Times
All the news that matters
Local, National and International
OU GH OR
USE
SC
NURSERY & PRE-PREP OPEN MORNING
HO
M A R LB
OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS
S , DE EA: OOKN SI ITDM OT E INNRISS NIGBHRUIRDEG -33 I L R 0 CH ORTA NABT S 3 PC E E iSn TFO AG P
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
HOOL
Thursday 17th March | 9.30am | registrar@marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk
ENJOYING TODAY EDUCATING FOR TOMORROW Discover more at marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk
NURSERY, PRE-PREP & PREP | BOYS & GIRLS 2.5-13 YEARS | DAY & FLEXI BOARDING
Opera company rebrands in wake of Ukraine invasion NAME CHANGE Madama Butterfly is set to play Tunbridge Wells
By Robert Forrester AN OPERA company based in Kent has had to rebrand its forthcoming show at the Assembly Hall in Tunbridge Wells due to the current Russian invasion of Ukraine. The March 17 performance of Madama Butterfly had been described as being produced by the ‘Russian State Opera’. However, the production is being produced and performed by English company, Amande Concerts, who are not affiliated or connected with the Russian state in any way and had adopted the title as a brand name before the crisis began.
Cancelled
Town Hall passes its budget which means another rise in Council Tax By Richard Williams TUNBRIDGE Wells Borough Council (TWBC) has had its budget approved, despite fears the financial plan could be voted down. At a Full Council meeting last week (Wednesday, February 23), councillors overwhelmingly voted to pass the £62million budget that had been presented by the Conservative cabinet. The Tories have been running the authority as a minority party after it fell into No Overall Control in May 2021. The party also lost two members to resignations earlier this year and lost last autumn’s Speldhurst & Bidborough
by-election, which means the ruling party has just 21 councillors in the Town Hall compared to the opposition’s combined 26.
‘Council Tax has risen but it is below the present rate of inflation’ There had been fears the budget, which included the using of reserves to shore up of a £2million black hole in the Council’s finances due to plummeting fees such as from car parks, could be voted down.
There is also £2million outlined in the budget for capital spending, which includes upgrades to the Assembly Hall Theatre as well as new lifts to be installed in the theatre, town hall and Camden Centre. Cllr Hugo Pound, the Labour leader at Town Hall, told the chamber last week that his party could not vote for the Council’s budget because it was at ‘odds’ with the party’s policy positions. He said: “Residents across the borough are telling us what’s important to them; bin collections; a clean environment, a healthy, safe place to
See more on page 2
The company has now removed any reference to Russia from its marketing but has said the show later this month may possibly now be cancelled due to the current crisis. In a statement, Amande Concerts, which are based in Canterbury, said: “Russian State Opera is a brand name established by a UK company, Amande Concerts. “This brand acts as an umbrella for the presentation of artists of many different nationalities that have graduated from artistic institutions in Russia and countries that were formerly part of the Soviet Union. “We understand the potential for confusion this name causes, but there is no link between Amande Concerts to the Russian ‘state’ as a political entity.” It continued: “In light of the current situation, Amande Concerts has removed the brand name Russian State Opera’ from all media and replaced with Amande Concerts.” The company is also set to bring a performance of Sleeping Beauty set to the music of Russian composer Tchaikovsky to the Assembly Hall in
Continued on page 2
2
NEWS
Local News
this week… ENGAGING VOLUNTEERS: Local domestic abuse charity DAVSS explains what makes its volunteers so special. P4
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Rebrand for opera company set to play the Assembly Hall Theatre Continued from front page November, although Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC), which runs the Crescent Road theatre, indicated that both performances could now be cancelled.
A spokesperson for TWBC said: “The status of Madama Butterfly on March 17 and Sleeping Beauty on November 22 at the Assembly Hall Theatre is currently being discussed between The Assembly Hall Theatre and Amande Concerts Limited.”
The news comes after several theatres across the UK have scrapped performances by The Russian State Ballet Company of Siberi, which is also currently touring the UK. Theatres in Bristol, Northampton and Wolverhampton have all cancelled the shows.
UK is ‘likely’ to take more Ukrainian refugees Tonbridge MP has been told SILENT SOUNDTRACK: Trinity Theatre presents Buster Keaton’s ‘The General’ with a brilliant live piano accompaniment. P20
BOOK BRAND: The new Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival has attracted some big names. P24
SPOTLIGHT ON TONBRIDGE: At the crossroads of key transport routes, Tonbridge has plenty to commute for. P30
CONTACTS EDITOR RICHARD WILLIAMS richard.williams@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 240626 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 576037 NEWSDESK VICTORIA ROBERTS newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779615 DESIGN/PRODUCTION JASON STUBBS jason.stubbs@onemediauk.co.uk ADVERTISING 0775 7847841 robin.singer@onemediauk.co.uk FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews www.timeslocalnews.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews
Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TF
CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times Local News we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor. One Media and Creative UK Limited is registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.
PRINTED BY MORTONS PRINT LTD Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR
evict those who have done so much to undermine the rights and liberties of the British people. We need to seize their assets, freeze their goods and expel them. “What Russia has done today is an act of war. There is no question about it, no equivocation, no possible excuse.” He added: “We can turn a blind eye. We can pretend that incremental sanctions make a difference. They don’t. Or we can actually take clear action. Given that a hostile state has launched an act of war, we can act now. “We can freeze Russian assets in this country – all of them. We can expel Russian citizens – all of them. “We can make a choice to defend our interests, to defend the British people, and to defend our international partners. Or we can do, sadly, what we’ve done too often in the past – watch until it’s too late and the British people have to pay a much higher price.” For the latest on the Ukraine crisis see page 12.
THE MP for Tonbridge & Malling has said he has spoken to government ministers who have told him the UK is ‘likely’ to follow the EU in taking in Ukrainian refugees for up to three years. Tom Tugendhat, who is also Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, said he had talked with members of Government who were ‘hopeful’ the policy on taking in Ukrainians fleeing the Russian invasion would be reviewed within the coming days. The attack by Russia on Ukraine launched on February 24, has seen around 500,000 Ukrainians flee the nation to safety, many crossing the border to Poland in the west. The government has been criticised for only allowing up to 100,000 immediate family members to join Ukrainians settled in the UK.
Hopeful Asked whether the UK Government had gone far enough in offering sanctuary to refugees, Mr Tugendhat told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Monday [February 28]: “I’ve been speaking to ministers this morning and I can tell you there are many who are hopeful that this will be something that’s reviewed in the coming days.” Asked about the EU’s announcement that member countries would grant asylum to Ukrainian refugees for up to three years, Mr Tugendhat said: “I suspect that’s likely to be where we end up to be honest. I think there’s a definite opportunity to be generous.” He also said that the threat posed by Putin following the Russian leader’s announcement at the weekend that he had put his nuclear deterrent forces on ‘high alert’ was ‘concerning’ but nothing new. The former army officer said: “The Russian military doctrine doesn’t work in the same way as the NATO military doctrine. “They do assume that they may use battlefield nuclear weapons and they see them as just a, if you’ll excuse the expression, a bigger bang. They don’t treat fallout in the same way we do.
CRITICAL Tom Tugenhat
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
“That said, Russia has frequently threatened nuclear deployments in the past. “This is not unusual but at the same time it is concerning, and it is not impossible a Russian military order to use battlefield nuclear weapons could be given.”
Expulsion Mr Tugendhat has for a number of years been a highly vocal critic of the Putin regime. After news of the invasion by Russian forces broke last week, the MP described the sanctions imposed by the west as ‘nothing’ and warned the war could be costly if the UK does step up its response. He also called for the expulsion of Russian citizens from the UK. He told the House of Commons: “We need to
People in Tunbridge Wells wishing to help Ukrainians following Russia’s invasion of the nation are being urged to donate to existing charity programmes. Unicef are helping to truck in safe water to conflict-affected areas and are also providing psychosocial care to children traumatised by the chronic insecurity. unicef.org/ukraine/en/take-action The UN Refugee Agency is working with the authorities of Ukraine, the UN and other partners to provide humanitarian assistance wherever necessary and possible. donate.unrefugees.org.uk Sunflower Of Peace is a local charity gathering medical supplies for paramedics and doctors on the front lines. facebook.com/donate/507886070680475
Council Tax to rise after Town Hall passes budget Continued from front page live; cheaper, accessible transport; more for young families and children; more housing for those in need; a more equitable, fair society in which we can all flourish. “This budget fails to deliver on those important matters.” He continued: “Labour Councillors have repeatedly highlighted the lack of social and affordable housing in our Borough. “It’s simply immoral that there are hundreds of families and individuals in poor and overcrowded housing on our Council’s waiting list; 954 of them this week.”
Significant He added that the budget also lacked ‘significant steps’ in tackling climate change. However, while all five Labour Party members voted against the budget, it was passed 20 votes to five, after both the Lib Dems and Alliance Party abstained. Within the budget was an increase in the borough council’s share of Council Tax, which they collect for other authorities such as KCC, of around £5 or 2.65 per cent for a band D property
over the year. It comes after Council Tax rises were previopusly announced by Kent County Council, Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner as well as the fire service. The average Band D Council Tax across the borough now increases from £1,967.73 to £2,029.76, while those in higher bands could now face bills of more than £3,000. Despite the increase, Leader of the Council Tom Dawlings said the rise was below current inflation levels.
He said: “I am pleased the Council approved the TWBC budget and was then able to set the Council Tax to collect on behalf of KCC, Police, Fire & Rescue Services and Parish/Town Councils. “Of the total amount of £2,029.76 to be charged for a Band D property, an average of just £193.75 is retained by TWBC which is an increase of £5 from last year. “Overall Council Tax in the borough had risen by 3.2 per cent, significantly below the present rate of inflation.”
Your new Council Tax bill and where the money goes:
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
NEWS IN BRIEF
Secondary school places are offered NEARLY 80 per cent of secondary school pupils in Kent have been offered their first choice of school, up from last year’s figure of nearly 70 per cent. Kent County Council (KCC) received 18,311 applications for secondary-aged pupils compared to 18,273 in 2021, but 79.59 per cent of pupils received their first choice of school for this September, compared to 69.70 per cent last year. Meanwhile, 11.41 per cent got their second choice, 3.30 per cent their third choice and 1.06 per cent their fourth choice. Families have until March 15 to accept or reject their offered places, and to fill out the waiting list form, which will feed into the second round of school place offers on April 21.
Your say on town future TUNBRIDGE Wells Borough Council is asking people for their thoughts on the borough as a place to live, work and visit. A new consultation in the form of a survey is running online until March 22 where respondents can tell the Council what improvements they think can be made. A spokesperson for TWBC said the feedback from the consultation will form the basis for ‘future engagement activities and plans based on what people say is needed’. The consultation can be found at twbc. online/planningforthefuture.
Jewel thief is jailed A TUNBRIDGE Wells burglar who stole almost £44,000 worth of jewellery from a High Street shop before fleeing on an electric scooter has been jailed. Frederick Webb forced open the front door of the jewellers on October 29 last year and smashed several display cabinets. He was tracked down after trying to use a stolen bank card on the same street in November. Following his arrest, Webb’s Vicarage Road address was searched and most of the stolen jewellery from the break-in was recovered. The 36-year-old pleaded guilty to burglary, theft and three frauds at Maidstone Crown Court. He was jailed for two years and five months’ last week.
GREG CLARK MP ADVICE SURGERIES
If you have an individual problem which you think I can help with or you would like to have a chat about a more general issue, please do get in touch. I am holding regular advice surgeries – by zoom or telephone. To make an appointment, please call:
01892 519854 or email:
greg.clark.mp @parliament.uk
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
NEWS
3
Football is ‘coming home’ as World Cup finals set to be played in Tunbridge Wells (Albeit only the miniature table-top version) By Victoria Roberts THE World Cup of Subbuteo is ‘coming home’ to Tunbridge Wells, 78 years after the table-top football game was first invented in the area. The Subbuteo FISTF World Cup 2024 (the Federation of International Sports Table Football) is set to be played at Tunbridge Wells Leisure Centre in September 2024. It is the first time the tournament has been held in the birthplace of the game, although an international game between England and Belgium did take place in 1960. The World Cup is expected to involve 32 countries, with up to 64 tables playing at any one time.
Popular England was not the only bid to host the tournament. Brazil had also pitched but withdrew its application upon learning ‘the event could be played in Tunbridge Wells, the home of the game’). Greece had also made a bid to host the finals, but the English Subbuteo Association’s (ESA) decision to give the Games to the home of the game was ‘unanimous’, said vice chairman, Alan Lee. The Subuteo World Cup was last held in the UK in 2012, in Manchester. The game was invented in 1946 by Tunbridge Wells resident Peter Adolph, and early production of Subbuteo also took place in the area. It was originally sold by mail order from his mother’s house in Langton Green but went on to become a massively popular table-top game
THREE LIONS The Subbuteo World Cup is coming to Tunbridge Wells and [inset] the England starting 11 during the 1960s, 70s and 80s. TWBC gave full support to the ESA bid to the Federation of International Sports Table Football to host the 2024 event.
Origins The news came out at the full Council meeting last Wednesday night, announced by the Council’s head of Environment, Culture and Leisure, Cllr Jane March. She said: “The 2024 Subbuteo World Cup will
take place here in Royal Tunbridge Wells – the natural home of the game that was invented and manufactured in Langton Green. “This will be a huge event for the town and the wider borough, and we are confident that it will reawaken and unite Subbuteo and Table Football fans from all over the world.” She added that ‘The Story of the Wells’, one of the galleries inside the town’s new Amelia Scott cultural centre building that is opening in late April, will also feature the origins and history of Subbuteo.
Inquiry chairman has released questions he wants answered over hospital crimes By Richard Williams THE former NHS chief who is leading the investigation into the crimes of David Fuller has outlined the questions he wants answered during the inquiry. David Fuller is currently serving a whole life sentence for murders of Wendy Knell, 25, and Caroline Pierce, 20, in Tunbridge Wells in 1987. He was also convicted of a further 51 sexual offences, after his activities at Tunbridge Wells Hospital and its forerunner the Kent and Sussex Hospital were discovered on his arrest.
Phases Former NHS Chief Executive, Sir Jonathan Michael, is leading the investigation into the former hospital electrician and how he was able to abuse more than 100 bodies in mortuaries in Tunbridge Wells over a 12-year period. Sir Jonathan has now composed his terms of reference for the inquiry after he contacted affected families and other interested parties during January and February to ask their views. The questions Sir Jonathan is planning to answer will be split into two phases. The first will focus on the process by which David Fuller was recruited and employed by the NHS and by private sector facilities maintenance service providers during the period 1989 to 2020 and whether appropriate and adequate checks were carried out prior to and during his employment. He said the inquiry team will also try to determine what access Fuller was given to the mortuary, as well as to identify any other illegal or ‘inappropriate’ activities he may have
committed elsewhere on the premises. Sir Jonathan will also look into the arrangements Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust made for management of the mortuary, including security and access to safeguard the bodies of the deceased.
Recommendations Phase two is set to consider whether procedures and practices in all hospital and medical settings where bodies of the deceased are kept,. The former health boss has said he will report back with his initial report to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care by the middle of 2022 and its final report with its findings and recommendations by the middle of 2023. Sir Jonathan Michael said: “On my appointment as Chair, I made the commitment that I would seek the views of the families affected by Fuller’s actions on the Inquiry’s draft terms of reference, to ensure they remain at the heart of this investigation.
“All the families who gave consent via Kent Police to be contacted by the Inquiry, or who approached the Inquiry directly to give their consent, were contacted and invited to share their views on our draft terms of reference. I would like to extend my gratitude to families for the considered responses that we received. “Now that the terms of reference have been published, we can begin our work to collect evidence and information both from those who have been affected, and from the organisations involved. We are already in contact with many of them. “But I urge anyone else affected by, or with information about, the issues involved in our Inquiry to contact us as soon as possible – your views, experiences and knowledge could be vital to our work. “My team and I are focused on pressing ahead so that families can receive the answers they need and deserve, and changes are made to prevent a recurrence of the atrocities committed by David Fuller.”
4
NEWS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Foodbank had 16,000 pleas for help over a year Operations director, Dawn Stanford, added: “For many recipients, we helped them apply for universal credit as they had never needed to be supported before.
By Victoria Roberts THE number of people needing the help of Tunbridge Wells’ foodbank rose by 60 per cent last year, the highest ever recorded by the charity. Nourish Community Foodbank, which provides meals for families that are struggling financially in Tunbridge Wells and South Tonbridge, saw the number of people needing its service in the 2020/2021 financial year rocket to 16,238, up from 10,141 the year before, its most recent report has revealed.
Redundant
Lockdowns The organisation helps families who are referred to the foodbank from more than 100 various organisations such as Social Services or the Citizens Advice Bureau. Each referral can be for a single person or a large family and the foodbank provides enough food for three days’ worth of meals. According to Nourish’s end of year report, the charity saw referrals rise by 32 per cent last year, from 3,500 in 2019/20 to 5,710, and the organisation has blamed the pandemic for the rise in people needing its help. The foodbank provided more than 146,000 meals over the year, enough to give everybody in the borough of Tunbridge Wells a plate of food. Almost half (46 per cent) of the meals they
provided were for children under 18, and the charity has noticed a change in the types of people they help, due to the various lockdowns. “The impact of Covid-19 on our community has played a huge part in the increase of households that we have supported, and as with previous years, it saddens us that we are still seeing such a significant increase in the need for foodbank services year on year,” said Paul Haines, chair of the organisation’s trustees. “The figures show an alarming 60 per cent
DAWN STANFORD
PAUL HAINES
increase in the referral numbers of people in food crisis that the foodbank supported from within the borough of Tunbridge Wells, South Tonbridge and the surrounding areas.” He said most of those referred for help were in short-term crisis.
