Times of Tunbridge Wells 11th May 2016

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

All the news that matters

YOUR

FREE

Local, National and International

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

A R Pa n E int xh CO IO i OM ing bi T s b tion LO O MA F U y o Y1 AN f C R 9T US hin S O MA H SA ese Y2 RK Bru ISS sh 6, SE IAN E

FR

PA GE

PAPER

13

Retail chain takes over Morrisons INSIDE LOCAL & LIVE

Home, garden and leisure giant moving into empty town centre store Exculsive by Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk ANOTHER ‘mid-price’ retailer will be coming to Tunbridge Wells with the news that The Range is due to move into the former Morrisons site.

Council officers at the Town Hall were set to approve the transfer of the current lease to the homeware store late yesterday (Tuesday).

The Range was founded in 1980 by retail tycoon Chris Dawson, a former street vendor, and turned into a chain with more than 100 stores offering 65,000 home, leisure and garden products.

Any decision on whether the lease will be transferred will also have to be approved by site owners Canada Life Investments, an asset management subsidiary of the insurance giant.

However, while the Times understands this has yet to be granted, it’s clear that the company are ‘keen’ on the idea.

Jonathan MacDonald, Director of Planning & Development at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said yesterday in response to questions from the Times: “We received on Friday a request for approval to enable an assignment of the Morrisons’ lease.

“My understanding from my discus-

sion with Canada Life is that they are keen but have yet to grant their own formal approval. The proposed assign-

‘Good for the local economy’ ment is to homeware store The Range.”

News that the Vale Road site is likely to avoid reverting to a disused ‘eyesore’ will come as a relief to residents who can remember when it was left derelict for six years after Morrisons first pulled out in 2006 before later returning. They also closed the store for a second time on April 2 this year.

The move coincides with the sale of the old cinema site 200 yards away,

which itself had been allowed to fester for 15 years, but could see development begin next year.

Reflecting the mood among councillors, Cllr Jane March, portfolio holder for Economic Development, said: “I was very pleased to be informed that the former Morrisons store will not be empty for too much longer.

“I am encouraged that businesses continue to see Tunbridge Wells as a place where they should be investing.

It is good for the local economy and shows confidence in the town and the borough.”

Organisers forced to tone down biggest music festival

PAGE 5

COUNCIL ELECTIONS Full results including win for Lib Dem Peter Lidstone

Continued on page 4

We won the rugby cup

PAGES 8-9

FOOD & DRINK

Why The Riverside is making culinary waves

CELEBRATION TIME Tunbridge Wells RC wins Twickenham cup final to remain unbeaten all season Turn to page 6 PAGES 80-81

GREAT EU DEBATE MP Nus Ghani answers Our readers’ questions

OUT PAGES12-13

Swarovski Tunbridge Wells Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells TN l 2SS

~

0

u ~ U)

> 0 O::::'. <t:

~

U)

SWAROVSKI

4 � LOCAL NEWS

Weather

Retail giant makes its move on Morrisons

IMAGINE How the new store might look

Continued from page 1

Wednesday

May 11, 2016

º

18 C

Rather unsettled with some bright or sunny spells Visibility: Good

Pollution: Moderate

Humidity: 68%

Sunrise: 05.14am

Sunset: 21.47pm

Wind: 7mph

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

19ºC

14ºC

12ºC

13ºC

14ºC

15ºC

Town Hall lawn is in bloom

by Faye Day

WHO IS OWNER CHRIS DAWSON?

WHAT IS THE RANGE?

Send your weather pictures into... newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES GEMMA HAK ghak@markerstudy.com | 01892 779580 GENERAL INQUIRIES newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews IF YOU HAVE A STORY WE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU Contact details above

Founded in 1980 by Chris Dawson in Plymouth, The Range is a British home, garden and leisure chain which competes in the ‘mid-price’ market and is set to take over the empty Morrisons store.

The chain operates over 100 stores nationwide and employs around 3,000 staff, with the closest shops prior to the opening in Tunbridge Wells located in Maidstone and Eastbourne.

Originally named CDS Superstores, the company is now one of the UK’s largest mid-sized private firms, recording profits of £56.9million last year.

The retailer is recognised for its unique variety with more than 65,000 products across 16 departments, including DIY, homeware, furniture, lighting, arts & crafts and garden.

Chris Dawson is the epitome of a self-made billionaire.

Born in 1952, he’s the son of a Royal Navy sailor turned market trader. Mr Dawson’s first experience of business was at the age of seven when he sold ice creams outside the Kings Arms pub in Plymouth.

He left school at 15 with few qualifications, due to his irregular attendance and battle with dyslexia, and joined the family business selling seafood from the back of a van with his father.

Mr Dawson then moved into business for himself by selling perfume and

jewellery from a suitcase. He did well.

By the early 1980’s he had opened two cash-and-carry stores in Exeter and Newton Abbot, before selling them at the high end of the property boom towards the end of the decade.

In 1989, Mr Dawson founded CDS (Superstores International) Ltd, and has successfully overseen its transformation into The Range.

Throughout this period, the entrepreneur has amassed considerable wealth, becoming the 77th richest person in Britain with an estimated fortune of £1.65billion as of last year.

Date set for ‘land tax’ legal briefing THE meeting for residents of Rusthall and Tunbridge Wells Commons to discuss Targetfollow’s land tax letters will be held on Friday (May 13) at the Ratcliffe Centre, formerly Rusthall Fire Station.

The owners of Rusthall Manor have sent out a series of letters demanding payment in return for access rights to the properties on

their land and use of utilities supplied across the commons.

Local solicitor Jill Thomas will be present to give a ‘general overview’ of the legal implications of the correspondence, which has upset many local people.

People are being asked to prove their ‘prescriptive rights’ of access or pay the

company an annual fee of £350 and a signup charge of £300. Alternatively, they can appoint Targetfollow to create on their behalf a relevant document – which would also cost money.

The meeting will begin at 7pm and will be chaired by Rusthall borough councillor Cllr Thelma Huggett.

IS MAKING A PROFIT A SIGN OF GREED OR SUCCESS? 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times of Tunbridge Wells 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 at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU, or email newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.

PRINTED BY NEWBURY NEWS LTD Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury, Berkshire. RG14 2DW

QUOTE UNQUOTE ‘A wise man will make haste to forgive, because he knows the true value of time, and will not suffer it to pass away in unnecessary pain’

Samuel Johnson

Wednesday 11th May 2016

WHAT a glorious week it turned out to be.

Temperatures soared at the weekend… the Morrisons site is on the verge of being ‘sold’…

Jazz on The Pantiles kicked off and… Saturday saw one of the biggest sporting occasions in the town’s history.

Tunbridge Wells Rugby Club were at Twickenham to take on St Benedicts from Cumbria in the final of the Intermediate Cup. They won with relative ease which means they have not lost a single match all season.

What, though, was truly remarkable was the number of people that climbed aboard the fleet of coaches for the trip to London.

Organisers originally hoped to get 3,500 at the game. As the big day approached that figure jumped to 5,000. In the end more than 9,000 attended with close to 8,000 of them coming from Tunbridge Wells.

And among those travelling was a large

contingent from the local football club who chose to support players who have to pick up the ball and run.

Question is: How do you follow all that next season?

THE news that Morrisons has been ‘sold’ will bring a sigh of relief from those who remember the site being boarded up for six years after Morrisons walked away. It became another eyesore to match the old cinema site just up the road.

This week the lease on the site opposite the station will be assigned to The Range, which styles itself as a ‘mid-price’ retailer with 120 shops nationwide selling everything you could possibly need for your home or garden.

The move comes hard on the heels of the bargain store Wilko planning to open in the shopping centre in the summer and the earlier

arrival of Poundland. All of which reflects the changing face of our town as we adjust to the touch of austerity.

What’s really interesting about The Range is the back story.

It was started by Chris Dawson in 1980 when he was an open air market trader. His drive and spirit led to it appearing on The Sunday Times HSBC Top Track 250 league table of leading private companies, and to the man himself appearing on The Sunday Times Rich List.

His approach to business is summed up by this comment on the company website: “His ethos in business is to make as much profit as possible; whilst to some this may be seen as greed, in his eyes it is merely the measure of how successful he is in his field.”

Welcome to Tunbridge Wells, Mr Dawson.

Richard Moore, Editorial Director

LOCAL NEWS 

Bake Off celebrity helps launch food festival THE first Pantiles Food Festival of the year starts Friday (May 13) and promises a weekend of specialist and seasonal produce, cooking demonstrations and local bands.

It will include presentations by celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager and Mat Riley, a former fireman from Tunbridge Wells who found fame on last year’s Great British Bake Off television show.

Cross Kent challenge A FORMER Royal Engineer Warrant Officer is undertaking a year-long challenge to run, walk or cycle every square kilometre of Kent to raise money for the county’s Air Ambulance service.

Steve Morley (46) has so far covered 850 miles of roads, beaches and footpaths traversing both Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells boroughs in his quest to raise £5,000. www.justgiving.com/Stephen-Morley4.

Dairy Crest plans PLANNING permission has been submitted by retirement house builder McCarthy & Stone to redevelop the former Dairy Crest Depot on St John’s Road. Their proposal seeks to redevelop the site with 48 Extra Care apartments for people in later life.

New trustees at ellenor THE Board of Trustees at the charity ellenor has appointed four new members, including David Philpott, past Chairman of the Institute of Directors in Kent. He has been joined by Kerry-Jane Packman, Jan Stanton and Mark Lovell.

Ellenor provides hospice care, and family support, for children suffering from terminal illnesses throughout West Kent.

Postal service returns LAMBERHURST Post Office reopened with a much reduced service on Monday after a month-long closure which led some residents to question whether it would be returning at all. The Post Office said ‘operational reasons’ were behind the prolonged closure.

Debt-laden music festival to be toned down this year Andrew Tong newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE biggest music festival in Tunbridge Wells, Local & Live, is to be drastically scaled back to help the organiser pay off outstanding debts.

The news will come as a blow to festival fans who last year flocked to the four-day event in their thousands. More than 300 bands took to stages around the town including those in Calverley Grounds.

It was the most successful Local & Live since the event started ten years ago.

Organiser Paul Dunton added a second platform to the Calverley Grounds Main Stage last year, the Ollie Nicholls Acoustic Stage.

However, this August Bank Holiday there will be no music in Calverley Grounds.

Mr Dunton said he was still paying off debts to the sound and staging companies who helped him to put on his show in 2015.

The singer-songwriter will hold the event on a smaller scale for one year only and get it back up and running properly in 2017.

The funds raised this year will go towards settling his arrears.

“I want to get the finances back on an even keel,” he said.

“Some people will be disappointed. But these are community events. They need to realise that it has to be properly funded.”

After a decade of staging the town’s extravaganza, Mr Dunton felt the need to take a step back.

NO PARK LIFE Calverley Grounds concerts have been cut.

(Below) Paul Dunton

PHOTOS: Sarah Bond

NEWS IN BRIEF

5

“It was bigger than ever last year, but then my father died just before the event. Having done it for ten years in a row I’m exhausted.”

He added: “A smaller operation will help me get back on my feet and recharge my batteries.

But we really want to keep doing it.

“I was looking forward to having a break – Glastonbury

Southborough Hub plans revealed NEW images of what the £30million Southborough Hub project could look like have been released by Kent County Council (KCC).

The authority, which is undertaking the three-way project alongside Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Southborough Town Council, also pledged a commitment to further public viewings.

In a statement the KCC said: “Architects are

continuing to develop the new build scheme for the hub and pre-planning application meetings are being held with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council planning department to finalise proposals.”

The county council added: “Subject to the conclusion of these discussions and approval by project partners, these plans will then be shared with the public.”

has a year off every five or six years – but I really want to keep it going.”

A remarkable 320 bands performed in 2015, and there will still be more than 100 acts to catch this year. They will be playing at three venues this time, compared to the 15 last year.

The Forum and the Grey Lady will be rocking for the full four nights, while the Sussex Arms will also host a variety of acts. “It will be ticketed but it won’t cost much,” said Mr Dunton.

He has picked out Noble Jacks, Sussex-based purveyors of ‘foot-stomping alternative folk’, as one of the bands to watch at the festival on August 26-29.

NEW VIEW The Hub could look like this

Celebrity endorsement A SOUTHBOROUGH-based patient group that helps those with a rare genetic disorder has gained a celebrity patron.

Shaun Williamson, best known for his role as ‘Barry’ in EastEnders has lent his support to the Association for Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Disorders.

Those suffering from this inherited condition are at risk of having more than one gland in the body form tumours, potentially resulting in death if not detected early.

HOW WILL YOU VOTE IN THE EU REFERENDUM ON JUNE 23?

DO YOU STILL HAVE UNANSWERED QUESTIONS? Join the Discussion Forum at the Assembly Hall on May 25 7.30pm when a panel of experts will answer your questions.

Tell them you’re responding to the Times of Tunbridge Wells Reader Offer The debate will be chaired by Andy Bell, Political Editor ITN News 5.

More details can be found at www.thediscussionfoirum.co.uk ITN’s Andy Bell

Times READER OFFER for only £10 (regular price £18) The debate is being held in association with this newspaper and today we’re giving you the chance to buy tickets at just £10. Call the Assembly Hall on 01892 530613.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

6  LOCAL NEWS

MAIN PHOTOS: Bruce Elliott

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS The Wells celebrate

By Eileen Leahy TUNBRIDGE WELLS rugby team are basking in sporting glory after winning the RFU Intermediate Cup final at Twickenham on Saturday to add to their earlier league championship.

The 22-strong squad beat St Benedicts from Whitehaven in Cumbria after a thrilling match which included eight tries and an amazing drop kick goal by Charlie Harding which helped the Wells secure a triumphant 56 points to 14.

Thousands of fans from the town travelled by coach, train and car to the spiritual home of rugby on one of the hottest days of the year to support a team that has won all its 29 matches this year and also been crowned league champions of London Division Two South-East.

“We thought a few thousand might turn up but in the end there was a crowd of 9,000 in

Wednesday 11th May 2016

the stadium,” said Tunbridge Wells RFC’s Director of Rugby Alex Nicolson.

“The RFU said the majority of them were from Tunbridge Wells and that it was the biggest crowd they’d ever seen at Twickenham for this type of cup final match.

They also commented on the fantastic support the crowd gave the players.

“It was overwhelming and humbling just to have so many people behind us. The crowd was in effect the 16th man.”

Former Skinners’ pupil Nicholas Doherty scored the team’s first try within ten minutes with others coming shortly afterwards from Alex Maynard and Lee Campion.

Points from kicker Hayden Pope helped Tunbridge Wells secure a 27-0 lead in the first half before St Benedicts reduced the score to 27-7.

Throughout the first 40 minutes, the Tunbridge Wells team displayed an impressive range of tackling, possession and conversions and the fans loved every second waving the team’s blue and white chequered flags and shouting ‘Come on you Wells’ – the club’s official chant – with the help of representatives from Tunbridge Wells Football Club who had come along to join in the fun.

Early on in the second half St Benedicts’ Mike Hawley’s converted try put another seven points on the board but Tunbridge Wells stepped things up a gear with powerful tries scored by Fred Tila and Charles Spence and a

POWERFUL PERFORMANCE Fred Tila scores a try

“It was a brilliant day and the lads couldn’t have played better. A big feature of the day for me was the huge support from the club and the town and I want to thank all of those people, particularly the football club members, for their great singing and amusing chants.”

Club President Roger Clarke

PLAYING TO THE CROWD Fans applaud the Wells’ victory

PHOTO: Eileen Leahy

Wells make history with cup and league double

couple of conversions by Hayden Pope.

But it was former St Gregory’s pupil Charlie Harding’s skilful drop kick with just five minutes to go that helped the Wells clinch the championship.

“That kick summed it all up for me. It was purely sublime” said Alex Nicholson.

All 22 players in the squad, which was skippered by Sean O’Connor, had their moment of glory playing on Twickenham’s hallowed ground.

“Everyone in the team came on at some point and our game plan worked. I can’t begin to describe how much went into the build up to the final. The club put everything into it and it just shows what you need to do get a successful result,” said Alex Nicholson.

“If you’d said to me this time last year that we would win the league and cup double and play at Twickenham to an audience of thousands I wouldn’t have believed you.”

To celebrate, the team journeyed back to their ground at St Marks and the party lasted well into the early hours.

LOCAL ELECTION 

7

New police chief takes £10,000 salary cut Conservatives knock out UKIP after second round vote to decide Kent’s next PCC

By Adam Hignett

adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk Tomorrow (Thursday) the new Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott will take up the reins of office and his first job will be to slash his own salary.

He has decided to take £10,000 a year less, which drops his annual income to £75,000.

He told the Times: “I am doing this as an acknowledgment of police funding pressures. As the new commissioner I should show some leadership on this issue.”

The full background to Mr Scott’s decision to cut the salary will be disclosed on Thursday although the Times understands the £10,000 will go to local charities.

Voters in both Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells headed to the polls to choose their representative as Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent last week in what turned out to be a surprisingly close-run election.

Second preference votes had to be taken into account after the UKIP candidate Henry Bolton came within 15,000 votes of Conservative Matthew Scott in the first round.

The two candidates were vying to replace former Independent PCC Ann Barnes, whose tenure in office had frequently courted controversy.

However, the Tory party managed to consolidat e its grasp on the county after RUNNER-UP Mr Scott, a former ParliaHenry Bolton (UKIP) mentary manager, won in Matthew Scott Conservative

Henry Bolton UKIP

88,396 73,299 First Round Result above

the second round, securing a total of 104,558 first and second preference votes.

After the second round Mr Bolton, who served in the Army for 21 years before working in the police force, slipped a little further behind with 87,978 votes in total.

In his victory speech in Dover, Mr Scott praised the ‘positive’ tone of the campaign and suggested co-operation with some of his opponents was up for consideration.

He said: “It ha been an honour and a privilege

Voters are ‘concerned’ about Government policy on policing to be elected Kent’s Police and Crime Commissioner. I promise I will do my best by all Kent residents, whether they voted or they didn’t and no matter who they voted for.”

He added: “I will do all I can to support victims of crime, cut crime and make sure all parts of Kent feel valued.

“I want to encourage people to engage with the office of Police Crime Commissioner and I will work together with some of the other candidates on the issues which matter.”

He then went on to thank each of his opponents by name for focusing on policy and not on personality during the campaign.

However, it was noticeable that he omitted the name of the controversial English Democrat party candidate Steve Uncles.

Mr Scott said: “I pay tribute to Henry, Tristan [Osborne, Lab],

Tristan Osborne Labour

Gurvinder Sandher Independent

David Naghi, Liberal Democrat

Steve Uncles, English Democrat

TURNOUT %

50,978

26,221

19,601

8,311

21.5

CANDIDATE

FIRST PREFERENCE

SECOND

Scott, Matthew Richard, Conservative

88,396

16,162

TOTAL 104,558

Bolton, Henry UK Independence Party (UKIP)

73,299

14,679

87,978

KENT’S PCC Matthew Scott (L) in discussions with home secrety Theresa May

UKIP MOBILISES TO DOMINATE FORMER LABOUR STRONGHOLDS The relatively close result reflected a county divided, with voters in North and East Kent showing far greater enthusiasm for UKIP that their counterparts in the rest of the county.

UKIP candidate Henry Bolton came first in Medway, Shepway, Thanet and Swale and came a close second in Dartford, Dover and Ashford where he just lost out to Conservative candidate Matthew Scott.

Mr Scott stormed to victory in the more affluent parts of West Kent, winning double the votes of his UKIP opponent in Tunbridge Wells, 10,569 against 4,522, and Tonbridge, 8,214 against 4,239.

David [Naghi, Lib-Dem] and Gurvinder [Sandher, Ind] for making this a campaign about issues and not about people and their backgrounds.”

Mr Bolton said he was ‘very grateful’ for those who had supported his campaign and insisted that the voters had sent a ‘clear message’ that they were ‘concerned’ with the Government’s policies on policing.

He added: “I hope the Government listens clearly to that message.”

Although turnout in the county was among the lowest in England at just 20.98 per cent, Tunbridge Wells recorded the highest level of voter participation in the county at 32.2 per cent,

Labour’s eclipse in Kent was highlighted by the fact their candidate Tristan Osborne failed to come first in any part of the county and was in second place only in Gravesham.

In total Mr Osborne won 50,978 votes to come third – ahead of independent candidate Gurvinder Sandher on 26,221, who himself pushed the Liberal Democrats’ David Naghi into fourth place on 19,601.

The extreme right English Democrat candidate Steve Uncles came a distant fifth with just 8,311 votes, securing less than five per cent of the total votes required to retain his £5,000 deposit.

0.1 per cent ahead of Maidstone.

Tonbridge, which did not have local elections that day, recorded a turnout of 20.0 per cent, making it the fourth highest out of the 13 local authorities which participated.

SUSSEX RETURNS TORIES In neighbouring Sussex, Conservative Katy Bourne was re-elected to the role of Police Crime Commissioner with 139,335 votes in the second round, seeing off second-placed Labour candidate Michael Jones, who secured 86,392 votes. Turnout in the county was 22.54 per cent.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

8  LOCAL ELECTIONS

Tories tighten their grip as they buck national trend…

Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk CONSERVATIVES across the borough went against the national trend to tighten their grip on Tunbridge Wells as opposition in the council was reduced from six to five members.

The true-blue status of the borough was left in no doubt on Friday after the ballots were counted for the local elections.

Many of the Conservative incumbents retained their seat, with only Peter Lidstone’s victory for the Liberal Democrats over David Scott in St John’s ward causing an upset.

However, even this small victory was undone when the Tory candidate Carol Mackonochie unseated Hugh Patterson, the incumbent Liberal Democrat, in Capel.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Ben Chapelard, who successfully defended his own seat in St James’ ward, said the poll had been one of mixed fortunes for the party.

He added: “We are overwhelmed by the sheer amount of trust the people in St John’s have in us.

For many residents, a large Conservative majority does not work as it does not listen to them.

“But Hugh was a big loss for us, he was a great councillor with a sharp mind.”

Wednesday 11th May 2016

The Liberal Democrats’ position was left unchanged by the election with three councillors representing the party in the chamber.

Labour managed to retain one of their two seats in the Southborough and High Brooms ward, when Dianne Hill won with a resounding 52 per cent of the vote, following the resignation of her predecessor Alain Lewis.

Cllr Hill said her victory had been down to campaigning on ‘purely local’ issues, such as the Southborough Hub project, and not getting caught up in national politics.

‘It’s unusual for a leading party to gain seats during a mid-term election’ “I am local and those are the issues I focused on, nothing to do with the national party. The Tories tried to make it about national issues and put Jeremy Corbyn’s name on their leaflets, but it didn’t work,” she said.

And yet Labour failed to make any inroads beyond the ward, where their only council positions are based.

This left the Tories with 43 of the 48 seats in the council after their candidate David Reilly won in Pembury ward following the resignation of independent Mike Tompsett.

Opposition will be further eroded when the Mayor, David Elliott, hands over to the Liberal Democrat Cllr David Neve in two weeks’ time.

Under the borough’s constitution the Mayor must remain ‘politically neutral’ and will only be able to cast a deciding vote in the event of an even split in chamber, a situation exceeding unlikely with the Conservatives’ dominance.

Even the Council Leader David Jukes was

‘surprised’ by the resilience of his party and its ability to increase its number of councillors.

He said: “It was a great result, but it is unusual for a leading party to gain seats during a mid-term election when you have a ruling party in government.

“We deliver sound financial policy and run the borough in a business-like manner with the aim of making it self-sufficient.”

NUMBER CRUNCHERS The council election votes are counted

LOCAL ELECTIONS 

Sweeping victory for eco friendly LibDem Lidstone Traffic congestion and glass recycling proved to be vote-winners as Liberal Democrat candidate ousts Conservative in St John’s ward

Benenden & Cranbrook

Culverden

BOROUGH AS A WHOLE PARTY

SEATS WON

SHARE

CONSERVATIVE

13

48%

LIBDEM

2

18%

LABOUR

1

18%

UKIP

0

15%

GREEN PARTY

0

3%

9

“It was a very strong result and everyone is delighted to make gains and increase the majority which is testament to the hard work of our candidates.”

