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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Stations close as rail strikes begin
The home of expert financial advice in Tunbridge Wells CLOSED: A picket outside Tunbridge Wells Station on Tuesday morning during the first day of industrial action – picture Victoria Roberts TUNBRIDGE WELLS train stations were all closed yesterday (Tuesday) as the first day of industrial action began. Rail union RMT called the walkouts over pay and conditions with further strikes scheduled for Thursday and Saturday. Striking union members were picketing the station yesterday morning as
commuters found alternative ways to get into work. But the industrial action has been described as ‘badly timed’ by rail campaigners in the area who are urging the union and rail bosses to negotiate a solution. The walk-out of 40,000 railway workers
is the biggest rail strike for three decades and threatens to bring chaos all week. Southeastern, which runs the trains in the area, has warned the strikes will cause disruption even on days when union members return to work.
Full story page 3
Town’s annual music festival under threat due to cash woes EXCLUSIVE By Richard Williams THE music festival in Tunbridge Wells that sees 20,000 people descend on the town during the August bank holiday weekend might not go ahead this year as organisers are struggling to raise the necessary funds. Local & Live has been running in the town since 2006. Since then, hundreds of up and coming acts have entertained the crowds on the main stage in Calverley Grounds as well as the satellite venues around Tunbridge Wells town centre. After it went ‘online only’ in 2020 due
to the pandemic, the popular, free four-day musical extravaganza returned successfully last year.
‘We have two months to save Local & Live’ But this year’s event, set to be the 16th Local & Live and due to take place over the long weekend of August 26-29, may now either be scaled back or be cancelled altogether due a lack of funds. The festival, which is now a registered charity and run by a board of trustees, is
under threat due to a deficit in their finances of around £20,000. It costs around £50,000 a year to put on Local & Live, and while none of the bands charge for performing, the festival carries a lot of fixed costs including the hiring of equipment, security, insurance, building the main stage as well as the necessary facilities such as toilets. The cancellation of Local & Live could have a knock-on effect for a large number of businesses that get involved each year.
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
this week… Local & Live funding troubles threaten festival STORMING PERFORMANCE The Black Deer Americana music festival made a welcome return to the stage despite the weather P4
Continued from front page
All the food stalls and suppliers at the event are based in the local area, and hospitality venues that host acts during the four days of the festival rely on it to bring in custom during the summer and stimulate the local economy. Organiser Paul Dunton told the Times: “The Trustees met last week, and it is clear we have a
large deficit of £20,000. “Effectively we have two months to save Local & Live. “A lot of it is just the coming out of Covid, getting support has just been a lot slower this year so raising the necessary money has proved a lot trickier. “We really want to come back, and if we can’t raise the money then we will try to still put the event on, but it will have to be scaled back.
“It is such a shame as we have so many amazing acts that we want to announce but can’t because things are just still up in the air.” Mr Dunton said they are looking for a range of funding, including a main sponsor for the event that is hoped could provide around £5,000 as well as other sponsorship packages from as little as £100.
Crowdfund
FUN IN THE SUN Local & Live in 2019 saw thousands descend on Calverley Grounds
“We have all sorts of sponsorship opportunities available,” he continued. “So if there are any businesses out there that can help us raise money then please get in touch through our website localandlive.org.” Mr Dunton added that if funds are not forthcoming, organisers will try to crowdfund and hope the community can raise enough money to bring the event back this year. The news comes after the return of the Black Deer festival in Eridge Park at the weekend, although organisers had to pull the plug early on Saturday’s headline performance by The Waterboys due to poor weather. For a full report and pictures on Black Deer’s stormy return, see page 4-5.
PERFECTING ITS PITCH Why it’s game on for Tunbridge Wells cricket, as the club woos the county game back P7
MP proposes a new law to ban sex-based harassment in public
PROPERTY SPECIAL Everything you need to know about commercial and residential property, in our pull-out special P19
By Richard Williams
MOORE CONNECTIONS The Amelia’s ‘Threads of Influence’ exhibition explores the cultures and contexts informing the sculptor’s work P42
GREG CLARK has presented a bill to parliament to outlaw sexual harassment of women and girls in public places. The Tunbridge Wells MP was one of 20 parliamentarians chosen to present a Private Members Bill to the House of Commons last week after a ballot of 460 MPs who all wanted to get their own laws introduced. Private Members Bills are legislation that is proposed by bankbench MPs and members of the Lords who are not ministers rather than the government.
LAWMAKER Mr Clark introducing his Private Members Bill in the Commons
Offence
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through the streets at night to having explicit, abusive comments directed at them. “Girls and women should not have to put up with that, but too often they do. “There is currently no offence of sexual harassment in public places, whereas sexual harassment in the workplace is specifically prohibited, and other types of harassment, such as harassment in public on racial grounds or because of someone’s disability, are – rightly – specified as being especially serious. “My Bill will close the gap by specifying an offence of deliberate harassment in public places based on someone’s sex. “This is an important change to the law and the Bill will be drafted to reflect the outcome of a
Public Consultation which the Government has committed to launch before the summer recess.
Inform “The Home Office will now begin this shortly, completed in good time to inform the detailed drafting of the Bill before its Second Reading on 9 December. “For too long women and girls have had to endure deliberate harassment, alarm and distress when going about their lives with inadequate protection from the law. “If it is approved by Parliament, my Bill will be a partial but significant step to providing greater security to them.”
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ON THE ROADS A21 Northbound & Southbound Tonbridge Bypass to Sevenoaks bypass – closure for carriageway bridge works – 8pm June 24-6am June 27 A26 (London Road, Southborough, junction with Church Road) – traffic control (multi-way signals) June 24-28 Eridge Road (Eridge) traffic control two-way signals
June 24-28 Eridge Road (junction with Broadwater Down) – traffic control multi-way signals June 27-29 Forest Road – Traffic control two-way signals until June 24 High Brooms Road (junction with North Farm Road) – traffic control multi-way signals – drainage works – June 23-27
Major Yorks Road – traffic control two-way signals – June 23-27 Speldhurst Road – traffic control two-way signals – June 24-28
RAILWAYS RMT workers will strike on Thursday, June 23, and Saturday, June 25 which may mean very few trains.
Disruption expected on the following days.
Courtesy of the Met Office
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Mr Clark’s ‘Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Bill’ is set for a reading before parliament on December 9. The bill will effectively outlaw harassment of women and girls in public, such as making it a criminal offence to deliberately follow and intimidate females walking through the streets or making explicit, abusive comments at them. It could even see catcalling and wolf-whistling made a criminal offence. Speaking to the Times after presenting the bill last Wednesday (June 15), Mr Clark said: “I was honoured to present my Private Member’s Bill in the House of Commons today. “Over the years I have met with many girls and women in my constituency who have had to put up with harassment on the streets – from being deliberately followed and intimidated in walking
NEWS IN BRIEF
Police renew appeal after teen stabbing DETECTIVES investigating the stabbing of a Tunbridge Wells teenager in a park are renewing their appeal for information. Tristan Azevedo, 18, is recovering after being stabbed in Grosvenor & Hilbert Park suffering at around 2.30pm on Wednesday, June 1 when he was playing football in what police are calling an ‘isolated incident’. A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is currently facing a charge of attempted murder, and four other teenagers have been arrested but bailed. Police are urging residents in nearby roads to check any footage from doorbell cameras or other private security systems. Anyone with information should call 01622 604100.
Unemployment falls JOBLESS figures continue their decline, with 15 fewer unemployed claimants in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area last month. According to figures released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) last week, 1,710 people were claiming some form of out-ofwork benefits in the local authority area during May 2022 compared to the April figure of 1,725. Jobless claimants in the last pre-pandemic month of March 2020 totalled just 1,130 people. The level soared to 2,325 in April 2020 and peaked at 3,325 by August last year.
Dame Kelly: ‘I’m gay’ LOCAL charity patron and former Olympian Dame Kelly Holmes has said she ‘finally feels free’ after coming out as gay at the weekend. The athlete, who lives in Hildenborough, near Tonbridge and supports Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre in Tunbridge Wells, told the Sunday Mirror that she had been living a ‘secret life’ for decades. The 52, said: “There have been lots of dark times where I wished I could scream that I am gay – but I couldn’t.”
Gatwick cuts flights THERE will be fewer planes in the skies over Tunbridge Wells this summer after Gatwick Airport has reduced its flights during the peak period due to staff shortages. The number of daily flights will be cut to 825 in July and 850 in August, down from 900 in previous years. It comes after the government and regulators wrote to airlines telling them to ensure their summer timetables were ‘deliverable’
GREG CLARK MP ADVICE SURGERIES
If you have an individual problem which you think I can help with or you would like to have a chat about a more general issue, please do get in touch. I am holding regular advice surgeries – by zoom or telephone. To make an appointment, please call:
01892 519854 or email:
greg.clark.mp @parliament.uk
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Commuters told to avoid the trains as strike closes station By Victoria Roberts TUNBRIDGE WELLS station was closed yesterday (Tuesday) as the first of three national rail strikes saw all trains to and from the station cancelled. Striking rail workers picketed the station during the first day of industrial action by union RMT, as Southeastern, which provides trains to London from Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge stations, asked commuters to avoid the railways completely. None of the town’s stations were open yesterday, and no bus replacement services were put on. The strikes are set to continue tomorrow (Thursday, June 23) with a further day of industrial action planned for Saturday (June 25).
Disputes The disputes have flared over pay, jobs and conditions. Southeastern have said only 20 per cent of the UK’s trains will be running. The train operator has also told commuters to prepare for ‘significant’ morning disruption today (Wednesday) and on the days immediately after the other industrial action dates. The rail strike has not just affected trains. Taxi drivers in Tunbridge Wells who rely on commuters arriving and leaving the station found that they had little custom at the rank yesterday, and congestion levels on roads such as the A26 increased as commuters had to find alternative ways in to work. The strike also came as bus company Arriva put up its fares at the weekend by a flat rate of 6 per cent, meaning a weekly adult bus pass now costs £22.50 in Tunbridge Wells. Scott Brightwell, Southeastern’s Operations and Safety Director, said: “I’d like to apologise to customers for the inconvenience and frustration
Photograph by Victoria Roberts
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
DESERTED The platform at Tunbridge Wells Station on Tuesday
this industrial action will cause. We urge the RMT to call off the industrial action, and work with us to find a resolution as we look to rebuild the railway together.” Robert Mansfield from the Tonbridge Line Commuters (TLC), which campaigns for a better service on the line that runs through Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells said this week’s industrial action by RMT workers was ‘badly timed’ especially as it was the last week of GCSEs.
Punishing He added: “TLC are concerned that some vulnerable children may now miss their exams and potentially risk their future. “Due to a lack of alternatives, we are calling for special school services next week to safeguard these children's right to education. There is also
a risk that disruption will spill over to Wednesday and Friday morning, risking lots of exams. TLC are opposed to punishing children.” He continued: “TLC has long felt that the rail industry has to change, but that should not be at the expense of a well-paid and right sized skilled workforce. We can see both sides of the argument and urge everyone to get round the table and be reasonable.” For the latest national news on the strikes see page 13.
Record waiting lists continue to rise as Trust struggles to get back to normality By Richard Williams THERE were nearly 2,000 more people on waiting lists for non-emergency or lifethreatening treatment at the Trust that runs Tunbridge Wells Hospital, recent figures show. According to figures released by NHS England last week, the waiting list for treatments at Tunbridge Wells Hospital and its sister site in Maidstone increase from 38,715 in March to 40,636 in April – a rise of 1,921 patients – the highest recorded since records began in 2007. It comes amid a backdrop of record waiting lists across England with a total of 6.5 million people were waiting to start treatment at the end of April, up from 6.4 million in March.
Procedures While cancer and life-threatening procedures continued in the Covid-19 crisis, many nonemergency treatments had to be cancelled and postponed, leading to record waiting list rises. While the waiting list at MTW did fall slightly in February, when there were 37,775 people waiting compared to 38,441 in January, April’s figures show the largest month on month rise in the waiting lists since all restrictions were lifted following the Covid pandemic last year. At MTW, some of the longest waiting lists are for Ophthalmology (eye treatments), which stood at 7,389 in April, up from 7,310 in March.
General surgery, which includes treatments such as hip and knee operations stood at 4,592 in April up from 4,436 patients in March. The average wait for non-emergency treatment at MTW is now around 11 weeks, and around 69.8 per cent of patients are seen within the government’s 18 weeks, although the government target is 92 per cent. However, zero patients have been waiting more than a year for treatment at either the Maidstone hospital or the Pembury based facility. A spokesperson for MTW said: “Our staff have worked hard to clear the backlogs that have built
up during the pandemic and despite seeing a significant increase in referrals, we have continued to maintain our position of no patients waiting for surgery over 52 weeks and caring for our most clinically urgent patients. “After continuing cancer treatment throughout the pandemic and seeing unprecedented admissions within our emergency departments, the Trust are now also increasing the number of outpatient appointments over the next year to ensure we provide timely care. We continue to urge people to come forward for the care they need, using NHS 111 online where appropriate.”
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Photography by Caitlin Mogridge
Storms interrupt festival’s return but Black Deer ends on a high note
FLOWERS IN YOUR HAIR two younger revellers at Black Deer at the weekend SIT DOWN Indie rockers James on stage on Friday
By Richard Williams THOUSANDS descended on Eridge Park over the weekend to visit the Black Deer Festival after it returned following a two-year hiatus, but storms hit the East Sussex outdoor venue, leading to organisers having to pull the plug on Saturday’s headline act early. Festival goers were asked to evacuate the main arena during The Waterboys’ set with organisers blaming ‘extreme weather conditions’ but the festival resumed again on Sunday. More than 18,000 people flocked through the gates over the three days, and organisers say the return of the event had ‘exceeded their expectations’.
Van Morrison Black Deer, which began in 2018, returned with around 100 acts including indie band James, Imelda May, Foy Vance, Wilco, and Irish singer-songwriter, Van Morrison. As with many events, the 2020 Black Deer
RELAXED Dozens of acts played the many stages
‘After three years in the making, we’re overwhelmed. Seeing so many people love what we stand for makes the hard work of all our wonderful team worthwhile.’ THE WATERBOYS
festival was scrapped due to the pandemic, and organisers of the event received a cruel blow the following year when they had to pull the plug at the last minute as the lifting of Covid restrictions were delayed. The eleventh-hour cancellation saw event organisers take a ‘massive financial hit’, and co-founders Gill Tee and Deborah Shilling, had told the Times that the survival of the festival hinged on a successful return following a ‘torrid’ couple of years. After Black Deer came back at the weekend, the pair said they were ‘overwhelmed’ by the response. In a statement, Jill and Deborah said: “After FIRESTARTER The festival saw the best in southern hospitality
three years in the making, we’re overwhelmed. Seeing so many people love what we stand for makes the hard work of all our wonderful team worthwhile. “Black Deer Festival 2022 exceeded our expectations. Due to extreme weather conditions late on Saturday night, we took the decision to suspend performances on all stages with the safety of everyone on-site our top priority. “We’d again like to thank festival goers for their patience and understanding. The way our wonderful community responded to our team's hard work, dedication and passion makes Black Deer what it is.” And it looks like the event is set to go ahead again next year as Tickets for Black Deer 2023 have already gone on sale.
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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A triumphant return despite the weather
Times arts editor Eileen Leahy was enjoying the sun (and rain) along with the great music at the weekend... BLACK Deer made a triumphant comeback at the weekend despite the challenge of extreme weather conditions. The first day of the award-winning festival saw record high temperatures and glorious sunshine play second fiddle to the impressive array of acts who took to the festival’s numerous stages to entertain thousands of people who’d come to enjoy three days of great music, delicious food as well as kids’ activities all inspired by Americana culture. They included Irish singer Imelda May, acoustic troubadour Jake Bugg and the legendary indie dance troupe James. By Saturday however heavy rain meant organisers were forced to pull the plug on the
event at around 10.15pm, just as The Waterboys were playing the main stage. Thankfully by the final day the rain was a distant memory as the sun shone again and hundreds more arrived on site to see legendary singer Van Morrison take to the stage playing a medley of his greatest hits such as Brown Eyed Girl and Have I Told You Lately. Black Deer 2022 was a welcome return to the Tunbridge Wells’ music scene.
Americana event kicks off a summer of fun While there are doubts over whether Local & Live will take place this year (see front page story), the return of Black Deer is just one of a number of events planned for this summer that will see a packed entertainment schedule for Tunbridge Wells residents in the warmer months. Next week (Saturday, June 25) sees the return of perhaps the town’s wackiest event, the Soapbox Stars Kart Race, where dozens of ‘pimped up’ soap box karts hurtle down a track in Dunorlan Park (tickets: twsoapboxrace.com).
Promoter The Hop Farm in Beltring near Paddock Wood kicked off its summer season last week with concerts by 80s legends Simply Red on Friday (June 17), followed by gigs by former Jam frontman Paul Weller on June 18 as well as rock band and local lads Keane on June 19. Mark Harrison, promoter of LPH Concerts & Events which puts on the concerts said: "What an incredible weekend it's been. We are thrilled to have brought three of the UK's biggest acts to The
Hop Farm with Simply Red and Paul Weller, and a very special hometown show for Keane.
Fringe “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we'd like to thank the artists, the staff and crew, The Hop Farm for welcoming us here, and to each and every person who bought a ticket - we couldn't have done it without you.” Next month sees Westlife (July 1) come to the outdoor venue along with musical stalwarts Michael Ball and Alfie Boe (July 2 – tickets and info: thehopfarm.co.uk). Pub in the Park (pubintheparkuk.com/ tunbridge-wells) also returns on July 8-10 when celebrity chefs Tom Kerridge & Simon Rimmer will be joined in Dunorlan Park by Supergrass, Professor Green, Melanie C, The Feeling, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, ASWAD and Luck & Neat. Also returning is the TW Fringe (July 4-17). Now in its second year, the Edinburgh-inspired event will bring music, dance, spoken word and much more in a packed 12-day festival.