Domestic abuse charity seeks volunteers after Covid saw ‘exponential’ rise in cases A TUNBRIDGE WELLS domestic abuse charity is looking for new volunteers, after various Covid lockdowns have led to an ‘exponential rise’ in cases. Volunteers for DAVSS (Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Service) saw their hours increase by 70 per cent during the pandemic, the organisation has said as it starts a recruit drive to keep up the service. The charity offers helpline and face-to-face support, to both men and women who are victims of abuse, as well as pro bono legal assistance, recovery in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & Malling and Sevenoaks. But the charity, which was founded in 2011, has never been busier than over the last two years, DAVSS CEO Henu Cummins told the Times. “We knew as soon as lockdown was announced that it wouldn’t be good,” she said. “With Covid, we saw an exponential rise in demand for our services. A lot of people were in isolation with the perpetrator and it exacerbated an already tense situation. When they called us, the abuse had become frequent and intense.”
WHO MAKES A DAVSS VOLUNTEER? DAVSS’ volunteer model means victims of domestic abuse are contacting people who give their time out of a sense of personal commitment and concern, explained Ms Cummins. “No experience is necessary. We welcome anyone as long as they have an affinity for people. We will carve out a role for them. “Volunteers have a way of engaging with survivors,” she stressed. “I am always taken aback by people’s generosity and goodwill. They don‘t do it for thanks. They do it because domestic abuse is a blight on society. We can make a real difference to someone’s life.” And, in return for volunteers’ engagement and commitment, DAVSS offers extensive support.
Supported
Investments Covid-19 restrictions on meetings had also affected the charity’s ability to recruit new volunteers, she said. “Normally we are going to lots of different events throughout the year, and we would have a poster calling for volunteers at every one of those sessions, but we’ve literally been online.” Despite the pressure, DAVSS volunteers rose to the challenge, by using the homeworking potential of pandemic restrictions to offer a huge increase in time and contact with those who needed help. “Our volunteers gave 70 per cent more hours during the whole 18-month period. “And over the last nine months, our unpaid volunteers provided the cash equivalent of about £500,000 worth of service – based on average Kent earnings,” she added. The charity has made investments in digital infrastructure, phone expenses and support thanks to recent funding including a grant of
“Of the 20 per cent of people who were referred to us due to debt or benefit changes, many were hard working families where one or both adults were made redundant, on zero hours contracts or in low paid work and didn’t have the support of the furlough scheme.” She continued: “Each year, we are also truly concerned about the number of children (0-15 years) that are within our statistics: 46 per cent of the people supported by Nourish during 2020/2021 were children. Xxxxxxx xxx x x x “We don’t imagine the affluently-perceived xxxx x x x x xxxx Tunbridge Wells borough as having a poverty issue and yet a shocking 9.1 per cent of children are living in poverty,” she claimed. Dawn added that the largest increase in referrals came from domestic abuse cases, which accounted for 35 per cent of the people they saw. “Sadly the lockdown restrictions exacerbated household issues for many people,” she said. The report also showed that Nourish received 57.3 tonnes of food donations during the year, and financial donations totalled £380,013, dwarfing the income it received from grants of £147,579.
LIFELINE DAVSS volunteers in Tunbridge Wells almost £65,000 from Police and Crime Commissioner [PCC] Matthew Scott in 2020. “He’s a big supporter,” Ms Cummins said. Now she is calling for a new round of volunteers, but stressed that even though the charity was responding to increased need, it was not trying to grow too fast. “This is not a rapid scale-up for us. Every year, we recruit 20 new volunteers. “Some of our volunteers have been with us since the very beginning, which is a testament to how rewarding it is. And, on the whole, our volunteers only leave if they have a change of circumstances.”
HENU CUMMINS
“We help the volunteers to volunteer. It is important we are flexible when looking for volunteers. “We make sure they have a manager, a mentor and a supervisor, and a monthly meeting. Everyone is well supported. “Some of our volunteers do have personal experience of domestic abuse. For anyone who volunteers, we say they should have stopped accessing help two years ago, so as not to re-traumatise and re-victimise them in the process. “That is a minimum of two years,” she added. “It is on a case -by-case basis. We have a rigorous vetting process. “We have an eight-week accredited training programme and about six months of shadowing on the job. They have a mentor and a buddy – sometimes the same person, sometimes separate people, for example when they want to share ideas, want support, or want someone to vent to,” continued Ms Cummins. But the community and location also play their part in supporting volunteers, she added. “I have worked across lots of different local authorities in my career, but these three local authorities [Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge & Malling and Sevenoaks] really pay attention to the voluntary sector,” she said.
Festival Theatre at HEVER CASTLE The
business
awards
2022
heverfestival.co.uk
07379 488477
‘Why go to London in the summer when you can go to the Festival Theatre at beautiful Hever Castle?’
6
NEWS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Loophole means ‘monstrosity’ that’s been refused planning is set to stay for two years By Victoria Roberts SOUTHBOROUGH residents living next to a 20 ft tall temporary structure without planning permission face at least another six-month wait before it can be ordered to be torn down. The structure, which was refused planning permission last year, could now end up staying up just as long as if it been granted permission in the first place due to a loophole. As the Times reported last year, residents of Bedford Road in Southborough were shocked to wake up last May to a large scaffolded structure, covered with a corrugated roof and plastic sheeting at the sides.
‘TEMPORARY’ The structure erected by Ability Plumbing in Southborough
Plumbing Ten months on and the structure is still blighting their lives, despite Ability Heating and Plumbing in London Road being told by town planners to take it down. After neighbours complained about the structure last year, which they have compared to an ‘aircraft hanger’, the plumbing firm applied for retrospective planning permission for a ‘part covered storage for business’ in July. The application was rejected by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) in September and the company was told they could appeal within six months. A legal quirk means that the structure can stay in place until an appeal is heard by the government’s Planning Inspectorate. But the latest Planning Inspectorate timescales show that appeals can take an average of 32 weeks to be decided for written appeal, or over a year – 72 weeks – if there is a hearing. This could mean the Bedford Road neighbours could end up enduring the ‘monstrosity’ for
Tonbridge pleads for cut in housing targets TONBRIDGE & Malling Borough Council (TMBC) has made a plea to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to reduce the authority’s housing targets. TMBC is the second neighbouring authority to Tunbridge Wells to make such a call after Wealden District Council also asked Michael Gove to cut the number of houses the area had been asked to build. Both authorities have had their local plans rejected due to not having planned for enough new homes, as did Sevenoaks. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, which has had to plan for a garden village in Tudeley in the parish of Capel despite stiff local opposition to adhere to the government targets, is currently having its local plan reviewed by the government’s Planning Inspectorate. But the leader of the neighbouring council in Tonbridge, Cllr Matt Boughton, wrote to Mr Gove last week, asking for lower targets.
Failure more than two years – the length of time on the original planning application was also two years.
Founded “It’s still there, I’m afraid,” one resident told the Times last week, adding that there was also a lot of noise and disruption from the motionsensor installed in the temporary structure. “Lights are coming on and off all night. Cats trigger them, and foxes. It’s just a horrendous monstrosity,” she said. “Who on earth in their right mind would put something like that up and think he wouldn’t upset anybody?” Owner of Ability Heating and Plumbing Daniel Moon told the Times that an appeal application
has now been sent to the Planning Inspector. He said: “The application was for a temporary period of two years. As I said before, we have outgrown the property and are looking for a larger industrial unit.” In the meantime, he explained, the structure had allowed the business to ‘work at a safe distance while benefiting from the outside air lowering the risk of Covid spread.’ “If we find a new premises the structure will come down anyway,” he said. Asked by the Times whether the structure would come down after the two-year period even if there is no planning decision, Mr Moon said: “It’s most likely, however it’s dependent on whether or not we move premises.”
In a statement, he said the Council will have to build 839 homes per year across Tonbridge and Malling for the next 18 years. He added: “There is a window of opportunity for the Government to reassess the level of housing demanded in Tonbridge and Malling, and in light of the Levelling Up White Paper that is exactly what I have asked the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, The Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, to do. “I have today written to him and explained that we have changed our Local Plan timetable to allow his Department to reduce Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s housing targets. “We need a target that is consistent with the infrastructure constraints and environmental concerns we share.”
COME and watch 40 karts + 10 school karts hurtle down the hill and help raise money for three amazing local charities EVENT PARTNERS
CHARITY PARTNERS
SATURDAY 25TH JUNE DUNORLAN PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
HOSTED BY GER SHRA ROSEMARY WIFT! & TOM S
FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY
EARLY BIRD TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ALL THE EVENT UPDATES ON SOCIAL @TWSOAPBOXRACE
FOOD & DRINK
LIVE MUSIC
TWSoapboxRace.com
EARLY BIRD TICKETS: ADULTS £10, CONCESSION £7.50, CHILD £5, FAMILY £26.50 + BOOKING FEES. NO TICKETS ON THE GATE
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Tunbridge Wells lags behind in new company formations
MAPPED New formations in Kent for last year
By Victoria Roberts A THOUSAND new businesses were formed in Tunbridge Wells last year, but the borough is only eighth when it comes to entrepreneurship in Kent, according to a new study. Despite 1,102 new companies having been founded in the West Kent town in 2021 it ranked below Medway, Maidstone, Dartford, Canterbury, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Malling, Thanet and Gravesham for new formations. This was despite the county seeing a record
year for new businesses, with 16,625 new companies – compared to just 14,027 Kent businesses dissolved during 2021.
Founded As a result, said Inform Direct, there was a total of 126,550 businesses registered in Kent at the end of 2021, up 3.1 per cent compared to 2020. In Tunbridge Wells the Culverden ward saw the most activity, with 227 businesses dissolved, and 154 businesses founded, for a
net loss of 73 companies. The Pantiles and St Mark’s ward was more evenly balanced, with 110 dissolutions, compared to 116 foundations. The biggest net gainer was the Park ward representing the town centre, with an increase of 40 companies – 94 incorporated compared to only 54 dissolved. UK-wide there was an increase of 3.5 per cent in overall company numbers, which saw a total of 5,005,147 companies in 2021, compared to 4,837,426 at the end of 2020, said Inform Direct. Although the UK saw 771,617 new businesses formed in 2021, compared to 780,760 in 2020, the number of dissolutions also hit a record high of 606,912 during 2021. Reasons for this might be that some new enterprises, set up early in the pandemic, were no longer operating as people returned to full-time employment, or that businesses which were thriving before Covid-19 had suffered as behavioural and spending patterns changed, explained the company. However, Inform Direct operations director John Korchak said: “The overall picture for the UK as a whole is also an optimistic one with the total number of companies now exceeding five million for the very first time.” He added: “It is excellent news to see so many new businesses being started in Kent, a trend which has propelled the county to a new record number of resident companies. “Kent boasts an active economy, demonstrated by this latest increase in the number of businesses based in the county. Entrepreneurs are clearly motivated to invest in new businesses which meet current and emerging demands for goods or services.”
Local News
BUSINESS
7
Law firm recruits a new family specialist EXPERIENCE of religious and overseas legal cases was behind the recent recruitment of family law specialist Nick Gova by Cripps Pemberton Greenish, the law firm said this week. Previously head of Harrison Clark Rickerbys’ London family division, Mr Gova’s international experience included particular emphasis on Shari’a law and Islamic divorce, having fostered strong relationships with the Islamic Shari’a Council, said the firm.
Delighted Alex Davies, partner and head of Cripps’ family team, said: “We are delighted that Nick will be joining the team. His experience in dealing with sensitive family matters, including overseas and religious marriages, places him uniquely within the market.” The law firm, based in Tunbridge Wells and London, has a strong family law practice, and was recently acknowledged one of the UK’s top family law firms by private wealth website, EPrivateClient. The new managing associate, Mr Gova, said his new team had a ‘strong national reputation for dealing with high-net-worth individuals and complex matters’. In another international transaction this week, Cripps Pemberton Greenish also advised on the sale of Kent-based Credence Background Screening Ltd, to Canadian private equitybacked Certn Holdings Inc. Credence’s clients are spread throughout Europe, the Middle East, the US, Asia and Australia, in industries ranging from financial services, industrial, business services, property management and education to IT. The Cripps team was led by Salim Somjee and included Beth Barns-Graham, Tom Newlyn, Claire Durkin, Patrick Glencross and Phil Bilney.
8
BUSINESS
Local News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Times Business Awards in collaboration with:
Judges face biggest challenge as finalists are ‘over the moon’ to have made shortlist THE head judge of this year’s Times Business Awards has said the challenge to pick a winner for each category had ‘just got harder’. Last week, the Times announced the finalists for the 2022 award ceremony set to take place at Salomons Estate on March 24 where the winners will be announced by none other than TV host Eamonn Holmes. Those applications that have been shortlisted have now been sent to the
judging panel who will decide the overall winners. But head judge, and Chief Executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Jo James OBE, (pictured right) said the quality of applications for this year’s awards has made picking a winner even harder.
‘The quality of entrants are of a very high standard’
She said: “Despite the challenges businesses have had to face over the past two years, the quality of entrants for this year’s awards are of a very high standard.
”
I’ve had support from Host My Office for over 8 years now. Always responsive, professional and easy to work with. Highly recommended. ELIZABETH J
Entrepreneurial
“All applicants have clearly displayed an innovative and entrepreneurial approach, which has given them the resilience needed not only to survive through the pandemic but to thrive and grow. “It is always difficult to select one business over another in terms excellent but this year that challenge has just got harder, although we have to select just one winner, to accomplish the achievements laid out in the applications, they are all successful and winning businesses.” Around thirty businesses have been shortlisted this year in the ten categories,
and many of them have taken to social media to announce they have made the cut. Here is what some of them have said:
YOUR LOCAL IT EXPERTS
Your trusted partner for IT Services and Support. • CYBER SECURIT Y
• HOSTED SERVICES
• IT MAINTENANCE
• C LO U D B A C K U P
• 24/7 IT SUPPORT
• DISASTER RECOVERY
Call or email to book a free consultation
01892 267 200 | hello@hostmyoffice.co.uk www.hostmyoffice.co.uk
HMO_ToTW advert_HMD_Feb22.indd 1
26/01/2022 09:06
INCLUDING
See Yourself at Claremont
Super Saturday Interactive workshops , exciting learning experiences
& more...
Open House Week Monday 14 - Saturday 19 March
Senior School & Sixth Form, Bodiam TN32 5UJ Nursery & Prep School, St Leonards TN37 7PN To register for the Open House Week or book a tour, visit the events page claremontschool.co.uk/events
264x340 TOTW OD SENIOR 0122.indd 1
01580 830396 . admissions@claremontschool.co.uk
07/01/2022 14:40
10
NEWS
Community News
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Ramp and lifts make Eridge Station accessible to disabled By Victoria Roberts
GOING UP Mp Nus Ghani [right] with rail minister Wendy Morton and Wealden Leader Bob Standley
ERIDGE Station between Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough has been made step-free, as part of a nationwide scheme to make public transport more inclusive. Thanks to the government’s Access for All fund, the 1868 station – which also serves steam and diesel trains on the Spa Valley Railway – was fitted with a lift, ramp, and other improvements, at a cost of £1.9million. Wealden MP Nusrat Ghani secured the funding for Eridge and Crowborough stations, and opened in Eridge in mid-February, accompanied by rail minister Wendy Morton MP, Wealden District Council Leader Bob Standley and various other senior railway figures.
Shopping centre used for education projects KENT adult education provider Community Learning & Skills has secured a dedicated weekly slot at Royal Victoria Place’s Pop In: Pop Up unit, for its English, Maths and life skills classes. The weekly sessions, part of Kent County Council’s (KCC) adult education service, are aimed at those with learning difficulties and disabilities, and are run by a team of five Learning Support Assistants. The assistants develop individual work plans for all their students, and even bring in wheelchairadapted desks for their sessions. Life skills covered include using a supermarket self-service machine or asking for help in a real-world situation.
Support
Contractors “Train travel is a key form of transport for Wealden residents, and I am delighted to have secured this multi-million-pound funding to ensure that Eridge station is fully step-free, accessible to all Wealden commuters and fit for the future,” said Ms Ghani. “Thank you to all the contractors and volunteers involved in delivering this project for Eridge. It is fantastic that Wealden train stations are benefiting from this major investment programme, and I look forward to seeing similar works completed at Crowborough station later this year.” Access for All was launched in 2006 to address issues faced by disabled passengers and passengers facing mobility restraints, such as heavy luggage or pushchairs, when using
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
railway stations in Great Britain. An earlier grant saw Paddock Wood station fitted with two lifts to a new footbridge. The project follows a series of projects to
improve the station, including a new £1.8m footbridge, £500,000 canopy and platform refurbishments, and other heritage improvements.