STANDING FIRM Greg Clark hails a Tory success story

Rusthall

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

SEAN HOLDEN

CONSERVATIVE

845

52%

RONEN BASU

CONSERVATIVE

780

44%

JOY ANN PODBURY

CONSERVATIVE

515

43%

Matthew Warne

LIBDEM

373

23%

Carol Wilson

Labour

346

20%

Colin Nicholson

UKIP

272

23%

Simon Hilton

UKIP

250

15%

Alan Bullion

LIBDEM

234

13%

Alex Britcher

Labour

204

17%

Isobel Kerrigan

Labour

150

9%

Stephen Lukacs

UKIP

217

12%

Isla McLachlan

LIBDEM

120

10%

Richard Leslie

Green Party

195

11%

David Holton

Green Party

94

8%

Brenchley & Horsmonden Sherwood

Goudhurst & Lamberhurst

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

JANE MARCH

CONSERVATIVE

1001

66%

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

Kevin Kerrigan

Labour

311

21

BARRY NOAKES

CONSERVATIVE

663

61%

FRANK WILLIAMS

CONSERVATIVE

655

46%

14%

Russ Bishop

UKIP

155

14%

Chris Hoare

UKIP

395

28%

Simon Fowler

Labour

147

13%

Martin Betts

Labour

261

18%

Nancy Warne

LIBDEM

130

12%

Mark Bicknell

LIBDEM

110

8%

Thomas Chetta

UKIP

205

Broadwater NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

BARBARA COBBOLD

CONSERVATIVE

583

55%

Mark Nicholson

UKIP

178

17%

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

James Ketteringham

Labour

173

16%

BEVERLEY PALMER

Conservative

844

58%

DIANNE HILL

LABOUR

910

52%

Conservative

444

26%

Marguerita Morton

LIBDEM

128

12%

Capel

Southborough & High Brooms

Hawkhurst & Sandhurst

John Austen

UKIP

315

22%

Christopher Camp

David Burgess

Labour

163

11%

Keith Murray-Jenkins

UKIP

197

11%

Thomas Deacon

LIBDEM

142

10%

Matt Lyons

Green Party

97

6%

Jo Wright

LIBDEM

91

5%

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

CAROL MACKONOCHIE

CONSERVATIVE

374

48%

Hugh Patterson

LIBDEM

298

38%

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

Ken Gillard

UKIP

74

9%

LEONARD HORWOOD

CONSERVATIVE

936

55%

Raymond Moon

Labour

39

5%

“My victory is a victory for all of the people of Southborough and High Brooms who have said that they have had enough of the secrecy surrounding the development of our town centre.”

OPEN FORUM Dianne Hill wants less secrecy

Pantiles & St Mark’s

Lorna Blackmore

Labour

229

14%

Dominic Mathon

LIBDEM

207

12%

Christopher Stevenson

UKIP

196

12%

John Hurst

Green Party

120

7%

Park

Speldhurst & Bidborough NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

JULIAN STANYER

CONSERVATIVE

1139

70%

Ann Tyler

Labour

283

17%

William O'Shea

UKIP

212

13%

St James’ NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

BEN CHAPELARD

LIBDEM

1101

71%

PETER BULMAN

CONSERVATIVE

879

51%

Harry Allen

Conservative

186

12%

Nick Maltby

Labour

323

19%

Linda Jagger

Labour

153

10%

Gillian Douglass

LIBDEM

308

18%

Naz Mian

UKIP

106

7%

Hazel Kelly

UKIP

220

13%

“We ran a strong campaign by getting out there, knocking on doors and talking to people on the doorstep.

“People are fed up with congestion along St John’s Road and want us to campaign to get glass included with front-door recycling.

“If the Liberal Democrat party is going to recover nationally then we have to start locally – and we are making that happen.”

TURN THE TIDE Peter Lidstone caused an upset in St John’s

St John’s Pembury

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

NAME

PARTY

VOTES

SHARE

PETER LIDSTONE

LIBDEM

756

43%

DAVID REILLY

CONSERVATIVE

857

54%

David Scott

Conservative

515

29%

David Weatherley

UKIP

326

21%

Timothy Rich

Labour

244

14%

Margaret Morgan

Labour

227

14%

Christine Marshall

UKIP

127

7%

James Cole

LIBDEM

169

11%

Phyllis Leslie

Green Party

105

6%

Wednesday 11th May 2016

10 � LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Handcrafted business turns to crowd for growth funding Crowdfunding may sound like an exotic or risky way to raise money, but it’s becoming an increasingly integral part of the strategy for small businesses and start-ups needing capital Adam Hignett adam@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk ONE local company taking the crowdfunding route is Dassie Artisan, a Pantiles-based wholesaler of handcrafted home ware, which has turned to crowdfunding to raise £225,000 to expand the business.

Founded in 2012 by husband and wife David and Roxi Zeeman, the couple – originally from Cape Town in South Africa – moved the business to The Pantiles in January in order to grow.

“We set it up within months of moving to the UK, but initially I was just running it as a pop-up in Wandsworth,” explained Roxi.

It was not long before they were given their first real break after entering a competition run

by Startup Britain, a campaigned aimed at boosting entrepreneurship in the UK. She said: “At the beginning there was no intention of the company going wholesale and I was going to run it as a small retail business on the weekends.

“But then I was alerted to a competition run by Startup Britain on Twitter and the winning companies were going to get the chance to pitch to John Lewis.

“It was only three months after we had set up and I was trying to get the social media side of the business going so I thought I would give it a go.”

Going through the process of applying forced the couple to focus their minds on what sort of company they wanted Dassie Artisan to be.

Their unique business model, which sees them source only handmade, cottage industry goods from around the world, was enough to secure

Wednesday 11th May 2016

them an opportunity to pitch to the head buyer of the famous department store.

“Three weeks after entering we got an email stating that out of the 500 businesses which had applied, we were just one of ten to win a place – and the rest is history.”

On the back of their successful pitch, the company won a year-long contract to supply John Lewis, with the store also offering coaching to the couple, who had no previous experience of the wholesale sector.

Despite the success, the pair were still running the business from the kitchen table, even after moving to Tunbridge Wells two years ago.

The company has grown and now employs four other people while expanding its supply network to some of the remotest areas on the planet.

Roxi said: “We design the products in-house and then source them out to the best artisan groups. We work with people in South Africa, Malawi, Kenya, India, Thailand and Vietnam.

“Each region has its own speciality, for example Thailand is excellent for glass, whereas India has the only region we know that works with marble.

“Every single item is made by hand using eco-friendly materials. There is nothing plastic or mass-produced.

“Most of the products are made in a cottage industry style, where different parts of each piece will be made in a number of homes before being amalgamated and packaged for us.”

As Creative Director, Roxi spends a large part of her time keeping an eye on the latest trends and fashions to ensure they stay ahead of the curve.

“We effectively take what the producers have been making for years and bring it forward to

‘We set it up within months of moving to the UK, but initially I was just running it as a pop-up in Wandsworth’ match contemporary trends, so I am constantly online looking at what is going on.

“We also have to take a lot of risks, for example this autumn/winter our range will be quite dark looking, which is very different to what we have done, but we have to be leaders as well as followers of trends,” she said.

There is added pressure on Dassie Artisan because of the nature of the products they source, and where they get them from, in that any error or misjudgment of the market is very hard to rectify and can be costly.

Part of the funding will go towards improving the logistics of the company and its chains, making them more resilient to problems, explained David.

He said: “Logistically, the planning behind it needs long lead times, and because everything is handmade the process of sampling it all takes a long time.

“So we need to be at least six months to a year ahead in preparation for your orders, but at the moment it is probably three or four months for us. We are working on extending that.”

The rapid growth of the company has in itself bought challenges as they are unable to meet demand for their products. “The demand far outstrips our current capacity, which is limited by what our cash flow allows.

“We have never had enough stock and currently have close to £200,000 of signed back orders from customers to fill, which is why we are busy raising funds at the moment,” Roxi adds.

So far, the company has just under half of the £225,000 it is seeking pledged to it by investors using the crowdfunding platform Crowdcube.

But time is running out for them to make up the remaining shortfall by May 20 as Crowdcube rules state that if the total is not reached, all money must be returned to those who have invested so far.

On offer as a ‘reward’ are shares equivalent to 15.79 per cent of the total.

Whatever happens in the near future, the couple are confident that their company will continue to be successful.

David said: “If the raise goes ahead we hope to implement a five-year plan that will see us hit sales of £10million by the end of that period.

“But if we do not hit the target we will carry on. There is pressure but it is not make or break for us.”

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS �

11

NEWS IN BRIEF

BOOMING BUSINESS Roxi & David Zeeman

Salomons set to host new social media day SOCIAL Day Kent is coming to Salomons Estate next week following on from the success of similar London events. Organised

by Avviso Media Ltd, it offers participants practical advice on the latest techniques in social media business marketing.

Guests will hear from inspirational speakers, complete workshops and learn from case studies as well as network with up to 200 other businesses.

Organiser Lucy Hall of Avviso Media said: “Social Day is not like any other conference as there is no sales agenda – the event is not sponsored so it’s all about collaboration and learning actionable insights about all social media platforms.” For more information see www.socialday.co.uk

The sporting lifestyle

its

WHAT IS CROWDFUNDING? Crowdfunding is a way of raising money by asking a large number of people for a small amount each. Previously, finding finance involved asking a few people for large sums.

Book subscriptions, benefits and the co-operative movement in the 19th and 20th centuries are historic examples of the alternative financing system.

But in its more innovative modern form, fundraisers typically use websites and social media to generate support, alongside traditional networks of friends, family and work connections.

There are three different types of crowdfunding: Donation or reward: Investors take part because they believe in the project, and expect nothing in return. However, there can be tangible ‘rewards’ built into the transaction.

Debt: Donors receive their money back with interest. Also known as peer-to-peer (P2P)

lending, it bypasses customary banking.

Equity: The investment is provided in exchange for equity, such as shares or a stake in the venture.

The first online crowdfunded project is thought to have taken place in 1997 when fans of rock band Marillion raised $60,000 to fund their tour of the United States.

In February 2012, crowdfunding for a single venture in the UK raised over £1million for the first time.

Kent winemakers Chapel Down, based in Tenterden, became the first listed company in the UK to venture into crowdfunding when it raised £4m in 2014.

At the time it was the largest sum ever raised by the ground-breaking finance resource in Britain.

The sum was raised from more than 1,400 investors in order to buy the lease on more

land to plant vines and build a new winery with storage and distribution.

This year the company has raised £1.16m by smaller-scale crowdfunding to help build its own brewery for its Curious Drinks beer and cider business.

Small investors gave upwards of £100 in return for shares in the business and other benefits. It also raised £275,000 from those prepared to put in a minimum £25,000, That brought them up to a total of £1.71m, from a total of 895 contributors. The initial target had been set at £1m when the project was launched last October.

The company already manufactures the cider at the Chapel Down winery but its lager, IPA and porter beers had been brewed in Leicester by Everards.

It will now begin construction on a brewery in nearby Ashford next month in order to bring all of its brewing operation in-house and expand production.

MULTI-franchise car dealer Lifestyle Motor Group has renewed its sponsorship agreement with Championship football team Brighton & Hove Albion.

Headquartered on Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, the company has dealerships across Kent, Sussex and Surrey, and a strong presence within the Brighton area.

Managing Director Peter Isted said: “We are thrilled to be reaffirming our partnership with Brighton & Hove Albion and its supporters.

“The past three years have seen many changes and huge steps forward, not only for Lifestyle but the club also, and we are looking forward to the future and the exciting times which lie ahead.”

Travel firm acquisition BALDWINS Travel Agency continues to expand its geographical footprint after its recent purchase of Lewes Travel, bringing its total number of locations to eight.

This latest acquisition by the Tunbridge Wells-based firm follows the purchase of Grace Travel in Cranbrook in February 2015.

The Joint Managing Directors of the Group, Nick and Chris Marks, said they were ‘very pleased’ with the acquisition, adding: “There is much synergy in the way that we all work – offering high quality customer service that is unrivalled in the county – and the country.”

Wednesday 11th May 2016

12 ■ EU DEBATE

The Times gets answers to your questions…

TIME TO GO Nus Ghani, MP for Wealden

As voting day draws near on the EU Referendum (June 23) the lobbying for support by the two sides grows more intense.

Should we remain in the EU or should we leave?

MANY people are still undecided and have questions still unanswered about the EU vote. That’s why we invited readers to send us their questions to be put direct to two local Conservative MPs who find themselves on opposite sides of the debate. Greg Clark (Tunbridge Wells) favours staying in Europe.

Nus Ghani (Wealden) wants out.

Our thanks to all the readers who responded with questions. Many covered similar ground. In the end we chose ten that we believe reflect the views and concerns of the majority.

This week they are answered by Nus Ghani. Greg Clark’s answers, which he has already submitted, will be published next week.

OUT

We keep hearing conflicting versions of the implications a Brexit will have on national security, with some saying it will make us safer as we can better control our borders while others say we will be more vulnerable as we will no longer share intelligence with the EU. Who is correct?

A former head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, has said that there could be “important security

Wednesday 11th May 2016

gains” if we leave. As a member of the Home Affairs Select Committee, I hear evidence showing that the EU prevents us from removing convicted killers and makes it harder for us to strip citizenship from British nationals who have gone abroad to engage in terrorism, meaning that they retain the right to return and live in the UK. I visited Europol recently and, worryingly, only a fraction of EU member states share information.

Our security does not depend on the EU. Will Britain still be required to abide by rulings from the European Court of Human Rights if we leave Europe? Isn’t it separate from the European Union?

It is impossible to reform the UK’s relationship with the ECHR while the UK remains in the EU. In October 2006, the Lord Chancellor, Lord Falconer of Thoroton, admitted that “it is not possible to be a member of the European Union and to have left or denounced the European Convention on Human Rights”. Today, all of the ECHR and more is contained in the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights, which unelected EU judges are using to take more control over the UK each year, for example taking control of the powers of the intelligence services.

What impact will Britain leaving the EU have on the City of London?

London is recognised globally as the world’s financial centre. While it is supported by our strong tradition of rules-based business, the English language and an ideal time zone, it is hampered by the EU currently setting further rules to regulate banks to the standard of the least developed EU financial services sector, like Greece. If we free ourselves from the EU, the City can do what it does best and trade unfettered with the rest of the world.

We like the idea of Brexit but are worried about the prospect of a second Scottish referendum leading to the breakup of the UK if we vote to leave the EU. What are the chances this could actually happen?

If we vote to leave, the Acts of Union of 1707 and 1800 will continue in force. What’s more, leaving the EU will mean a substantial increase in the powers of the devolved Parliaments and Assemblies. For example, EU power over agriculture and fisheries would mostly be vested in the devolved legislatures automatically after the repeal of the European Communities Act 1972. This will meet, in part, the demand throughout the UK for further devolution of powers. It is also questionable that any part of the UK would vote to leave it in order to join the EU. In principle, such a country would be obliged to join the euro currency and the Schengen Area, and would forfeit what is left of the UK’s rebate.

EU DEBATE ■

BAILING OUT If Britain stayed in the EU, it would pay for the euro crisis

This would require substantial cuts in public expenditure and acceptance of the Eurozone’s austerity programme.

If Britain votes to leave the EU, how long will the exit process take?

Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which Gordon Brown promised and failed to give us a referendum on, sets out the process for a member state which wishes to leave the EU. Article 50 sets a two-year maximum period for negotiations. If we follow that process, we will only do so after we have discussed the process of formal negotiations and legal implementation. The day after we vote, nothing changes legally, so the British Government will finally be able to take control, managing the process in the way that serves our interests best.

Will the UK be better insulated from the Eurozone crisis if we vote to leave the EU? If we vote to remain, the UK will still pay the EU £350million each week, and we have no legal guarantees that we would not have to contribute to any future Eurozone bailouts. EU politicians will not think twice about getting Britain to pay for the euro’s crisis if we stay in, and the European Court will allow them to do this, as it always does. The only way to end our potentially limitless liability for the euro’s crisis is to exit the EU. Is it actually realistic to think fast-growing nations are going to want to sign free trade deals with Britain if it is no longer part of the EU? The UK is an open, global trading nation. Political leaders around the world, including Mexico and New Zealand, have made clear that they want to

strike a free trade deal with the UK after we leave. We are the world’s fifth largest economy and our world-class products and services are demanded the world over. Leaving the EU doesn’t change the quality of those exports, or the demand for them from European customers, so it will remain in the interests of other countries to retain access to our economy through free trade deals.

What is the likelihood that if we vote to leave, other EU members will act in a vindictive manner towards the UK in order to set an example to other nations who may be considering an exit?

Remember that the EU itself is subject to World Trade Organisation rules, so it is limited in the hostile action it could take against Britain if it wanted to. Furthermore, the EU’s own treaties oblige the EU to develop good relations with its neighbours, of which we are very much one. The idea that other EU states hate Britain so much that they will try to screw us, so we should therefore let them control everything we do forever, just doesn’t make sense. We are net importers from the EU, and if the British people decide to leave it’s in everybody’s interests to reach a friendly deal.

We are worried that if Britain now votes to stay it will be seen as an effective endorsement of all things EU and we will no longer have any leverage to secure opt-outs from further integration. Is this going to be the case?

Yes, and this referendum isn’t just about the status quo – if we vote to remain, the European Court of Justice will continue to transfer power (and money) to Brussels every

13

year, and they will feel more complacent than ever about doing so. That’s the real threat to jobs and security. It will mean bailing out the euro the next time it goes wrong, because they will see our vote to remain as confirmation that we’re willing to be involved in everything. It may even embolden them to move forward with EU expansion plans, which would see countries like Turkey, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia joining the ranks.

We have read that many in the higher education sector say that UK research will suffer and our universities will no longer remain top in the global league tables if we leave the EU. Is this true?

No. The UK is a European leader in the provision of university education, with our universities significantly outperforming those of other regional countries. The only other European country featuring in the world’s top eight is Switzerland, which is not an EU member.

Some argue we would miss the benefits of the ERASMUS+ programme – but, given that the UK is a net contributor to the EU budget, after withdrawal we ourselves could replace the funding currently provided to British students supported by ERASMUS+. Alternatively, it is possible to participate in the programme from outside the EU, as countries such as Iceland and Norway already do.

Next week (May 18) we will publish answers to the same questions from MP Greg Clark, who favours remaining in the EU. Those answers have already been submitted.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

14  LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

Kent companies say EU is good for business TWO thirds of Kent business people believe their company would be better off if Britain remains in the EU, according to a poll by Tunbridge Wells accountancy firm Crowe Clark Whitehill.

Conducted at both the West Kent and Ashford B2B exhibitions, the polls found that 67 per cent of the 85 respondents believed their business would benefit from remaining in the European Union.

Tax Partner at the firm Simon Crookston said: “Some believed small businesses would suffer less red tape if we left the EU and also said money contributed to the EU would be better spent in the UK. However, others said it is too much of an unknown if we leave.”

Wage hike slows hiring THE rising minimum wage alongside uncertainty surrounding the referendum has led to a slower pace of hiring by companies within Kent a survey, of Kent Invicta Chamber has revealed.

Just 18 per cent of members said they had grown their workforce over the past three months – the lowest proportion in four years.

Seven in ten said their workforce remained unchanged and would remain unchanged during the next three months.

“Whether this was due to caution about possible Brexit, or a more fundamental cause such as the new minimum wage is too early to say,” the Chamber states in its Quarterly Economic Survey.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Lamberhurst firm picks up O2 telecom award…

ONE of Kent’s leading telecoms companies has scooped two major industry awards from O2.

It is the second consecutive year that Lamberhurst-based Active Digital has received both the customer service and digital excellence awards from the O2 network.

Established 20 years ago, the company specialises in providing mobile, fixed lines, mobile forms and purpose built apps for businesses throughout the UK and Ireland.

Challenges Company Director Jo Wimble -Groves (right) said: “We are thrilled to receive these accolades from O2. As an organisation, we have always embraced the digital shifts in technology.

“We want to be the ‘go-to’ organisation our enterprise customers think of, when they want to make

their business more mobile and digitally ready.

“We understand the challenges IT Directors are facing when focusing on mobile strategy and we are working hard to deliver some fantastic results for our customers and O2.

“These O2 awards are a seal of approval for our commitment to this digital journey and the customer experience”.

Jason Phillips of O2 commented “These awards represent a significant shift in the way we work as we become more intentional in our focus on customer support and digital knowledge and expertise.

“Thank you for your continued support and hard work.

We will continue to work closely with all our partners to deliver above our customers’ expectations”.

Cripps advises on mega-merger

Chairman appointed

A NEW global media agency has been launched with support from law firm Cripps.

Local Planet brings together leading agencies from around the world with a combined billing of some £7billion. The formation of the multi-national consortium involved equity

PANORAMIC Wealth Management has added the services of Duncan Fry to the firm for the role of Chairman of the Investment Committee.

A member of the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute, Mr Fry has 30 years of experience in the industry, including long stints as a Director at both Fidelity and Morgan Stanley Quilter.

swaps between the new umbrella body and its founding members – a model believed to be the first of its kind. The complex negotiations leading to the successful launch took a year to complete and drew on Cripps for advice on corporate, commercial and competition law.

BUSINESS IN BRIEF

Dividend boost for palm oil investors following £50m sale SHARES in Tunbridge Wells-based firm M.P Evans received a boost last week after the company announced its intention to sell its 34 per cent stake in an Australian beef-cattle company for £54million.

The company said it has decided to focus on its core business of Indonesian palm oil.

M.P. Evans will be divesting its stake in North Australian Pastoral Co (NAPCo) to the Queensland Investment Corp at a price of approximately £9.40 per share The firm said it will use the sale proceeds for its capital investment programme in respect of its unplanted areas of land in Indonesia, as well as prospective investment in new sustainable land.

Following tax and the cost of professional advice, the firm expects to receive net proceeds of £44million.

Subject to completion of the sale, M.P. Evans will also consider paying a special dividend of 5 pence per share.

Chairman Peter Hadsley-Chaplin said: “The group’s focus has increasingly been on Indonesian palm oil, which has consistently delivered profitable growth, and proceeds from the sale will enable the group to achieve greater economies of scale.

“The board continues to believe that the long-term prospects for Indonesian palm oil remain favourable.”

Shares in the company closed up nearly four per cent to close at 439.75 pence.

LOCAL NEWS 

I PREDICT A RIOT The Kaiser Chiefs hit the stage

15

RENDEZVOUS Singer Craig David wows the crowd

FEEL THE LOVE First up The Feeling warm up the guests

Music festival leads birthday celebrations Bewl Water saw its very own ‘mini-Glastonbury’ music festival at the weekend with live performances by The Feeling, Kaiser Chiefs and Craig David IT ALL happened when the Markerstudy Group celebrated its 15th birthday by staging the ‘MSG Fest’.

Markerstudy, one of the largest employers in

Kent and a Sunday Times Best Company to Work For, recently purchased Bewl Water.

It worked in partnership with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent Police to ensure the spectacular adhered to safety and noise guidelines.

GIVE US A SPIN All the fun of the fair

‘We throw one hell of a birthday party!’

More than 3,500 employees, family and friends enjoyed dragon boat racing across the reservoir, fairground rides, face painting and even a petting zoo.

A thousand revellers camped and ‘glamped’, and there were street food stalls serving free food, drink and £10,000 worth of ice cream.

Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director and one of the founders of the group, said: “MSG Fest was born out of a desire to create our own, local festival for staff and friends, executed on a magnificent scale.

“We’ve already far exceeded our own expectations in the last 15 years and we wanted to give something back to the people who helped us get here – our staff, their families who have supported them and our esteemed friends.”

Markerstudy controls 55 brands including Zenith Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance, Auto Windscreens and One Media, which publishes this newspaper.

It has a turnover of more than £2billion and employs 4,000 staff across 95 properties.