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Sizzling temperatures brings focus to beauty spot Health Dr Anjan Ghosh did offer a warning. In a video message he said: "There's beautiful weather around us and it's going to get warmer.
AS TUNBRIDGE Wells and surrounding areas sweltered in 30C degree heat last week, a popular local beauty spot became the focus of a national radio station’s weather reports. Heart reporter Alexander Stevanovic was at Bewl Water in Lamberhurst to interview Operations Manager Kevin Parker on Friday (June 17), which was declared the hottest day of the year so far.
‘If you need to travel, take water along with you, putting on sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and loose clothing’
Water The pair discussed the heatwave and the effect it has on tourism at the beauty spot, which is owned by Elite Leisure Collection, owner of One Media who publishes the Times, as well as the effect the boiling temperatures has on the reservoir – the largest stretch of open water in the South East. Elsewhere, the parks and Common in Tunbridge Wells were busy as people took advantage of the Mediterranean type temperatures. But as the mercury last week shot up across the county, Kent County Council's Director of Public
I'm here to give you a few tips about how to stay safe and stay healthy when it does get warmer. "Keep cool, stay hydrated and be prepared.” He added: "Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. Be prepared. Avoid travelling when it's really hot. "If you do need to travel, take common sense precautions like taking water along with you, putting on sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and wearing loose clothing that's comfortable for you and stay safe.” To find out how long the heatwave will last, see the Times Travel and Weather on page 2.
FEELING THE HEAT Kevin Parker [left] with Heart reporter Alex Stevanovic
Town tops the list of the UK’s greenest places By Robert Forrester A STUDY aimed at finding the country’s greenest locations has put Tunbridge Wells top of the list.
Factors The research by ‘Biophilic’ Design Agency, Exubia, looked at average garden sizes, average distance to a local park or playing field, forest cover as a percentage of total land area and the
amount of CO2 produced in an area. These factors were chosen as they were deemed the most representative when people think of ‘green cities’. The study compared over 100 different major towns and cities, and three locations in Kent were found to be in the top 10, with Tunbridge Wells taking the number one spot, thanks in part to its range of parks and Common. Exubia found that residents in Tunbridge Wells benefited from large private garden spaces as
well as a large, forested area and wealth of nearby parks. These inlcude the Green Flag standard Calverley Grounds, Dunorlan Park and Hilbert & Grosvenor. Also making the list at number two was Ashford in Kent, while Maidstone also made it to the top ten by coming ninth.
Clean Other results included Carlisle in the north west
at sixth place as it boasts the cleanest air quality out of any major town or city in the country. A spokesperson for Exubia said: “With investment in Urban Green Space raising the average house price by £2,500, there’s a fantastic social, economic, and environmental argument for investing in parks, forests and green space. “Furthermore, investment in green space helps to reduce air pollution and improve air quality which comes with a host of positive health implications for local residents.”
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Cricket club hopes to bowl fans over again by bringing back county games By Victoria Roberts THE summer cricket season is in full swing at The Nevill Ground but without any county cricket at the famous ground - but the good news is Tunbridge Wells Cricket Club (TWCC) has high hopes of bringing it back next year. The last game played by Kent County Cricket Club (KCCC) at the Warwick Park venue was in 2019, before the Covid pandemic. The ground, built in 1896, has not hosted county cricket since and without some work to the facilities it will not be able to attract KCCC back. TWCC, however, has continued playing, with considerable success, winning the ECB National Club T20 final in 2021, and reaching the finals of the European Cricket Championship in 2022. TWCC chairman Mark Williams told the Times that they are trying to bring the county game back to the historic venue.
MAIN STAND The Pavilion at The Nevill does require some work (inset) – picture by Emily Harding
Boost “For Kent and for the town, (county cricket) is a massive financial boost. As a club, we will normally make a net profit on bar sales alone. “By putting £3,000 into a marquee up front, we could make a loss, but we do it because we think it’s great for the town. “It’s in the national newspapers; it’s on Sky TV. People remember the time Shane Warne was here, in about 2014, playing for Hampshire. We had something like 6,000 people here watching that game.” The club chairman acknowledged that improvements are needed if they are to attract the county game back, but the club is prepared to invest. “We are financially well-run, and our membership is a strong membership. As a club we have a strong desire to contribute toward the success of county cricket. The Nevill has always had this strong affiliation with Kent, and we want to do everything we can to maintain that,” he said. “Over the past two years, we have been putting suggestions to the Council about positive ways forwards, with us taking some more responsibility. There are two discussions I had with William (Benson, TWBC chief executive) recently. One was that we want to have Kent Cricket to come back here, and we want to facilitate that. “The second is how we move forward with discussions about how the cricket club can take more responsibility. That would mean taking some of the administrative headache out of it for the Council. “We’re already doing quite a lot to facilitate corporates coming here. At the moment, things are working quite well with bookings.” One exciting and unusual ‘booking’ was the filming in summer 2019 of ‘83’, a criticallyTHE NEVILL GROUND View from the air
HISTORIC County cricket at the Nevill Ground in the 60s
‘Our responsibility to the community is to make sure our local people enjoy their sport – in this case, cricket’
acclaimed Hindi-language drama about the one-day international match held at The Nevill during the 1983 World Cup. Although India eventually won the Cup, it seemed likely to likely to lose in the first round against Zimbabwe, until Kapil Dev and the side’s wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani took to the field and shared an unbroken ninth wicket partnership of 126.
Example Kapil Dev’s unbeaten 175 in that match was at that time the highest score in the history of one-day internationals. In addition to raising funds for the club, the film booking also secured a paintjob. TWCC sponsorship manger David Marshall added: “This is another example of us not wanting to squeeze money out of the Council. We’re trying to get other people, commercial entities, to help, though we never twist anybody’s arm.” Currently, TWCC fundraises through ‘all the different channels’, using the Pavilion, the main ground and top ground, and the cricket nets – which the club installed itself, at a cost of £100,000. “There are other pavilions which have been modernised, which we feel are the future, like Guildford,” Mark added, noting that such
facilities could be hired for dinners, Pilates classes, gym training and more. “Our responsibility as contributors to the community is to make sure our local people enjoy their sport – in this case, cricket. “What I said to William is that during the discussions with the county to bring cricket back here, we would do everything we could, as a club, to create that opportunity for them to come back. So if it meant we had to do some improvements, the club would do its best to crowdfund.” David added: “We had to take the view that even though the Council might not be willing to spend that sort of money – and why would they? – we mustn’t sit back and think – well, the Council own they ground – they’ve got to do it.” The Council’s new Cabinet Member for Leisure, Wellbeing and Culture, Cllr Wendy Fitzsimmons (Lib Dem) said she knows how important the ground is to residents in the town. She told the Times: “The Nevill is a muchloved ground and we understand how important it is to so many people. “We are in the very early days of the new Borough Partnership administration. “We know that we need to focus on running local services well for residents, including parks and community facilities. We will be working closely with local groups who use these facilities.”
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BUSINESS
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Law firm’s chief steps down after a decade at the helm By Richard Williams
REBRAND Cripps Pemberton Greenish is reverting back to just Cripps
THE Managing partner from one of the area’s leading law firms is stepping down and handing over the reins. Gavin Tyler is to retire from Cripps, based on Mount Ephraim, on April 30 next year after 39 years of working in the law industry. He began his career as an articled clerk at the firm, qualifying as a solicitor in 1986 and specialising in disputes work, and more latterly focusing on employment law. He became head of the Corporate Division in 2005, and became managing partner in 2013.
Record
Succession James Beatton, Head of Corporate, will succeed Gavin Tyler as Managing Partner of the firm in May 2023. James has been elected by the firm’s equity partners. During Gavin’s two five-year terms as managing partner, Cripps has undergone change and significant growth, more than doubling revenue from £18million to £41million. He oversaw the firm’s 2013 merger with Vertex Law and the 2018 merger with Pemberton Greenish, as well as two major office relocations in Tunbridge Wells and London. Following the 2018 merger, the firm now plans to return to the original ‘Cripps’ as opposed to Cripps Pemberton Greenish once the full integration of the two firms had been completed. It has taken this opportunity to refresh its brand and visual identity to reflect the evolution of the firm into a purpose-driven business, set to meet the future needs of clients. Gavin said: “The rebrand has been a valuable opportunity to take a step back and re-evaluate what makes the firm so special and talk to clients and our people about what they want our firm to be, and from this exercise, redefine our values and purpose.
RETIRING Gavin Tyler “The new brand brings together the very best attributes from our legacy firms – so although we’ve made the planned reversion to the name Cripps, the contribution by Pemberton Greenish and particularly its positioning in the London legal market is very much an integral part of the new brand.” Before his planned retirement next year, Gavin has worked with the partners to set the firm’s latest five-year strategy, which aims to ensure the firm is considered the pre-eminent legal services business in the South, driven by high-achievers working together to make a real difference to the lives and businesses of others. Commenting on his tenure as managing partner, Gavin added: “It’s been an honour to be involved in the leadership of such a vibrant,
Festival Theatre at HEVER CASTLE The
heverfestival.co.uk
innovative and forward-moving law firm for ten years and to see the evolution of Cripps over almost four decades. “Over the next year I will be working with James, on numerous projects including our seamless succession plan. Amongst other things we will be bedding in the new brand, and implementing the new strategy, making sure the firm’s values and purpose are truly reflected in everything we do.
“James has some fantastic ideas for the future of Cripps and as head of corporate he has a strong track record in understanding clients’ needs and embracing technology to improve the client experience. His experience as an M&A partner will be extremely valuable in helping him lead our ambitious growth strategy.” James commented: “I am hugely excited about my new role. The legal sector is changing rapidly and we want to make sure we are in a position to take advantage of the opportunities that will inevitably arise as a result. Gavin has helped put Cripps in the best possible position for us to do this. We’ve worked together closely over the last nine years and will continue to do so over the next year to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible. “Cripps is on a very exciting trajectory, and I am thrilled to be stepping into the role of managing partner and working with such a talented team to realise our growth strategy.” NEW BOSS James Beatton
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‘Why go to London in the summer when you can go to the Festival Theatre at beautiful Hever Castle?’
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Job Clubs help Ukrainian arrivals find employment By Victoria Roberts TWO local HR professionals are helping Ukrainian arrivals to start finding local jobs with CV advice, English lessons and networking events with employers. The Job Clubs started on May 20, alternating between sessions for those whose members are already able to get a job with their existing specialisation, and sessions helping those whose English is not yet good for a professional job, explained Debbie Hayes, working with Julie Nicholds as Tunbridge Wells Ukraine Refugee Support Group (TWURSG). TWURSG is a sub-group of charity Tunbridge Wells Welcomes Refugees. “Ukrainians can book a space by emailing us on twforukraine@outlook.com and putting Job Club in the subject line,” said Debbie.
JOBSEEKERS Ukrainian arrivals attending the Job Club
Local News
BUSINESS
Local firms shortlisted for a lifestyle award AS THE Times went to press last night, 23 Tunbridge Wells companies were waiting to hear if they had won one of Kent’s ‘Muddy Stilettos’ lifestyle awards. The lifestyle portal has shortlisted 135 Kent companies in around 30 categories, with one third of those from Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area, and 23 coming from the town alone.
Attraction For the first time, regional award winners across Muddy’s 28 counties will form the shortlist for a national ‘Muddy’ award in varying categories that include Best Family Attraction, Best Hotel/Inn, and Best Restaurant. Local businesses and organisations shortlisted include The Spa Hotel, One Warwick Park, lumière, The Zero Waste Company and Trinity Theatre. Further afield, shortlisted businesses and organisations include the EM Forster Theatre (Tonbridge), Chiddingstone Castle, Hever Castle, Balfour Winery (Staplehurst) and Bewl Water (Lamberhurst).
Vacancies “We are ready to place those with ‘professional’ level English. “At the first ‘professional jobs club’ on June 10 – this is the group whose English is fluent – we had an oncologist, a couple of lawyers, a marketeer, HR, IR, QA (Quality Assurance)… we have such a variety,” she stressed. “The room can hold 20, and we were full. “Meanwhile, our English lessons support those that don't speak the language and we also hold jobs clubs for those with beginner English and talk to them about vacancies that do not require much English and get those type of companies to attend the club,” she added, giving examples
9
including production lines, factories and self-employment in cleaning. “I’m sure we can get people in the hospitality sector,” she added. “Wagamama has already advertised on our Facebook group, looking for people.” “We are also running a jobs fayre/networking event in Royal Victoria Place upper level on June 29 at 10am-2pm, where Ukrainians in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding area can book to attend and meet all local shops and businesses that have vacancies. “I am aiming to get all Ukrainians who want to work into a job,” said Debbie.
Acknowledging that many of the Ukrainian arrivals were effectively single mothers, meaning childcare could be a constraint for job-seeking, she called for a team effort, which might involve babysitting circles amongst Ukrainian arrivals, or asking host families to listen out for the children overnight, while a mother went out to work. “The key thing where we’ve got mothers with kids – one could earn by looking after children for the others. There are teenagers looking for pocket money as well. “There are also some 22-26 year-old females who are able to work full-time.”
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Yard Sale helps clear clutter and the soul By Hannah Veness IT TURNS out that mass decluttering is good for the soul, whether the soul of a person or of a community, as Tunbridge Wells found thanks to the first Yard Sale since the pandemic. On June 11, over 140 residents across Tunbridge Wells, Langton Green, Rusthall, Southborough, Hawkenbury and High Brooms went outside in the sunshine to sell just about anything, from children’s toys to garden furniture, through the Tunbridge Wells Yard Sale. Nourish Community Foodbank was named as the event’s partner charity, with the option to donate any earnings to them or a charity of choice. The aim was to also encourage a sense of community. Ingrid Pope, who runs professional coaching INGRID POPE
business Creating Space, started the yard sale project in 2017 and ran it successfully each year until the two-year hiatus due to Covid-19. She said: “We sent out about 15,000 leaflets because we wanted to raise awareness. It’s less about the money and more about awareness, we need to regularly remind people about these kinds of charities.”
Celebrations The yard sale chose the children’s charity Tree of Hope as partner in 2018, and social action organisation Imago in 2019. But the effect of the event is wider than just one charity, with more and more people getting involved over the years. Ingrid said: “I think the recent Jubilee celebrations encouraged people to get to know their neighbours and then get together as friends and join in with the sale.
“It’s also a good way for people just walking past to get chatting, having interesting conversations with someone you wouldn’t regularly talk to and also discovering new parts of the town.” Local businesses also got involved in the sale, including vegan restaurant The Plant Base and burger restaurant Roddyburger. Ingrid’s business is based on the philosophy of decluttering our lives in order to stay on track and look after ourselves. She was originally drawn to the idea of a yard sale as a fun way for people to declutter their homes. She said: “When we have too much clutter it really affects all aspects of our lives, our wellbeing and mental health. “Putting it in the diary helps people to focus and something to work towards. When faced with these tasks we put them off, but a start is better than nothing.”
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Community News
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Village’s Jubilee fête gives a boost for the play area fund
NEWS
11
Thousands raised by Racing the Sun
By Victoria Roberts BIDBOROUGH Village is two thirds of the way toward its goal of a new playground after the village’s summer and Jubilee fête raised over £18,000. The village’s old play park next to the primary school, was condemned as unsafe and removed in winter 2020, leaving children digging holes and sliding down mud banks in the recreation ground, according to the Friends of Bidborough Play Park group, created in 2020 by Sarah and Katie Haylock.
Weekend The group is trying to raise £35,000 for the new playground, and had been raising money with raffles, cake sales and two scarecrow trails, together with GoFundMe donations. However, the Jubilee weekend saw the group raise £18,182, taking the total to £25,536. Sarah Carrick explained: “This is a great achievement for our little village and hopefully we will be able to reinstate the children’s play park sooner rather than later!” “There are lots of community groups that would benefit from the play park. The school has a holiday club that is run during the holidays and there is also nursery in Bidborough,” said the Friends group. “The main playground users are those that attend the local primary school who use it as somewhere to socialise after school but also those that live in the village as a place to meet other families. The families of the people playing cricket and stoolball on the Rec. also use it.
BUNTING The Jubilee helped with fundraising
“We are lucky to live in beautiful surroundings with lots of places for the kids to play but it is so important to have a safe enclosed play park for them. Without exciting equipment to play
PLAYGROUND FUNDRAISERS The Sarah Carrick and Katie Haylock of Friends of Bidborough Play Park children have begun digging holes and sliding down mud banks!” The Friends are now looking at grant applications to raise the rest of the money, as there are some legal issues which need resolution, which mean a ‘phased’ installation of the play area, using some of the money, is not currently feasible. In the meantime, the Friends are considering running another scarecrow trail this October. The fundraiser is at GoFundMe.com/f/ Help-Refurbish-Bidboroughs-Play-Park.
From
AN EIGHT-hour triathlon over the Brecon peaks in Wales has netted £2,300 for a medical charity, thanks to a local finance advisor whose niece could benefit from the organisation’s research. Action Medical Research for Children was founded as a polio charity in 1952, and has committed nearly £2million towards 13 research organistations since 1963. In the charity’s Race the Sun fundraising series, teams of four start out at dawn on a route through a mountainous British landscape in triathlon style – cycling, hiking and canoeing. Victoria Ansell, of Castle Corporate Finance in Tonbridge (pictured second right) gathered a team for Brecon Beacons challenge on June 11. “I currently have a niece undergoing treatment for Leukaemia, which hopefully will save her life, and which is a new treatment that is the result of work and research and support from charities such as Action Medical Research,” said Victoria. “So this is a cause that has some personal resonance.”
