no reason why we should all wallow in self-pity and despair… Being blue isn’t always a negative state of mind – switch thoughts to azure oceans and cerulean skies, and suddenly the world starts to look like a better place.

We’ve selected some of the brightest holiday ideas so you can swap those January blues for more soul-soothing ones…

yourself in sun, sky and scenes of blue sea than by skydiving above an Indian Ocean paradise.

Launched last September, Ifuru is a private island resort with the first permanent skydiving dropzone in the Maldives, designed in collaboration with world champion skydiver Will Penny.

Between November and March, guests can glide above tropical islands in the Raa Atoll while dolphins play in the waves. Alternatively, take the opposite direction and travel below water to dive with whale sharks.

How: A seven-night all-inclusive stay costs

Island hop on a cruise

Surround yourself with every shade of blue on a cruise through the Caribbean. Onboard the 4,198-passenger mega-ship Odyssey of the Seas, observation capsule North Star promises 360-degree views, 300ft above sea level. Setting sail from Florida, call into some of the best beaches on Aruba and Royal Caribbean’s very own private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. There’s also a chance to stop at Curacao, the former Dutch-governed island famous for its electric blue liqueur.

How: The eight-night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day full board cruise costs from £748pp.

Flights extra. Departs April 13. Visit royalcaribbean.com or call 0344 493 4005.

Fly through sea and air

There’s no better way to fully immerse

Pic: PA

from £3,108pp, including flights and transfers.

Email sales@nonewsnoshoes.co.uk or call 01670 510580.

‘There’s no better way to fully immerse yourself in sun, sky and scenes of blue sea than by skydiving above an Indian Ocean paradise.’

Walk through a painting

It’s called the Côte d’Azur for a good reason.

Beguiled by the French Riviera’s light and colours, artists like Matisse, Monet and Renoir all found inspiration for their palettes along this blue coastline, while Chagall and Picasso even called it home. Discover the region’s cinematic scenery on an easy-going hiking trip through the Provencal countryside, including France’s smallest national park, Port Cros. Expect to walk between two and four hours per day.

How: The six-day Walking the Côte d’Azur & Golden Isles tour costs from £1,120pp, including

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

Travel

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk hued soft corals and vibrant fish life, with air temperatures of 25C making it an ideal winter sun getaway. A 30-minute drive from Hurghada International Airport, the lagoons of El Gouna host more than 100 bars and restaurants, including the cool adults-only Cook’s Club with its own saltwater lagoon and private beach.

How: A seven-night B&B stay costs from £560pp, including flights. Select dates in February. Use code BIGSALE. Visit easyjet.com or call 0330 551 5165.

Discover natural beauty

Stretching its wings as wide as the length of a

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pencil, one of the world’s largest butterflies can be found fluttering through rainforest canopies and along the sparkling coastlines of Costa Rica.

The blue morpho is one of many shimmering creatures inhabiting one of the most biodiverse places on our planet, which has become a premier beach and wildlife destination. Split time between the jungle and choose from two coastlines lapped by the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea. How: A 10-night trip costs from £5,325pp, including mixed board accommodation and flights. Visit abercrombiekent.co.uk or call 03330 604 425.

Pic: PA

B&B accommodation. Flights extra. Available from April 1 to October 25. Visit walkersbritain. co.uk or call 0800 008 7741.

Embrace wild extremes

Contrasted against ochre sands, Middle Eastern skies look bluer than anywhere else on the planet. At this time of year, when temperatures are comfortably warm without being searingly hot, wild and rugged Oman is a delight to explore. Wander through spice markets in Muscat and hike through the Hajar

Mountains. Cool off in wadi oases and camp overnight in the Wahiba Sands desert to admire the stars.

How: A nine-day escorted Undiscovered Oman trip costs from £2,799pp. Flights extra. Departs February 10. Other departures available. Visit yellowwoodadventures.com or call 0207 846 0197.

Look above and below

Don’t be fooled by its name; Egypt’s Red Sea boasts a myriad of colours. One of the world’s top dive destinations, it’s packed with multi-

COSTA RICA

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38

Motors

Wednesday January 17 | 2024

The Lexus LBX is a posh SUV in a compact package FACTS AT A GLANCE

Pictures: Lexus

MODEL: LEXUS LBX PRICE: FROM £29,990 POWERTRAIN: 1.5-LITRE HYBRID POWER: 134BHP TORQUE: 185NM MAX SPEED: 106MPH 0-60MPH: 9.0 SECONDS MPG: 62.7 EMISSIONS: 102-108G/KM

What is it?

What’s under the bonnet?

Lexus occupies quite an interesting space in the UK’s motoring landscape. It is known, of course, for its premium models which largely revolve around larger, more high-end body styles. Take the full-size RX SUV, for example, or the comfort-focused ES. But even Lexus can’t ignore the growing demand for smaller SUVs and crossovers, which has prompted the creation of this – the LBX. It’s built with a little help from Toyota – the LBX shares a platform and engine setup with the firm’s Yaris Cross – but has been tweaked to give it some of the hallmark features which people expect from Lexus, such as a higher-quality interior and improved refinement. But in a segment as cut-throat as the one for crossovers, can the LBX stand out?