Mr Humphreys added: “We can’t wait to see where the next 15 years takes us but, for now, we can say that we throw one hell of a birthday party!”

WITH BELLS ON Camping and ‘glamping’ in bell tents

Markerstudy has a reputation for sharing its business success. In the last five years alone, the Board of Directors and staff have raised and donated more than £2million to national and regional charities.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

16  PEOPLE

Tincknell takes the fast lane as he faces his biggest challenge…

What does it take to compete at Le Mans, one of the most famous, gruelling races in motorsport?

Adam Hignett talks to Harry Tincknell, driver for the Frant-based 24-hour champions Jota Sport AT THE age of 24, Harry Tincknell has already gained a reputation as one of the most soughtafter drivers in endurance motorsport.

Two years ago he won the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans - in his first year with Jota Sport.

“That was the highlight of my career so far. It was such a buzz to cross the finish line knowing that 250,000 people had come to watch,” he said.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better debut.”

Harry has remained with the team, competing in the European Le Mans series in the LMP2 category which caters for privately run teams, unlike the manufacturer class of LMP1.

It was by chance that he got into racing at all.

Unlike many young drivers, his family had few ties to motorsport. He discovered his passion for speed while on holiday as a child.

“When I was seven we went on holiday and opposite the hotel was a go-karting track. I ended up doing that all day, every day for the entire trip.”

Born and raised in Exeter but now living in London, Harry was given his first kart for his eighth birthday and by the age of 11 he was competing in Karts at a national level. For the

Wednesday 11th May 2016

‘When I was seven we went on holiday and opposite the hotel was a go-karting track, I ended up doing that all day’ next five years he raced across Europe and then on the global stage.

He soon outgrew karting, winning numerous podium positions in Formula Renault – one

SHARING A JOKE Jota partner David Clark (left) with Harry Tincknell of several feeder categories for Formula One – before moving up to Formula Three in 2011.

However, he admits that none of these achievements would have been possible if his family had not supported him: “Like in many sports you have to start out with family funding before you can prove yourself and get sponsored.

“In this regard I have been very lucky, as motorsport is not cheapest thing to get into. But I have been sponsored to some degree since I was 16 and have several of my original sponsors still backing me.”

His talent was spotted by the triple 24 Hours of Le Mans winner and ex-Formula One driver Allan McNish, who has mentored Harry throughout his career since karting.

It is a bond which Harry describes as ‘invaluable’, adding: “There is no one better to get advice from than him.”

McNish was not alone in noticing Harry’s

potential and in 2014 he was given his first break in endurance racing when he was signed up by Jota Sport.

“My aim was to make a name for myself and I was lucky to start talks with a professional and successful team like Jota, who signed me up.

“Of course, that was the year we won 24 Hours of Le Mans and came second overall in the European Championship, so it was a great start for me and I was racing among the best.”

Like most sports the highs are often punctured by lows, one of which was watching his team mate and Jota co-owner Simon Dolan crash at Silverstone in 2014.

“It was horrific to witness and it does make you think about the dangers. Luckily he got out of it relatively unscathed.

“It was also sad because until that point we had been winning the race.”

A second low point came in September last year, when the team were favourites to win the Championship after coming first at the Paul Ricard circuit in the south of France.

However, three hours after the chequered flag, and with spirits on a high, post-race scrutiny found that a logistical error by the team meant one of their three drivers had remained in the car less than two minutes longer than the

PEOPLE 

‘My aim was to make a name for myself and I was lucky to start talks with a professional and successful team like Jota’

90-minute maximum.

Due to the error, the team incurred a 45-second penalty on their time, pushing them to third in the penultimate race of the year and ultimately destroying their hopes of winning the Championship.

“It was heartbreaking,” admits Harry. “We had been on the podium and walked off the track as the unassailable champions but ultimately we came third overall and only three points behind the victors.

“But the pain has been turned into determination to win the title and we are going about it in an aggressive way.”

The team got off to a flying start in the current season after coming first at Six Hours of Silverstone last month.

Despite qualifying fourth for the race, it was only one lap before Harry had taken the team into first place, a demonstration of his ability as a driver.

His talents are based as much on mentality as physical fitness. “I just keep my mind clear when racing because I always drive best

when I am not thinking.

“As soon as I see the lights change for the start of the race, I have a silent thought process. The moment you start thinking about people in front or behind, you make mistakes or do something silly.

“You have to be in the zone in order to push the car to the limit.”

“In terms of doing a 24-hour race, though, there is not masses you can do before hand to prepare for it.

“You rely on the team’s physio and nutritionists to ensure you don’t have to think too much but I am still mentally exhausted for the next three or four days

afterwards.”

When the iconic Le Mans race began in 1923, it was not unknown for teams to use only one driver. But by the 1990s, with the speed of the cars increasing the strain of fatigue, drivers could not be at the wheel for more than four hours consecutively, and now teams use three drivers.

Although Harry says he is ‘very happy’ to carry on in endurance racing, he has not ruled out taking the ultimate step in his career.

“I may well do Formula One eventually and recently had my first go in an F1 car. But endurance racing is now of such high quality that it is no longer seen as secondary.

“The main problem with Formula One is that unless you are in the top three or four teams there is a serious lack of money so they do not necessarily chose drivers on results but on sponsorship – or big family money.

“This is not such an issue in the Le Mans series. But it all goes in cycles and I am sure when Bernie [Ecclestone, the F1 supremo] goes, money he has been taking out of the sport will start flowing back to the teams.

“So at the moment I am not too bothered about moving on. The team and I are in a really good place right now.”

17

A LITTLE BACKGROUND… WHAT IS THE 24 HOURS OF LE MANS? Established in 1923, it is the oldest active endurance race in the world.

It takes place every June in the northern French town of Le Mans, starting midafternoon on Saturday and ending 24 hours later on Sunday, with cars covering distances of over 3,000 miles. Consecutive rule changes since the 1980s mean a car must have at least three drivers, with each racing for a maximum stint of four hours at a time.

WHAT TYPE OF CARS ARE RACED? Traditionally around 50 competing cars take part in the race split between Le Mans Prototypes (LMP) and GTs (Grand Tourer), each of which have their own sub-sets. The Prototypes, designed specifically for endurance racing, are the fastest sports cars in the world after F1 and split into two classes, LMP1 and LMP2.

The first of these is the preserve of the large manufacturers such as Nissan, Audi, Porsche and Toyota. Each car has a top speed of around 210mph. In 2014, Audi disclosed its annual budget for each Le Mans season was £167million.

LMP2 is exclusively for private teams such as Jota. They have similar characteristics and appearance to their larger counterparts, but respect strict financial criteria, with a maximum cost per car of £366,000 this year.

To run each car in LMP2 costs approximately £1,000 per hour and a season will set a team back roughly £4 million. Top speeds in this class are around 190mph.

The GT class has a similar two-category split, with GTE Pro consisting of Ferraris, Porsches, Corvettes and Aston Martins, reaching maximum speeds of 185mph, and GTE Am made up of smaller teams with amateur drivers.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

18  NATIONAL NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

Breakthrough in fight against breast cancer THE LATEST results from a study defining breast cancer as a collection of 10 different diseases have shed light on why some patients are more likely to die than others.

Scientists involved in the Metabric study identified 40 mutated genes that cause tumour progression, only a fraction of which were previously known to play a role in breast cancer development.

The findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, are expected to help pave the way for new targeted treatments and diagnostic tests.

Nuclear deterrent A SURVIVOR of the Hiroshima bomb has travelled to the UK to meet Scottish National Party MSP Bill Kidd, the co-president of the international group Parliamentarians for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (PNND), and new Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell, as part of her campaign against nuclear weapons.

Setsuko Thurlow, aged 84, was 13 when American forces dropped an atomic bomb on her home city in August 1945.

Silence of the lambs POLICE have posted a photograph of three stolen lambs on Twitter in an effort to trace their owner. The animals were rescued following a car chase in the early hours of Tuesday. Three male Romanian nationals, aged 22, 27 and 28, who abandoned the vehicle in the Yardley area of Birmingham, leaving the livestock inside, were later arrested on suspicion of theft.

SATs saboteur blamed for the leaked test paper A ‘ROGUE marker’ has been blamed for DEMONSTRATION the attempted leak of a test paper before it Teachers and parents was taken by 11-year-olds across England, have protested according to the Department for against SATs tests Education (DfE).

It claimed that the Self-Assessment Tests are being sabotaged in an “active campaign” by individuals who are opposed to Government reforms.

Ministers have launched an investigation to identify who is responsible for the leak.

The answers to the Key Stage Two grammar, punctuation and spelling test appeared on a website for the Pearson exam board on Monday evening, where they remained in a password-protected area for several hours before being removed.

Schools Minister Nick Gibb told the Commons that the paper had been ‘mistakenly uploaded’, but that someone with access to the secure site had then leaked it to the media.

“Pearson were informed that the test was on their site by markers during the course of the evening and they removed the material from the site,” he said.

“The department was separately alerted to Mr Gibb insisted that the only people who are the situation by the media and immediately permitted access to the Pearson site are markers, made contact with Pearson to establish the facts.

“During the short period that the materials were all of whom hav e a contractual obligation not to share sensitive information. live, Pearson’s records show that 93 markers, Pearson has been asked to conduct an all with the appropriate clearance, accessed the investigation into the situation. material,” he added.

“First, how did the material come to be uploaded on to the secure site in error? This was clearly a mistake which should not have been possible,” he told MPs. “Second, I have asked that all records are examined and all information interrogated so that the culprit who leaked this sensitive information can be identified.”

The leak was not judged to be significant enough to cancel Tuesday’s test, which was taken by more than half a million Year Six children across the country.

It is the second time a paper has been published online in recent weeks, and comes amid concerns about this year’s SATs papers.

Teachers and parents have suggested that a reading test taken by youngsters was so difficult, it risked demoralising pupils.

Concerns were shared on websites including

‘How did the material come to be uploaded?

This was a mistake that clearly should not have been possible’

Facebook and a Times Educational Supplement (TES) forum.

Pupils were reduced to tears and one teacher has branded the test ‘ridiculous and divisive’ because the advanced questions also risked further alienating children whose parents did not support their education at home, or those for whom English is not their first language.

Parents said their children struggled to answer questions or finish the test after doing well in previous years.

The shadow Education Secretary Lucy Powell called for an emergency review of the primary school assessment system in light of the recent breach of confidentiality.

Christine Blower, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), has described the latest leak as a ‘disaster’ for children, schools and teachers.

Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT union, said: “Given the high stakes nature of the testing for teachers and school leaders, if the integrity of the tests cannot be guaranteed then it is absolutely clear that they cannot be used to judge the performance of schools.”

Gap widens in dental health across regions A QUARTER of children start school suffering from tooth decay and one in 40 five-year-olds need to have rotten teeth removed.

But Public Health England (PHE) said their latest figures show that nationally the number has dipped to its lowest level in almost a decade – in 2008, 31 per cent of five-year-olds suffered tooth decay.

The statistics, from a survey of more than 100,000 children across the country, show significant regional variation in the rates of tooth decay among youngsters.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

In the South East, 80 per cent of five-year-olds have a clean bill of oral health but in the North West the figure stands at just 67 per cent.

Dr Sandra White, director of dental public health at PHE, said: “There is still much inequality in dental health around the country.

“Limiting sugary food and drink, supporting children to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and regular trips to the dentist will help prevent a great many more children suffering at the hands of tooth decay.

6:9 Purt~ I

Join us for a FREE

I:

From Fillers to Facelifts, Breasts to Body Contouring, our Consultant Plastic Surgeons are here for you , , I felt in safe hands at all times and am delighted with the results , , -MsSG

20 � NATIONAL NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

UNDER FIRE Shoppers covered in fake blood

Hamilton elected as leader of Assembly FORMER Conservative MP and one-time TV personality Neil Hamilton has been elected as UKIP’s new leader in the Welsh Assembly.

He re-ignited his political career last week after winning a regional seat for the Mid and West Wales region in the Senedd and just five days later successfully challenged Nathan Gill for the leadership post.

Mr Hamilton was Conservative MP for Tatton from 1983 to 1997, but his career as a Tory minister was ended by the cash-forquestions affair.

He and his wife Christine later reinvented themselves as TV personalities, appearing on a variety of shows including Have I Got News For You, I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! and Celebrity MasterChef.

Police ‘shout’ during mock attack ill-judged A STAGED terrorist attack in one of the UK’s largest shopping centres has been criticised for allowing a suicide bomber to shout ‘Allahu Akbar’ before detonating a bomb, saying it could undermine community relations.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have since issued an apology, adding that it had been ‘unacceptable’ to use the religious phrase – which means ‘God is great’ – immediately before the mock suicide bombing at Manchester’s Trafford Centre.

Greater Manchester’s Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said the operation had been marred by the ill-judged, unnecessary and unacceptable decision by organisers to have those playing the parts of terrorists to shout ‘Allahu Akbar’ before setting off their fake bombs.

‘The scenario for this exercise is based on a suicide attack by an extremist Daesh-style organisation’ The exercise involved anti-terror police armed with machine guns testing their response to a Paris or Brussels-type attack on civilians at the huge shopping centre.

Police said they had wanted to make the ‘attack’ as realistic as possible.

Commenting on the choice of words, Mr Lloyd said: “It didn’t add anything to the event, but has

the potential to undermine the great community relations we have in Greater Manchester.”

GMP’s Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan explained that the operation had been based on an attack by an extremist Daesh-style organisation, but issued a statement apologising for any offence caused.

He said: “On reflection we acknowledge that it was unacceptable to use this religious phrase immediately before the mock suicide bombing, which so vocally linked this exercise with Islam.

We recognise and apologise for the offence that this has caused.”

The drill, which saw different scenarios play out, including suicide bombers, hostagetaking and mass casualties, was to test how the emergency services respond to developing terrorist attack situations.

Mr Shewan added: “The scenario for this exercise is based on a suicide attack by an extremist Daesh-style organisation and the scenario writers have centred the circumstances around previous similar attacks of this nature.”

Throughout the exercise – codenamed Exercise Winchester Accord – explosions and gunfire could be heard.

It took place between midnight and 6am while the shopping centre was closed and was the fourth major exercise in months, coming after previous ones in London, Glasgow and Essex.

The current UK terror threat level is described as severe, meaning an attack is highly likely, according to the security services.

Save our high streets A PEER has slammed the ‘tyrannical and punitive’ parking arrangements which he argues are making it impossible for people to shop on the high street.

Former Channel 4 boss Lord Grade took a sideswipe at the difficulties faced by would-be shoppers as concerns were raised over the future of town centre retailers.

Fellow Tory peer Lord Naseby said there had been ‘a modest amount of tinkering’ by the Government to support shops on the high street.

He pointed out that 36 major chains had gone bankrupt and that thousands of other retailers had been forced to stop trading in the face of everincreasing overheads.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Lord Naseby called on ministers to consider a turnover tax rather than a property tax, which would apply to both the high street shops and online retailers.

Communities minister Baroness Williams of Trafford insisted support had been given to help the high street and that retailers had responded to changing shopping habits with the introduction of ‘click-and-collect’.

Lord Grade said: “Does the minister think there is any connection between the lack of customers in the high street and the tyrannical and punitive parking arrangements that are imposed in our streets, which make it impossible to go to the high street and spend money?”

Challenge for Countess THE Countess of Wessex is taking on a 450-mile palace to palace cycle challenge in September, which will see her ride from Edinburgh to London.

The former Kent College Pembury pupil will pedal from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Buckingham Palace on behalf of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to celebrate the scheme’s 60th anniversary.

Mayor quits as MP LONDON’S new mayor Sadiq Khan has triggered a by-election in his Tooting constituency by formally standing down as an MP. The Treasury confirmed that Mr Khan had been appointed Steward and Bailiff of the Three Hundreds of Chiltern – the archaic procedure by which MPs can quit Parliament between elections.

No to Scottish vote MORE than half of small business owners in Scotland do not want the new minority Scottish National Party Government to pursue a second vote on independence in the next five years, according to a new survey by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

Instead they want to see ministers put a stronger focus on supporting the country’s 330,000 micro businesses, employing 10 people or less, and the self-employed.

Wheelchair friendly Uber TAXI app Uber is launching its first wheelchair-accessible vehicles in London.

The company said the uberWAV option will cost the same as the standard uberX fare.

The vehicles, available from 4pm on Tuesday, are equipped with a rear-entry ramp, winch and restraints, enabling a wheelchair user to travel with one additional passenger.

Street racing in capital FORMULA One could be coming to the streets of London as early as next year, according to the sport’s billionaire supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

A proposed London Grand Prix, including sections past Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, has previously been sketched out, but plans have been held up as secondary legislation is required to allow councils to close roads for high-speed road races.

ADVERTISING FEATURE �

21

Why separation and divorce can be a civilised affair

BY STEPHEN WILMOT IF you are experiencing the anxiety and loss of a relationship ending and suffering sleepless nights worrying about the future, you are not alone. Almost 50% of all marriages end in divorce and for many it can be the most traumatic time in their lives.

Months and sometimes years are spent deciding whether to separate and then, when the decision has been made, it can take an age to pluck up the courage to take action.

Emotions run high and delays are usually down to fear of the unknown and what life will be like after the separation. Not to mention how you’ll cope financially and what you’ll tell the kids.

The truth is there is no easy way out. However, the actions you take now and the choices you make will have a big impact on your new life.

Your future is in your hands. You can choose to be reactive to your situation or you can be proactive and take the lead and put a stop to the fighting, anger and hurt.

Divorce and separation is a life

Our service is confidential,

changing event and mistakes

discreet and bespoke to each

can be costly both emotionally

client and we will never disclose

and financially and you must be

your information to others. Out of

prepared to invest in order to

hours appointments are available

secure your future. To take control

if required.

you need information and advice

For a limited period I am

from an experienced and trusted

offering a selected number of

advisor which will allow you to

potential clients an opportunity

make informed decisions about

to meet with one of the family

your future.

solicitors in my team for a free

My dedicated team are handpicked for their experience

initial consultation to discuss the options available.

working with people who are

Due to high demand I am only able

going through a relationship

to offer 20 appointments this month

breakdown. They are all members

and I know that the appointments

of Resolution which means that

will book up very quickly.

they have the legal experience

Choosing the right legal team is

required to give you the best

key to your emotional and financial

advice and are committed to

future so contact us today to see

solving your problems in a

how we can help you achieve the

conciliatory way if possible –

outcome you want.

saving you the emotional drain of the legal court battle and the legal fees that go with it.

They understand the emotional pressure and stress you are going through and they can help ease the pain and will work with you to achieve the best outcome possible for you to move on with your life.

For further information and to apply for a FREE CONSULTATION just complete the coupon and post it to the address below.

Alternatively, call or email us today quoting reference TWT60516 Telephone: 01892 526442 or email

FREE CONSULTATION

times@keenemarsland.co.uk

Name ...............................................................................................................

Children should always come first when a family separates.

Hey! We‛re part When families break up, children can feel very isolated, puzzled and worried about why Mum and Dad are not getting on and what might happen to the family. It is easy to overlook how badly the children can be effected when you are caught up in the emotional hurt and turmoil.

Tunbridge Wells Law firm, Keene Marsland are only too aware of these issues and challenges. They have produced ‘Hey! We’re part of it too!’, a children’s guide to help them understand what

happens when their parents separate and divorce. It is so important to reassure the children that they are as important as ever and to help them realise that it is not their fault.

‘Hey! We’re part of it too!’ retails at £4.99, but during May we are offering Times of Tunbridge Wells readers a free copy of the guide to the first 50 applicants.

To order your free copy , please call Keene Marsland Solicitors on 01892 526442 , or email – times@keenemarsland.co.uk and quote reference TWT60516.

The right legal team is key to your emotional and financial future. Family Law Solicitor Teresa Payne.

of it too!

............................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................

Address ........................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................

Tel No ............................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................

Email ................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................. .............................................................................................................................

Keene Marsland Solicitors, 6 Clanricarde Gardens, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1PH

When families break up A young persons guide

Appointments available in Tunbridge Wells, Haywards Heath, Edenbridge, London, Reading and Windsor

Keene Marsland is a trading name of Parfitt Cresswell. Parfitt Cresswell is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority . No 71480

Wednesday 11th May 2016

22  BUSINESS NEWS

Terrorist attacks hit easyJet sales BOTTOM LINE Fares will remain low

LOW-COST carrier easyJet has suffered a halfyear loss after recent terror attacks saw some passengers stay away and rivals step up the pace of competition.

The no-frills airline posted losses of £24million for the six months to the end of March against profits of £7million a year earlier, but said its bottom line was hit by a £33million foreign exchange rate impact.

It said sales suffered in the wake of November’s deadly attacks in Paris, which knocked 2.7 per cent off revenues per seat in the first half of the year, while the suspension of flights on routes to the popular Egyptian tourist destination of Sharm

el-Sheikh following the Russian airliner crash reduced revenues by another 1.3 per cent.

Half-year revenues per seat were left 6.6 per cent lower overall at £51.29 and easyJet warned that trading would remain tough in its third quarter as demand continues to be impacted by the terrorist bombing at Brussels airport in March, which killed 16 people.

It said the decline in revenues per seat would worsen, to a fall of around 7 per cent, with the early timing of Easter also taking its toll on sales.

The group is likewise battling against increased competition from rivals such as Ryanair, with the sharp falls in the price of oil seeing a surge in lowcost travel as fares fall across the board.

But the group said it was a robust performance against difficult conditions, with consumers remaining ‘resilient’.

“Demand for air travel continues to grow, despite recent disruptive events,” it said.

On an underlying basis, and with the foreign exchange hit stripped out, easyJet posted interim pre-tax profits of £5million.

Airlines often register a loss in the traditionally weaker winter period, and easyJet’s £7million profit a year ago was a rare first-half result.

It offered some cheer to holidaymakers as it said air fares would remain low over the summer, having fallen by 6 per cent year-on-year in the first half.

The group said it had seen its ‘best ever’ ski season, while sunseekers also gave it a boost, with total half-year revenues up 0.3 per cent to £1.8billion.

Carolyn McCall, Chief Executive of easyJet, said: “EasyJet has delivered a robust financial performance during the half year despite the well-publicised external events.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Virgin at the double

£1billion target for C4

VIRGIN Media claims it has seen a record start to the year as a jump in broadband customers helped offset a hit to its TV arm after recent price increases.

The group, which was bought by Liberty Global in 2013, said it had more than doubled the number of new internet customers to 67,000 in the quarter The group is leading a campaign to deliver ultrafast broadband speeds across the UK – dubbed Project Lightning – which recently saw it throw down the gauntlet to rival BT with plans to lay a million fibre-optic broadband lines direct to homes and business premises in the next three years.

CHANNEL 4 has unveiled a record year of revenues and reported a financial surplus of £26million.

The broadcaster said revenues rose to £979million in 2015 compared with £938million a year earlier, driven by a strong advertising market.

The firm said it is targeting £1billion in 2016.

Channel 4’s viewing share rose 1 per cent across the country, rising to 8 per cent during peak hours.

The channel’s share of viewers in the 16-34 age group was up 7 per cent in peak hours. Across the whole portfolio, Channel 4 increased peak-time viewing by 2 per cent over 2015.

Bovis stays buoyant

Hot Chocolat debut

BOVIS Homes has brushed off concerns that the EU referendum is causing uncertainty in the housing market.

The company has many new plans on the drawing board and claims demand from buyers remains strong due to access to mortgage finance.

The housebuilder says the forthcoming EU referendum ‘has had no discernible impact on our business, with strong demand across all our operating areas’.

In February Bovis reported a 20 per cent rise in annual pre-tax profit to £160million, driven by record sales of 3,934 homes.

Revenue increased 17 per cent to £946.5million and Bovis hiked its annual dividend by 14 per cent to 40p a share, which was set to be approved at its AGM yesterday (Tuesday).

SHARES in Hotel Chocolat jumped by more than a quarter on the company’s first day of trading on the London market this week.

The luxury chocolate maker launched shares on the London Stock Exchange’s Alternative Investment Market for young companies at 148p each, and they jumped 26 per cent in early trading to a high of 197p, valuing the business at more than £200million.