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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National News
NEWS
13
PM asks public to ‘stay the course’ as rail strikes grind the UK to a halt
ALL OUT RMT members on Tuesday as rail services were cancelled
PRIME Minister Boris Johnson called on the public to ‘stay the course’ after around 40,000 members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union at Network Rail and 13 train operators walked out yesterday (Tuesday) in a dispute over pay, jobs and conditions. Millions of people suffered disruption from the rail strikes that saw 80 per cent of trains cancelled and a spike in road congestion. Across the UK, only a fifth of trains were running on Tuesday and half of all lines were closed.
Picket Services were generally restricted to main lines, but even those were only open between 7.30am and 6.30pm. Last trains were much earlier than normal, such as London Euston to Glasgow at 1.30pm, London King’s Cross to Edinburgh at 2pm and London Paddington to Cardiff at 4.27pm. But much of Britain had no passenger trains for the entire day, including most of Scotland and Wales, the whole of Cornwall and Dorset, and places such as Chester, Hull, Lincoln and Worcester. Usually, busy stations such as London Euston and London Paddington were nearly deserted except for union picket lines. Many people were believed to be working from home rather than travelling to offices.
Those forced to travel had to contend with skeleton train timetables and increased traffic on the roads. Footfall in central London on the first day of the rail strikes was 27 per cent down on last Tuesday as retailers say the industrial action is a ‘blow’ on top of rising costs and staff shortages. Retail analysts Springboard said the figures to 1pm showed that footfall in city centres outside of the capital was also down, by 11.2 per cent. In contrast, footfall in outer London and market towns was less affected, down 6.2 per cent and 2 per cent respectively, reflecting increasing numbers of people working from home, it said. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is considering possible disciplinary action after several of his party’s MPs joined picket lines outside stations. He reportedly ordered frontbenchers not to do that as the Conservatives have sought to use the row to claim Labour is on the side of the striking workers who have caused chaos. Pupils and parents were being urged to make an alternative plan for getting to school for A-level and GCSE exams. RMT general secretary Mick Lynch warned that the dispute could continue for months, adding: “It is clear that the Tory Government, after slashing £4billion of funding from National Rail and Transport for London, has now actively prevented a settlement to this dispute.”
William celebrates his 40th THE royal family has wished the Duke of Cambridge a happy 40th birthday, sharing photos of his major milestones. William was pictured on the monarchy’s official Twitter account as a newborn, after his university graduation, at Sandhurst, as a Search and Rescue helicopter pilot and on his wedding day with the Duchess of Cambridge. Following a message reading “Happy Birthday to The Duke of Cambridge!” William was also shown surrounded by his three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, in a snapshot recently released for Father’s Day.
Pledging The account also highlighted the second in line to the throne’s charity work and his focus on the environment, young people and mental health. William and Kate will reportedly hold a joint 40th party in the summer after the duchess’s birthday celebrations in January were cancelled due to rising Covid cases, according to the Daily Mirror. The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall’s Twitter account also wished William a “very happy 40th birthday!” Clarence House’s account shared photographs of Charles holding newborn William outside the Lindo Wing, the pair on a ski-lift together, on the Palace balcony with the royal family, and William with his arm round Charles. The duke has set out his key birthday as a turning point, pledging more help for those who
are struggling. He vowed to continue to raise the issue of homelessness in an article for the Big Issue, after taking on a stint as a seller of the magazine on the streets of London earlier this month. “I have always believed in using my platform to help tell those stories and to bring attention and action to those who are struggling,” he said. “I plan to do that now I’m turning 40, even more than I have in the past. “So, for my part, I commit to continue doing what I can to shine a spotlight on this solvable issue not just today, but in the months and years to come.” TWEET The Royal Family’s Twitter post
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
National News
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Blaze breaks out in high-rise Ex-soldier jailed for 38 years after less than a mile from Grenfell killing neighbours over parking row ON FIRE The fire in Shepherd’s Bush could be seen from Grenfell Tower (foreground)
RESIDENTS were evacuated from a high-rise block in Shepherd’s Bush, west London – less than a mile from Grenfell Tower – after firefighters battled a blaze yesterday (Tuesday) morning. London Fire Brigade said eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters attended the scene at Stebbing House in Queensdale Crescent, while London Ambulance Service said two ambulances and a Hazardous Area Response Team were there. One person taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation and two others were treated at the scene.
E-bike At least 30 people were evacuated from the building following the blaze, visible from Grenfell where more than 72 people died in 2017, which was reported at 9.23am on Tuesday and was under control at around 10.55am. The official cause remains unknown, although a resident of the block of flats said the blaze began when his friend was charging an e-bike in
MURDERED Stephen and Jennifer Chapple were killed by Collin Reeves (right)
his home. Liiban Shakat, of Stebbing House, Shepherd’s Bush, west London, said his visitor, whom he named as Abid Naser Mohamed, woke him up on Tuesday morning with a ‘black mouth’ from the smoke and led him to the guest bedroom, which was engulfed in flames. Mr Mohamed was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation, Mr Shakat said. In a statement from the scene, station commander David Bracewell said: “Firefighters dealt with a fire on the 12th floor of a tower block in W11. Three people from the affected flat left before the brigade arrived. A number of other residents evacuated the building. “Firefighters led six residents to safety via an internal staircase. Further residents who were not affected by fire, heat or smoke were advised to remain in their flats. “In the early stages we used new technology called 9Eye that enabled a caller to send live stream videos of the incident straight into the brigade’s 999 call centre.”
AN AFGHANISTAN veteran who stabbed his neighbours to death while their young children slept upstairs following a long-running dispute over parking has been jailed for at least 38 years. Collin Reeves knifed Stephen and Jennifer Chapple six times each at their home in Dragon Rise, Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton in Somerset, on the evening of November 21 last year. Reeves, also of Dragon Rise, had been involved in a row with the couple over designated parking on the new-build housing development since the previous May. The 35-year-old former Royal Engineer used the ceremonial dagger given to him when he left the Army to kill the couple. Reeves himself called the police just a few minutes after the killings to confess what he had done, but later denied murder, claiming he was only guilty of manslaughter due to diminished responsibility.
Depression But two forensic psychiatrists found he was not suffering from psychosis or acute post-traumatic stress disorder and diagnosed him with only mild to moderate depression. A jury at Bristol Crown Court heard that Reeves had also been having trouble in his own marriage, and that less than an hour before he stabbed the Chapples his wife had asked for a trial separation. Reeves was unanimously convicted of murder last Friday after jurors deliberated for five hours and 21 minutes. Jailing Reeves for life with a minimum term of 38 years, Mr Justice Garnham said the killings had “torn the heart out of two perfectly normal,
decent families”. “You left (Mr and Mrs Chapple) on the floor bleeding to death, and all of the time their two children were asleep upstairs,” the judge said. “Your murderous behaviour left them orphans. They were put to bed that night by their parents and they would never see them again. The harm you did those two innocent children is incalculable.” Mr Justice Garnham said that, at the same time, Reeves had inflicted enormous damage on his own daughters, who will now grow up without their father. Mrs Chapple’s mother, Ann Clayton, said in a victim impact statement: “For a mother to lose a child is something that causes never-ending pain, knowing there will forever be a darkness inside you, a light switched off that can never be replaced.” She described her daughter as “an exuberant, caring, beautiful light in the world”. The court heard that the Chapples and Reeves previously had a good relationship but it had deteriorated when Mrs Chapple learned to drive and bought a second car. Rows over parking spaces escalated to the point that both Reeves’ wife Kayley and Mrs Chapple had told their friends they were anxious about bumping into each other on the school run. After the killings, Reeves was recorded in the background of the 999 call telling someone, believed to be his mother Lynn, “I couldn’t let her (or them) torment Kayley any more”. Reeves said he had little memory of the incident but recalled sitting on the stairs in tears after the conversation with his wife. He claimed he did not remember taking his dagger out of the picture frame in which it was usually displayed.
Kellogg’s to break up KELLOGG Company, the maker of Frosties, Rice Krispies and Crunchy Nut, will split into three companies focused on cereals, snacks and plant-based foods. Kellogg’s, which also owns MorningStar Farms, the plant-based food maker, said the spin-off of the yet-to-be-named cereal and plant-based food companies should be completed by the end of next year. Kellogg’s had net sales of $14.2billion (£11.6billion) in 2021, with $11.4billion (£9.3billion) generated by its snack division. Cereal accounted for another $2.4billion (£1.96billion) in sales last year while plantbased sales totalled around $340million (£277 million). “These businesses all have significant standalone potential, and an enhanced focus will enable them to better direct their resources toward their distinct strategic priorities,” said chief executive Steve Cahillane. Shareholders will receive shares in the two
spin-offs on a pro-rata basis relative to their Kellogg holdings. The company’s corporate headquarters will move from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Chicago, but it will maintain dual headquarters in both cities for its snack company, which makes up about 80% of current sales.
Split Kellogg’s three international headquarters in Europe, Latin America, and AMEA will remain in their current locations. Companies have begun to split up at an accelerated pace, including General Electric, IBM and Johnson & Johnson, but such splits are more rare for food producers. The last major split in the sector was in 2012, when Kraft split to create Mondelez. Shares of Kellogg Company jumped 8 per cent to 73.29 dollars before the opening bell on Tuesday.
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Education
EDUCATION Times
NEWS
17
‘The potential to be part of a supportive global community is a unique opportunity’ Leading independent school Radnor House has joined Round Square, an innovative global network which encourages a passion for experiential learning and character education. The Times finds out more about the initiative and how pupils will benefit... RADNOR House has announced it has joined an innovative education network which serves and supports a global community. The co-ed independent which comprises a prep, junior and senior school and is located in Sundridge, just outside Sevenoaks, is now part of Round Square - a worldwide network of 230 innovative schools which encourages a passion for experiential learning and character education.
‘The Round Square approach is based around six themes of Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service, known as IDEALS’
Positive The approach is based around six themes of: Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service, known as IDEALS. A Round Square spokesperson explains: “In recognising that today’s students are the next generation of business, political and community leaders, Round Square IDEALS help to shape the way in which they understand, prepare for, and respond to the world’s challenges both now and in the future, whatever field of work or career
they enter into. They can – and should – make a positive difference in the world.” Tom Scott, Director of Global Education at Radnor House Sevenoaks, told the Times: “The potential to be part of a supportive global
community is a unique opportunity. The possibility of understanding the world around us and growing our mindsets is one we truly relish. We believe that Round Square membership is an excellent step in developing
truly global students. “From Nursery to Sixth Form, boys and girls here are encouraged to explore their surroundings and develop a high degree of environmental awareness, so membership of Round Square is very fitting.” He went on to say this autumn the school’s first cohort of Sixth Formers will attend the Round Square global conference taking place in Oxford - for the first time in person since 2019. “Being a Round Square school has brought a palpable sense of excitement to Radnor House’s school life,” Mr Scott added.
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David Haywood
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
David Hayward is the lead of the Alliance party in Tunbridge Wells. He was first elected councillor for the Pembury ward in 2019.
The Alliance
The Borough Partnership is good news for residents and businesses FIVE years ago, there were no independent councillors elected to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Now there are twelve, nine of whom belong to the local party, The Alliance, which was founded just four years ago in 2018. Nationally, the number of independent councillors has grown by around 50 per cent since 2017. Our council is part of this trend with an increasing number of councillors free from the reins of a national party, focussing on local services and local issues. Why is this happening? Many independent parties have their roots in residents’ groups formed when people have become disillusioned with the way their council is run.
Disillusioned Their focus is purely on local issues and their motivation is to make their Borough a better place to live. Many who vote for independents in local elections will vote differently in general elections. Others may be disillusioned with national politics. Either way, there is a growing realisation that local and national issues are very different. Last month, the Conservative Party lost control of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to the new Borough Partnership made up of 16 Liberal
Democrats, seven Labour, and ten independents consisting of the nine Alliance councillors and the independent councillor for Paddock Wood East. This is good news for residents and businesses in Tunbridge Wells. Why? It will no longer be possible for the council to push through schemes without proper
consideration and scrutiny. Of the Borough Partnership, 30 per cent is made up of independent councillors who are free from national party influence and whipping and whose allegiance is only to the residents in their wards. The Leader of the council is no longer an autocratic role; the Cabinet of eight councillors
Hugo Pound Labour Councillor for Sherwood
have to work closely with each other to set the strategy and direction, and to make decisions that have cross party support. As well as improving democracy within the council, the new administration of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is pushing to increase engagement with residents and businesses. One of the first steps is to take the Cabinet meetings on the road and move the scheduled time from mid-week mornings to evenings so that more members of the public are able to attend. The first Cabinet meeting is due to take place tomorrow evening from 6.30pm in Cranbrook. My role in Cabinet is to improve transparency and engagement with residents. I am also responsible for overseeing governance - how our council is managed - something many have questioned over recent years. Governance spans all areas of the council and across the responsibilities of all Cabinet members. There is a lot of work to do, and this job is best done by a councillor who is fully independent, free from the control or influence of a national party. We are honoured that residents have placed their trust in us and we are all working together to repay that trust by delivering a better run council.
Hugo Pound is a Labour Councillor for Sherwood Ward, Leader of the Labour Group of Councillors on the Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning. He is a chartered psychologist specialising in corporate leadership and strategy.industry, and latterly in consulting.
After years of Tory-led inertia the work begins AFTER the recent election a new Borough Partnership made up of Liberal Democrat, Tunbridge Wells Alliance, and Labour Councillors plus an Independent Councillor has begun to focus on its five priorities. One of the priorities is ‘Genuinely affordable and social rented housing’. As Cabinet Member with the responsibility for Housing and Planning, I have identified key issues we have to address. [1] We need to have a robust Local Plan to help the borough to flourish.
be part of the attraction of any new development. I have asked Council officers to come forward with ideas about how we can build some social housing for rent in the middle of Tunbridge Wells town.
Refusal
Environment It needs to set out the housing and commercial developments we need; the social, technical and physical infrastructure to support them; and ensure robust protections of our environment. The Local Plan, many years in the making, is currently being tested by a Government Inspector. We hope to adopt the new plan in the Spring 2023. [2] We need more suitable homes built in the right locations. And yes, we need more genuinely affordable and social rented housing. If we have no housing that young people can afford to buy or rent, where will our teachers, doctors, nurses, ancillary staff, carers, hospitality and transport workers live?
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live near where they work and to be part of the community they serve. [3] We must reduce our housing waiting list. There are currently 946 individuals and families on the Council’s waiting list looking for homes that provide more suitable accommodation. Many are living in overcrowded flats or houses, some can no longer cope physically with where they live, some are paying punitive rents to
landlords which they cannot afford. We have to work with developers and social landlords to increase the number of genuinely affordable homes across the Borough. [4] We need more community infrastructure – shops, nurseries, play areas, surgeries – to encourage residents to ‘stay local’. Why should you have to travel into a town for any of these services, clogging up the roads and increasing carbon emissions? ‘Stay Local’ should
I am looking at new ways of ensuring that developers contribute fully to the infrastructure needed on all our new developments. I am supporting the refusal of three quite large planning applications that have been judged as economically, socially and/or environmentally unsustainable. I am also working through the policy that determines who on our waiting list gets to move into our shockingly scarce social housing. And I am talking to developers about how we can work together to provide more suitable homes for all in the right locations. Some have said that the Housing and Planning Cabinet Member role is a poisoned chalice… but I see it as an opportunity to look forward and help build a Borough in which everyone can thrive and be proud of where they live and work. After years of Tory-led inertia and failed, money wasting, grandiose schemes, this work by our new Borough Partnership begins now.
Property Special
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Beau Property - P21
SJM Planning - P28
Calvermont - P31
Your 20-page property guide
All you need to know about the current housing and commercial market in Tunbridge Wells and wider area Produced in association with SGS Architectural Interiors
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Nearly a century of helping people find homes Natasha Firman of Winkworth’s reveals the history of this estate agency... A ONCE small family business which opened in 1835, now has a franchised network of over 100 offices in towns and cities across the UK, including 60 locations across the capital. Winkworth, which has an office in the High Street in Tunbridge Wells, has a track record of 40 years’ franchise experience, we were the first franchise agency in the UK handling sales and lettings. Londoners flock to Tunbridge Wells for its simple commute, great schools and rich history. The last two years has only increased this migration making for a buoyant local property
market. The town has seen an overall average sale price of £525,351 over the last year, generating an 11 per cent growth since the peak in 2018. The average monthly rental price has also increased to £1,430 pcm seeing an increase of 14 per cent since 2018. And what better way to capitalise on this growth than with an agent that gives you plenty of exposure.
Future No one knows what the property market has in store for us in the near future, with both national and international factors to
consider. The reality is the market is likely to tighten and if that does happen buyers and tenants will become harder to secure. With Winkworth you know you are in good hands.
Villages
LOCAL Natasha Firman outisde the Tunbridge Wells Winkworth office
Our Tunbridge Wells team covers the town and the surrounding villages, and with our large network of offices providing access to applicants from London and across the UK, why would you risk anything less? If you have any questions property related, please call us in the office on 01892 519 600.
Forest Gate apartments arrive on local market FOREST Gate House is a new development of nine luxury apartments in Tunbridge Wells. Finished to a high standard, the welcoming and light apartments enjoy underfloor heating, herringbone flooring, porcelain floor and wall tiles, lift access, a bike store, pay as you go car charging points, allocated parking and either a terrace or a balcony.