Can hand or wrist surgery be performed under local anaesthetic? Historically for more major hand and wrist surgery patients would have a general anaesthetic, but over the last few years, anaesthetists have become increasingly skilled at doing regional blocks. Mr James Nicholl, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital explains: “For many years a number of hand operations have been done under local anaesthetic, where the surgeon injects the local anaesthetic into the area being operated on to numb it. Carpal tunnel and trigger finger releases and most surgery on the fingers is done this way. This involves injecting long acting local anaesthetic around the nerves in the top of the arm under ultrasound guidance, so that the whole arm goes numb for a few hours. This allows the surgeon to perform the surgery without the patient feeling anything, the patient can remain awake avoiding a general anaesthetic. This has the advantages of patients not feeling groggy or sick for a while, which can occur after a general anaesthetic. They can eat and drink immediately after their operation, can leave the hospital almost straight after their surgery and the block provides very
good post-operative pain relief for several hours. We did a small survey of patients who had had their surgery under an awake regional block recently, and of 21 patients we asked, 100% were satisfied with the experience although one would have liked some sedation during the procedure. The mean time to needing postoperative analgesia was 12 hours, and none of the patients needed strong opiate analgesics. Most patients are a bit apprehensive beforehand which is understandable, but once the procedure starts they are usually completely happy, and if they are feeling a bit anxious the anaesthetist can give some sedation. Patients can’t see what I’m doing, but if anyone wants to look they can. This is most often the case when I am doing keyhole surgery on the wrist, where I am working from images on a screen which the patient can also watch if they are interested.” If you have a problem with your hand or wrist which you are putting off having treated because of concerns about having a general anaesthetic, then it’s usually possible to have the surgery done under an awake regional block.
For further information about Mr James Nicholl please visit : nuffieldhealth.com/consultants/mr-james-nicholl
“We really appreciate the support of Royal Victoria Place’s Pop In: Pop Up unit so we can help those based in and around Tunbridge Wells who have learning difficulties and disabilities,” said Hannah Clark, Everyday English and Maths Tutor at CLS. The Pop In: Pop Up unit has also become home to a temporary youth club run by KCC, helping the local authority to reach out to local young people whose health, well-being and selfesteem had been affected by conditions during the pandemic. “Supporting local organisations and charities is so important to us and we’re really pleased to be able to offer Pop In: Pop Up to the CLS’s students and the Kent County Council’s youth provision on a regularly basis,” said RVP centre manager Nicky Blanchard. “Whatever the occasion, be it for an educational class, meeting new people, or a hosting children’s birthday party, our Pop In: Pop Up unit is here to help independent businesses fly high and give back to our community.”
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Community News
NEWS
11
Temporary closure of library Snowboarder James jets off to Beijing as it readies for Amelia move By Sarah Carter TUNBRIDGE Wells Library is to close temporarily from March 14, in the final stage of its plan to return to Monson Road. Since the end of 2019, the library has been based at Royal Victoria Place in the centre of town, where it was able to offer disabled access, bookable internet and children’s storytime sessions. Meanwhile, the town museum’s contents were placed in specialist storage, while local history collections were sent out to other libraries, and births and deaths were recorded at the Mansion House. However, the library will reopen in The Amelia Scott building on Thursday, April 28, re-joining the museum, art gallery, Kent Adult Education, tourist information, and registration of births and deaths.
Mike Hill, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “We have reached an important moment in the life of this project. The next milestone will be the opening of the Amelia itself which will be a moment to celebrate and a tremendous achievement. “I thank all our customers for their support and look forward to the opening of the Amelia, which will be an exciting day for Tunbridge Wells and Kent.” For news of the launch of an exciting new literary festival in town see page 24. SHELF LIFE The new shelves were being readied for the library’s stock
Pioneering
MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH AT
Join us at STEAK for a roast dinner on 27th March 2022,
MUMS EAT FREE!*
17-19 Chapel Place, TN1 1YQ www.steaktunbridgewells.co.uk 01892 552592 *Terms & conditions apply, when dining with another full paying adult. Only main-course free, one per table.
PHOTOGRAPH TWBC
Borrowers Bookworms in need of a fix during the six and a half week closure will be able to borrow books at other local libraries, with Showfields Library and Southborough Library being the closest. The library reassured borrowers that nothing borrowed from Tunbridge Wells Library in the run-up to the closure would be due back until The Amelia Scott’s opening. The Amelia Scott is an over £20million project of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in partnership with Kent County Council, the National Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England. It is expected to attract nearly 500,000 visits each year and 18,000 learners on the site, and be a showcase for learning, culture and the arts.
HE cracked his collarbone in three places after his Paralympic debut four years ago, and had another serious shoulder injury just before Christmas, but James Barnes-Miller bagged three medals at last month’s World Championships, and is now heading for the Paralympics in fine form. Tunbridge Wells-born James, who suffers from upper limb disabilities, was crowned Crystal Globe champion last season. He now joins the small 25-athlete Paralympics GB squad heading for Beijing for the Games, which start this Friday (March 4). Four years ago in the PyeongChang Winter Paralympics, he finished tenth in the banked slalom event, but it is the high-octane, head-tohead nature of snowboard cross – in which he placed seventh – that he considers his strongest suit.
“I feel in way better stead this time,” said the 32-year-old, one of over 1,000 athletes who are able to train full-time, with access to the world’s best coaches and pioneering technology, science and medical support, thanks to National Lottery funding. British athletes have won over 1,000 medals since the advent of National Lottery funding for elite sport in 1997. “I know what I’m going into. The Paralympic Games are a big show, there’s way more press and way more interest. “I took that all in the first time [in PyeongChang]. I went there and had the whole experience. “But now I can just go in knowing what to expect and just focusing on the racing. “The last Games [was about enjoying it]. This time, I really want to get on the podium in both of my events. “That’s really where I want to be - I’m going
ON THE SLOPES James Barnes-Miller
into every race now, not expecting, but hoping I can get on the podium.” James now hopes his tale can inspire the next generation of talent on the biggest stage of all. “It does take a lot, especially when you have a big fall or injury, to get back up and go again.
Inspires “You have to have something about you. Getting knocked down and having to get back up when you get knocked down properly takes a bit. “I don’t feel like a role model. I just go out there and try my best and hope that inspires people who want to go out and have a go on a snowboard.” National Lottery players, have raised more than £30million each week for good causes, including grassroots and elite sport. You can discover the positive impact playing the National Lottery has at lotterygoodcauses. org.uk and get involved by using the hashtag: #TNLAthletes
12
NEWS
War on Ukraine
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
‘Turn back the tanks’ PM tells Putin following ‘barbaric’ civilian attacks THE only way out of the ‘morass’ in Ukraine is for Vladimir Putin to turn his tanks around and send his troops home, Boris Johnson has said. The Prime Minister sent a direct message to the Russian leader in a speech in Warsaw, Poland, where he insisted tough sanctions against the Kremlin were not meant to hit the Russian people. Speaking at the British Embassy, Mr Johnson said that if Mr Putin was allowed to win in his invasion of Ukraine, he would ‘overthrow the post-Cold War order and destroy the vision of a Europe whole and free’.
unnecessary war, a war of choice that should end as soon as possible. “In the face of this gathering tragedy, I say to Vladimir Putin and his regime there is only one way out of this morass. And that is to stop the tanks, to turn back the tanks on their way to Kyiv, turn them round and take the path to peace.”
Stressed
Dangers “The outcome will be a world where aggression is triumph, where might is right, and extreme violence pays off, and no nation would be safe,” the Prime Minister said. He underlined the UK’s support for Ukraine and praised the bravery of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “When I think of the dangers and the pressures, the physical dangers that he must be facing, I marvel at his coolness under fire, his bravery, his invincible good humour. “I think he is mobilising the world against the horror of what is happening.” Ukraine has accused Russia of war crimes during the invasion over the bombardment of civilian areas in the second city of Kharkiv.
VISIT The PM in Warsaw on Tuesday
Mr Johnson pointed the finger at Mr Putin’s regime for what he earlier called the ‘barbaric and indiscriminate’ violence against Ukrainian citizens. He said evidence of Mr Putin’s attacks on civilians could be used in a future trial at the International Criminal Court. He said: “I must emphasise that we are not
motivated by any hostility towards Russia or the Russians. Quite the reverse. “All our hearts ache for the Russian soldiers sent to die in this futile venture, we all grieve with their parents.” He continued: “We must emphasise every day that it is Putin’s regime which is exacting from its own people an unacceptable cost for an
Mr Johnson was visiting Poland and Estonia to help show the UK’s support for its eastern NATO allies, where he also ruled out British forces fighting in Ukraine. He said: “I think for any NATO member to get involved actively in conflict with Russia is a huge step which is not being contemplated by any member,” Mr Johnson stressed during a press conference against the backdrop of armoured vehicles, at the Tapa military base in Estonia. “It’s very, very important to understand NATO is a defensive alliance. “This is a time when miscalculation and misunderstanding is all too possible and it’s therefore crucial that we get that message over. “When it comes to a no-fly zone in the skies above Ukraine we have to accept the reality that that involves shooting down Russian planes … that’s a very, very big step, it’s simply not on the agenda of any NATO country.”
Ominous Russian convoy World’s diplomats walk out 40 miles long heads to Kyiv on Russia during UN speech MOSCOW’S isolation on the international stage was portrayed by a mass walkout from the UN Human Rights Council during a speech from Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov. Dozens of diplomats, including those from Britain, the US and European Union, filed out of the meeting in Geneva on Tuesday when a video message from Vladimir Putin’s ally played.
Lunacy
CONVOY The armoured trucks and tanks outside Kyiv THE West fears Vladimir Putin will resort to ‘barbaric tactics’ as his forces close in on Ukraine’s capital. A Russian military convoy around 40 miles long is north of Kyiv and there are fears that the city will face a barrage of rockets and shells which could inflict devastating civilian casualties. Ukraine has already accused Russia of war crimes during the invasion over the bombardment of civilian areas in the second city Kharkiv. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab, a former Foreign Office lawyer, said it must be clear ‘both to Putin but also to commanders in Moscow and on the ground in Ukraine that they will be held accountable for any violations of the laws of war’. He told Sky News: “Those that engage in war crimes will be held to account.” The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan, said he plans to open an investigation ‘as rapidly as possible’ into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine.
Western officials fear that the slow progress of the Russian invasion will lead Mr Putin and his commanders to adopt more brutal and indiscriminate tactics to achieve the Kremlin’s goals.
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said Mr Lavrov’s statement was “full of disinformation” and did not deserve the attention of other members following the Ukrainian invasion. “Russia is isolated and should be ashamed to sit in the UN chamber,” she said. Sergiy Kyslytsya, Ukraine’s permanent representative, said he would rather listen to Russia at an international tribunal for war crimes. “Enough of exposure to the deranged lunacy of war criminals,” he said. The diplomatic snub was in stark contrast to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s speech
to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, which was met by a standing ovation. Ms Truss was understood not to have been present during the walk-out, rather it was Rita French, the UK’s human rights ambassador to the UN, who took part. Later, the Foreign Secretary delivered a speech to the meeting, in which she squarely blamed the Russian president for the deaths of both Russians and Ukrainians. “Putin is responsible for civilian casualties and over 500,000 people fleeing with the numbers still rising fast. The blood is on Putin’s hands, not just of innocent Ukrainians but the men he has sent to die,” she said. Ms Truss said allies would use their “collective heft” to deliver “severe economic costs through these sanctions as ordinary Russians are finding queues at their local banks and rising interest rates”. “These consequences will only increase in breadth and severity as the conflict goes on. We’re working to squeeze the Putin regime harder and harder by steadily tightening the vice,” she said.
Increased The latest intelligence from the Ministry of Defence said the advance on Kyiv had made little progress over the past 24 hours, probably due to logistical problems. But there had been increased use of artillery north of the capital. The MoD also said that Russia had been forced to shift to more night operations due to the failure to gain air superiority. Satellite images from the Maxar company showed the extent of the Russian forces massing around Kyiv, with a column of armoured vehicles, tanks, artillery and support vehicles stretching 40 miles. That force was 17 miles from the capital on Monday.
SOLIDARITY Envoys of 40 nations stage walkout in protest over invasion
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
10 NEWS Community FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Pump prices reach record levels
News
timeslo FORNews EVEN MORENEWS NEWS VISIT: 13 National
T b
By Ta
A NE open was As Groo
Wit cons those voted As coun store
AVERAGE fuel prices have reached the highest level on record following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, figures show. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said the average price of a litre of petrol at UK forecourts on Monday was 149.22p. That is up from 147.77p a week earlier. A litre of diesel rose from 151.95p to 153.36p over the same period.
Wholesale Oil prices have calmed after reaching an eightyear high last week due to concerns over the reliability of supplies after Russian troops entered Ukraine. This affected wholesale prices paid by fuel retailers. Separate figures from data firm Experian Catalist
show average fuel prices were 151.16p per litre for petrol on Monday, down from 151.25p on Sunday. Diesel rose from 154.72p to 154.75p. RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “A rise of 1.5p in the average cost of a litre of petrol over the space of just seven days serves to highlight what a torrid time drivers are having at the pumps at the moment. “This is on top of the 2p increase they had already suffered during the first three weeks of February. “Drivers will be wondering if prices will ever stop rising, but the conflict in Ukraine is only likely to make matters worse. “Diesel hitting a new all-time will also put yet more pressure on businesses who depend on the fuel and will likely lead to higher prices for consumers as they inevitably pass on their increasing costs.”
The Queen ‘better now’ Charles reveals as Her Majesty attends virtual meeting THE Prince of Wales has revealed the Queen is ‘a lot better now’ following her bout of Covid as she carried out virtual events meeting diplomats. Charles’ comment came during a visit to Essex to formally present Southend with the Letters Patent granting it city status following the death of MP Sir David Amess. Earlier the Queen was photographed hosting virtual audiences with ambassadors for the first time since her Covid diagnosis.
Engagements The head of state’s recovery seemed to be progressing as she appeared via videolink from her Windsor Castle home to speak to dignitaries at Buckingham Palace after postponing a number of similar engagements last week. The monarch tested positive for the virus on February 20 and Buckingham Palace said at the time she was experiencing “mild cold-like symptoms”. But during their visit to the UK’s newest city, the prince and his wife went on a long walkabout on the seafront and Janice Jacom, 64, an admin worker from a local golf course, asked about the Queen’s health. She said: “I asked the prince about his mother and he said ‘she’s a lot better now – it was very mild’. It was a bit worrying as the Queen is getting on a bit, but I think she’s absolutely wonderful.” On Tuesday the Queen received His Excellency Mr Carles Jordana Madero, who presented the Letters of Recall of his predecessor and his own Letters of Credence as ambassador from the Principality of Andorra to the Court of St James’s.
He was joined by his wife Soraia Maria Valls Pinilla. She also received His Excellency Mr Kedella Younous Hamidi, who presented his Letters of Credence as ambassador from the Republic of Chad to the Court of St James’s. During the two audiences the Queen wore a green dress with a large brooch and her trademark pearls. It comes after a diplomatic reception the monarch was due to host at Windsor Castle on Wednesday was also postponed.
14
NEWS
Education
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
EDUCATION Times
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Food tech students hooked on new educational fish promotion project Year 10 GCSE Food and Nutrition students at Beacon Academy participate in an educational first courtesy of the Fish In Schools Hero (FISH) programme. The Times finds out more... STUDENTS at Beacon Academy have been involved in a groundbreaking project as part their food tech GCSE. In a national first, GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition students at the secondary school in Crowborough were the recipients of a special delivery of wild Alaska pink salmon to use in their classrooms, in a bid to improve their fish cookery skills. Beacon Academy was selected for the delivery as part of the Fish in Schools Hero (FISH) programme devised by The Food Teachers Centre, in partnership with the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. Together, they will deliver 20,000 fillets of wild Alaska salmon to schools for cookery students to prepare up and down the country. The programme aims to ensure that every child gets a chance to prepare, cook and eat fish before they leave school. It teaches students about sustainability and nutrition as well as developing delicious dishes with the Alaska salmon in their practical classes.
CATCH OF THE DAY Beacon Academy pupils with Chef Andy Wiles
Only £895 for a fully fitted electric door.
APPROVED
Gotta get a Garolla.
Independent model and hobby Independent model and hobby shop in Crowborough model With a huge range of Independent stock from Games Starand hobby shop inWorkshop, Crowborough Wars Legion, Marvel Crisis Protocol, andin Infinity, along with shop Crowborough With a huge range of stock from Games Workshop, Star
NOW ONLY
£895
WAS £1,354 INC VAT
WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR: FREE EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING TWO REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR
Garolla garage doors are strong and solidly built. They’re made to measure in our own UK factories. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically taking up only 8 inches inside your garage. Our expert installers will fit your new door and take away the old one so there’s no mess. Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely Free.
Offer valid for openings up to 2.6m wide & inc: 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override.
a whole host of boards games and everything you need to With a huge range Crisis of stock from Games Workshop, Starwith Legion, Protocol, and Infinity, along build, paint and Wars play, we really Marvel are your one stop shop for Wars Legion, Marvel Crisis Protocol, and Infinity,you along withto a whole host of boards games and everything need everything tabletop hobby related. a whole host of play, boards everything you need build, paint and wegames really and are your one stop shopto for build, paint and play, we really are your one stop shop for everything tabletop hobby related. www.ashdowngaming.co.uk GOTTA GET A GAROLLA everything tabletop hobby related. CALL US TODAY ON
01892 640 283 MOBILE
07537 149 128 www.garolla.co.uk
www.ashdowngaming.co.uk www.ashdowngaming.co.uk
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Chef Andrew Wiles, Head Chef and owner of The Five Bells in Chailey, near Lewes, visited Beacon Academy to showcase the use of the salmon to the students. He completed a live demonstration, which the students attentively observed before tackling the complex dish and flavours themselves. He also provided some of the ingredients and a choice of plates; encouraging the students to develop and enhance their dishes, plating techniques and presentation skills.
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Education
NEWS
15
species available from Alaska;www. alaskaseafooduniversity.co.uk Rebecca Wilson, Trade Director for Alaska Seafood in Northern Europe commented, “We are delighted to partner with the Food Teachers Centre for their Fish In Schools Hero programme. We have been working with Fish In Schools Hero programme for over a year to get the Alaska salmon into students’ hands and we are pleased that students will finally get the opportunity to cook with it.”