The company raised £55.5million through an initial public offering – with £12million of that sum earmarked for upgrading its manufacturing operations, opening new stores and growing online sales.

The group was founded in 1993 and runs 81 stores, a hotel in St Lucia and restaurants in London and in Leeds.

FORDECOSPORT DON'T BE A SHEEP

Lifestyl@ord

TONBRIDGE - 01732 758726 • TUNBRIDGE WELLS - 01892 739131 WWW.LIFESTYLEFORD.CO.UK

24 � WORLD NEWS

‘Peaceful’ town in shock after station stabbings A GERMAN man has been arrested after one person was killed and three others injured in a knife attack in the early hours of Tuesday morning at a railway station near Munich.

Witnesses claim the assailant shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’ (Arabic for God is great) during the stabbings. Police said the 27-year-old suspect used a 10cm knife during the attack on several people at Grafing Bahnhof.

“We can say very little at the moment about the background to the attack,” said KarlHeinz Segerer, a spokesman for Bavaria’s state criminal police office, “but there were politically motivated comments on the perpetrator’s part.”

Police and prosecutors said a 50-year-old man died from his injuries. The other victims were men aged 43, 55 and 58.

The mayor of the small Bavarian town where the incident took place says local people are deeply shaken by the crime.

Grafing Mayor Angelika Obermayr said: “Something like this is absolutely new and shakes people deeply. Otherwise they only know this kind of thing from television.”

She added: “That it could happen here is absolutely stupefying.”

She described Grafing as “an absolutely peaceful little Bavarian town”.

Bavaria’s top security official said investigators have no indications that the suspect had an Islamic extremist motive.

He says the German suspect apparently had psychological problems and drug issues.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Fire city evacuees heading for home THE Canadian city ravaged by a massive wildfire has been reprieved after cold temperatures and light rain stabilised the blaze.

Fire Chief Darby Allen said 85 per cent of Fort McMurray remains intact, including the city centre, and Alberta’s premier Rachel Notley said officials hope to provide a schedule within two weeks for thousands of evacuated residents to return home.

However, water is currently undrinkable in Fort McMurray and more than 250 power company workers are trying to restore the grid and assess the gas infrastructure.

About 2,400 homes and buildings were destroyed in Canada’s main oil sands city, but firefighters managed to save 25,000 others, including the hospital, municipal buildings and FIRE DAMAGE every school.

Devastation at Ms Notley had her first direct Fort McMurray look at the devastation in Fort McMurray on Monday after cold temperatures and light rain stabilised the massive wildfire to a point where officials could begin planning to get thousands of evacuated residents back.

She said: “This city was surrounded by an ocean of fire only a few days ago but Fort McMurray and the surrounding communities have been saved and they will be rebuilt.”

The break in the weather left officials optimistic they have

reached a turning point in controlling the massive wildfire. The temperature dipped to 7C on Monday after a week in which the region had been ­unseasonably warm.

The forest surrounding the road into the town was still smouldering and there were abandoned cars.

Mr Allen said of the fire: “This was a beast. It was an animal. It was a fire like I’ve never seen.”

More than 88,000 people have left Fort McMurray since the fire broke out last Tuesday in the heart of Canada’s oil sands region.

No deaths or injuries have been reported from the fire, but it has forced as much as a third of Canada’s oil output offline and is expected to impact an economy already hurt by the fall in oil prices.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Former mayors face mass murder trial TWO former Rwandan mayors have gone on trial in Paris for allegedly inciting and taking a leading part in the mass killing of ethnic Tutsis during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The men, who deny any involvement in the murders, face up to life in prison if convicted.

Tite Barahirwa, 64, and Octavien Ngenzi, 58, are both accused of genocide and crimes against humanity over the massacre of some 2,000 Tutsis who had sought refuge in a church in the eastern town of Kabarondo.

Kidnapped son rescued A JOINT raid by US and Afghan forces has rescued the son of a former Pakistani prime minister from a three-year-long Taliban captivity in Afghanistan.

Ali Hiader Gilani, the son of Pakistan’s former PM Yusuf Raza Gilani, was found during the raid in Ghazni province. He was kidnapped in May 2013, several days before the general elections in his central Pakistan hometown of Multan.

Bison makes comeback

PHOTO: Ryan Remiorz/The Canadian Press via AP

THE bison, which was almost hunted to extinction in the United States, has become the official national mammal of the country under legislation signed by President Barack Obama.

Supporters of the legislation said the recognition will elevate the stature of the bison to that of the bald eagle, long the national emblem, and bring greater attention to recovery efforts for the species.

Supported by

Friday 13th • Saturday 14th • Sunday 15th May 2016 12 - 5pm

10am - 5pm

10am - 4pm

26 � LETTERS

And another thing…

The Times of Tunbridge Wells and the Times of Tonbridge always want to hear your feedback, whether on reports we have printed or any other issues you think we should know about. Email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or write to the Editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU

Council elections: Candidates were just dark horses

We prize our democracy, yet we are lazy about elections – and some of those standing as local councillors are the laziest of the lot about telling us who they are – which could explain why the rest of us can’t be bothered to vote.

There were 67 candidates standing for 16 out of 48 seats on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Bus pass: Disconcerting attitude

In your article ‘Bus pass price hike’(April 27) Matthew Balfour, KCC Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, is quoted as saying the 80 per cent increase in a Young Person’s Travel Pass, after striking a deal with the local bus operators, was still ‘excellent value for money’.

This after a period of at least 12 months of near zero inflation figures along with a dramatic decrease in the price of fuel. I wonder what the price hike would have been had it not been a year of high inflation and soaring fuel costs! Rather a disconcerting attitude from a member of the KCC. Allan Dell Tunbridge Wells

EU: That sixth form debate

While those Bennett Memorial sixth formers who expressed their support (April 27) for staying in the EU may have a degree of theoretical knowledge of the issue I suspect that, should we remain members, when they encounter the practicalities of life they may change their minds. Once they find that, inter alia, decently paid jobs are at a premium thanks to massive competition from those entering from the EU, that the housing stock is completely insufficient to allow them to find affordable accommodation, and that registering with a GP and later finding effective maternity care are major problems thanks to excessive demand

Where I live we had five candidates yet were told absolutely nothing about them! I couldn’t find any information on the internet, either. So what are we meant to do – vote blind? Pin the tail on the donkey? Very democratic!

I laughed at the person on social media who said all we are told about candidates is their name, address and whether they belong to a political party (the council isn’t allowed to publish anything else), so are we meant to knock on THEIR doors to find out more? She also said party politics were totally irrelevant at local level and I and several others agreed.

What’s important is choosing councillors who are going to be good for the area, so there needs to be somewhere voters can go to find out who they are and what they want to achieve locally.

Otherwise, why are they standing?

There are websites where they can add their information and I think the Library should be allowed to hold information on them, too. Party politics are also irrelevant when it comes to Police & Crime Commissioners. But that is an argument for another day…

Margaret Miller Via email they may rue the day the UK chose the status quo.

They will also find that, by the time they can take an active part in politics, our democracy will have been neutered and there will no longer be any way to improve the situation via the ballot box.

Colin Bullen Via email

Sketchbook: How very slick

May I commend you on your new look Council Sketchbook. I always enjoy reading this type of story, but when I saw (May 4) the illustrations of key council members instead of the usual head shots I thought how very slick it all looked. And knowing a couple of these people by sight I have to say the illustrator has captured their characteristics perfectly!

Elizabeth Bradshaw Via email

Mayoral year: Our thanks

As we near the end of our Mayoral year, we would like to say a big thank you to the many voluntary and charitable organisations and to the residents of the borough of Tonbridge & Malling whom we have had the pleasure to visit and meet. We have greatly enjoyed our visits to the schools who have given us such a warm welcome, and for the entertainment provided by the pupils.

Thank you also to those businesses who have

supported our charitable aims during the year, your support has been greatly appreciated.

We always thought Tonbridge & Malling was a great Borough to live in, and now we have no doubt! We wish our successors – the new Mayor and Mayoress, Mark and Julie Rhodes – as rewarding a year as we have had.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Tonbridge & Malling, Owen and Christine Baldock

Town Hall : A Victorian workhouse

There seems to be some vague hope of the old cinema site being transformed from an ‘eyesore’ into a spanking new development – after 16 years and a lot of grumbling from the council. So is it not perhaps time for the council to think about making their own headquarters across the road look a bit smarter?

The seven buildings that make up the Town Hall complex are perfectly all right in their own way but do look a bit dark and foreboding. Perhaps that’s a look which the council think is appropriate for the representatives of ‘disgusted of Tunbridge Wells’.

We hear that there will be a million pounds to spend on the area around the war memorial to make it more of a pedestrian experience, which is a great idea because at the moment it just feels like one big bus shelter.

But perhaps a lick of paint for the buildings behind it might enhance the whole town centre experience even more. Then they might look a bit less like a hospital or, dare one say it, a Victorian workhouse?

Peter Sampson Via email

Kent: The Guardian of England

It’s during these heady days of spring that I really realise how lucky I am to live in such a beautiful part of the world. The sunshine and the warm weather transform the area into the Garden of England that it is supposed to be.

But did you know that the real nickname of the county should be the ‘Guardian of England’, as the traditional first line of defence for the UK? On that particular job description, we may be falling down on our duties in the current climate of fear about refugees and our European future.

Rosalind Blake Via emai

Cinema site: Not holding breath

Once again the old cinema site is making the news after yet another change of ownership. Whilst I would like to be optimistic about its prospects, over a decade and a half of disappointment means I won’t hold my breath.

Richard Elmes Via email

We will always do our best to publish all letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter because of its length or content.

Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Calverley INTERESTING times these days in the office of Tonbridge & Malling MP Tom Tugendhat.

Seems there’s a difference of opinion over whether we should remain in Europe or sever all links. The former Lt Colonel is very much in favour of staying put. Word is one his closest henchmen is very much in favour of pulling out. Interesting chats in that office then.

CALVERLEY’S heart goes out to those who produced a nice little promotional brochure.

It talked up events on The Pantiles which is great. Trouble is the gremlins got to work and the proofreader missed a typo. Instead of talking about a date for the Pantiles Market it published a date for the ‘Panties Market’.

There but for the grace...

NOT sure what, if anything, you should read into this but... Himself was driving round the M25 when two vehicles raced past hitting 80mph plus. They did not spot the police car in the near lane. Blue lights flashing it pulls out, gives chase end eventually stops one of the vehicles, A new Range Rover. The other vehicle is ignored. It was a Ford Fiesta.

BANK MANAGER calls office. “Hello Mr Calverley [not real name] we would like to talk to you about how we can better serve you.”

Himself asks if the information can be emailed to him. Bank Manager: “I don’t have access to outside email.” Really? Bank Manager “Yes, if I did I would be answering queries [from customers] all day and wouldn’t get any work done.” No need to ask what’s wrong with our high street banks then…

LADIES of Tunbridge Wells are weeping. The EU millionaire who tried to be a friend to all has moved on. He no longer resides in his luxury flat or frequents the ever popular Bar and Grill. Calverley has seen one of his parting texts, in the form of a proposition, to a fair maiden. He certainly has an interesting grasp of the English language.

PARANOID is the only way to describe some of our social media-loving friends. Calverley was sitting quietly sipping port in his favourite ale house when he overheard the following. Male: “You’ll never guess what happened when I was online being critical of the Government and its policies on immigration.” Female: “What happened, what happened…”Male: “My computer suddenly blew up and stopped working.”

Female: “So…” Male: “Obviously they didn’t like me being critical and retaliated.” Get a life.

Chin, chin readers

Education in association with:

www.brightyoungthings.co.uk

EDUCATION �

Census reveals boarding still a popular choice for pupils THE results of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) Census for 2016 have just been published and they show that private education is thriving once again after a relatively difficult period following the 2008 recession, and that more than a third of schools now have boarders.

The ISC Census illustrates where independent schools sit within the UK’s education landscape and is regarded by government and policymakers as an authoritative source of data.

Samantha Price, Headmistress at one of Kent’s top independent residential schools, Benenden, commented: “We believe in offering every girl a complete education in which she achieves her academic potential but also grows as an individual. We want her to relish all that this 24/7 school life has to offer so that she leaves us as confident, positive young woman truly prepared for her future. While other girls at other schools are sitting on a bus travelling between the school and home, Benenden girls are busy playing sport or taking part in the

Model United Nations programme or devising their own theatre productions.”

Other key findings in the census include the fact there are now 1,280 ISC schools compared to 1,271 in 2008, with a total of 518,432 pupils.

This is the highest number since records began in 1974.

Fee increases have remained at their lowest since 1994 at just 3.5% and 1,112 schools now partner up with state ones.

EDUCATION IN BRIEF

Star turns on the stage for drama students ST GREGORY’S annual talent show Starlight proved to be another popular one with students demonstrating a variety of musical skills at the event which took place last month.

Organised by the school’s sixth formers, there were 27 performances in total, staged by 60 students of ages ranging from 11 to 18.

St Gregory’s Head of School Sean McQuillan said: “This was our best ever Starlight. It is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their talents and they really are something else on stage.”

New head appointment NIK PEARS has been announced as the next Preparatory School Head at Kent College.

Currently in the same position at Sevenoaks Preparatory School, Mr Pears, who is also an Ambassador for the charity We See Hope which works with AIDS orphans in sub-Saharan Africa, will start his new role at the Independent Girls’ school in Pembury later this year.

‘We want girls to relish this 24/7 school life’ The average pupil to teacher ratio is under 9 to 1 and 30% of students are from a minority background.

The number of single sex boys’ and girls’ schools remains virtually unchanged.

Julie Robinson, General Secretary of ISC, said: “The numbers recorded in this year’s census are very stable and contradict claims by some that private education is in some sort of peril. In many areas the stability of these figures shows just how remarkable our schools really are.”

27

Bennett’s sweet music

HOME FROM HOME Benenden girls enjoy boarding

THIS Saturday the Royal Tunbridge Wells Male Orpheus choir will perform at Trinity theatre.

The choral group has invited Bennett Memorial School Music Academy to accompany them on stage.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

28 n WEDDING FEATURE

Location, location and As a homage to their early days together, Laura Taylor and new husband Gavin sprinkled their wedding with special touches celebrating wonderful memories as they look to their future…

Describe your partner in five words: Thoughtful, Caring, Funny, Soul mate, Hardworking How did you and your husband meet?

My husband and I met through match.com. Our first date, we chose to meet on Brighton Pier. Since our special moment Brighton has always had a place in our heart. We incorporated the fun of our meeting in Brighton in our wedding.

Tell us about the proposal…

Our special moment happened on our five year anniversary Saturday November 21st 2015 we woke on the morning and there and been a flurry of snow leaving a pretty scattering on the ground, which was romantic in itself we felt. Much to my surprise Gavin booked us a spa day at our favourite spa we had visited few times. We were having a wonderful relaxing day, following our champagne afternoon tea we decided to take a stroll in the beautiful grounds, once we had reached a perfect viewing point to admire the views, snow started to flurry once more, I turned around and Gavin was on one knee presenting my stunning engagement ring. Wow, what a moment to remember, the whole day felt truly magical.

Where did you get married and how did you choose the venue?

The Barn pub and restaurant, Tunbridge Wells was our choice of venue.

On our first dates of getting to know each other, we spent many an evening relaxing here chatting and laughing the hours away. With its intimate charm and exclusivity of the wedding day along with the central location in Royal Tunbridge Wells where we have set up home together, it felt the perfect place for us.

Tell us about your big day and some of its key highlights…

Our day had a wonderfully relaxed feel, with lots of organizing going on behind the scenes by Philippe and his very professional team at The Barn in Tunbridge Wells.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

WEDDING SHOWER Laura and Gavin share a moment with their guests

WITH THE

I i al T ar t nd a Impion a tod

s 73 Pen 559 26 0189

Available in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks

C a ll

WEST KENT’S ULTIMATE PROPERTY GUIDE – FREE EVERY WEDNESDAY A MUST READ FOR THOSE LOOKING TO BUY, LET OR SELL

n a x ve s t Pl m ent y an , for nin g Fr e

eA ppo intm ent

Pretty country paradise With views over the Beult valley and bluebells! bracketts est.

New Homes

Knockout 68-acre Knockholt home boasts golf course

Captivating Kentish jetty house which dates back to 1555

Wednesday 11th May 2016

 PROPERTY SECTION

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

In my view…

Your at-a-glance guide to

Peter Conetta Managing Director of Ellis & Co, Tonbridge

Whether you’re actively planning to sell or let your home, or simply interested in your property’s value, booking a valuation is the best way of gaining an accurate and detailed assessment.

Marketing your home for the right price is essential for achieving your desired result from your sale or letting.

Although the property search portals can give you a general idea of your home’s value, they are usually based on national figures and the properties they are listing. There are, however, many factors involved and it’s worth attaining a professional valuation to ensure they are all taken into consideration.

The size of the property, its age, state of repair and location all determine the achievable asking price for a property.

Furthermore, estate agents with a strong understanding of the local area recognise current demand and supply which has a huge impact on house prices. This is essential for ensuring you do not price your property out of the market.

Your intended outcome will also determine the appropriate asking price.

You might be looking to sell quickly; you might have renovated a property for investment; or you might still be looking for your next home. All of these will require a different pricing strategy to ensure your property sells or lets in your preferred timescale.

Even if you’re not planning on selling or letting your property immediately, attaining a valuation can be very informative. You can find out about your local marketplace and what the future looks like for the property market in the region. This will help you to decide on an appropriate time to market your property to reduce the chances of a missed opportunity.

Finally, during a valuation, your estate agent will be able to offer advice to create a strategy for selling or letting your property effectively. They will also be able to give you some invaluable tips and answer any questions you might have about the selling or lettings process. This all helps to take the stress out of putting your property on the market.

Ellis & Co, Tonbridge 01732 770077 www.tonbridge@ellisandco.co.uk Wednesday 11th May 2016

MAIDSTONE ROAD, HORSMONDEN

£218,000

UNDER £250,000 This ground floor flat is set in the heart of the village and has its own entrance and cellar. Updated by the current owners, the accommodation is beautifully presented and offers scope for further development, subject to the necessary consents.

There is a hallway, sitting room with wood burner, newly fitted kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. The cellar is divided into three chambers. Outside there is allocated parking for two cars and a communal garden.

CONTACT Barnes Kingsnorth Pembury 01892 822990 www.bkestateagents.com

ERSKINE PARK ROAD, RUSTHALL

£315,000

UNDER £350,000 This well-presented semi-detached house is in the village of Rusthall.

The accommodation comprises a living room and dining room which both have log burners, a modern fitted kitchen with underfloor heating, two double bedrooms and

a modern upstairs bathroom with separate shower cubicle. The property also benefits from double glazing, gas-fired heating and a well maintained rear garden.

CONTACT KMJ Property 01892 515188 www.kmjproperty.co.uk

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION 

great properties by price range…

TOWN ACRES, TONBRIDGE

STARBOROUGH ROAD MARSH GREEN, EDENBRIDGE

£575,000

£425,000 - £450,000 UNDER £450,000 A well-presented detached family house situated in a sought-after close just off The Ridgeway in Tonbridge.

The property offers a double-aspect living room, a kitchen which opens to a conservatory/breakfast room and a cloakroom on the ground floor, with four bedrooms (one en-suite) and a bathroom on the first floor. Outside there are front and rear gardens, parking and a garage.

CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk VALE ROAD, SOUTHBOROUGH

£715,000

UNDER £800,000 A very attractive detached period property located on a quiet road in popular Southborough. The house offers very well-presented, spacious accommodation comprising an entrance hall, living room, study, cloakroom, kitchen/dining room and superb conservatory/family room on the ground floor. There are four bedrooms, a bathroom and a shower room on the first floor and a fabulous master suite on the top floor. There is off-street parking, a garage and a lovely rear garden with a studio/workshop.

CONTACT Maddisons Residential 01892 514100 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk HARLAND WAY, BIDBOROUGH/ SOUTHBOROUGH BORDER

STARBOROUGH ROAD, MARSH GREEN, EDENBRIDGE

£835,000

£575,000

UNDER £1MILLION

UNDER £600,000 Situated in a delightful position and with an abundance of character, this attractive Grade II listed home is spacious and versatile. On the first floor there is an entrance hall, kitchen/ breakfast room, sitting room, bathroom and two bedrooms.

Upstairs there is a study area and a superb master suite with eaves access. The property has

been upgraded by the current vendors and has the benefit of a delightful partly walled garden and private parking.

CONTACT Knight Frank Sevenoaks 01732 809392 www.knightfrank.co.uk

This is an attractive family house, conveniently located and set within delightful gardens. This property features a reception hall, family room, triple-aspect sitting room, playroom/study, excellent kitchen/breakfast room, utility room and cloakroom. On the first floor there are four bedrooms (one en-suite) and a family bathroom. Externally there is driveway parking and a garage, along with beautifully landscaped gardens.

CONTACT Jackson-Stops & Staff Tunbridge Wells 01892 521700 www.jackson-stops.co.uk

Wednesday 11th May 2016

ďż˝ PROPERTY SECTION

GARLINGE ROAD SOUTHBOROUGH

ÂŁ1,195,000

Ample, impressive period home and potential annexe

T

HIS double-fronted Victorian family house is set in a convenient location in Southborough and boasts generous accommodation and a potential annexe.

The property offers a wealth of period features, including decorative coving, ceiling roses, panelled wood doors and fireplaces. With four large bay windows to the front, and a large conservatory to the rear, the home is flooded with natural light.

There is more than 3,300 sq ft of living space, which includes a sitting room, dining room, family room, excellent conservatory, cloakroom, a well-appointed kitchen with integrated appliances and a separate utility area. A cellar is divided to provide a storeroom and wine store.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Upstairs there is a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, three further bedrooms, a family bathroom and a separate WC. This versatile home also comes with the added benefit of being able to offer a separate annexe if desired. With an entrance to the rear of the garage, stairs lead up to a first floor with a bedroom, sitting room and shower room.

The pretty rear garden is mainly laid to lawn with flowerbeds, specimen trees and a raised seating area with an overhead pergola. The outside space is further enhanced by the luxury of a sunken hot tub set on decking.

To the front is parking for up to four vehicles and a large double garage.

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE � Double-fronted Victorian family house � Generous accommodation � Period features � Convenient location � Entrance hall � Sitting room � Dining room � Family room � Large conservatory � Kitchen � Utility room � Cloakroom � Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom � Three further bedrooms � Family bathroom � Separate WC � Annexe with bedroom, sitting room and shower room � Double garage

‘The property offers a wealth of period features, including decorative coving, ceiling roses, panelled wood doors and fireplaces’

� Cellar with storeroom and wine store � Parking � Lovely gardens

£1,195,000 For sale through Maddisons Residential 01892 514100 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

Wednesday 11th May 2016

£1,100,000 - £1,250,000

Maresfield Park, Uckfield

A substantial unlisted manor house (Over 4600sq.ft) situated within sought after Maresfield Park, steeped in history and renova ted to an exceptional standard throughout whilst retaining a wealth of period features.

Accommodation comprises Dual Aspect Sitting Room With Working Fireplace, Original Wood Panelling & Double Doors To The Courtyard, Recently Refurbished Kitchen/Breakfast Room With Two Sets Of Double Doors Tc The Garden & The Courtyard, Dining Room With Original Wood Panelling, Study, Mud (Utility) Room, Cloakroom, Domed Cellar, Historic Working Turret Clock, Master Bedroom With En Suite Bathroom & Nursery/Dressing Room, Guest Bedroom With En-Suite Shower Room & Dressing Room/Bedroom, Two Further Double Bedrooms, One With En Suite Shower Room, Family Bathroom, Sweeping Gravelled 'In & Out' Driveway, Electrically Operated Gates, Garage With Workshop & Store Rooms, Further Garage, Beautiful Landscaped Gardens Approx 1 Acre, Two Secluded Courtyard Gardens. Property partially attached at rear. \ ~ erT-..,...,.,.......,.....,..-.c,

,'\ S' , '

Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells

£1,850,000 - £1,950,000

An impressive and substantial detached Grade II listed Oast House set in a rural location with stunning countryside views. 4 Reception Rooms, Kitchen Breakfast Room, 3 En Suite Bedrooms, 2 Further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Detached Garage, Superb Gardens and Paddock totalling circa 3.5 Acres. Planning permission in place for a Swimming Pool and a Pool House.