Secure The secure apartments offer a communal entry system, double glazed powder coated windows, multi-point locking sliding doors, a 10-year warranty and a share of the freehold. Situated in the tree-lined avenue of Broadwater Down in a highly regarded area of Tunbridge Wells, this southern part of the town
is convenient for access to the famous Pantiles with restaurants, tea rooms, bars and boutiques. With shopping facilities, theatres, restaurants, and many sporting venues such as gyms, tennis, golf and rugby clubs close by. The stylish new builds sit adjacent to Hargate Forest, offering tranquil woodland walks right on the doorstep. The front apartments benefit from a sensational view over the forest, creating the perfect setting for those seeking a combination of a town and rural lifestyle. For more information, please telephone Batcheller Monkhouse, Tunbridge Wells on 01892 512020 or visit the office at 1 London Road. Details on each individual apartment can be found at batchellermonkhouse.com
STANDARD The interior of one of the Forest Gate homes
A portfolio of places in our royal town Experience a LOCAL developer Beau Property is paving the way for a new level of living, with an impressive portfolio of beautifully designed homes in and around Royal Tunbridge Wells, the area the team hail from themselves. Having recently launched a collection of eight finely-crafted Victorian homes on Nevill Row to national acclaim, the reputable team tell us they are always on the look out for new, exclusive opportunities, from renovation or regeneration, to large scale development, or the curation of your forever home.
should keep Beau Property front of mind when making their next move. There is even the option to work with Chris to design and build your perfect property from scratch, bespoke to individual needs. Beau Property is always on the lookout for new opportunities with landowners and agents across
Attributes Founder Chris Hammond attributes the outstanding quality of his aspirational homes to the passion and professionalism of his growing team. Together, they are delivering prime properties that respond to the growing demand, both here and further afield, for well-designed homes which can be lived-in and loved for a lifetime. No project is too big or small.
life of luxury
BLACKWOOD House represents the last opportunity to own a luxurious property at Millwood Designer Homes’ scenic Tibbs Court Farm development. This five-bedroom detached property offers the very best of comfortable living. Positioned in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), residents will be well situated just six miles from the larger town of Tunbridge Wells. This idyllic setting provides the epitome of tranquil rural living, whilst remaining well connected to amenities and wider transport links to the city.
Layout
‘Beau Property is always on the lookout for new opportunities across Kent’ The team also believe that knowing and understanding the local communities in which they build is an important unique selling point. This means they can support local culture and respond to challenges, architectural influences and pricing levels - all of which make Beau homes so appealing to buyers who feel the value in this knowledge. With an expert team and picturesque portfolio of detached executive homes, mews houses and unique properties for work and play, prospective residents searching for their perfect property
Kent & Sussex, where they can bring their inimitable style to refurbish, restore or build new, high quality properties. You can find out more at beauproperty.com or get in touch directly with Chris and his team by emailing info@beauproperty.com or calling 01892 249000.
STYLISH Properties in Nevill Row
Upon entry, the property’s wide staircase and generous hallway welcomes guests into the heart of the home. The airy kitchen/breakfast/family room is maximised by its open plan layout and vaulted ceiling that highlights the extensive space available. The Garden Room is ideal for entertaining, as guests can pass through Blackwood House’s extensive indoor and outdoor space with ease through the large bifold doors. A traditional oak staircase within this room leads up to a private suited guestroom to enjoy. A large separate dining room serves as another ideal location for hosting guests, or for spending quality time with the family. Floor to ceiling windows in the master bedroom flood the room in natural light and provide a stunning view of the large north-west facing garden with its feature planting, whilst a Juliet balcony also adds an elegant touch. Blackwood House is priced at £1,750,000. For further information visit the website: millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk
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Last Opportunity to Buy Blackwood House Conveniently located just outside the picturesque village of Brenchley in Kent, buyers at Tibbs Court Farm enjoy the tranquillity of living within the Garden of England. Perfect for those hoping for more room inside and out, Blackwood House has been carefully designed to maximise space. Covering a staggering 3385sqft, this spacious five-bedroom detached property has plenty of space for all the family and visiting guests too.
Address: Tibbs Court Farm, Brenchley, Kent | TN12 7AH For all enquiries tel: 01732 223800 or by email at: tibbscourtfarm@mdh.uk.com
www.millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
A third of the country’s rental market is now ‘unaffordable’ DO SCHOOL HOLIDAYS STILL AFFECT THE PROPERTY MARKET?
How we shop for properties has changed with the advent of search portals such as Rightmove, Zoopla and On The Market. The days where we would visit our local estate agents and leave with a clutch of property brochures have long passed. It was this, combined with the preference to make such visits without the children fighting about your knees, which resulted in the traditional seasonal selling markets of the spring and autumn. Who would not want to focus on their search when their children were at school? Nowadays, we browse for our next home at any time we choose; when the kids are in bed, when grabbing a quick coffee and when standing in a queue to pay for groceries. Accordingly, the traditionally quieter school holiday periods are no longer. Indeed, in the first week of the Easter holidays, Maddisons completed a record number of viewings and negotiated 8 offers, a sign that families were still very much engaged and wanting to transact. Furthermore, for the past two years of the pandemic, the summer holidays, historically the quietest period of all (other than Christmas week) has not paused for breath! This was due to the huge revaluation of home and the stamp duty holiday savings. It will be interesting to see what happens this year. Of course, one reason some sellers do complete their property search during term time is due to the unsettling effect that house hunting can have on the children. As a mother of three, I found useful ways to help mine and have expanded my thoughts on the best ways to cope in a recent blog – just head to our website for more.
Meet the expert: Deborah Richards is the founder and managing partner of Maddisons Residential, leading independent estate agent in Tunbridge Wells offering expert sales and lettings with excellent customer service.
www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk 18 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN Telephone: 01892 514100 Email: info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk
ONE in three homes for rent in England and Wales is now classified as ‘unaffordable’ research has found. The Office for National Statistics defines a rental property as affordable as long as the cost of renting doesn’t exceed 30 per cent of the household's income. But specialist rental platform Ocasa has found that based on current rental market values and the average household income, almost a third (31 per cent) of postcodes in England and Wales are considered unaffordable by this metric. Ocasa analysed the current cost of renting across each postcode in England and Wales, as well as the average household income, and found that 69 per cent of areas are classified as affordable based on the ONS definition. This does, however, mean that 31 per cent are unaffordable.
Income Across England & Wales, the average annual rent is £12,763 and the average annual household income is £43,341. Therefore, rent accounts for 29 per cent of the average household income, meaning many may be pushing the boundaries of affordability within the sector. Regionally, rent is most affordable in the North East where it consumes just 20 per cent of the average household income of £35,774. In Yorkshire & Humber, rent eats up 22 per cent of annual income followed by the East Midlands (23 per cent), North West (24 per cent), West Midlands (25 per cent), and Wales (26 per cent). Even in the more expensive regional markets, rent remains just about affordable. In the East, South East, and South West of England, average rent ranges from £12,000 - £15,000 and
equates to 30 per cent of household income in each region. The only region where rent is unaffordable is London. While the average income is a handsome £54,194, rent consumes 40 per cent of this with an average annual bill of £21,439.
‘London’s home to ten of the most unaffordable places in the country’ Ocasa then analysed the rental market across England & Wales at postcode level and found that 31 per cent of postcodes sit above the affordability threshold whereby rental income accounts for more than 30 per cent of household income. There’s no surprise to find London is home to all ten of the most unaffordable places in the country with the worst offenders being SW1 (77 per cent), WC2 (74 per cent), and W2 (73 per cent). The least affordable area outside of London is the BN2 postcode area of
House prices near racing venues fetch a premium WITH Royal Ascot taking place last week, estate agent comparison site, GetAgent. co.uk, analysed house prices near Britain’s famed horse racing venues, to reveal how much of a premium race fans will have to pay to live in on the doorstep of these elite equestrian locations. On average, homes located in the same postcode areas as Britain’s most famous racecourses command a premium of 15 per cent compared to average value across their wider respective local authority districts. But for Ascot, perhaps the most famous racecourse of them all, this premium is more than doubled.
Located Ascot is located in the Berkshire outcode area of SL5. The average house price here is £753,430 which is 37 per cent higher than the wider local authority average of £548,482. Ascot doesn’t, however, lead the pack when it comes to racecourse house price premiums because over near Sedgefield in County Durham, a left handed jump racing course, local house prices come
Brighton & Hove where rent eats up 60 per cent of annual income. The WR2 postcode in Worcester is the most affordable pocket of the rental market, where a year’s rent costs just 15 per cent of the average household income of £41,900. This is followed by DN21 in Gainsborough (15 per cent) and TS26 in Hartlepool (15. per cent).
Reality Head of Sales and Marketing at Ocasa, Jack Godby, said: “It’s reassuring to see that the topline cost of renting remains theoretically affordable for the average household but it’s fair to say that this probably isn’t the reality facing many at the moment, as the cost of living crisis is putting a real squeeze on our finances. “The cost of rent alone might not break the bank, but once you add household bills and travel, it equates to quite a considerable sum for the average household and millions of people are currently struggling to cover these costs.” of the pack is Sandown Park in the Kent outcode area of KT10 where houses command an average price of £978,533. This is followed by Ascot (£753,430) and Lingfield Park in Surrey (£659,651). On the other side of the spectrum, the most affordable racecourse adjacent homes are found near Ayr Racecourse in South Ayrshire, Scotland. The average house price here is just £101,230. Also in Scotland, Hamilton Park has a local house price of £123,748, and homes near the famous Aintree Racecourse come at an average of just £133,704.
History at an average of £259,757. This gives Sedgefield a 112 per cent house price premium compared to the wider Durham district average of £122,818. Wetherby Racecourse is found in the Leeds outcode area of LS22. Homes here cost an average of £440,343, 94 per cent above the Leeds district average of £226,876. Nottingham Racecourse sits close to the city centre in the NG2 outcode area where houses cost £315,456, a premium of 78 per cent over the wider local authority district average of £177,187. In terms of which racecourse is home to the highest outcode price, the leader
Founder and CEO of GetAgent.co.uk, Colby Short, said: “The world of horse racing is a funny one. It is today known as a pastime for the rich, royal, and famous, but it also has roots very much in working class British history. That’s why we see some courses with extremely expensive local house prices and others with incredibly affordable prices. For race fans who want to live close to the finest events the sport can offer, it might be smart to avoid the likes of Ascot and Sandown and to look instead to the far more affordable but no less esteemed courses of Aintree and Newmarket.”
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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CALVERMONT HELLO, are YOU… …developing a new scheme or needing planning? …launching, repositioning or rebranding? …looking to reach new audiences & drive footfall? …raising funds or preparing to exit? We are your trusted communications partner for all strategic & destination marketing & PR activity across the built environment. We empower & equip you with creative content, campaigns & events that fill news pages, diversify your digital footprint & drive community support. We add value to your property business. We are brand & communication specialists for property & people with purpose.
www.calvermont.com
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ESTATE AGENTS
SURVEYORS
For Good Honest Advice You Can Trust
Office Investment
Shop Investment
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
HEATHFIELD
Superb 1st Floor Offfices
High Street Shop + Offices
Virtual Freehold 986 Year Lease Currently let on 5 year lease. Rent £22,000 pa rising to £24,000 pa. Mutual break in 2023. Offers in region of £370,000
Freehold Shop
Vacant Land & Store at Rear Shop currently let @ £22,500 pa. 1st & 2nd floor offices let @ £7,150 pa. Store 431 sq ft + 1,800 sq ft of land. Freehold £525,000
Industrial Space + Yard
FOREST ROW
CRANBROOK
Prominent Position
Workshop, Offices Yard & Land
Shop + Basement Storage S/c 3 Bed Flat Over + Garden
To Let or May Sell
Shop 559 sq ft. Basement store 236 sq ft. Flat in need of refurbishment. Freehold £280,000
3 workshops + stores 4,477 sq ft. Office building 515 sq ft. Yard area 11,050 sq ft. Additional land approx. 6,000 sq ft. To rent @ £50,000 pa.
Office Headquarters Buildings STONEGATE/WADHURST
UCKFIELD
Grade II Listed Former School
Office Building on 2 Floors
Situated in 1.94 Acres 26 rooms - overall 7,059 sq ft. Large car park. Swimming pool, tennis court + landscaped grounds. Freehold £2.4 million.
Uckfield (01825)
76 44 88
Close Town Centre
Overall 11,000 sq ft - good specifiaction. 50 car spaces. To rent or may sell freehold.
www.lawsoncommercial.co.uk
Battery powered lawn mowers and garden machinery
Easy to start Quiet running Low maintenance Environmentally friendly with no toxic fumes
Visit us to find out more about our range of Husqvarna, Mountfield and Stihl essentials for your garden! Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DG | 01580 880567
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
What is the Renters Reform bill?
PROPERTY experts Belvoir explain the new white paper on Renters Reform and what it means for the property market… Earlier this month, the government published the long-awaited white paper on rental reform. The fundamental change is to remove Section 21 notices which is the notice that landlords generally serve when they need vacant possession of their property. These are referred to as ‘no fault’ evictions because the landlord does not need to give a reason (such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour or that they wish to sell). It is important that landlords have confidence that they can get their property back and the proposed changes will still allow a landlord to gain possession of their property when there are
valid reasons. There will be further reform of landlords’ grounds for possession including reducing notice periods for anti-social behaviour, ensuring that they can regain their property efficiently when needed.
Implications There is a proposed move to periodic tenancies to allow tenants to move more easily rather than being tied into a fixed term but that wouldn’t necessarily give the tenant security of tenure that they prefer.
In addition, tenants are being given the right to request that their landlords allow them to have a pet in their rental. Hopefully, as with the model tenancy agreement in 2021, this will favour responsible owners and well-behaved pets There are several stages to get these through the legislative process and the devil, as always, is in the detail. If you would like to discuss the implications of the changes on your investment property then please contact one of the team at Belvoir on 01892 615333 or tunbridgewells@belvoir.co. uk
Planning changes aimed at simplification have now made the system more complex Planning experts SJM Planning tell the Times about recent changes made to planning legislation and the challenges they pose
• • • • •
client’s planning applications receive a smooth journey through an often expensive and complex planning process. Offer a fresh, independent approach to solving complex planning issues. Understand how to add value and get the most for their clients from the planning system. Build effective relationships with the Local Planning Authority, community and other affected by their clients planning applications. Hold professional indemnity insurance, protecting them and their client. Direct instructions to Barristers, without their client having to use a solicitor as an intermediary;
Clients typically contact us when contemplating altering or extending their home. Sometimes it is a pre-purchase conversation as we now offer planning assessments of homes they might be looking to extend once purchased. Recent changes in planning legislation by government have been made in order to simplify the planning regime. In reality these changes have made the system even more complex and it can be challenging for somebody with no experience or planning background to negotiate their way through the application process. Whilst anyone can make a planning application to a Local Planning Authority, an understanding
of the necessary requirements to ensure the application is validated is key to speeding up the process. Understanding the technicalities as a former Planning Officer can also assist in the negotiation process and ensure that the best proposal can be put forward. A Chartered Planning Consultant can; • Provide accurate, impartial and cost-effective professional planning advice to ensure their
Fence Not only are we Chartered Town Planners, but we also have Local Authority experience. In essence this means we have spent a number of years working the other side of the fence, giving us a unique insight into how Local Authorities act when assessing planning proposals. We offer a turnkey service that provides the measured survey, architectural plans, planning
‘We can advise on a variety of unique planning conditions and have a network of consultants’ advice and submission to the Council for approval. We typically manage the whole process to the point where we obtain consent from the Council. We can also advise on the discharge of any subsequent planning conditions and have a network of consultants who can deal with every potential constraint.
Work Not only do we cover all areas within the South East and London, but our work has taken us as far north as Bolton, as far west as West Wales and into East Anglia. This includes a local project of ours where we had to think laterally when planning restrictions meant the owners couldn’t ordinarily extend the house as much as they had wanted to. However, we were able to establish a fallback position with a series of permitted development extensions, and trade these off for the extension they really wanted. Not only was it a fantastic result for us, but more importantly, the clients were able to stay in the home they loved and didn’t have to move.
Right to Buy scheme risks eroding supply of affordable homes ANY extension of the Right to Buy scheme could risk eroding the supply of affordable housing further, according to a housing market expert. Reports suggest Government officials have been considering how to help young people struggling to get on to the property ladder in England. There has been speculation that Right to Buy could be extended for housing association residents and a wave of modular or ‘flatpack’ homes could also be built.
Revive The proposal for renters to be able to purchase their social homes at a discounted price is not new, and the bid to revive the plans has been pitched as being inspired by former prime minister Margaret Thatcher giving council tenants the right to buy in 1980. But Lawrence Bowles, director of research at Savills, said: “Every iteration and pilot of Right to Buy has failed to replace the number of
affordable homes lost.” He said that if Right to Buy is extended further, the supply of affordable housing could be eroded. Mr Bowles said: “This comes at a time when supply is already likely to fall, as housing associations switch their focus from building new homes to making their existing homes safe and more energy efficient. “If the Government is serious about getting more people into home ownership it could consider extending Help to Buy beyond 2023. “While the policy hasn’t been perfect, it has helped just shy of 300,000 households on to the housing ladder for the first time.” Polly Neate, chief executive of Shelter, said: “The solution to the housing emergency is staring the Government in the face: a new generation of well-built, green social homes. “Social housing with rents tied to local incomes is what this country is crying out for.” She added: “The Prime Minister and his Government should commit themselves to
months of this year compared with a year earlier. Homes are registered with the NHBC before being built so its figures are an indicator of the housing stock in the pipeline. The body has a 70% to 80% share of the UK warranty market. According to the NHBC, material and labour supply shortages are now being managed by housebuilders as “the new normal”.