The engine setup in the LBX is one thing which remains largely unchanged against the Yaris Cross. It’s a standard ‘self-charging’ hybrid setup which uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine at its core, linked to a new ‘bi-polar’ hybrid battery which aims to bring more power compared with a traditional battery but with far lower weight.

In fact, weight is a big factor with the LBX as at 1,350kg, it’s remarkably light compared with many of its rivals.

Efficiency-wise, this hybrid system pays dividends. Lexus claims that you could get up to 62.7mpg combined alongside CO2 emissions of between 102 and 108g/km. Power goes to the front wheels via a CVT automatic gearbox and, if you’d like a little extra traction, an all-wheeldrive version will be available.

What’s new?

What’s it like to drive?

As we just mentioned, the LBX is based on the same platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross.

However, Lexus has been keen to impress that this is far from some cookie-cutter operation, with a variety of edits made to differentiate it from this donor vehicle.

But its arrival marks a big change for Lexus.

The LBX will be the brand’s smallest vehicle

All of the major driving characteristics in the LBX are positive. As we mentioned, it’s a light car and this transfers through to the way it drives as it manages to feel nimble and agile through the bends, while the steering has a nice bit of weight to it. With a 0-60mph time of nine seconds dead, it isn’t what you’d call fast, but the electric assistance that you get away from a

you really press on the throttle but drive the LBX in a calmer fashion and it feels far more suited to the job. It’s ideal for around-town driving; it’s only when you need to join a motorway that it really becomes noisy.

How does it look?

Lexus has actually done away with quite a lot of its hallmark styling touches for the LBX. Gone is the huge spindle grille that we’ve seen on a number of its models, replaced instead by a more modest setup. This is a compact car, after all, so a gigantic front grille might’ve looked a little strange – but it does mean it stands apart from the rest of the Lexus line-up.

The good news is that the LBX has a good choice of colours, with our test car’s ‘Sonic Copper’ shade looking particularly good. It’s joined by yellows, blues and reds and though there are more understated greys and silvers available, it’s just nice to see some brighter shades on offer in a new car.

What’s it like inside?

Lexus always aims to take its cars down a more premium route than others in the market and, in most places, this is the case with the LBX. Smart stitching, nicely damped buttons and a good fit-and-finish help to elevate it above rivals, though there are some scratchier plastics placed here and there with the large glovebox being a noticeable area where things don’t feel quite so top-end.

Rear-seat space isn’t too bad, though if there’s a taller driver then the person sitting behind them is going to feel quite squashed. Though there’s the capacity for three-abreast seating in the LBX, it really does feel like this would be best suited to occasional use – it’s far too small to be seen as a reliable five-seater.

What’s the spec like?

when customer deliveries start in March 2024, while its sub-£30,000 price tag reflects a more value-focused approach from a brand which has never traditionally shied away from more ‘top end’ prices. Already, Lexus sees the LBX as one of its core models moving forward and predicts more than 25,000 examples to sell across Europe in 2024 alone, of which 6,000 will be in the UK.

dead stop means it feels a little bit sharper away from the lights than the figures might suggest.

Though Lexus is known for its hushed cabin the LBX does suffer from some prominent wind and road noise – particularly when you’re travelling over rough surfaces – but it isn’t too bad and is largely what we’d expect from a car of this size. The CVT gearbox, as is the case with nearly all cars using it, is loud and raucous if

The LBX range kicks off at a competitive £29,995, with entry-level ‘Urban’ grade cars getting plenty of equipment from the off.

Interestingly, in a time when most car manufacturers are slimming down their specifications lists, Lexus, well, hasn’t. In fact, there are a total of seven trim levels and we’d rather there were a few less since it’ll make deciding between them a lot more confusing.

However, if you opt for that entry-level Urban grade you’re getting 17-inch wheels as standard

alongside LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors and a 9.8-inch touchscreen with all the smartphone mirroring systems you need. At this price point the LBX makes for quite good value, too, and though you can move through the ranks – and rise as high as the £40,545 Takumi Design specification – it feels as though this Lexus delivers more than enough equipment without having to trouble the upper echelons of the trim list.

Verdict:

It takes quite a lot to stand out in this crowded market, but we reckon that the LBX has done just enough to put its head above the parapet. It’s a fine alternative to cars like the Audi Q2 which is now starting to feel its age, with the LBX’s well-specified interior and efficient powertrain setup making it a choice which both feels a little bit special and yet still economical to run.

We’d argue that at higher specifications the LBX becomes a little too expensive to recommend, but in lower grades – and at that all-important sub-£30,000 price tag – this is quite a convincing small crossover.

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