Times of Tunbridge Wells 23 August 2023

leader quits party to form new independent group

By Lilly Croucher

TENSIONS within Town Hall have led to a split in the Alliance party, as the previous leader stepped down last week and formed a new political grouping.

Former Alliance leader, David Hayward resigned from the party last Wednesday (August 16), admitting that the party’s arrangement with the Borough Partnership was a “mistake”.

In a public statement, Mr

Hayward, the councillor for Pembury ward, said he felt “shackled and subservient to the Lib Dems” under the current arrangement with the Alliance and therefore could not continue his association with the group.

“This situation has unintentionally led to a misalignment with my principles and the core values on which I based my campaign,” he said.

“It is essential for me to remain true to my beliefs and maintain

integrity in my actions as an elected representative.”

In a series of exclusive interviews with the Times, Cllr Hayward explained how he believes the Alliance party is not represented enough inside the Borough Partnership and how he felt they had been “swallowed up” by the Lib Dems.

“I feel the agreement with the Borough Partnership was a mistake

Continued on page 3

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Rail ticket office considered for closure despite being region’s fourth busiest

By Lilly Croucher

THE TICKET office at Tunbridge Wells station is among those to be considered for closure as part of planned cutbacks, despite being one of the most-used in the whole of the Southeastern network.

Research by the Times shows that the local office should remain open, based on the criteria being used by Southeastern Railway to determine which ones should close.

According to Southeastern’s consultation website, 14 of its “busiest stations on the network” will have Travel Centres which are expected to give passengers “travel information and ticketing solutions”.

London Bridge, Tonbridge, Ashford, and Sevenoaks have the first, second, third and fifth most-used ticket offices, respectively, with Travel Centres planned at each of the stations.

Yet, Tunbridge Wells will not be keeping its ticket office and will be up for consultation this autumn despite having the fourth most used ticket office across the network.

In 2022, 54 per cent of tickets were sold directly at Tunbridge Wells station with 29.3 per cent (284,626) sold from the ticket office.

25 per cent (243,002) were sold at a Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) while 45.6 per cent (442,871) were sold online.

MP for Tunbridge Wells Greg Clark spoke with Rail Minister Huw Merriman MP on August 2, and has written to Southeastern to express his opposition to ticket office closures.

Mr Clark said that the figures show that there is no logical case for not providing a travel centre at Tunbridge Wells.

“Although our local stations are not currently being consulted on for closure, I wanted to make it crystal clear to

Southeastern and the Department for Transport that our ticket offices and their staff play a vital role in helping passengers, especially those with disabilities or with complex travel plans. The figures show that Tunbridge Wells station ticket office, in particular, is well used and should not even be considered in any future consultation.”

Reform

Peter Fairweather, a train conductor, originally from Heathfield, East Sussex, told the Times: “I don’t think Tunbridge Wells ticket office should be closing, it is within the top five of Southeastern’s ticket sales, with almost a third using the ticket office compared to the ticket machines or online. “What is first required is ticket reform, to allow for quick and simple ticket purchase where you know how much it will cost and can obtain it easily, and level boarding on newer trains to allow those with accessible needs to be able to board and alight trains independently before we consider reducing ticket offices and staffing.”

Southeastern says just over a quarter of

HOW TO SAVE YOUR TICKET OFFICE…

The first 40 stations inside the London Metro Area are currently under consultation by London TravelWatch, an independent transport watchdog. Future consultations, including on Tunbridge Wells station, will be overseen by Transport Focus, and London TravelWatch as applicable.

Peter Fairweather said: “People have two weeks left to fill in the consultation which is a quick email to highlight how

they’ll be positively or negatively impacted by this change.

“The more people who highlight their individual needs the better.”

To comment on the proposals contact London TravelWatch by Friday September 1 2023 by email at: Southeastern. Consultation@Londontravelwatch.org.uk

Or you can send a letter to RTEH-XAGEBYKZ, London TravelWatch, PO Box 5594, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 9PZ

their tickets are sold at their 142 ticket offices, with this number continuing to get smaller.

This first phase is currently under consultation, with a further 90 ticket offices, including Tunbridge Wells, up for consultation in the autumn. Any changes will take place over the next two years.

David Wornham, Passenger Services Director at Southeastern, told the Times: “We’re currently consulting on the future of 40 ticket offices, mainly within the London Pay As You Go area, with a second phase of consultation due to follow in the autumn, which will include Tunbridge Wells and the rest of our stations in Kent and East Sussex.

“As part of our proposals we’re planning to introduce Travel Centres at 14 of some of the busiest stations across our network. Our aim is to build a better, safer and more accessible railway.

“Every station that’s staffed today will continue to be staffed by colleagues trained to provide more help to customers in more ways, both inside the station and on the platform. In addition, we’ll provide more solutions to customers happy to self-serve, such as eTickets, as well as existing options like The Key,” Mr Wornham explained.

“When the second phase of our consultation opens later this year, we’d invite anyone with a view on the future of ticket offices to submit their views to either Transport Focus or London TravelWatch in the eight-week consultation window. If agreed, the closure of ticket offices would be implemented over a suitable period of time to enable detailed, practical measures to be introduced to support all customers especially those with specific accessibility needs.”

Police appeal after a man dies in Southborough car crash

By Alice Reece

A MAN in his fifties has died and another man is in hospital after being involved in a tragic road traffic collision in Southborough, Tunbridge Wells last week. Police have appealed for more information from witnesses.

The incident involving a pedestrian and a silver Mercedes CLK 320, happened on Thursday, August 17 on the A26 London Road, Southborough, near to Yew Tree Road, about 11.15am.

Police officers and Ambulance crews were called and reportedly arrived on the scene within minutes.

The area was cordoned off by police and the road was closed for several hours.

The pedestrian, a man, died at the scene

and the driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

His next of kin have been informed. Enquiries are being carried out by the Serious Collision Investigation Unit. Kent Police are appealing for witnesses and are urging motorists to check their dash cam footage which could assist an investigation.

Footage can be uploaded via our online portal.

Witnesses can provide information by uploading footage to their portal or by contacting Kent Police on 01622 798538 and quoting reference AH/KA/87/23, or by emailing sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Strike action closes local stations

Railway strikes will affect services over the August bank holiday and the first weekend in September, train operator Southeastern has confirmed.

Action by the RMT union this Saturday (August 26) and next (September 2) will mean no trains at local stations.

Trains will run from London as far as Sevenoaks.

Meanwhile, the ASLEF train drivers’ union is on strike on Friday September 1, shutting down the whole network.

There are no rail replacement buses on strike days.

Man up on stalking and harassment charge

A 36-YEAR old man has been charged with stalking and harassing two women in Tunbridge Wells, following a probe by the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team. The offences were reported to have taken place in the town centre over July and August.

Alexander Johnston, of Dunstan Road, was arrested on August 12 and later charged with stalking and with two counts of harassment.

He was further charged with a failure to comply with notification requirements (in connection to allegations that he failed to disclose information to police as required, concerning the use of three social media accounts).

He was remanded to Medway Magistrates’ Court on August 14, when he pleaded guilty to failure to comply with notification requirements but denied all other charges.

He was bailed to appear before Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on November 27.

Lions to draw crowds with art of kindness

ARTS and crafts are the order of the bank holiday weekend for charitable stalwarts the Southborough & District Lions, who raised nearly £2,000 at the event last year. The annual three-day show on Southborough Common will be attended by well-known locally-based artists including Sarah Mott, Elaine Gill, Steve Everest and Simon Savage.

The group’s charitable activities fund good causes including Hospice in the Weald, Compaid, the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre and more.

Accident in Grove Hill Road injures two

Firefighters were called to a crash in Grove Hill Road last Thursday (August 17) that left one vehicle on its side and a person trapped.

Crews stabilised the vehicles before using hydraulic equipment to allow paramedics and helicopter medics to treat the casualty. No further information on the state of the injured was available.

Councillor breaks away from Alliance

Continued from the front page

[we made] the year before,” he said.

“The arrangement the previous year was, in hindsight, a poor one, and I take full responsibility for that.

“I negotiated the Borough Partnership, which had never been done before, but I should’ve realised we would be swallowed up by them.

“We only chair one committee on the whole Council and our group leader [Cllr Matthew Sankey] isn’t even on the cabinet, which is bizarre.

“The group leader of a represented party should be there to make decisions.

“Part of the Borough Partnership agreement outlines the notion of collective responsibility and a requirement to explain yourself if you disagree.

“I regard this as proto whipping, completely against my principles as an independent and I was not elected to be a gagged and handcuffed passenger on a Lib Dem bus.

“I was elected as an independent, free from Westminster politics.”

Ousted

Despite voicing his concerns, Cllr Hayward was “gobsmacked” that the Alliance has rejoined the Borough Partnership after the most recent election in May, the same day he found out he had been ousted as leader.

He told the Times: “I don’t know [why the Alliance rejoined]. Maybe it’s ‘Nick Clegg syndrome’. Either way, I had not been invited to the discussions since the election in May.

“If I was still the group leader for the Alliance at the election, I would not have re-joined the Borough Partnership. There is no good reason, for residents or the Borough, for us being inside the group.

“Drawing us into an even worse deal than the year before was clearly motivated by what we had seen the previous year, a requirement to claim all good outcomes as ‘Lib Dem’ achievements.

“Clearly now motivated by national requirements to get their parliamentary candidate’s public image in a position to claim any successful outcomes, residents, as usual, are secondary to party.”

Responding to the claims, a Tunbridge Wells Lib Dem spokesperson said: “The resignation of David Hayward is an internal party matter for the Tunbridge Wells Alliance. We wish David well in his future endeavours.”

When asked of his relationships with his former party, Cllr Hayward said: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to The Alliance for the support and opportunities it has provided during my time as a member.

“I have learned some very valuable lessons and made cherished memories during this journey.

“After the election I was outed as leader of the Alliance, which is when I disengaged from the whole thing.

“I don’t think this is a surprise to anyone, Nick [Cllr Pope, Alliance party chairman]

did ask me to reconsider but I think he realised I wasn’t going to change my mind.

“I’m not sure what their [the Alliance] reaction has been, but we are still close. I have only lost the party, not my friends.”

The Alliance party have been approached for comment.

Stepping away from the Alliance, Cllr Hayward says he is positive abut the future with the introduction of his new party, ‘Independents for Tunbridge Wells’.

He explained his party will be an “umbrella organisation for other local independents” and that he “won’t be alone”.

The party is expected to have an emphasis on “infrastructure before planning, not building on the greenbelt and changes to the local plan which he believes is ‘not fit for purpose’”.

“National politics at a local level doesn’t work. The party will be a mechanism for proper representation in the council.”

On the party logo’s resemblance to the Amelia’s logo, Cllr Hayward said: “It shows all the political parties coming together but I think it looks more like the Pink Floyd album [Dark Side of the Moon], but any likeness is purely accidental.”

Searching for a gorilla in our midst

By Grace Corcoran

ONE Warwick Park Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, is on the search for its golden gorilla, which was stolen from the bar by two women on a night out.

The hotel bar’s iconic primate statue was snatched on Friday August 18 at around 10.30pm. Two women, caught on CCTV, entered the hotel lounge bar, enjoyed a few drinks and posed for photograph with the gorilla.

Affinity

Having seemingly developed an affinity for the gorilla, the women were captured on film leaving the bar shortly afterwards with the gorilla as they headed down Cumberland Walk.

At 11.30pm, an off-duty staff member of the One Warwick Park Hotel recognised and photographed the gorilla brazenly perched on a table in the Bedford Pub on the High Street, next to one of the suspects.

The gorilla statue, which is embellished

DO YOU RECOGNISE THE WOMEN IN THESE PICTURES?

Were you out in Tunbridge Wells town centre last Friday? Did you see a golden gorilla being taken on a bar crawl? Let us know if you have any news…

with golden balls and sits in a classic ‘knuckle-walking pose’ is around 1.5ft tall and worth about £200.

A hotel spokesperson said: “For safety and security we have over 70 CCTV cameras covering both the inside and outside of the hotel. The guests who appear to have stolen the statue were picked up by a number of these cameras.

All the footage and information has been passed to the police.”

An appeal for witnesses to the gorillanapping has been launched. The hotel is hopeful that the gorilla will be safely returned home so he can be put back on the bar in his pride of place.

Anyone with information about the gorilla can contact reception@ onewarwickpark.co.uk

STATE OF INDEPENDENCE: David Hayward and (right) his new party logo

Tunbridge Wells Pride returns after year’s hiatus for a day of celebration

By Grace Corcoran

THE streets were filled with festivity as the LGBTQIA+ community came together to support Tunbridge Wells Pride across the town last Sunday (August 20).

Poignantly, the LGBTQIA+ community also used the opportunity to celebrate trans rights pioneer and former Tunbridge Wells Borough Councillor Mark Rees, who died on July 26.

The day opened with a march from The George pub down to The Forum, with rainbow flags and banners filling the streets.

The Forum hosted the event, with live DJs, entertainment and drag performances from Dermot O’Dreary, Miss Luna Lestrange and many more. A ‘cheesy disco’ after-after party was held at the nightclub, Aura, for those wanting to celebrate into the early hours.

Southborough Town councillor Alan Bullion (Labour) said: “It was well attended and we had a good crowd. We did the traditional walk from St George’s pub to The Forum. Lots of local groups were there with stalls, including the Soroptimists, DAVSS and Amnesty.

“There was dancing and entertainment and a good time was had by all.

“Pride is back on the map in Tunbridge Wells – it’s been a couple of years. Good on the Forum and all the other participants who made it a success.”

The weather held out for the event, with

TIME FOR PRIDE:

Families enjoy last weekend’s event at The Forum

people enjoying live music on the grass outside The Forum.

Amelia Turner, 20, who travelled in from Edenbridge to celebrate the day, said: “We arrived late afternoon, had a couple of drinks and enjoyed the vibe of the music playing outside The Forum – they were playing some classic throwbacks!

“We then went to the over-18s part inside The Forum, and it was a blast! Live music, comedy, drag performers and more.”

Local businesses and charities came along to support this year’s Pride, the first event in two years after last year’s event was cancelled.

Harley Seymour, Co-chair of Tunbridge Wells Pride told the Times: “Thank you to everyone who attended and supported

this year’s Pride!