Skilled
building much more social housing before pushing ahead with any naive plans to extend Right to Buy that risk wiping out what little is left.” According to recent figures from the National House Building Council (NHBC), the number of new homes being registered across the UK jumped by a quarter (25%) in the first three
The NHBC believes continued investment in skills and training is vital to bring on the next generation of housebuilders. It said initiatives such as its training hub, which is focused on delivering high quality bricklaying apprenticeships, are starting to make a difference and getting skilled workers trained and on to site. Inflationary pressures and the strain on household budgets may impact market activity, but continued strong demand is also likely to have an impact, the NHBC has suggested.
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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We are a local maker & curator of beautifully designed properties in & around Royal Tunbridge Wells. Our ethos is to build & regenerate outstanding properties with bespoke detail & a quality that lasts a lifetime, whilst adding value to our local community too. We are actively seeking new land opportunities across Kent & Sussex, so get in touch today to discuss your future plot potential, or to find your forever home.
www.beauproperty.com | info@beauproperty.com | 01892 249 000
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PLANNING PROJECTS SURVEYS Residential, Agricultural and Commercial Planning and Design Consultancy We offer a wide variety of services for projects such as: Home Extensions, Internal Alterations, Conversions, Garden Rooms and Structures, Residential Development and Agricultural projects. All tailored to best suit our clients and our individual projects.
Planning Consultancy Planning Statements Planning Applications Planning Objections
Architectural Design Home Design Structural Engineering Project Management
Topographical Surveys Measured Surveys Setting Out Surveys GPS Mapping
01892 882228 PLANNING
www.sjmplanning.com enquiries@sjmplanning.com
PROJECTS
www.sjmprojects.com enquiries@sjmprojects.com
SURVEYS
www.sjmsurveys.com enquiries@sjmsurveys.com
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Local property branding specialist doubles growth
PROPERTY PR EXPERTS Olivia Thornhill and Laura Gibson of Calvermont
A TUNBRIDGE WELLS PR and property brand specialist is celebrating its impressive growth. Starting out as the communications team for Royal Tunbridge Wells, local agency Calvermont has doubled its roster to include national names such as the Government Property Agency, Crossrail’s Maynard Design Group and Cluttons. It recently launched some luxury apartments by Elie Saab for Gulf Islamic Investments too.
enjoy the benefit of our broader reach, intel and opportunities for exposure.”
Impressive
You may have recently looked at a glossy brochure or the website of Sussex-based Greymoor Homes brochure or seen local developer Beau Property in The Sunday Times, but Olivia is keen to point out that their focus is not just getting clients in the press and creating beautiful branded materials. “With an ethos to lead clients ethically, we run
Despite the impressive growth, co-founder Olivia Thornhill said: “Our HQ will remain rooted in Tunbridge Wells, along with our families. Our national clients tend to know us for our major destination experience and international campaigns, whilst local companies
‘We run responsible planning consultations and crucially help turn potential negativity into neutral or positive profile’
Average age for first time buyers is 31 THE average age of a first time buyer in the UK is now 31, research has found. First-time buyer house prices have been increasing by £24 per day on average, recent analysis by Direct Line Home Insurance found.
Compared A typical first-time buyer property is worth roughly seven times the average salary of someone aged in their 30s, compared with six
responsible planning consultations and crucially help turn potential negativity into neutral or positive profile. “This extends to our role as brand guardians, where we help to strategically define vision and voice for consistency, reach and resonance with the right audience.” Having recently helped Elysian Residences, which are developing the former bus depot on St John’s Road, achieve planning across numerous sites and led brand repositioning for the Government Property Agency, Calvermont certainly has strong credentials. Property people looking for strategy, content, brand creative, collateral, PR, social media, community consultation or events, should contact studio@calvermont.com or visit www.calvermont.com. times in 2016, Direct Line said. Across the UK, the average person buying their first home is aged 31. And according to trade association UK Finance, 86,500 first-time buyers got on the property ladder with a mortgage in the first quarter of 2022.
Quarter This was down from 91,850 in the previous quarter. On average, first-time buyers put down a deposit of around 20% and have mortgage terms lasting around 29 years, according to UK Finance data.
When you want an agent more consistent than the British summer... We’re here. Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or letting this summer, make Winkworth your first call. Winkworth Tunbridge Wells 01892 519600 65 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1XX twells@winkworth.co.uk
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Jack Charles Estate Agents
Sales & Lettings Making our business
all about you
Tunbridge Wells Team 01892 621 721 office@jackcharles.co.uk
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Photography by: David Brooker
London buyers are creating expansion in Crowborough 2008, So David knows a thing or two about volatile housing markets. “It was a bad year in 2008,” he recalled. “But my wife and I had been selling for the past 20 years and had been self-employed since 1998, so we were well-versed in working for ourselves and getting out what we put in.” Having lived in Tunbridge Wells all their lives, David and Suzanne threw themselves into the business, making themselves available seven days a week and outside of office hours. And the agency is named for their three children, Katrina, Marc and Jack. “Two of our children joined us in the business last year, which was part of our expansion plan,” added David. “Meanwhile a lot of our customers have moved to Crowborough over the years.
Prestige
GROWTH: Buyers from London are snapping up properties in the East Sussex town of Crowborough
By Victoria Roberts PEOPLE from London wanting more value for money on their property is seeing an East Sussex town expand, say local property experts. Family-run KMJ Property was founded 14 years ago in Tunbridge Wells, but with rising prices in the Royal Town, an expansion to Crowborough by the business last year has proved to be a good move.
Dynamics “There is an increasing number of people from London and from outside the area, too,” said co-director David Johnson. “Crowborough is an expanding town.” Following the market of the Wealden town for so
“Technology enables us to spread our wings substantially. We have taken on properties in London, Paddock Wood, Maidstone. “We’ve launched a prestige houses brand, for £800,000 and up. We use drone footage, which is a step up from standard marketing. And social media is important. We have more Instagram followers than any other estate agents in the area.”
many years, David has tracked the mixed dynamics of increasing population and increased newbuilding but said the supply-demand balance was tending toward the demand side.
‘Technology enables us to spread our wings substantially’ “Crowborough had the schools and the prestige properties to attract customers, and people were starting to find out about those”, he said. “Crowborough is still better value for money than Tunbridge Wells, but the gap is getting smaller.” KMJ was founded after the financial crisis of
MEET THE TEAM: L-R Lauren Bennison, Sarah Cameron, Suzanne and David Johnson, Katrina Towner and Marc Johnson
People ‘trying out’ Tunbridge Wells is driving a thriving rental market By Robert Forrester PEOPLE looking to buy in Tunbridge Wells are ‘trying’ the town out by renting first, says a leading letting company in the area. TN Lettings was founded by Becky Moran, who was motivated by a bad experience with a letting agency for her own property during lockdown. She took the plunge into lettings, leaning on her background in finance and buy-to-let to set up her own agency in September 2020. She says many of her clients are coming from overseas and are looking to rent in Tunbridge Wells before making the plunge on buying a house. She told the Times: “I understand sales, but letting is the place where I am comfortable. We let properties and we do a tenant-finding service, but because we’re small and independent, we can make it bespoke according to what’s required. “People ‘trying out’ the area is a main source (of business) for us. There is a very large influx from
South Africa and Hong Kong. “And currently, we have people from Bromley, Chislehurst and Croydon who have just got their 11-plus results. They have got a place (at a Kent grammar school) but need to prove an address locally to keep that space. “Recently, I had a property in Tunbridge Wells with eight viewings and not one person was from the local area. Meanwhile, there is a slight supply of family homes from people moving abroad – the High Net Worth people who have signed a contract for two to three years,” she added. “I’ve had two lets in the last couple of months who are going to work in America.”
Squeezed The supply of rental properties in the local area is also being squeezed by landlords selling up, she said. “A lot of landlords are selling to take advantage of high prices, and although they used to be able
to offset mortgage interest against tax, they cannot do that any longer, and so it is less attractive to have buy-to-lets than it used to be.”
Combination The traditional class of renters is still here in the area, but are also being squeezed by prices and availability, she said. “Three years ago, a one-bed flat was £650 or £700 a month. The same is now £900, £950.” “A lot of young people may now stay at home – that’s probably the preferred option – or they are renting with friends to make it cheaper.” The combination of variety and sense of place comes to a head in the agency’s social media strategy, said Becky, whose clients with property to let are seeking local recommendations. “A lot of enquiries come in via Facebook, believe it or not. Facebook and all the mum sites, or Nextdoor. We do use Instagram, but it’s not really localised enough.”
LETTINGS EXPERT Becky Moran
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Property special
35
No fees offer to celebrate estate agent’s 40th office A LETTINGS agency is offering no fees to anybody that wishes to rent a home through them to celebrate the firm’s new office opening. Langford Russell opened up their latest office in Sevenoaks town centre back in early May, it was the 40th branch of the wider London and Kent-based property group, Acorn.
Special To celebrate this monumental number, the new office is running a special offer to sell or let any property instructed with them before the June 30, 2022, with absolutely no fees whatsoever. For anyone thinking this all sounds too good to be true, the group also a posted a short interview on their website with Chairman, Robert Sargent, who said: “First of all, there’s absolutely no catch. Secondly, and most importantly, we will
throw the kitchen sink at the sales and marketing of our clients properties. “It’s our chance to introduce ourselves to the property-owning public of Sevenoaks, and they don’t really have to take a chance with us — we’re offering everything we’ve got, at no charge.” Branch manager Paul Reid added: “This offer also includes lettings properties. “Whether you’re a first-time-landlord, or have an extensive portfolio, we’ll take them all on with no fees for 12 months, including let-only, rent-collection, or even fully managed.” If you’re interested in taking up the offer though, you’ll have to move quick as time is running out. In order to qualify, you must instruct the agency before 30th June 2022. Find out more at langfordrussell.co.uk/ sevenoaks or contact the team directly on 01732 443 333 / sevenoaks@langfordrussell.co.uk.
Company formed at start of the pandemic expands further JACK Charles Estate Agents was founded in Tonbridge in March 2020, just days before the world changed due to the Covid pandemic. However, with a shared ambition to revitalise the estate agency industry - and a committed and motivated team - they say they were well positioned to respond to the unprecedented levels of business that the stamp duty holiday and the lockdown experience drove. As an independent, Jack Charles was able to respond quickly and invest in their most
important asset during this frenzied period: growing their team of 15. The company has now old over 300 properties locally in the last couple of years.
Duration Their motto ‘making our business all about you’, reflects them being the type of business a client needs them to be for the duration of the transaction and beyond. “To deliver on that
NEW OFFICE Langford Russell’s new premises consistently, Jack Charles needs to be able to communicate with clients their way, including face to face, which is why the business is opening a new agency in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, this summer,” reveals a company spokesperson. The estate agency’s view is that following double digit increases in property values since 2020, this growth will most likely slow through the summer, as inflation and interest rates find their limits. However, Jack Charles remain extremely confident for the future, whilst there is such extensive unsatisfied demand, still underpinning property values in the local market. The spokesperson adds they remain as committed as ever to serving the residents of Tunbridge Wells on their individual property journeys. To find out more call: 01892 621 721
Commercial property market remains ‘very active’ Sussex based commercial agent Chris Lawson of Lawson Commercial, who has been in the business over 30 years, reports that the commercial property market remains incredibly active locally despite what is going on in the world. Mr Lawson said: “Even with the cost of living increases, petrol prices rising, the UK political situation and the war in Ukraine demand for commercial buildings in the Southeast is holding up very well and values are being maintained and increasing in certain sectors.
Workshops “The sector which has proved most buoyant is industrial where the demand for workshops, warehouses and any form of building which can
be described as an industrial unit is absolutely huge and there is a terrific shortage throughout the area of this type of buildings,” explained Mr Lawson. “This high demand and lack of supply is leading to record rents being achieved and some fairly eye-watering prices for freeholds.
Widespread “The demand for shops in smaller towns such as Uckfield, Crowborough, Heathfield, Hailsham, Battle, Forest Row, Wadhurst and Mayfield remains very strong in comparison with the bigger towns such as Tunbridge Wells, Eastbourne and Brighton.
Retirement developers open new later living village in Sevenoaks Wildernesse House in Sevenoaks comprises 23 apartments in the main house all with individual layouts and features, and also eight newly built mews houses. It has been transformed by Elysian Residences, who are also redeveloping the former site of the Arriva bus depot in St John’s in Tunbridge Wells. At Wildernesse House all the properties benefit
SPRAWLING Wildernesse House
from use of on-site five-star hotel style facilities, including the Great Hall with bar and lounge; a library curated by award winning Sevenoaks Bookshop, the Pavilion restaurant and health spa with swimming pool and treatment rooms. It is set in 24 acres of gardens and grounds. Elysian Residences’ Chief Executive Officer, Gavin Stein, said: “Setting a new benchmark for
“It seems to be a widespread trend for residents to support the shops in their local communities rather than travelling to the bigger urban centres.” Lawson Commercial would welcome hearing from anyone, whether an owner or landlord, who has a commercial building and is looking for a new occupier CHRIS LAWSON as it has a great shortage of (and colleague) stock to offer and many enquiries. quality and lifestyle, Wildernesse House is a classic English country house transformed into the most exceptional retirement community in the Home Counties. “With its 700 years of history, grand rooms and beautiful grounds, Wildernesse House provides a unique opportunity to live in either a modernised period apartment or a new build property.
Approach “What makes Wildernesse House so special is that it is staffed by a superbly well-trained Elysian team whose purpose is to provide matchless day-to-day service and a warm personal approach which sets Elysian Residences apart and makes this magnificent estate home.” Prices at Wildernesse House start from £970,000 for an apartment in the main house and £1,150,000 for a mews house, with the new builds available from 2023 priced from £580,0000 (other fees also apply). For further information please contact Elysian Residences at Wildernesse House Tel: 020 3918 7997 or visit: wildernessehouse.com
Housebuyers flock to ‘Little London’
CREATIVE Interior design touches by SGS Design A DESIGN and creative architectural interior design studio in Tunbridge Wells said the town is now referred to as ‘Little London’. Established by Sophie Stevens in 2010, SGS Design creates fashionable interiors, suited to relaxed family living and entertaining. Ms Stevens says Tunbridge Wells is now often referred to as ‘Little London’ in their industry due to the influx of new buyers to the local property market. “There is a race from crowded London-living, in search of larger family homes with outdoor space and a dedicated home office area,” she said. “Tunbridge Wells homeowners are a delight to work for as they seem to be confident in their own style and passions, their homes are an extension of their personality and are fully lived in and enjoyed by their families.”
Important She explained there were a few tips to selling a home in the area, saying: “Some ideas that you can expand on include making a good first impression - that’s always important. And the entrance hall is a great opportunity to make a statement and set the tone for the house. “Essential to a successfully designed hallway is a robust hall table. Traditionally topped in timber or marble, the table will need to withstand keys and general household life. “Practical consideration needs to be given to hallway lighting: Layering decorative pendants, wall lights and lamps, provides the opportunity to illuminate stairs and corridors, but also provide atmospheric lighting for evening guest arrivals. “Finally, in addition to coat storage and a large statement mirror, an upholstered stool or bench to perch on, is always welcomed to avoid the awkward yoga poses required to put on and removing shoes. “Every home is individual, we are client-led with our design approach and establishing a clear understanding of the individual client’s design aspirations and lifestyle is essential. “We use our knowledge of suppliers and design experience to refine the client’s vision into something which hopefully exceeds their expectations.”
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
D 3 ea 0 t dl hJ in u e n al e m 20 os 2 th 2 er e!
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Sell or let your property with no fees!* To celebrate the opening of our new Langford Russell office in Sevenoaks, we’re offering our premium estate agency service, with absolutely no fees. To take advantage of this limited-time offer, you’ll need to act fast, and instruct us to sell or let your property before the deadline of 30th June 2022!* Contact us today for your free sales or lettings valuation.
*TN1-TN16 postcodes only, other terms & conditions apply.
01732 443 333 | 68b High Street, Sevenoaks TN13 1JR
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Property special
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Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Letters
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
NEWS
39
And another thing… This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or you can write to the Editor, Times of Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG
Time to revamp the Chalybeate Spring It is my understanding that Targetfollow as owners of the Commons [and The Pantiles] leased the springs to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. As they are a major tourist attraction as healing waters why are the Council not ensuring that they are kept in a hygienic state, and when will dippers be back to dispense samples at a small cost? Victor Webb Tunbridge Wells
Keep ticket offices open Train ticket offices at local stations like High Brooms play a crucial role for passenger safety and information and should not be shut down. The staff are always polite, friendly, and helpful, They cannot be fully replaced by automated machines, which can break down and must be maintained. Also, for disabled people like me, the presence of staff to help passengers on and off trains and up and down steep steps is important. Even with lifts and bridges, on which we expect work to start on soon at High Brooms station at long last, the staff are vital to ensure safety and maintain the cleanliness of the station platforms and their surroundings. Dr Alan Bullion Southborough Labour Town Councillor Calverley could be right I normally require a stiff drink before I work my way through Calverley’s half-baked, reactionary drivel, so I was surprised and pleased to find myself in agreement with them last week. When talking of our MPs vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister, they made the observation that, following the spectacular decline of the Tories and rise of the Lib Dems on the Council, there was a very real chance that Tunbridge Wells could see a Liberal Democrat MP following the next election. This reflects a general trend of massive increases of support for the Lib Dems on the periphery of major cities and in rural areas. People here recognise that we offer a progressive, open-minded and credible alternative to the Conservatives, in places like Tunbridge Wells. Unlike Labour and other third parties, we really can win here. Rob Wormington Lib Dem Councillor - St James’ ward Editor’s note: Calverley is taking a short break this week but will return... Nobody can understand Boris It is said that to be a Conservative one has to follow the words and deeds of Boris Johnson and that not to be a Conservative one has to listen and understand the words and deeds of Boris Johnson.