PLATE EXPECTATIONS A delicous salmon creation
Opportunity Teacher of Food Technology at Beacon Academy, Mr James Hooper said, ‘We are thrilled that we have been selected to receive the wild salmon from Alaska. It means that our students MASTERCHEF A student with her dish
“ The programme aims to ensure that every child gets a chance to prepare, cook and eat fish before they leave school” can not only learn about wild fisheries and the different tastes, textures and usages, but also cook with the fish themselves.’ To support teachers, Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute and Food Teachers Centre have also developed sample lesson plans, a training workshop and video recipes by chef and former Masterchef winner, Dhruv Baker. Both teachers and students are completing the online Alaska seafood training course which is a deep dive into the Alaskan fishing industry and the different
EXPRESS DELIVERY Staff receive supplies of fresh fish
Discover our surprising range of courses from wedding themed Floristry and Cake Decorating to Furniture Restoration, Gardening and Woodwork.
New thinking Try something different Do the unexpected...
Get creative and learn something new Try beauty workshops on Brow and Lash or Mini Facial. Learn about illustration and writing with our Creating Children’s Picture Books course. Even more choice Languages, Arts, Craft, Business & IT, English, Maths and more are available to book. Learn at a time and a place to suit you Join us on our online, real time courses, or at one of the KAE centres across Kent. Explore the unexpected and book your course today.
kentadulteducation.co.uk 03000 41 22 22 Kent Adult Education is part of Community Learning and Skills
Bringing learning to life
16
NEWS
Weekly Comment
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Mike Tapp Labour candidate for St John’s
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Mike Tapp is a former soldier who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, a National Crime Officer, and civil servant - now working for a Labour MP. He is the Labour candidate for St John’s Ward for the Council elections in May.
Rise in violent and antisocial crime in Tunbridge Wells needs to be stopped Before I start my article, it is timely to say that Tunbridge Wells Labour stands united with the people of Ukraine. They are fighting to protect their country and democratic and peaceful way of life against an unwarranted attack by the armies of Vladimir Putin. We salute their bravery. Talking to residents across town, we are hearing loud and clear that people are concerned about the unacceptable violent crime and anti-social behaviour in Tunbridge Wells. Recently, we have seen a murder in Sherwood, attempted murder in the town centre during the day whilst residents shopped, and terrifying crimes against women, including incidents of ‘date rape’ injections, indecent exposures and, at the end of last year, an attack. These crimes are serious, meaning people feel less safe in our town. I run the Tunbridge Wells Crime Watch group on Facebook, which helps keep people here aware of crime incidents to help them stay safe. There is a widely held perception in this group that violent crime and anti-social behaviour are on the rise,
instances reluctant to walk our streets when it is dark. The Police reports monthly on the top three crime types in each area. In the seven wards that make up Royal Tunbridge Wells, there were 160 reported crimes in the top three types in January 2022. That is five crimes a day of violence, harassment, anti-social behaviour, burglary or theft. Between the Military and the Ministry of Defence, I spent a few years with the National Crime Agency, where I saw a clear link between drug use, violent crime and anti-social behaviour.
Allowed and they are not wrong - Tunbridge Wells’ highest crime rate is ‘violent crime’. This leads to fear and reluctance of many people to go out in some areas at certain times, particularly women and girls who are in many
Action on drugs and crime is long overdue as the Government has allowed serious problems to grow over the last few years. Class A drug use has increased by 27% since 2010, drug-related deaths were the highest since records began last year, and the number of children referred as suspected victims of county lines has increased by more
A TRIBUTE TO SIR ELTON JOHN SALOMONS ESTATE FRIDAY 15th APRIL 2022 (7pm - MIDNIGHT)
£47.50PP INCLUDES: ARRIVAL DRINK, 2 COURSE MEAL & TEA/COFFEE TICKETS: WWW.SALOMONS-ESTATE.COM/WHATS-ON
✮✮✮✮✮ 'SUPERB, FLAWLESS, LEAVES THE CROWD WANTING MORE!’
than 30% since 2019. Meanwhile, more than £100m has been cut from treatment services, and cuts to policing budgets have meant that specialist drug enforcement teams have taken a backseat, allowing gangs to grow. The approach of this Conservative Government means that they are neither tough on crime nor on the causes of crime – both of which are essential in combating this complex problem. As well as action on drug crime, Labour believes that we need more visible Police presence on our streets in Tunbridge Wells. Kent Police, in their Mission and Priorities Statement, say, “We will retain neighbourhood policing as the bedrock of policing in Kent”. But the evidence to support that is lacking. We need more Police Officers and Police Community Support Officers on the streets, more officers visiting schools, community groups, better CCTV coverage, more working street lighting and more prosecutions. If that requires more funding, then it is money well spent.
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Letters
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
NEWS
17
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
OPERA HOUSE Wetherspoons
I write to you with concern regarding the increasing anti-social and violent behaviour Tunbridge Wells seems to be experiencing. Not withstanding the recent High Street incident and of course the stabbing, but the general anti-social behaviour which seems to be ever present. Where are the police and what are the council doing about this? I heard about a CCTV operator saying that Tunbridge wells basically does not have enough police, but this can’t just be a policing issue. We moved here from London like many people to get away from this type of behaviour, but it seems to be as bad or even worse. The location of the Wetherspoons in the centre of town, is far from ideal for a town which seems to pride itself on being for families and a respectable place to live. Throughout the day one has to dodge the numerous people standing outside smoking, Clegg has Osborne to thank for hypocrisy Calverley needs to know (Hypocrite of the week, Times, February 23) that the first person Sir Nick Clegg should have thanked after his multimillion-dollar promotion at Meta was former Tory chancellor George Osborne, as recently revealed by The Times (national newspaper). In 2018, the year after both the former chancellor and ex-deputy prime minister left Westminster, Osborne was wooed for a senior role at Facebook. He was even flown out to Silicon Valley to discuss terms, according to a newspaper source. However, the former chancellor turned the position down. While it is understood the role was different to the job Clegg ended up taking, it seems unlikely that Facebook, now renamed Meta, would have wanted two coalition-era British cabinet ministers at its top table, meaning that Osborne’s decision helped clear Clegg’s path to a new and very lucrative career in America. At the time Clegg had been dealt a series of devastating political setbacks. Britain’s vote in 2016 to leave the European Union was a bitter blow to his vision for closer integration with the bloc. A former member of the European Parliament, a polyglot and a Europhile, he had lost his Commons seat of Sheffield Hallam, which he once held with a majority of more than 15,000. The Liberal Democrats had sunk from holding 62 seats when he took over in 2007 to just 12 when he left parliament. This followed the defeat in 2011 of the
making that part of town just unpleasant to be near. I feel sorry for the businesses in its vicinity. Of course, one is in danger of sounding like a complete nimby snob and perhaps there are elements of this, but I love this town and desperately want a nice place to bring up my young family and avoid the anti-social issues we all find so upsetting. It really doesn’t seem like rocket science to get some of this right. Don’t have cheap drinking dens in the centre of town, more security in venues which have repeated anti-social clientele and more police presence. Clearly there is a cost to the police, which we all need to bear, but we can make it easier by making establishments like Wetherspoons smarten their act up, or force them to close. James Ross (letter abridged) Tunbridge Wells disastrous and ill-timed Alternative Vote (AV) referendum, the reversal of the student fees waiver under the Tory-Lib Dem coalition government, and the publication of a book called ‘How to Defeat Brexit’, advocating joining a larger political party than the Lib Dems, and which suggested that older Brexit voters would eventually expire, ultimately leading the UK to
We’re not bowled over Reading your article in the Times, it is somewhat misleading: the picture is not Bayham but the Grove in Norfolk Road Tunbridge Wells as are the players and we feel people looking at the article would believe that it shows Bayham’s Green Philip Boddy Chairman of the Grove Bowling Club Editor’s note: it seems the gremlins have been at our image archive again and the bowling image was wrongly attributed. Please accept our apologies. A quarter of a century of toddling Last year’s annual Barnardo’s Big Toddle saw thousands of under-fives take part in short sponsored ‘toddles’ to raise money for vulnerable children supported by the UK’s largest children’s charity. An amazing £198,000 was raised across the UK. This year marks the 25th year of the Barnardo’s Big Toddle. And we are once again calling for children, their families and nurseries to join in the fun this summer as Big Toddle Week returns with a safari theme from 20th to 26th June. Parents, carers and nurseries can hold their own Big Toddles to help raise money for Barnardo’s. It could be a community Toddle, one for family and friends or one at your local nursery, primary school or childminding group. Register now to receive a Toddle Together fundraising pack containing all the necessary information and lots of safari-themed ideas – such as free medals, stickers and sponsorship forms. Please go to barnardos.org.uk/bigtoddle for more information. I would like to say a huge thank you. Janice Gilroy Barnardo’s Fundraising Manager
Calverley
Observations on life and more important things
WARNING If you’re a female visiting a London theatre you might see more than you bargained for. Calverley was mortified to discover gender neutral loos are now part of the entertainment. Blushes all round on a
visit to the Playhouse Theatre (think Cabaret and Redmayne) where women were forced to walk past open urinals with a line-up of busy men. What’s wrong with loos marked ‘men’ and ‘women’ and letting individuals decide? Mr and Mrs Calverley know which loos they prefer. (As do the VAST majority of people.) They also know which theatre will not be seeing them again.
TALKING WOKE there was another rude awakening when Himself met friends in Brighton for pre-supper cocktails. Ordering his drink went thus: “I’d like a Black Russian please.” Barperson (note gender neutral): “You can’t use that word.” Calverley: “Sorry, you mean ‘Russian’?” Barperson: “No the other word.” Calverley: “Oh you mean b…..“. Barperson: “Don’t say it… if you want a cocktail you have to order a ‘Dark Russian’.” Mad. The world has gone quite mad.
UKRAINE. Tales of heartache and heroism are emerging. One that will stay with Calverley was about 13 border guards on an island. An approaching vessel told them: “This is a Russian warship… surrender to avoid bloodshed…. otherwise you will be bombed.” Back came the reply: “Russian warship, go f*** yourself.” All 13 young soldiers were reported to have been killed.
PEPPY SAYS CARTOON BY PEPPY: (Follow her on Twitter @Peppyscott)
I blame pub chain for violence
inevitably rejoin the EU. At a book launch event in London, he could not see the connection between the influence of the 2008 financial crash on the 2016 Brexit referendum result. I subsequently took his sage advice, joining the Labour party after more than 40 years in the SDP and Lib Dems. As for Clegg himself, he can check out of the ‘Meta’ Hotel California any time he likes, but he can never leave… Dr Alan Bullion Southborough Town Councillor (Labour)
WFH CONTINUED… earlier this month Caverley demanded that those who elected to Work From Home should have salary cuts (they save thousands in travel costs) and that the money should be given to NHS staff who are underpaid and have to report for work to treat sick people. The idea is catching on. An equally esteemed columnist on the Daily Mail has now thrown their weight behind the campaign (yes it is) pointing out NHS staff never ‘had the option of a WFH slackers’ charter’. Quite! FINAL THOUGHT. The number of kids who suddenly become invisible is on the increase. Calverley believes this after seeing a 4x4 pull up at a supermarket and park in a bay clearly reserved for parents with youngsters aboard. Not a single child or baby seat in sight. What a strange phenomenon... Chin Chin, dear reader
We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words
PLOT OR NOT?
If you think your land or property has development potential. Why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.
We are always on the lookout for land and property with development potential.
Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings for redevelopment, buildings for conversion or replacement, houses for improvement, large sites on the edge of town, barn conversions, large gardens in residential areas and major regeneration projects.
For more information contact Stephen Donnelly on: 07739 514350 01892 579937
sjd-projects.com steve@sjd-projects.com
Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Life&Times
ARTS • BOOKS • GOING OUT • FOOD • HOMES • INTERIORS • TRAVEL • MOTORS and MORE...
Arts - Page 20
Food - Page 25
Antiques - Page 34
BOOKED
David Baddiel and Jo Brand to headline new literary festival P20
Arts
arts
20
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
‘There’s something so magical about watching a film that was created nearly a century ago...’ Trinity Theatre welcomes a celluloid classic: Buster Keaton’s 1926 silent movie The General – accompanied by a pianist this evening (March 2). Here the venue’s passionate cinema programmer Felica de Angeli tells the Times why the event will make for such a magical night at the movies….
T
ago; it’s a reminder of not only how far onight (March 2) we take a the cinema experience has come but journey into cinema also highlights that cinema has history as we screen always been just as spellbinding, Buster Keaton’s 1926 as at the heart of any good film is Silent Classic, The a great story, beautifully told. General with captivating freestyle With the addition of a live live piano accompaniment from performed soundtrack before your Stephen Horne, an artist who FELICIA DE ANGELI very eyes, you find yourself consistently raises the bar. beautifully suspended between the For any cinema lover, whether you past and present simultaneously. enjoy a star-studded action-packed Keaton’s The General is often lauded as one of adventure or a slice of realism from a foreign the funniest films of all time whilst others country, seeing a silent film on the big screen celebrate its ingenuity as a Civil war parody and with live accompaniment is an absolute must. its skill for sustaining a sense of fun-filled There is something so magical about sitting in wonder throughout. an audience watching a film that was created Part comedy, part historical, part chase movie, and intended for audiences nearly a century
Arts
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
so much to offer: It provides us with not only a glimpse into cinema history but social history too. It’s all too easy to forget how what we see on the big screen is, in its purest essence, a reaction to the world around us and so to transport yourself back in time through a piece of silent cinema, you quickly get a sense of what may have been buzzing around the heads of your counterpart audience many (many) moons ago.
and inspired by true events, the film follows a hapless Southern Railroad engineer during the American Civil War as he is forced to rescue not only the woman, he loves but also his cherished engine, The General, from enemy forces. Keaton was well known for his athleticism, precision and comic timing - and according to a crtic at The Guardian he ‘more or less invented the action movie’ in this film which seeps ‘epic ambition.’ From visual gags, slapstick and stunts, The General demonstrates all of Keaton’s skills at once. Indeed he is now often celebrated as the cinephiles’ favourite Silent Era Clown even over the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd.
‘For any cinema lover seeing a silent film on the big screen with live accompaniment is an absolute must’
Ambition But this evening would not be complete without the pure mastery of Stephen Horne at the keys, providing breath-taking live accompaniment. Stephen has long been internationally considered one of the leading silent film accompanists. A house pianist at London’s BFI Southbank for thirty years, he has played at all the major UK venues and recorded music for many DVD releases of silent films. Although principally a pianist, he often incorporates other instruments into his performances, sometimes simultaneously. He regularly performs internationally and in recent years his accompaniments have met with acclaim at film festivals in Pordenone, Bologna, San Francisco, Telluride, Paris, Cannes, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Shanghai, Seoul, Istanbul, Berlin, and Vienna. I was fortunate enough to attend a ‘Silent Film Night’ accompanied by Stephen Horne when I was barely a teenager and I have still never been able to shake the memory of quite how magical the event was. Since then, I have always wanted to share the experience with as many people as I can. Silent and early cinema are often overlooked – especially as we grow ever expectant of brilliant special effects and big blockbuster adventures – but silent cinema has
21
MUSICIAN STEPHEN HORNE
The Big Dog Day out returns to Bewl Water! The countdown has officially commenced for the Bewl Water ‘Big Dog Day Out’, which will take place on Saturday 26th March, the event promises visitors a day out for the whole family, and of course your furry friends! There is plenty of things to see and do with your pooches. FREE ENTRY 10am - 4pm Dog Show - see a different category each hour. Running at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Dog agility. Face painting for the little ones! Children’s treasure trails
www.bewlwater.co.uk info@bewlwater.co.uk Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent, TN3 8JH
There is nothing quite like having a live soundtrack performed in front of you to immerse you into the cinema experience. Stephen Horne’s skill is undeniable – and so it should with the highly acclaimed recognition he has achieved in the Silent Film circuit – as he makes everything look so elegantly easy. For me, the best bit about attending a film Stephen is accompanying, is when he can have fun and is able to provide added laughter or nuance to moments happening on screen – whether it is by providing a theme tune for special characters or jumping between instruments to highlight the change in narrative or ambience of a scene. The choice to show Buster Keaton’s The General at Trinity came from discussions with Stephen as it seemed churlish not to dip into his wealth of knowledge, and in addition, there’s something lovely about creating an event where everyone involved is as excited about their part as the next! It truly will be a memorable evening and whether you’re a silent film fanatic or just looking for a good night out, why not join us for a unique experience this evening from 7.30pm? Tickets cost from £15 and are available from the box office or via Trinity’s website: trinitytheatre.net
Going out
22
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
MIKADO Wandering Minstrels at Wetherspoons
going OUT
The Times’ Victoria Roberts provides a round-up of local events and activities coming up over the next week or so…
T
HEATRE folks are used to quick-scene changes, but transforming the Wetherspoons Opera House for one night was a tight turnaround. Once time was called at the bar on Saturday, February 19, the Merry Opera Company had less than 12 hours to transform the iconic Tunbridge Wells building back into an opera house. The original stage and seating were preserved by leaseholders Wetherspoons, after they took over the Grade II listed building in 1996. Yet, with its two performances of Gilbert and Sullivan’s popular operetta ‘The Mikado’ sold out, the Merry Opera Company could not disappoint the music-lovers. “We have to work fast,” said lighting designer Mark Waites. “As soon as the bar closes, the set will arrive, and the lights have to be programmed.