Mark Cross, Tunbridge Wells

£1,200,000 - £1,250,000

A substantial and beautifully presented detach ed Lions Green house, which has been remodelled to provide a delightful family home with four/five reception rooms, vaulted entrance hall, three bedroom suites, bedroom 4, large rear terrace, private electric-gated driveway parking, detached double garage, gardens and grounds of approximately 2 acres.

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 615757 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

Tunbridge Wells

£995,000 - £1,100,000

Battle

£875,000 - £925,000

A d elightful fa mily h ouse situated in a rural loca tion between Speldhurst and Rusthall. Flexible accommodation to include Four Reception Rooms, Kitch en I Breakfas t Room, Cloakroom, Master Bed room w ith En Suite Bathroom, Three Further Double Bed rooms, Family Bathroom, Double Garage, with Workshop Circa 1 Acre.

An immaculately presented detached family home enjoying outstanding rural views within walking distance of central Battle. Accommodation includes Five Reception Rooms, Downstairs Cloakroom, Kitchen Breakfas t Room, Two En Suite Double Bed rooms, Three Further Double Bed rooms, Family Bathroom, Large Garden, Rural Views, Raised Terrace Area, Driveway and Detached Double Garage. Circa 2/3 Acre. Chain Free.

Mayfield

Burwash

£745,000 - £775,000

£700,000 - £750,000

A charming family hom e built in the 1930's providing spacious accommodation and retaining man y period fea tures. The accommodation is immaculately presented through out, and includes an Entrance H all, Draw ing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfas t Room, Utility Room, Family Room, Cloakroom, Sh ower Room, Four Bed rooms, Family Bathroom, Front & Rear Gardens, Driveway Parking, and Detached Garage.

A spacious detached chalet bungalow built in 2010 and situated in an enviable location down a private road on the historic National Trust Bateman's Estate, with beautiful unspoilt views over the surrounding countryside. Three Bedrooms, Two/Three Reception Rooms, Kitchen/Dining Room, Three Bath/Shower Rooms and Utility Room . Integral Garage, Driveway Parking and Attractive Gardens.

Burwash

Bexhill-on-Sea

£700,000 - £750,000

An attractive detached family h ome se t within mature gardens w ith far reaching views over unspoilt countryside to Brightling. Accom odation comprises Four Bedrooms, Three Reception Rooms, Two Bath/ Shower Rooms, Kitchen, Utility Room and Superb Conservatory. Driveway Parking and Garaging. The gardens are pred ominantly laid to lawn w ith ornamental pond, es tablish ed planting and vegetable patch.

£695,000 - £725,000

A substantial detached fa mily home w ith excellent reception space. Accommodation comprises Three Reception Rooms, Two Double Bedrooms w ith En Suites, Three Further Double Bed rooms, Galleried Landing, Double Garage and Delightful Landscaped Gardens with Summerhouse. The property is loca ted in the much favoured West Bexhill area of Collington, w ithin a short walk of local shops/amenities.

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 615757 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

£400,000 - £425,000

Tunbridge Wells

Spacious four bedroom semi detached house in Tunbridge Wells. Open plan sitting/dining room and modern kitchen. Stairs rise from the entrance hall landing where three double bedrooms and a smaller single bedroom can be found along with modern family bathroom. Viewing highly recommended.

unbridge Wells

f'\ttractive mid-terrace Victorian house. The property is in excellent condition including a renovated basement and has to be viewed to truly appreciate the standard throughout. Subject to obtaining the relevant permissions there is also scope to convert the loft. Situated close to the town centre and local amenities. ~

£395,000- £415,000

Tunbridge Wells

.......... !- ....

. . ................ .

!

•

..

!

The spacious accommodation comprises of large entrance hall, Stunning large living room with formal dining area and character features, separate kitchen with seating area, two large bedrooms and a further bedroom/study. Externally the property benefits from three off road parking spaces and a large communal garden.

I

Spacious detached family home which occupies an exceptional elevated corner plot position with views. The property has gas central heating and double glazing throughout. Outside to the front of the property is a driveway which provides off road parking with gated side access to the rear garden. The rear garden boasts .. !"'

Unique two double bedroom detached property which occupies a highly convenient position for the mainline High Brooms railway station. The property which has been fully refurbished offers superb open plan living accommodation along with two en-suite bedrooms.

£365,000 - £385,000

l

..

£300,000 - £325,000

Tunbridge Wells

.. •

.. ....

£325,000 - £350,000

Tunbridge Wells

Attractive split level three bedroom apartment in a very desirable location with large garden to the rear.

The accommodation comprises of spacious living room with large bay window and fireplace, modern kitchen and two linked bedrooms on the ground level. Downstairs you will find an additional double . ... ... . .. . .. ..

. ... .. ..

.

.

..

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 515300 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

Tunbridge Wells

£425,000 - £450,000

Tunbridge Wells

£500,000

Charming Grade II listed chocolate box cottage which occupies a convenient position for the Pantiles and mainline railway station. The accommodation which is arranged over three levels offers exceptional period features such as exposed ceiling and wall timbers, wood burner and wood floorings.

Four bedroom townhouse located in one of Royal Tunbridge Wells premier locations within reach of the vibrant Pantiles, historic High Street, mainline railway station and Tunbridge Wells common. The property offers well proportioned and flexible accommodation which is arranged over three floors.

Tunbridge Wells

Tunbridge Wells

£575,000-£595,000

Four bedroom townhouse located in one of Royal Tunbridge Wells' premier locations within reach of the vibrant Pantiles, historic High Street, mainline railway station and Tunbridge Wells common. The property offers well proportioned and flexible accommodation which is arranged over three floors. Viewing recommended.

Tunbridge Wells

£500,000 - £525,000

Spacious four bedroom family home with impressive triple aspect conservatory with under floor heating which is located in the popular St. Johns area. Property offers great open plan reception room space, stunning kitchen/breakfast room The first floor accommodation includes four bedrooms and bathroom.

£275,000 - £295,000

Two bedroom terraced house which occupies a superb position on the doorstep of the beautiful recently re developed Grosvenor and Hilbert park. The High Brooms mainline railway station is within walking distance as are numerous restaurants, bars and retail shops. The accommodation includes sitting room with fireplace, kitchen/breakfast room, shower room and two double bedrooms.

Tunbridge Wells

£395,000 - £425,000

If you are looking for a move out of the city but not ready to give up on the conveniences of urban life, this property could be for you! In the heart of Crowborough, with the Ashdown Forest on your doorstep, you can walk to an area of outstanding natural beauty but still walk to Waitrose and grab a Costa and jump on the

-

.. . . . . ...

...

...

-

.. .

-

. .. ...

-

...

Reaching the London buyer in order to achieve the best possible price Call 01892 515300 · www.freemanforman.co.uk · 22-24 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TNl lUX

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment AT A GLANCE

THE FORGE THE STREET, IGHTHAM � Grade II* listed house � Popular village location � Fascinating history � Character features � Stylishly updated � Entrance hall � Double-height drawing/dining room � Sitting room � Study � Cloakroom � Kitchen/breakfast room � Utility room � Master bedroom with en-suite shower (currently used as walk-in wardrobe) � Guest bedroom with ‘Jack and Jill’ shower room � Three further bedrooms � Family bathroom � Detached double garage and parking � Established gardens � In all, 0.21 of an acre

£1,475,000 For sale through Knight Frank Sevenoaks 01732 744477 www.knightfrank.co.uk

‘It is one of the earliest examples of a continuous jetty house in Kent’

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Forge a link with this 16th-century beauty

T

HE FORGE is a superb Grade II* listed house which, unusually, can be dated exactly to 1555. With 17th and 18th century additions, it is one of the earliest examples of a continuous jetty house in Kent. The records of the Manor of Ightham show that in 1555 the original owner, a man named Thomas Skynner, was fined for building it too close to the highway.

The current owners have meticulously refurbished the property and it now forms an eclectic mix of stylish interiors within a charming, historic frame.

On the ground floor there is an entrance hall, cloakroom, study and sitting room with woodburning stove. The drawing/dining room is a stunning, double-height room which is formed from a converted barn and there is a wealth of exposed timbers, exposed brick walls and a substantial inglenook fireplace with wood-burning stove.

The kitchen/breakfast room is

fitted in a country style with a contemporary twist, including an Aga and an open fireplace. Off the kitchen is a useful utility room.

Stairs from the hall rise to the first floor landing where there is an area of glass providing a window to view the original roof.

The master bedroom has an open fireplace and connects with the fifth bedroom, which could be used as a dressing room.

There is an en-suite shower room that the vendors have converted to a walk- in wardrobe but the plumbing is still in situ and it could easily be reinstated.

There is also a guest bedroom with a ‘Jack and Jill’ shower room plus three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Externally, timber gates open to a gravel driveway which leads to a parking area in front of a detached double garage.

The vendors have paid great attention to the garden, which is predominantly laid to lawn with designated seating areas.

Weald, Nr Sevenoaks A beautifully positioned listed farmhouse with annexe and equestrian facilities Entrance porch, drawing room, dining room, family room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom. Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Annexe. West facing terrace. Established gardens. Stabling. Paddock. In all about 5.2 acres.

Hadlow, Nr Sevenoaks An impressive Grade II* listed country house Reception hall, drawing room, dining room, sitting room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, shower room. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Double car port.

Garage. Swimming pool. Tennis court. Pavilion. Stunning gardens and grounds, lake, pond. In all about 5.3 acres.

Wadhurst A spectacular conversion occupying a delightful setting in a quiet yet accessible hamlet Entrance hall, cloakroom, sitting room, library, kitchen I breakfast room, living room and dining room, utility, cellar, garden room, study area. Master bedroom suite, 4 further bedrooms, family bathroom, 2nd en suite. Garage. Pretty gardens. EPC rating C. In all about 0.38 acre.

Horsmonden A recently completed family house on the edge of the village Entrance hall, cloakroom, utility room, kitchen I breakfast room, garden room, drawing room, sitting room, dining room. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 2 family bathrooms. Detached triple garage. Terrace. Gardens and grounds. Paddock.

EPC rating C. In all about 1.31 acres.

Knight Frank

Birling Drive, Tunbridge Wells A spacious contemporary property in a central location Reception room with cloakroom, study, sitting room, kitchen I dining room, utility, ground floor bedroom with en suite.

Master bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom. Rear garden. Off-street parking. EPC rating C.

Forest Road, Tunbridge Wells An exclusive gated development of two executive detached homes, conveniently situated for the town centre and mainline station Reception hall, study, cloakroom, kitchen I breakfast room, utility room, drawing room, dining room. Master bedroom with en suite bath I shower room, 2 further bedrooms with en suite shower rooms, 2 further bedrooms, family bath I shower room. Level rear garden laid to lawn. Detached double garage. Gated entrance.

EPC rating B.

~Knight ~Frank

� PROPERTY SECTION

LETTS GREEN HOUSE NEW YEARS LANE, KNOCKHOLT

£5,250,000

Play on your own golf course in vast property fit for fitness L

ETTS GREEN HOUSE is a superb Grade II listed country residence of character with wonderful established grounds. The house dates from 1816 and has distinctive flint elevations and attractive semi-circular fanlight windows.

The principal reception rooms comprise a drawing room with far-reaching views over the gardens, a study and a dining room.

Stairs lead to a mezzanine level, ideal as a sitting room, and a stunning conservatory links the house to a flint barn that also has superb views over the grounds.

The kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with a bespoke range of cupboards including an island unit. There is a generous walk-in larder and the breakfast area has a roof light and access to the courtyard garden.

Adjoining this is a utility room, a boot room and two cloakrooms. The basement is arranged as three rooms, one of which is a wine cellar.

On the first floor is the master suite, which is currently arranged as a bedroom, morning room, dressing room and en-suite bathroom. There are three further bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities.

Outside, a further recreation room is located in an

Wednesday 11th May 2016

attached converted barn with a double-height vaulted ceiling and an impressive open fireplace.

The swimming pool complex features a heated pool, spa pool, sauna, steam room and shower room. On the other side of the house is a snooker room, a games room and a gym – each with access to the courtyard.

This extensive property is approached via gates which open to the front drive which has parking and also leads to the garaging.

The formal gardens include a paved terrace and sweeping lawns, including one for croquet. The layout of the house creates a central courtyard which is arranged as a superb knot garden.

There is an outdoor swimming pool with bar area, as well as a tennis court and kitchen garden. The property also includes a detached one-bedroom cottage.

The park-like grounds were once an equestrian stud farm, but now form a private ten-green golf course which has up to 18 holes.

Equestrian facilities include an American-style barn with a number of stables and a timber stable block comprising four stables. In total the gardens and grounds amount to around 68 acres.

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE n Superb country residence n Extensive leisure facilities n Versatile accommodation n Period features n Exceptional setting and grounds n Reception hall n Study n Dining room n Drawing room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Boot room and two cloakrooms n Outside bar n Unique conservatory n Attached barn with recreation room and mezzanine sitting room n Cellar with three rooms n Master suite with bedroom, morning room, dressing room and bathroom n Three further bedrooms, all en-suite n Indoor pool complex n Snooker and games room n Gym n Garaging n Courtyard garden n Outdoor pool n One-bedroom cottage n Equestrian facilities n Golf course and tennis court n Gardens, grounds and woodland n In all, approximately 68 acres

£5,250,000 For sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

‘A superb Grade II listed residence that dates from 1816 and has distinctive flint elevations and semi-circular fanlight windows’

Wednesday 11th May 2016

RYE,

EAST GRINSTEAD,

EAST SUSSEX

WEST SUSSEX

Luxury country living + 5 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + 6 reception rooms + balcony + tennis court + woodland and landscaped gardens + Council Tax=H + EPC=F

Victorian family home + 6 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + 4 reception rooms + beautiful gardens + driveway parking and garage + Council Tax=H + EPC=E

£7,500 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£5,250 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

MAYFIELD,

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

EAST SUSSEX

KENT

Sought after village location + 4 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + reception room + kitchen/ breakfast room + rear garden + Council Tax=E + EPC=D

First fioor apartment + walking distance to mainline station + 2 bedrooms + 2 shower rooms + spacious reception room + kitchen + Council Tax=B + EPC=C

£1,950 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

£1,150 pcm + £282 inc VAT tenancy paperwork fee. Other charges may apply* Contact: Louise Minifie

*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/o ccupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee - charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished / unfurnished. For more details including example inventory fee, visit

{!

J:} J:} {!

**

J:} J:}

{!

*

J:}

{! {!

Moonlight Walk Remember • Celebrate • Donate

www.savills.eo.uk/fees.

HEATHFIELD,

TUNBRIDGE WELLS,

EAST SUSSEX

KENT

Striking period property + 2 reception rooms + study + kitchen/breakfast room + 2nd floor games room + 6 bedrooms + garden of about 0.26 acres + 4,074 sq ft + EPC=D

2/3 bedroom ground floor apartment + 0.7 miles Tunbridge Wells + reception hall + formal drawing room + private terrace with views + secure parking + 2,121 sq ft + EPC=C

Guide £1.175 million Freehold

Guide £1 million Leasehold

BRENCHLEY,

Contact: Liz Devall

LANGTON GREEN,

KENT

Contact: Liz Devall

KENT

Newly-built detached house + 2.3 miles Paddock Wood MLS + 2 reception rooms + kitchen/ dining room + 6 bedrooms + double garage + South-facing garden + 2,424 sq ft + EPC=B

Modern family house in convenient location + sitting room + study + kitchen/breakfast room + 5 bedrooms + double garage + driveway with parking + garden + 1 ,714 sq ft + EPC=D

Guide £995,000 Freehold

Guide £825,000 Freehold

* ** * *** {r*{r {r {r{r

Moonlight Walk Remember • Celebrate • Donate

Contact: Liz Devall

Contact: Becky Card

Bidborough

Guide Price: ÂŁ975,000

A modem and spacious detached house enjoying a pleasant, semi-rural position on the fringe of the village within the popular Mill Court development. The property enjoys far reaching views from many of its first floor windows. Impressive hallway, cloakroom, study, bay fronted sitting room, dining room, breakfast room, fitted kitchen, utility room, split level landing, 5 bedrooms (2 with en suites). Single garage and further parking in a cart barn, private gardens. EPC: C.

Tunbridge Wells

Guide Price: ÂŁ749,950

A Victorian 3 storey home situated in the heart of the 'village area' of the town and close to The Grove Park. The property retains most of its original timber sash windows and character features including fireplaces, stripped pine doors and coved cornices. Hall, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room on the ground floor; 2 bedrooms, bathroom plus a separate cloakroom on the first floor and 2 further bedrooms on the second floor. Landscaped rear garden. EPC: D.

Tunbridge Wells

Guide Price: £819,000

An exceptionally spacious detached family house located on the popular south side of Tunbridge Wells. Flexible accommodation over 3 floors including a self-contained annexe. Detached garage with garden room/gym beneath, landscaped tiered gardens. EPC: C.

Tunbridge Wells

Price Range: £699,950 - £725,00

A detached family home, in need of some cosmetic updating, situated in the Parish of St James'.

Hall, 2 reception rooms, cloakroom, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms ( I en suite), bathroom.

Tandem length garage, driveway parking, south-facing garden. No onward chain. EPC: D

Tunbridge Wells

Price Range: £699,950 - £725,000

A modern detached house, in need of updating with the potential to extend (STPP), situated on the south side of the town. Hall, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, 4 bedrooms, bathroom. Double garage, parking. SO'x45' rear garden. No onward chain. EPC: D.

Tunbridge Wells

Monthly Rental £ 1,500

A spacious 4 storey town house located on the south side of the town. Kit/breakfast room, reception room, living room/master bedroom, 3 further double bedrooms, family bathroom & 2 cloakrooms. Ground floor storage rooms. Garden & single garage. Available now. EPC: E.

Tunbridge Wells

Monthly Rental £750

A newly refurbished and well presented I bedroom first floor apartment located in a desirable road off Mount Ephraim. Fully fitted kitchen, light dual aspect living room, double bedroom, bathroom. Off road parking space, single garage & communal gardens. Available now. EPC: G.

Tunbridge Wells

Monthly Rental£ I, I 00

A spacious 2 bedroom first floor apartment located within an elegant building along popular Broadwater Down. Kitchen, living room with open fire, 2 double bedrooms & a modem bathroom suite. Gas central heating & off road parking. Available now. EPC: E.

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

Spacious house near station has character

AT A GLANCE

MILLGATE MILL LANE, HILDENBOROUGH � Versatile period home � Close to station � Character features � Cloakroom � Dining room � Drawing room � Study � Sitting room � Hobbies room � Kitchen/breakfast room � Lobby � Utility room

M

ILLGATE is a charming period property in Hildenborough offering flexible accommodation. Attractive features include exposed wall and ceiling timbers, wooden flooring, leaded light windows and fireplaces.

The house is close to the station and sits within an established and secluded south-east facing garden.

Entering the house, an attractive portico entrance with oak front door leads to a hall and a cloakroom. The principal reception rooms offer well-proportioned entertaining

Wednesday 11th May 2016

� Wine cellar areas and comprise a drawing room with an open fireplace and doors to the rear garden, a dining room with bow window to the front and a charming inglenook fireplace with woodburning stove, and a sitting room with a hatch to a wine cellar below. There is also a study and a hobbies room.

The generous kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with a comprehensive range of units and a Falcon range-style cooker. Double doors open to the rear terrace. Tiled flooring continues to a side lobby with access to the front and rear of the house, and on to the utility room.

Set on the first floor is a generous master suite comprising a double-aspect bedroom, with a step up to a dressing area with fitted wardrobes and adjoining en-suite bathroom with multi-jet bath. There are four further bedrooms, three of which are doubles, and a family bathroom.

The house is approached over a brick-block driveway with a five-bar gate. The drive also provides parking for a number of cars, and there is an attached double garage to one side.

The rear garden features a decked terrace and barbecue area, as well as a lawn, a pond, greenhouse and summerhouse.

� Master bedroom with dressing room and bathroom � Four further bedrooms � Family bathroom � Double garage and parking � Pretty gardens

£850,000 For sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

Andrews >

Tunbridge Wells andrewsonline.co.uk

Theodore Close, TN2 3HT Guide £300,000-£315,000 In need of modernisation - a 3 bedroom semi-detached house in a cul-de-sac location, with garage, driveway and gardens front and rear.

Energy Efficiency Rating: TBC

Ashenden Walk, TN2 3UJ Guide £300,000-£310,000 Set to the north east of Tunbridge Wells in a pretty little cul-de-sac, this semidetached house has three bedrooms, upstairs bathroom and parking.

Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Ill South View Road, TN4 9BU

£350,000 - £365,000 Beautiful Victorian semi-detached house with character features, within 0.4 mile of train station and Primary schools.

Energy Efficiency Rating: E

St. Johns Close, TN4 9GA £1,600pcm This contemporary style family home is located in a cul-de-sac in the St Johns area of town, just opposite St Johns church. Tunbridge Wells town centre facilities are 0.5 mile away. Tunbridge Wells station is 0.8 mile away through the town centre.

Energy Efficiency Rating: B

Tunbridge Wells Sales 01892 515 11+'+ Tunbridge Wells Lettings 01892 525 551

To view more properties available from all 85 of our offices, visit andrewsonline.co.uk

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk ·"""-·

THESUNDAYTIMES

THE illltltlaTIMES

Goudhurst £1,295,000 A charming Grade II listed 6 bedroom family home with a wealth of period features including inglenook fireplace, exposed beams and brickwork and park-like gardens of just under an acre.

Dormans Park £995,000 With a premier residential location within Dormans Park, this 4 bedroom grand period wing forms the majority part of this substantial Victorian property with gardens of about 0. 75 acres including an ancient woodland. EPC: E

Lamberhurst £850,000 Situated on the popular Lamberhurst Down, a distinctive converted stable with 3/4 bedrooms and a beautiful light and spacious interior, pretty established gardens including a superb, secluded walled courtyard. EPC: F

Collier Street £785,000 Originally dating from about 1860 and converted in 2005, this exceptional 4 bedroom Grade II listed barn conversion is in a rural setting in the Weald of Kent on the outskirts of the village of Collier Street.

Crowborough £675,000 An attractive detached 4 bedroom house in need of some modernisation situated in a convenient location on the outskirts of Crowborough with spacious accommodation and beautiful mature gardens. EPC: F

Tunbridge Wells £675,000 A modern Regency-style 4 bedroom townhouse situated in a small attractive development within close proximity of the grammar schools and town centre and offered with no onward chain. EPC: C

Tunbridge Wells Office Sales. 01892 597607 I tunbridgewells@hamptons-int.com

Crowborough ÂŁ1,000,000 Situated in a tucked-away position along a popular road this individually designed 6 bedroom detached house offers superb spacious accommodation including an exceptional kitchen/breakfast/family room with bi-folding doors opening directly to the garden. EPC: C

Tunbridge Wells ÂŁ1,395,000 A substantial and beautifully presented detached Edwardian house approaching 4,000 sq ft situated on the popular southern side of Tunbridge Wells with spacious and versatile accommodation and many fine period features. EPC: E

Drl

� PROPERTY SECTION

MANOR CLOSE TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£1,100,000

Redesigned to let in the light in a quiet but handy location

T

HIS unusual, if not unique, detached family home lies in the highly sought-after location of Manor Close – a quiet no-through road within walking distance of Tunbridge Wells town centre. The property has undergone a comprehensive redesign and now boasts bright, spacious and well-planned accommodation laid out over three floors.

On the ground floor there is an entrance hall leading to a fabulous dual-aspect sitting room with feature bow window, large open fireplace with wood-burning stove and glazed patio doors opening on to a partly covered terrace area.