On this definition, I fear that the Conservative Party will dissolve into dust for no honourable person can listen and understand what Boris Johnson says and does and then vote Conservative. Alexander Magnus Tunbridge Wells PM signed NI treaty When Boris Johnson signed the Northern Ireland Protocol as part of the Brexit deal did he have his fingers crossed behind his back? Did he think that he could come back and rework it? Had he not learned that the EU - led by France, is puritanical about the Treaty? Even Sam Goodenough’s dog knows that. Did he think he’d get away with it? Does he not now realise that in abrogating the treaty this
Activists and lawyers wrong on Rwanda Britain has effectively ceased to be a democracy. Despite the fact that the people voted in the EU referendum, and at the 2019 general Election, to take back control of our country, particularly its borders, a combination of activist lawyers and left wing judges, domestic and foreign, have prevented the implementation of the government’s policy aimed at stopping illegal immigration across the Channel. Thousand of primarily economic migrants are fleeing France, a safe country, in order to jump the queue of those genuinely seeking asylum, ironically in breach of the international laws which their accomplices are so keen to claim
PEPPY SAYS...
CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)
A thank you for your coverage Just a quick note to thank you very much for the terrific piece about Tonbridge Music Club in June 15 edition of the Times of Tunbridge Wells. I love the way you have laid it out. It really gets our 60th anniversary off to a great start! Rachel Davies Tonbridge Music Club
country’s word is not worth the breath of its utterance, let alone its signature on a document? That’s one side of the argument and it’s hard to refute. The other side is: what country would sign a treaty that allows part of it to be governed by another, to be subject to a foreign court. What sort of a politician would put his name to that? At least with Putin you know where you stand: he did not sign the Minsk Agreement following his annexation of Crimea, so no one should have been surprised that he continued his adventures in Ukraine. Johnson did sign so we must draw comparisons. His final shameful act for this week is the plan to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda. I rarely, if ever, agree with the Prince of Wales, but his view that this act is ‘appalling’ is right. I am doubly shamed as an Englishman. Edward Baker Tunbridge Wells
should be paramount. Those crying crocodile tears over the rights of those capable of paying large sums of money to criminals in order to undermine our right to determine who shall be permitted to live in our own country, should reserve their sympathy for their own compatriots in depressed areas, particularly in the North, who see their slim chances of decent employment compromised by tens of thousands of people prepared to accept lower wages, at the same time as we are enduring a lack of such vital services as GPs, and sufficient housing stock. Colin Bullen Tonbridge Carbon-free energy is fanciful Is it to be hoped that the war in Ukraine leading to the rocketing costs of food and fuel have finally shaken people out of their wokist torpor, their right-on pursuit of fanciful dreams of carbon-free energy today, or at least, tomorrow? No gas, no oil, no nuclear, no nuffin’. It is a very sad wake-up call though. The decision to go ahead and drill for oil in the Surrey Hills is to be welcomed and I hope it will herald the start of a serious approach to the nation’s need’s rather than pandering to an unrepresentative minority with a disproportionately loud voice allied to antisocial behaviour. Ralph Steerpike Tunbridge Wells It’s time to make a stand Did you know that one in seven diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year die within two months after diagnosis? We are being failed. Enough is enough. On Tuesday, June 28 I am marching to No 10 Downing Street, alongside Target Ovarian Cancer campaigners, to hand in our open letter signed by 20,000 people. Together, we’re demanding the government takes action on the awareness crisis in ovarian cancer. In 2019 I was working long hours in the City of London. With a daily commute, busy lifestyle and regularly visiting my sick mum, I was tired. But, like many women, I ignored this and continued on. Then one night, I felt a painful lump in my tummy. It was a tumour. I was later diagnosed with stage IIIa ovarian cancer. For me, ovarian cancer affected my whole body. My right leg bloated due to deep vein thrombosis and a clot on my lung was discovered. I had intense surgery to drain my kidneys and remove the tumour, as well as a total hysterectomy and many other procedures. I then underwent six rounds of chemotherapy. Ovarian cancer changed my life, and with no screening in place it is essential that we are all armed with awareness of symptoms. This means the cancer can be found earlier, and outcomes are significantly improved. No one should die because of a late diagnosis. Four out of five women cannot name the key symptom of ovarian cancer, bloating. This needs to change. I’m writing to ask your readers to take just two minutes of their time to learn the symptoms and spread the word to their families and friends: persistent bloating, feeling full or having difficulty eating, tummy pain, and needing to wee more often or more urgently. Become part of this movement to make change happen in government today by campaigning to improve the lives of people affected by ovarian cancer. Catherine Hunt, Target Ovarian Cancer
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Life&Times
ARTS • BOOKS • GOING OUT • FOOD • EVENTS • ANTIQUES • TRAVEL • PROPERTY • LIVE MUSIC and MORE...
Arts - P42
Food - P48
Antiques - P52
Noteworthy date for your diary... Your chance to catch Café Society live at Salomons Food P50
Arts
arts
42
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
“We’re so incredibly proud to have this great opportunity to bring one of the 20th century’s most celebrated artists to Tunbridge Wells...” The inaugural art exhibition at the new Amelia Scott cultural centre in Tunbridge Wells features some of the fascinating work done by sculptor Henry Moore during his prolific career. Entitled Threads of Influences it showcases the artist’s early life drawings and carvings to some of his final prints. Eileen Leahy speaks to the show’s curator Ed Liddle about why he commissioned it and what visitors to the museum have enjoyed about it so far
W
hen The Amelia opened on April 28 it did so with an impressive exhibition: Threads of Influence which features the talented work of legendary sculptor and artist Henry Moore. On until July 3 - and with two special workshops coming up on June 18 and July 2, more of which later - we thought it would be good to talk to the show’s curator Ed Liddle in more detail about the touring exhibition which demonstrates the multiple facets of Moore’s practice and reveals how disparate cultures and contexts informed him…
‘The exhibition offers multiple perspectives on Moore’s work and there are new discoveries to be found’
SHOWTIME The current Henry Moore exhibition
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Arts
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Let’s start by you telling us a little bit about your role at The Amelia Scott? I am the Exhibitions Officer for The Amelia Scott, I work to organise and curate the temporary exhibitions that take place at The Amelia Scott - in the Temporary Exhibition Space, Green Room and anywhere else that the service needs. How did the Henry Moore exhibition come about? For the first exhibition at The Amelia Scott, we felt that it was a great opportunity to bring one of the 20th century’s most celebrated artists to Tunbridge Wells. Henry Moore: Threads of Influence is on loan from the Sainsbury Centre, which is an art gallery and museum located on the campus of the University of East Anglia. The works were purchased throughout a lifetime of friendship with Henry Moore by the original collectors the Sainsbury’s (yes, as in the Sainsbury’s supermarket chain). The works in the exhibition we are currently showing at the Amelia Scott are therefore a unique selection taken from throughout Henry Moore’s artistic career.
‘Moore’s work appeals to people for different reasons, he was a wonderful draughtsman and of course a sculptor’
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Has it proved to be a popular show to see at the Amelia Scott? It has been fantastic welcoming visitors to the exhibition and feedback has been so positive with lots of people commenting on how wonderful it is to have Henry Moore artworks in Tunbridge Wells!
Inspiring It has also been delightful to welcome younger visitors into the exhibition and during the most recent Discovery Days (free family drop in activities), families have been exploring the works in the exhibition and making their very own Henry Moore inspired drawings. Can you tell us more about these Discovery Days that focused on Moore’s work? Our learning team did an amazing job of telling the stories from the works in the exhibition to audiences, and it has been wonderful to see a range of people engaging with the exhibition. Moore’s work appeals to people for different reasons, he was a wonderful draughtsman and of course sculptor, the exhibition offers multiple perspectives on his work and there are new discoveries to be found, including several prints. Lots of people didn’t know he experimented with print making throughout his life! You’ve also led some curator talks on the exhibition since it’s been on. Can you tell us more about these? Each one has seen visitors adding their own personal perspectives of
PRINTS PERFECT Some of Moore’s early artwork what the work of Henry Moore means to them. His work can be found across the UK, therefore lots of people have personal connections to him and his work, perhaps walking past one of his public sculptures each day to work, or
seeing him on the TV. Art has the potential to connect us all and Moore is no different. How long will it run for and are there are any never-seen-before pieces? Although the large sculptural work of Henry Moore is quite well known, the exhibition offers insights into several other aspects of his work. The exhibition contains several drawings made by him during the Second World War. It was important for me to ensure that these powerful works had adequate space in the exhibition in order for visitors to experience them in the best way possible.
Talented They form the centre of the exhibition and are not only exquisite drawings, but are works of historical importance, marking a time in history. What other exhibitions do you have in the pipeline? Opening on July 21 is Cabaret Mechanical Marvels, a wonderfully entertaining exhibition featuring mechanical automata. Intricate handmade works by master crafts people, featuring a range of different characters and which all move on the touch of a button! And in October we have Body Beautiful (produced by National Museums Scotland), which features the work of contemporary fashion designers, and focuses on diversity in the fashion industry. All of the exhibitions will be accompanied by a programme of events, so keep an eye on the Amelia Scott’s website and social media pages to stay up to date. We have some wonderful plans and can’t wait to welcome you to The Amelia Scott in the next weeks, months and years. Threads of Influence is on every day until July 3.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
CREATIVE ENDEAVOURS Moore’s sculptures
On June 18 and July 2 there will be two very special ticketed full day artist workshops as part of the debut Henry Moore exhibition at the Amelia Scott in central Tunbridge Wells. The day will include specialist talks on Moore’s drawing and sculpture by fellow artists Tim Patrick and Bill Hudson. Please meet in the Upper Atrium at 9.30am for both courses. Full info and tickets at theamelia.co.uk/whats-on
Books
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Times book reviewer
HANNAH KIRSOP
Hannah Kirsop grew up in Kent and now lives in Horsmonden with her family. She loves to read and share recommendations and runs Bainden Book Club for a group of local women to discuss interesting fiction and non-fiction in a range of genres. You can find www.baindenbookshelf.com online or on Instagram: @baindenbookshelf
Times Book Club Review
45
SCOTTISH SUMMERS
CHILDISH REIMAGINING
Summerwater by Sarah Moss
Sisters by a River by Barbara Comyns
Published by Picador, priced £8.99
Published by Virago, priced £9.99
Set over the course of 24 hours on a driech summer’s day in a holiday park neighbouring a Scottish loch, this novella is akin to a series of short stories as, chapter by chapter, Moss gently profiles the guests in each of the cabins – their lives, loves, regrets and desires, and – to a small extent – their thoughts on others with whom they have limited interaction. Each of the 12 characters is at a different stage of their lives – a retired couple, families with children of varying ages, teenagers and young children – and each offers a different take on the day with the deliberations of the mother debating how best to spend an hour to herself being a highlight…and very familiar! A hugely atmospheric book that belies its small size written by a skilled storyteller.
Written from the perspective of a young girl in a naïve style with age-appropriate language, structure and spelling, this semiautobiographical novel about Comyns’ chaotic and bittersweet upbringing is far from being twee. In fact, the childish style only serves to deepen the impact of the adults’ actions on Comyns and her five sisters – there is a sixth who is not included– in their formative years as the girls were allowed complete freedom in a large country estate, most of the time with little interaction from their alcoholic and – occasionally violent – father and disinterested mother. Originally written as short stories for her children rather than for publication, this is a quirky, rather experimental, book that is largely plotless but with a rather colourful collection of characters including Granny and the Butler/Gardener along with a procession of different nannies and governesses. Worth a read for something completely different.
7/10
8/10
A Terrible Kindness by Jo Browning Wroe Published by Faber & Faber, priced £14.99 Recently qualified embalmer, nineteen-year-old William Lavery, is mid-glass-raise at his celebratory dinner-dance when he is called to assist the authorities in the Welsh village of Aberfan after a period of heavy rain caused an avalanche of coal waste onto a primary school and a row of houses, killing 116 children and 28 adults. The novel – set against the backdrop of this true historical event – probes the impact of this hugely traumatic event on young William, in conjunction with other formative events from his youth, as it considers the crippling PTSD and psychological scars he carries as a result. Touching on difficult themes – dominated by Aberfan but also incorporating sexuality, grief and family relationships – readers have given a great deal of consideration to how Browning Wroe manages her content. Some felt that it has been done sensitively, respectfully and kindly to those who suffered as a
9/10
The bookcase…
result whilst others didn’t appreciate the inclusion of the real-life disaster, feeling that it took advantage of a heart-breaking event to bolster a fictional book. With the inclusion of historical events, there is always a difficult balance to strike in the closeness to reality and opinions will always differ on how things have been interpreted especially when the event is as emotive as Aberfan. For me, the deep pain and suffering of Aberfan was written about sympathetically – whilst integral to the story, it wasn’t indiscriminately featured for dramatic purposes but was rather used sparingly to give foundation, substance and character to William’s suffering, and to offer him some form of salvation at the end. In fact, whilst the spectre of Aberfan overhangs the book, the overall tone is not one of sadness but of love and kindness – not the saccharine kind but the real, raw, positive, supportive, healing and uplifting sort as William traverses
what life throws at him and comes out the other side. Much of this is facilitated through the complementary characters that the author has woven into William’s story – Uncle Robert and Howard, Martin from his school years, Gloria, his mother Evelyn and even his fellow embalmers at Aberfan – who help us understand William’s character, his frailties and the impact on him of the complexity of human relationships. This is an engaging read and there is a real sense of movement to this novel with the mixture of emotions that are played out as
William grows and matures which is amplified by the role that music plays in the story – in his youth, William attends school in Cambridge as a chorister – as the highs, lows and changes of tempo in the story are mirrored in the music that William sings. A lovely additional strand to the novel that provides another dimension to William and to the flow of the book. In summary, an impressive debut novel which deeply interrogates the fallibility of humans and the power of redemption. A worthy first book for the book club!
Next book: Winchelsea by Alex Preston Set on the Sussex coast in seventeenth-century Britain, this swash-buckling historical novel sees a young lady seeking vengeance for her father’s murder by joining a rival gang of smugglers.
Onyeka And The Academy Of The Sun by Tola Okogwu
Here are some more reads to inspire you this week …
Published in paperback by Simon & Schuster Children’s UK, priced £7.99 (ebook £5.99)
Happy-Go-Lucky by David Sedaris Published in hardback by Little, Brown, priced £18.99 (ebook £11.49) In his latest collection of personal essays, humourist David Sedaris employs his usual dry wit to make light of the absurdity of life. The stories meld the mundane, silly and serious. In the essays about his father’s decline, Sedaris appears to be processing their complicated relationship, describing how he was made to feel worthless growing up. The reader might feel as though they are prying into deeply personal territory, and the faults Sedaris points out about those closest to him can make for uncomfortable reading. The author can also seem somewhat out of touch when writing about his multiple properties and taste for high-end fashion. But Sedaris should be commended for not skirting around sometimes ugly truths – and doing so in a highly entertaining way. Review by Sophie Wingate
7/10
Onyeka’s thick, Afro hair is impressive – but it is her biggest insecurity and a source of embarrassment. That’s until the day her superpowers are unleashed, and she discovers she can control her luscious mane with her mind. She is whisked off to the Academy of the Sun, a school in Nigeria where Solari, children with superpowers, hone their skills. Soon, Onyeka is enlisted in a fight alongside her friends to save the Solari – but as she battles with her superpowers and tries to unravel the truth about her father, who can she trust? From the moment you discover Onyeka’s superpower, this actionpacked and fast-paced story has you gripped. Not only is the story empowering, but will resonate with many readers – and it has a tense and twisty plot. Review by Sharron Logan
9/10
PLOT OR NOT?
If you think your land or property has development potential. Why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.
We are always on the lookout for land and property with development potential.
Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings for redevelopment, buildings for conversion or replacement, houses for improvement, large sites on the edge of town, barn conversions, large gardens in residential areas and major regeneration projects.
For more information contact Stephen Donnelly on: 07739 514350 01892 579937
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Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.
Going out
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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JUST FOR LAUGHS
Aimee Cooper
Comedian is calling the shots at Tunbridge Wells Fringe Festival Victoria Roberts looks at some of the local events and activities set to entertain you…
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UNBRIDGE Wells comedian, mother of two and ‘puppet master’ of the irrepressible ‘Kitty Cassis’, Aimee Cooper is facing a whirlpool of work this July, but regrets nothing when she sees comic opportunities multiplying. In the running to be crowned the UK’s top bingo caller in the Dabbers Next Top Bingo Caller 2022 competition, she will then appear at the second TW Fringe Festival, Aimee admits her work diary is getting crowded. After an early period ‘doggedly’ pursuing a comedy career, then having a family, she told the Times: “When I came up for air after having children, I reinvented myself.” Since 2018, she has made her way up to semi-pro. Then, during lockdown, when comedy shifted online, she was able to continue performing while homeschooling her children. “Most comedians hated lockdown, but for me it was a bit of an escape and a chance to continue and progress. “’Kitty’ seems to have boundless energy,” says Aimee of her alter ego. “As soon as I put the
lashes and the wig on, I cast everything else aside.” At Dabbers Bingo, a spokeswoman seconded the character’s spirit, saying: “Kitty stood out to us as she was hilarious and attention-grabbing. Her act is so unique and you can’t help but just warm to her. We like working with comedians, performers, etc., to bring their energy to a bingo show.” London-based alternative bingo hall Dabbers started running its recruitment competitions in 2018. Of the event Aimee says: “I’m up against some really strong talent on July 3.” However, stressing that every opportunity counts in this ‘numbers game’, she adds: “Every little gig I’ve done, I’ve learned something.” As one of the organisers of the TW Fringe (which runs from July 4-17), Aimee is now opening opportunities for others by recruiting performers and acts. “The festival is only in its second year, but we really do hope we have got Tunbridge Wells on the map.” Aimee Cooper and Friends perform in the TW Fringe. See www.twfringe.com
STRICTLY 2020 finalist and EastEnders star Maisie Smith and Strictly 2021 semi-finalist and CBBC Presenter Rhys Stephenson trot the boards of The Assembly Hall tonight [June 22] at 7:30, joined by the show’s professional dancers Neil Jones, Cameron Lombard, Jowita Przystal and Nancy Xu. Trinity Theatre hosts UK and international headline comedian Ria Lina at The Comedy Club this Saturday [June 25]. In 2021 alone, Ria appeared in Mock the Week, Have I Got News for You and Live at the Apollo. Brighton-based Stephen Grant performs at clubs all over the UK and on the international circuit. The Oast Theatre (Tonbridge) sees the start of a week’s run of Alan Ayckbourn’s popular classic ‘Bedroom Farce’ [June 25-July 2]. The cast consists of four couples whose relationships are stretched, ruffled and generally abused during one endless Saturday night, ending with a hilariously touching epiphany. Performances at 7:30 pm (Sunday at 3 pm). Trinity’s Senior Cinema this month features 1953 classic film ‘Genevieve’. Two British couples pit their vintage automobiles against each other in an exciting cross-country race. June 27 at 10:30am.
