Times of Tunbridge Wells 19th October 2022

Council’s cost of living fund has no money in it

EXCLUSIVE By Richard Williams

A FUND setup by the Council’s new ‘Borough Partnership’ to help Tunbridge Wells’ ‘neediest and poorest’ through the cost-of-living crisis has no money in it, the Times can reveal.

Back in July, the coalition Cabinet at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC), which is made up of Lib Dem, Labour and Alliance councillors, announced that it would provide a £100,000 Community Support Fund.

The pot of cash was meant ‘to provide support for those struggling on low incomes and help them cope with the cost-of-living crisis amid rising inflation and energy and fuel prices’.

Council Leader Ben Chapelard (Lib Dem) announced the financial help

during the July 20 Cabinet meeting, saying afterwards: “Tonight, the Borough Partnership Cabinet took decisive and urgent action to tackle the multi-million pound deficit that we have inherited from the previous administration.

through our Community Support Fund.”

But the Times can reveal that three months on, the balance of the fund still stands at zero with no money having been paid into the cash lifeline since it was setup.

It had been hoped the £100,000 for the Community Support Fund would come from any surplus money the Council had left over following its budget review that it began in July.

“As part of that action I am proud to say that the Cabinet has agreed to look to raise £100,000 to support the neediest and poorest residents in the borough

In that review, the Borough Partnership laid out plans to scrap free parking at Council-run car parks in Southborough and Paddock Wood, as well as introducing parking charges at Dunorlan Park.

Assembly Hall Theatre

Tunbridge Wells assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

AssemblyHallTheatre AssemblyHallTheatre

‘The Lib Dem-led coalition is very quick to make announcements before understanding the difficulties of delivery’

NO STRINGS Thousands of people descended on Calverley Grounds at the weekend as the Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival returned for a one-day spectacular with an underwater theme. Full story

Council’s cost of living fund has no money

The Cabinet subsequently U-turned on these decisions following a public outcry that led to petitions and protests.

It has now emerged that the Council has no surplus following the review, leaving the Community Fund empty.

The news emerged during a TWBC Finance and Governance Cabinet Advisory Board meeting last week (October 11), when Cllr Marguerita Morton (Lib Dem, St John’s) asked the Council’s Director of Finance, Lee Colyer, whether the fund had been abolished.

He replied: “The fund exists but it does not have any money in it as there was no surplus at the end of the budget review.”

The lack of surplus means there will be no

cash available to help struggling families until after winter, when household bills are set to rocket.

But Leader of the Council, Ben Chapelard, said ‘advice’ was available to struggling families at this time of year.

Difficulties

He told the Times: “The Borough Partnership is very conscious of the financial challenges people are facing and to this end we are focusing efforts on working with our partners and have recently held a cost-of-living crisis summit.

“Anyone experiencing difficulties in paying their bills can go online to the Council’s website.”

But the Tunbridge Wells Conservatives said the

coalition had been too ‘quick to make announcements’ since taking over the Council in May this year.

Head of the group and the former leader of the Council, Cllr Tom Dawlings, said: “During the meeting the Director of Finance confirmed that there were no funds in the Community Support Fund – a fund which the Liberal Democrat-led coalition had announced the creation of in the summer.

“My assessment of the Liberal Democrat-led coalition is that it is very quick to make announcements, especially on matters it perceives are popular, but this is done well before gaining much understanding of the difficulties of delivery and especially of the financial constraints under which the Council has to operate.”

Hospital waiting list reaches new milestone

By Richard Williams

WAITING lists for treatment at the Trust that runs Tunbridge Wells Hospital are now almost 50 per cent longer than before the Covid pandemic struck, figures have shown.

The record numbers of people waiting for elective procedures and non-emergency surgery such as knee and hip operations at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) reached 44,586 patients at the end of August according to NHS England data released last week –the highest figure since records began in 2007.

Patients

This is up from 43,192 on the waiting list in July, but a rise of more than 14,000 on the numbers of patients that were awaiting treatment before the pandemic struck in March 2020, when the waiting list stood at 30,407 patients.

Last Thursday’s (October 13) figures show there has been a rise of 46.64 per cent to the waiting list over the last two years.

The longest lists at MTW are for Ophthalmology, which has 6,655 patients on its waiting list,

Bus strikes now on hold but ambulance drivers balloted

By Lilly Croucher

STRIKES planned on the buses this week have been called off following a pay offer by travel company Arriva that has been put to union members.

The strikes, which were to take place on Wednesday to Friday (October 19 -21) across Arriva depots in Northfleet, Gillingham, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, were part of a series of walk outs over pay.

While planned strikes for this week have been called off, a week-long walkout scheduled for half term next week has not yet been cancelled but if union members accept the pay offer, it could be called off.

Workers

The offer has yet to be made public, but union bosses have been asking for a 12.3 per cent pay rise.

Unite said they will take the offer to colleagues this week and expect a decision from the ballot at the weekend.

The news comes as the GMB union says it will be balloting 15,000 workers from 11 ambulance trusts across England and Wales for strike action, including at the South East Coast Ambulance service (SECAMB) that serves most of Kent and East Sussex.

The ballot opens on October 24 and closes on November 29. Any potential strike action could take place before Christmas.

The strike is in response to the Government’s four per cent pay award, which the union says will see workers facing a real-terms pay cut.

Only 70.1 per cent of patients at MTW are being seen within the government’s 18-week target – the operational standard for all hospitals in 92 per cent.

However, the figures come amid a backdrop of record numbers on waiting lists across England.

The NHS England data shows waiting list for

treatments has hit seven million people for the first time ever.

The figures show there were 7 million people waiting to start routine hospital treatment at the end of August – up from 6.8 million in July –and the highest number since records began.

Nobody at MTW was available to comment on the waiting list figures when the Times approached them this week.

this week…

CULTURAL HUB: Amelia Scott centre among 11 local buildings honoured at the Civic Society’s annual awards P6

Mask wearing has been re-introduced at Tunbridge Wells Hospital in Pembury.

MTW has said the move was due to ‘the recent increase in COVID infection rates in the community’.

The Trust had dropped the requirement for patients or visitors to wear face-coverings at the end of June, though certain clinical areas, such as the respiratory ward, still required masking.

From today (Wednesday October 12), all visitors and patients are required to wear a face mask in all areas of the hospital as well as MTW’s Maidstone site, unless exempt or there is a clinical reason not to wear one.

Face masks will be made available at main entrances.

The requirement for routine lateral flow testing was stopped on April 1 2022, but MTW now asks all visitors to take a lateral flow test

within 24 hours of going to one of the Trust’s sites.

Patients coming into hospital will be told if they are required to take a lateral flow test.

Visits are limited to two visitors per patient at any time, but more than two people can visit during visiting hours (12pm-7pm). Visitors under 16 are not permitted, and MTW reissued guidance to using personal phones and devices.

There are more restrictive visiting requirements for certain parts of the hospital.

Over the last seven days (October 12-19) the borough of Tunbridge Wells recorded a rate of 83.2 positive Covid cases per 100,000 population, compared to 99.6 in Tonbridge & Malling, 113.7 in Sevenoaks and 103.9 in Wealden District.

The rate for Kent was 101.6 cases per 100,000 population.

SCOUTS HONOUR: Tunbridge Wells scouts raise thousands for homeless charity by sleeping in cardboard boxes P10

PROPERTY PULLOUT: Find out the latest on new housing developments plus tips on how to sell your home by Christmas in our Times property supplement P17

COMEDY CLASSIC: Trinity Theatre Club performs its latest stage adaptation of classic comedy ‘The Ladykillers’ P38

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS

MASKS RETURN TO TRUST DUE TO COVID SPIKE

Gynaecology (6,592), and General Surgery (6,055).

One day puppetry festival pulls in the crowds

By Lilly Croucher

AROUND 5,000 people flocked to Calverley Grounds at the weekend to see a life-sized whale and other aquatic curiosities thanks to the return of the Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival.

The normally biennial event staged a one-day spectacular on Saturday (October 15) with an under-the-sea theme following support from Royal Tunbridge Wells Together and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Themed

The centrepiece of the festival was an 18-metrelong sperm whale where puppet master, Circo Rum Ba Ba presented shows inside ‘The Whale’ throughout the afternoon.

The whale was also joined by ‘Ocho’, the giant Octopus and ‘Iso’ the prehistoric sea creature created by Tim Davies.

Art in the Park ran under-the-sea themed children’s workshops at Calverley Grounds and in the Royal Victoria Place shopping centre. The Trinity Youth Theatre also performed alongside pirates, sirens and seahorses.

Fireworks

By Richard Williams

TICKETS have gone on sale for the town’s largest annual event, with discount family tickets available for the first time to help affordability during the cost-of-living crisis.

The Dunorlan Park Fireworks have been illuminating the skies of Tunbridge Wells since 1957 and each year are organised by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Round Table.

The men’s organisation has raised hundreds of thousands for charity over the years thanks to the event, which sees more than 12,000 people attend each year.

Committee

The display has run in the town every year except 2020, when the Covid pandemic forced the cancellation of the event.

Local charities that have benefited from previous displays include Nourish, Mental Health Resource, Age UK and Hospice in the Weald.

This year, the fireworks are set to take place on November 5 itself and alongside the display itself in Dunorlan Park, which provides an amphitheatre to watch the fireworks, the Rock Choir have confirmed that they will be performing, the Tunbridge Wells Rugby Club is running the bar and there will be lots of food stalls to keep everyone fuelled.

Chairman of the Fireworks Committee at the Round Table, Simon Addis said: “We are delighted that the fireworks are back with a bang for our 65th

Last year’s festival saw over 15,000 puppetry fans descend on Calverley Grounds to see Luke Jerram’s ‘Museum of the Moon’, the largest outdoor art installation ever seen in Tunbridge Wells, at the time.

This year, over half of the puppets were larger than Jerram’s ‘Moon’ installation which measured seven metres in diameter.

The full Tunbridge Wells Puppetry festival returns for more family fun in 2023.

year.

“This is one of the flagship events held in the town every year and we are delighted to light up the skies over Tunbridge Wells, while raising thousands of pounds for local charities.

“We totally acknowledge the cost-of-living challenges and the pressure that this is having on us all, so despite increased costs across the board, we have introduced a range of family tickets at lower prices than 2021,” Mr Addis said.

“We want everyone to have a great time and encourage people to buy their tickets early.

“The Round Table are very grateful to our headline sponsors Buss Murton, as well as Berkeley Homes, GDS Surveyors, Specsavers and media sponsor the Times of Tunbridge Wells.”

HOW TO GET YOUR TICKETS

TICKETS for the 2022 Firework Display can be purchased now online at rtwrt.org or by the Millennium Clock at Fiveways between 10am and 4pm on October 22 and 29.

Advanced purchase prices are: adults, £10 and children, £6 – under 5s are free. Family tickets (booked in advance) include: two adults and one child, £20, two adults and two children, £25 and two adults and three children, £30.

Kent pupils receive grammar test results

MORE than 5,000 school pupils found out yesterday (Tuesday) if they had passed the Kent test, therefore allowing them access to one of the county’s grammar schools.

More than 17,000 children sat the test, which used to be called the 11+ exam. Around 5,500 of those sitting the test came from outside the county.