There is a lovely dining room, also with doors to the terrace, and a beautifully-fitted Martin Moore kitchen,

Wednesday 11th May 2016

which leads on to a breakfast area with high vaulted ceiling. A large utility area with access to the integral garage and a cloakroom complete this floor.

Oak stairs lead to the first floor, with a tall cathedral window flooding the landing and hallway with natural light. There are four bedrooms (one en-suite) and a family shower room, while the top floor houses an impressive vaulted bedroom with two large Velux-style windows that convert into a lovely balcony space overlooking the gardens.

To the front, the garden is laid to level lawn with gates providing access on both sides of the property.

The rear garden has been cleverly landscaped to make the most of the natural gradient and the plot amounts to approximately a third of an acre.

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

AT A GLANCE n Attractive and unusual family house n Sought-after no-through road n Walking distance of town centre n Recently redesigned and improved n Beautifully presented n Entrance hall n Sitting room n Dining room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Large utility room n Cloakroom n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom n Three further bedrooms on first floor n Family shower room n Top floor with study area and large bedroom n Integral garage n Landscaped gardens

£1,100,000 For sale through Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

‘Oak stairs lead to the first floor, with a tall cathedral window flooding the landing with natural light’

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Ide Hill, Kent

Guide Price ÂŁ799,950

Sevenoaks station 3 .3 miles, Sevenoaks 4.4 miles, Junction 5 M25 2 miles A detached bungalow with fine rural views and great potential situated in a picturesque setting yet close to Sevenoaks town.

Reception hall I Cloakroom I Spacious sitting/dining room I Kitchen I Inner hall I Two double bedrooms I Family bathroom I Utility area I Double garage I Mature gardens backing onto farm land I EPC F

Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker.corn

Sevenoaks, Kent

Guide Price ÂŁ1,325,000

Sevenoaks Station 0.8 miles, Sevenoaks Town 1.4 miles,A21 / M25 Interchange 1.4 miles A superb four bedroom family home refurbished to a high standard and situated in asought after private road, close to the town, mainline station and Riverhead schools Entrance hall I Cloakroom I Kitchen/breakfast room I Study/family room I Lounge I Family bathroom I Two double bedrooms I Master bedroom I 2nd floor double bedroom I Garden I About 0.28 acre

Sevenoaks 01732 807801

sevenoaks@struttandparker.corn

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment AT A GLANCE THE HAYDENS, TONBRIDGE n Modern family home n Desirable location n Well-proportioned n Entrance hall n Sitting room n Dining room n Study n Kitchen n Utility room n Cloakroom n Master bedroom with en-suite shower room n Three further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Drive and double garage n Pretty gardens

£820,000 For sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

Modern property that is ideal for entertaining

A

N ATTRACTIVE modern home which is wellproportioned and set within a desirable road in Tonbridge. Features include double-glazed windows with painted wooden frames, coving and Amtico flooring throughout the ground floor.

The reception rooms are ideal for entertaining, with a double-aspect sitting room and a separate dining room.

The sitting room is bright and airy with French doors leading to the rear terrace and a Victorian-style fireplace with decorative tiles. Both the sitting and dining rooms have feature bay windows. The kitchen is fitted with a comprehensive range of units with granite work surfaces and upstands, and integrated appliances include a stainless steel Smeg range cooker.

There is a study to the front of the house, and a useful utility room and cloakroom complete the ground floor accommodation.

The master bedroom has an outlook over the rear garden, along with built-in wardrobes and an en-suite shower room. There are three further bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Outside, there is a herringbone brick-paved driveway at the front which leads to a detached double garage.

To the rear is a level lawn flanked by shaped beds and a paved terrace which is perfect for al fresco entertaining. The perimeter of the rear garden is fully enclosed by close-boarded fencing.

‘The sitting room is bright and airy with French doors leading to the rear terrace and a Victorian-style fireplace with decorative tiles’ Wednesday 11th May 2016

••

~~

•

iJl1iFLY PROPERTIES

BY CAROL PRIER

Yardley Park Road su bstantial 5 bedroom house built in 2010- Bedrooms all offer en-suite facilities, 3 reception s and conservatory, large kitchen/breakfast room. Good size secl uded plot - must be viewed ! EPC C

Stunning garden which is approximately 100ft in length which backs onto field s and orchards. The ve rsatile layout offers four bedrooms (two to the ground floor, two to the first floor), shower/cloakroo m, utility room, large kitchen/dining room, spacious garden room. To the first floor, fabulous sitting room with dual fuel stove and balcony taking full advantage of garden views. EPC C

In a most idyllic spot within the sought after village of West Peckham; the 5 bedroom property is set in a mature plot in excess of one third of an acre with the most superb gardens to front, sides and rear. The house provides extensive accommodation comprising large sitti ng/dining room, kitchen, conservatory, ground floor bathroom with separate w.c., and first floor shower room. Detached garage. Agardener's delight, must be viewed I EPC D

Beautiful 1950s family home offering in excess of 1 acre of grounds plus an additional 2.2 acres of communal land. 4 bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms, 3 receptions to include conservatory, kitchen/breakfast room, utility and cloakroom. DETACHED ANNEX building with services and triple bay garage. EPC E

Fabulous location with stunning views -approx 100ft garden · contemporary decor, sitting/dining room, conservatory, large kitchen, bathroom, 3 bedrooms off road parking 3 cars. EPC D

Beautifully presented Grade II listed detached character home, circa 1541 , 3/4 acre of grounds with enchanting mill stream.

Two reception rooms, both boasting inglenook fireplaces, large kitchen/breakfast room, cloakroom, storage area, three bedrooms to include master bedroom to the first floor with en-suite, family bathroom, and bedroom four to the second floor.

Stable Cottage is perfectly located within the Parish of Brenchley for country living, yet only 1.9 miles distant to Paddock Wood MLS 3/4 bedrooms, study/bedroom 4, large drawing room which is 22'5" x 18'7". Ground floor bathroom with first floo r cloakroom. Farmhouse kitchen (extension) with bespoke fitted units, 2 double bedrooms to the first floor. Garage with utility area .

COLTS HILL· FIVE OAK GREEN

Standing in grounds just in excess of 2 acres which could lend itse lf to equine facilities. 3 receptions, 4 bedrooms to include master bedroom with en su ite, attached triple garage which has potential, subject to planning , to convert to 'annex or workshop'. EPC F

Stunning oast conversion set in approx. 12 acres of grounds in semi-rural location in Five Oak Green. The property offers versatile accommodation (approx 3,000 sq ft) with five bedrooms and two en suites. Our clients have worked with the conservation officers to bring Spring Farm Oast back to life with specific colour schemes which would appeal to any discerning buyer.

Viewing highly recommended. - EPC-Awaiting air testing.

£625,000 Beautifully presented 4 bedroom, detached 1930s family home -2 reception rooms, large kitchen/breakfast room, ground floor cloakroom, garage with electric door and utility area to the rear.

Beautiful master bedroom with en-suite, 3 further bedrooms and family bathroom. Garden room to the rear which is ideal for alfresco dining .

� PROPERTY SECTION

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

Charming period farmhouse with its own bluebell wood

AT A GLANCE OLD HERTSFIELD STAPLEHURST ROAD, MARDEN � Grade II listed farmhouse � Rural location � Views over the Beult River valley

O

LD HERTSFIELD is a lovely Grade II listed former farmhouse thought to date back to the 18th century. The property is set at the end of a private lane surrounded by attractive gardens, a paddock, a bluebell wood to the west and views over the Beult River valley. Period features include oak beams, high ceilings and wood flooring.

On the ground floor there is a spacious reception hall, a double-aspect drawing room with wood-burning stove, a conservatory, a dining room, a bright and airy family room with an impressive inglenook fireplace, doors out to a terrace and a cloakroom.

The kitchen, with vaulted ceiling, benefits from electric underfloor heating below a terracotta tiled floor, a range cooker and a stable door leading out to a second terrace. There is also an adjoining pantry and utility room.

Upstairs lies a double-aspect master bedroom with en-suite shower, a study/dressing room, and three further double bedrooms which share a family bathroom.

The second floor has two more double bedrooms – one currently used as a study. There is also substantial attic space, which could be converted to provide further accommodation subject to the necessary planning consents.

Approximately two acres of the grounds are fully fenced and comprise lawned areas with deciduous and coniferous trees. There are two stone terraces for outside entertaining, and two fenced ponds as well as an L-shaped paddock with stables.

Old Hertsfield is approached from a private lane through wooden gates to a paved driveway which provides parking for several cars and leads to a double garage.

There are around five and a half acres in all.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

� Period features � Well presented � Reception hall � Drawing room � Dining room � Family room � Conservatory � Kitchen/breakfast room � Pantry � Utility room � Cloakroom � Master bedroom with en-suite shower � Study/dressing room � Three further bedrooms � Family bathroom � Two top floor bedrooms � Large attic space � Double garage � Formal gardens � Paddock and stables � Bluebell wood � 5.5 acres in all

£1,295,000 For sale through Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.co.uk

Your local independent Estate Agent

1kMJProperty

...contactable 7 days a week

Semi-detached house. Lounge with Log burner, dining room with Log burner, modern fitted kitchen with underfloor heating, 2 double bedrooms upstairs bathroom with separate shower cubicle. Double · ~·.,...,.._.~...... glazing, gas fired heating and rear garden. EPC D.

Semi-detached house, potential to update and reconfigure . Lounge, dining room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and upstairs bathroom. Double glazing, storage heating and rear garden. EPC D

www.kmjproperty.co.uk S::11

Find us on

• 111 Facebook

Semi-detached house refurbished to a high standard .

Lounge with box bay to front, dining room, modern fitted kitchen, main bedroom with en-suite, 2 further bedrooms and modern fitted bathroom . Double glazing, gas fired heating and rear garden. NO CHAIN. EPCE

Terrace house with Lounge, kitchen/ diner, 2 double bedrooms and an upstairs bathroom. The property benefits from a courtyard garden, double glazing to front and gas fired heating . EPC D

01892 515188

<i)nTheMarketcom

,••

sales@kmjproperty.co.uk ~ AP!'RCMO COO

, ~ : i . ~ ....

Tunbridge Wells • 2 Bedrooms • 2 Courtyard Gardens • Off Road Parking

Tunbridge Wells • Detached Executive Property • 4 Bedrooms, Master With En-Suite

Tunbridge Wells • 5 Bedroom Town House • Popular St Johns Location • Bedrooms with En Suite Shower

£850 PCM • Avai lab le June • En ergy Efficiency Rating: F • Agent's Fees App ly

£875,000 Tonbridge • Desirable South Side Location • Studio/Gym/Home Office

• Double Garage • Energy Efficiency Rating: D

£790,000 Tunbridge Wells • Conservatory, Itali an Style Garden • On Road Parking • En ergy Efficiency Rating: F

• Beautiful Ground Floor Apartment • Two Bedrooms • Vi llage Location

Tun bridge Wells Office I 01892 511211 tun bridgewel ls @wooda ndpi lcher.co.u k Southborough Office 01892 511311 south boroug h @woodandpilcher.co.u k

NAEA

Guide Price: £350,000 • No Onward Chain • Off Road Parking • Energy Efficiency Rating: D

L '""

~ 11.'l',: •:1l y

O n i1Ld l; i1 , WI 1~111.

woodandpilcher.co.uk

• 4 Bedrooms • 2 Reception Rooms • Good Sized Rear Garden

£1,500 PCM • Avai lab le Now • En ergy Efficiency Rating: D • Agent's Fees App ly

Tunbridge Wells • 4 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Sought After Location

£1,750 PCM • Avai lab le May • En ergy Efficiency Rating: E • Agent's Fees App ly

Other offices in Crowborough, Heathfield, Tonbridge & associated London Branch

we open doors for you ...

BarnesKingsnorth

MATFIELD

£275,000

CHARACTER COTTAGE. A charming 2 bedroom attached cottage set on the edge of Matfield. Character features including exposed timbers and latch-and-braced doors combine with the modern comforts of central heating and double glazing. Sitting room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom with white suite. Attractive garden with patio and lawn. Gated parking for 2-3 cars. EPC: D Apply Pembury

SHIPBOURNE

£850,000

SUPERB FAMILY ACCOMMODATION at this attractive, detached house with stunning views and countryside walks on the doorstep. Situated on the edge of sought after Shipbourne village, the property offers large entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room and delightful conservatory as well as kitchen/breakfast room and utility. On the first floor there are 5 bedrooms, family bathroom, en-suite bathroom and in addition a fabulous family room 24' x 18' which could easily become a Master Bedroom Suite. There is an integral double garage, plenty of parking and garden too. EPC: D Apply Tonbridge

BRENCHLEY

OIEO £600,000

COUNTRY LIVING. Semi-detached character home set within approx. 0.9 acre (tbv) of !awned gardens and woodland. Exposed timbers and inglenook fireplace with wood-burner and bread oven.

Sitting room opening to dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, garden room, utility room, ground-floor bathroom, first-floor shower room, 3 bedrooms. Gated parking and carport. EPC: D Apply Pembury

Q} Primelocatior

Residential

t i'rightmove.co.uk Sales & !Lettings

Pembury: 01892 822880

Tonbridge: 01732 771616

Lettings: 01732 771616

e.pembury@bkea.co.uk

e.tonbridge@bkea.co.uk

e. Lettings@bkea.co.uk

www.l,kestatea1ents.com

Horns Lodge Lane, Tonbridge

Asking Price £1,475,000 Garden Road, Tonbridge

A wonderful five-bedroom family home, part of a stunning barn conversion in an exceptional countryside location. The property is located at the end of a private road with tranquil views across the surrounding fields.

This charming and well presented three bedroom period built double fronted semi detached house is conveniently located for Tonbridge Station in a sought after road.

\

I

/

/ George Street, Tonbridge

I

I

I

Guide Price £290,000 - £310,000 Bitchet Green, Sevenoaks

A charming two bedroom, three storey period style house ideally located for Tonbridge Station. Well-presented internally this property is offered to the market chain free.

Guide Price £480,000 - £510,000

OIEO £1,600,000

Set within the grounds of a private road in the beautiful hamlet of Bitchet Green is this stunning four-bedroom property. The house is nestled in approximately three acres of private and secluded gardens. A private driveway leads to the front of this charming home.

WITH THE

NEW HOMES AND LETTINGS High spec 5-bedroom new builds with rail connections and glorious views

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Open day for you to marvel at spectacular country homes looking over North Downs

Lovely Victorian townhouse to let opposite station and park Wednesday 11th May 2016

Available with a range of incentives* to help make your dream move happen Prices from ÂŁ999,995

DUKES GRANGE, BAYHAM ROAD, ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS TN2 5HU

CALL 01892 628 676 CALA.CO.UK

TWTl 1 MAY *Availability of other incentives/offers subjed to lender's criteria and CALA's discretion. Our range of incentives are not all available in one purchase, they represent a choice of incentives and cannot be used in conjunction with each other and are available on selected plots only. Visit cala.co.uk/terms for full terms and conditions and purchasing criteria. Telephone calls within the British Isles will be charged at local rate. Telephone calls may divert to a mobile service in which case call charges may vary. Prices are accurate at time of going to print. Images shown are taken from previous developments and feature, fittings, decor, flooring and soft furnishings which are not included as standard in a CALA home. Images are used to suggest possible finishes which can be achieved in your home at an additional cost. Please consult a Sales Advisor for further details. Some images have been enhanced.

NEW VIEW HOME OPENING DAY 14TH MAY

JOIN US FOR THE LAUNCH OF OUR NEW VIEW HOME Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th May 10am to 5pm Two, three and four bedroom family homes in a woodland setting. Available now from £350,000.

Knights Wood, Tunbridge Wells TN2 3UW

ONE HOUR PRE-LAUNCH EVENT • Play 'Street Cricket' with the Kent Spitfires • Meet the Team • Summer Refreshments • Preview the View Home

FRIDAY 13TH MAY 5PM TO 6PM 01892 800 580

knightswood.co.uk

KNIGHTS WOOD ROYAL

TUNBRIDGE

WELLS

� PROPERTY SECTION

Centre of Tunbridge Wells

MEADOW HILL ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

£3,000

T

PER MONTH

HIS large Victorian townhouse is set in the heart of Tunbridge Wells and has recently been refurbished. With features typical of the period – including sash windows, panelled doors, cornicing and feature fireplaces – the accommodation is set over three floors and is well presented throughout.

It is a bright and airy house, with wonderful views to the front over The Grove, and is well placed for both the High Street and the station.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

The ground floor has an entrance hall, a sitting room with a bay window to the front and an open fireplace, a dining room, a cloakroom and a spacious kitchen/breakfast room with integrated Neue appliances and a Belling range cooker.

Plus a sash window and door to the garden.

The master bedroom, which enjoys lovely views over the park, is on the first floor, along with a second bedroom and an extremely well-appointed family bathroom. The top floor

has three further bedrooms, all well served by a family shower room with access to eaves storage.

In front of the house there is a shrub border and a chequer-tiled path leading to the front door.

To the rear there is a lovely courtyard garden, accessed through the kitchen, which is landscaped to provide a flagstone terrace and planted raised borders.

The property is available to let unfurnished and there is residents’ permit parking.

‘With features typical of the period including sash windows and fireplaces’

In association with EJ FINANCIAL LTD

Impartial Investment, Pension and Tax Planning

• Call 01892 655973 today for a FREE appointment

PROPERTY SECTION �

with views over The Grove

AT A GLANCE

n Newly refurbished Victorian townhouse n Central location n Set beside The Grove park n Period features n Entrance hall n Sitting room n Dining room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Cloakroom n Five bedrooms across top two floors n Family bathroom n Family shower room n Landscaped courtyard garden to rear n To let unfurnished

£3,000 per month To let through Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507050 www.savills.co.uk

Wednesday 11th May 2016

� PROPERTY SECTION

Michael Brooker Buying, selling or letting ESTATE

AGENTS

Michael Brooker Estate Agents offers a friendly and professional service for all your property needs

Royal Tunbridge Wells Guide Price £1,250,000 FREEHOLD A Substantial Detached Victorian Residence set in quarter of an acre (not measured). Recently reconfigured and refurbished, 6 bedrooms, family bathroom, en-suite bathroom and 2 en-suite shower rooms, 2 cloakrooms, 3 receptions, 41ft open plan kitchen/breakfast room/living area, utility room, Detached garage and further off road parking

1 London Road, Crowborough, East Sussex TN6 2TR Sales: 01892 663377 I sales@michaelbrooker.co.uk www.michaelbrooker.co. uk

GRAVESEND ROAD WROTHAM, KENT TN15 7QP

OPEN WEEKEND 14TH&1STH MAY 1QAM - 4PM

Wednesday 11th May 2016

For Sale Coming Soon ...

2 bedroom apartment I Frant Road Period building I Garage

More like this wanted!

Please call to make appointment for free sales valuation

More like this wanted!

Please call to make appointment for free sales valuation

www.tw-property.co.uk TW Property, 34 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1LU

Sales: Tel 01892 530109 Lettings: Tel 01892 548049

e: sales@tw-property.co.uk e: lettings@tw-property.co.uk

â&#x20AC;˘

ti rightmove

~ ~

~ / \ The Property

~Ombudsman

We are members of Property Ombudsman and Guild of Letting and Management

ACCESSORIES RRP £4879

RRP £2416 Our Price

£1499

WEDDING FEATURE �

the perfect day… 1

77

FIVE TOP TIPS FOR FUTURE BRIDES AND GROOMS

I started the day at our home with my mum, two bridesmaids and plenty of Moet! We had a family friend to collect us in his Bentley draped in ribbons. As it was the hottest day of the year (so far), the roof on the car came down and we were able to enjoy our journey to the fullest.

I was so pleased how beautiful the barn was decorated, all the windows were open with the springtime sun beaming PIECE OF MAGIC through. I couldn’t have Custom fairytale been happier. cake from My husband and I Fiona Cairns and our guests enjoyed our intimate ceremony followed with bubbly in the garden, chatting and celebrating whilst our Spanish guitarist serenaded our guests.

My husband and I walked over to the calverley grounds with our photographer Sam Yardley and my sister/bridesmaid Rachel for a fun photo shoot carrying giant wedding balloons!

What companies contributed your special day and would like to recommend to future brides?

We gave ourselves four months to plan our dream wedding.

I visited Frou Frou bridal boutique, as they are fashion forward yet timeless and very individual for brides who want to stay true to themselves. I

found a sleek and exquisite silk gown designed by Sanyukta Shrestha and a Stewart Parvin beaded sash. I also got a lace bolero from Isabella Grace as a finishing touch.

Brides and bridesmaid’s bouquets and flowers were created by the brilliant talented team at Colonnade florist.

Our photographer was Sam Yardley (samyardleyphotography.com), and we couldn’t have asked for a more energetic and enthusiastic photographer capturing all the special moments of the day.

My Sister Rachel (Rachel-page-photography.com) took over from Sam for the evening celebrations.

Our 3-tier vintage fairytale wedding cake and matching cupcakes were made and supplied by Fiona Cairns and her team. She also made the royal wedding cake for William and Kate.

For hire of some venue decorations like bay trees and lanterns, we used Lorna at Beautiful Covers. She was very helpful and professional all the way.

Spanish guitarist Bob Hooper played a chosen selection along with freestyle pieces to complement our day with musical perfection.

Favours were Mr and Mrs Taylor love heart sweets and sugar coated chocolate hearts.

2 3 4 5

Like the old saying ‘’too many cooks spoil the broth’’ remember to keep your planning to what you and your husband really want, asking to many people for advice can get confusing.

Use local suppliers, supporting them and they will support you and give you their best, they will be familiar with the venues in your area too.

Having a clear vision for your day, and make it personal, remember you only do this once, it’s a celebration of your journey together.

For the bride! Take along another pair of high heels, just in case a heel was to break or your feet are getting a little sore from all the dancing!

This may sound silly but remember to spend the day together, it’s your day.

How did you start your married life together?

Did you treat yourself to a honeymoon?

Our home we have made is in Royal Tunbridge Wells, a short stroll to the pantiles. We are so excited about our honeymoon we have booked for May 2016, with two destinations firstly being Dubai, an exciting city break then onto the Maldives for a sun sand tropical paradise. We cannot wait.

PERFECT SETTING The ideal place for celebrating at The Barn

SIGNED, SEALED AND DELIVERED Husband and wife Jamie and Samatha

Wednesday 11th May 2016

78  FOOD AND DRINK

Pick of the bunch

To celebrate English Wines Week, which runs from May 28 to June 5, Charlie Bond raises a toast to the local producers who are giving their European and New World rivals a run for their money IF YOU heard the news about this summer’s predicted Prosecco shortage and panicked then stress no more. Surrounding us in this area is a wealth of fantastic vineyards producing world-class, award-winning wines.

In the past, English wines were considered poor relatives to their European and New

World counterparts but this is certainly no longer the case.

Kentish vineyards’ chalky, clay soil and favourable climate means that we’re now capable of producing wines that are just as good – if not better – than those created by our French cousins.

A huge 6.3million bottles of English wines were sold in 2014, and this number is expected to rise exponentially. By 2020 it’s estimated that 12million bottles will be sold.

Last summer, Waitrose, which stocks over 100 English wines, reported a 177% increase in sales in just one week.

So, with English Wines Week taking place from May 28 to June 5 and many vineyards hosting special events and activities throughout the week, there’s never been a better time to support your local winery and sample their wares. If you’re unsure what to buy then check out our recommendations.

‘Push the boat out’ 14th May 2016 10am – 4pm Come and try your hand at sailing The free event will run from 10.00 - 16.00. Members of BSA and The Mariners of Bewl will be around all day to talk to anyone interested in sailing both racing and cruising, discuss the merits of Bewl and talk about suitable boats to sail on Bewl Water. Members of the Bewl team will be on hand to assist with membership applications and answer any further questions.

We are offering all visitors, able-bodied and disabled, the opportunity to ‘have a go’ sailing all day from 10.00 - 16.00. The less confident and children will be taken out in boats helmed by very experienced sailors.