“It was fantastic to see a great show of community support throughout the day. Our Children’s Pride event went down very well with families, with drag story time from drag artist Semi Colon, appearances from Elsa, and a magic show!

“We had a great show of local businesses and charities that attended and engaged with local communities, it was particularly great to have West Kent Mind surveying attendees about tailored support services for the LGBTQIA+ community.

“We are already in the works planning things for next year, and already have further events in the works that are sure to include something for everyone across the town!”

TUNBRIDGE Wells’ annual August bank holiday music extravaganza is back this weekend for its 18th staging, with four days’ worth of music and food.

The music festival has been free to the public since its inception, but came under threat last year owing to the massive cost of staging such an event. Now with headline sponsor Maxipay Accounting Services in place for the second year running, the festival has returned to the four-day event format, kicking off this Friday (August 25) at 5pm.

Showcase

The natural amphitheatre of the town centre’s park is the perfect setting for the festival’s main stage, playing to promenaders and picnickers alike, while the stalls of the food village showcase the products of exclusively local traders.

Additional support from the Royal Tunbridge Wells Together Business Improvement District, public donations, business sponsors and contributions from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council also helped create a “vital lifeline for festival finances”, said organiser Paul Dunton.

The festival platforms local artists performing their own music, giving audiences a chance to experience local talent, while the performers have the opportunity to play in front of substantial crowds.

See our Local & Live guide on page 31

Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence

Prohire Limited of: Eagle House, Lamberts Road

Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3EH

is applying for a licence to use: Eagle House, Lamberts Road

Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 3EH as an operating centre for 3 goods vehicles and 1 trailers

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds LS9 6NF stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice.

Representors must, at the same time, send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to making representations is availbale from the Traffic Commissioner’s office

Local & Live festival is back with a bang

OPENING WEEKEND: The pub has been closed since April

Hospital trust shortlisted for prestigious health award

By Elena Percy

TUNBRIDGE Wells Hospital has been nominated for outstanding patient care at national health awards.

Cross Keys pub to reopen

By Lilly Croucher

A MUCH-LOVED family pub is set to reopen again after being closed for almost five months.

The Cross Keys on St John’s Road will officially reopen on Friday August 25, just in time for the bank holiday weekend.

On their new Facebook page, the pub wrote: “So excited to say all our hard work has paid off and the Cross Keys will be open on Friday 25th. Look forward to seeing you all.”

The Cross Keys has been taken over by Matthew and Lucy Hoy, who also own The Fish Works on Camden Road. The pub closed in April after the previous landlady passed away.

On taking the helm of the community pub, Mr Hoy told the Times: There are not many pubs in Tunbridge Wells, and we didn’t want to see another local pub lost. “It has been around for such a long time and we wanted to know how we could get involved, so after speaking to the brewery,

we were happy, and we went for it.”

Speaking on the struggles of opening a pub during a time of economic pressure, Mr Hoy said: “It is tough out there but if you become a destination, which is what we are trying to do, then you become a reason for people to come to you.”

With that in mind, Mr Hoy explained how he has completely transformed the pub while keeping it close to its roots.

“It’s a traditional pub and we are sticking to that,” he continued.

“We are not a bar or a restaurant, we are a pub, but it is going to have a new, fresh modern look which I think will make the place nice and vibrant.

“I think we have a lot of things that other pubs in Tunbridge Wells don’t have, like parking, a beer garden, an event space, and a dedicated children’s area.

“On opening day, we are going to have music, food, and a bit of a party.

“Then our plans for Sunday are to have a full hog roast dinner and Monday will be a family day.”

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW), which is one of just seven trusts in the country to be awarded a top-tier rating in NHS England’s oversight framework, has been nominated for The Health Service Journal (HSJ) Awards.

The Trust has been shortlisted for the Performance Recovery Award, which is reserved for innovative NHS organisations who have delivered “tangible improvements for staff, patients, and populations, as quickly and efficiently as possible”.

The MTW entry highlighted its position as one of the top five performing trusts in the country for Emergency Departments and cancer performance. It is also one of the few organisations to have no patients on long waiting lists.

A record-breaking 1,456 entries were received for this year’s HSJ Awards, which recognise innovation and improvements in care.

MTW Chief Executive Miles Scott said: “This is really exciting news and we are delighted to have been shortlisted for the Performance Recovery Award. “This recognition really does reflect and celebrate the dedication of teams across

our Trust who work so hard every day to provide the very best care to our patients.”

Alistair McLellan, HSJ Editor, said:

“It always gives me great pleasure to congratulate our finalists at this stage of the judging process and this year is no exception, as we acknowledge MTW for being shortlisted in the category of Performance Recovery.

“The calibre of entries left our panel of expert judges with some tough decisions. We can’t wait to welcome our finalists to the awards ceremony in November and to recognise and applaud such impressive achievements across the sector.”

The selected winners will be announced during the awards ceremony at Evolution London on November 16.

Age with joy at home

Bank holiday fundraiser to support Tanzania charity

A LOCAL charity which works to alleviate poverty and disease in a Tanzanian village is holding its 25th anniversary fundraiser at Tunbridge Wells pub.

Winning women take top prizes

By Grace Corcoran

FOLLOWING heartbreak for England’s Lionesses at the World Cup, there was at least success to be had in Tunbridge Wells, with women dominating sport.

The Tunbridge Wells Open Bowls Tournament culminated in a historic win for Jo Cartwright, the first woman ever to win the tournament.

The tournament, hosted at The Grove Bowls Club in Norfolk Road, attracts top players from clubs all around Kent and Sussex.

The final took place on Saturday August 12, where Jo took victory over her fellow clubmate, Marc Ferdinando.

This is the first time in its 85-year history, that the top award for the Overall Championship Singles Cup was won by a woman.

Jo told the Times: “It was a huge achievement for me to win the singles in the Tunbridge Wells Tournament. I feel very

proud to be the first woman to win!

“In bowls, everyone can compete equally as it’s not about strength or speed, so hopefully this will encourage more ladies to enter now that the tournament is fully open!

“It’s a great event, really well hosted by The Grove, and bowlers come from outside the local area to take part.”

A ladies’ golf team also took victory at the annual Pantiles Rotary Club charity golf day.

Pantiles Rotary held the event on Friday August 11 at the Nevill Golf Club, Tunbridge Wells to raise money for local charities, with 96 people taking part on the course.

The winners were ‘Len’s Lovelies’ –Carol Turl, Amanda Rose, Nikki Bell and Nicola Jones. The team beat 23 other teams to take the top prize.

The event, which included a lunchtime auction, raised around £10,000. Donations will be made to a number of local charities on a need basis, which in the past has including Nourish Foodbank, Aspens and Fegans among many others.

The Shimbwe Development Trust, set up by retired Tunbridge Wells Hospital Ophthalmologist Dr Peter Tesha, is holding a fundraiser on Monday August 28 for its silver anniversary at the Grove Tavern, Tunbridge Wells.

The charity was set up by Dr Tesha in 1997, in a bid to improve the lives of those living in Shimbwe, the rural village in Tanzania where he grew up.

The event starts from midday and all are invited to pop along and support the charity.

Following his retirement last year, Dr Tesha plans to spend six months out in the Shimbwe area and six months here in Tunbridge Wells.

The Trust has helped to improve clean water access, education and health facilities.

Money has been spent on building the infrastructure to provide clean water, helping to decrease the number of parasitic infestations among children.

The charity also founded the first secondary school in the village, helping to provide more options for those in Shimbwe Ward, located in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania.

Fundraisers are an important part of how the Trust can carry out its work in improving the lives of those in Shimbwe Ward.

Joyce Matthews, Chair of the Trust and local resident, told the Times: “Funding has meant we are able to lay pipes and install an irrigation system so that the children can have a drink of water on their way to school.

“Two water wells have been built, and we are currently building a third.

“It has made a huge difference to the village.”

Dr Tesha, who has saved the eyesight of many Tunbridge Wells residents, has garnered much support from his former patients for his charity fundraisers. This fundraiser will be a special one to mark the 25th anniversary.

The Grove Tavern, where Joyce also works, will be hosting this year’s fundraiser. There will be live music from Tunbridge Wells band The Varlies, a barbecue and a raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses. You can make a donation to the Trust at: shimbwetrust.org/donate

Lung doctor speaks out on air pollution’s links to cancer

Dr Anant Patel, a respiratory consultant and lung cancer specialist at the Royal Free Hospital, London, has spent the past few years raising awareness of the impact of air pollution on our health.

And while there are steps we can take individually to reduce our exposure, he welcomes city-wide changes such as the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) across all London boroughs which can help everyone breathe cleaner air.

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in the UK, killing around 35,000 people in England every year. One in six of those cases are patients who have never touched

a cigarette. New research reveals the role that air pollution may play.

Dr Patel, who says there is one non-smoker lung cancer case a week at the Royal Free Hospital’s clinics, warns that: “This affects all Londoners –all of us are at risk.”

He continues: “I have been a doctor for 20 years and I hardly remember seeing people at the start of my career who had never smoked developing lung cancer.”

A study in 2022 demonstrated for the first time how air pollution can cause lung cancer in people who have never smoked.

It found that exposure to tiny particles promotes the growth of cells carrying cancer-causing mutations in the lungs.

According to Dr Patel, there are individual changes that we can make to reduce our exposure to air pollution such as avoiding the most congested roads. Ultimately,

Lung cancer risks being overlooked in patients who

have never

smoked

Dr Anant Patel, a respiratory consultant and lung cancer specialist at the Royal Free Hospital, London

there needs to be action to reduce the source of the air pollution.

“Banning smoking in public in 2007 had an

enormous impact on helping people give up smoking.

“Expanding the ULEZ can do something similar to help improve air quality.”

About the ULEZ expansion

n From 29 August

GREEN GIRLS: ‘Len’s Lovelies’ (left to right) Carol Turl, Amanda Rose, Nikki Bell, Nicola Jones

IMPROVING LIVES: Children in the village of Shimbwe

Teachers ‘proud’ of students as

By Grace Corcoran

THOUSANDS of students in and around Tunbridge Wells will find out their GCSE results tomorrow (Thursday August 24), following the announcement of A-Level results last week.

The A-Level students performed extremely well, despite this being the first public exams this cohort had ever sat – their GCSE exams were cancelled due to the disruption caused by Covid.

After an increase in top A-Level grades in 2020 and 2021 led by teachers providing estimated grades, the grading this year returned to pre-pandemic marking.

Skinners’ School Headmaster Edward Wesson said: “There has very clearly been a return, without much compromise, to pre-pandemic scores.

“This makes sense, except for the fact that this cohort did not have the experience of sitting GCSEs in 2021: these are the first public exams they have done.”

In southeast England, 30.3 per cent of students were awarded top grades (A*/A), and 97.5 per cent were awarded A*-E.

At Mascalls Academy in Paddock Wood, most of its cohort have been offered a place

at their first-choice university and many have secured apprenticeships. Kent College, Pembury, said 97 per cent received their first or second choice.

Staff across Tunbridge Wells said they were incredibly proud of their students’ results, given the disruption to years of their schooling.

“I am proud of all our students’ achievements and this year’s results are no exception.

“They have worked incredibly hard and been rewarded with what they need for their next steps in life”.

At St Gregory’s Catholic School overall 71 per cent of students secured A*-C grades with a 99 per cent pass rate, while 44 per cent of students sitting BTECs received the equivalent of A*/A grades with a 100 per cent pass rate.

Angela Morrissey, Head of Sixth Form, said: “These results are testament to all the

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys’ Headteacher Amanda Simpson said:

CONGRATULATIONS:

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys students collect their results

many plan new life at university

students and their dedicated teachers. We are thrilled for them all and proud of all they have achieved.”

Skinners’ School saw 76 per cent of grades at A*-B and 20 per cent at A*.

Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School increased its A/A* pass rate from 2019 to 44.4 per cent.

Independent boarding school

Benenden School also increased its A/A* grades to 57 per cent – up from 55 per cent in 2019.

Uplands Academy also continued with an upward trend, with over two-thirds of entries achieving a grade C or higher.

Mayfield said it had a 100 per cent pass rate and over half the grades awarded were A* or A.

WILLIAM, SKINNERS’ SCHOOL

“I was very nervous going in because we’ve never really sat public exams like this before. I revised hard and we all did what we could do. Skinners’ supported us academically and pastorally. I couldn’t have asked for any more.

“I’m going to miss the people, that includes teachers as well! We are so lucky with the teachers we have here, the relationship with them at sixth form is great. I’m going to miss the whole community. I got AAB and I’m off to the University of Warwick to study History and Politics.

HOW WILL YOU BE CELEBRATING?

A little cheeky trip to Wetherspoons.

“I found Maths the hardest subject at junior school. I never would have believed I would take it for A-Level, and that’s all thanks to Mayfield. I am incredibly proud of my results and of getting into the University of Cardiff to study Architecture.”

CECILY, TUNBRIDGE WELLS GIRLS’

SCHOOL: (Pictured above, centre bottom row) It’s a gap year and then off to Cardiff University to study.

“Honestly, it’s very daunting, as I’ve never experienced doing ‘proper exams’. I felt like when I did my first exam I had no clue how to act before.

“I’m excited to become more independent and meet new people. I think having the freedom to do whatever is a bit scary but also exciting at the same time.”

NEXT STEPS: Shannon, of Beacon Academy opens her results

The importance of sufficient risk assessments

Earlier this month, we saw Transport for London (TfL) and Tram Operations Limited (TOL) receive £10million and £4million fines respectively, having been prosecuted by the Office of Rail and Road following the tram disaster in Croydon back in 2016.

On November 9, 2016, a tram

carrying 69 passengers overturned and derailed on a sharp bend at high speed. Sadly, there were seven fatalities and many others suffered serious, life-changing injuries.

The report from the Rail Accident and Investigation Branch (RAIB), highlighted that TfL and TOL failed to ensure there was a suitable risk assessment considering high-speed derailment, and the location was

a “safety blind spot” where suitable measures had not been considered or implemented to control the risk of potential derailment. This lack of sufficient risk assessment was stated as a “core failure”.