There were 5,147 pupils who passed and will now be allowed to apply for one of the 5,566 Kent grammar places in schools such as Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Girls, Weald of Kent and The Skinners’ School.

Secondary school applications for Kent residents are now open and will close on October 31 and places offered on National Offer Day, March 1 2023.

Shellina Prendergast, Kent County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Kent has a rich and diverse mix of high quality selective and non-selective schools so I would urge families whose child did not get the results they were hoping for not to worry and to look carefully at all options available to them before applying for a secondary school place.”

Jail for violent abuser

A TUNBRIDGE WELLS man who admitted subjecting a woman to repeated violent attacks leaving her with a broken nose, broken toe and widespread bruising has been jailed for two years and eight months.

Tommy Dunn, formerly of Liptraps Lane, had punched and elbowed the victim in the head before going outside to fetch a tree branch which he used to strike her arms and legs with. The 24-year-old also pinned the woman down and choked her with his hands.

Evidence showed Dunn had been abusive to the woman over a period spanning several months, as he sought to control everything she did.

Detective Inspector Christian Mayers of Kent Police’s Vulnerability Investigation Team said Dunn was a ‘violent bully’ adding: “I do hope the victim is able to take some reassurance now justice has at least been served and I would like to thank and commend her for the tremendous courage she has shown to assist our investigation.”

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Council’s flagship Amelia hub among buildings honoured by Civic Society

By Victoria Roberts

THE town’s arbiters of taste have honoured 11 architectural and public art projects in a bumper post-pandemic year that landed the Amelia Scott cultural hub two Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society (RTWCS) awards.

The annual ceremony, held at the Town Hall on Thursday evening (October 13), revealed the decisions of a panel of seven assessors, including architects, planners, ex-English Heritage and lay members, under panel Chairman Dr David Wright.

The Mayor, Cllr Godfrey Bland, presented certificates to the award winners, whose projects were whittled down from a shortlist of over 20.

The panellists praised The Amelia Scott cultural hub, which opened in Monson Road at the end of April, as ‘a beautiful shared space’ and ‘an outstanding addition to the town centre community and cultural scene’.

One of the cultural centre’s art commissions, the set of gates in the courtyard facing Monson Way also received a public art award.

Designed by Alex Fox, the six panels represent the history of ironmaking in the Weald from Roman times onwards.

The other piece of public art recognised last week was the water feature at 1887 The Pantiles, designed by Will Nash for the development’s owners Dandara.

Reference

The tall silver columns stand at the opposite end of The Pantiles from the Chalybeate Spring which gives Tunbridge Wells its name, and the design includes a visual reference to the ‘Tumbling Cube’ of Tunbridge Ware – the decorative woodwork that the area is famous for.

One major theme of the awards was extensions to existing buildings and addendums to the surrounding architecture, which saw the panellists praising projects such as Broadwater House in Broadwater Down.

“Open Architecture designed the impressive extensions to this Victorian house near the Eridge Road end of Broadwater Down,” they said.

“The new wings exactly match the existing building – a credit to the architects and builders.”

Another such award went to the ‘striking new wing’ of Greensleeves Care’s care home on Mount Ephraim.

“The modern design echoes the gables of the original 1840s mansion and has been executed to a very high standard. Renovation of the mansion is nearing completion and the care home will re-open in 2023,” said the panellists.

They also complimented Appleby Architects’ brownfield development at 24 Church Road, for ‘fitting very well with the surrounding properties’.

Yet the Civic Society’s panel stressed they would recognise stand-alone projects too, for example Forest Gate House on the Eridge Road.

“This stunning development of nine apartments in the Art Deco style was highly praised by the Awards Panel. In particular, the choice of hand-made bricks and high standard of workmanship was noted.”

Number 11 Nevill Park was ‘a beautifully designed and

substantial new home built on the site of a 1930’s house.

Regeneration projects also attracted praise.

Beau Property’s ‘Nevill Row’ project on Nevill Terrace stands in the place of a terrace of houses threatened with demolition in 1990, but permission was refused. Four of the houses have now been converted into eight duplex maisonettes, with the exterior ‘refurbished to a very high standard,’ the panellists noted (for more on Nevill Terrace see Business, page 9).

Process

The Phoenix Yard project in Park Road now stands on the site of a Victorian warehouse and other properties which were in the process of being developed when the warehouse was burned down in an arson attack in 2014.

The site was already a sensitive one, adjacent to Grade I-listed Woodbury Park, but the fire extended the planning process to seven years.

However, the mix of town houses and

apartments received very high scores by the panel.

Another regeneration, this one on part of the Travis Perkins site, was the ‘Tunnel Road Houses’ terrace.

The panellists said: “The award was given for the sensitive design and subtle variation of features of the houses by the architect.

Particular care was given to the massing of the development and the street scene as Tunnel Road is approached.”

FULL LIST OF RTWCS AWARDS

The Amelia Scott Cultural Hub

The Amelia Scott Courtyard Gates Broadwater House, Broadwater Down 24 Church Road, Clarence Row Forest Gate House

Mount Ephraim House

11 Nevill Park

Nevill Row, Nevill Terrace Phoenix Yard, Park Road

Road Houses

The Pantiles, Water Feature

AWARD The Amelia Scott (below) and its courtyard gates (inset) were honoured with Leader Ben Chapelard receiving the award on behalf of the Council (below)

MODERN Forest Gate House

SPRAWLING Broadwater House

Bus company slammed for scrapping a route leaving parent £500 out of pocket

By Sarah Carter

A TUNBRIDGE Wells parent who paid £500 for her son’s student bus pass this summer only to have his bus service cancelled in October has slammed the bus company and Kent County Council (KCC) for poor communication.

Travelling from his home in Park Ward to Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys (TWGSB), Liz Hawker’s son needed a KCC 16+ Travel Saver, with a deadline of July 31 to buy it.

Families who had previously held a student bus pass were contacted over the summer with details of the deadline and the services which would be continuing.

Walking

However, she said, just over two months later, the 257 Arriva bus stopped service on October 3, and her son has not found a practical combination of buses to replace it, meaning he is now walking 2.7 miles to school.

Ms Hawker said she could understand bus operators withdrawing services which were not commercially viable.

“But the thing that really irritates me is that neither KCC nor Arriva used the data they had for these families to communicate,” she told the Times

“There were no signs on bus stops or anything practical – then on October 3, the bus didn’t run.”

She also said her son’s school TWGSB – the end point of the 257 – had not been contacted, either.

“It’s all pretty poor.”

Cllr Justine Rutland, who holds the portfolio for Tunbridge Wells Town and Local Areas, took

up the case and has been liaising with KCC and bus operator Arriva.

She told the Times ‘a meeting is in the works’ with operators to discuss services.

Arriva Kent was one of the employers at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s job fair last week (October 11).

Arriva told the Times the decision to scrap the 257 was ‘Kent County Council (KCC) led’.

A KCC spokesperson said: “Passengers should

CRITICISM Liz Hawker (inset) who paid £500 for her son’s bus pass only for Arriva to scrap the route

always check the latest travel information with their relevant operator.

“We have always been clear with parents that purchasing a Kent Travel Saver card does not guarantee the service will always be available.

“If changes to a service mean customers no longer consider their Kent Travel Saver to be good value, then we would encourage them to contact us directly.”

BRIEF

Man stands trial for the murder of two women

THE trial of a man accused of murdering two women, one of which was last seen at a petrol station in Cranbook, has begun at Hove Crown Court.

Mark Brown, 41, of Squirrel Close in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, has denied murdering Alexandra Morgan, 34, and Leah Ware, 33.

Ms Morgan, from Sissinghurst in Tunbridge Wells, was last seen putting petrol in her car at a garage in Cranbrook on the morning of November 14 last year.

The court heard Miss Morgan was a sex worker and had arranged to meet Brown at farm near Hastings, East Sussex.

Her remains were later found at a building site near Sevenoaks, where Brown was working at the time of her disappearance.

Miss Ware, a mother-of-three from Hastings, East Sussex, was last seen by a friend in the early hours of May 6 2021.

Miss Ware lived at the same farm as Brown but her body has never been found.

The trial is set to run until mid-November.

Fallen are remembered

THE Tunbridge Wells Royal British Legion (RBL) is hosting a talk tonight (October 19), by local historian Richard Snow about his book ‘Ten Good Men and True’.

Covering recipients of the Victoria Cross who took part in conflicts from the Crimean War to World War II in all branches of the armed forces, the talk will take place at 4pm after the RBL branch AGM, in Crabb Hall, Christ Church.

The talk is open to all and free of charge, although any donations to the RBL Branch are gratefully received. Contact johncohen1946@ gmail.com to reserve a place.

Plans for Christmas?

Unemployment on the rise despite record vacancies due to shift to Universal Credit

Childrensalon creates short film to celebrate 70-year anniversary

JOB MARKET Tonbridge Jobcentre and [inset] Neil Simmons

By Victoria Roberts

THE number of people out of work in Tunbridge Wells rose last month, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released last week, despite record vacancies in the town.

Tunbridge Wells recorded 1,640 claimants in September, up 1.9 per cent since August, and representing a 2.3 per cent claimant rate.

This compared to claimant rates of 2.9 and 3.7 per cent for the South East and Great Britain (excluding Northern Ireland).

Peaked

Unemployment had been falling since the end of the Covid crisis, when it peaked to more than 3,000 claimants, but it has failed to return to pre-pandemic levels.

In March 2020 there were just 1,130 people claiming unemployment benefit in the borough

of Tunbridge Wells, but the ONS has said that the reason jobless figures haven’t returned to the same levels as before the Covid crisis is the change from Job Seeker’s Allowance to Universal Credit.

“Under Universal Credit, a broader span of claimants are required to look for work than under Jobseeker’s Allowance,” the ONS said.

“As Universal Credit Full Service is rolled out in particular areas, the number of people recorded as being on the claimant count is therefore likely to rise.”

Recruitment Consultant, Neil Simmons of TN Recruits said that ‘vacancies in the area were still high’.

“In Tunbridge Wells, there are still lots of vacancies coming through,” he said.

“It’s still a challenge to find the right candidate for the right role, but this plays into our hands, since we have the resources and can dig deeper than our clients.”

Tunbridge Wells’ NatWest safe from latest round of closures

THE TUNBRIDGE Wells branch of NatWest has been spared in the bank’s latest round of closures that will see 43 branches across the UK shut for good.

While NatWest confirmed last week that the 89 Mount Pleasant branch is set to remain open, the bank in the High Street, Tonbridge has not been so lucky and has been earmarked to close.

The UK’s second-biggest lender blamed the rise in online banking for the latest raft of closures

that have made counter services redundant.

NatWest said average counter transactions had shrunk by nearly two-thirds in just two years to January 2022.

The bank also said it had seen a 39 per cent rise in customers using mobile apps during the same period.

The latest closures add to the 32 announced back in February, which included 11 of its Royal Bank of Scotland branches.

By Lilly Croucher

TUNBRIDGE WELLS childrenswear retailer, Childrensalon is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a series of special projects which launched last month.

The company was established in 1952 by Rene and Sybil Harriman and has been working with 240 childrenswear designers and exclusive own-brand collections to dress children for seven decades.