We have to work through the night.” The production team could only work around the peak meal hours. However, the challenge is part of the repertoire for both Wetherspoons and the Merry Opera Company, since the building reverts to its original use twice a year, and the Kent-based opera company have been performing here for over ten years. “We absolutely love coming here,” said manager Matthew Quirk. “This year feels particularly special because we are finally back after the closure of theatres during the pandemic.” The performance comes just after the pub chain has finished a £700,000 restoration of the Opera House, including repairing the magnificent domed ceiling on the listed building. The pub chain bought the historic site in 1996.
on stage and screen
going live
family fun
CINEMA this week takes place on and off the screen, with Trinity Theatre’s presentation of Buster Keaton in ‘The General’ (1926), accompanied by silent film pianist Stephen Horne. A byword for physical comedy in the silent film years, Keaton plays a Southern Railroad engineer during the American Civil War, rescuing both the woman he loves and his cherished engine, The General, from enemy forces. Channing Tatum fans can see their hero bonding with man’s best friend, ‘Dog’ (12A), with multiple daily showings at the Odeon. Showings of ‘Sing 2’ (U) continue, as well as ‘Belfast’, ‘Death on the Nile’, ‘Marry Me’ and ‘Uncharted’ – all rated 12A. In a screen-stage crossover, The E.M. Forster Theatre (Tonbridge) presents National Film Theatre Live’s ‘Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage’. In this staging of the Philip Pullman novel, theatregoers are transported back in alternative history, to 12 years before the ‘His Dark Materials trilogy’. Thursday, March 3, 7pm. Meanwhile, Trinity Theatre presents ‘The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)’…. really and truly abridged, to 37 minutes of classic comic-tragic Shakespearean themes: mistaken identities, power games, love and hatred. Starting on Tuesday, March 8 at 8pm, and running until Saturday, March 12. If you prefer more comedy and less tragedy, Trinity Theatre has the Tunbridge Wells Comedy Night for you, featuring Irish stand-up Keith Farnan and Sarah Keyworth, whose Edinburgh show ‘Dark Horse’, is on Amazon’s Prime TV. Age 14 and older. SARAH KEYWORTH Saturday, March 5 at 8pm.
WITH one of the best live music scenes in the South East, here is a round-up of some of the best bands and acts performing this week. The Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra (RTWSO) sounds the fanfare before International Women’s Day next Tuesday (March 8), with a woman behind the podium, as well as women behind the composer’s pen and behind the instruments. Under RTWSO’s first female conductor, Alice Farnham, the ensemble will perform music from Lili Boulanger, Grace Williams and our own local composer Sylvia Villa, whose ‘Sortilège’ was short-listed by the BBC New Orchestra of Wales in their New Composers competition in 2019. Also on the programme are Dukas’ ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’, Rimsky-Korsakov’s ‘Capriccio Espagnol’ and Schumann’s Cello Concerto in A minor, featuring returning soloist Laura van der Heijden. At the Assembly Hall on Sunday, March 6 at 3pm. Wadhurst Commemoration Hall is hosting the Kate Daniels Jazz Quintet, playing a musical feast of jazz and blues. Friday, March 4 at 8pm. Tickets £11 from ticketsource.co.uk/ wadhurstculture or £20 on the door. G2 Definitive Genesis, a tribute to the Peter Gabriel and ‘Seconds Out’ (1975-78) years of the classic group, will play at Trinity Theatre on Friday, March 4 at 8pm. The Hive, Cranbrook, has Hot Friday Night Jazz on Friday, March 4, featuring Café Society. On at 7:45 pm-9:45pm. The Forum has a lineup of five for Friday, headlined by Tunbridge Wells indie rock group Suncharmer, whose film influences include spaghetti westerns and Tarantino movies. Other acts are four-piece indie rock band The Rambling Club, smooth soloist Pastil, Higgs & The Bosons (calling themselves “makers of very English noise”) and emerging band The Act. Friday, March 4, 7pm. Age 16 and older, or accompanied. The clubbing night at the Forum this week is ‘Boogie Nights’, for 18+ only. Saturday, March 5, 8pm. On Sunday, the theme is Cardiff, with glam rockers Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard, and long-form sonic voyager Alice Low. Sunday, March 6 at 7:30pm. Age 16 and older, or accompanied.
WHETHER your family is young or old, big or small, there’s plenty to do both indoors and outdoors over the coming week, along with some active ideas. What’s that bump upstairs? Possibly the Knole Park’s attic tours, taking place on Friday and Saturday mornings at 11:30-12:15, introducing visitors to graffiti, lost 17th century letters, witchmarks… and a curiously sloped floor. The content is aimed at adults, although children are welcome at parents’ discretion. The Friday sessions might particularly PENSHURST PLACE suit older home-schooled children broadening their Knol-edge of the last 600 years of history. Tickets £7.50 from Knole Park National Trust website. Parking on-site must also be booked, unless arriving on foot from Sevenoaks town centre. A four-day run of ‘Gangsta Granny’ at the Assembly Hall is a fun and heart-warming story to bring families together, with Ben discovering that his Granny is not as boring as he thought… Wednesday to Friday (March 2-4) at 6:30pm , Saturday, March 5 at 7pm. Matinées on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Take in the spring flowers at Rudyard Kipling’s East Sussex estate, Bateman’s, where the Wild Garden sees a succession of flowers blooming throughout spring, from early snowdrops and narcissi to blue scilla and snake’s head fritillaries under blossom trees. The National Trust property also offers children’s treasure trails indoors and out, and the natural play area features swings, see-saw and climbing frames. Or why not visit the working water mill? Free to NT members. The seasons are a-changing, with Penshurst Place advertising its Dazzling Daffodils in the Lime Walk and Orchard, from March 5. Weekends only until March 27. GANGSTA GRANNY Grounds open 10am-5pm. Tickets from penshurstplace.com
Books
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
23
Ideas to help young bookworms make the most of World Book Day Parents and children across Tunbridge Wells are set to celebrate World Book Day tomorrow [March 3] and Times bibliophile Hannah Kirsop has some great ideas to encourage young bookworms to read more and non-readers to develop a love of literature WORLD Book Day is now celebrated in over 100 countries and has become a popular event in the schools’ calendars across Tunbridge Wells. Founded 25 years ago by UNESCO, World Book Day (WBD) now sees over fifteen million children across the UK receive a £1 book token through school, which they can use to buy one of the twelve exclusive books issued for WBD, or put the £1 toward a full-price book. The tokens can only be used in brick-andmortar shops, not online and are valid from February 18 to March 28. Waterstones in Calverley Road had its special display in place over a week before the big day, with all the £1 editions turned face-out, ready to tempt the smallest customers.
Bookseller Jo Stocker told the Times: “At Waterstones, we absolutely love World Book Day. We often have local schools coming to visit us to celebrate.
Gift “World Book Day is an incredible opportunity for all children to get a book, but it’s so valuable to the children. If, for whatever reason, they do not own a book or have never been into a bookshop, it’s just wonderful to be able to give the gift of reading to all children.” Is your child dressing up for World Book Day? Send us your pictures to newsdesk@ timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk
Five great kids’ reads for World Book Day
In honour of the 25th World Book Day on 3rd March 2022 – this week’s reviews feature some brilliant books, which my family and I have enjoyed over the years. I hope they inspire reading in children of every age...
EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! WORLD Book Day’s UK organisers are also offering an additional £1 digital book token, which can be printed off and taken to a bookshop. Sign up for this freebie at worldbookday.com/digital-book-token. There are also free audiobooks available until Thursday, March 31, at worldbookday.com/ world-of-stories/ Meanwhile, Royal Victoria Place has bought new stocks of books for its Little Monsters Reading Book Swop Shop in the Lower Mall. Visitors are invited to exchange their own unwanted books for new titles in the unit, or simply take home a book of their choosing.
Nicky Blanchard, centre manager at Royal Victoria Place, said: “From stimulating their imagination to improving their literacy skills, this World Book Day we’re pleased to emphasise the importance of reading to families in our local area and share our new range of books, thanks to our retailer WH Smith.” Located in the Customer Service unit on the Lower Mall, the Little Monsters Reading Book Swop Shop offers a calm and quiet space for little ones to lose themselves in a book, with chairs provided to sit down with a book and a grown-up.
PICTURE BOOK
AGES 5-8 ISH
Marmaduke the Very Different Dragon by Rachel Valentine
Freddie Mole, Lion Tamer by Alexander McCall Smith
(published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books, priced £6.99) A lovely story about a non-flying dragon with big ears who doesn’t feel like he belongs until he meets Princess Meg who loves crazy dance moves and wearing trainers. Together they find out that there are friends in the world for everyone and they can be found in the most unlikely places. With gorgeous complementary illustrations by Ed Eaves, this is a wonderful book with great vocab and brilliant messaging about friendships and the positives of being yourself whatever that may look like… my nephews ask to listen to it again, again and again.
(published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books, priced £6.99) With his mum away working on cruise ships and with not much money at home, Freddie wants to help his family but doesn’t know how until the day his dad fixes a washing machine at the circus and Freddie gets a job there! It’s not quite what he expected though as soon he needs to learn to fly on the trapeze and even tame the lions…but will Freddie be able to conquer his fears for his family? With entertaining illustrations scattered through the book to boost the more reluctant reader, this is a great book in which McCall Smith’s natural writing style offers lovely messages about the rewards of working hard and the importance of family.
AGE 12+
AGES 8-12 ISH
The Lion Above the Door by Onjali Q. Rauf (published by Orion Children’s Books, priced £7.99) Bullied at school and often told to ‘go home’, neither Leo nor his best friend Sangeeta have great hopes about the school trip to Rochester Cathedral until Leo spots ‘his’ name alongside a golden lion on a war memorial. This kindles Leo’s determination to find out exactly who ‘the first’ Leo Kai Lim was and what he did for Britain in WW2. With brilliant – truly real-life – characters and a heart-warming plot, this book effortlessly cuts through many of the complications that the politics and history of WW2 bring and simplifies it so beautifully through the eyes of a child. A Christmas stocking book that my son raved about – strongly recommended.
TEENS & ADULTS
When the World Was Ours by Liz Kessler Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China (published by Simon & Schuster Children’s UK, priced £7.99) by Jung Chang A devastating yet brilliantly written book about the impact of the second world war on three Viennese children, two of whom are Jews. The book begins with a celebration of Leo’s 9th birthday but the three friends are soon jettisoned down very different paths as Kessler shows very different sides of the same war with the chapters effectively written from the perspectives of each of the children, one of which was inspired by a story from her own family history. Not a book for the fainthearted, the writing doesn’t shy away from dealing with many of the harsh realities of the period so it is an emotional read. However, in a crowded field of books on this topic, this one stands head and shoulders above the pack.
(published by HarperCollins priced £9.99) A brutal and comprehensive history of China in the 20th century, encompassing all of its modern culture, history and politics, is brought to life through the sweeping real-life stories of three generations of women in Jung Chang’s family. It isn’t an easy read and is filled with suffering, grief, brutality and inhumanity – Jung Chang pulls no punches in her writing which ensured that the book was banned in the People’s Republic of China – but, whilst sobering, it isn’t depressing and there are also strong themes of strength, bravery and love. It’s a long read at 700 pages but completely worth the investment and it won’t take long until you’re hooked by this fascinating, immersive memoir. Still resonates with me almost 30 years after first reading!
For more book reviews see our what to read on holiday guide in Travel page 36.
24
Events
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
events
David Baddiel and Jo Brand among stars set to headline Tunbridge Wells’ new literary festival A FESTIVAL for readers and writers is being launched in Tunbridge Wells this spring to celebrate the opening of The Amelia Scott, the new culture centre in the heart of the town. And as Richard Williams finds out it is set to be headlined by some big celebrity names
T
aking place over four days from April 29 to May 2, the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival is being launched by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and stars David Baddiel and Jo Brand, both well known as presenters, comedians and writers will be headlining the programme for this exciting new festival. David Baddiel is the author of four novels as well as six books for children which have sold over 1 million copies.
FUNNYMAN David Baddiel
Creative His most recent work is the Sunday Times bestselling non-fiction polemic Jews Don't Count – ‘a book for people on the right side of history. People fighting the good fight against homophobia, disablism, transphobia and, particularly, racism. People, possibly, like you.’ Jo Brand, is no stranger to Tunbridge Wells having attended Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School in her teens. Her 2019 book Born Lippy, How to Do Female is a darkly funny guide to life as a
JO BRAND The former TWGGS schoolgirl is to return to Tunbridge Wells
“A literary festival is the perfect event for Royal Tunbridge Wells” woman. It’s all the things Jo wishes she'd known, all the things she's learnt, and all the things she hopes for the future. The creative space and the new libraries in The Amelia Scott make it the perfect place for this new festival to establish its roots. Set for an opening date in the last week of April, the £21 million project is a joint
venture of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC), Kent County Council, with National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England funding. The Amelia Scott building and the Amelia cultural centre within, are both named after the early 20th-century campaigner for women’s suffrage who was one of the first two women to be elected to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC) in 1919. Once it begins welcoming people inside, the Council hopes the combined art gallery, museum, adult education centre and visitor hub is expected to bring around 450,000
visitors a year. As well as established names the Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival will showcase new talent and local writers across the four-day extravaganza of words, workshops, readings, panel discussions, poetry and much more. Readers, new writers, established writers and illustrators will be coming together to celebrate the joy, imagination and inspiration that comes from the widest variety of literary media, from graphic novels to poetry and podcasts, fact and fiction, popular and niche. Crime, sport history, personal stories will all feature and there will be events for younger readers too. The event’s organisers promise there will be something for everyone!
“The creative space and the new libraries in The Amelia Scott make it the perfect place for this new festival to establish its roots” A literary festival is the perfect event for Royal Tunbridge Wells which has long been a source of literary inspiration with names such as WM Thackeray, Siegfried Sassoon, EM Forster, Arthur Conan Doyle, AA Milne and Jane Austen having links to the town or the wider area. The festival’s programme of events will be taking place at The Amelia Scott as well as at the Assembly Hall Theatre, Trinity Theatre, The Forum and The Tunbridge Wells Hotel. The Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival is being organised in partnership with bookseller Waterstones. The Tunbridge Wells Hotel is sponsoring the event which is also being supported by Royal Tunbridge Wells Together. The Times of Tunbridge Wells is acting as headline media partner for the festival.
Food & Drink
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
25
Take a trip to Thailand at dinner
food & drink
Prudence Wade adds homemade kimchi to spice up this classic Thai dish... “THE SECRET to making the perfect pad thai comes from prepping all the ingredients beforehand and ensuring you balance the hot and sour elements of the dish well,” says Mark Diacono, author of Ferment. “Why not add a dollop of kimchi to liven the dish up even more?” Pad thai recipe Ingredients: (Serves 4) For the kimchi (fills 1 litre jar and takes minimum five days to ferment): 90g fine sea salt 2 Chinese cabbages, about 1kg, shredded 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 5cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped 2tbsp Korean chilli flakes 2tsp fish sauce 2 carrots, grated 5 spring onions, thinly sliced For the pad thai: 200g flat rice noodles (dried weight), or use 600g ready-cooked flat rice noodles 1tbsp tamarind paste 3tbsp fish sauce 1tsp sugar 1–2tsp chilli flakes (or use fresh chilli) 2tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for the noodles 300g diced chicken or tofu or prawns 1 onion, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 eggs, lightly beaten 40g cashews or peanuts, roughly chopped Bunch of spring onions, thinly sliced
150g kimchi 200g beansprouts To serve: Small bunch of mint, leaves roughly chopped Small bunch of basil (ideally Thai basil, but not essential), leaves roughly chopped More fish sauce, to taste More chilli flakes or chilli sauce, to taste 1 lime, cut into wedges Method: 1. For the kimchi: In a large bowl, rub the salt thoroughly through the cabbage, and allow it to soften and form a little brine for an hour or so. In a small cup, make a paste by combining the garlic, ginger, chilli flakes and fish sauce. Using a colander, drain the cabbage so that you retain some of the brine in a bowl. Combine the carrots and spring onions with the cabbage, and stir through the hot fishy sauce. Add a little brine if you need to loosen the mix. Spoon the kimchi into a jar, pressing down well to exclude air bubbles. Use a freezer bag part-filled with water to keep the vegetables submerged and seal the jar. Allow the kimchi to ferment for five days at room temperature. The kimchi should have a pleasingly sour taste. Leave to ferment in the fridge for a few days (or weeks) if you prefer it sourer. 2. For the pad thai: If using dried noodles, cook them according to the packet instructions, then drain and toss in a few drops of oil so they don’t glue together. 3. Make the sauce by combining the tamarind, fish sauce and sugar in a small
pan; bring to the boil to dissolve the sugar. Add the chilli flakes or fresh chilli to taste and put to one side. 4. In a large pan, ideally a wok, heat the vegetable oil over a high heat. Add the chicken (or prawns/tofu) and the onion and stir-fry for eight minutes, until coloured and just about cooked through. Add the garlic and beaten egg to the pan for the final two minutes of stir-frying time. 5. Add the noodles and stir-fry for a further three minutes, making sure that the chicken is cooked through. Add half the nuts, the spring onions, kimchi and beansprouts and fry for a minute to
combine. 6. Stir through the sauce and cook for a minute longer before removing from the heat. 7. To serve, sprinkle with the remaining nuts and all the herbs. Add a splash more fish sauce/chilli if you fancy and serve with the lime wedges. Add a dash of kimchi. Ferment by Mark Diacono is published by Quadrille, priced £12.99. Photography by Mark Diacono. Available March 3.
join us this
YOU R S PECIALIST DRI N KS S HOP
Mothers Day Make her day at The Blue Anchor!