Businesses should take their health and safety responsibilities very seriously. At Forrest Health & Safety, we understand that health and safety compliance can be a minefield, which is why we ensure

our support and guidance is clear, practical and simple to follow.

As well as ensuring your risk assessments are suitable and sufficient, we can visit your sites and workplaces to carry out safety inspections and audits as part of your management system processes and advise on findings with clear and concise reports.

Sophie Forrest-Lavery

GRAMMAR

MAYFIELD STUDENT, AMELIA, FROM TUNBRIDGE WELLS

READY FOR THE WORLD: Students from St Gregory’s Catholic School

Vineyard launches shuttle bus to drive up visitor numbers

By Victoria Roberts

KENT winemaker Balfour Winery has launched a shuttle service to the nearest railway station, to attract visitors to its tours and tastings from London.

The winery says it can offer a 45-minute journey time from central London, by running its new shuttle bus service to and from Marden station, timed to coincide with the trains.

The shuttle service could also be a boon for Tunbridge Wells residents and staycationing tourists, as trains call directly at Paddock Wood, and connect to Tunbridge Wells and High Brooms via Tonbridge.

Increase

With visitors to the vineyard already exceeding 15,000 annually, the company pointed to figures from industry association WineGB indicating that UK wineries can expect a 20 per cent increase in visitor numbers over the next five years.

Balfour’s Commercial Director Sarah Easton, said: “The boom in interest in English winery visits over recent years has been incredible to see.

“There’s a real realisation now that you don’t need to go abroad to savour the joy of

visiting a vineyard.”

She added: “We want as few barriers as possible for people to discover our beautiful winery.”

Attractions and activities at the 400-acre estate include tours and wine tastings. However, with events now being organised over the autumn and winter, the service is expected to run all year round, a spokesman told the Times

“We’re expecting autumn to be particularly busy, with the launch of a new menu and later dining,” he said.

Employment law and HR firm mourns loss of senior manager

LOCH Associates Group has been mourning the loss of one of its senior managers, who had been with the firm for eight years.

Sally Bedeau died after a period of illness, the firm said last week.

Having joined Loch Associates Group in 2015 as part of the senior management team, Sally had been with the firm for half of its existence, and played a key role in the development of the HR side of the business.

Meanwhile, winter events include music nights, murder mystery nights and sessions of the Dining Club.

“The service will run during our opening hours [which is until 6pm] unless we have one of these events on,” added the spokesman.

The Balfour Winery shuttle bus departs from Marden Station after the arrival of each London train, a journey of five minutes. Seats cannot be booked, but the driver will return immediately to collect anyone left behind.

Although Sally was based at the firm’s Brighton office, she was much loved and valued by her colleagues across the group, including those at the head office in Tunbridge Wells.

Founder and Managing Partner Pam Loch said: “Always the life and soul, both at work and play, Sally was such a positive and fun person to be around.

“Her colleagues at Loch Associates will miss her very much and our thoughts are with her friends and family.”

Sally had received care from the Martlets hospice charity in Brighton and Hove, which gratefully receives donations at: martlets.org.uk/donate

Transform your financial wellbeing

WITH the rise of digital banking and cashless transactions, the act of physically putting money into a piggy bank may seem a little outdated. However, the fundamental principle of saving remains as important as ever. Unpredictable experiences and financial crises can all significantly affect financial wellbeing.

Financial education is worth the investment

The importance of effectively managing day-to-day finances, setting and achieving long-term financial goals, and having a sense of security and control over one’s financial situation is often overlooked or underrated. An employee’s financial wellbeing has a profound impact on their overall wellness and job performance as financial stress can significantly affect mental and physical health.

As many as 56 per cent of individuals across all age groups admit to not being confident managing money, nor have a budget (Money Advice Service, 2020).

The perfect collaboration

The Finance Hub, an award-winning provider of financial advice in Tunbridge Wells, has recently joined forces with FinWELL, a leading provider of award-

winning financial wellbeing services through education, guidance, training and support. This partnership of powerhouses aims to extend valuable financial education to businesses, empowering their employees with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions.

“The Finance Hub is a collective of independent, expert financial services advisers all committed to providing honest,

intelligent, accessible advice. But in addition to advice, I believe that financial education is key to empowering people with the knowledge and confidence to take control of their financial wellbeing and have a healthier relationship with money and also better mental health.”

FinWELL brings a wealth of experience in designing tailored financial education programs. Their offerings include

workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations, covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and retirement planning.

By equipping employees with the tools to manage their finances effectively, employers not only enhance their workforce’s overall quality of life but also reap the benefits of increased productivity, loyalty, and talent attraction. In embracing financial wellbeing, companies demonstrate their commitment to the comprehensive growth and success of their employees.

Taster

To find out more, The Finance Hub is running education taster sessions with FinWELL held at their offices at The Potteries at the end of the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells. FinWELL will explain more about how they can help educate local HR Managers and leaders in local businesses on why employees’ financial wellbeing and mental health support is so crucial to your people and your business.

To book your place on their next taster session simply visit their website at www. financehub.money. Alternative you can pop in or call 01892 280000.

Gillian Palmer, founder of The Finance Hub tells the Times that the humble piggy bank can help

you move from pennies to prosperity…

WINE STATION: Balfour Winery will bus visitors in from Marden

SALLY BEDEAU

Local restaurateurs open second venue on The Pantiles

New crackdown on illegal migrant workers, what do businesses need to know?

Earlier this month the Minister for Immigration, Robert Jenrick, revealed that fines would be tripling for hiring migrants illegally, in a move to stop Britain from being seen as soft on immigration. If an employer is found to have employed an individual who does not have the right to work in the UK or an employer has not undertaken correct or sufficient checks, they will face a fine of £45,000 per illegal worker (up from £15,000) for a first breach and £60,000 for a repeat (up from £20,000). So, what do employers need to know to avoid any pitfalls and what are the key steps to hiring a legal overseas worker? Joe Milner, Partner and Solicitor Advocate of Loch Associates Group, explains.

By Sarah Carter

A LOCAL hospitality partnership has expanded into the south of town, bringing The Pantiles Bar & Café under the same roof as TN1 Bar and Kitchen.

Lukas Barauskas became Head Chef and business partner of the Pantiles-based venue four years ago, but is now to join forces with his fellow directors of the Monson Road-based restaurant, Murat Askin and Tess Kerslake.

The joint venture replaces the former owners of the Pantiles venue, Craig and Tania McGrath.

Mr Barauskas was already Executive Chef at TN1 Bar & Kitchen, and received a Times Business Award on behalf of the restaurant last March.

He said: “I am really proud of what we have already achieved at the Pantiles Bar & Café. Working with Tess and Murat will add another dimension to the business.

“We are extending our evening hours and offering a wider range to answer the needs of a broader clientele and I am excited for what the future holds.”

Location

Both venues will be open seven days a week, with The Pantiles café extending its opening hours to operate from 9am to 5pm on Sunday through Wednesday, and 9am to 11pm on Thursday through Saturday.

Mr Askin added: “With seating for 30 inside and 35 outside nestled in the Colonnade, it really is an all-year-round location.”

Local law student gets feet under the desk with new paralegal scheme

WORK experience is the foot in the door for many aspiring solicitors, but a local law firm has joined forces with the University of Kent to help a local student get his feet under the desk as a paralegal as part of a new degree.

CooperBurnett has supported the University of Kent’s new Masters of Law (M-Law) paralegal scheme since its inception, and welcomed its first student this summer.

Joshua Hayes, from Crowborough, praised the new ‘hybrid approach’ to becoming a solicitor, saying: “The opportunity to sit closely and work alongside other experienced fee earners is invaluable as I start my training.”

He explained: “My week currently involves three days of study at the University of Kent, whilst working two days at CooperBurnett.

“Being a wholly new route to qualification, it was at first quite daunting. However, I would definitely advocate for the M-Law, as it provides an opportunity to blend the traditional vocational training (LPC) with real-world, practicable legal experience, making for a more wellrounded lawyer.”

Joshua started his experience in the Commercial department of the firm’s Mount

UP:

Ephraim Road offices, but will have the opportunity to work in a variety of different departments.

Victoria Sampson, Partner and Head of the Corporate and Commercial, said the firm was ‘proud to foster a culture of supporting and training the next generation’.

Joshua added: “It is so lovely to see an established firm embracing the new route to qualification, whilst not only supporting me in equipping myself with the necessary skills but investing in the up-and-coming generation of lawyers.”

Outside of work, Joshua plays tennis competitively, both as an individual and for the University of Kent.

There are many reasons why an individual might not have, or may cease to have, the right to work in the UK. For example, their leave has expired, they were prohibited from working in certain sectors they presented, incorrect or false papers or they did not have permission to stay or even enter the UK. Under current legislation, a Director can be sent to jail for 5 years and subjected to an unlimited fine if an employer is found to be employing someone who they know or had ‘reasonable cause to believe’ did not have the right to work in the UK.

With 329 penalties being issued between the small period of 1 October to 31 December 2022, it is essential that the correct checks are done to avoid illegal working and that staff are trained to do them properly. They should also understand the importance of retaining the evidence too. Some key steps are summarised as follows:

1. Identify the Individual: Determine who needs to undergo the Right to Work check. This applies to all employees, including full-time, part-time, temporary workers and can extend to self-employed individuals too as the Home Office could determine it should extend to them.

2. Obtain Documentation: The individual needs to provide an employer with original documents that prove their right to work in the UK. It is essential that part of this stage includes a check that they have the right to work in the company’s sector.

3. Check the Documents: Carefully examine the documents provided by the individual. Check for authenticity, expiration dates, and any signs of tampering. Make sure the documents match the individual's appearance and details. The use of fraudulent documents is a significant cause for a seemingly legal employee to not have the right to work in the UK. An employer must therefore take care to authenticate the document and to

be sure it is legitimate.

4. Make Copies: An employer should make a clear copy of each document provided. This copy should be dated and retained as part of an employer’s records. Digital copies are acceptable, but they must be of high quality and clearly legible.

5. Check Validity: Ensure that the documents provided allow the individual to work in the UK and that their permission to work hasn't expired. Again, this is another one of the common pitfalls for employers in the recruitment process and special care should be taken.

6. Repeat Checks: If the individual has a time-limited right to work in the UK, an employer will need to repeat the Right to Work check when their permission is about to expire.

7. Retain Records: It's essential to maintain accurate records of the Right to Work checks and copies of the documents for each employee. Retain these records for the duration of the individual's employment and for two years after their employment ends so an employer has a record in the event there is an investigation.

8. Follow Corrective Measures: If an employer finds that an individual doesn't have the right to work in the UK, they should not employ them. If a prospective employee's documents are pending, an employer can conduct a "Positive Verification Notice" check with the Home Office Employer Checking Service.

9. Declarations: It is also recommended that any offer letter and contract issued contains a clear provision that shows the employee is declaring that they have the right to work in the UK.

www.lochassociates.co.uk

JOE MILNER

LAWYERED

CooperBurnett’s HQ and (inset) Joshua Hayes

BUSINESS AT THE BAR:

(left to right) Tess Kerslake, Lukas Barauskas, Murat Askin

NHS managers ‘should be held to account’ say doctors involved with the Letby case

NHS managers should be held accountable for failings, according to doctors who repeatedly sounded the alarm about killer nurse Lucy Letby.

Concerns about the serial killer were not addressed for months, before she was finally taken off frontline duties.

Senior doctors at the Countess of Chester Hospital, where the 33-year-old carried out her year-long killing spree on the neonatal unit, have said that hospital bosses should be regulated in a similar way to doctors and nurses.

Sentence

It comes as Letby begins her whole-life sentence in prison for the murder of seven babies and the attempted murders of six more.

Paediatrician Dr Stephen Brearey, who blew the whistle on Letby in 2015, said NHS managers need to be held accountable.

Asked if he would like to see regulation of hospital administrators, he told the media: “Absolutely. Because doctors and nurses all have their regulatory bodies that we have to answer to.

“And quite often, we’ll see senior managers who have no apparent accountability for what they do in our

trusts, and they move to other trusts, and you worry about their future actions.

“There doesn’t seem to be any system to make them accountable and for them to justify their actions in a systematic way.”

His colleague, Dr Ravi Jayaram, told ITV: “As far as I can tell [with] the people in senior NHS management positions, there is no robust system of accountability of appraisal. This is the culture in the NHS and it has to change.”

A doctors’ union has also called for the law to change to better protect NHS whistleblowers.

The Hospital Consultants and Specialists Association (HCSA) said there should be an independent organisation where whistleblowers should be registered, and that it should become a criminal offence if those who speak out face recrimination.

Dr Naru Narayanan, HCSA President, told Sky News: “There has to be better protection for people who raise concerns, but we see time and again that people who do so face retribution, revenge and retaliation, and they fear for their careers.

“There has to be a significant rehaul which has to be protected by law, where whistleblowers are afforded the protection they deserve.”

Police officer denies punching and choking teenager at London Tube station

A British Transport Police (BTP) officer has denied punching and choking a teenage boy while making an arrest at a west London Tube station.

PC Kerry Reynolds, 45, from Tadley, Hampshire, is accused of assaulting the 17-year-old after a group of teenagers allegedly pushed through the barriers at Barons Court Tube station on January 17. Reynolds pleaded not guilty to charges of causing actual bodily harm and assault by beating at Westminster Magistrates’ Court yesterday morning (August 22).

The officer is accused of grabbing the teenager by the hood before pushing him against a wall while making an arrest.

He is then alleged to have dragged the boy into an office, punched him in the face at least twice and put him in a chokehold.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is also investigating what happened after BTP received a complaint from a person on behalf of the teenager.

This is not the first time Reynolds has

been accused of assault. He was previously sacked from his role in 2017 as BTP officer for using excessive force during an arrest and using offensive language about the detainee.

The day after that incident, Reynolds texted a friend: “I punched him twice and kneed him 4 times. Felt good. Lol.”

A month later, he texted another friend: “I kneed and punched a nasty black guy who wanted to fight with us.”

He was reinstated two years later after an investigation on April 5 2019.

A Freedom of Information report stated that, at the Police Appeal Tribunal resulting in the reinstatement of Reynolds, “the Tribunal agreed that the actions of the officer were excessive, however assessed that the sanction should be a final written warning and not dismissal”.