Produced

Childrensalon is one of the largest companies in Tunbridge Wells, with 400 employees, and mostly trades online from their base in Kingstanding Way.

To celebrate their seven decades of business, the retailer has created a short film.

Directed by Rebecca Manley and produced by Starling Film, the 40-second piece shows five children of different ages dressed in clothes from the Childrensalon.

The film hopes to convey the company’s vision of ‘dressing children beautifully through every stage of their life’.

Ms Manley said: “Working with children, I wanted to show them in a dynamic way so the

clothes have to be shown in motion… [I wanted to] represent freshness and all the things that you associate with childhood and wholesomeness – but sparky at the same time and with bright colours.”

Childrensalon has also invited world-famous childrenswear brands to collaborate on a 70-hour online charity auction.

All proceeds from the auction will be donated between three charities: Nourish, Porridge & Pens and Sistah Space, supported by The Childrensalon Foundation.

The auction hosts over 50 collectible lots, from one-of-a-kind pieces to stunning illustrations from brands, Moncler, Monnalisa and Mini Rodini. Bidding for the auction opened on October 4.

Asher S. Harriman-Smith, Childrensalon Co-Chairman, said: “As a member of our founding family, I have grown up with Childrensalon.

“I am proud that what makes us different – our unique recipe of family, heritage, creativity and innovation first pioneered by my grandmother Sybil Harriman – continues to shine through in our 70th year.

“I hope that the exciting launches, projects and personal touches that we have planned this month will continue to inspire and delight our customers and their children around the world.”

Property developer shortlisted for Nevill Row project

By Robert Forrester

BOUTIQUE developer Beau Property, has been shortlisted for a national housebuilding award.

The family business, from Tunbridge Wells, is shortlisted for ‘best restoration project’ for its Nevill Row development.

They are up against household names including Barratt Homes, Taylor Wimpey and Weston Homes.

Exteriors

The project of eight, two-bedroom Victorianstyle houses, launched in May 2022 and sold out within two weeks.

The development was named one of the Sunday Times ‘Lustworthy Homes of the Week’ and received an award from the Royal Tunbridge Wells Civic Society (see page 6).

Beau Property aimed to restore the original features of the Victorian exteriors back to their former glory and create modern, bright, living spaces.

Director Chris Hammond said: “We are honoured that our small business has been recognised alongside the likes of Barratt Homes

and Taylor Wimpey for a national housebuilding accolade.

“This feels like an amazing achievement and is testament to our brilliant team who work together to curate homes of real quality, whether a restoration, refurbishment or new build.

“Nevill Row was a real passion project for us, with a lot of careful attention paid to every detail, from the prominence of the location to the strong heritage features.

“We were delighted to see every home sell immediately post launch, in a similar way to our recent projects at Castle Street and Knowle Close.

Excited

“We now have a strong waiting list of potential buyers looking specifically for a Beau Property home, too, so we are excited to say that we have a number of projects in the pipeline locally,” Mr Hammond explained.

“We will be announcing these in due course, but in the meantime, interested parties can follow our journey on Instagram, or get in touch directly.”

The awards will take place in early November.

FINALIST The Nevill Row development in Tunbridge Wells

PLATINUM ANNIVERSARY A still from the birthday film

Village film festival attracts entries from around the world

By Victoria Roberts

A FILM festival in Rusthall at the weekend attracted more than 250 short-film festival entries from 47 different countries.

Organised by the Rusthall Community Cinema (RCC), the Rusthall Film Festival (October 15-16), grew out of a short-film project and attracted movie makers from around the world to enter the event, which was live-streamed across the globe.

RCC sponsored the workshops and festival prizes – £100 for Festival Favourite, £25 for Category Winner and £10 for those shorts selected for screening.

The festival included a special session on Sunday showcasing Iranian and Afghan films under the banner ‘A Quiet Revolution: Exploring Contemporary Iranian cinema’.

Editing

Among the films shown at the festival in Rusthall was Michael Lawrence’s ‘Where Am I Now’, based on his drawings and illustrations for the 2021 community play ‘Happy Highways’, about World War II refugees welcomed to Rusthall.

He told the Times: “When I first heard that an international film festival of non-commercial movies was to be inaugurated by the Rusthall Community Cinema, I was greatly inspired to support the venture.”

Battling against an unexpected deterioration in his sight since the beginning of the year, the local artist was unable to use timeline editing software to create his film.

However, he persisted, and with the use of iMovie’s trailer-making templates, he compiled a series of his drawings and illustrations into a one-and-a-half-minute video, which was selected for screening on the Saturday of the festival.

“The video is not a movie and is only 1 1/2 minutes long, so I was greatly surprised and

WHERE I AM NOW

delighted when I was informed it had been chosen for inclusion in the festival weekend,” he said.

Recognition at the festival was also a major coup for Peter Gilbert, whose ‘Groombridge 1933: Views from the Stationmaster’s House’ film was ‘commended’ by judges.

He explained: “The film was actually completed many years ago and the original

80-year-old, 16mm material – with a soundtrack on cassette tape – was first shown at our own railway film evening in 2001.

“I have been involved with many amateur film festivals and must admit that I did not realise that Rusthall was appealing to such worldwide professional entries.

“So it does mean a lot that our efforts have been recognised.”

Starlight walk raises money for Hospice

WALKERS in the Hospice in the Weald’s annual Starlight Stroll created a six-mile constellation of lanterns between Pembury and Dunorlan Park at the weekend.

Setting out from Hospice in the Weald in Pembury at 7pm on Saturday (October 15), hundreds of walkers lit up the road as they walked to and from Dunorlan Park.

At the end of the walk, supporters set down their lanterns in the Hospice gardens by the labyrinth and spend a moment there remembering loved ones.

One returning supporter is Carol, of Edenbridge, who did the fundraising walk with her grandchildren last year in memory of her husband, Stephen, who died in the Hospice in May 2020.

Carol is a volunteer marshal for the Stroll this year, and said: “People should sign up to do the Starlight Stroll because it’s directly supporting people like me and Stephen who need help navigating difficult circumstances like terminal cancer.

“Losing someone is hard but I can’t begin to think how awful these last years would have been without the support of the Hospice. They have been there since Stephen’s diagnosis and never left.”

Knitters seek wool

A TONBRIDGE knitting group which provides comfort blankets in the local area is calling for wool donations to help them keep up their production of creature comforts for cats.

Celia Mahoney and her group of 12 knitters meet every Wednesday at The Angel Indoors Bowls Club in Tonbridge, and knit hundreds of blankets for Cats Protection each year.

He has been a member of the Spa Valley Railway since 1985 when the line was closed and has been filming its progress ever since.

His film festival submission includes 16mm cinefilm footage donated in 2000 by Grace Williams, who lived at the stationmaster’s house as a young girl when her father Walter Tapsell held the role.

Taekwon-Do squad punches above its weight with an eight-medal haul

three silver and four bronze medals.

By Sarah Carter

RETURNING from an international competition with eight medals for a squad of seven has been declared a triumph for the Tunbridge Wells Taekwon-Do club.

The team of seven was competing in the Eighth ITF World Cup in Koper, Slovenia, a club-based tournament which allows athletes of all levels to participate, as participants only face competitors of their own age, weight, sex and grade.

Club

It was the first World Cup for six out of the seven squad members, said the local club.

Coach Luke Thompson said: “For such a small team, we did amazingly well, getting one gold,

“A special mention should go to Luke Forte, now World Cup Champion! A fantastic performance that had the crowd clapping and cheering.”

Luke returned with a gold and bronze, while Naomi Sweeney won two silvers and a bronze. Donna Rye took silver and bronze, and Jake Smith a bronze.

The athletes were supported in Slovenia by a team of three fans who travelled to the event to cheer.

Meanwhile a ‘home team’ of local business sponsors and fundraisers – TCW Solutions, Supervene Architects and West Kent Freemasons – had kitted out the club with tracksuits, t-shirts, doboks (uniforms) and safety equipment.

Susan Day, treasurer of the Tunbridge Wells branch, said: “Each year the Tunbridge Wells, Crowborough & District Branch rehomes more than one hundred cats, and each cat takes their blanket with them, as it helps to make them feel secure and at home from the start.”

Wool donations can be sent to Celia Mahoney c/o The Angel Indoor Bowls Club, Ave Du Puy, Tonbridge TN9 1QH. If you would like to help Cats Protection, adopt a cat, or need advice about neutering, contact 01892 516377 or visit cats.org. uk/uckfield

Scouts raise £4,000 for homeless charity

SCOUT groups across Tunbridge Wells raised more than £4,000 for homeless charity Porchlight, by sleeping in cardboard boxes.

The 200 scouts, aged between eight and 15, constructed their cardboard shelters and slept in them overnight on Friday October 7, at the Adamswell campsite in Langton Green.

Nick Burgess, the District Scout Commissioner said: “From the youngest Cub Scout aged eight to the teenaged Explorer Scout they made some great shelters and enjoyed the campfire and the hot sausage rolls provided by Leaders for breakfast.”

During the construction, the scouts were visited by Sir Keith Mills, a Deputy Lieutenant of Kent who was impressed by the scouts’ enthusiasm

and ingenuity with the building of their shelters. He also donated to the charity in recognition of the most creative shelter.

Support

The scouts were also visited by Patrick Fuller, a trustee for Porchlight who said: “The money raised by Tunbridge Wells [scouts] was nearly half the amount raised by the rest of the scout county, where six other groups took part.”

Porchlight is Kent’s leading homeless charity, providing housing and support services for those sleeping on the street.

In Kent, is estimated that there are at least 70 people sleeping rough on any single night.

PETER Gilbert’s film is the end-result of a decades-long project of preservation, compilation, creation and editing.

ADDING TO HERITAGE ON FILM

A film by partially-sighted artist Michael Lawrence

Liz Truss now as unpopular among Tory membership as Vladimir Putin

A SNAP poll of Tory members has found as many people in the party think Liz Truss is doing a bad job as PM – which is a similar percentage of people in the UK who dislike Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The poll of party members by YouGov on Monday and Tuesday saw more than half respond that she should resign and 83 per cent say she was doing a bad job.

Just 15 per cent of those polled said she was doing well and 2 per cent were unsure.

A similar YouGov poll on President Putin this summer showed that the Russian premier was disliked by 84 per cent of the British public following his invasion of Ukraine.

Quit

YouGov have also reported that of the 530 members surveyed this week, only 38 per cent back Liz Truss staying on, while 39 per cent of those who voted for Ms Truss in the Tory leadership race said she should quit.

Boris Johnson, three months after he was forced to resign after a series of scandals, was favourite to succeed her on 32 per cent, with former chancellor Rishi Sunak second on 23 per cent and then Defence Secretary Ben Wallace in third on 10 per cent.

The poll is not large enough to be considered representative of the wider membership, but YouGov’s research has frequently given a good indication of its mood in the past.

The Prime Minister will hold talks with the European Research Group of Tory MPs later on Tuesday as she seeks support from her own MPs.

Downing Street insisted the Cabinet fully supported the Prime Minister and stressed that Ms Truss was focused on the challenges facing

the country rather than party infighting.

Asked whether Ms Truss was concerned about ministers discussing replacing her, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “Her view is she needs to be focused on what is right for the country rather than on any internal discussions among the party at the moment.