More confident visitors will have the chance to crew in either a wayfarer dinghy or a Flying Fifteen. Again these will be helmed by experienced sailors. Of course they may wish to try more than one type of boat and this will be fine. There will not be any charges.

Parents or guardians will sign a consent form for all children sailing. This

W AT E R S P O R T S AT B E W L W AT E R

is RYA policy. All visitors will be loaned a buoyancy aid. We have small

SUPPLIED IMAGERY

buoyancy aids for children. Two support boats will be

water sports

at bewl water Wednesday 11th May 2016 D E S I G N E D B Y: G I N G E R M O N K E Y S C R E AT I V E T E A M

on the water at all times when visitors are sailing.

01892 890000 | www.bewlwater.co.uk info@bewlwater.co.uk |

FOOD AND DRINK 

SQUERRYES The Squerryes Estate totals 2,500 acres surrounding the town of Westerham. The first vineyards were planted in 2006 and there are now 35 acres under vine. The lower chalk and upper greensand soils are very similar to those found in the Grand Cru Chardonnay dominant villages of the Côte des Blancs in Champagne, and the vineyard produces exclusively sparkling wine from the Champagne varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

TRY – Squerryes Brut 2010, RRP £28.99 (45% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meunier.

ABV 12%) This award-winning fizz is simply delicious – it’s fresh, with subtle fruit flavours but there’s also a delicate nuttiness. It has a long finish, which leaves you wanting more – a great choice if you’re looking for something for a special occasion.

Westerham Valley Farm, Westerham TN16 1PQ www.squerryes.co.uk BIDDENDEN Originally an apple orchard, in 1969 the first vines at Biddenden were planted. Almost 50 years later, Kent’s original commercial vineyard now boasts 11 grape varieties and produces 80,000 bottles of wine a year. They make red, white, rosé and sparkling wines, as well as ciders and juices, and they have a number of awards to their name.

TRY – Biddenden Ortega 2014, RRP £10.80 (100% Ortega. ABV 11%) Of the 23 acres at Biddenden, 12.5 of them are Ortega grapes, so if you’ve never sampled their wonderful range of wines, this is a great one to start with. Fresh aromas of green apple, grapefruit and cut grass make this wine an easy-drinking, characterful option. If you’re a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, this will be right up your street.

Gribble Bridge Lane, Biddenden TN27 8DF www.biddendenvineyards.com

GUSBOURNE Gusbourne Estate is located in Appledore, and the first vines were planted there in 2004. Now they have seven vineyards across Kent and four in West Sussex, all planted with the classic varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. They produce a range of sparkling wines, and in 2015 they received no fewer than six gold medals for their outstanding produce.

TRY – Gusbourne 2012 Sparkling Rose, RRP £37.99 (37% Chardonnay, 46% Pinot Noir, 17% Pinot Meunier. ABV 12.1%) This delicate pink fizz has subtle flavours of red fruits, with a hint of herbs on the finish. It’s fresh without being acidic, and should definitely find its way into your glass this summer.

Kenardington Road, Appledore TN26 2BE www.gusbourne.com HUSH HEATH Close to Staplehurst, the Hush Heath estate comprises almost 400 acres, with 37 of these dedicated to the Champagne grape varieties; Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Hush Heath is the only English vineyard dedicated to the creation of rosé sparkling wine, and they’re often winning awards for their offerings.

TRY – Balfour Brut Rosé 2011, RRP £35.99 (40% Pinot Noir, 52% Chardonnay, 8% Pinot Meunier.

ABV 12%) Having scooped silver in the 2015 Decanter World Wine Awards, you’d expect this fizz to be good, and it certainly lives up to expectation. It’s dry and fresh with hints of berries, but also has a spiciness to it which sets it apart from other rosés. Perfect for summer drinking, make sure you have a bottle of this to enjoy with friends (or keep it all to yourself!)

Five Oak Lane, Staplehurst TN12 0HT www.hushheath.com

79

CHAPEL DOWN Producing over 1million bottles of red, white, rosé and sparkling wines a year, Chapel Down near Tenterden are the market leaders in English wines. Since their inception in 2001 they’ve won hundreds of awards, and their success is now on a global scale, as they import across the world. Their main grape varietals include Bacchus, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and they own over 100 acres of vineyards across Kent as well as sourcing grapes from elsewhere in the UK. TRY – Kit’s Coty Chardonnay 2013, RRP £19.99 (100% Chardonnay. ABV 12.5%) The first of their premium range of wines produced from a single vineyard, this Chardonnay hails from Kit’s Coty near Aylesford and is certain to make it into Chapel Down’s hall of fame.

While it maintains the creaminess distinctive of Chardonnay, it also has a freshness and aromas of apple. Those who have been put off trying Chardonnays in the past may be surprised – this is a definite crowdpleaser and pairs perfectly with fish.

Small Hythe, Tenterden TN30 7NG 01580 763033 www.chapeldown.com

Wednesday 11th May 2016

80 � FOOD AND DRINK

On the waterfront…

The Riverside in Lamberhurst is emerging as one of the area’s most popular restaurants.

Eileen Leahy chats to its owner Chris Larman about his passion for creating quality food using locally sourced ingredients and providing his guests with the perfect dining ambience

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Dine alfresco

Wednesday 11th May 2016

WHAT could be better than sitting on a sun soaked terrace savouring some exotic culinary delights as ducks bob happily by on a gently flowing river?

This idyllic scenario is usually reserved for holidays in the sun but readers of the Times will be pleased to learn they can actually enjoy this experience – weather permitting obviously – just a few miles from their doorstep.

The Riverside in Lamberhurst may have only been open for eight months but it is already gaining a reputation as a fabulous dining destination thanks to its picturesque location, quality cuisine and excellent service.

Run by business entrepreneur Chris Larman and his partner Jana Volkova, who has worked for some of the capital’s top eateries, The Riverside has been totally transformed from its most recent guise as an Italian to a fine dining restaurant that’s garnering five star reviews on Trip Advisor and seeing a trail of foodies traipse to the pretty village of Lamberhurst in order to indulge in treats from its impressive menu.

Although Chris isn’t a trained chef he has made his lifelong dream of running his own establishment a reality.

Gourmet offerings on the extensive menu

“My passion’s always been food and it’s been an aspiration of mine to have a restaurant for as long as I can remember. When we were looking to move to Kent, we came to Lamberhurst and really liked it. We saw La Dolce Vita was up for sale and we just thought ‘Why not?’”

The first thing the couple did was to get on board with the local suppliers and farmers.

“We quickly realised we wanted to make the most of all the amazing produce we have around us,” says Chris.

“It would be a real shame not to take advantage of the abundance that is on our doorstep. We’ve

FOOD AND DRINK �

been sourcing as much as we can like our pork and cheese from the area.

We’re not focused on particular trends.

We gravitate more towards using fine ingredients that are presented in an artistic way.”

Chris’s culinary vision is brought to life by his head chef Mihai who works with two sous chefs to devise a menu that boasts eclectic yet beautifully presented offerings such as tea smoked duck breast, seared sea bream with lime risotto cake and ham hock ballotine.

“Mihai is very passionate and puts his heart into everything,” Chris comments. “I love to cook too so together we have created a very nice menu which we change regularly. We’re forever developing and growing with the seasons.”

And it’s not just the presentation of the dishes that will impress

diners. The restaurant itself has had an elegant makeover – think stripped back wooden floors, exposed beams, period paintings and crisp white linen cloths and gleaming silver cutlery on every table.

It’s clearly a combination that has worked as plenty of residents and satisfied customers from further afield are coming back to the 16th century establishment on a regular basis.

“People have been very happy with what we’ve done. We have some clients who dine here on a weekly basis as they have certain favourite dishes such as our tiger prawns and Sussex Cross filet steak.

The restaurant’s beautiful location is another big draw and something that is quite unique to us.”

The Riverside’s excellent service has also been a vital factor of its success. There are five people in charge of looking after the front of house alone.

“We’re very hot on all that,” YOUR HOST reveals Chris.

Chris Larman “We do pay

81

a lot of attention to our customers as we want them to enjoy a first class experience.”

But it’s not all about dining à la Lamb cutllets carte. Chris and with polenta his team have and wilted recently started spinach offering classic roasts too which he says are ‘going down a storm.’

“The new Sunday menu offers sirloin of beef, huge homemade Yorkshire puddings, tangy apple sauce made on the premises and the crispiest of crackling to go with our pork.”

So as the weather turns more clement and the days stretch out just that little bit longer it would seem that The Riverside is the perfect place to be.

The Riverside www.theriverside.uk.com

Wednesday 11th May 2016

82  TRAVEL

The quiet life in beautiful Brac

By Hannah Stephenson IT’S the school summer holidays, when families flock to popular Mediterranean hotspots, vie for towel space on beaches and jostle for swimming space in seas teeming with inflatables.

No such jostling on the Croatian island of Brac (pronounced ‘Bratch’), separated from the mainland by the Adriatic, a 45-minute ferry ride away from the heat and madness of Split.

It’s one of the unspoilt gems of the archipelago, a glorious mixture of limestone hills, ravines and gorges, whose beaches in the capital Supetar

Wednesday 11th May 2016

have recently been recognised under the White Flag programme for ecologically clean sea water.

There are crystal clear bays, coves and immaculately clean pebble beaches all along the quiet coastline of the island, the largest of the central Dalmatian group of islands and the third largest in the Adriatic at 40km long and 12.5km wide. And the vast majority of them are quiet.

You can island hop, taking day excursions to the party island of Hvar and to sleepy Solta, but there’s plenty on Brac to keep the family amused for at least a week.

Here’s a selection of top quiet coastal spots which the whole family can enjoy...

Splitska Around 15 minutes’ drive from Supetar is the sleepy harbour town of Splitska, where small motor craft and yachts share space with families swimming and fishing on neighbouring rocks.

Shaped in a horseshoe on the winding, rocky coastal road in the north, with beautiful traditional stone houses cut into the rock face, it’s so clean that young locals happily swim off the harbour wall.

It’s the port from which Roman settlers sent the mined stone used to construct the Diocletian Palace in Split, and the stone has also been used on the White House in Washington and important

buildings in Europe. Culture vultures should head to the 13th-century Church of St Mary and admire the 16th-century citadel.

Murvica On the south side of the island, around 38km (a 50-minute drive) from Supetar, this stunning white pebble beach is a short stroll from the busier and more famous Bol, but give me Murvica any day.

It’s a bit of a hike to get there, as you have to park at the top and then walk down a fairly steep, rough walkway – not suitable for buggies – but when you see the azure sea as you approach, you’ll know it’s worth it.

TRAVEL 

BAY WATCH A beach on Bol overlooked by a convent

There’s plenty of shade from the overhanging pine trees and, while you will inevitably bump into a few other visitors, the sizzling sound of cicadas will drown out any noise of tourism.

Take respite in the Seven Olives, the only bar on a nearby terrace, where you can sit in a deck chair enjoying a plate of calamari under the olive trees or shelter under the wicker awning, overlooking the stunning bay.

Boboviska This gorgeous hidden harbour on the west coast, around 20 minutes’ drive from Supetar on the main road, has a population of only 450 and has become a haven for rich Russians with serious yachts who buy or rent the stylish hillside houses and apartments.

I suspect the concrete platforms from which visitors swim and sunbathe along this stretch HIDDEN HARBOUR Sunbathe on the concrete platforms

‘Boboviska has become a haven for rich Russians who buy or rent the stylish hillside houses ’

of harbour and further around the promontory beyond are part and parcel of the rentals, although we plonked our towels down and weren’t moved on.

Its name is derived from ‘Bob’, which means broad bean in Croatian and is one of the main crops grown there, along with artichokes. I also see peach and almond trees, following the coastal path on foot.

Top tip: Park in the little car park at the entrance to the village. If you drive along the harbour on the narrow road, there is nowhere to turn around and you’ll end up having to reverse out, with the harbour wall on one side.

Lovrecina Perfect for families with young children, Lovrecina on the north coast, ten minutes east of Postira, is the only sandy beach on the island, a haven for those who love making sandcastles and paddling in the shallow waters. It’s accessible by road but much more fun by boat. Hire a six-seater traditional Dalmatian boat from Supertar (with the addition of a 5hp outboard engine on the back) and you can be there in half an hour. Boat rental is around 450 kn a day (£45) including fuel, and you can take it in turns to steer. If you want a beefier engine, you’ll need a boat licence.

Moor up in the bay, swim to the sandy shore and enjoy a drink in the modern bar on a terrace above the beach, bordered by local limestone walls.

83

inflatables crashing through the waves behind souped-up speedboats.

There’s an air of cool about this slightly more sophisticated resort, where beachside shacks sell smoothies and crepes, and couples enjoy cocktails on decked bars adorned with wicker sofas under cream-coloured parasols.

While it’s considerably busier than all the other bays, it’s still pristinely clean. Snorkellers are unlikely to find plastic bottles and other eyesores at the bottom of the sea Top tip: Avoid paying top dollar for loungers and umbrellas. Sitting in the pine-clad woods at the entrance to the beach is much cheaper – and you’re closer to the bars.

TRAVEL FACTS Hannah Stephenson was a guest of Thomas Cook (www.thomascook.com/holidays/croatia; 0844 412 5970) who offer seven nights at the four-star Sentido Kaktus in Supetar from £1,090 for a family of four, on an all-inclusive basis.

Price based on two adults and two children sharing a family room and includes return flights from London Gatwick on October 6, 2016.

Regional departures also available.

Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.net/carhire) offers car hire in Croatia from £6 per day in May.

Zlatni Rat The island’s most famous beach, a long triangular spit of pebbled land sticking out into the sea like an enormous wishbone which changes shape depending on the tide, is featured in virtually every Croatian tourist brochure. Adrenaline junkies can get their fix of watersports, from pedalos to parasailing, or

Wednesday 11th May 2016

84 � LIFE AND STYLE LOCAL AGENCY AWARDED MARK OF QUALITY FROM GUILD OF MASTER CRAFTSMAN Alexandre Boyes are proud to become a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, having been awarded The Guild’s coveted Certificate of Quality and Service. This prestigious mark of quality has also been awarded to other well known establishments including Harrods, Aston Martin, and Fortnum & Mason.

Alexandre Boyes are a multi-disciplined company, currently regulated by the Association of Residential Lettings (ARLA) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) for our sales, lettings and block management departments, and now regulated by the Guild for our maintenance department.

We recognise the importance of being able to offer a quick and reliable maintenance service to our clients so we introduced an in-house property maintenance team in 2015. The team respond to repairs and maintenance requests from our clients through our block management and lettings teams and assist with general repairs, decorating, carpentry, plumbing, kitchen and bathroom fitting, and roof repairs.

DIVE INTO THE WORLD OF OPEN WATER SWIMMING Open water swimming is described as the fastest growing sport in the UK, opening up rivers, lidos and lakes to sports enthusiasts.

New organisation TriSwim has been launched in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, to give athletes in the south east the chance to swim at five stunning outdoor locations, including the lake at Hever castle.

Many people take part in open water swimming while training and competing in events such as triathlons. It was an Ironman endurance competition which inspired 30 year old Laura Ansell, from Tunbridge Wells, to use her experience as a junior international competitive athlete and coach, to launch TriSwim, providing the equipment, coaching and facilities to help anyone over the age of 8 to try the sport.

Laura said: “The idea of swimming outdoors can be daunting at first but we have the right expert coaches and safety staff to help people explore the open water, in a safe and friendly environment and really enjoy the experience. We want to encourage all levels of athlete from absolute beginners to those training for triathlons and races.”

TriSwim will provide individual changing tents and changing facilities, bag and shoe storage in lake-side secured tents, swimming platforms to enter and exit the water as well as a dedicated onsite shop selling BlueSeventy wetsuits and swim accessories with a specially trained wetsuit fitter. Participants will also be able to demo a wetsuit before they buy.

Fully qualified coaches can offer free advice and tips, and can also swim in the water with anyone who feels nervous. Staff will use cutting edge technology and radio communications to help maintain the safety of the swimmers.

Laura added: “Nothing compares to the freedom and excitement of swimming in open water. I want TriSwim to help as many people as possible to try this amazing sport and discover the exhilaration of getting fit in our beautiful surroundings”.

For interview and photography/filming requests, contact Laura Ansell on 01892 671320 For more information, go to www.triswim.org.uk, Facebook //www.facebook.com/TriSwimKent/ Twitter @triswimKent, Instagram TriSwimLtd

THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL The Wealden Times Midsummer Fair and Wellbeing Festival returns to the idyllic Hole Park Estate, near Rolvenden in Kent, on Thursday 9th, Friday 10th and Saturday 11th June, kindly supported by Harpers and Hurlingham. This high-end shopping and culinary event, with inspiring festival programme including headliner Rosemary Shrager, promises to be a highlight of the year for visitors and exhibitors.

Over 250 hand-picked stalls of desirable contemporary and vintage homeware, garden accessories, seasonal fashion and beautifully crafted jewellery – will not disappoint those with an eye for style and originality!

A host of artisan food and drink producers will be showcasing a taste of luxury to take home, while street food-vendors serve up an eclectic mix of local and international dishes. Drinks will include everything from health-boost smoothies to quirky cocktails.

Kate Boyes, Director of Lettings and Block Management said “To become a member of the Guild is such an honour as it demonstrates the level of skill and customer service that our maintenance team provide. The Guild of Master Craftsmen is a fantastic institution with some prestigious members! This membership will ensure that our clients know that they receive the very best service from us”.

About the Guild: · The Guild of Master Craftsmen is the UK’s most established trade association representing skilled tradesmen who strive for excellence in workmanship. · All Guild members have been assessed and vetted to earn the right to be called master craftsmen. · Once accepted into membership they are required to maintain the Guild’s aims and objectives. · In the event of any dispute, The Guild of Master Craftsmen has a proven procedure for conciliation.

The Priceless People Wellbeing Festival, in association with Benenden Healthcare and Hospital, brings together a variety of talks and workshops examining the healing properties of traditional and alternative therapies. Highlights include the TV chef and local cookery school proprietor, Rosemary Shrager, sharing her experiences filming the BBC’s The Real Marigold Hotel and exclusively revealing her thoughts on the healing power of India’s food and culture. TV personality and up-cycler extraordinaire, Max McMurdo, will be transforming unloved items into works of art for the garden.

All of this, set in a unique meadow setting, with a majestic country house for a backdrop, makes a quintessentially British day out.

For your 20% discounted ticket, go online and quote TWTMSF16 www.wealdentimes.co.uk/events 01580 714705

TUNBRIDGE WELLS INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR SCHOOLS COMPETITION We recently had the judging of our schools award at the sponsor’s office Thomson, Snell & Passmore. From the left Thomson, Snell & Passmore’s Gilbert Green, Andrew James RP, Andrew Fairfax of the Fairfax Gallery on The Pantiles and Jeremy O’Keeffe ARPS. Thomson. Snell & Passmore’s Jenna Cooper and Louise Giblin Body Cast Sculptor on the right.

Michael Harding Oil Colours have kindly donated 3 sets of paints to the winner and 2 runners up again this year.

We would like to thank all the schools who submitted work once again it was of a very high standard. Schools whose students work was selected are The Skinners’ School, Kent College, Hillview School for Girls, The Skinners’ Academy, Sevenoaks School, Weald of Kent School for Girls, Bexhill High School, Walthamstow Hall School and Benenden School.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

MOTORING 

FIRST DRIVE

85

VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN

FACTS AT A GLANCE PRICE: from £22,500 ENGINE: 2.0-litre diesel producing 148bhp and 340Nm TRANSMISSION: Seven-speed automatic

By Ed Wiseman WHAT’S NEW? When you think of Volkswagen, you think of Golf. The legendary family hatch has been the German brand’s best performer in the UK for years, pursued by the slightly smaller Polo. But in third place is the Tiguan, an unsung hero of Wolfsburg’s expansive range.

The latest generation of this compact SUV is based on the MQB platform that forms the foundation of the Golf and Passat, as well as other VW Group cars from Seat and Skoda.

It’s been upgraded visually and borrows in-car tech from Audi, making the Tiguan’s interior one of the most up-to-date in its sector.

All of this is a huge improvement on the already-good Tiguan, which had just begun to feel dated.

LOOKS AND IMAGE The Tiguan’s chiselled, Germanic features set it apart from more fluid-looking rivals.

It’s a handsome car and has much more road presence than the outgoing generation, which didn’t benefit from Volkswagen’s current design language. Short overhangs at the front and rear are hugely beneficial off-road and add to the chunky, utilitarian aesthetic of this fundamentally road-orientated car.

The inside of the car is largely well-built, but in comparison to the price tag (around £25,000 for a sensible Tiguan), the materials used are disappointing in places. Beige plastic dominates the front below knee-height, though the seats are fetching and the soft-touch plastic feels built to last.

Volkswagen’s image has been undeniably dented by its emissions scandal, but that’s unlikely to put buyers off. The VW badge is still an upmarket — if conventional — choice. The upcoming Seat Ateca, which is mechanically similar but has a much lower starting price, could represent better value for buyers who like the Tiguan, but aren’t fussed about brand.

never compare with a well-driven Range Rover, but the ground clearance, four-wheel-drive system and short overhangs combine to make an unnecessarily good utility vehicle. External cameras situated around the vehicle can be used to help visualise difficult terrain from the comfort of the cab, too.

SPACE AND PRACTICALITY There’s more room in the Tiguan than before, but tall people will find the back seats cramped.

Legroom has been improved, but avoid the flimsy plastic tables — they fill the extra space with hard plastic that will bruise the knees of your rear passengers. Door bins are large and storage is generally excellent throughout the cabin.

The boot can theoretically hold over 600 litres of luggage, depending on the exact position of the adjustable rear seats. Those rear seats can be adjusted or folded down with a tug of a small spring-loaded tab — a very user-friendly system.

When the seats are folded down, the Tiguan boasts 1,655 litres of space for those occasional garden centre trips.

BEHIND THE WHEEL Volkswagen has lengthened the wheelbase of the Tiguan, making it slightly more comfortable on British roads. The Tiguan is also a few pounds lighter, with clever weight savings mitigating the added weight of all the new convenience and safety tech. Noticeably light steering suggests that the Tiguan has been optimised for urban and suburban driving.

But buyers of the 4x4 Tiguan will be pleasantly surprised at how adept their new car is at handling quite serious off-road challenges. It will

‘Noticeably light steering suggests that the Tiguan has been optimised for urban and suburban driving’ An advanced infotainment system is available on the Tiguan. The instrument binnacle is digital, visually emulating a conventional speedometer and rev counter, but with much more flexibility.

The driver can choose to display Google Maps, including satellite imagery — while this often duplicates information found on the centre console touchscreen, it’s a futuristic touch that helps maximise time spent looking at the road. A head-up display, showing the car’s current speed

PERFORMANCE: 124mph top speed, 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds ECONOMY: 50mpg combined EMISSIONS: 149g/km

in comparison to the prevailing speed limit, is another driver-orientated safety improvement.

VALUE FOR MONEY Volkswagen occupies a different market position to key rivals. The Qashqai, which continues to outsell its opposition quite convincingly, is an excellent car but has a cheaper image.

Similarly, offerings from Kia and Hyundai are very competent choices, but lack badge appeal. Yet the Tiguan isn’t as posh as the Evoque or Discovery Sport – it’s somewhere in between.

Prices for the Tiguan are comfortably higher than those for the Ateca, Seat’s MQB-based SUV. In fact, the Tiguan is an expensive choice, carefully positioned above most of its real competitors and with an options list that threatens to push it into a daunting price bracket. The Mazda CX-5 is just as good and much cheaper.

WHO WOULD BUY ONE? The Tiguan’s technology, safety features and eyecatching looks make it a great choice for families.

It’s on the pricey side, so the model is likely to continue to attract mainly well-heeled buyers who want the reassurance of the Volkswagen brand.

4x4 versions, likely to sell healthily in Britain, will be popular with horse owners and caravanners as well as country dwellers who need added traction in winter months.

THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD Trendy.

IF THIS CAR WAS A... ketchup it would be Heinz.