Reynolds, who has been suspended, was granted unconditional bail ahead of a hearing at Isleworth Crown Court on September 19 2023.

LUCY LETBY

PC KERRY REYNOLDS

Picture: Cheshire Constabulary/PA

Picture: Yui Mok/PA Wire

First two of eight children rescued from cable car above Pakistan canyon

YESTERDAY afternoon two children were confirmed as rescued from a cable car dangling hundreds of feet above the ground in a remote part of Pakistan.

It is reported the first child was rescued by military in an army helicopter, while the second was saved by locals using a zip line. There are conflicting reports of how many children have been saved, with reports that an additional two might have been rescued bringing the total to four, but by the time the Times went to press last night, only the rescue of two children had been confirmed.

Helicopters retreated after sunset yesterday, but attempts to rescue the remaining children and adults in the car continued, with reports that locals were heading out on a zip line

One of the cables for the cable car snapped while the eight people were crossing a river canyon in Battagram district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The children had been on their way to school, and villagers frequently use cable cars to get around Pakistan’s mountainous regions. However, the cars are often poorly maintained and every year people die or are injured while travelling in them. It would take two hours walk to reach the school from the valley, but takes just four minutes by cable car.

Army commandos could be seen on local TV trying to lower themselves on ropes from helicopters towards the cable car. Helicopters retreated after sunset yesterday (August 22), but attempts to rescue the remaining children and adults in the car continued, with reports that locals were heading out on a zip line.

An expert has warned the rescue is

incredibly delicate because the wind created by the helicopters’ blades could have further weakened cables holding the car aloft.

Earlier yesterday, relatives of those trapped prayed while anxiously watching the operation unfold.

Evacuation

According to Pakistani TV stations, some of those trapped were in contact with their families by mobile phone, while authorities said the two adults were consoling the children, who were between the ages of 11 and 15.

Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, wrote on Twitter (now renamed as X) that he ordered authorities “to urgently ensure safe rescue and evacuation of the 8 people”.

“I have also directed the authorities to conduct safety inspections of all such private chairlifts and ensure that they are safe to operate and use,” he said on the platform.

Before retiring for the night, several helicopters had hovered above the scene, and ambulances had gathered on the ground.

Cable cars are generally a safe mode of transport for millions of people all over the world. Incidents like this are rare, but can happen.

In 2017, 10 people were killed when a cable car fell into a ravine hundreds of feet deep in the popular mountain resort of Murree, Pakistan after its cable broke.

Last year in Jharkhand, India, three died and 50 were left stranded in the air for days before being rescued by military crews. Two of the people who died fell to their deaths during the rescue operation. The worst cable car crash was in Cavalese, an Italian ski resort in 1976, where 42 people died.

Picture: Twitter/@mugheesali81

Martin Betts

Tunbridge

The long haul to mend broken Britain

AFTER 13 years of Conservative governments, we have seen the neglect and destruction of our public services, a substantial drop in living standards, and the passing on of massive debt to future generations.

During the last year, we have seen three Prime Ministers. Johnson is now judged to be a liar leading a scandalous premiership, and his getting Brexit done badly leaves us all poorer as a result.

Truss’s chaotic 45 days in office as PM cost the country over £30billion in unfunded tax cuts, plus increased interest rates and charges for government borrowing.

Mortgage payers are now paying the price.

Sunak told us in January that he wants to be judged this year on halving inflation, growing the economy, reducing our national debt, cutting NHS waiting lists and stopping the boats – all these pledges are unravelling.

The rate of inflation is falling slightly, but there is little sign that our economy is growing and debt is still rising. Families are hundreds of pounds worse off than two

years ago and household bills are still climbing.

NHS England says that waiting lists are at a record high and growing. Stopping the boats is not happening. Thousands of desperate people are still making dangerous journeys across the Channel and many are dying.

Beyond Sunak’s pledges we have increases in child poverty; a shortage of doctors, teachers and nurses; crumbling hospitals and schools; increases in rapes and violent crimes; sewage in our rivers and inadequate action on the climate crisis.

All of us are seeing that our public services are close to collapse. Some councils have already gone bankrupt. And the government has no plan to get us out of this mess. Truly there has never been a greater need for change.

Labour is preparing itself to be a serious and responsible government whenever the

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election comes – ready to offer hope and a new direction for our country. But the scale of what is needed to repair our economy and public services is immense.

In ‘5 Missions for a Better Britain’ Keir

Starmer promises to focus on growth, making Britain a clean energy superpower, building an NHS fit for the future, making Britain’s streets safe and breaking down barriers to opportunity.

These missions will form the backbone of Labour’s Manifesto which we will be working on further at our autumn Conference. Although the opinion polls look good now for the election of a future Labour government, winning isn’t a given. We have to win over the public’s trust.

Electing a Labour government is the only way that our country can reverse year-onyear Tory decline. There is no other alternative. Not Lib Dem. Not Green. That is why our party is laser-focused on winning by promising only what we can deliver.

Leading up to the General Election we will be working hard for the election of a Labour MP in Tunbridge Wells. An MP who will work with and support a Labour government for the changes we need – not someone who sits powerlessly on the side-lines of opposition.

labour.org.uk/missions/

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Martin Betts is Chair of Tunbridge Wells Constituency Labour Party. He lives in Southborough and qualified in human resources, training and development at Leicester University. He retired after a long career in the civil service, latterly with the Department for Work and Pensions.

Wells Labour Party

‘Labour is preparing itself to be a serious and responsible government whenever the election comes’

Picture: Shutterstock

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

Enduring ambition

I recently learned that Mark Rees, a trans man and former Rusthall Lib Dem councillor, had sadly passed away. I first met Mark in the early eighties when he took some photos for a local election leaflet, and subsequently got to know him well.

His life and its myriad struggles were detailed in his autobiography, ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, published by Cassell in 1996. I recall Mark did a reading and booksigning session at the Tunbridge Wells branch of Waterstones.

Mark went to the European Court of Human Rights in 1985 to gain legal recognition for his identity, but it was not until the UK Labour government passed the Gender Recognition Act in 2004 that he felt he had at last achieved his life’s work.

Despite this, Mark Rees remained a quiet and unassuming character, whose enduring ambition was to build bridges and pursue reconciliation with the very people who prevented him from achieving his vocation of becoming an Anglican minister.

I was reminded of this also back in the summer on a Pride walk of some of the old

Super badgers

I am sorry Mr Dick Bell has had no success in keeping badgers off his allotment. I wonder what the other allotment owners feel about these ‘super badgers’. Could they join together to buy some badger-proof fencing? It would be interesting if someone had a night-time camera and readers could enjoy seeing these ‘super badgers’ at work – if in fact, it is all badgers and they are not joined by rabbits, who also seem to be able to get in anywhere.

I have found feeding them every night in one place makes them soon learn that this is their food, and they leave everything else. This may be worth a try.

Badgers, as well as being fun to watch, along with foxes, are at the top of the food chain. Our wildlife in this country is in terrible decline. All organisms in an ecosystem depend on each other. It is not possible to just remove one organism without serious consequences.

Albert Einstein is said to have warned: “If the last bee disappeared off the face of the globe, then Man would have only four years left.” Our bees are in serious decline. We need to do everything we can to preserve our wildlife. After all, it is we who have taken their land and thus their homes.

Valerie Russell

West Kent Badger Group

Ghastly legacy

I am sorry to read that Mr Bell can find no acceptable solution to the problem of local badgers eating his vegetables. (Times, August 16)

Maybe he could just try and accept that we

haunts of Soho formerly frequented by the LGBT community. Our young tour guide told of the many historical venues that had closed down and that sadly attacks on the community had grown in recent years, seemingly due to increased mainstream visibility. Sadly, it seems, as with most forms of prejudice, one only has to scratch the surface for it to reappear in new guises.

Dr Alan Bullion

Southborough Labour Town Councillor Mark Rees’s funeral is to be held at St Paul’s, Rusthall, at 2pm today (August 23). All welcome. Please no dark clothes.

share this planet with our fellow creatures, who have as much right to their existence as we have.

Sadly research has shown that the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. We have lost around 50 per cent of our biodiversity and are in the bottom five per cent globally. Sadly, with a Conservative government that prioritises the rich and powerful over our precious wildlife and environment, I fear that little will change.

I was rather puzzled, though, at Mr Bell’s mention of ‘the obvious’ solution. I am sure he has no wish to harm them, but this is a useful time to remind others that under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992, it is illegal to harm, kill or interfere with badgers or their setts. Failure to comply can lead to six months imprisonment.

Jane Hutchins Crowborough

Addressing councillor column

I felt compelled to respond to the many misleading points made by Cllr Lance Goodship and the Conservatives in last week’s column.

Firstly, on Dunorlan Park. The public consultation revealed that 50 per cent of respondents were opposed to any form of parking charges, while the other 50 per cent accepted that some form of charging structure might be necessary.

The cost of maintaining our parks is going to rise substantially over the next few years due to inflation, and the Cabinet have had to look at the fairest ways to raise the funds to maintain them. A relatively modest contribution of £1 per hour to park is a

reasonable step to maintaining their upkeep, but in an ideal world we would all have liked to keep free parking.

Cllr Goodship then goes on to make a number of extraordinary claims about the Borough Partnership.

The widening gap between income and escalating costs in the Council’s revenue budget is a matter of fact and not mine or any other Cabinet member’s personal opinion. I’m surprised they continue to refute what the independent auditors found when we took control.

Unlike the Conservatives, we appointed an opposition councillor to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee where the Conservative Leader Tom Dawlings currently scrutinises the Council’s decisions as Chairman. So isn’t its performance down to him and his colleagues?

The implication that all of this is causing staff turnover is nonsense. Everyone knows the challenges of recruiting.

And the ‘oven-ready’ initiative to rent out part of the Council’s vacant office space? That got planning permission in July.

I know the Conservatives desperately need something to cling on to at the moment, but this needed to be called out for the false narrative that it is.

Cllr Christopher Hall Cabinet Member for Finance & Performance Tunbridge Wells Borough Council

Space for manoeuvring

I enjoyed reading John Pearce’s reply to my letter, although I’m not sure I’ve had “a road to Damascus moment”, as he suggests (Times, August 16).

He rightly points out that newbuild developments are approved without the necessary infrastructure. But Westminster does not give local councillors much room to manoeuvre.

Central government sets annual housebuilding targets: 678 per year for the next 20 years is the number we will need to

PEPPY SAYS...

achieve across the Borough. Local councils decide where to put these houses through a local plan.

In our new local plan, we have tried to concentrate new housing within sustainable new developments with adequate infrastructure, rather than in-fill, but this is a challenge. Almost all of Tunbridge Wells Borough is either Greenbelt or AONB, which makes identifying suitable land difficult. Simply refusing to meet the Government’s housebuilding target leads to a local plan being rejected, as Sevenoaks recently discovered.

Without a local plan, a town is a developer’s paradise, leading to speculative applications in inappropriate locations. If the council refuses an application, the developer can appeal, with the council potentially paying their costs.

The Liberal Democrats don’t believe this centralised, one-size-fits-all approach to new housing is the right one, which is why we are calling for a different approach: a consensus on development.

Peter Lidstone Lib Dem Councillor for St John’s

Hot air halleluiah

Congratulations to the promoters of an additional runway at Gatwick (and Heathrow).

Additional flights will be so helpful to people leaving their homes in what are becoming intolerable heat zones of the world.

Planes do add carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides to the atmosphere, adding to the climate change situation, but at least many politicians and financial managers plan selflessly for others.

By taking one or more holiday flights a year ourselves, we ensure also the viability of the additional aircraft needed for populations desperate to escape unbearable temperatures, or major flood disasters.

John Elliott Tunbridge Wells

MARK REES

INSURANCE THAT’S ON YOUR DOORSTEP

Speech Bubbles platform helps inspire children’s communication confidence

Eileen Leahy speaks to Trinity Theatre’s Education Producer, Katie Sommers, about its Speech Bubbles programme, both a local and county-wide initiative, which helps young schoolchildren develop their speech and language skills…

THIS academic year, Trinity Theatre has taken its Speech Bubbles programme (originated by London Bubble) across the county, working with 69 schools and 1,172 children each week. The initiative has been supported by Kent County Council’s Reconnect and Early Help funding. The Speech Bubbles programme, which supports children in school Years 1 and 2 with speech, language and communication needs, has been running in Kent for six years, and in London since 2009.

Impetus

“It uses all elements of drama to develop confidence and communication,” explains Katie Sommers, who is Trinity Theatre’s Education Producer.

“Speech Bubbles sessions celebrate the children’s own stories, using them as a focus and the main impetus for activities each week. It runs in school, during school time, across the school year with a trained Speech Bubbles practitioner, provided by Trinity, and a teaching assistant from the school.”

Katie goes on to say the Speech Bubbles programme ties in with the recent national

Summer Music Recital

conversation around oracy and communication skills.

“According to a BBC report, lockdowns in particular had an impact on young people’s language skills, with 76 per cent of respondents to a 2021 survey saying students starting school in 2020 needed more support with communication than those in previous years.”

Katie adds that research done by the Department for Children Schools and Families found that if speech, language and communication needs are not addressed in the early years, they become “increasingly difficult to address and are strongly linked in

later life with mental illness, unemployment, relationship breakdown, and offending”.

“Speech Bubbles is designed to not only empower and boost the children, but also the participating school staff, and this became more evident in its success this year, working with so many,” continues Katie.

“Ninety-seven per cent of teaching assistants said they felt they had increased knowledge, skills and confidence when supporting children who have been referred against the Speech Bubbles criteria.”

Katie confirms that feedback from the programme has been great, with one school

Brittens Music

Instrument

Try-Out Day

at The Amelia Scott

Join us for an evening of classical music at The Amelia Scott in association with Brittens Music

The programme will open with Kim Thornewell, senior staff member at Brittens Music, performing The Swan by Camille SaintSaëns on the euphonium, with piano accompaniment.

Mezzo Soprano Kathryn Hannah will follow with songs from Bizet’s Carmen including Près des remparts de Séville and the famous Habanera!