Join us in your local award winning country pub based on the outskirts of Crowborough.
Sample our mouth watering menu whilst sipping on a cocktail, a refreshing G&T or perhaps a bottle of bubbly! Reservations recommended.
SHOP INSTORE OR ONLINE C L I C K & CO L L EC T | FR EE D EL IVERY *
EARN FUGSPOINTS G E T R E WA R D S & D I S CO U N T S
fugglesbottleshop.co.uk 1 6 C AMDEN ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS *£50 minimum spend, qualifying postcodes only
Get in touch for more information 01892 319299 info@blueanchorcrowborough.co.uk Beacon Road, Crowborough, TN6 1BB
Wine
wine
26
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Beat the winter blues with these reds….
Raising a glass of winter cheer, this week Times Drinks Editor James Viner beats the cool temperatures with rich, ripe, heart-warming Australian, Chilean and Portuguese red wines and a special New Zealand white made by a Master of Wine
S
pring is not far away now but the days are still fairly short and invariably chilly. So what to drink with substantial winter fare? Winter’s a season that demands reds that are big and bold and have the wherewithal to manage nourishing, meaty stovetop stews, oven-baked casseroles and roasted red meats. Grab a glass and comfort yourself with these stellar, full-bodied, winter warmers. The three reds are ideal for umamidrenched dishes, slow braises, robust stews and fireside sipping. Meanwhile, a judiciously oaked, top-tier Kiwi Chardonnay – the chameleon supreme white grape – is just the ticket for roasted white meats, seafood and a creamy sweetcorn, chicken and bacon chowder. Cheers to these cold comforts... 1) Juicy red from Port country 2017 Vila Real Rabelo, Douro, Portugal Co-op, £6 (13.5%) Stylish, floral table red wines from the Douro Valley of north-eastern Portugal, the
1
2
planet’s first demarcated and controlled wine region (1756), high up the eponymous waterway — and the home of Port — make wonderful matches for long-braised beef, lamb and pork dishes. This supple and svelte mid-week example is a well-priced blend of 40% Touriga Nacional (the most celebrated, top Port grape variety) and 30% each of Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo) and widely-planted Touriga Franca. A welcome addition to the winter table, it has masses
DID YOU KNOW? A ‘RABELO’ is a traditional, narrow, shallow-bottomed Portuguese cargo vessel historically used to transport barrels of port from the upper reaches of the Douro Valley to the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia (linked to Porto, on the other side of the river, by six bridges) where most of the port lodges are located. Currently, the boats (‘barcos’) are used as sightseeing cruises that sail down the Douro River.
3
4
of red and forest fruit richness with floral/ herbal ballast, spice and a juicy, bramble finish; venison and juniper casserole, rustic red meat stews (hello daube de boeuf), goulash and roast duck will love it. Cleverly, the cork for this bottle does not require a corkscrew to remove. It’s extremely gluggable and great value. 2) An intensely flavoured, detailed rendition of Carmenère, arguably Chile’s signature red grape 2019 Errázuriz, Max Carmenère, Aconcagua, Chile Tesco, £12 (13.5%) Requiring warm, hot sites, late-ripening Carmenère is an old Bordeaux red/black grape variety that now (finally, and latterly picked at just the right time, some 4-5 weeks after Merlot) makes deeply-coloured, rich reds in Chile. Founded in 1870 some 100km north of the capital, Viña Errazuriz is situated in the picturesque Aconcagua Valley which runs from The Andes – the region is named after the latter’s highest peak at around 7000m/23,000 ft – to the Pacific Ocean and has a Mediterranean climate. The 2019 season was dry and warm with low rainfall at the start, producing superb quality fruit. This outstanding Carmenère is vegan-approved and an absolute blinder. Its chocolatey oak, herbal, coffee bean, roasted red bell pepper, cherry and black fruit packs a delectable punch. It all runs appetisingly along the tongue; pure glossy pleasure. The relatively modest alcohol has contributed swimmingly. Simply stunning served with long-braised beef. 3) Bring me sunshine! Outstanding, super-elegant South Australian red blend with a famous Austrian wine connection… 2016 Salomon Estate Dark Pearl Cabernet SFM, Finniss River, Southern Fleurieu, Australia. Lea & Sandeman, £20.95 in a case of 12 (14.5%) This Aussie red is a magnificent, skilful,
ripe and smooth blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (90%), Cabernet Franc (5%) and Merlot (5%) that broods over a core of molten dark black and red fruits – cassis, cherry and plum – all pinned to varietal mint and herb, plus a touch of leafiness and a suggestion of earthy fungi. Matured for 18 months in French barriques (mostly used), it’s long, supple, detailed and very persistent, proving the versatility of the blend. Dangerously drinkable now. Bring on the slow-roasted lamb, venison and juniper casserole, classic roast leg of lamb with rosemary and anchovies or thyme and juniper rabbit. Downright delicious, brimming with flavour, fresh and bright with tannins and oak deftly balanced, it heartily suggests a second glass should be relished pronto. 4) A top-tier, oak-aged Chardonnay made by New Zealand’s first Master of Wine 2020 Kumeu River Estate Chardonnay, Auckland, New Zealand The Wine Society, £20 (13.5%) Don’t pour skinny white wines in the throes of winter and think they’ll pass muster with big brumal fare. Try bottles with well-judged oak, like versatile Chardonnay, instead. A satisfying, complex example from one of New Zealand’s best wine producers, this still-youthful, benchmark Chardonnay is made by Michael Brajkovich – New Zealand’s first Master of Wine (in 1989) – and has layers of apple, grapefruit, peach and nectarine, as well as toasted nuts and smoke. Tastes like a bargain fine wine to me. Bring on the roast guinea fowl/chicken, creamy sweetcorn, chicken and bacon chowder, monkfish, scallops and seafood risotto/ pasta. Bottle development will be fascinating. A Kiwi classic. Incredible quality. One to seek out and another candidate for your busy decanter. Treat yourself. Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine
Property News
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
property news
February saw largest house price rise in two decades
27
Advertisement feature
HOW DID THE PANDEMIC AFFECT THE MARKET FOR FLATS?
It is well documented that house prices surged during the pandemic, but this week Deborah Richards of Maddisons Residential discusses how the flat market has fared. Flats have for many years filled a vital role in meeting the needs of homeowners. Affordable for first time buyers, wise investments for landlords, easy living for down-sizers, a home with generous proportions in a section of a grand building, and perfect as a lock up and leave.
PROPERTY prices rose at their highest rate last month - their biggest monthly jump in two decades, according to an online estate agent. Rightmove says the asking price of property coming to market rose by 2.3 per cent last month that average rise of £7,785 to a record £348,804 is the biggest monthly jump in pounds recorded by Rightmove in more than 20 years.
Growth Prices are now 9.5 per cent higher than a year ago, the highest annual rate of growth since September 2014. Meanwhile Rightmove says there’s been an increase in potential buyers sending enquiries to agents, with the number 16 per cent higher than this time last year. New property listings are up 11 per cent compared to the same period last year, suggesting more sellers are coming to market before looking for a property to purchase, to avoid missing out on their next home.
The number of people requesting a home valuation from an estate agent was up 11 per cent in January compared to last year. And London has recorded the biggest annual jump in number of buyers sending enquiries of any region, and highest annual rate of price growth since 2016, as the end of pandemic restrictions and a return to the office fuel renewed demand in the capital. Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s director of property data, said: “The data suggests that people are by no means done with their pandemic-driven moves. Such a significant societal event means that even two years on from the start of the pandemic, people are continuing to re-consider their priorities and where they want to live. “As the final legal restrictions look to be ending soon, and more businesses are encouraging a return to the office for at least part of the week, we now have a group of movers who are looking to return closer to major cities, or at least within comfortable commuting distance of their workplaces.”
However, whilst the pandemic saw house prices soar, flat prices fell, caused by a dramatic reduction in demand. The reasons were varied. Do you all recall the hottest May on record at the start of the pandemic in 2020, when we were all told to “stay at home”? For anyone without private outside space, this was an uncomfortable time! In the cities, where there is the greatest density of flats, many tenants chose a garden and an additional room for home working over proximity to their place of work, so headed to more rural areas. And so, the yields for investors dropped. Downsizers delayed plans to move, choosing to rightly stay safe at home, and anyone who wanted a “lock up and leave” knew travel was sadly not an option. As I write this on the day that all restrictions are lifted with life settling into its new normal, so the flat market is enjoying a resurgence, with all the many benefits being understood again. Tunbridge Wells’ flat market is typified by conversions of period properties and newer purpose-built developments. In conversions, you can enjoy wonderful period features and room proportions at an affordable price point. A flat in a newly built development gives easy and convenient living, often in a fabulous central location. The pandemic was a setback for flats, so I hope that if flat-living is something that you have previously considered, you do so again and embrace all benefits that it can offer.
Knights Wood offers its final shared ownership apartments DEVELOPERS behind the Knights Wood project in Tunbridge Wells are offering the final shared ownership homes in the housing estate. Moat Homes’ is offering 13 one and two bedroom apartments. Each home has been designed to include fully fitted Sheraton kitchens with integrated appliances and has the added advantage of an allocated parking space, a 12-year premier home warranty and a generous 990-year lease. The site is close to the Knight’s Wood retail park that host both a cinema and bowling alley along with a range of restaurants.
Layouts Buying off-plan takes place at an early stage of construction, giving buyers a wider selection of apartments and layouts.
With shared ownership, buyers purchase a 35 per cent share from £78,750, with a 5 per cent deposit from £3,938. Knights Wood offers residents community living set in over 150 acres of mature protected woodland, providing woodland walks and treelined avenues away from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns.
Selection The centre of Tunbridge Wells is only ten minutes away by car and the development is close to three train stations with quick links into London, as well as being easily accessible from the A21 and M25. It is also conveniently located near a selection of schools and Tunbridge Wells hospital. Buyers interested can contact moathomes.co.uk or Knightswood@complete-moves.co.uk.
Meet the expert: Deborah Richards is the founder and Managing Partner of Maddisons Residential, a leading, award-winning independent estate agent based in Tunbridge Wells, offering expert advice on all aspects of sales and lettings, combined with excellent customer service.
www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk 18 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5TN Telephone: 01892 514100 Email: info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk
28
Health & welbeing
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
health & welbeing
Shining a spotlight on eating disorders Inspired by the work of UK charity Beat and their annual Eating Disorders Awareness Week (on until March 6) with their mission ‘to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders’, Leonora Langley, a Tunbridge Wells teacher, counsellor and author of the book, 'Let The Souls of Our Children Sing', highlights a subject that has the potential to steal childhoods, devastate early relationships and tear families apart...
O
ne in 50 people in the UK is affected by eating disorders, including bulimia, binge eating, avoidant/restrictive food intake (ARFID) and anorexia which has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. Although eating disorders can start at any age, 95 per cent of people who suffer from them are between the ages of 12 and 25. More common in females, they are not determined by sex and can affect all genders, races and ethnic groups. While eating disorder researchers and clinical experts believe that eating disorders are caused by both environmental and genetic factors, the epigenetic, where children have inherited bad eating habits from emotionallyrepressed parents, is an important consideration.
Repressed Young people who suffer from eating disorders often present with a perfectionist personality, low self-esteem, have difficulty communicating negative emotions and an inability to resolve conflict as the result of emotional pain which might have been unexpressed, repressed or suppressed. If we are to avoid eating disorders in the young, the relationships between caregivers and children need to heal so that they can learn to 'eat to live' rather than 'live to eat'. Food needs to be a source of nourishment and not a way of dealing with emotional trauma and power conflict. There can be a tendency for some parents to project their fears and insecurities onto their children when it comes to feeding them. When parents find it difficult to express love itself. They will substitute food in its place. In the absence of emotional intimacy and well-being, children tend to become complicit in this activity. The food industry is also complicit in filling the gap with chemical additives, stimulants, unnatural fats, highlyprocessed sugars and white flour products which overstimulate the parts of the brain controlling dopamine production. Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter and anti-depressant
“There can be a tendency for some parents to project their fears and insecurities onto their children when it comes to feeding them” which helps to control mood stability and well-being. In many ways, the whole of our society is set up to constantly feed 'the hungry beast within', the one that is yearning for real intimacy and connection. No wonder so many of us become addicted to something! Widely acknowledged as one of the most effective ways of setting children on the right path to healthy eating is to breast feed (if at all possible) as and when babies need it rather than making a bottle by the clock. Breast feeding not only provides essential nutrients and natural immunity, it is believed to encourage good long-term habits of only eating when hungry and eating just enough to satisfy bodily needs.
junk food, including sweet sticky foods, chocolate, chips and caffeine-laden soft drinks. These types of food can also affect sleep and cause behavioural problems. If young people were encouraged to eat three balanced meals a day - a diet rich in natural organic foods, plenty of green vegetables and fresh fruit rather than refined ingredients particularly sugar and white flour - their minds would be more alert and they would be able to deal with their emotions more effectively. Bingeing is often linked with a human being's yearning for love which is part of reverting to the oral gratification of babyhood in search of the unconditional love they never received. In the absence of the real thing, they will seek love from a bar of chocolate or a tub of ice-cream, both of which contain mood-
“Diet cannot be ignored when considering the growing problem of hyperactivity”
Sensitive
LEONORA LANGLEY
Mealtimes need to be as peaceful as possible with children encouraged to eat only what they like and not forced to eat everything on their plates. They instinctively know what they might be sensitive to, or what will make them sick and will usually avoid such foods. Diet cannot be ignored when considering the growing problem of hyperactivity. Many young people skip breakfast which can result in their blood sugar being abnormally low, which affects brain function. When they do eat, they have a tendency to consume too much
altering substances such as theobromine. This is a brain stimulant found in chocolate or casein, one of the proteins in milk which crosses the blood-brain barrier and becomes casomorphine. Like morphine and heroin, this is a highly-addictive opioid. To break the addiction to this counterfeit love source, we have to realise that it cannot love us, it never could and it never will. We have to learn to love ourselves and find the source of love within. An important consideration when looking at those susceptible to eating disordered
behaviour is the significant role that social media can play in placing undue pressure on young people to meet a certain social and cultural idea of beauty which places a high value on their body shape and weight when determining their self-worth. With less emphasis on social media and outside influences, what needs to be integral to all learning, at home and at school, is the development of internal resources that children can draw upon in times of inevitable adversity and challenge. It is only by nurturing radical self-love, self-awareness and compassion in the young that they will grow in the knowledge that self-belief and self-respect are not dependent on external validation, which is fleeting, but on developing inner validation where they accept and value their own internal experience, thoughts and feelings which can, hopefully, sustain them over a lifetime.
Wednesday 2022 WednesdayMarch April 72||2021
FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: timeslocalnews.co.uk
Health Local & welbeing News NEWS 2917
Tunbridge Wells Hospital’s miniature device has already saved 100 lives Patients with symptoms of potential bowel cancer are referred by their GP on the Lower Gastro Intestinal Cancer Pathway and may have
IN THE last six months Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) has removed almost 100 patients from the cancer pathway thanks to an innovative new pilot programme that helps check for signs of cancer. MTW is the only organisation across Kent and Medway taking part in the pilot where patients swallow a tiny camera, known as a colon capsule endoscopy, to check for signs of cancer, providing a diagnosis within hours. Since the launch of the programme in June 2021, the Trust has performed 147 colon capsule endoscopies, resulting in almost 100 patients being removed from the cancer pathway. Two patients have been referred for bowel cancer treatment and other patients have gone on to have procedures to remove pre-cancerous polyps that have been seen on images produced by the camera.
Forward-thinking Results from the pilot to date show that MTW is in the top five Trusts for number of colon capsule endoscopies carried out since the launch of the programme. The pilot will run for a period of two years with the aim of extending the service in the future to patients outside of the cancer pathway. Dr Laurence Maiden, Chief of Medicine and Emergency Care for MTW, said: “This is another example of how MTW is a forward-thinking Trust, always looking for ways to embrace new
‘We are delighted with the positive impact this pilot programme has already delivered for our patients and look forward to expanding this service beyond the cancer pathway in the future’
LITTLE HELPER MTW’s Gill Simpson [left] and Kat Fraser with the miniature camera technology to enhance patient care. “We are delighted with the positive impact this pilot programme has already delivered for our patients and look forward to expanding this service beyond the cancer pathway in the future.” Dr Henry Taylor, Chief of Cancer Services at
MTW, added: “In just six months, this new technology has already made a huge difference to patient care, helping diagnose cancer at the early stages and enable us to start treatment plans for those in need. I encourage anyone with possible cancer symptoms to visit their GP and not delay treatment.”
investigations such as the colon capsule endoscopy, which is completely painless and comes in the form of a capsule no bigger than a standard vitamin tablet. The capsules avoid the need for a traditional endoscopy, and this means that people spend a very short time in hospital, swallow a capsule and can then go about their normal day, carrying out everyday tasks such as going to work and driving. After swallowing, the camera takes on average 5-8 hours to travel through the patient’s system, taking two images per second. Clinical staff then download the information via the data recorder strapped to the patient’s waist. The high-resolution images are then analysed to detect signs of cancer and other bowel conditions.
Advertise with us... Times of Tunbridge Wells Largest circulated newspaper in the area Out every Wednesday Total weekly reach – 57,000 +
0755 784 7841 or email robin.singer@onemediauk.co.uk
Business feature special
30
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Spotlight on:
Tonbridge
As the closest large town neighbour, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells are sometimes confused, but as Victoria Roberts finds out, there is a lot more to the market town than just a similar sounding name...