Election

“She is conscious that these are globally difficult times and the UK is in a difficult situation economically.”

Earlier this week, the PM apologised for the mistakes she made over the ill-fated mini-budget and has declared she intends to lead the Conservative Party into the next general election, although ultimately that may not be her choice if MPs move against her.

Tory MPs are reluctant to have another leadership contest among the Conservative membership, something that could take months and further damage the party’s reputation.

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves said the UK is now a ‘global laughing stock’ and the nation has ‘lost its way’ under Ms Truss.

She told BBC Breakfast: “It is not enough just to get through – we should be thriving and leading the world as a country.”

On Monday, Mr Hunt reversed almost all of the tax cuts his predecessor, Kwasi Kwarteng, announced in September’s mini-budget in an attempt to reassure the markets that the Government will take a responsible approach to the public finances.

He put MPs on notice that there will be decisions of ‘eye-watering difficulty’ to come on tax and spending.

Dartford crossing is shut for second day

KENT’s Dartford Crossing remained blocked by Just Stop Oil protesters for the second day in a row yesterday (Tuesday).

The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex, was closed on Monday after it was scaled by two climbers from the group.

The environmental activist group has demanded that the Government ‘halts all new oil and gas licences and consents’ and said the climbers will remain on top of the bridge until they are ‘brought down’.

National Highways said it has no estimation of when the bridge will reopen and that there are about six miles of congestion on either side of the crossing.

Resolve

A spokesperson for Essex Police said: “We’re working with our partners to identify the safest and quickest way to resolve the situation. But as you can imagine, they’re 100 metres up in the air. It’s very complex. These things can take time.”

Morgan, a civil engineer from London who is one of the protesters who scaled the bridge, said in a video published on Twitter on Tuesday morning: “We just survived the first night up here. I was pretty cold, didn’t sleep much but I’m OK.

“We’re up here until the Government makes a meaningful statement to cancel all new licences and consents for oil and gas extraction. Oil and gas are killing us now and it’s driving millions into poverty this winter.

“We have to have an emergency transition to renewable energy, quite a stable, affordable energy. We’ve got to pay for that transition using the profits of the oil and the gas industry and the rich.

“Now is the moment for civil resistance. Come and do what you can at this pivotal moment in history.

BELEAGUERED Liz Truss in the Commons this week

St Gregory’s Catholic School has welcomed new Academy Principal Phil Byrne has started his new role at the secondary school, which is rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and located in Reynolds Lane in Tunbridge Wells…

St Gregory’s Catholic School says it is ‘delighted’ to welcome Phil Byrne as its new Academy Principal.

Mr Byrne replaces Sean McQuillan, who retired at the end of the summer term after 17 years at the school, which is based in Reynolds Lane. With more than 21 years’ experience in secondary education, Mr Byrne joins the co-educational school after spending seven years as a Deputy Headteacher in an ‘outstanding’ Catholic school in West Sussex.

Commenting on his appointment to the post, Mr Byrne said: “I am delighted and honoured to be the new Academy Principal at St Gregory’s Catholic School.

Support

“I am keen to get to know the students, staff and parents. St Gregory’s has a history of success and excellence and I firmly believe that I have a duty and responsibility to ensure we give our children the very best life chance through a fantastic education. I will strive for this in all we do at St Gregory’s, from the day-to-day routines and expectations, to seeking the best opportunities for our students to flourish and achieve.”

Reflecting on his former experience at

both St Paul’s Catholic College and a large comprehensive in Brighton, Mr Byrne added: “I have learnt to value the bond between home and school. I know that a happy and successful school will depend on us working together with our parents and families.”

As part of this ethos, Mr Byrne has already started to host a number of events in school to encourage this successful partnership. Throughout this term, St Gregory’s is

presenting Year Group Information Evenings, where parents can meet staff and

gain information to help them support their child’s education. A new monthly ‘Open Door’ session also welcomes parents into school to meet Mr Byrne and discuss any concerns.

Community

Talking about his plans for the future, Mr Byrne stated: “I am looking forward to finding out more about the school, the students and families so that the changes are made to ensure the school moves forward and is supported by the school community.

“I have been so impressed with our students and how they are adapting to the new academic year with a new Principal. We have a fantastic school, with superb facilities to enhance their education.

“Above all else, I wish for the students at St Gregory’s to be happy and successful, and to be able to achieve their full potential. We are committed to having St Gregory’s as one of the highest-achieving schools in the area. We have a brilliant group of staff who teach with great passion and enthusiasm, whilst supporting the students with love and kindness. We know it is our duty to assist our students to achieve their very best and to provide them the greatest opportunity to be successful.”

Sell with Gorringe’s this Season

‘We know it is our duty to assist our students to achieve their very best and to provide them the greatest opportunity to be successful’

HEAD START Phil Byrne and some of his St Gregory’s pupils

Jack Charles P29

– P19

The Burrows – P24

HELLO, are YOU…

Tunbridge Wells housing market slows after 10% annual growth

THERE is not quite the rush of buyers that there was earlier in the year when buyers were fighting over new properties, an estate agency has claimed.

Kings Estates, based on Mount Pleasant Road, says over the last two years, Tunbridge Wells has seen unprecedented house-price growth of at least 10 per cent per year, and with the average house price now over £500,000, this means the average house in the town increased by nearly £1,000 every week over the last two years.

But the estate agency says things have now ‘calmed’ and demand for houses in Tunbridge Wells has slowed.

A spokesperson for King Estates said: “This rapid house-price growth had to calm at some point and the catalyst for this has been the energy price hikes, the cost-of-living crisis and interest rate rises.

“We have recently noticed the demand for houses in the town has now slowed slightly, however the supply of good houses for sale is still very low, so this is keeping prices stable.

“For some buyers, particularly first-time buyers who can save up to £8,750 with the stamp duty exemption announced in the governments mini-budget, now is still a good time to buy. Buyers are telling us that they would prefer to

buy now whilst their monthly mortgage repayments are relatively affordable, rather than waiting until next year when they are likely to face larger mortgage repayments if interest rates rise further,” the spokesperson explained.

“Going forward, sellers and their agents will

have to work harder to achieve sales, but with the very best marketing and sensible pricing, we still feel the demand for houses in the town will remain stable and hopefully we can continue to help people get moved to their dream homes.”

For more details, visit: kings-estates.co.uk

SJD offers new pre-application planning service

A LAND and development consultancy in Tunbridge Wells has introduced a pre-application service to help increase the chances of a positive planning outcome.

SJD, based in St John’s Road, said: “Working with our planners and architects, we are offering a dedicated pre-app service to determine the thoughts and opinions of the local council.

Proposal

“Any proposed development would require a written proposal to be submitted to the council, in advance of any formal planning application.

“The council will give feedback, citing policies and providing advice that will have a bearing on the outcome of any application. This will enable the applicant to make any amendments before a formal proposal is submitted.

“Based upon the advice of the council, our team can submit a scheme more likely to be considered favourably. A pre-app is not publicly recorded anywhere and therefore the information remains confidential.

“A typical pre-app will include a written statement by the planner and a basic scheme provided by the architect. If necessary, other reports and surveys can be provided.”

Interested parties should contact SJD at: office@sjd-estates.com

Mortgages that work for

without the hard work

‘Tunbridge Wells has seen unprecedented house price growth of at least 10 per cent per year, and with the average house price now over £500,000’

AGENCY

The Kings Estates team

Get top mortgage tips from the local banking experts

HANDELSBANKEN, the Swedish banking company that has been operating in Tunbridge Wells for almost 14 years, has provided some advice for mortgage hunters.

The company says its customers appreciate its personal approach due to each branch operating as a local business.

Offering

Nigel Baldwin, Private Banking Manager & Mortgage Advisor said: “Part of our offering and an important aspect on which we have built our business here in Tunbridge Wells since 2008, is the provision of personal mortgages.

“Whether you are looking for your first home, moving to a new home or need to considering a re-mortgage, 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 in the whole property purchase process.

“The mortgage application process with lenders is actually quite straightforward, but we have useful advice if you’re re-mortgaging or applying for your first home loan.”

For more information about the bank, visit: handelsbanken.co.uk

• Do a bit of research about the types of mortgage which are available. This will help you ask better questions when it comes to speaking to a mortgage adviser. For example, there are ways to protect against increasing interest rates through fixed-rate mortgages. If you choose a whole-of-market mortgage adviser, all options will be explained and discussed in detail with you.

• Be prepared to provide detailed information and evidence of your income, (consider whether you have multiple or complex income streams), expenditure, assets and other liabilities. This allows a mortgage provider to fully understand your financial position and therefore be able to properly assess the current and future mortgage affordability.

• The sooner you start the mortgage process the better, because you will then be aware of what is and isn’t affordable as well as how much you actually are prepared to commit to a mortgage payment each month. This can be challenging and will need to be given serious thought, especially in the current interest rate environment

A LOCAL public relations firm has said businesses should be focused on 2023 at this time of year and not Christmas.

Laura Gibson, Director at Calvermont, which is based in Tunbridge Wells, said: “Some of our clients are well into planning their marketing and communication strategies, together with budgets for 2023.

“This is a clever move to make, because while things are slowing down in December, your PR and marketing advisors can be getting content drafted and ready to hit the ground running in the New Year.

Opportunities

“This gets businesses ahead of the game and means that your brand profile is taken care of, enabling your team get pursue new opportunities,” Ms Gibson said.

Soon to be celebrating its fourth birthday, Calvermont has built up a roster of property and destination clients – local, national and international.

Their diverse service ranges from brand design and creative, to business strategy, marketing and comms plans, to PR, community engagement, crisis management and content, all of which cover both online and offline.

Most recently the company launched a new brand and narrative for the Government Property Agency, secured national coverage for clients including Cluttons, GRID Properties and local designer Sofie Hepworth, and landed major property features for Turkey Mill business park and life science developer, Lateral.

The team is also working on a number of exciting announcements and campaigns for local boutique house builder Beau Property, architect Southstudio and interior specialist Ven Morgan.

For more information contact: studio@ calvermont.com.

Business should focus on 2023, not Christmas ‘Paddock Wood is Kent’s best-kept secret’

A UK HOUSE builder has branded Paddock Wood as ‘Kent’s best-kept secret’

Countryside Partnerships, which is building the exclusive new development, ‘The Burrows’, in the Tunbridge Wells town says Paddock Wood boasts an idyllic position in the heart of the Kent countryside.

“Offering the best of both worlds, the town is surrounded by picturesque countryside, yet remains within easy reach of London, providing the perfect location to settle down for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city,” a spokesperson for the company said.

Commuters

“Ideal for commuters, Paddock Wood station offers regular services to London Charing Cross in under an hour.

“Meanwhile, neighbouring towns including lively Tonbridge and vibrant Tunbridge Wells are within very close proximity, each with a wide range of amenities and impressive retail and cultural offerings, from boutiques, art galleries and museums through to atmospheric restaurants and bars,” the spokesperson added.

The developer said that ‘The Burrows’ offers a ‘unique opportunity to live in the heart of this attractive town and its range of beautifully-designed two, three, four and five-bedroom homes are surrounded by countryside peppered with orchards, providing a lovely location to cycle and walk around.’