To headline the evening, awardwinning violinist Fenella Humphreys will delight and entertain with performances of Cyril Scott –Bumble-Bees, Claude Debussy – Girl with the Flaxen Hair, Robert Schumann – Trämerei, Mancini/Mercer – Moon River, JS Bach – Violin Partita no.3 in E major, Gavotte en Rondeau, and Seonaid Aitken – The Mad Piper.

in partnership with

staff member saying: “I just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed being involved with this programme, it has benefited our children so much, and even my own confidence with getting involved with children has increased as well, so thank you!

“After a difficult few years for children and schools, the Speech Bubbles intervention is a fantastic platform to inspire confidence, develop communication and imagination,” adds Katie.

“This extends to the school staff participating in the project, as the project aims to empower them within the school. The leaders of the programme are constantly researching and developing the structure and content based on feedback from schools and partners.

“Trinity Creative Engagement is thrilled to have been able to facilitate Speech Bubbles in so many schools across the county this year and hopes to continue for years to come.”

If you think Speech Bubbles might be right for your school, please contact Katie Sommers by emailing bubbles@ trinitytheatre.net

Join us throughout the day to come and try an instrument with Brittens Music.

From strings to brass, the team will have a collection of musical instruments for you to explore and play, offering their expert guidance to help you hit the right notes. From first time musicians to virtuoso, young and mature, all are welcome. And, for the little ones, there will be ‘Colourstrings’ music group taster sessions perfect for toddler to preschool children running throughout the day too!

The Amelia Scott - Atrium |

£15 theamelia.co.uk

The Amelia Scott - Atrium |

theamelia.co.uk

Picture: Speech Bubbles CIO

AFTERNOON TEA

Enjoy sweet and fruity summertime flavours in our beautifully crafted pâtisseries, perfectly accompanied by scrumptious savouries, traditional scones and a delicious selection of teas, coffees, or bubbles.

Bookings available 12pm – 4pm every day

Traditional £25 | Prosecco £30

Get together and spend some quality time enjoying a delicious roast

alf resco this summer, overlooking our 36 acres of glorious grounds. All the family are welcome... dogs too!

Book now for this Sunday 27th August

2 courses £27.50 | 3 courses £31.50

Nevill

Picture: Nigel Martin Photography

Welcome to Local & Live

Local & Live returns to Tunbridge Wells this August bank holiday weekend. We are delighted to have the support from local business Maxipay Accounting Services who agreed to be our headline sponsor for the second consecutive year, providing a vital lifeline for the festival’s finances which, coupled with valuable contributions from The BID (Royal Tunbridge Wells Together), donations from the public, numerous local business sponsorships and a contribution from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, all adds up to the fantastic news that Local & Live can go ahead again.

The free music festival, now in its 18th year, is a regular annual fixture in the town’s cultural calendar. Local & Live has become a popular weekend for picnicking in the park, attracting all generations from young families to the more senior music fans. It features the cream of the local area’s original musical talent and artists already confirmed include Kumala, Black Gabanza, James Kirby, Zoe Nicol, Anna Howie and many more. It begins on the evening of Friday August 25 at 5pm and focuses on a purpose-built stage in Calverley Grounds, the beautiful Decimus

Burton-designed park in the town centre. The music continues in the park through Saturday 26 (12pm to 10pm) and Sunday 27 (12pm to 10pm). The Forum will be hosting afterparties every night after the music finishes in Calverley Grounds with an array of local bands playing until late each Night. To accompany the music in Calverley Grounds, there will be drinks tents run by local businesses The Forum, Hattons,

Sankey’s and Fine Grind, and a selection of local food traders including Roddy Burger, Fine Grind, Crumbs & Treacle, Naked & Ready Foods, Alice’s Ices, Rascal’s Crepes and Pizzas, Kaphao Thai street food and many more. All the traders will be serving an array of wonderful foods to suit everyone’s tastes. The bank holiday Monday is known as ‘Fringe Day’, and we are delighted to announce that The Forum

will be continuing to host Local & Live artists from 2pm through to late, with local band Catching Mangoes headlining at 8.45pm. The Sussex Mews will be our main outdoor stage location with an array of Local & Live acts performing music from 1.15pm until 8.30pm. Shep & Co headline

‘Local & Live has become a popular weekend for picnicking in the park, attracting all generations from young families to the more senior music fans’

The Sussex Mews stage at 7.15pm.

As the festival has grown in both reputation and size, it has also drawn visitors from the length and breadth of the UK and Europe. Local & Live brings together a collective audience in the region of 15,000 people to enjoy the music and a relaxed family-friendly festival atmosphere.

Local resident and frontman of The Bluetones, Mark Morriss recently gave his take on the festival: “Local & Live has established itself as an essential hub for uniting musicians and fans of all

Picture: Nigel Martin Photography

As Local & Live returns this weekend for its 18th anniversary, the music festival’s founder, Paul Dunton, previews the event and explains why you should come along…

generations and genres in the area of Tunbridge Wells. We are so lucky to have it.”

Iconic rock legend Roger Daltrey of The Who, is a long-term supporter of the festival and commented: “Local & Live is a fantastic platform for independent, original music in Kent and Sussex. Long may it continue!”

Headline acts announced

We are delighted to announce that local band Code: Marla will be headlining on the Friday evening at Calverley Grounds, with six other local acts taking to the stage in the build-up to their set.

Friday promises to be a rocking affair with

Black Gabanza, The Next Agenda, Night Without Sleep, The River Flows and Reptile Kin also on the bill. Code: Marla offer a breathtaking fusion of live electronic music and ground-shaking nu-metal, interwoven with intricate textures and harmonies.

Code: Marla’s music effortlessly blends heavy guitar-driven rock with the pulsating beats of dubstep and drum and bass, creating a dark and hypnotic atmosphere that will leave the audience spellbound.

Saturday kicks off with music from 12pm all the way through to 10pm. Local fourpiece ‘Cyrano’ top the bill with renowned singer-songwriter James Kirby as main

support. Cyrano are inspired by the likes of Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Elbow and Queens of The Stone Age, and are renowned for their anthemic melodies, led by Joe Ackerley’s soaring vocals.

Local & Live is also thrilled to announce that Two Weeks In Nashville will be headlining Sunday night at Calverley Grounds. The popular local group have been wowing crowds across the UK, performing at some of the UK’S leading festivals including numerous Pub In The Park mainstage sets.

They are without doubt one of the best live acts I have ever seen, with world-class musicianship and superb songs, they offer their own distinct brand of infectious indie pop/rock and they will definitely rock Calverley Grounds.

With music again starting at midday on Sunday, an array of superb local acts is on offer, including the likes of Steffan James, The Charlie Rivers Band, Cally Collective, and more… all paving the way for Two Weeks In Nashville to strut their stuff!

Support

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing fundraising@localandlive.org if you have any sponsorship enquiries or ideas, we would love to hear from you. Any individual or business can advertise on our giant screen positioned next to the stage in Calverley Grounds, it’s a great way to support the festival with ads starting at just £40. Our crowdfund page is available at: justgiving.com/campaign/ localandlive2023

Thanks for all your support and interest

Local & Live Listings

Line-ups are subject to change. Please visit localandlive.org for the latest updates. The entire festival is free entry

Friday August 25

Calverley Grounds

5pm – Reptile Kin

5:40pm – Valentine

6.20pm – The River Flows

7pm – Night Without Sleep

7.40pm – The Next Agenda

8.20pm – Black Gabanza

9.10pm – Code: Marla

The Forum

Grammar Vedetta

Sean de Burca

Yet To invent

All The Above (headline)

Saturday August 26

Calverley Grounds

12pm – The Tilston sisters

12.30pm – The Colas

1pm – Biddle

1.30pm – Charlie Krikorian

2.10pm – Elliott Graham

2.50pm – Jez Harley

3.30pm – Krow Tao

4.10pm – Anna Howie

4.50pm – Indya

5.30pm – Perry Ripley

6.10pm – Wild Horse

6.50pm – Wake up leo

and roll on the weekend! You can find us at @localandlive on Facebook and Instagram and @Local_and_Live on Twitter. The festival website is: localandlive.org

I look forward to seeing you there!

7.30 – Kumala

8.10pm – James Kirby 9.05pm – Cyrano (headline)

The Forum Dull Knife Superzero (headline)

The Bedford pub

In association with Local & Live, The Jay Harmer Foundation is raising funds for Tree of Hope, Tunbridge Wells based charity.

2pm – Acoustic Alchemy

4pm – P E Tripp

5pm – Still Upright

7pm – The New Fighters 10pm – D’mello (headline)

Sunday August 27

Calverley Grounds 12pm – Vox

– Lauren V 1pm – Jennifer Lee Ridley 1.30pm – Erika Olson

2pm – Zoe Nicol

2.35pm – Ash Dodd

3.10pm – Cally Collective

3.50pm – Steffan James

4.30pm – Will Page

5.10pm – The Paul Dunton Orchestra

6pm – The Charlie Rivers Band

6.40pm – The Polygons

7.20pm – Prison Beach Club

8pm – Karobela

9pm – Two Weeks In Nashville (headline)

The Forum Coney Island Maybe The Ackerleys The Breretons (headline)

Monday 28th August

The Forum

1.30pm – The Street Lights

2.15pm – Candela Quinn

3pm – Ben Lewes

3.45pm – Leo & Tingley

4.30pm – Ryan Weeks

5.15pm – The Ashen Keys

6pm – The Fiery Lights

6.55pm – Essie West

7.50pm – Higgs & The Bosons 8.45pm – Catching Mangoes (headline)

The Sussex Mews

1.15pm – Amelia 2pm – Doris Amy

2.45pm – Sofia Lovell

3.30pm – Jack Leon Mackey

4.15pm – Sean Alexander

5pm – Special guest act

5.45pm – Nick Stephens 6.30pm – Luke Fraser

– Shep & Co (headline)

Paul Dunton Founder of Local & Live

Picture: David Warren

Picture: Nigel Martin Photography

Picture: Nigel Martin Photography

Picture: Nigel Martin Photography

Meet the headline acts...

CODE MARLA

Get ready to be captivated by the fusion of live electronic music and ground-shaking nu-metal, interwoven with intricate textures and harmonies.

Led by the incredibly talented CJ Thorpe, along with vocalists Billy and Sonia, guitarists Fraser and Rick, and rounded off with new live drummer, Alastair, Code: Marla are all about their love for sound and creating fun vibes.

Code Marla’s unique blend of soulful melodies and infectious rhythms will have you dancing the night away, so don’t miss out

on witnessing one of the hottest acts in the music scene right now.

TWO WEEKS IN NASHVILLE

After discovering their sound and identity on a trip to Nashville, Two Weeks in Nashville conceived their name as a tribute to the music capital of the world. Best known for their raucous and electric live shows, they have headlined grassroots venues across the UK and supported Supergrass, Scouting For Girls, The Hoosiers and Toploader.

CYRANO

Cyrano are a rock four-piece comprised of Joe Ackerley, Tim Hubbard, Matt Wilson and Karl Barton.

As veterans of the Tunbridge Wells local music scene, they have built a large underground following around London and Kent. Cyrano have two albums available to download, stream and on CD – ‘I You Us Them’ and ‘Cyrano’. They also have a new EP ‘Bargaining Chip’, which is recorded and coming out very soon.

CODE MARLA CYRANO

TWO WEEKS IN NASHVILLE

Number 1 for fun!

BEWL WATER AQUA PARK

WEEKDAY SESSIONS

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REVIEWS

SCANHer e toBook

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

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

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

Property news on your doorstep

Sponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells

Your dedicated guide

All you need to know about the current housing and commercial market in Tunbridge Wells and the wider area

What you need to know about changes to Energy Performance Certificates

By Stuart Killacky of Handelsbanken

AS the government works towards its target of reaching net zero emissions by 2050, it has been looking to tackle emissions across all sectors of the economy, including properties.

Legislation introduced in 2015 established Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for both residential and commercial properties, requiring these properties to have a minimum EPC rating of E in order to be let out.

From April 1, 2018, MEES requirements came into force, meaning it is now unlawful to let properties, whether domestic or commercial, on a new lease with an EPC rating lower than E. On April 1, 2020, the band E threshold was further extended to existing privately rented residential properties.

MEES requirements have now been

extended to all existing commercial leases as of April 1, 2023, with a requirement for all domestic tenancies to be at an EPC rating of C from April 1, 2028. At the moment, there is a notable lack of government support for residential properties. However subsidies are currently available to assist with the cost and installation of heat pumps or new boilers. It remains to be seen what further changes will be required, as regulations and processes may be altered in the future. Nevertheless, landlords will want to stay abreast of the latest developments in order to make sure they are staying on the right side of the law.

Home from home in the North Downs

THIS truly stunning four/five-bedroom detached family home with garage is gracefully positioned on an expansive 0.35-acre plot nestled within the highly sought-after roads of Halstead. The property has been thoughtfully expanded and exquisitely refurbished by the current owners, resulting in a residence ideally tailored to contemporary buyers’ needs. The spacious open-plan living areas seamlessly integrate with a sleek, modern aesthetic, reflecting a perfect blend of form and function.

Step outside, and you’ll be greeted by a truly exceptional 180-foot rear garden, which is positioned to enjoy the warmth of the westerly evening sun. This inviting

outdoor haven offers ample space for relaxation, recreation, and the cultivation of greenery.

The property offers is close to Polhill Garden Centre, Halstead Village, and offers swift access to the A21/M25, which is merely a mile away.

Sought-after schools are conveniently situated nearby, including the esteemed St Olave’s Grammar in Orpington, a mere 2.5 miles away. Halstead Primary is just 0.8 miles away and Knockholt Primary, 2.8 miles, making these excellent school options which are all easily accessible.

For more information, contact the Langford Russell Sevenoaks office on 01732 443 333 or sevenoaks@langfordrussell.co.uk

STUART KILLACKY

Picture: Shutterstock

VISIT US IN ROBERTSBRIDGE!

WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO HELP WITH MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN AND GARDEN.

Give yourself a headstart in the rental market

By Vicky Shaw

COMPETITION for rental homes is fierce right now, with multiple tenants chasing properties on the market.

Recent analysis from Rightmove found that property agents were receiving 20 inquiries in May 2023 to view each rental home on average – a surge from 2019 figures, when the average was six per property.