BEDROOM FARCE
PUNK & Reggae Night is on this Friday [June 24] at The Forum, with Double Barrel, an Ipswich-based five-piece reggae and ska band playing Trojan and ska sets. Also The Sweeney, a Crowborough-based tribute to 1970s classic punk and ska, covering The Damned, Clash, Undertones, Specials, The Jam, Sex Pistol. Doors at 7:30. The Rifles comes to The Forum for an intimate acoustic show, as part of London-based indie rock band’s Summer Shows. With support from James Wood. Saturday [June 25] at 7:30pm. Mock’n’rollers the Counterfeit Stones storm The Assembly Hall on Saturday [June 25] at 7:30pm, giving and getting Satisfaction from the group’s classic repertoire. The Forum’s Stable summer RICHARD DURRANT series continues showcasing up-and-coming Kent and East Sussex bands, with Grace and Danger, Spinner and Splink on Monday night, and Gemini Gemini, Ellie Knight, thascrow and YoungY on Tuesday. Over 16s unless accompanied by an adult. Shows at 7:30pm. Acclaimed guitarist and composer Richard Durrant is on a bicycle-driven musical pilgrimage of the UK, from Orkney to the South Coast. Stopping in Trinity for a concert on Friday [June 24] at 8pm, he will play pieces inspired by Sussex downland, along with Bach. His new album ‘The Sleep of a King’ is inspired by the landscape of the British Isles.
FASTEN your seatbelts for the Soapbox Stars go-kart race at Dunorlan Park this Saturday [June 25] 11am-6pm. Locally handmade racers hurtle down the course, supporting Hospice in the Weald, Nourish Foodbank and Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre. TV chef Rosemary Shrager hosts, with Tom Swift, of Wicked Productions and Clue Cracker, commentating. Pre-booked tickets only. Also on Saturday at 1:30-5pm, Friends of the Earth Tunbridge Wells and Cohesion Plus hold their Great Get-Together, inspired by Jo Cox, a plastic-free picnic in Calverley Grounds with music and activities. Join an intrepid expedition across uncharted territories to discover astonishing and life-like dinosaurs, from Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, Giraffatitan and Microraptor to Segosaurus. On at The Assembly Hall next Tuesday and Wednesday [June 28 and 29] at 4.30pm. The Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival has been extended, and bardic mirth continues with a free ‘Wordplay Fun Day’ takeover of The Forum this Sunday [June 26] at 2pm. All ages welcome, from Early Years readers and writers to KS2/3 poets, while a variety of open mics, panel discussions and performances will keep grown-ups entertained. Grove Bowls Club is holding a free open day on Friday [June 24] at the central Tunbridge Wells grounds (entrance in Norfolk Road, off Claremont Road). All welcome, in flat shoes, from 3-8pm, during working hours or after work. Southborough and District Lions hold their Gala Day this Sunday [June 26] at 1-5pm at Meadows School, featuring classic cars, Punch and Judy, donkey rides, Birds of Prey, dog show, Taekwondo display, stalls and attractions, refreshments, a grand draw and more.
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Food & Drink
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
food & drink
Meet the nutritionist who can help feed good habits for a healthier, happier you… Kathy Mac is a recently published local author who has penned a book entitled Feeding Good Habits which is all about improving your health - and sustaining weight loss. Here she tells Eileen Leahy all about the special 12-week journey she takes readers on to rewire their minds, reset their habits and renew their relationship with food….
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T WAS quite some time ago that I became interested in health, and especially nutrition. My curiosity, however, was propelled forward after contracting a rather unpleasant stomach parasite that I didn’t seem to be able to fully shake off, despite taking medical advice. In desperation, I visited a naturopathic nutritionist for help. An hour later, I had gained a whole array of information and was given some very sound advice to follow in order to tackle the problem. It worked, and I have never looked back… From that point on I made it my mission to learn more about health and healing through nutrition and natural remedies, which led me to start a blog: Your Healthy Self. It was the perfect place for me to share my
A FRESH APPROACH Kathy Mac
findings, and as a natural progression I went on to train as a naturopathic nutritionist age 47 I had finally figured out what I wanted to do!
‘I sensed if I could help people understand why they eat what they eat and take back control, then my clients could gain a more sustainable transformation’ After qualifying I started to see clients. However, unlike other more hands on alternative therapies I soon realised the outcome was not in my
HOUSE CALLS
FOR JUNE IN YOUR AREA There is no obligation to sell, so call Clive Today to arrange a home visit at no charge and at your convenience. He will advise you personally on your items and absolute discretion is guaranteed.
Clive Attrell is back and available throughout Kent & East Sussex for home antiques valuations (Appointment Only)
Call Clive on 07860 942726
SOCIAL DISTANCING FOR SAFETY
GOLD • SILVER • WATCHES REMEMBER CLIVE IS ALWAYS READY TO MAKE YOU A GENUINE NO OBLIGATION OFFER
During appointments hand sanitiser & masks will be used on arrival. Social distancing will also be observed where possible at all times.
TOP PRICES PAID FOR
• GOLD (in any condition) • SILVER (in any condition) • WATCHES (working or not) • COSTUME JEWELLERY • DIAMONDS • SOVEREIGNS • KRUGERRANDS
• COINS • TOYS • GAMES • POSTCARDS • CHINESE CERAMICS • FIGURINES • OBJECTS OF INTEREST
• MEDALS • SWORDS • MILITARIA • CLOCKS • PAINTINGS • BRONZES • PRINTS / BOOKS
K O O B NOW
Clive Attrell is Kent County Council Trading Standards Approved: Reg No 15618
Food & Drink
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
control at all, and once the consultation was over it was then up to my client to take heed of any advice and suggestions I had offered. In most cases this worked out beautifully - many really did start to make better choices and become more empowered to change some of their unhealthy habits. However, I also discovered, as our chats unfolded, that I was giving as much advice on depression, lack of self-worth and other emotional issues as I was about food. It occurred to me that there was consistently a lot more to my clients’ health issues than just what they were eating and drinking. Unchecked emotions, past traumas and lack of confidence all played a part in creating a negative mindset towards eating and food. Collectively it was sabotaging any attempts to get healthy and lose weight and had to be addressed before progress could be made. In essence as a trained naturopathic nutritionist I discovered the way we eat has very little to do with the food, and much more to do with the mind.
really started to take shape, coming together neatly into 12 weekly chapters, with daily insights and tasks to work through. The book
‘In essence as a trained naturopathic nutritionist I discovered the way we eat has very little to do with the food, and much more to do with the mind’ covers topics including The Six Types of Hunger, Establishing Good Habits, Busting Health Myths and The Mainstream Malaise, plus much more. I believe now more than ever our health has been put under the spotlight, and
understandably so. As a nation we are getting bigger and are suffering more ill health than ever before. Our children are becoming addicted to junk food and every event we celebrate has been hijacked by the food industry as yet another money-making ploy.
Endeavours Feeding Good Habits endeavours to address this by gently shifting the reader’s mindset around food and exercise, and creating a greater understanding without adding further confusion to an already difficult topic. Feeding Good Habits: 12 Weeks to Rewire your Mind, Reset your Habits and Renew your Relationship with Food, for Improved Health and Sustained Weight Loss. Available on Amazon, priced £10.99
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GO BANANAS FOR THIS DELICIOUS PANCAKE One of my favourite recipes is this super simple breakfast recipe. It takes just a few minutes to make, is really tasty, healthy and contains two of your five a day – although I subscribe 10 a day in reality! All you need is to mash one medium sized banana in a bowl and mix in a medium to large egg, throw in a few blueberries and cook like a you would a pancake, a few minutes each side. I use coconut oil or butter for this. It is also gluten and dairy free iso will suit a number of people. My youngest son has this for breakfast every morning before he goes to school. It is way better than cereal any day of the week.
Mission I felt I had really stumbled onto something that both our trusted health professionals and well-known weight loss groups barely brush upon. And I sensed if I could help people understand why they eat what they eat, highlight how the food industry is playing on our weaknesses, and how to accept responsibility and take back control, then they could gain a more sustainable transformation than could ever be gleaned from simply telling people what they should and should not eat. I got started with a group of friends on WhatsApp and every Monday morning I posted an insight to trigger a thought process that would help them to rethink their daily habits. It was rarely about food, and the topics ranged widely. The weekly insights started to build up and unwittingly my book started to form. During the first lockdown Feeding Good Habits
ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING
ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING
BENTLEY ENTLEY ’’SS B
ANTIQUES& & FINE FINE ART ANTIQUES ART AUCTIONEERS AUCTIONEERS
ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING
ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING
SATURDAY 4TH SATURDAY 2ND JUNE JULY10AM 10AM
(Please note earlierstarting startingtime time 10am 10am for Furniture) (Please note earlier forSmalls Smalls&&11am 11amforfor Furniture) Full Catalogue & Images Available Online Friday 27th May Full Catalogue & Images Available Online Friday 24th June
QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS
Viewing: Thursday 30th June 9.30am – 5.30pm Friday 1st July 9.30am-5.30pm Saturday 2nd July 9.00am-10.00am (10am Sale Starts)
PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF VIEWING DAYS:
PART OF SEVERAL PRIVATE COLLECTIONS OF PERIOD CHINESE PORCELAIN & WORKS OF ART CONSIGNED FOR THIS SALE
WE WILL BE CLOSED ON THURSDAY 2ND & A FINE 18TH CENTURY BRASS REFLECTING GREGORIAN TELESCOPE BY W.WATKINS, C.1790 EST: £3000-£5000 A 19TH CENTURY CARVED OAK SETTLE EST: £500-£800 FRIDAY 3RD JUNE DUE TO LORENZO QUINN (ITALIAN, B. 1966) - ‘TRUST’, A SIGNED LIMITED THE QUEEN’S PLATINUMEDITION BRONZE SCULPTURE ON MARBLE BASE EST: £500-£800 JUBILEE BANK HOLIDAYS WILLIAM RALPH TURNER FRSA (BRITISH, 1920-2013) – ‘BLACÉ,
A 1934 LEICA III CAMERA & CASE A RARE CHARLES II SILVER MOUNTED TOASTING FORK, C.1680, MAKER ‘WB’ EST:EST: £400-£600 £3000-£4000
AN ANTIQUE CASED TAXIDERMY BUZZARD BY PETER SPICER & SONS OF LEAMINGTON, IN ORIGINAL GLAZED CASE EST: £300-£500
FRENCH LANDSCAPE’, OIL ON BOARD, 20CM X 20CM EST: £400-£600
VIEWING NOW ON: TUESDAY 31ST MAY 1.30PM – 5.30PM
A GOOD COLLECTION OF 18TH CENTURY DRINKING GLASSES (VARIOUS LOTS & ESTIMATES)
PIERRE-JULES MENE (FRENCH 1810-1879) - THREE ORIGINAL BRONZE SCULPTURES, ‘COW & CALF’ EST: £800-£1200, ‘WHIPPETS AT PLAY, GIGI & GISELLE’ EST: £300-£500 & ‘SETTER’ EST: £200-£300 A GOOD GEORGE II SILVER SALVER BY JOHN TUITE, LONDON 1738 EST: £800-£1200
WEDNESDAY 1ST JUNE 9.30AM-5.30PM SATURDAY 4TH JUNE 9.00AM-10.00AM
A BOTTLE OF MACALLAN 25 YEAR AN 18CT YELLOW GOLD, AMETHYST & DIAMOND OLD ANNIVERSARY MALT SINGLE A GOOD QUALITY GOOD QUALITY 19TH CENTURY INLAID 19TH CENTURY REPEATER AN 18TH/19TH CENTURY & LATER NECKLACE (PART OF A GOOD LARGE PRIVATE JAMES WILSON CARMICHAEL (1800-1868), ‘SEASCAPE’, OIL ONMAHOGANY CANVAS, 30CM X LONGCASE HIGHLAND SCOTCH WHISKY, IN CARRIAGECLOCK CLOCK BY ATTRIBUTED TO PAUL GARNIER, RONNIE & REGGIE KRAY –CABINET A COLLECTION PAINTINGS, A GEORGIAN BRASS LANTERN CLOCK BY OF JEWELLERY IN THIS SALE) CASED ZANZIBAR ON STANDOF ORIGINAL COLLECTION 35CM (PART OF A GOOD COLLECTION OF 19TH CENTURY ART FROM A DECEASED WOODEN PRESENTATION CASE EST: INSCRIBED C.F. WASSELL, 43 FENCHURCH STREET, A 19TH CENTURY ANGLO-INDIAN COLONIAL CARVED & PIERCED SIDE CABINET HAND WRITTEN LETTERS, OFFICIAL PRISON DOCUMENTATION & T. DADSWELL OF BURWASH (EAST SUSSEX), GEORGE III INLAID & CROSS-BANDED MAHOGANY SERPENTINE JAMES SCHOLEFIELD OF LONDON EST: £400-£600 EST: £750-£1000 ESTATE IN THIS SALE) EST: £800-£1200 £2000-£3000 LONDON EST: £250-£350 EST: £500-£800 OTHER EPHEMERA EST: £500-£1000 PAIR OF GEORGIAN FRUITWOOD WINDSOR CHAIRS EST: £400-£600 WITH LATER OAK BRACKET EST: £300-£500 FRONTED SIDEBOARD, 136CM WIDE (4’ 6”) EST: £200-£400 EST: £500-£1000
PARKING SALE CRANBROOKSSCHOOL CHOOL CAR AR P ) COURTESY OFOF CRANBROOK SCHOOL PARKING ON ON DAYDAY OF OF SALE ININ CRANBROOK PARK ARK((OPPOSITE OPPOSITE ) COURTESY CRANBROOK SCHOOL
The OldGranary, Granary,Waterloo Waterloo Road, Road, Cranbrook, 3JQ The Old Cranbrook,Kent KentTN17 TN17 3JQ
Telephone: 01580 715857 E-mail: E-mail:enquiries@bentleyskent.com enquiries@bentleyskent.com Visit Telephone: 01580 715857 Visitusus@@www.bentleysfineartauctioneers.co.uk www.bentleysfineartauctioneers.co.uk
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Food
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
A jazz and BBQ night that will get your summer sizzling By Molly Miller IF YOU are looking for a top-notch dose of jazz in Turnbridge Wells, then Café Society is back by popular demand for an evening of all-time favourite jazz classics and chart-toppers. Played live by four talented musicians, all perfectly harmonised with the beautiful vocals of jazz duo Allya and Rio, this event is set to be an evening you won’t want to miss. Returning on July 23 to local venue Salomons Estate, which is run by Elite Leisure Collection, owner of One Media, publisher of the Times, Café Society’s schedule includes top hits from modern favourites such as Amy Winehouse.
Alfresco So, warm up those vocal chords – with an inventory of dance-inducing tunes, Café Society’s two, 45-minute performances will get you on your feet and shaking a leg or two. If Kent’s most talked about jazz group wasn’t enough to get you penciling this event into your diary, a little alfresco dining overlooking 36 acres of beautiful gardens certainly will.
Upon arrival, ticket holders will be greeted with a glass of Pimm’s before heading over to their table on the terrace. After sipping on the fruity favourite and soaking up some sunshine, a BBQ feast will be served in a sharing-style as Café Society begin to dive into their catalogue of soulful favourites. Diners will be able to indulge their tastebuds to their heart’s content enjoying an array of juicy, chargrilled meats, and flavoursome sides including a Mediterranean salad, Kohlrabi slaw and Cajun fries, which are all included on the menu. But don’t forget to make room for dessert - as a whole assortment of treats is on offer! Guests can choose from sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownies, to pineapple parfait, so there really is a little of everything. Not all good things have to come to an end – what better way to sit back and relax after a night of your favourite jazz music than with a cracking cocktail? Head over to the bar (open until 11:30pm) to enjoy the impressive menu and indulge in a selection of delicious drinks - we highly recommend the pineapple punch!
CAFÉ SOCIETY
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Arrival is from 7pm and entry costs £39.50 per person. Parking is free and on site, and ticket holders will also benefit from a further discount. Salomons Estate is giving 20% off bedroom rates for the night of July 23 if guests would like to extend their experience into a mini get away. So, for a fabulous evening of the best modern jazz, complimented with mouthwateringly good food, email reception@salomons-estate.com or call 01892 515 152 to book.