With prices starting from £440,000 for a threebedroom terraced house, those interested in Paddock Wood and ‘The Burrows’ should visit: countrysidepartnerships.com

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Jack Charles opens its new agency in Tunbridge Wells

SJM Planning offers representation in Local Plan consultations

LOCAL Planning Authorities (LPAs) are required to maintain up-to-date Local Plans which contain the strategic and detailed planning policies required to manage growth within their area, during a particular time frame (normally 15-20 years.)

Public consultation is a critical part of the Local Plan-making process. LPAs are required to reach out to local residents through the various consultation stages to enable them to voice their views.

Complex

An East Peckham-based planning consultancy says it can offer representation in response to Local Plan consultations, on your behalf.

A spokesperson for SJM Planning said: “Sometimes the Local Plan process can appear complex to someone with limited experience in the sector.

“SJM Planning would however encourage local residents and individuals to respond to Local Plan consultations when contacted by LPAs, as this is the only way that LPAs can ascertain the full range of needs and opinions of their residents.

A TONBRIDGE-based letting agents has opened a new agency in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells.

The new office is based in London Road in the town, and is aimed at finding the right properties for clients in Tunbridge Wells, including in leafy Broadwater Down, where they have a smart one-bedroom apartment becoming available soon for £1,000 pcm.

Shaun Kidd, one of the co-founders of Jack Charles, explained that while the market is

experiencing a level of economic uncertainty at present, they remain committed to investing further in the town and establishing themselves as one of the leading sales and lettings agents.

Story

Shaun shared his own story of selling his family home and moving into a rental property, following the uncertainty of redundancy risk, during the last financial crisis.

“We had decided this was the right time to relocate back to Kent with our daughter and the gloomy headlines suggested the timing was perfect to secure an absolute bargain,” he said.

“However, discounted properties simply didn’t come on to the market in any meaningful volume and when confidence returned many months later, prices appeared higher.”

For more information about rental properties in Tunbridge Wells, contact the agency at: lettings@jackcharles.co.uk

Response

“SJM Planning can make representations in response to Local Plan consultations on your behalf, either as an individual or as part of a residents or community group. Please contact us if you would like further information and SJM Planning would be more than happy to assist.”

For more information about the service, contact: SJMplanning.com

Five things to do now if you want to sell your home by Christmas

AS WE hurtle towards the end of the year, many of us will be thinking about how to tie up loose ends – and for some, that means selling their home by Christmas.

According to property website HomeOwners Alliance’s ‘find an estate agent’ service, last year it took homes an average of 52 days to sell –meaning you’ll want to get yours on the market by early November for the best chance of closing a deal by December 25.

“There’s no doubt things are getting tougher for sellers,” says Jonathan Rolande, property expert at House Buy Fast (housebuyfast.co.uk). “For years, it was a case of ‘stick the property online and wait for the queue of buyers’. Not so now. But the market is holding strong – sellers and their estate agents just have to try a bit harder.”

Once you’ve got your home on the market, there are a few things you can do to boost your chance of selling by Christmas Day…

1. Put a ‘for sale’ board up This might seem like an old school way of selling a home, but Rolande says: “You’ll be surprised how many enquiries they generate, even in these online times.”

2. Maximise your online presence “Speak to your agent about social media advertising – it’s cheap and very effective,” advises Rolande.

He also recommends making sure your online listing is as attractive as possible, adding: “If you’ve been on the market for a while, update the photos. Scorched summer lawns aren’t a good look in October!”

According to Gus Harding, founder and property expert at Harding Mortgages (hardingmortgages. com), as well as good quality photos, ‘video tours can also be helpful for a quicker sale’.

3. Make your home look as appealing as possible “First and foremost, ensure your property is in

good condition inside and out. This means repairing any damage, fixing any issues, and generally just making sure everything looks its best,” says Harding.

To really make your place look attractive, Rolande says: “Make sure the place looks clean, tidy and uncluttered.

“Plant some winter colour in pots by the front door and on the patio or balcony, if you have one.”

4. Consider the price

Rolande suggests doing a bit of market research, checking the price bands on Rightmove and other online portals. “If need be, adjust your price accordingly,” he says.

And if you do receive offers on your home, Harding recommends a bit of flexibility. “Be prepared to negotiate on price,” he says. “If you’re realistic about what your property is worth, you’re more likely to sell it quickly – even if it means accepting a slightly lower offer than you were hoping for.”

5. Get a solicitor involved early on “Most people go on the market, find a buyer, then need to rush to get a solicitor on board. This causes stress and delays,” says Rolande, who recommends getting a solicitor to begin work as soon as possible.

“Solicitors need to do checks before they can begin anything, and this takes time. Searches can also take a long time to receive, weeks sometimes. They last three months, so getting your lawyer to do them now saves time when your buyer needs them.

“A quick legal look at things like the title, leases and rights-of-way disputes can rectify any issues before they arise. Again saving time.

“The market is holding steady, for now. Once a buyer is found, you want to complete quickly – the longer things take, the more chance of a fall through. And that’s not something on anyone’s Christmas list.”

AVAILABLE

One of the Jack Charles properties in the town

Photo © Penny Young Photography

Photo © Tom Jeavons

Photo © Tom Jeavons

Photo © Penny Young Photography

Fay Andrea Photography

Photo © Tom Jeavons

Photo © Fay Andrea Photography

Photo © Penny Young Photography

Photo

Tom Jeavons

Photo © Tom Jeavons

Matthew Scott Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent

Men are also victims of domestic abuse

SUPPORT for tackling violence against women and girls and making our communities safer has rightly been a focus for Police and Crime Commissioners.

However, it is not commonly known that the Government strategy for this also includes support for men and boys.

In November, there are two campaigns taking place designed to raise awareness of the issues faced by men and boys and give them the confidence to seek the help they need.

Services

On Wednesday 2 November, the Mankind Initiative domestic abuse charity launches the first #MenYouAreNotAlone campaign. This encourages organisations who work with victims of crime to promote the services they offer.

Since I was elected in 2016, I have been privileged to work with the local charity DAVSS. If you are a man and think you are experiencing domestic abuse, you can contact them for specialist help and support. You can call 01892 570538 or email them at men@davss.org.uk.

I also work with another award-winning charity called Dads Unlimited, and their Save DAVE service. DAVE stands for a Domestic

RECORD NUMBER OF NEW RECRUITS BEGIN TRAINING

KENT Police has welcomed a record number of new recruits to commence their training.

A total of 124 trainee officers enrolled at the force’s dedicated training college on Monday 10 October 2022, the largest monthly intake ever recorded in Kent.

As they start their careers with Kent Police, the newest recruits are joining an extremely dedicated team of officers, staff and volunteers who are focused on protecting our communities and putting victims at the heart of everything we do.

Their first week of training includes an introduction to the policing role and the high standards expected of officers before moving onto the basics of evidence capture with an

Abuse Victim Empowerment service, which provides confidential advice, impartial support and advocacy for male victims of domestic abuse in Kent and Medway. You can contact them via 01233 680160 or visit www.SaveDAVE. org.uk.

And on Saturday 19 November, we recognise International Men’s Day, which this year has

the theme of better help for men and boys. There are many pressures facing men and boys - mental health; physical health and life expectancy; education outcomes; and access to support as victims of domestic and sexual abuse. There is a higher rate of men taking their own lives than women.

International Men’s Day – which last year was

supported by 400 organisations across the country – is therefore an opportunity for the public sector, charities, employers and others to share resources on the help that is available and encourage men and boys to come forward.

Advice

In addition to the services mentioned above, Kent County Council’s Release the Pressure service is available 24/7 to help anybody with their mental health.

They offer free, expert advice on a variety of issues that you might need help with. You don’t need to suffer in silence. Text the word Kent to 85258 or phone 0800 107 0160 for free confidential support at any time.

With a great deal of valuable work continuing to support women and girls, now is the time for the Government to commit to a separate “men and boys’ strategy” – so all victims can get the bespoke funding and support they need.

Finally, I am currently running a survey to seek your views on what the next Chief Constable of Kent Police should focus on and what qualities you think they should have.

It is anonymous and will help me set Kent Police’s future direction. You can fill this out at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/PCC2022

In Conservative Britain the rich are getting richer

WHILE Liz Truss has been trying to cut taxes for the wealthiest, more and more people across the UK are resorting to foodbanks. Here in the town, we read in last week’s Times of Tunbridge Wells that the Nourish Community Foodbank is struggling to meet demand as rising energy bills and the cost of living hit families already struggling.

Then later in the same edition, the motoring section highlights an £8,400 rear seat option for a £200,000 luxury SUV to make the back seats more comfortable. Don’t these contrasting articles perfectly summarise the Conservative vision of Britain?

Delegates

Contrast this with the Green Party Conference in Harrogate where delegates voted for a progressive tax on the richest one per cent of households to fund a nationwide insulation and renewable energy programme, creating warmer, more comfortable homes and bringing bills down for good.

A ‘dirty profits tax’ on North Sea oil and gas has 94% public support and would help accelerate the transition to cleaner, cheaper renewable energy. Better for the environment and better for struggling families. Isn’t a Wellbeing Economy the humane alternative?

Having a Green voice locally can help make these ambitions become a reality, you only have to look at what Greens are doing across the South East.

Bus services are essential to the support of rural and suburban communities and Green councillors in Kent are leading the charge to protect the 56 bus routes across the county under threat of the axe by operators leaving

parents worrying about how their children will get to school.

Green-led Lewes District Council are setting out an ambitious plan to tackle the shocking state of badly insulated homes by retrofitting social housing at a large scale thereby delivering warmer homes, green jobs and lower carbon emissions at the same time making it accessible for all households.

In Maidstone, it’s the Green Party that’s challenging the creation of an ‘Investment Zone’ in Kent the result of which will be the scrapping of planning laws to allow building on precious green spaces across the county flying in the face of the ecological emergency.

Injustices

Given all this, it’s not surprising that local people have had enough of the excesses of the Conservative party and are turning to the Greens. Despite our antiquated First Past The Post system, we’re getting Green councillors elected across the region in numbers. Witness the recent Maresfield council by-election result where Ian Tysh romped home for the Greens with 61% of the vote.

In Conservative Britain, the rich are getting richer and everyone else is getting poorer and the prime minister has been doing everything she can to maintain these injustices. She doubled down on the Tories’ lack of compassion and awareness of people’s real-life concerns as the cost of living crisis is allowed to continue and gather pace. What does Greg Clark think of all this? His silence is deafening.

The next borough elections are in May 2023. Isn’t it time we had a Green voice on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council?

Geoff Mason Tunbridge Wells Green Party

Geoff Mason lives in Goudhurst & Lamberhurst Ward and is actively involved with High Weald Swift Conservation Group. He is on the Amenities Committee of Goudhurst Parish Council and is the Social Media Coordinator of Tunbridge Wells Green Party.

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.

introduction to pocket notebooks and how to record evidence effectively.

DIRTY The Greens propose a tax on North Sea Oil

The human touch

Why a career in home care works for me

THE CARE sector is often in the headlines for the wrong reasons, but if you enjoy helping people it can provide a truly fulfilling career. Three local carers – at different stages of their careers – have been sharing why they chose a career in domiciliary care, which is a vital service in our community, helping the elderly to continue to live independently in their own homes.