Rents have also risen sharply, with landlords facing their own increased costs from mortgage rate hikes. According to estate agent Hamptons, the average rent on a newly-let property in Britain rose to a record high of £1,273 per month in June.

So, in such a difficult market, how can tenants searching for a home put themselves in the best position possible?

Tim Bannister, a property expert at Rightmove, believes there are some steps tenants can take to improve their chances.

“Tenants need to make sure they are really organised in sorting out their necessary documentation, getting their finances in order, and sorting their references quickly,” suggests Bannister. “Being really clear about your requirements, for example when you could move into a property, how long you anticipate staying in the property, and who you plan to move in with, can help agents keep you in mind for the right properties.”

Speaking to your bank may not seem like an obvious thing to do, but for some tenants it could help.

“Firstly, if you’re in a tough spot and not sure where to turn for help, speaking to your bank is a good place to start,” says Claire Shaw, a Societal Impact Manager at First Direct. “This could be for a range of reasons, including if you have issues in your current tenancy, if you’re struggling to raise a deposit or generally in a difficult position financially.

“First Direct has a partnership with Shelter that is geared towards supporting renters who need legal advice, as well as a trained team of money coaches that can help provide practical financial tips and guidance.” If you are struggling to raise a deposit, for example, Shaw suggests your bank may be able to offer support: “If

properties, there are some straightforward steps people can take to get an advantage.

you’re looking for help around saving a lump sum, this is also something your bank can support with, including choosing the best saving account and putting together a plan of action to achieve your saving goals.”

And if you’re really struggling with your finances, your bank might also be able to look at alternative solutions or signpost to external support. Shaw adds: “In terms of managing the steep competition for

“Firstly, get a thorough understanding of all the required info you may need in advance of the viewing – including whether you might require a guarantor, the value of the deposit needed, council tax band info, EPC (energy performance certificate) rating and anything else that might influence your decision. This will avoid you wasting time viewing unsuitable properties.

“Equally, get an understanding of all the details the landlord or agency will need from you, so you can act fast if you want to apply. Ensure your references are sorted in advance, that you have proof of earnings, and that you can pay any admin fees quickly to secure the property.”

Adam Fairweather, a Regional Lettings Director at Hamptons, says applicant figures “are still eye-wateringly high”, adding that, in the past some tenants would have had offers agreed “without hesitation by landlords who would be very happy with the prospective tenant profile”. He points out that pressures on rental demand vary across the whole market, adding: “There is more choice at the highest budget ranges, but this prime part of the market, in terms of transaction volumes, is naturally small.”

The “mid and entry-level” parts of the market face the greatest pressures, Fairweather believes. He adds: “We work really hard to help the prospective tenants looking for this type of property, knowing how tough this must be for them.

Getting to know the local letting agents in your area could also help improve your chances when a suitable property comes up

Picture: Alamy/PA

We

What our clients say…

"The team had a huge amount of knowledge and every step was handled in a professional manner. Their excellent relationship with the local planning department helped achieve a fantastic result for us. We would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone who wants to achieve planning".

Amanda and Robert Petch

June 2016

"The cost involved to try and get planning on our land were just not feasible for us. Working with Country House meant we didn’t have to risk our money as they took care of everything"

Mr C Partridge (Loose, Kent)

September 2016

“Guy and team at CHH did a fantastic job securing planning permission on our rear garden plot. Although a fairly problematic application (which took over 18 months), they kept us informed throughout the entire process. I would certainly use them again”

David J (Oxted, Surrey)

January 2017

Viewing this weekend for character apartment on sale in Tunbridge Wells

YOUNGER TENANTS ARE OPTING FOR GREENER PROPERTY RENTALS

A RARE opportunity has arisen to purchase this beautifully presented two-bedroom ground-floor apartment, with a private entrance and courtyard garden.

This property boasts high ceilings and beautiful, unique windows throughout. The large entrance door opens into the lounge which is modern and tastefully decorated. There is a door to the main bedroom, and a doorway through to an inner hall, with doors to the dining room, second bedroom and bathroom. Both bedrooms are bright and airy, with space for double beds, while the main bedroom has a large storage cupboard. The recently fitted kitchen, accessed via the dining room, offers a range of modern units, a butler-style sink, wood block-style

worktop and hardwood flooring. The modern bathroom features a bath with a shower over. Outside there is a private courtyard area with space for a table and chairs. This apartment also benefits from an off-road parking space. It is currently being let as an Airbnb, so is available for sale chain free. Situated between Tunbridge Wells and High Brooms, this property is perfectly positioned for commuters or a small family. Within walking distance are two mainline stations, highly regarded primary and secondary schools and lots of other local, convenient amenities.

The property is available to view on August 25 and 26. For further details, contact KMJ Property on 01892 515188 or visit: kmjproperty.co.uk

Create a gourmet garden kitchen in your new home

Landlords are being advised to ensure that their properties are hitting the right notes for environmentally conscious tenants. Rising costs of living, combined with the ever-increasing challenges of owning their own property, are prompting tenants to scrutinise the costs of running rental properties. James Richards, Partner of award-winning Sales and Lettings Agent, Maddisons Residential, discusses the reasons..

Competition for rental properties is currently high, with tenants taking on average 20 viewings to find their next home. Most will be looking for a longer-term tenancy and the security that they won’t be having to search again whilst rental prices are rising.

But despite demand outstripping supply, nearly 72 per cent of renters questioned for the recent Rental Housing Trends and Preferences report stressed how important it is for their building to be managed in an environmentally friendly way. The study by MRI Solutions, a global leader in real estate technology solutions, also found nearly three quarters want their landlord or property manager to have technologies in place to ensure their rental properties are energy-efficient spaces.

75 per cent of younger renters, aged 18-24, were found to be much more likely to agree that environmental credentials were vital, compared to just 67 per cent of those aged over 65. Most interestingly, the findings revealed that nearly half of all respondents see the lack of green building management as a dealbreaker, with 59 per cent of 18-24-year-olds likely to take this more rigid stance when renting.

Landlords wanting to remain attractive to tenants will do well to consider investing in greener rental properties and new builds or improving existing stock to achieve the best EPC ratings. Although the government hasn’t enforced the EPC standard rating of C, it doesn’t hurt to get ahead of the game. With the younger population struggling to get on the property ladder, it’s key to tap into this rental demographic with a longer-term view.

By Tim Sykes of Gardenproud

AN outdoor entertaining area could be just the thing to set off your garden and revolutionise the use of your new terrace.

If you enjoy entertaining your friends and relatives and enjoy the odd barbecue, this could be just the feature to build into your home improvement plans. Sales of outdoor kitchens are burgeoning, and manufacturers are seeking new gourmet recipes for you to serve up and impress the most discerning of foodies.

I recently invested in a Gozney Roccbox pizza oven, only to find myself utilising its superb all-round heat to serve up delicious steak casseroles and roasted scallops!

A well-planned outdoor kitchen will have areas for preparing food, cooking appliances and storage, plus areas for socialising with friends and relatives.

A recent scheme we designed in St Albans incorporates a lounge, eating space, outdoor kitchen

and wellness area. This adjoins the kitchen and living rooms of the house. Our client was a keen cook and here the outdoor kitchen augmented the appliances indoors, so it all worked in an integrated fashion. We were not seeking to replace or duplicate but incorporate appliances that would contribute fresh flavours and recipe ideas.

If you incorporate this along with an outdoor pergola or arbour, its protective cover can give the kitchen area definition and extend its use. Lighting extends the use further beyond sunset.

Many new contemporary pergolas include roof vanes that can be adjusted to create shade and close altogether to shelter cooks should the weather turn against you. These can be mechanical or electric. The same structures can also support perimeter lighting and heating for cooler evening entertaining.

The outdoor kitchen can be a feature you can use all year round!

For further information, contact Gardenproud at 07725 173820 or visit: reallygardenproud.com

Meet the expert: James Richards is a Partner at Maddisons Residential, leading independent Sales and Lettings Agent in Tunbridge Wells, offering expert sales and lettings advice with excellent customer service.

Picture: Renson Pergolas

The Sevenoaks Property Experts

Westerham, TN16

£1,500,000 F/H

Guide price – £750,000-£795,000 F/H

A wonderful chain-free investment opportunity, this Grade II listed Georgian fronted farmhouse comes complete with a stable block conversion comprising two self-contained apartments.

Tonbridge, TN12

A stunning detached property, located in a sought after rural setting in Toys Hill, adjacent to numerous woodland walks and National Trust’s Emmetts Gardens.

LIVE THE DREAM

At Sited we are specialists in sourcing desirable plots so you can realise your dream home.

The Sited bespoke journey – source the plot/secure planning/project manage the build

We make dreams a reality – contact Sited to provide the optimum site finding service for your dream home.

At Sited we source exceptional sites for clients requiring a bespoke service – facilitating the dream of developing their own home.

Look beyond the exterior to find the true beauty of a property

Summer slowdown for rental properties

By Becky Moran of TN Lettings

AUGUST is notoriously quiet for rental properties and this year is no exception – whatever the weather! With people going away and taking time off work, interest in rentals and moving house is low. While we don’t want to wish away the summer, we are looking forward to September and back to school – and back to ‘normal’. Apart from the summer silly season, the general level of buy-to-let mortgages being taken out is also low. Normally this would hugely affect the number of new rentals. However, we are seeing new rental properties becoming available because of increases in mortgage rates and the cost of living. We have heard many tales from people whose circumstances have changed

and they have found themselves unable to sell their property, choosing instead to let it. So properties are out there and it’s always worth asking your local letting agent what they have, or what will soon be available. You could even beat the other rental seekers if you can do so in August! Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean you can move within a matter of days – with both landlords and tenants away over the summer, we are finding properties are taking between six and eight weeks to rent out.

If you would like advice on the rental market in and around Tunbridge Wells, or are looking to either rent out your property or find a property to rent, please contact us today on 01892 249070 or visit: tnlettings.co.uk

By Stephen Donnelly of Sited

NOT every property is immediately desirable to the mainstream market, and in many cases the ‘ugly duckling’ is just waiting for the right buyer to transform it into a swan. Using traditional methods of sale is not always the right approach for some properties and may not be the ideal way to optimise the value and secure the most appropriate buyer. For some, the thought of showing people a property which may lack obvious appeal can be daunting, especially when receiving negative feedback, which is just insulting. At Sited, we work with homeowners, solicitors and receivers to present properties to their best potential and have clients who can look beyond what others

might see as a reason not to buy.

We relish the opportunity to sell properties in need of redecoration, refurbishment, renovation or reconstruction. Structural problems are not an issue if the property is priced correctly.

We work with homeowners and commercial property owners to find a solution to selling their buildings by enabling the buyer to see through the obvious blemishes and uncover the opportunities within. Never underestimate the value of a property with potential! Sited can provide an alternative service to the usual methods of sale. Contact us for further information or an informal discussion on 01892 579937 or steve@sited.land

Mortgages that work for you, without the hard work

HAWKENBURY OIRO £750,000

A fantastic 3-bedroom semi-detached family home with new driveway a recently replaced Spanish slate roof (10 year warranty). The accommodation comprises; hallway, spacious living room with large bay window, log burner and Amtico flooring, kitchen/ dining room, garage/ storage room, additional reception room currently being used as an office. On the first floor are 2 double bedrooms and a sizeable single bedroom, modern family bathroom. Externally is a landscaped garden, offering 2 paved seating areas, a lawn and mature shrubs and trees. Situated at the bottom of the garden is a considerable outbuilding/workshop. Potential to extend (STP).EPC D, Council Tax D.

CROWBOROUGH £750,000

This 4 bedroom detached property benefits from a large driveway, providing plenty off road parking, in addition to a garage. The accommodation comprises; living room benefitting from a feature fireplace and stunning bay windows, kitchen/diner, the utility space and W.C. The first floor of the property comprises; 4 double bedrooms, en-suite and a family bathroom. Externally, there is a substantial rear garden, laid to lawn, offering a variety of mature shrubs. EPC D, Council Tax F.

RUSTHALL

OIRO £400,000

3 bedroom, terraced, family home. The accommodation comprises; bay fronted living room with feature fireplace, dining room, galley style kitchen, downstairs modern family bathroom offering a shower over the bath. The first floor of the property offers 2 double bedrooms, and a further single bedroom that is accessed via the second bedroom. Subject to planning, the loft offers opportunity to extend as it is partially boarded and has velux windows. The property also has a rear garden. EPC D, Council Tax C.

In a spin: why this DJ believes music can bring people together and also inspire them

styles but also establishes a distinct separate vibe that gradually builds in energy, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the event.

What do you think you will enjoy most about Local & Live?

The festival is an incredible platform for artists to share their passion and connect with music enthusiasts from all walks of life. I am truly honoured to be a part of this event and bring my Summer of Love set to the main stage. I am looking forward to working with the amazing team and talented musicians involved with this event.

And finally, you were interviewed on BBC Radio Kent earlier this year where you spoke about how dance music and mental health are connected. Can you tell me more about this?

As part of its 18th anniversary celebrations, the Local & Live festival, which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend at Calverley Grounds and various satellite sites, is featuring its first DJ set, courtesy of Marcel Mendez. Eileen Leahy spoke to the local DJ, who works on a global stage...

So Marcel, when did you get started in music and why?

My love of music came from growing up in Uruguay surrounded by local rhythms and my parents either performing or playing music in the house. I have always been fascinated by percussive sounds, and in Uruguay, we are heavily influenced by Latin and African music, which, in turn, has played a significant role in shaping the way I love the perform.

When did you move from Uruguay to Tunbridge Wells?

I came to the UK when I was quite young with my brother and sister. My father came to work for the airline, Varig, managing logistics for Lotus Formula 1 and my mother worked at Amnesty International and was also as Head of Languages at Beechwood Sacred Heart School in Tunbridge Wells. My parents also owned a shop in The Pantiles called Macchu Pichu which sold Latin American artefacts so there has been a connection with Tunbridge Wells over many years. Recently I bumped into Carlos who owns the Grey Lady in The Pantiles who said that he remembered their shop and especially the music that was played in it. He said it always made him smile and reminded him of Chile!

Have you always been a danceorientated DJ or do you dip into other musical genres?