T
he General Post Office changed the name of the former town of Tunbridge to Tonbridge in 1870 to avoid being confused with Tunbridge Wells, although many people still get the town locations mixed up. However, Tonbridge predates its Royal neighbour by more than five centuries. Thanks to the Normans’ decision to fortify the crossing of the River Medway, the town of Tonbridge first formed around the motte and bailey castle that still sits in the centre of the town nearly a millennium ago.
would later become Tunbridge Wells. Tonbridge’s strategic value turned commercial in the 18th century, when the Medway Navigation Company was founded, making the river navigable to Tonbridge, which imported coal and lime and exported gunpowder, hops and timber to Maidstone and the Thames. Streets such as Medway Wharf Road, Cannons Wharf and New Wharf Road still show the outlines of the working river, even though many
of these districts are now given over to leisure and residential buildings. From 1842, the railways made river shipping unprofitable, and today Tonbridge’s station remains an important junction between the South Eastern Main Line, the Hastings Line and the Redhill–Tonbridge line. The town also lies at the crossroads of the A21 road between London and Hastings, and the A26 between Maidstone and Newhaven on the south coast.
‘Today Tonbridge’s station remains an important junction between the South Eastern Main Line, the Hastings Line and the Redhill– Tonbridge line’ Over the centuries, different powers would battle over Tonbridge in wartime, and the town would be an important civic centre in peacetime. It even hosted some of the visitors going to that iron-rich spring, five miles to the south – which
FORMED The town was created after the building of Tonbridge Castle
Business feature special
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Business town
Thanks to its location on three train lines, Tonbridge is a commuter town with a twist, welcoming secondary school pupils on their way to grammars such as The Judd Grammar School, Tonbridge Grammar School and Weald of Kent Grammar School - or independents Tonbridge School and Somerhill Independent School – while outbound travellers head the other way. Michael Caston, owner of Castons furniture in Angel Lane opened his store in the town in 2019, but the family-run business has been servicing London and Kent for over 125 years and has been run by five generations of the Caston family. He says that the independent nature of many of the town’s businesses is what sets Tonbridge apart from other Kent districts. He told the Times: “My family have been selling furniture since 1895. Our store in Hythe has been open since 1995 and our Tonbridge store opened in 2019. “I wanted to have a store in Tonbridge as I have lived in the town and in surrounding villages all
of my life. Tonbridge has a great mixture of national and independent traders.
Keeping Tonbridge moving
In a drive to keep its position as a transport nexus, Tonbridge is now bidding to host the headquarters of Great British Railways, the public body established in May 2021 to regenerate Britain’s rail network. GBR will own the infrastructure, collect fare revenue, run and plan the network, and set most fares and timetables. Explaining the bid, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council leader Cllr Matt Boughton said the town had the connections and infrastructure to deliver the government’s objectives. The government will announce a shortlist in May, followed by ministerial visits and later a public vote. He added: “As a town with a great railway heritage for 180 years, Tonbridge is the ideal location for the new HQ of Great British Railways.”
ANYONE FOR GOLF? Poult Wood is a picturesque woodland golf course situated three miles north of Tonbridge and offers a choice of two interesting and challenging courses. It has a reputation for being one of the finest quality pay and play courses in the South of England, as well as providing great value memberships. The tree-lined 18 hole par 68 course is a well-balanced blend of par 3s, 4s and a par 5 and is designed to challenge the more accomplished golfer but also to give a great society experience. The 9 hole par 3 course is a high-quality course, starting and finishing in ancient woodland, with many holes giving panoramic views across the Weald of Kent. Poult Wood has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, which is extended to societies, who can choose from a menu of flexible options to suit individual needs. Full catering is available in the Clubhouse bar and restaurant
which offers comfortable, contemporary surroundings, first class service and great value for money. The Clubhouse also attracts visitors from Tonbridge who enjoy the delicious traditional Sunday lunches and specials whilst taking in wonderful vistas across the 18 Hole. Facilities also extend to a driving range, squash courts, golf shop and tuition. Our PGA Professionals both have a wealth of teaching experience and playing knowledge to assist in bringing out the best in those taking advantage of tuition.
‘Where the River Medway once carried cargo to and from the town, these days you are more likely to see dragon boats’ Cultural centre
Tonbridge’s geography and history remains central to town life today. Where the River Medway once carried cargo to and from the town, these days you are more likely to see leisure craft such as paddleboards, canoes, and even dragon boats. The Tonbridge Lions club – the oldest in the UK – organises an annual dragon boat race at the Watergate (Big Bridge) in Tonbridge High Street near the castle. The race was cancelled in September 2020, but resumed in 2021.
SPLASH Dragon boat racing on the Medway
Sorry, NO Dogs Allowed.
31
Join us for...
LAMBING WEEKEND at Hadlow College Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th March 2022
FOOD & DRINK VENDORS, ARTS & CRAFT STALLS, FUN FAIR RIDES & MUCH MORE! Pre-registration now live. Please visit hadlow.ac.uk/events for more information.
32
Business feature special
The castle has also changed its face in recent times. Although still proudly telling its history in the on-site museum, which plays host to re-enactments and heritage-themed activities, Tonbridge Castle is now equally well known for its events programme. From the new ‘Castlemas’ fair in December to the Tonbridge Music Weekend on the second weekend in July and backdrop to various other events, the historical castle is a civic and cultural heart, bringing people together.
‘The High Street plays its own part in that Kentish tradition of food and drink, through its numerous restaurants’ This year, on the fourth weekend in July, the Kent Gin Fest will bring Kentish and international gins together, too, as well as those of neighbouring counties, underlining the town’s position in one of the UK’s agricultural
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
heartlands. The town’s theatres, too, reference their roots in local culture and history. The theatre at Tonbridge School is named after old boy E.M. Forster, and is a stop on the regional touring circuit, hosting plays, cinema, comedy and more. Meanwhile amateur groups, artists and those simply interested in good company occupy the Oast Theatre’s converted building, named after one of those traditional structures which dot the Kent countryside, used for drying hops. The High Street plays its own part in that Kentish tradition of food and drink, through restaurants such as the Ivy House, Fuggles Beer Café and The Rose and Crown. They have joined many other Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks businesses in the TN Card loyalty scheme, supporting businesses and the community, and proving the value of good neighbours.
TONBRIDGE CASTLE
HEAD TO HADLOW COLLEGE FOR SOMETHING REALLY FUN ON MOTHER’S DAY Looking for some fun things to do with the family Mother’s Day weekend? Why not head to Hadlow for this year’s Lambing event. The lambing season during Spring is the time of the year when sheep give birth to lambs and Hadlow College takes advantage of the unique time to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable farming and agriculture. Thousands of new born lambs are expected to be brought into the world this Spring and what better way to be part of that magical experience than by visiting Hadlow College’s Lambing Weekend on Saturday, March 26 and Sunday, March 27 on Ashes Lane (TN11 0AL). No dogs are allowed, except guide or assistance dogs. Hadlow College’s lecturers will be in the lambing shed providing commentary during the
day and answering any questions. The fun-filled family event, which runs from 11am to 4pm on both days, offers a unique window into agricultural life and has a wide variety of activities in store for adults and children. Apart from the chance to witness the actual lambing taking place, there are also many other varied animals to see, as well as tractor trailer rides, digger challenges. You can also tuck into some of Kent’s best local produce at the different catering stalls selling hot and cold food. Tickets at the gate for adults are £10, children £5 (age 2 - 16 years/concessions) while families (two adults and up to three children/ concessions) can get in for £25. More information: hadlow.ac.uk/news-events
GREAT GOLF SOCIETY RATES AVAILABLE
Maximise your time on the course with one of our great value for money memberships! Offering unlimited access to the excellent 18 and 9 Hole courses, membership is ideal for adults† and juniors alike.
2022/23
UNLIMITED GOLF FROM JUST £54 A MONTH! 01732 364039 poultwoodgolf.co.uk 3950 PW Memebership ad 160x264.indd 1
Here are the options:
PRICE HELD AT 2021 RATE
7 Day Membership
–
£880 Annual or £77 monthly DD
5 Day Membership
–
£618 Annual or £54 monthly DD
7 Day GOLF21 Membership*
–
£342 Annual or £30 monthly DD
Junior Membership
–
£115 Annual or £11.50 monthly DD
Give the team a call to find out more. *Membership for 18 to 21 year olds - T&Cs apply. †Adult options include membership to Poult Wood Golf Club. Tonbridge & Malling Leisure Trust working in partnership with Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council
01/02/2022 10:36
Great British Furniture Brands Sale
Made in Colchester, Essex
Made in Sutton in Asheld, Nottinghamshire
WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE. ONLINE OR ANYWHERE ELSE
C ASTONS FURNITURE Since 1895
Made in Clayton, Yorkshire
Made in Melksham, Wiltshire
LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEED
64 - 68 6 High Street, Hythe CT21 5AL 01303 239239 5 Angel Walkk Shopping Centre, Tonbr o idge TN9 1TJ 01732 351872
WWW.CASTONSFURNITURE.COM
34
Antiques
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
The criminal rise in first edition prices
antiques
Joseph Trinder discusses the value of first editions - including crime fiction’s finest Her famed detective characters to include Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple would become synonymous with the genre and to date, over 30 feature films are based on her work.
Joseph Trinder
Opportunity
O
UTSOLD only by Shakespeare and The Bible, Dame Agatha Christie is the best-selling novelist of all time – best known and adored for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections with an estimated 2.5 billion sales world-wide, as well as having written the world’s longest-running play, The Mousetrap which has been enjoyed by audiences across some 27,000 performances. Gorringe’s is delighted to have been favoured with consignment of a collection of books, ephemera and furniture from Greenway House, Devon – a country home of Britain’s best-loved author. From 1938 until her death in 1976, Greenway House, with its 30-acre garden and 278-acre estate became a much-loved holiday retreat for the writer, especially during the summer months.
Opening our March 8th Fine Spring sale at Gorringe’s, lots 1-78 offer collectors from across the world the rare opportunity to acquire pieces originally owned by Dame Agatha – to include a number of her own signed and inscribed 1st edition books, even her own dictionaries and writing materials together with an extremely rare valentine. Lot number 1 in the sale is a rare 1st edition of ‘A Pocket Full of Rye’, complete with its original dustjacket, it is inscribed with a dedication, ‘with love, From Agatha’ and dated 1953 and is estimated to fetch between £800 £1,200. Such first editions are by their vary nature scarce
‘Agatha Christie wrote 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections with an estimated 2.5 billion sales world-wide’ volumes which will generate great interest in the driven community of international collectors for her work – yet to have an edition signed by the author with provenance from her own country home is a unique opportunity for buyers. Other such examples in the sale include 1st editions of ‘Dumb Wintness’, inscribed with a dedication to ‘Punkie’ – a nickname for Christie’s elder sister Madge – together with ‘A Murder Is Announced’, ‘Cards On The Table’, ‘Ordeal By Innocence’ and ‘Destination
Unknown’. These unique examples of her work carry pre-sale estimates ranging from £700 £1,500. Yet perhaps even more remarkable items from this collection include furniture, decorative items and antiques formerly owned by Dame Agatha – to think that they were once owned, used and enjoyed by the great writer is rather humbling – with many such pieces evocative of the glamorous worlds so beautifully conjured in her works.
Object Such examples include lot 46, a rather charming Victorian inkstand decorated with mother of pearl. An attractive object in its own right, it is incredible to know this was once owned by and would have likely adorned the desk of one of our greatest-loved writers – one can easily imagine such an object too adorning the setting of the worlds she created, populated by her celebrated characters. Without such provenance and history, such an object in today’s market might be bought for under £100 – it will therefore be interesting to see just how far collectors are willing to bid, to themselves own a piece once owned by the celebrated author – a wonderful example of how value is not always simply in an object, but in the history it represents. You can view the entire sale, to include this collection online today by visiting Gorringes.co.uk
A love of Art Deco just has to be shared Eric Knowles takes centre stage to wax lyrical alongside some bright young things...
H
ELLO everyone. I have to say that now, along with winter receding in our rearview mirrors, I also have something of a spring in my step for another reason. This weekend I have another opportunity to share my love of antiques with members of the public, something which I always enjoy immensely. On Friday evening and Saturday afternoon over this coming weekend, I’m going to be hosting a talk down at The Pantiles Arcade which will give me a chance to introduce you to the wonders of early/mid 20th century creativity which left a rich legacy of items which now go under the collective name of ‘Art Deco’. I’ve always nurtured a particular fancy for pieces made in the 1920s and 30s – the heyday of Rene Lalique’s glassware and Moorcroft pottery, both of which I’ll happily admit to coveting a little more than I probably ought to.
Venture However, I’ve been very pleased able to broaden my horizons when it comes to other items made during the same period since we have welcomed Jeroen Markies and David Hickmet on board my rather splendid venture in the old Corn Exchange. These two gentlemen are at the very top of the tree when it comes to the provision of Art Deco material, and I’ll be able to illuminate my talks with examples of the finest works from their curated collections which are now hosted and offered for sale
down here. Art Deco works are real treasures. They were made with an innate sense of ‘user friendliness’ as opposed to being rather staid creations, bound by enduring preconceptions of what should be considered ‘high art’. The old cliches were swept away by a new broom of vigorous almost effervescent creativity, and we find that traditional techniques such as bronze-casting and glassmaking were used to generate striking, liberated items which exemplified the optimism and joi de vivre of the 1920’s and early 30s. ROAR An art deco bronze casting
It doesn’t seem to matter whether we are looking at glassware or bronzes or wooden furniture or paintings or ceramics, if it fits the Art Deco mould, then there’s a degree of joyful release involved as if the artists, collectively, breathed an enormous sigh of relief as they were allowed to set their own standards and tread new paths, without having to follow the standards that had previously constrained ideas. Many of the bronze statues we have available here feature nude studies – coquettish, playful almost daring pieces that seem to perfectly capture the somewhat audacious nature of the ERIC KNOWLES movement as a whole. It may seem difficult to imagine how a piece of furniture can begin to encapsulate the same lust for life as any representation of a dancing girl or an unfettered wild animal, so come along on Friday and Saturday and let me explain how it all fits together. Tickets are priced at £20.00 per person, to include wines and canapes. Friday evening’s ‘performance’ begins at 7:30pm, with a repeat the following day at 4:00pm. I’d ask you to please book in advance, if you’d be so kind, via our website at scottishantiques.com/eric-knowlestunbridge-wells – I very much look forward to seeing you !consider coming along for an evening (or afternoon) of conviviality, and the opportunity to see some absolute masterpieces at first hand.
Antiques
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
35
Discovering a gem of a French business
Thanktalks you about for this. we would be looking approximate Alexander Pushkin, of Pushkin Antiques in the High Street theSoartisanship of Van Cleef & Arpels process is ultimately delicate andsite: can require for a ¼ page for 2 weeks. 300 hours of work per piece or more, which is ‘Their items often feature floristic and animalistic motives and fairy figures’
Touquet, Nice, and Monte-Carlo. The company was also the first French jeweller to open boutiques in Japan and China. As their popularity grew, Van Cleef & Arpels opened more and more salons all over the world. Nowadays they have boutiques and stores in the Middle East and South East Asia, many countries in Europe, USA and Australia. In 1925, a Van Cleef & Arpel’s bracelet with red and white roses fashioned from rubies and diamonds won the grand prize at the International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts [see: Serafin, Amy (Fall 2012). “The Family, The Jewels, The Legend”. France Magazine]. Their items often feature floristic and animalistic motives and fairy figures. The patterns have the company distinguishable from other makers
why only a few items in such style are manufactured per year. Though such important makers as Cartier and Chaumet also have received a patent for a similar technique, neither of them has used it so extensively.
Please use the main photo Could we include the KCC logo also
Luxury
In terms of the actual advert wording, could we have something like this:
Alexander Pushkin
I
N THIS week’s article I would like to talk about perhaps the lesser-known, yet remarkable jewellers Van Cleef & Arpels, an iconic French craftsmen, specialising in luxury jewellery, exquisite watch and perfume. The house was founded in Paris by Alfred Van Cleef and his father-in-law Salomon Arpels and has always been considered one of the most mysterious and charming companies.
The first boutique opened by Van Cleef & Arpels at 22 Place Vendôme, across from the Hôtel Ritz The first boutique opened by Van Cleef & Arpels at 22 Place Vendôme, across from the Hôtel Ritz. Later on, salons were opened in fancy holiday resorts, such as Deauville, Vichy, Le
Former Sou Good oppor redevelopme
Nowadays Van Cleef & Arpels remains one of world’s most celebrated luxury items company. Their iconic jewellery, watches and perfume are considered ultimately stylish and exquisite. Owing a piece by Van Cleef & Arpels is considered by many to be truly an honour. You can often find pieces by this remarkable craftsman in our collection of jewellery or objects of vertu. pushkinantiques.com
For further i www.forme
PROPERTY WITH REDEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL balthazar.bu Former Southborough Library, Yew Tree Lane, 483271 Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0BA james.stave and are now world recognized. The House’s been worn On behalf of products Kent have County Council 991350 by global style icons from Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor to Duchess of Windsor, Farah Pahlavi and Queen Nazli of Egypt.