According to the latest figures from Skills for Care, there are around 715,000 domiciliary carers within England, working within 8,891 CQC-registered providers in England.

Ellie recently completed her Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (England) and has been working for two years as a Senior Care Co-ordinator, working up from a Support Worker role for TerraBlu, an independent domiciliary care provider for elderly people living in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.

“I enjoy working with my clients and having the responsibility and compassion for ensuring their care plan needs are met. Knowing that I make a huge difference to their health and wellbeing is very rewarding. I joined TerraBlu aged 20, and it’s brilliant being part of a small, nurturing company. My professional development is encouraged, which is great as my knowledge, qualifications and confidence are constantly improving,” shared Ellie.

The ethos to help people remain in their own home for as long as possible is often part of the decision to choose this type of care work, especially if you’ve had experience with a relative employing the services of a home care provider. The role can fit neatly as a part-time career for people with school-aged children, or those who’d like time to pursue other activities and interests.

Anna returned to domiciliary care work in

April, after taking a break from the industry: “I wanted to get back into care work as I missed it. I am at my happiest helping clients to receive the best possible quality of care to help them live independently, plus it offers me flexibility. The work can involve basic day-to-day activities, such as washing, dressing and cooking meals, or cover medical and specialist care needs. I had spent many happy years at TerraBlu, and it was a natural choice to re-join the team.”

Liam joined TerraBlu as Senior Care Co-ordinator five months ago, having previously worked supporting adults with learning difficulties. “My previous job helped pave the way for this one, as I now work in the office ensuring assessments, reviews, procedures and timesheets are all up to date. I liaise with external medical services, such as paramedics and nurses, about our clients’ needs. It means

A month of caring

We’ve been mostly… Reflecting on the role of HM Queen Elizabeth II

TERRABLU Team Meeting

being very organised and efficient with time management, as well as an effective communicator. I thoroughly enjoy my job and knowing I am a key player for the team,” Liam said.

“Our philosophy is that it’s the little things that make a big difference – not only for our clients, but our staff. Providing regular training to meet CQC requirements, supporting professional development, team meetings and team social events help to develop and empower our carers.

“And we love celebrating their successes on Facebook and Instagram. This combination means our carers have a client-centred attitude ensuring they receive the best care to enhance their lives. It creates a wonderful win-win for everyone,” explained Netta Sceal, Deputy Care Manager at TerraBlu.

Energy efficiency: a local care provider finds helpful ways for clients to stay warm

A LOCAL home care provider has reported that their clients’ main concern is keeping warm this winter while managing their energy bills.

TerraBlu Home Care, a domiciliary care provider covering Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, has asked staff to help find energyefficient ways to keep their elderly clients warm.

The government’s energy price cap means on average households will pay around £2,500 a year on their energy bills for the next two years. While this is less than the predicted £6,000 average bill before the price cap was confirmed, it’s still a vast increase on the £764 average bill

last year.

“The elderly are more susceptible to colder weather, so this is a real worry for the clients we support,” said Emma Foard, Operations Manager at Terrablu. “So, our carers are making sure they have draft excluders and thick, lined curtains and putting lights and heating on timers.”

“I visited a client who was really worried about her fuel bills, so I checked that all the switches and plugs not in use were turned off and rooms not being used had curtains and windows closed to keep the warmth in,” expanded Netta Sceal, Deputy Care Manager.

She continues, “The team have also helped clients fill flasks, so they have accessible warm drinks or soup during the day. And we’ve encouraged them to wear warm, fluffy bed socks and thermal underwear, as well as a fleecy blanket when sitting in armchairs. Regular exercise is another great way to stay warm and get the circulation going.”

“It’s a worrying time for our clients and it’s this human touch that our carers weave into the care we provide for them that makes TerraBlu care so much more than solely delivering an agreed care plan,” added Managing Director, Richard Gould.

AT THE same time as celebrating our 20-year anniversary last month, we also reflected on the late HM Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years of service to our country. The official days of mourning, concluding with the state funeral, gave our team and our clients time to consider how The Queen dedicated her life to uphold her duty to serve us all with dignity. We have some way to reach 70 years’ service, but we are committed to take inspiration from our late monarch and always fulfil our duties to our wonderful clients with dignity and respect.

We’re looking forward to… Giving the team a token of our thanks

THE TerraBlu team are our Care Heroes. No one day is quite the same and sometimes they must give that bit more to meet clients’ needs or help in a time of emergency. So, Netta Sceal, Deputy Care Manager, found a special gift for staff with the message; ‘May you be proud of the work you do, and the person you are, and the difference you make.’

Netta says, “We are handing out these keyrings letting our staff know that they are doing a great job and to say thank you, as we are proud of their hard work and the kindness they show.”

delivered compassionately

And another thing…

sir

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your

or you can write to the

ABC farce makes Tunbridge Wells look a laughing stock

The long running farce concerning the replacement for the ABC Cinema site shows clearly that this country seems unable to get anything worthwhile done in a reasonable time.

That it should have taken 22 years to get nowhere is a disgrace, and makes Tunbridge Wells a laughing stock.

My wife and I used to go to the cinema before it closed and find it hard to believe

that it was over twenty years ago when we last attended.

Surely there have been enough attempts to redevelop the land without success for it to be time for the Council to grasp the nettle, and overrule yet another set of objections.

Consultation is one thing, but this situation has become ridiculous.

Colin Bullen Tonbridge

Even free parking isn’t free

Writing in response to Alan Bullion’s letter calling for free parking forever (Times, October 5), I’d like to remind him that there is no such thing as free parking.

Car parks require maintenance and management, which costs money.

If Councils are not funding this from parking revenue, then this has to be subsidised from other areas, and we know that the current Borough Partnership inherited a £944,000 deficit for this current financial year alone.

Whilst in the circumstances it was right for the Borough Partnership to listen to residents, we do have to look at more sustainable options for the future, which includes alternatives to driving - good news for the town’s congestion, people’s wallets and the environment.

Cllr Peter Lidstone St John’s (Lib Dem)

Boundary changes could be avoided

As new independent councillors for the Tunbridge Wells Alliance we have started as we mean to go on and believe our residents deserve to be furnished with the full facts about the changes proposed by the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE).

Recent meetings and motions regarding the new boundary proposals by LGBCE within the Borough have highlighted that residents are not informed as to the whys and wherefores of how we came to be in this situation of 20 wards with 48 councillors becoming 13 large ward represented by 39 councillors.

We have to accept that there were decisions made by previous administrations prior to our

PEPPY SAYS...

or

on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at

voting-by-thirds was not made with the knowledge that this would cause such seismic boundary changes.

These huge changes may have been avoided if the council had voted for all-out elections at the time and many Parish Councils and Borough Councillors believed that voting-by-thirds was more democratic and LGBCE was set to work.

Today, we have the LGBCE conclusions an d all Parish and Borough councillors are more informed. So the current situation is as follows:

The Council has asked for a period of consultation to consider ‘all-out’ elections. Should the consultation conclude that all-out elections are a better option and TWBC vote to support all-out elections, then the LGBCE itself would not automatically reconsider the proposed warding arrangements but they might.

We know that the LGBCE favour all-out elections, but we do not know the likelihood of LGBCE reconsidering or restarting their work to change the current boundary proposals given that the LGBCE has almost finished its work; it would be a fair assumption that the chances of starting the process again are low but not impossible.

This will be an important opportunity to contribute your views on the boundary changes and of all out elections whatever they may be.

There will be another Boundary review but not for a number of years so please do participate.

Cllr Ellen Neville and Steve McMillan Tunbridge Wells Alliance

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

GENEROUS PACKAGE. Chatting this week to his postman (yes, it was a male) Calverley was taken aback to learn they get up to six months FULL PAY when they are off sick. After that it’s half pay. No wonder Royal Mail bosses, who are losing £1million a day, want to make changes. And no wonder the posties, average pay £25,000 a year, are battling to keep their gold-plated benefits. Mere mortals get £100 a week statutory sick pay. Posties average £100 a day. Where’s the application form.

AND CONTINUING… To golf and Calverley finds himself in proximity to eight chaps waiting to tee off. It becomes clear they are postal workers out on strike or off sick. Bearded one: “Any of you been on the picket lines then.”

Bespectacled one: “What’s the point. They all stand around for an hour then go down the pub – we’d rather give it a miss and spend the day playing golf.” Up the workers!

WOKE FACTORIES. They call them universities but the one thing they don’t help students understand is the value of freedom of speech. In fact, it’s frowned upon. Research shows almost half of universities don’t have an active debating society which are aimed at improvements in extemporaneous speaking. Opposition to them is hardly surprising when coupled with the fact more than a third of students believe that university academics should be sacked if they ‘teach material that heavily offends’ some of them. Define ‘heavily offends’. The irony is not lost on Calverley. Countless millions have given their lives over the generations to ensure people like students are free to express different opinions. Today many students want to stop anyone with differing views being heard. How sad. Does the public purse no longer help pay for students to pass through university?

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

TROLLING ALONG. Interesting that the bad guy in the Harry Potter films (think Draco Malfoy/ Tom Felton) is just about the only cast member to reach out to JK. Rowling who made them all stars. She’s been targeted by trans trolls for speaking out defending women’s rights. How awful! Happily Tom says that he does not feel the need to shun the author over those views. Brave soul. He, of course, has been targeted by the trolls one of whom described him as a ‘crawling little snake’. Classy, right?

FINAL THOUGHT. If you love TV’s Casualty and want more of the same, just stand in line at your chemist and listen to people giving graphic details to all and sundry on their hospital treatments. Calverley had to skip lunch. Chin, chin dear reader!

term that have consequences for us now. That being said, the TWBC motion in 2021 to retain

arts

‘THINGS fall apart; the centre cannot hold’. The great Irish poet, W B Yeats’ premonition of disintegration had grander themes than the puny ‘coalition of chaos’ trying to run Tunbridge Wells’ council, but the words fit. Bits started falling off the coalition jalopy when it chugged into its first major policy disaster – the unconsulted plan to raise car park charges by 25-75 per cent. A hasty, retrospective consultation ended on September 5 and is being assessed.

But already, the coalition’s centre is not holding as the Liberal Democrat Leader Ben Chapelard grapples with the hotchpotch of his own party, Labour, a smattering of independents and the Tunbridge Wells Alliance (TWA). It took power only in May, though it seems like years ago.

Hotchpotch

The TWA is a hotchpotch in its own right. Its activists, of various political hues, have the improbable air of doing this council thing for a bet. Its leader David Hayward, a cabinet member, made it clear to Cllr Chapelard, writing in The Times of Tunbridge Wells that he is a ‘titular leader’– a leader in name only, who ‘definitely has no say or control over anything to do with the Alliance’. Nonetheless, Cllr Hayward lined up behind the Lib Dems, voting for parking increases.

Sean Holden

coalition

made themselves from budget documents they probably didn’t well understand. Parking increases which will sting us all in this cost-ofliving crisis, are supposed to help to fill a supposed budget black hole they supposedly inherited from Conservatives.

Shortfall

The coalition’s Cabinet Member for Finance, Andrew Hickey, ducked out early – leaving the Lib Dems and going independent over parking charges. Three elected Lib Dem councillors now sit outside the party. Labour’s rank and file are turning against leadership decisions, especially that to end free parking in Labour-held Southborough.