When I was younger I played in a number of semi-pro covers bands which gave me an appreciation of performing with live musicians. I was really lucky to work with a number of talented musical directors and artists from Sylvia Young theatre school and the Brit School of Performing Arts quite early on. One of the most exciting gigs I first had was performing at the Perugia festival in Italy. When I was eighteen I held my first DJ residency and back then it was very much about soul and the emergence of house music. Coming to live in the UK exposed me to so many different genres from reggae, soul, disco, house, indie, ska

and rock, which made me become obsessed with collecting music and trying to learn to mix different genres, styles of music known as open format DJ’ing.

Where do you tend to DJ most? Is it in Ibiza, London or Tunbridge Wells?

It’s a mix, really. I enjoy playing abroad and also locally. I have DJ’d at everything from private parties, to performing at corporate events for the likes of Sir Richard Branson. I’ve also played at the Sweaty Betty fashion show and at the legendary Cafe del Mar in Ibiza. My last overseas gig was in July at Space Eat & Dance, also in Ibiza. I’d describe it as a fusion of sunset, soul-stirring music, and amazing food, all set against the backdrop of San Antonio’s iconic sunset strip. I love being a part of special occasions. Whether it’s a club night, a festival, a wedding, or a private party, being a DJ allows me to be a part of people’s most memorable moments. Providing the soundtrack for these events and seeing everyone having a great time is truly fulfilling.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

One of the best things about my job is connecting with people. Music is a universal language, and as a DJ, I get to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It’s amazing to witness how music brings everyone together and can create a sense of unity and joy. I love discovering fresh tracks and artists, keeping up with trends, and surprising my audience with different sounds. As a DJ, I love the ability to control the energy of the crowd and create moments on the dancefloor. Seeing people react and connect to the music I play is incredibly rewarding. Being a DJ allows me to express my creativity and musical taste. With today’s digital DJ’ing I can curate unique sets and experiment with different genres, remixes, and mashups to create a distinctive sound.

You’re next playing at Local & Live and will be the festival’s first DJ set.

How did you get involved?

I have been collaborating with a number of local musicians for a few years now and have played at a number of festivals including working with headline acts such as Toploader at Pub in the Park. So I think I was on Local & Live organiser Paul Dunton and the trustees’ radar as a possible candidate. Paul then got in touch to say that they would like to get me on board as the DJ for Local & Live in order to bring something new to the event.

When are you playing and what do you think your set will add to the three-day festival?

I will be performing on the festival’s main stage, Calverley Gardens on Saturday August 26, and Sunday August 27. While I’ve been asked to bring my Summer of Love set that debuted in Ibiza in July, I am keen on injecting some eclectic surprises and my own exclusive summer edits into the mix for the Local & Live festival. This means spending time in the studio, rehearsing and testing out new ideas to ensure that my set is fresh and tailor-made for the event. I will also focus on the audience’s reactions. So instead of sticking to a predetermined playlist, I continuously gauge the crowd’s response and adapt my music selection accordingly. I am continually striving to deliver exactly what the audience wants but I am conveying it in my own style. If I can make people smile, I know that I have done a good job!

How will you prepare for your Local & Live sets and do you let the audience guide the playlist?

I thoroughly research all the acts that will be performing on the main stage at the festival. I make sure to spend time at the event itself, observing the crowd and understanding their musical preferences. As the one responsible for setting the tone on both days and building excitement for the live acts, I take the time to delve deeper into the acts’ styles, genres, and popular tracks. My ultimate goal is to create a set that not only complements the performers’

Yes, it’s something that I’m passionate about and I want to support in order to help others, as dance music can help people in so many different ways. Earlier this year DJ Cookie, AKA Jaime Cooke founder of SPN, and I transformed Salomons Estate into an immersive Ibiza-Tulum styled club to help raise funds and awareness for Tunbridge Wells Mental Health Resource. It is a local charity that provides safe spaces and person-centred mental health support in West Kent. Any donations would be really appreciated! And you can make them through their website: mentalhealthresource.org.uk

Follow Marcel Mendez here: Instagram: @marcelmendezmusic Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/ marcelmendezmusic

To find out more about Local & Live visit: localandlive.org

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The joy of sax…

Jenni Millar, saxophonist and Sales Consultant at Brittens Music, tells the Times about the fashionable appeal of the saxophone for a younger audience

IN the world of music, trends often come and go. However, one instrument that has managed to maintain its cool factor among young people is the saxophone. With its sultry tones and iconic presence, the saxophone has found a place in the hearts of the youth, transcending generations and musical genres.

Jenni, 18, has been playing the saxophone for five years. “I have always admired musicians such as Charlie Parker and John Coltrane, their music is incredible so one day I just decided I wanted to learn to play the sax and hit those notes, too.”

Cool

The saxophone’s fashionable status among young musicians can be attributed to several key factors:

Let’s be honest, the sax looks cool. The instrument exudes an air of sophistication and allure that is hard to ignore. Its smooth curves and shiny brass or silver finish give it an aesthetic appeal that captures the eye, making it an instrument that is not just played, but also showcased with pride.

“We regularly hold instrument try-out days at Brittens Music, and each time we never fail to see young children and teenagers eagerly pick up the saxophone first, keen to hold it and look ‘cool’, seeing if they can play notes like they see in the movies,” Jenni explains.

Its playability spans musical genres. From

slimming-friendly tikka masala

Contact

Monday

Pembury Pembury Baptist Church

1 Romford Road, TN2 4HT

Monday 5.30pm Call Jesse 07710549334

We are currently recruiting a new consultant for this Group. Contact Jesse to find out more about this exciting Opporutinity 07710 549334

slimmingworld.co.uk

#YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld

Cranbrook Cranbrook Rugby Cricket Club Angley Road Cranbrook, TN17 2PN

Monday 7pm Call Debbie 07789776887

the sensuous melodies of jazz and the infectious rhythms of funk to the expressive solos in rock and the energetic pop hooks, the saxophone has proven its versatility time and time again.

“My favourite genres of music to play on the sax are jazz and rock – the instrument is so expressive, whether I’m playing something melancholy or an upbeat tune like ‘Baker Street’ the tones are emotional.” Pop culture has increased its popularity. Iconic characters, such as Lou Marini in The Blues Brothers and the streetwise Lisa Simpson in the hit TV series The Simpsons have added a sense of allure to the instrument emphasising its cool image. Social media platforms are an easy stage. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram allow young musicians to showcase their skills and creativity to a global audience. Short video clips of saxophone performances have gone viral, captivating viewers and inspiring them to take up the instrument themselves.

If you’re inspired to have a go playing the saxophone, come to the Brittens Music showroom on Grove Hill Road.

Alternatively, you can come along to their next instrument try-out day which will be held at The Amelia Scott on Sunday September 3, where the saxophone, along with a huge range of other instruments will be available to explore and play.

For more information visit: brittensmusic.co.uk

Tuesday

slimming-friendly tikka masala

Cranbrook Cranbrook Rugby Cricket Club Anglet Road Cranbrook, TN17 2PN

Tuesday 9.15am & 11am Call Debbie 07789776887

Rusthall St Pauls Primary School Entrace Via Gladstone Road, TN4 8RZ

Tuesday 5.30pm Call Jesse 07710549334

We are currently recruiting a new consultant for this Group. Contact Jesse to find out more about this exciting Opporutinity 07710 549334

Wednesday

Paddock Wood Paddock Wood Community Centre Maidstone Road Tonbridge, TN12 6EB

Wednesday 9.30am Call Simone 07738681969

High Brooms St Lukes Church Hall Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9JH

Wednesday 5.30pm & 7pm Call Jesse 07710549334

Ramslye St Marks C of E Primary School Ramslye Road, TN4 8LN

Wednesday 7pm Call Susie 07717177892

Thursday

Crowborough All Saints Church Hall Church Road, TN6 1ED

Thursday 9.30am, 11am, 5.30pm & 7pm Call Mary 07738014528

Friday

Crowborough All Saints Church Hall Church Road, TN6 1ED

Friday 9.30am & 11am Call Mary 07738014528

Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a friendly and super-supportive group today!

Crowborough Crowborough Community Centre Pine Grove, TN6 1FE

Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Beckie 07948352691

Paddock Wood Paddock Wood Community Centre Maidstone Road,TN12 6EB

Tuesday 5.30pm & 7pm Call Simone 07738681969

slimmingworld.co.uk

#YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld

Saturday

Tunbridge Wells St Barnabas Primary School

Quarry Road, TN1 2EY

Saturday 8am & 9.30am Call Jesse 07710549334

Ringing the culinary changes

IF you can’t go on holiday this summer, why not get away from it all courtesy of a trip to The Eight Bells in Hawkhurst? Not only is this historic 18th-century pub and restaurant a joy to while away the hours in, thanks to its charming interiors and picture-perfect location, it also boasts one of the most beautiful hidden beer gardens in the whole of Kent and East Sussex. Its handmade timber-frame pergolas seat up to 50 people and are also fully waiterserviced so there’s no need to queue at the bar to order your food and drink – meaning you can make the most of this perfect alfresco spot while the sun shines. There’s also a pétanque pitch which is great if you’re heading to this gorgeous country

pub with family and friends when the weather is fine.

On the delicious seasonal menu you’ll find freshly-prepared dishes such as crab salad with spiced avocado, giant grilled prawns and decadent puddings, such as the pub’s famous indulgent chocolate brownie.

Steak nights run every Thursday evening, where you can select your favourite cut of meat and have it cooked to your personal preference.

The pub’s popular roasts are served every Sunday and according to the head chef, the roast sirloin is one not to be missed!

But The Eight Bells isn’t just the ideal pub for the summer months. It also comes into

its own in the winter, thanks to its cosy interiors and mouthwatering menu, which swaps out salads and lighter dishes for heartier ones.

The location of The Eight Bells, just on the edge of the Moor of Hawkhurst, is another factor that makes it a must-visit at the weekends and upcoming holidays as it’s situated very close to some incredible local attractions. These include Bodiam Castle,

Bedgebury Forest, Bewl Water and numerous vineyards, too. Hastings and Rye are only a short drive, which means it’s the perfect pitstop for refreshments. Being so close to many award-winning independent breweries, The Eight Bells also boasts a fantastic selection of local beers including Cellar Head and Battle Brewery. It also serves some of the best locally-produced wines and ciders too. So if you haven’t been yet, then what are you waiting for?

For more information call 01580 389039 or visit: theeight-bells.com

Instagram: Theeightbellsonthemoor

Facebook: TheEightBellsHawkhurst

Open Wednesday-Sunday, 12-11pm. Food served all day.

The Eight Bells in Hawkhurst has so much to offer customers, including a delicious seasonal menu, a great beer garden and local craft ales. The Times savours a taste of this popular historic hostelry…

‘On the delicious seasonal menu you’ll find freshly prepared dishes such as crab salad with spiced avocado and giant grilled prawns’

Try these scrumptious wines for your bank holiday barbecue

By James Viner

THE summer bank holiday is nearly upon us. I’ve decided to dust down the barbecue, grill up a storm for my family and relish some delectable wines on the patio. Splendid enjoyed in the late summer sunshine, these joyful, tasty wines are perfect with the sizzling flavours of your barbecue faves. Happy grilling and chilling – I hope the weather cooperates!

1. 2021 Old Vine Garnacha, Bodegas Aragonesas, Campo de Borja, Aragón, Spain (£6.25, Co-op, coop.co.uk, 14%)

With a splash of Syrah, this bargainous, easy-swigging, low tannin Garnacha from

northeast Spain makes for a convenient BBQ party red. Think crushed red berries and blueberries. Barbecued pork chops and leg of lamb will love its rich juiciness. Don’t serve too warm.

2. NV Radacini Blanc de Noirs, Moldova (£7, Morrisons, groceries.morrisons. com, 12%)

You shouldn’t spend over £15 on a BBQ bottle. With all their punchy flavours, barbecues just aren’t meant for fine wine appreciation. Nothing can make an alfresco gathering sparkle quite like fizz. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon using the tank method, this tastebud-tingling, walletfriendly Moldovan sparkler brims with red

cherries, summer fruit and melon. Perilously easy to drink.

3. 2021 Found Alicante Bouschet, Alentejo, Portugal (£8, Marks & Spencer, marksandspencer.com, 14%)

M&S’s ‘Found’ range concentrates on lesser-known grapes and regions. Alicante Bouschet is a red-fleshed, ‘teinturier’ (dyer) grape that makes (with controlled yields) plush, fruity wines in Portugal’s southernmost province, Alentejo.

With lashings of black pepper and black-fruited oomph, it’s just the ticket with grilled meats.

4. 2022 Luis Felipe Edwards Gran Reserva Pinot Noir, Leyda Valley, Chile (£8.50 Clubcard price, Tesco, tesco.com, 14%)

Here’s a spot-on Chilean Pinot Noir from the cool-climate region of Leyda Valley. Ripe, plump, luscious and redolent of red cherries, Victoria plums and raspberries, it’s fantastic value on the Clubcard price. Lightly chill for burgers, sausages, grilled salmon and barbecued chicken.

5. 2021 Beaujolais-Villages by Louis Claude Desvignes (£11.16, Berry Bros & Rudd, bbr.com saving 20%, until August 31, 13%)

Brilliant, cool, floral, summer puddingfruited, thirst-slaking Beaujolais-Villages, sourced from sappy, velvety Gamay fruit from hilly vineyards in the village of Jullié. Now on a 20 per cent discount at Berry Bros & Rudd and ready for instantaneous satiation. Pop it in the fridge for half an hour

HOUSE CALLS THIS AUGUST IN YOUR AREA

and see how it flutters happily along with most BBQ fare. The sort of summery red that begs you to take another sip, refreshing the palate in between mouthfuls. Such a revitalising contrast to the spice, smoke and heat of the food! Lovely stuff.

6. 2022 The Society’s Exhibition Albariño, Pazo de Señorans, Rías Baixas, Spain (£14.95, The Wine Society, thewinesociety.com, 13%)

Salud to Albariño, the crisp, thickskinned, high acid, never-cheap star grape from rainy Galicia in northwest Spain. Fashionable, aromatically floral-peachygrapefruity-salty Albariño is a true testament to Spain’s contribution to the world of white wine. Don’t miss out on this top-notch, unoaked, mineral-driven bargain from Pazo de Señorans.