Offers are sought for a property comprising Invisible The company is also world recognized for its Serti Mysterieux, or “Mystery Setting”, a proprietary gem setting technique employing a setting where the prongs are invisible. Each stone is faceted onto gold rails less than twotenths of a millimetre thick. The whole
PROPERTY WITH REDEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Former Southborough Library, Yew Tree Lane, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0BA On behalf of Kent County Council
Offers are sought for a property comprising approximately 2,160 sq ft on a circa 0.25 acre site:
PROPERTY WITH REDEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL
Former Southborough Library Redevelopment opportunity, subject to all necessary consents
Former Southborough Library, Yew Tree Lane, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0BA Property comprising approximately 2,160 sq ft on a circa 0.25 acre site
For further information please visit: www.formersouthboroughlibrary.co.uk balthazar.butcher@carterjonas.co.uk | 07814 483274 james.staveley@carterjonas.co.uk | 07585 991350
Travel
travel
36
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Good books to inspire your next holiday destination... From Greece to Africa or closer to home, Hannah Stephenson looks to beautiful settings in books that can spark wanderlust in us all
C
an’t decide where to go on holiday this year? Leafing through the pages of classic and new novels and travelogues could point you in some interesting directions. Whether you want the warm, sunny climes of Peter Mayle’s A Year In Provence, the classic architecture of Florence and Rome in Henry James’ The Portrait Of A Lady or to explore different cultures and climates, a handful of good reads could provide the inspiration for a bucket load of travel. Get ready to map out your wish list of locations with these top reads…
Greece History buffs with a penchant for island-hopping will be glued to Victoria Hislop’s stories, transporting you to a Greece full of colour, which began with her 2005 debut novel The Island (Headline Review) – which gives a vivid description of Cretan life, weaving in the story of Greece’s leper colony on Spinalonga. It has sold more than two million copies worldwide to date and was made into a hit Greek TV series (both Victoria and her husband, Private Eye editor Ian Hislop, had walk-on parts). The sequel, One August Night (Headline Review) reveals what happened when the
leper colony closed and how its inhabitants fared when they returned to the mainland. For some sun-soaked escapism, bag Mandy Baggot’s light-hearted romcom Staying Out For Summer (Head Of Zeus), which sees a young nurse’s holiday in Corfu throw up some romantic possibilities with the village doctor. GREECE Is the word...
Norway Even though Dune (Hodder Paperbacks) is a sci-fi book, Stadlandet in Norway comes into the frame in the latest film adaptation to let the imagination take readers to ‘Caladan’, the stark, inhospitable, windswept planet 20 light years from Earth, first created by author Frank Herbert in 1965. The film has
boosted tourism to the region, but as well as reimagining the book’s dramatic setting, visitors may also want to follow the winding road of the Atlantic Ocean Road, as another film icon James Bond does in No Time To Die.
Caribbean It’s not all fly and flop in the Caribbean, as readers discover in What A Mother’s Love Don’t Teach You by Sharma Taylor (Virago, out Jul 7). It’s a novel set in Kingston, Jamaica, about a woman who is reunited with her son, 18 years after giving him as a baby to the rich couple she worked for before they left. A story of belonging and identity, it brings together a chorus of voices to evoke Jamaica’s dance halls and criminal underworld, at the heart of which is a mother’s love for her son.
Africa Anyone planning a safari should pick up a copy of The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony (Pan), a South African conservationist who accepted a herd of ‘rogue’ elephants to his Thula Thula game reserve. Risking his life to bond with the elephants, he assumes a hugely special relationship with the herd, the wise matriarch Nana and her warrior sister Frankie. This ultimately heart-warming
Travel
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
recollection sheds great light on the emotional intelligence of these majestic animals.
France Fancy a city break to Paris? Debut Amanda Bestor-Siegal’s The Caretakers (Little, Brown, out Apr 12) focuses on several dynamic women in a wealthy suburb of Paris and an event that changes their lives, told through six women who are living very different city existences. Film rights have been snapped up by Emma Stone’s production company. Peter Mayle’s witty classic memoir A Year In Provence (Penguin), in which he charts his funny and sometimes fraught experiences of moving into a 200-year-old stone farmhouse in Southern France, will bring a huge ray of sunshine to travellers and non-travellers alike.
Italy As a former travel guide in Rome who lived in Italy for many years, Donna Leon has an insider’s eye for detail. Her new novel Give Unto Others (Hutchinson Heinemann, out March 3), in which she examines the corruption within an Italian charitable organisation, weaves in the magnificent architecture of Venice, the constant, mouth-watering presence of food, the loving
37
and loyal Brunetti family, and the sense of menace which lurks around the corner. Timeless classic novels which will have you salivating over Italy include A Room With A View by E M Forster (Penguin Classics), where a young woman’s repressed, rigid upbringing is thrown off balance when she visits Florence, a city which offers a wealth of romantic opportunities; and The Portrait Of A Lady by Henry James (William Collins), featuring beautiful descriptions of both Florence and Rome.
Staycation settings From the Shetlands to Cornwall, no literary stone will be left unturned, whether you want to investigate Brighton with top crime writer Peter James, through his famous Det Supt Roy Grace, or Edinburgh with Rebus creator Ian Rankin, or disappear into romance and relationships in HEBRIDES The Island Home is set on the Scottish isles
PARIS Perfect for city breaks
Cornwall with Fern Britton, Judy Finnigan and a raft of other novelists. If you’re keen on exploring Britain’s lost cities, Matthew Green’s factual book Shadowlands: A Journey Through Britain (Faber & Faber, Mar 17) takes you on an atmospheric tour of ghost towns and disappeared villages, from a Neolithic settlement in Orkney buried in sand, to a medieval city swept from a shingle island. The Island Home by Libby Page (Orion) is set on a remote Scottish island in the Hebrides, based on the Isle of Eigg, in which a woman
KERALA A land of colour returns with her daughter to the island where she grew up and where her family might mend itself. Her descriptions of the dramatic landscapes, the black lochs, coves and jagged hills will make you feel like you’ve been there – or certainly make you want to visit. Continuing the Scottish theme, Close To Where The Heart Gives Out by Malcolm Alexander (Michael O’Mara) charts the true story of a young vet’s move from suburban Glasgow to Eday (with a population of 125) in the Orkneys, where he provides a deeply moving account of island life. Those considering visiting the east of England should look out for writer Elly Griffiths, whose Norfolk is a huge part of the storyline of each novel in her bestselling Dr Ruth Galloway crime series, the latest of which, The Locked Room (Quercus), sees her archaeologist sleuth helping solve a series of mysterious deaths. Meanwhile, award-winning crime writer Ann Cleeves, already well known for her Northumberland detective Vera and Shetland Island mystery series, has her sights set on North Devon for her latest book, The Heron’s Cry (Pan Macmillan). It’s set in a glorious summer packed with tourists, where Detective Matthew Venn investigates an elaborately staged murder
among a group of artists. Of course, who could forget Ireland, the setting of so many inspiring reads – from Sally Rooney’s emotionally charged Normal People (Faber & Faber), about the complex relationship between two teenagers Connell and Marianne and set in and around Dublin, to bestselling author Marian Keyes’ latest exploration of families, friendships and relationships in Again, Rachel (Michael Joseph), her sequel to Rachel’s Holiday.
India A land full of colour, culture and fascinating history, many writers have been drawn to the storyboard of India. Arundhati Roy won the prestigious Booker Prize in 1997 for her first novel The God Of Small Things (Harper Perennial), a story about Rahel and Estha, twins growing up among the banana vats and peppercorns of their blind grandmother’s factory, amid scenes of political turbulence in Kerala. And who can resist Salman Rushdie’s acclaimed Booker Prize-winning second novel, Midnight’s Children (Vintage Classics)? This much-loved historical fantasy reflects on the issues India faced post-independence, including culture, language and religion.
SPRING BREAK
5 DAYS
£290
COACH BREAK TO SCOTLAND
LOCH TUMMEL HOTEL PERTHSHIRE
TripAdvisor
MONDAY 25TH APRIL Come and visit Scotland in the spring! With included excursions to St Andrews, Braemar and Balmoral as well as entry into Blair Castle. TOUR INCLUDES
4 nights half board. Nightly entertainment. Excursions. PICKUP FROM
Tunbridge Wells, Southborough, Tonbridge, Hildenborough, Sevenoaks, Swanley, Dartford, Birchanger Services
FLORENCE Italian beauty
LOCHS.COM 01389 713713 LOCHS & GLENS HOLIDAYS, SCHOOL ROAD, GARTOCHARN, G83 8RW
38
Wednesday March 2 | 2022
Motoring News
This week… Renault’s hydrogen concept
n
Latest dynamic drive from Porsche n A new Raptor pick-up
n
Renault teases concept car that runs on hydrogen RENAULT has released a teaser image for a new concept car that will run on hydrogen. While most manufacturers are pushing ahead with electric vehicles to reduce emissions, some are also investing heavily in hydrogen propulsion. In a statement accompanying the image, Renault said the concept was ‘part of the company’s recently announced objective of achieving a 100 per cent electric energy mix by 2030’.
Reaction In simple terms, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles use an electric motor powered by a battery, but instead of topping up the battery through a plug like a traditional EV, a chemical reaction using hydrogen takes place within a fuel cell. This creates electricity that can be used to power the motor or top up the battery. The advantage is that a smaller battery can be used than in an EV, which saves weight, while refilling a hydrogen tank is much quicker than recharging a big battery. The downsides are consumer concerns about safety, as hydrogen is stored in a highly pressurised tank, while hydrogen refuelling infrastructure is almost nonexistent.
However, despite Renault saying this model will be part of its ‘100 per cent electric energy mix’, there are rumours that the fact it has been described as a ‘hydrogen engine’ could hint at this being a traditional combustion engine converted to run on hydrogen. Toyota has been testing a similar concept in recent years. The French firm currently sells hydrogenpowered commercial vehicles, but these use the traditional fuel cell approach. Either way, there are no harmful emissions from the tailpipe. Very few details have been released about the new concept from Renault, but the teaser image shows a sharp design that shares many cues with the Renault 5 Electric concept released last year. There are triangular daytime running lights, slim headlights with a four-bulb design and an illuminated Renault badge. The bonnet has deep creases in its sides, while it appears to have cameras in place of traditional wing mirrors. The image was released during Renault’s annual results presentation, with CEO Luca de Meo strongly hinting that it would make production, saying: “When we do a concept, we want to turn that into real cars.” The Renault hydrogen concept will be revealed in full in May.
Porsche reveals Macan T with A next-generation Ford Ranger its focus on dynamic driving Raptor revealed with 284bhp V6 PORSCHE has given the Macan SUV the Touring treatment, giving it a more dynamic focus. Badged Macan T, it’s designed to sit between the standard Macan and the Macan S, receiving an ‘athletic design’ and equipment focused on a sporty driving style. It uses a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 261bhp and 400Nm of torque, with Porsche saying it was used because of its balance of performance with a lightweight construction. The engine is paired with a quick-shifting seven-speed dual clutch transmission and an allwheel-drive system, with the combination resulting in a 6.2-second 0-60mph time.
Rigid The Macan T is the only Porsche to have steel suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management as standard. It’s also 15mm lower than regular models with more rigid anti-roll bars on the front axle, which is all aimed at improving the handling. A rear bias has been added to the traction management system, while optioning the
adaptive air suspension brings a further drop of 10mm. To make the T stand out, Agate Grey Metallic paint is added to various details, such as the wing mirrors, roof spoiler and rear logos. Other additions for this model include sports tailpipes, gloss black window trims and 20-inch alloy wheels. Inside, there are heated sports seats with an exclusive leather upholstery based on the black leather package, while the exterior’s contrasting colour is also brought inside for some neat touches. Further standard equipment includes a multifunction GT heated sports steering wheel and the Sport Chrono stopwatch on the dashboard. The wheel can be upgraded at extra cost to have a Race-Tex and carbon-fibre trim. The Touring is based on the facelifted Macan that was introduced last year, which brought a new centre console with a glass look and touch-sensitive surface and a 10.9-inch infotainment display. Prices start at £53,970 and deliveries will begin in spring.
FORD has revealed the new Ranger Raptor, giving its performance pick-up truck more power and better off-road abilities. The key update is the introduction of a new engine, with the 284bhp, 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine replacing the old model’s 2.0-litre diesel. As well as getting power, it also has more torque at 491Nm. The engine block itself is stronger than a traditional iron unit and gets an anti-lag system first developed for the firm’s GT road car that provides more instantaneous throttle response. It keeps the turbos spinning for three seconds after the driver comes off the throttle, which ensures they’re ready to go when the driver needs them. Finding grip in adverse conditions is key for a model like the Ranger Raptor, and to help this Ford has fitted a full-time four-wheel drive system with an on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials. Seven selectable drive modes configure various settings to allow for a better driving experience, whether taking it easy on roads or dirt tracks, or
trying to cross deserts at full pace. Key to the new Raptor is its upgraded suspension, with the Fox shock absorbers being the highlight. They are said to be the most sophisticated ever fitted to a Raptor and are filled with a Teflon-infused oil that reduces friction by about 50 per cent compared with the outgoing model.
Beefed Fox hardware is used, but Ford’s engineers tuned and developed it by adjusting the spring rates, ride height and more, to provide the required characteristics. The new Ranger Raptor gets a suitably beefed up styling package to suit its brawny nature, with flared wheel arches, 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres, and a unique orange paint job. The interior gets sports seats, a leather heated steering wheel and coloured accents. The Raptor will be the first next-generation Ranger variant to arrive in Europe, with customer deliveries starting in late summer 2022.
39
November 10 | 2021 Wednesday March 2 | 2022
H ENGINEERING PROUDLY UNDERTAKE THE RESTORATION OF CLASSIC & VINTAGE VEHICLES.
WWW.H-ENGINEERING.COM
H E n gin eerin g Ltd, L ittle Ca cketts Farm , H ay m an s H i l l , H o rsm o n den , Ke n t , T N 1 2 8 BX
info@h-engineering.com | 01892 549042
BOX OFFICE, OPEN AND READY! 01892 678 678 · trinitytheatre.net
KITCHEN & BAR · MON-SAT · 10am - 3pm
THEATRE & TALKS
trinitytheatre.net
CINEMA & EVENT CINEMA
Thur 3 Mar 8pm · The Open Page with... Laura Marhsall and CJ Tudor Authors in conversation + book signing! Tues 08 - 12 Mar · Trinity Theatre Club Presents:
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare: Abridged
Thur 17 Mar 8pm · Shake It Up: The Improvised Shakespeare Play Fri 18 Mar 8pm · The Man Who Thought He Knew Too Much Wed 23 Mar 7.30 · NT Connections · Trinity Youth Theatre Hunt/DNA Double bill · one act plays Thur 31 Mar 8pm · Codebreakers: The Story of the Enigma TALK
Q&A + hands-on demonstration of one of the very few surviving Enigma machines.
APRIL HIGHLIGHTS... Sun 03 Apr · 8pm Withered Optimism
Wed 02 Mar 7.30pm · Silent Film Night: Buster Keaton's The General + LIVE pianist Stephen Horne Tues 15 Mar 8pm · Nightmare Alley Wed 16 Mar 7pm · Corpus Christi (Young Film Programmers) £5 Sun 20 Mar 7pm · The Mauritanian (Amnesty International Screening) + LIVE EXCLUSIVE Q&A with Director Kevin Macdonald, Mohamedou Salahi himself, lawyer Nancy Hollander, and Guantanamo expert, journalist Andy Worthington.
Tues 22 Mar 8pm · Master Cheng Fri 25 Mar 8pm · RSC: Henry VI Part 1 (Theatre Screening) Tues 29 Mar 8pm · The Eyes of Tammy Faye Wed 30 Mar 8pm · Death On The Nile APRIL HIGHLIGHTS... Tues 05 Apr 8pm · Parallel Mothers Tues 19 Apr 8pm · The Duke Wed 20 Apr 8pm · Cyrano Thur 21 Apr 7pm · NT Live: Henry V (Kit Harington, Donmar Screening)
Sun 24 Apr 7pm · Watson: The Final Problem
MUSIC & COMEDY
COMMUNITY & FAMILY EVENTS
Fri 04 Mar 8pm · G2: Definitive Genesis Sat 05 Mar 8pm · The Good Ship Comedy · Trinity Comedy Club · £13! Sat 26 Mar 8pm · Voodoo Room: The Music of Clapton, Hendrix & Cream Sun 27 Mar 7pm · The Breathing Room Presents...Edwina Hayes · £10+
Wed 02 Mar 10am · Trinity Encore: Moving with Music (weekly) Wed 02 Mar 11.30am · Trinity Encore: Senior Choir (weekly) Sat 19 Mar 10am · Repair Café (monthly) Mon 28 Mar 10.30am · Trinity Senior Cinema: Easter Parade (monthly)
APRIL HIGHLIGHTS...
FAMILY HIGHLIGHTS...
Fri 02 Apr 8pm · COLDPLACE Sat 09 Apr 8pm · Strictly Dan Without Boundaries Sun 10 Apr 7pm · The Breathing Room Presents...FIONA CROFT · £10+ Fri 22 Apr 8pm · Tits, Gits and Little Sh*ts: An Evening with Gill Sims SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS... Hometown Glory:
Spiers & Boden · JUNE
Adele Tribute · MAY
GENERAL. enquiries@trinitytheatre.net Box Office:01892 678 678 ·
Down For The Count · JUNE
Come say hello.
Fridays 9.30 - 10.15am · Story Time (FREE weekly) Sun 03 Apr · SPLAT Tues 05 Apr · I Spy With My Little Eye Thurs 07 Apr · The Hogmoor Troll Sat 16 Apr · The Wizard of Oz Sat 23 Apr · Comedy Club 4 Kids Sat 28 May · Twirlywoos SUMMER YOUTH THEATRE · BOOKING FAST! Show in a Week: Disney's Jungle Book · JULY Trinity Youth Theatre Presents: The Addams Family School Edition · JULY Show in a Week: Seussical Jr · AUGUST
#MoreThanATheatre
trinitytheatre
#CommunityMatters
trinitytheatretw trinitytheatre