A predictable u-turn and a belated, cobbled together consultation has followed the huge public outcry from residents, businesses and town councils like Paddock Wood and Southborough about their views being completely ignored. Five petitions emerged with thousands of signatures. Rumblings grew within the coalition. The Alliance suddenly remembered its election promise to keep free

parking. The Lib Dems suddenly remembered their PR stunt of staging cabinet meetings across the borough was meant – said Cllr Chapelard – to ‘show our face and that we are listening to all parts of the Borough’. Cabinet Member Justine Rutland admitted to the council’s scrutiny committee that not listening to any residents was a ‘terrible and regrettable oversight’ though apparently not regrettable enough for any formal apology.

It’s fake news. Conservatives presented a budget shortfall in February because income levels were still below normal after the pandemic. But they were clearly recovering so it was necessary to see where they would go before deciding on further action. In Tunbridge Wells, vacant shops were being filled, benefiting from the Amelia Scott’s 100,000 visitors since it opened in April. There is growing income from business rates and the Conservative scheme to rent spare Town Hall space to businesses.

Coalition claims that Conservatives reinforced the budget from the council’s healthy £32 million savings during the pandemic are not true. Council borrowing was nil.

Starting today, Trinity Theatre Club puts on its stage adaptation of the classic Ealing comedy ‘The Ladykillers’. Running until Saturday, October 22, and written by Graham Linehan, creator of ‘Father Ted’, director Helen Thorpe tells Eileen Leahy more about the show…

The hastily concocted, biased consultation finished this week, but still there’s no assurance the coalition will listen to the thousands of voices already raised, or even to the (probably far fewer) raised in the consultation should they also reject price rises.

In truth, the coalition fears a paper tiger they

The coalition’s planned parking fees rise potentially harms recovery, jobs and businesses who say they’ll lose footfall.

Of course, now Putin’s war and the related inflation have upended things. Maybe they’d like to, but the coalition can’t blame Conservatives for that. Go Ukraine!

‘This play is a madcap farce with a great story, great characters, and a great energy’

have

Why did you decide to put on ‘The Ladykillers’?

I am a long-time fan of the original film ‘The Ladykillers’ and the work of Ealing directors Hamer and MacKendrick. I can remember watching it with my dad when I was a kid and loving all the tongue-in-cheek antics, murders, and general mayhem – always with a brilliant script and performances. ‘The Ladykillers’ is classic Ealing Comedy at its very best. So, when Graham Linehan created an adaptation for the stage, for me it was a no-brainer to put it on.

So what is the play about?

Mrs Wilberforce is an eccentric old widow who lives alone with her raucous parrot General Gordon in a gradually subsiding lopsided house, built over the entrance to a railway tunnel in King’s Cross, London. With nothing to occupy her time, coupled with an active imagination,

she is a frequent visitor to the local police station where she reports fanciful suspicions regarding neighbourhood ‘activities’. She is approached by an archly sinister character, ‘Professor’ Marcus, who wants to rent rooms in her house. However, she is not aware that he has assembled a gang of hardened criminals for a sophisticated security van robbery at London King’s Cross…

How does an eccentric old widow get involved in the criminals’ heist?

As a cover, the ‘Professor’ convinces Mrs Wilberforce that the group is an amateur string quintet using the rooms for rehearsal space. After the heist, she is then deceived into retrieving the stolen money, which she successfully manages to do, but, smelling a rat, ‘Mrs W’ informs Marcus that she is going to the police. Stalling, the gangsters then half-convince Mrs W that she will surely be considered an accomplice, and when this doesn’t work, they assert, that it is a victimless crime as the insurance will cover all the losses and the police will probably not even accept the money back. She wavers, but when she rallies, the criminals

finally decide they must kill her! However, who actually survives, to win the day?

What is it that people love about the film and the play?

Well what’s not to love? This play is a madcap farce with a great story, great characters, and a great energy. The film was only adapted for the stage 12 years ago, so it straddles the line of telling a period piece with modern language beautifully and the film itself is so iconic, someone in the family will know or at least heard of it. It’s a real tonic for these hard times and still holds some relevance and topicality –especially around the human self. So many people will be able to relate to and laugh at it as they recognise elements of themselves or someone they know. It’s a joy.

What are the differences between the film and the play?

Linehan’s play brings ‘The Ladykillers’ into a more contemporary style of writing without losing the heart of the original film – which starred Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers. It obviously can’t replicate the outdoor scenes, so

How many actors are in the production and are they local?

There are 13 actors in this production. Most are very local and live in and around Tunbridge Wells. We do have some familiar faces returning to the stage, but also welcome four new actors to the company. This is a lovely, strong cast which I hope the audience will enjoy. We are very lucky that there are so many talented actors in West Kent who have chosen to work with Trinity Theatre Club (TTC).

this aspect has been paired back. However, the play has more emphasis on comedy, one-off lines and the business of comedy, which you would expect from Linehan – the writer of ‘Father Ted’ and ‘The I.T Crowd’. It is more farcical than the film with – dare I say –undertones of commedia dell’arte, introducing a much more comedic physical element that the film doesn’t do. In this sense it is therefore more accessible for today’s audience.

Were there any tricky elements to staging this piece?

The biggest difficulty after the last two-and-ahalf years is getting the support of our audiences back into the theatre and supporting the club. This also includes the many talented people behind the stage that we have used – the professionals and experts in stage design, lighting, sound, technical, props and so on. Many though have sadly left the industry so this has been a struggle as TTC believes at its core that we should be producing high-quality productions to the best of our ability. However, with a lot of work and love I think we have managed to do this for ‘The Ladykillers’, especially as we are attempting to introduce some special effects into the stage. Getting that achieved for the audience will be awesome!

What do you like about directing in general?

At heart I am an actor, so I love the fact I can relate to the performers on a very personal level. And yet I love the challenge of formulating a vision, creating the overall piece with my interpretation on the play, its staging, costume etc and then seeing it realised no matter how briefly. Unlike film, I love the immediacy of live theatre as it’s very, very special and no other genre truly compares. You have to be brave to do it. That or barking mad!

TICKET INFO

There is a special opening night offer of two tickets for £26. But TTC also has special rates for schools, matinees and Friends of Trinity.

To find out more about tickets and timings visit: www.trinitytheatre.net or call the Box Office on 01892 678 678

Disclaimer: This amateur production of ‘The Ladykillers’ is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd, on behalf of Samuel French

‘The Ladykillers is a real tonic for these hard times and still holds some relevance and topicality. So many people will be able to relate to it’

‘The Ladykillers is classic Ealing Comedy at its very best’

CASH CAPERS ‘The Ladykillers’ is packed with laughs

Pictures by Jamie Craig Photography

Forage in nature’s larder to improve your diet and boost immunity this autumn Did you know you can enrich your diet courtesy of mother nature? Vikki Rimmer spoke to Hever Castle’s head gardener Neil Miller to discover the power of rose hips, which can be 40 times more potent than Vitamin C and can also be made into lots of teas and jellies

of their

Spend your half term making the most of the great outdoors

contain up to 40 times the vitamin C content of an

the rose

SCHOOL’S out for half term this Friday afternoon (October 21), and the great outdoors awaits.

With gardens across the South East, the National Trust is leading the charge outdoors, starting with the Fungi Festival at Emmetts Garden, near Sevenoaks.

Tasting rather like a tart apple or plum, the rose hip is an often overlooked autumnal joy. But did you know that rose hips also make a fantastic tea to drink, jelly to eat, or skin-rejuvenating cream? And by this time of the year we can all do with a little bit of rejuvenating!

can get stuck into the world of vegetables with the Harvest Spotter Sheet.

At Bewl Water, near Lamberhurst, half term is the time to experience the ‘Seven Wonders of the Weald’, with bike hire, laser challenge or paddle-boarding. The Adventure Pirate Ship and soft play are open year-round.

Running throughout October, the festival encourages children to explore the artworks and giant wicker mushrooms which have popped up in the gardens, or dress up as life-size toadstools, do crafts and enjoy the natural play area.

If you have been growing organic roses and have left them untreated, you can head out into the garden now and harvest your rose hips for all manner of treats and tinctures.

Blooms

You can even stay over at the reservoir, with camping facilities ranging from back-to-basics pitches with washing facilities to glamping in one of the property’s yurts.

Workshops

Meanwhile, there are talks and workshops for grown-ups, including forest bathing, mushroom growing and guided photography sessions.

I visited Hever Castle & Gardens recently and head gardener Neil Miller took me into the shrub rose garden inspired by American poet Emily Dickinson and her New England rose garden. The Damask roses and shrub roses in this beautiful border are laden down with what can only be described as ‘fruit’. In fact some of the rose hips are so big, they resemble tomatoes!

Another National Trust property, Bateman’s, at Burwash, has laid out a family-friendly scavenger trail through the gardens for half term, while the natural play area remains open.

If you prefer to chase your half term fun through the pages of a book, Knole in Sevenoaks, is hosting an exhibition of Roald Dahl’s BFG in Pictures, from October 13 to December 23.

An exhibition by the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, curated by Quentin Blake, contains 40 reproductions including illustrations not used when The BFG was first published, charting the development of this iconic – and gigantic –character.

All roses produce hips if their blooms are left uncut. The best and most flavoursome varieties are the shrub roses like Rosa rugosa and the Damask roses. Again, ensure that you are only collecting hips from plants that have NOT been

At Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Cranbrook, until November, young gardeners

Have a go at drawing your own BFG, dress up as Sophie or even the Big Friendly Giant himself, and have your photo taken in a giant chair. There is an outdoor winter trail with a BFG prize at the end of it.

MUSHROOM MAGIC Giant wicker mushrooms wait to be explored at the Fungi Festival in Emmetts Garden

HIP GARDEN Neil Miller selecting the crop at Hever

Picture: National Trust / Ignacio Silver

Times Books Editor Victoria Roberts picks three reads for the week ahead

On the bookshelf this week, a lockdown-set tale from the author of ‘My Name is Lucy Barton’, the collected dispatches of the hilarious and acidic Guardian columnist Marina Hyde and a new Alexis Henderson novel for fans of dystopian Gothic fantasy...

Lucy By The Sea by Elizabeth Strout

Published in hardback by Viking, priced £14.99 (ebook £9.99)

Fans of Pulitzer prize-winning and Booker-shortlisted author of ‘My Name is Lucy Barton’ will be eager to read the next in the series – which more or less runs on from where ‘Oh William!’ ends.

It’s March 2020 and Lucy reluctantly goes with exhusband William to Maine, expecting it to be a brief stay. But the pandemic that made William want to flee New York keeps them in their cliff-side retreat for far longer than anticipated. Lucy, still grieving the loss of her beloved second husband and fearful for her daughters, has to find a new equilibrium.

This book is different from others in the series as it is more rooted in a particular time with Covid, Black Lives Matter and the storming of the Capitol acting as a backdrop and bringing back sharp reminders of what lockdowns really felt like – which could be triggering for some. Even with this more concrete framework, Strout’s spare and elliptical writing concentrates deliciously more on character than plot – you need to read closely between the lines. The book is peopled with familiar characters from her universe – if you love that world, you’ll doubtless love this latest novel too.