JOIN OUR WINNING TEAM Based near the historic Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, STEAK restaurant has become a firm favourite with foodies since its opening in August last year. Due to continued popularity we are currently looking to add to our successful kitchen team with Chefs at all levels. We offer a highly competitive salary, great staff perks, free gym membership, joining bonus and the chance to be part of a highly ambitious, independently run local hospitality group. So if you’re looking to take your chef career to the next level, be well rewarded for hard work and creativity whilst being given the opportunity to progress, please drop us a line. Please contact us at marketing@onewarwickpark.co.uk FOR MORE INFO ON THIS POSITION PLEASE SCAN HERE
Rated 4.5/5 on Trip Advisor Recent reviews: “Fantastic all round” “Hidden gem, great food” “Amazing experience” “Excellent Tunbridge Wells restaurant”
Drink
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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By George! It’s time to celebrate English Wine Week … English Wine Week is the national campaign organised by Wines of Great Britain to promote English wines and vineyards. It kicked off last Saturday and runs through to this Sunday June 26. Times Drinks Editor James Viner suggests four top, mouth-watering, locally-made wines to aptly toast the quality of our winemaking superstars
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he English wine industry is on a roll and quite rightly there’s a loud buzz around the thrilling English wine scene right now. There’s lots to discover and enjoy with some 800 vineyards in Great Britain, over 200 of which are open to visitors, offering a wide range of facilities. English Wine Week which is currently on until this Sunday (June 26) is a brilliant opportunity to get involved with the local community and applaud the budding English wine industry. Cheers to grape Britannia! 1. Fresh, aromatic white from the country’s aromatic substitute for Kiwi sauvignon blanc Chapel Down Bacchus 2021 (£12-£16.99, Chapel Down, The Wine Society, Cambridge Wine Merchants & Majestic, 11.5%) The country’s still wines go from strength to strength. Grape varieties such as the earlyripening aromatic German cross Bacchus – the country’s second most planted white grape after Chardonnay – with its taste of nettles, cut grass and hedgerow deliver an idiosyncratic, relatively low alcohol substitute to Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc. This one from Chapel Down is a tongue-tingling, lime, gooseberry, grass and elderflower-scented joy. A summery zinger for alfresco sipping and delicious with sushi, asparagus, raw oysters, fish and chips, simple salads, Thai cuisine, prawns or trout. 2. Ravishing silky red showcasing the potential of Essex’s Crouch Valley – push the boat out! Lyme Bay Pinot Noir 2020, Essex & Devon (£27-£27.99, The English Wine Collection, Grape
Britannia & Lyme Bay Winery, 12.5%) Exquisite savoury, seared pink salmon fillet/ roast beef-loving, floral and red-fruit-scented Pinot Noir from high-quality fruit sourced from vineyards next to the River Crouch in Essex. It’s subtly toned, layered and finely textured with vibrant acidity, subtle spicy oak-derived notes
and soft, supple, silky tannins; the balance and length are nigh-on unimpeachable. A fiesta of finesse, with cooling acidity through the finish. 3. Cornwall’s greatest hit – a paradisiacal pink vintage sparkler Camel Valley Pinot Noir Rosé Brut 2019, Cornwall (£32-£36, Camel Valley & Waitrose, 12.5%)
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This sophisticated pink bubbly has emerged as one of England’s finest. The Lindo family’s stylish, sparkling vintage rosé from north Cornwall is a cracker with a rich tang of wild red berries, especially strawberries and red cherries, plus a touch of lemon sherbet and biscuit. Pour with light canapés, charcuterie, seafood sushi, smoked salmon, fish and chips and Cantonese cuisine. Pink sparkling bullseye brilliance. 4. Luxurious W. Sussex bubbles from the Irish winemaking virtuoso Dermot Sugrue Wiston Estate Blanc de Noir[s] Brut 2014, West Sussex (£50.95-£56, Lea & Sandeman, Swig, Hennings, Hedonism & Wiston Estate, 12%) Irish winemaker whizz Dermot Sugrue was at the Goring family’s Wiston Estate in the heart of the rolling South Downs for 16 years but recently left to focus on his own venture, Sugrue South Downs, as well as continuing to consult for numerous other estates. This rousing release from his back catalogue is a whistle-clean, hedonistic vintage brut, with a cocktail of Seville orange, rhubarb, Braeburn apple and macadamia nut with prodigious length and aftertaste. It will make a superb match for (cold) seafood – think caviar and sashimi. It was left on its lees for around 54 months and will develop new tricks for the patient. A striking, dreamy and lip-smacking sparkler from a ripe vintage. One to celebrate a new job/home or a special anniversary/birthday, perhaps. Super-smart wine, ogling perfection in the eye. Follow #EnglishWineWeek @Wine_GB & James on Twitter @QuixoticWine
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Antiques
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
antiques
Why it's important to reflect on sales
After the dust has settled on another busy auction day at Bentley's, Nick Hall says he likes to revisit his auction sheets and remind himself of which items caused the most interest and flurry of bids. Here he reveals a few of the pleasant surprises that did very well in addition to the usual suspects he knew would fly out of the sales room at the last auction in Cranbrook on June 4...
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he day got off to a flying start early on, with lot 6, a good quality and rather elegant 19th century carriage clock that had come from an equally elegant period town house in Rye, our cataloguers had attributed its fine movement to Paul Garnier, an educated hunch that was proved correct when it sold for £3500 against a cautious estimate of £400/600. Not long afterwards, lot 22 came into
Expert Nick Hall
taxidermist Peter Spicer & Sons of Leamington, it spread its wings and soared way above its £300/500 estimate, finally reaching the dizzy Optimistic heights of £2,200. One of the days Some thought we'd been a bit optimistic pleasant surprises, for with an estimate of £3,000/5,000, but after us and the vendor, was extensive marketing to a worldwide lot 198, catalogued as audience of eager "a large collection of collectors it found a new mainly Dinky toys, die home selling for an cast cars and vehicles, exceptional price of c.1950's/60's, approx £9500. Another rare breed to fly 100 cars, play worn condition", with an (not literally!) was lot 50, estimate of £100/200 a piece of rather good they motored on and on and on to a final taxidermy, a stuffed hammer price of a staggering £2600! and as Buzzard to be precise, one wag commented 'you could buy a real Buteo Buteo to give it its car for that, but maybe not the fuel'!! official title, or, a The market for vintage Whisky is so hot Common Buzzard to you right now that you may need a wee dram to and me, preserved by the keep up with it, as typified with lot 202, a highly regarded single bottle of The Macallan Anniversary 25 'The market for vintage Year Old single malt scotch whisky in original whisky is so hot right now presentation case, which that you may need a wee sold for a sobering £2400. dram to keep up with it' My favourite result of the day was not only the focus, a fine quality late 18th century Gregorian telescope by the highly regarded and very collectable W Watkins of London, which had last surfaced in a Sotheby's sale back in 1985.
Wine & Dine
Savour our locally sourced menu paired with great British wine and celebrate with us! Enjoy a bottle of Flint Valley wine for just £20 when you order two steaks between 23rd-25th June TO BOOK CALL:
01892 552 592 steaktunbridgewells.co.uk @steaktunbridgewells
@STEAKtwells
@steaktunbridgewells
17-19 Chapel Place, TN1 1YQ
biggest surprise of the sale, but also one of the smallest items of the 1000 lots on offer, lot 373 (see photo on left) standing at just 4cm high, this tiny little Russian silver vodka cup didn't look valuable to most people, but it was the miniscule maker's mark on its underside that was key to its success, and told us that the enamel decoration on it was by Feodor Ruckert (1840-1917), a German by birth that emigrated to Russia, and went on to open his own workshop and supply enamelled works of art for the great Faberge.
Whopping It was consigned by a client in Royal Tunbridge Wells that sent in several boxes of unwanted treasures, and after a flurry of frenzied bidding it sold to a client in Europe bidding live online for a whopping £5,500. And now we start to prepare our next sale of treasures and surprises, to be held on Saturday July 2.
Antiques
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
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Tabling valuations for our latest auction Auctioneer Joseph Trinder talks about some of the items going under the hammer at Gorringes
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n today’s market, it is perhaps easy to jump on the bandwagon when it comes to bemoaning the climate for selling good antique furniture. Indeed, alas, dark Victorian and Edwardian mahogany dining tables and bureaus have fallen from their place of reliable prominence seen some 20+ years ago – however this is not the case for all antique furniture. It is true that the auction room today can yield wonderful bargains in unique furnishings with a quality of manufacture and wonderous patina & character that no modern copy can capture – but it is also true that quality, earlier or more unusual pieces of furniture often perform
very well indeed. Here, as ever, I am pleased to walk you through a few favourites which will be offered for sale in our upcoming June 28th Fine Summer Auction at Gorringe’s…
Console The first of two console tables to catch my eye in this sale is lot 309, a Louis XIV period carved giltwood example with a variegated rouge marble top. One of many lots in our summer sale sourced from the property of a Kentish gentleman, it has not been seen on the market for generations and is in a wonderfully original condition – so often such pieces carry later marble tops or have other alterations. A circa 300 year-old statement piece of opulence and high drama. Another giltwood console table from the same impressive property is lot 313, an early 19th century example, marble topped, in the manner of George Bullock – beautifully simplistic in form and highly decorative with its leopard’s head monopodia, it is something of a design classic and should sell for £2,000 or more. A piece I choose again simply because of its
beauty matched with practicality is lot 298 – a George I period figured walnut chest of two short and three graduated drawers on turned feet. Of gorgeous proportions, colour, and character, it has quietly served its owners in succession for over 300 years – a piece which was already a prized antique when used by a long-gone owner in the reign of Queen Victoria.
'A piece which wonderfully illustrates how not all ‘brown furniture’ is languishing on the scrapheap of yesterday’s stars' A piece too which I feel champions the argument for antique furniture - the factors above coupled with its lingering durability and ‘green’ credentials when compared to the cheaper, far
lesser modern equivalents which are massmade with a limited shelf life. Finally, a piece which wonderfully illustrates how not all ‘brown furniture’ is languishing on the scrapheap of yesterday’s stars in the auction word is lot 302. An important 18th century Lombardy ebony banded walnut inlaid pedestal desk, beautifully decorated with scenes of Homer’s Iliad, after original drawings by John Flaxman RA, further inlaid with allegories representing Hope and Faith.
Estimated A piece of superlative quality and beauty – we do not need to mourn its value in today’s market compared to yesteryear’s – estimated to sell between £20,000 and £30,000, it shows how the market today, albeit changed from years ago, will still rally to the call of quality. As always, if you have pieces furniture, or indeed any other antiques or fine art that I may be able to assist in valuing or providing a route to sale – I would love to hear from you.
Watching the price of timepieces advance This week, Alexander Pushkin examines the history of manufacturer IWC - orginally called the International Watch Company - and its renowned contribution to the world of watches
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1990s. The mechanism’s he International Watch exceptional accuracy and Company, also longevity immediately brought known as IWC, is fame to the company. a luxury Swiss Throughout its history, watchmaker IWC has made a number of with headquarters in important inventions that Schaffhausen, became a great Switzerland. Founded in contribution to the 1868, the manufacturer development of has always been watchmaking. In 1985, the recognised as a leading company presented a maker of pilot watches, as perpetual calendar module well as timepieces for – the first module to have all aviation of highest quality. Alexander Pushkin indexes adjustable with the The company was founded by crown. The mechanism recognizes Florentine Ariosto Jones, the number of days in a month over prominent watchmaker and engineer the next 500 years. The mechanism was of American origin and former director of E. supplemented with an exclusive four-digit year Howard & Co. indicator. In 1990, the first complex watch with 9 hands, consisting of 659 parts, was developed, Market which became another breakthrough for the already renowned manufacturer. His intention was to combine Swiss and American The list of IWC’s outstanding developments craftsmanship and experience in horology in order keeps expanding. For instance, in 2003 the to manufacture high-quality watch movements manufacturer presented a watch with the and details for the American market. indication of the phases of the moon in the However, as time went by, the business Northern and Southern Hemispheres expanded, the number of employees rapidly simultaneously - the Portuguese Perpetual increased, as well as the brand’s fame grew, and soon the factory started manufacturing timepieces Calendar. The collection of these timepieces remains one of the most demanded and desired for the global market. 1900 was the year that nowadays. determined the further history of the company. At present IWC has received worldwide It was back then, when wrist watches for the recognition not only due to its exceptional British Royal Navy and the German Imperial Navy were created. In the mid century, the manufacturer timepieces and watch mechanisms of highest quality, but also thanks to its sustainable presented its legendary Caliber 89 movement, development policy. According to the report of which powered the IWC models until the early
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), published in 2018, IWC tops the list of the world’s 15 major watch manufacturers and is the only company examined that has shown active engagement in sustainable development.
Sustainable Along with such iconic Swiss watchmakers as Omega, Chopard and Breitling, IWC stands at the forefront of developing sustainable production and smart consumption policies. Throughout its long and rich history, the company has won the hearts of millions of horology connoisseurs. Its sophisticated watches, especially from limited collections, such as IWC Big Pilots Watch Perpetual
Calendar Edition Antoine De Saint, Portuguese Chronograph Automatic, Leonardo Da Vinci Tourbillon and Da Vinci Split-Chronograph, are in incredible demand. As for the renowned firm’s respect for ecology and its sustainable development policy, this helps attract even more loyal customers and brand fans and friends.
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Motoring
Wednesday June 22 | 2022
Motoring News Bentley Flying Spur S revealed as a new driver-focused saloon BENTLEY has revealed the Flying Spur S, which promises to be the ‘most engaging four-door’ from the brand yet. Following on from the recent reveal of the Continental GT and GTC S, Bentley has now given its Flying Spur saloon the sporty ‘S’ treatment. With a choice of a 542bhp 4.0-litre V8 engine or 536bhp V6 plug-in hybrid, it’s the British brand’s first sporty-focused electrified model too.
22-inch alloy wheels are also fitted, along with red brake callipers. Inside, various two-tone leather and Dinamica fabric interior options are available, with suede also used on the interior. The instrument display has also been updated, with Bentley saying it ‘takes its inspiration from motorsport chronometers’.
Bentley will be showing the Flying Spur S alongside the GT S and GT C at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, which takes place between June 23 and 26. The models can be seen in the supercar paddock, and they’ll also be going up the famous hillclimb alongside a range of past Bentleys as the firm celebrates 40 years of turbocharged models.
Citroen Ami finance deals announced as orders open for the quirky new EV
New Flying Spur
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Clean cabin air system
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Citroen’s quirky Ami
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Skoda’s Air Care battles hay fever
SUMMER can be a nightmare for hay fever sufferers, with high pollen counts contributing to symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and tickly throats. It can also prove a real hazard for motorists. However, Skoda’s Climatronic Air Care system could help these issues by automatically activating the air recirculation function if it detects that pollutant levels have risen. The filter also helps to remove dust particles, allergens and odours from entering the cabin.
Improve Though no more powerful than the standard cars, the ‘S’ gets a number of mechanical changes, including ‘Bentley Dynamic Ride’ to help keep the body flat and stable under spirited cornering thanks to an anti-roll mechanism. Elsewhere, it comes with all-wheelsteering, helping to improve manoeuvrability at low speeds, and then stability at higher speeds. A redesigned sports exhaust is also fitted as standard. As part of the ‘S’ treatment, the Flying Spur is almost fully dechromed, which the firm says makes the car look ‘lower and wider’, while getting dark tinted lights and a black quad tailpipe and a gloss black grille. Bespoke 21- and
This week…
Carbon Should the air recirculation function be activated, it will prevent contaminated air from entering the cabin. Instead, it will clean the internal air through recirculation. During this process, the air is passed through a carbon cabin filter that removes all smaller particles
and – most importantly for hay fever sufferers – pollen. In order to prevent the windscreen from misting up, an air conditioning compressor is automatically activated, with air directed towards the windscreen and windows. If the cabin becomes too humid, the intensity of the air being sent through the recirculation process is increased. A wide variety of Skoda models come equipped with these sensors, including the firm’s Kodiaq, Karoq and Octavia. The Czech firm’s Enyaq iV electric SUV also incorporates the air recirculation system. Skoda has stated that existing owners should ensure that their cabin filters are changed every 18,000 to 36,000 miles to ensure that they are still filtering a high level of pollutants out. The firm suggests replacing them in spring or early summer in order to prepare for the first pollen arrival.
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CITROEN has announced that its new Ami EV will be available from just £19.99 a month as orders open for the vibrant model. Described by Citroen as an ‘electric quadricycle’, the Ami is designed to serve as an alternative to a moped in inner-city areas. The dinky model seats just two people and can be charged with a household plug socket in three hours, giving it a range of 46 miles. Though Citroen was initially unsure as to whether to introduce the model to the UK, around 2,000 have now reserved an Ami with a £250 refundable fee, with customers able to confirm their orders from now.
Citroen has now announced finance offers for the Ami, with the firm offering the model from just £19.99 per month over 24 months, albeit customers will have to stump up a relatively sizable deposit of £2,369.45. At the end of the two-year deal, if a customer wishes to keep their Ami, they’ll have to pay an optional final payment of £5,594.
Couriers Alongside the regular Ami, Citroen is also offering a ‘Cargo’ model that’s designed for inner-city couriers. Citroen UK’s managing director, Eurig Druce, said: “Having Ami in the
UK is crucial, bringing our ‘Power to the People’ brand positioning to life – emphasising that Citroen offers every kind of electric for all kinds of people. “To be able to offer a fun and fabulous all-electric urban transport solution like Ami for just £19.99 per month is something we are really proud of – it is another example of Citroën at its very best, delivering affordable electric mobility for all.” The EV can only be bought online, with Citroen having a dedicated ‘Ami Expert’ team to help process orders. First deliveries of the Citroen Ami are expected in late summer.
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