It’s packed with succulent peach, nectarine, pink grapefruit and orange zest flavours. Sings with seafood (hello barbecued prawns/sardines!)

Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

TIPS FOR SERVING BBQ WINES

● Chill red wines if it’s above 20°C (68°F) outside; serve them no higher than 18°C (65°F)

● With super spicy fare, consider Gewürztraminer and off-dry Riesling

● Grilled steak-loving Malbec fans should try 2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd Argentinian Malbec by Pulenta (£11.16, 20 per cent discount until August 31)

Experience the escape room you’ll never want to leave

After signing up to be locked inside a room for an hour with zombies and puzzles, I did start to wonder what I had let myself in for.

But after completing the newest escape room at ClueCracker on St John’s Road in Tunbridge Wells, I can’t wait to come back and try out one of their other immersive rooms.

The rooms were incredible, with a remarkable amount of artistic detail and brilliantly clever puzzles that were flawlessly woven into its unique concept.

As an experience that starts before you even enter the room, ClueCracker takes the immersive concept to the next level and will trick your sense of reality, tease your brain, and build your anticipation.

From the second we walked through the door, our Games Master Ben, who controlled the game, had us hooked as he explained the rules, safety instructions and even a few, very much-needed, hints.

On our visit, we tried out the newest room, MEGA BITE, a multi-dimensional escape room which transported us through the digital world of a zombie arcade game.

With original arcade machines, 80s-style games and cartoon zombie theme, Mega Bite is not just another escape room.

The game is full of cheeky humour as you try to navigate your way through the tasks,

cracking the codes and searching for clues hidden in places you would never think of looking in.

It is perfect for everyone, from groups of kids to adult couples, the game is suited to anyone looking for an afternoon activity with a twist.

We were thrown into a room of glowing screens, flashing buttons, and moving parts where we were tasked with finding the antidote and saving the world from zombies.

‘We were thrown into a room of glowing screens, flashing buttons,

ClueCracker is the brainchild of husbandand-wife actors, Ben and Katie Thornton along with their friend, Tom Swift, a local theatre producer.

Throughout the game you see the theatrical minds of Ben, Katie and Tom come to life as you step into these amazing sets, which are incredibly detailed.

It felt like I was stepping on to a Hollywood movie set, with every prop and electrical gadget hand-built and painted by the ClueCracker team.

This, along with the imaginative puzzles totally immersed us into the theatrics of the escape room. So much so that you

and moving parts’

As the trend for immersive puzzle experiences continues, Lilly Croucher and a team of friends tried MEGA BITE, the latest addition to ClueCracker on St John’s Road…

completely forget you’re on a busy high street!

Ahead of going in, I spoke to Ben about how to complete the room. If you’ve never done an escape room before, here are some top tips from the Games Master himself:

1. Search everywhere – In all of the games everything you can see is safe and secure – there no plug sockets to stick your fingers into!

If there is a fire exit you will be told not to touch that but generally, everything you can see is part of the game. If you see a switch, switch it. If you see

something lying on the floor, it’s not an accident. Read everything, look at everything.

2. Spread out – A lot of new players tend to stick together, whereas there is a lot to do, so it’s good to spread out and gather as much information as possible. Teamwork here is key.

3. Communicate – Maybe you’ve both found something that doesn’t mean anything to either of you but if you talk to each other you can start to piece together the task.

While we did attempt to remember Ben’s tips, the adrenaline took over and we were absorbed into the game, but I am proud to say we did finish in a nailbiting time of 59 minutes and 22 seconds! Ben explained that the ClueCracker team’s ideas came from a love of puzzles and having completed many challenges in the past, they thought they could do better – and

they certainly have!

Starting at the Shuffle House in 2019 and expanding to a new location on 59 St John’s Road in 2020, ClueCracker now has four award-winning immersive escape rooms and it’s not hard to see why.

There are four ClueCracker games to try: Jail Break; Diamond Dogs; Temple Quest as well as MEGA BITE

Prices start from £22 per person, with two to six players per team and corporate packages available.

To book your escape, visit cluecrackergames.co.uk

Family fun this bank holiday weekend...

Whether you’re seeking delicious dining experiences or actionpacked adventures, this picturesque town has something for everyone. Here’s a rundown of the must-visit places and their offerings for a memorable bank holiday weekend…

Salomons Estate

Nestled amongst 36 acres of lush gardens, Salomons Estate, a charming Victorian country manor house, invites families to enjoy a spot of British tradition this August bank holiday.

For sweet tooths, afternoon tea is available on the terrace or in the manor house conservatory and is served between 12pm and 4pm. It costs from £25 per person and the seasonal menu celebrates the vibrant flavours of an English summer. Enjoy delicate finger-cut sandwiches, fresh pastries, traditional fruit and vanilla scones, and a sweet selection of sticky, homemade cakes.

If you’re after something heartier, Sunday lunch will be served on August 27. Enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque grounds as you tuck into succulent roasted beef or chicken accompanied by classic sides like Yorkshire puddings and seasonal vegetables. To reserve your table for afternoon tea or Sunday lunch, visit: salomons-estate.com.

The Brasserie

At The Brasserie on Chapel Place, a special offer awaits families seeking a budget-friendly dining experience this

bank holiday weekend. As part of their ongoing summer promotion, kids eat for free with each adult meal ordered.

Children can enjoy popular items from the kid’s menu like fish goujons, vegan nuggets, and beef burgers. Paired with crispy fries and a fresh salad, each main course provides a healthy and satisfying option for hungry young appetites. Dessert is also included, and options include a choice of ice cream or pancakes with maple syrup.

Meanwhile, adults can savour an array of modern twists on classic favourites from The Brasserie’s main menu. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, every dish promises a delightful burst of flavour. And as an extra treat, The Brasserie is giving parents a free cocktail. To make the most of this offer, book your table online at: brasserie-owp.co.uk.

Bewl Water

For families seeking outdoor adventures, Bewl Water, the largest reservoir in southeast England, offers activities fit for all ages.

Kids can unleash their inner pirate aboard the Adventure Pirate Ship, a free outdoor playground featuring slides, climbing frames, and more. Alternatively, explore the indoor soft play area, perfect for children aged 0-8, to navigate tunnels and engage in stimulating fun. Sessions cost £5 for one hour, while those under 12 months go free.

You can also take a family-friendly stroll around the woodlands, and to keep the kids engaged, a free trail map can be collected from the Waterfront Café. Follow the clues to crack the code, before stopping by the ice cream parlour for a sweet treat.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, laser tag, the Aqua Park, and water sports such as paddleboarding await. Complete the experience with a relaxing pedalo ride and something to eat from the Waterfront Café. All activities can be pre-booked online at: bewlwater.co.uk

FAMILY FUN: Bewl Water is perfect for outdoor family adventure

Luxury

Gift vouchers available to purchase online 24/7

Reporter Grace Corcoran picks three books for the week ahead

On the bookshelf this week, Emily Habeck’s surreal love story about a newlywed who turns into a shark, MP Chris Bryant makes his case for radical reform in Westminster and a new collection of short stories from Kate Atkinson…

Shark Heart: A Love Story by Emily Habeck

Published in hardback by Jo Fletcher books, priced £16.99

‘Shark Heart’ follows the story of newlyweds Wren and Lewis who, just weeks after their wedding, discover that Lewis is transforming into a great white shark. Over the next nine months, the couple come to terms with the fact that their first year of marriage will also be their last. In Emily Habeck’s debut novel, she encourages you to suspend your disbelief while we follow Wren and Lewis through his surreal diagnosis as he begins to physically transform into a shark. Throughout the book, the text shifts between prose and play scripts as the couple wade through denial and eventual acceptance of their fate. Despite the magical realism, at its core, ‘Shark Heart’ is a book about loss and inevitable change in life. You will cry, but also feel hopeful as it explores the joy found after grief.

Review by Rikki Loftus

Code Of Conduct: Why We Need To Fix Parliament by Chris Bryant

Published in hardback by Bloomsbury, priced £14.99

A seemingly never-ending run of scandals emanating from Westminster has prompted a string of books diagnosing what is wrong with British politics and suggesting possible fixes. This latest contribution differs from others in that it is by a sitting MP and the current chairman of the Commons Standards Committee – an author intimately acquainted with the workings of Westminster and its disciplinary system. Bryant’s position means the book is peppered with behind-the-scenes anecdotes – he is an engaging storyteller, both in person and on the page – and his conclusions carry considerable authority. But those conclusions are broadly in line with other books on this subject, blaming things like the electoral system, the centralisation of power, and Westminster’s confused panoply of standards bodies for our political ills. He is not necessarily wrong in that, but readers may find they have heard some of this before.

Review by Christopher McKeon

Normal Rules Don’t Apply by Kate Atkinson

Published in hardback by Doubleday, priced £18.99

Normal rules definitely don’t apply to this collection of interlinked stories, where the ordinary and the fantastical sit happily side-by-side. All kinds of stories are inside these tales – fairy stories, creation myths, fantasy, Bible stories, tabloid headlines, soaps, movies and crime. Atkinson’s sly humour percolates all the way through, but there’s also humanity, hope and forgiveness, counter-balanced by the end of the world, greed and unkindness. Even in short stories, Atkinson’s characters are threedimensional and finely drawn – and not always nice. The simplicity of the short story form belies the book’s multi-layered approach. As soon as you get to the end, you’ll be tempted to just start at the beginning again to see the nuances you missed first time around, and tease out the threads that run between each tale.

Review by Bridie Pritchard

Motoring News

This week…

Aston Martin DB12 Volante convertible revealed

ASTON Martin has unveiled the DB12 Volante as a stunning convertible version of its new GT car.

Following the reveal of the DB12 in coupe form earlier in the year, the Volante arrives to provide a more glamorous, roof-down feel.

Making its debut at Monterey Car Week in California, the DB12 is powered by a 671bhp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine – significantly more than the 503bhp the previous DB11 Volante had at its launch in 2018.

That allows the new DB12 to accelerate from 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 202mph.

The DB12 Volante uses a fabric soft-top, featuring eight layers of insulation. It takes just 16 seconds to close electronically and can work at speeds of up to 31mph. It can be opened using the key, too. The roof comes as standard in black, but red, blue and ‘black and silver’ colours are also available.

Like the DB12 Coupe, this Volante model gets a significantly overhauled interior compared to the old DB11. This includes a new 10.25-inch touchscreen with advanced connected services and 3D satellite

navigation mapping. The ‘What3Words’ navigation function is also integrated, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, Amedeo Felisa, said: “For many of our customers, roof-down driving is the greatest pleasure. Aston Martin Volantes have captured that emotion and expressed it in a unique style for more than six decades.

Exceptional

“With the new DB12 Volante we have changed the rules, creating a car that intensifies those feelings by preserving all the purity and exceptional sporting capabilities of the DB12 Coupe. A rare and true sporting convertible in every respect, this is a car to challenge preconceptions and find a new generation of Volante customer.” Aston Martin hasn’t announced pricing for the Volante, but expect a noticeable increase on the £185,000 starting price for the DB12 Coupe. Production is set to begin shortly, with first deliveries expected before the end of the year.

Omoda to enter UK market

CHINESE car brand Omoda has confirmed it will enter the UK market later this year. It will become the latest car firm from China to expand into Europe and the UK as brands from this corner of the world look to take on new markets and increase sales. MG, now owned by Chinese automotive group SAIC Motor, has been the most successful so far, but other firms from the country – including BYD and GWM Ora – are both already operating in the UK.

Launch

Omoda, which is a subsidiary of Chery, one of the biggest car makers in China, focuses exclusively on “desirable urban crossover SUVs” and will launch with just a single model, the ‘5’ SUV. It will be a mid-size vehicle that stands out with its large intricate grille and slim lighting. Unlike other Chinese car brands that are already operating in the UK, or are set to enter, Omoda will sell petrol versions of this SUV alongside an electric model.

Honda’s new CR-V aims to deliver space and efficiency

HONDA has confirmed that its new CR-V will go on sale priced from £45,895. Though already on sale in other markets, the European version was revealed back in May, with the new CR-V being available with both regular and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with the latter able to deliver up to 50 miles of electric-only range. The new CR-V is now larger in all areas than the car it replaces, with an extension of 40mm to the wheelbase.

There will be a 194bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol model in the standard version, while the electric model is expected to bring a range of around 280 miles.

Mr Chen Chunqing, Chief Executive of Omoda, said: “The automotive industry has entered an unprecedented era of intelligent and new energy technology products. Marked by a surge in demand for personalisation and individual expression, we’ve seen the ascent of the SUV segment which now dominates the ten best-selling models globally.

“Omoda aims to stand at the forefront of this transformation. With a projected global sales target of 1.4 million units by 2030, we’re marking Omoda out as a leader in personalised intelligent vehicles worldwide, whilst creating a community platform for owners to share their experiences.”

Omoda says it will launch to “British car buyers at the end of 2023”, with sales expected to start in February 2024. It’s not yet clear how the firm will sell its cars.

Development

It’ll also be the first European model to get a development of Honda’s ‘Sensing’ suite of assistance systems. This new version –called Sensing 360 – provides an ‘omnidirectional safety and driver assist system’ which helps to remove blind spots. It’s all part of Honda’s plans to bring traffic collision fatalities involving its vehicles and

motorcycles to zero by 2050.

All cars get LED lights, a power tailgate and a panoramic glass roof as standard, alongside front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Top-spec Advance Tech models – priced from £53,995 – add in a multi-view camera, keyless entry and a heated steering wheel.

Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK: “Along with a new sophisticated design, luxurious interior and intuitive technology. For the first time, this SUV is also available in either a full hybrid or a plug-in hybrid powertrain, catering to a wider range of customer lifestyles and requirements.”

Available to order from Monday August 14, the new CR-V gets a prominent new grille design which is different for regular and plug-in hybrid versions. This grille is framed by new thin headlights and ‘signature’ daytime running lights.

Aston Martin DB12 soft top ◆ Omoda set for UK launch ◆ Honda announces new CR-V ◆

Picture: Aston Martin

Picture: Omoda

Picture: Honda