Review by Bridie Pritchard

What Just Happened?! Dispatches From Turbulent Times by Marina Hyde

Published in hardback by Guardian Faber Publishing, priced £20 Guardian columnist Marina Hyde’s dispatches from turbulent times chronicle seven years of British life, from the run-up to the Brexit vote to Boris Johnson’s fall from power. For many of those who prefer to laugh than cry, Hyde’s hugely entertaining commentaries have been a lifeline. Every page is packed with extremely funny, quotable lines as Hyde mercilessly pokes fun at the political elite. It is perhaps also tinged with a bittersweet tone as we revisit old, hard-fought battles, knowing now how the story ends. This book can be consumed in small chunks over a cup of tea or all in one go with

something stronger. A remarkable record of our interesting times which – unlike a newspaper – fully deserves to be more than just tomorrow’s fish-and-chip paper.

House Of Hunger by Alexis Henderson

Published in hardback by Bantam Press, priced £16.99

This gritty, Sapphic, Gothic novel is a window to a fantasy world of bloodmaids and the wealthy overlords who own them. ‘Dracula’ meets ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ in this – a dystopian Victorian tale. We join Marion on her journey from slums to splendour as a ‘bloodmaid’, but all is not as it seems in this seductive new world of gluttony and mystery. Rich with suspense and intrigue, the novel is equal measure addictive and haunting. Although often too clichéd and simplistic in its exploration of class and wealth, it makes up for it with vivid imagery and engaging storytelling. Could a neo-Gothic literary era be upon us once again? Well, if Henderson’s efforts are replicated elsewhere, we certainly expect so.

FABULOUS FESTIVE FEASTS

Serving up a special menu of seasonal delights… Christmas Lunch or Dinner Selected dates throughout December

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Enjoy a delicious full English and continental breakfast buffet with a very special Christmas visit from the man in red himself Saturday 24th December £17.50

Indulge in Afternoon Tea classics with a festive twist From £25pp Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea £12.50pp Thursdays & Sundays throughout December

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Perfect for corporate bookings and groups of friends alike, enjoy a night of dinner, disco & drinks 7.30pm - Midnight Thursday 2nd, Friday 3rd & Thursday 8th December from £52.50

THE MAIN EVENT

Seasonal trimmings & steaming puds... let us do the cooking (and washing up) for you!

Christmas Day

12 Noon - 2.00pm

3 courses, coffee & mince pies

2.45pm - 5.00pm

Welcome drink, four course meal, coffee & petit fours

Review by Emily Pennink

Review by Victoria Barry

Leek, potato & chestnut soup with feta cheese & thyme croute (v) (can be made vegan & gf on request)

Duck liver parfait, spiced clementine chutney, toasted spring onion & sesame seed bread Hot smoked halibut, radish, cucumber ribbon, sautéed pearl onions with dill crème fraiche (gf) (can be df on request)

MAIN COURSE

Roasted free range turkey breast,

stuffing, pigs in blanket, roast

seasonal

&

(gf,

Roasted haddock fillet, cumin

potato

with a fennel &

(gf, df) Butternut squash, leek & spinach gratin, celeriac ribbon, sunflower seed purée with wilted

& rosemary

(v) (vegan on

Peek inside a cabinet of curiosity

This week Alexander Pushkin of Pushkin Antiques tells the Times about the fascination for cabinets of curiosity in 17th-century aristocratic society...

antiques

ALEXANDER PUSHKIN

FOR A SECOND, imagine a world without television, computers, mobile phones and smart speakers. What would you do for home entertainment without such devices? Cabinets of curiosities were the aristocrat’s answer for those who sought to enliven the opulent but dimly-lit parties thrown during the Italian Renaissance. They varied greatly in size, from a dedicated piece of furniture with multiple drawers to something that could fill an entire room.

Adventure

Drawers and shelves housed original objects acquired through long journeys to faraway lands. Every object offered an opportunity to tell a story about an epic

adventure, or more often, to fabricate one.

In the past, just as today, the wealthy liked to define their personalities through the possession of glamorous objects as tangible tokens of their intelligence, erudition, wealth, and taste.

They had already understood that precious objects held power over people and that associations between luxury items and personality engraved long-lasting impressions. But in all honesty, the cabinets weren’t always built on truth. Artefacts and preserved animals and plants were sometimes purchased at the markets in Florence and Rome rather than collected directly by the owner of the cabinet. Some, like the infamous ‘mermaids’ made by stitching together the torso of a monkey to the tail of a fish were wholly fantastical fabrications, closer to art than natural evidence.

But all in all, that didn’t really matter. In spirit, the cabinets were not meant to be scientific – they were a fount of imagination from which those who could afford to do so constructed their own personal versions of the world. Standing at the centre of this mini-universe and

pointing at the objects to disclose their deepest secrets, collectors felt a sense of ease and mastery over a world that most often appeared too big, too confusing, and too inhospitable.

Museums

From the British Museum and the Hermitage, to the Louvre and the Uffizi, the history of our best-loved museums of art harks back to the collections of kings, tsars and emperors. This gorgeous ‘trompe l’oeil’ painting (pictured above) by German artist Domenico Remps testifies to the importance that cabinets of curiosities had

across Europe in the 17th century.

This painting reminds us of the important role collecting has played for centuries in the history of western civilisation and shows us how highly personal collections of objects laid the foundations of the celebrated museums of today.

The opulence of the cabinets of curiosities is however, random –no chronological order or scientific criteria is harnessed in the arrangement. The owner of the collection was fully in charge of the interpretation, and the content, in truth, was a reflection of the owner’s taste and identity. As the amassing of objects grew and spilled off the shelves of furniture cabinets, collections took over entire rooms, and often more. But during the 18th century, the focus shifted. The rise of science as a defined discipline meant that collections could no longer just represent the wealth and intelligence of the owner, but that they needed to make sense of the world we lived in a more objective way. This is what the human skull we see on the top shelf of Remps’s cabinet represents, an existentialist urge to understand life and the knowledge that despite the wealth one might accrue, death will at once take it all away.

Visit our gallery on the high street and be amazed at some of the treasures and curiosities you will discover.

The best investment is what you like

Gorringes Auctioneer Joseph Trinder advises on how to purchase items for investment...

If you are interested in a particular artist, porcelain factory or manufacturer, then taking the time to research their work and recent performance in the market will be as much an enjoyable pastime as an act of due diligence ahead of purchase – yet the second is essential.

Has the artist’s work been generally rising or falling in value, is the style or period generally in demand in today’s market or not – these are all important factors to consider.

Provenance

IN THE uncertain and increasingly unsettling times we live in today we have seen international affairs and domestic politics rock the financial markets.

With money in the bank effectively depreciating due to the rise in inflation, we have seen a rising trend in buyers purchasing works of art and beautiful objects for investment.

The canny investor in the art and antiques world will not only be placing their hard-earned money into an object that will beautify the home and be the envy of visiting friends and family, but hopefully at the same time not only secure, but grow the value of their investment

Investment

A question I’m often asked is: “What should I be buying at the moment, Joseph?” My answer is always the same, but it’s slightly different for everyone that asks. I simply respond: “Buy what you like.”

The obvious reason is that you will enjoy the

outcome of your investment so much more if you place funds into an object that brings you pleasure and interest.

I know a fellow with a wonderful collection of studio pottery by a particular artist that is very sought-after at present and that plenty of people would give an arm to own – yet this particular chap keeps it wrapped up in plastic as he has no real interest in or appreciation for it. He bought it solely for investment.

I find this rather sad and not what an artist has in mind when they commit their expression to

canvas or clay.

Buying what you like will ensure that you enjoy your investment, while as time passes, it has the opportunity to maybe mature in value.

‘It is essential to know the condition of a potential purchase’

It also allows my second point to be adhered to far more easily – know your subject and do your research.

My final point is to ask the experts. Take the team at Gorringe’s for example, here we have a full complement of departmental specialists that are passionate about their market area and will be only too pleased to discuss a specific piece or the market more widely with you.

In the same breath, it is also essential to know that the condition and provenance of any potential purchase ahead of bidding, as restoration to paintings, ceramics etc can have a large impact on value that you must fully grasp before bidding. At Gorringe’s, we are always pleased to provide full condition reports and guidance to interested parties ahead of sale.

I include here images of two pieces of Pilkington’s Lancastrian lustre – gorgeous art pottery celebrated for designs in the Arts and Crafts style.

The vase shown here (far left) sold for £1,700 at Gorringe’s recently whereas the far larger twin-handled bowl fetched just £600 because of condition issues. These pieces illustrate the importance of attention to detail, as well as an area of the market that has increased in value in recent years, bringing the canny collector aesthetic beauty and a return on investment in a single, rather pretty package.

by TV’s Clive Attrell from ITV and BBC Television

WATCHES WANTED

RINGS WANTED GOLD WANTED SILVER WANTED

JADE WANTED COINS

MEDALS

JOSEPH TRINDER

POTTERY PLEASE Lancastrian vase

ARTS AND CRAFTS Twin-handled bowl

Mental

By Victoria Roberts

charity holds panel to mark

HORMONAL changes around the menopause can lead to physical and emotional symptoms, but the addition of ‘watershed’ moments like children leaving home or parents aging can affect women’s wider wellbeing as well.

With its mission to ‘get well, stay well and thrive’, local charity West Kent Mind (WKM) says that mission includes the menopause.

In a panel event yesterday, timed to coincide with World Menopause Day (October 18), WKM Training and Development Manager Ceri Hodgkiss led a discussion with Jeanette Forder of Phoenix Wellness Coaching, and Daisy Tappenden of Tap Into Your Health.

Menopause Day

Jeanette’s own perimenopause experiences have shaped her coaching work with women of all ages.

Meanwhile, registered nutritional therapist Daisy supports clients on a broad range of

health conditions, as well as assisting those who want to make lifestyle changes, get in shape, and improve energy levels.

Hormonal changes experienced during perimenopause and after menopause can cause women to experience physical and emotional

symptoms, changes in cognitive function and more.

Yet, as Ceri explained: “While hormones undoubtedly play a part in our moods, menopause can coincide with a watershed moment for many women making the emotional symptoms of menopause more acute.”

Isolation

These milestones can include ‘empty nest syndrome’, with children growing up, as well as increasing care responsibilities as parents or other relatives age.

This can lead to isolation, Ceri said.

“With our children leaving home, we are no longer connected to our old network, or we may find our relationship with our partner or other family members is not as strong.

“It can also be a time when many women feel ‘invisible’ at work, either because they have fallen out of love with a career or because they see opportunities no longer coming their way,” she added.

“All of these feelings will impact our mental health and cause areas of our lives to feel out of balance. At these moments we need to seek help and support and recognise we are not alone.”

Lifestyle and daily routine matter, too, said the panellists, as they discussed how to look after our mental and physical wellbeing.

“Since our gut is sometimes called our second brain, they will also look at the impact of what we eat on (peri)menopause experiences and mental health,” Ceri told the Times.

Appropriately, the lunchtime event finished off with a light meal at The Finance Hub, which supported the event.

JEANETTE FORDER

Picture: Shutterstock

CERI HODGKISS

DAISY TAPPENDEN