Functionally similar to any other ketchup, but priced and marketed in just the right way to become the obvious choice.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

86 n MOTORING

Our premises are lacated at Kingstanding Way Business Park in Tunbridge Wells.

We invite all new and seasoned enthusiasts to visit us today to find out more about our classic car restoration services.

We will use our experience to advise you on the best way to restore your classic, vintage or collectible car, and help you to revive its past glories.

• Fram full graund up restaratian ta summer check aver • Specialist mig and tig welding Full engine and gearbax rebuilds • We can lacate hard ta find parts, • In hause machining facilities • Vapaur blasting • Everything yau need ta care far yaur classic car ...

• Baak yaur mDT anline with us Contact details: H-Engineering Unit 12, 2, Kingstanding Way, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3UP 01892 549 042

Wednesday 11th May 2016

I

www.h-engineering.com

MOTORING �

87

FIAT SOOC LOUNGE 1.2 £15,450

On the Road Price

£750

Fiat Deposit Contr1but1on

£1,750

Customer Deposit

£12,950

Amount of Credit

£229

Monthly Payment Optional Final Payment (1ncl £10 fee) Total Amount Payable by Customer Duration of Contract Rate of Interest (Fixed)

£5,704 £15,698 37 months 3.47%

Representative 3.5% APR

THAMES MOTOR GROUP TUNBRIDGE WELLS, LONGFIELD ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT TN2 3EY. TEL: 01892 256074 WWW.THAMESMOTORGROUP.CO.UK Fuel consumption figures for new Fiat 500C range in mpg (11100km): Urban 51.4 (5.5) - 68.9 (4.1); Extra Urban 65.7 (4.3) - 94.2 (3.0); Combined 60.1 (4.7) - 83.1 (3.4). C02 emissions 110 - 88 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO, figures based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Promotion available on new Fiat SOOC Lounge 1.2 Series 4 models registered by 30th June 2016. Fiat Deposit Contribution only available in conjunction with Fiat i-Deal PCP. With Fiat i-Deal you have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of Gp per mile for exceeding 6,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition . Finance subject to status . Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditions apply. At participating dealers only. Fiat Financial Services, PO BOX 4465, Slough, SL1 ORW. We work with a number of creditors including Fiat Financial Services .

Model shown is the Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe at OTR £52,505. Range of official fuel consumption figures for the Alfa Romeo 4C range: Urban 28.0 - 28.8 mpg (10.1- 9.81/lOOkm); Extra Urban 55.4 - 56.5 mpg (5.1-5.01/lOOkm); Combined 40.9 - 41.5 mpg (6.9 - 6.81/lOOkm). C0 2 emissions 161 - 157 g/ km. Fuel consumption and co, figures are obta ined for comparative purposes in accordance with ECdirectives/regulationsand may not be representative of real-life driving cond itions. Promotion ava ilable on new Alfa Romeo 4C models registered between 4th May and 30th June 2016. With Alfa Romeo Preferenza you have the option to return the veh icle and not pay the final payment, subject to the veh icle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 6p per mile for exceed ing 6,000 miles per annum in this example) and being in good condition. Fin ance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and Conditi ons apply. At participating Dealers only.

Alfa Romeo Financial Services, POBOX 4465, Slough, SL1 ORW. We work with a number of cred itors includ ingAlfa Romeo Fin ancial Services .

Wednesday 11th May 2016

88 � MOTORING NEWS

New Cayman quick off mark JUST weeks after the first media drives of the new turbocharged 718 Boxster, Porsche has unveiled the matching 718 Cayman.

It uses the same 2.0-litre 296bhp and 2.5-litre 345bhp flat-four engines in the new Cayman and Cayman S variants, the latter making use of variable vane turbo geometry technology taken from the 911 Turbo.

The extra power makes the Cayman S as fast off the line as the 911, notching up the 0-62mph sprint in 4.2 seconds with the PDK gearbox and Sport Chrono packs installed.

Official fuel efficiency is up to as much as 40.9mpg in the 2.0-litre car, while top speeds are 170mph and 177mph.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

The suspension has been stiffened and the wheels and tyres made wider, in order to extract even more lateral grip from a car already well known for its cornering prowess.

Porsche has upgraded the brakes, too. The Cayman wears the system from the previous Cayman S, while the new S makes use of the fourpiston calipers from the 911 Carrera, plus 6mm thicker discs.

As with the Boxster, two levels of Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) are available,

lowering the car by 10mm and 20mm respectively, although the latter is only available on S models.

On the inside, Porsche Communication Management is now standard, to include mobile phone preparation, audio interfaces and a 150-Watt stereo.

For the first time the Cayman is priced below the Boxster, mirroring the 911 range where the soft-top is the more expensive option. The range starts from £39,878, with the Cayman S at £48,834.

Everyone who places an order for the 718 Cayman will be granted a complementary driving experience held at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

Please tread carefully TYRE giant Bridgestone is calling for mandatory fines for people who drive on defective or illegally worn tyres.

Currently, the three-point penalty and maximum £2,500 fine per tyre are not compulsory and require a formal prosecution to enforce.

But the tyre maker is asking the Government to follow Ireland’s lead in introducing a fixed penalty similar to those issued for speeding or using a mobile phone.

Bridgestone UK’s Managing Director Robin Shaw said: “There are literally millions of tyres on our roads which are illegal and pose a danger to other motorists’ lives.

“Because tyres are the only contact points between a car and the road, their condition plays a huge factor in overall road safety.

“We think that a fixed charge notice would keep the issue firmly in people’s minds, whilst encouraging everyone to take some simple tyre safety checks which literally take seconds to carry out.”

A survey by TyreSafe and Highways England of the tread depth of tyres when they were replaced, from February to May 2015, showed more than a quarter of all drivers had an illegal tyre on their vehicle.

The figures suggest that as many as 10 million tyres on UK roads were dangerous and illegal last year.

Shaw added: “The average stopping distance of a new tyre with 8mm tread depth is around 26 metres compared to around 38 metres on a worn tyre at 1.6mm tread depth. So it can literally be a matter of life and death.”

MASERATI GHIBLI DIESEL. FROM £399 A MONTH +VAT.* You kno w you ha ve always wanted to own a Maserati. Now there is absolutely nothing to hold you back.

The Ghibli Diesel is every inch a Maserati, featuring a gorgeous, coupe-like silhouette, luxury leather interior and with its economical yet potent diesel engine, 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, there are also plent y of rational reasons to justify your decision.

MASERATI

MOTORLINE MASERATI MAIDSTONE BIR CHOLT ROAD, MAID STONE, ME15 9XY Phone : 0162 2 616 LQL,

I

Web : www. motorline .eo .uk / ma s erati

www. ma s erati .co .uk

Offi cial fuel cons umpti on fi gur es for t he Mase rati Gh ibl i Di esel in mpg llitres/100 km] : Urban 36 .7 17.71, Extr a Urban 57.6 li.j .9], Comb ined l.j7_9 15.91. C0 2 em iss ions on comb ined cycle : 158 g/km . Fuel consumption and CO, figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. *BUSINESS USERS ONLY. Model shown is Maserati Ghibli Diesel MY16 V6d ljdr Auto. Contract Hire payment profile of £/j,788 +VAT in advance, followed by 35 monthly rentals of £399 +VAT. Rentals shown above exclude maintenance and are based on 8,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charge apply. Finance subject to status. Guarantees and indemnities may be required, we work with a number creditors including Maserati Financial Services. Vehicles must be registered with FCA Fleet Services UK Ltd by 30th June 2016. PO Box lj590, Slough, Berkshire SU OWU.

90 n MOTORING

www.lifestyleford.co.uk

Tunbridge Wells 01892 739131

Tonbridge 01732 758 726

Redhill 01737 336 446

Crawley 01293 853 925

Horsham 01403 289 293

KentTN4 BAG

KentTN9 lTN

Surrey RHl lSJ

W.Sussex RHlO 9PY

W.Sussex RH121QJ

Official fuel consumption figure s in mpg (11100km) for the Ford Kuga range: urban 30.4 (9.3 ) - 52.3 (5.4 ), extra urban 45.6 (6.2) - 65.7 (4.3), combined 38.2 (7.4) - 60.l (4.7) . Official CO, emissions 171-122g/km .

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Based on limited stock vehicles only and must be ordered and registered between 01.04.16 and 30.06.16. *Finance example shown available over a f inance period of 37 months with £2,354.89 customer deposit, £1,700 deposit allowance, £4,054.89 total deposit. Amount of credit £20,940.11. Charge for credit £1,410.89. Finance Facility fee £10. Purchase Fee £10. Total amount payable £26,425.89.

Optional f inal payment £11,587. 2.9% APR, 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charged at Bp per mile. When f inanced with Ford Credit. Finance subject to status. Other charges for metallic paint and extra factory options. Must be over 18 and a full UK resident. Guarantees/ indemnities may be required. Freepost Ford Credit. Prices correct at time of going to print and are subject to change without notice. Subject to availability at Lifestyle Ford. Lifestyle Ford reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time and without notice. Lifestyle Ford Head Office 3 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 BAG. Images for illustration purposes only, metallic paint available at an extra cost.

GO TO TOWN krazoa2 £119 PER MONTH

0%8EEI~: WITH A £500 ' MAZDA DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION

36 Monthly Payments of

£119

- Customer Deposit

£3,474.62

- Optional Final Payment

£4,596.38

INVICTA MAZDA TUNBRIDGE WELLS Tunbridge Wells Business Park, Dowding Way, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3DS 01892 597726 www.invicta-mazda .co .uk

zoom-zoom

Th e o ff ic ia l fu el co nsumpti o n fi g ures in mpg ( 1/ l OOk m) fo r th e Ma zda2 r a nge: Urban 43 .5 (6.5) - 74 .3 (3 .8). Extra Urba n 6 8 .9 (4 .1 ) - 8 8. 3 (3.2) . Co mbin ed 56 .5 ( 5 .0) - 83. 1 (3.4). Co2 emi ss io ns (g/ km ) 117 - 89.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced f rom official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory test ing. These are provided for comparab ility purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results .

Retail sales only, subject to availability for veh icles register ed bet ween 01.04.16 and 30.06.16 at participating dealers. T&C apply. *0 % APR Mazda Personal Contract Purchase available on all Mazda2 models. "'£500 Mazda2 petrol models, excluding Sport Black, and £1,250 Mazda2 diesel models. At the end of the agreement there are 3 opt ions: (i) Part exchange the vehicle. (ii) Pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) Ret urn the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Based on 9,000 miles per annum; excess mileage charge of 14.9p per mile applies. Finance subject to st atus, 18s or over. Guarantee may be requ ired. Mazda fi nancial Services RHl lSR. Model shown: Mazda2 75ps SE, OTR from £12,195. Model shown features optional Soul Red Metallic pa int (£660). OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months' road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years' European Roadside Assistance. Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to print. Not available in conjunct ion with any other offer unless specified.

Cambria automobiles pie , trading as lnvicta Mazda is a credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

Wednesday 11th May 2016

ilO S 1.0

i20 S 1.2

i30 S 1.4

Tuscan S 1.7 [rdi

from £7,995

from £9,995

from £12,995

from £17,720

HVUnDRI

Tunbridge Wells Hyundai

Medway Hyundai

Unit l , Dowding Way, Tunbridge Wells Tn2 3LJY

London Road, Rainham Kent MES 8PT

01892 458311

01634 408408

VNVW.kenthyundai.co.uk

FUEL consUMPTI On MPG (L/lOOl<M) FOR HYUnDAI RAnGE: URBAn 18.0 (157) - 80.7 (35), EXTRA URBAn 32.8 (86) - 94.2 (30), COMBlnED 25.2 (11 2) -88.3 (3.2), CO, EMISSIOns 261 -84G/l<M. FUEL consUMPTIOn: FIGURES SHOWn ARE BASED on OFFICIAL EU TEST FIGURES. THESE ARE TO BE USED AS A GUIDE FOR COM PARATIVE PURPOSES Ano MAY noT REFLECT ALL DRIVlnG RESULTS. *2 YEARS FREE SERVIClnG onLY TO BE VALID AT TUnBRIDGE WELLS OR MEDWAY HYUnDAI. i10 S 1.0, 42 monthly payments of £152.94, Customer deposit £151.00, Hyundai deposit contribution Total £151.00, Cash price of vehicle £7,995.00, Total amount of credit £6,423.48, Interest charges £1,286.73, Total amount payable £9,281.73, Optional final payment £2,707.25, Duration of agreement 42 months, Fixed rate of interest per year 3.55% Mileage per annum 10,000 Representative 6.9% APR. New i20 S 1.2, 42 monthly payments of £162.84, Customer deposit £162.00, Hyundai manufactures deposit £1,000 , Total £1,162.00, Cash price of vehicle £9,995.00, Total amount of credit £8,833.00, Interest charges £1499.78, Total amount payable £11,494.78, Optional final payment £3493.50, Duration of agreement 42 months, Rate of interest% (fixed) 3.55% p.a. Estimated annual mileage 10,000. Excess mileage charge per mile 14.9p per mile 6.9% APR. i30 1.4i S, Terms of agreement 37 months, Monthly payments of £186.84, On the road cash price• £12995.00, Customer deposit £27 48.75, Manufacturers Finance deposit contribution £500.00, Total deposit £3248.75,Total amount of credit £97 46.25, Interest charges £1484.99, Optional final payment £4505.00, Total amount payable £14479.99, Interest Rate % (fixed) 3.55% p.a. Excess mileage charge per mile 14.9p, Estimated annual mileage 10000, Representative APR (%) 6.9% APR. Tucson 1. 7 CRDI 116PS Blue Drive, 42 Monthly payments of £209.00, Customer deposit of £2,500.00, Hyundai deposit contribution of £1,500, Total £4,000, Cash price of Vehicle £17,720.00, Total amount of credit £13,720.00, Interest charges £2,568.50, Total amount payable £20,288.50, Optional final payment £7,510.50, Duration of agreement 42 months, APR% 6.9% p.a, Excess mileage 14.9p, Estimated annual mileage. Terms and conditions apply.

PUZZLES 

DOUBLE CROSSWORD

gingili oil (6) 15. In social class the first of the Hindus is unsullied (6) 17. See 3 Down 18. It’s a dim thing to change just before the small hours (8) 21. Granted it’s what the fertile seed did (7) 22. Transport the first of the maize straw (5) 23. He makes comprehensive

plans, but the artist gets confused (10) Down 1. To acknowledge applause with some hesitation in shady enclosure (5) 2 and 8 Ac. Cambrian version of the Mother Country?

(4,2,2,7) 3 and 17 Ac. Presumably skating instructors don’t participate in these clerical duties! (6,4) 4. Convivial occasion held in cafe tea-room (4) 5. It’s illegal to use them for smoking jackets! (7) 6. Abruptly escapes and has a shattering effect on holiday (6,4) 9. When one takes at least one course before retiring (6-4) 12. Kidnap a sailor in China (8) 14. Glut of various fruits round the East (7) 16. Winger that is singularly below par! (6) 19. Having a pinched appearance in imitating auntie (5) 20. One endlessly cherished conception (4) Scribble pad

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

14

15

R

1

2

3

9

10

14

15

8

11

4

16 13

12

7

QUICK CLUES:

Across 1. Decisive (10) 7. Crawl (5) 8. Double (7) 10. Lifted (8) 11. Unhearing (4) 13. Disorderly (6) 15. Rural (6) 17. Too (4) 18. Apt (8) 21. Captivate (7) 22. Alarm (5) 23. Heedless (10)

Down 1. Hearten (5) 2. Wedding (8) 3. Epistle (6) 4. Evince (4) 5. Forceful (7) 6. Amass (10) 9. Lack (10) 12. Numerous (8) 14. Favour (7) 16. Threw (6) 19. Reward (5) 20. Region (4)

6

5

1. Male deer 9. Brown seaweed 2. Present 10. Chessman 3. Pith helmet 11. Inert gas 4. Tiny amount 12. Unfeeling 5. Hairstyle 13. Stain 6. Expel 14. Petty argument 7. Extend journey 15. Company 8. Status 16. Untidy state Keyword clue: A famous composer

SUDOKU

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

A

1.

2.

Which of the judges on BBC1’s The Voice had no acts in this year’s final?

Keeley Hawes plays a 1930s mother who uproots her family to Corfu in which new ITV1 drama series?

3. Which British electronic group recently released the album Barbara Barbara, We Face a Shining Future?

4. Which new film starring Chris Evans and Robert Downey, Jr. is the thirteenth in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

5.

Which classic children’s TV series, narrated by Johnny Morris during the 1970s, featured Hammy the Hamster, Roderick the Water Rat and G. P. the Guinea Pig?

6. Beautiful Lies is the third and current album from which British songstress?

7.

Which 1948 musical film starred Fred Astaire as Broadway star Don Hewes, who took on an ingénue played by Judy Garland?

8. Which actress is playing former detective Marcella in the new ITV1 drama of that name?

9. What was US songstress Gloria Gaynor’s only UK Number One hit, in March 1979?

SOLUTIONS

10. Which actress plays high school teacher Grace Wesley, who is facing a court case that could end her career in the new film God’s Not Dead 2?

11. Which new BBC1 drama stars Sophie Okonedo as Maya Cobbina, a British lawyer who has spent 20 years in the States?

12. The Love Cats and Lullaby were Top Ten hits of the 1980s for which British rock band?

13. Which 1951 Ealing comedy starred Alec Guinness as Sidney Stratton, a scientist undone by his own invention?

14. Which former Top Gear host is The Reassembler in the new BBC4 series of that name?

15. Which US hard rock band’s hits of the 1980s included Patience and Paradise City?

16 Mess.

Keyword: ROSSINI CODEWORD: 1=E, 2=R, 3=L, 4=Y, 5=B, 6=S, 7=H, 8=F, 9=I, 10=N, 11=Q, 12=V, 13=A, 14=P, 15=W, 16=X, 17=D, 18=Z, 19=C, 20=M, 21=K, 22=T, 23=J, 24=O, 25=G, 26=U ENTERTAINMENT QUIZ: 1 Paloma Faith; 2 The Durrells; 3 Underworld; 4 Captain America: Civil War; 5 Tales of the River Bank; 6 Birdy; 7 Easter Parade; 8 Anna Friel; 9 I Will Survive; 10 Melissa Joan Hart; 11 Undercover; 12 The Cure; 13 The Man in the White Suit; 14 James May; 15 Guns N’ Roses SUDOKU:

Codeword is the crossword puzzle with no clues. The number in each square corresponds to a letter. Work out the words in the grid using the letters provided. Fill in these known letters first, then use skill and judgement to work out the others.

2

Starting from 1, fill in the grid clockwise with four-letter words. The last letter of each word becomes the first letter of the next to reveal the key word in the shaded boxes.

ENTERTAINMENT QUIZ

CODEWORD

1

WORD SPIRAL

DOUBLE CROSSWORD: Cryptic: Across: 1 Bill of fare; 7 Rowan; 8 Fathers; 10 Air Force; 11 Peep; 13 Sesame; 15 Chaste; 17 Work; 18 Midnight; 21 Yielded; 22 Haulm; 23 Strategist. Down: 1 Bower; 2 Land of my; 3 Office; 4 Fete; 5 Reefers; 6 Breaks away; 9 Supper-time; 12 Shanghai; 14 Surfeit; 16 Birdie; 19 Gaunt; 20 Idea.

Quick: Across: 1 Conclusive; 7 Creep; 8 Twofold; 10 Upraised; 11 Deaf; 13 Unruly; 15 Rustic; 17 Also; 18 Suitable; 21 Enthral; 22 Panic; 23 Regardless.

Down: 1 Cheer; 2 Nuptials; 3 Letter; 4 Show; 5 Violent; 6 Accumulate; 9 Deficiency; 12 Multiple; 14 Rosette; 16 Hurled; 19 Bonus; 20 Area.

WORD SPIRAL: 1 Stag; 2 Gift; 3 Topi; 4 Iota; 5 Afro; 6 Oust; 7 Tour; 8 Rank; 9 Kelp; 10 Pawn; 11 Neon; 12 Numb; 13 Blot; 14 Tiff; 15 Firm;

CRYPTIC CLUES: Across 1. Traveller’s account showing variety of food available (4,2,4) 7. Grow any tree inside (5) 8. See 2 Down 10. Pneumatic power for branch of national defence (3,5) 11. Take a crafty look both ways (4) 13. Seems a different source of

93

Wednesday 11th May 2016

,,

,, I

I

I

~

~

,,

, ,'

,,

---- -- - --- ....... ........ .... ,,

MAY SPECIAL

Enjoy 30째/o OFF our Bistro menu with this Voucher

Name ......................................................................................................................................... .

Address ..................................................................................................................................

Telephone .............................................................................................................................

Email ............................................................................................................................................ *Valid until 27th May 2016. Offer only available with the completion and presentation of this voucher.

Terms & conditions apply.

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

Leaving school or want a change?

IF YOU have a genuine passion for becoming a talented stylist, take pride in what you do, have a warm personality and are prepared to work hard and go the extra mile to make sure all our clients get the best possible service, then we want to hear from you!

Hair Workshop, Paddock Wood has been established for over 25 years and we have a team of experienced stylists with a wealth of knowledge to share with you. We constantly strive to provide our team with a warm, friendly yet professional environment in which to practise their creative skills.

The right candidate will receive weekly salon training covering all aspects of hairdressing from our highly skilled stylists. As well as working with a partnership college we work closely with Redken and Goldwell, and you will have the opportunity to train at their innovative academies in London and the chance to become a Goldwell Master Colourist.

At the end of your training you will qualify with an NVQ level 2 with the opportunity to go on further and gain Level 3 and barbering qualifications.

Hair Workshop aim to employ 99 per cent of all their apprentices as Stylists, giving you great training and the prospect of future employment, your career opportunities within hairdressing are endless. You could progress from salon work into educating, training or even management.

You must be passionate about hair, motivated, hard-working, have a good positive attitude, enjoy working in a team and have excellent communication skills.

Send CV to stylist.info@aol.co.uk, call us 01892 834100 or drop in and pick up an application form at 107 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood TN12 6DS.

95

The age of apprenticeship

After finishing school there are many different paths available, and apprenticeships are becoming ever more popular…

of support to both new and existing staff through our learning and development programmes.

Once an apprentice has completed their training programme, we are then able to assist with their continued professional development with over 300 courses, including classroom learning, online learning and professional qualifications up to degree level. By providing apprenticeship programmes that offer a genuine development pathway we are giving the young people in our community the opportunity to start and drive a fantastic career within Markerstudy, a diverse and prosperous group of companies and, most importantly, a fantastic place to work. It’s incredibly exciting and an honour to be able to support young people as they take their first steps into the world of work.”

If this opportunity sparks your interest and you would like further information on being a part of ALEX then visit ALEX.markerstudygroup.com or email ALEX@markerstudy.com

EYES ON THE I-PRIZE Markerstudy apprentice Lewis Salter receives free iPad

THOSE looking to join a scheme with a toprated, award-winning company may just be in luck. Starting in September 2016, Markerstudy Group of Companies, a dynamic privately-owned organisation, is providing young people with the opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge alongside practical work experience with its apprenticeship programme, ALEX. Employing almost 4,000 people across the UK and Gibraltar, the business has been listed in and named as ‘Extraordinary’ in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For for four years in a row.

With a variety of opportunities to gain outstanding knowledge and skills and a competitive salary of £10,000 per year plus benefits, to boot, this may be ‘just the ticket’ for young people looking for an apprenticeship with that added ‘WOW’ factor!

The business has developed a unique and innovative apprenticeship scheme called ALEX (Apprenticeship Learning EXperience) that not only offers learners two more qualifications than standard apprenticeships but also provides 76 days of structured development across a number of year-long Intermediate (Level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3) in Tunbridge Wells, including occupations such as Talent Development,

Publishing, Marketing and Hospitality. Spaces in this esteemed company are limited, with 24 positions currently up for grabs in the Kent area.

Kent resident, Lewis Salter describes how he benefitted from joining Markerstudy as an apprentice straight out of school in 2013: “I joined Markerstudy in October 2013, uncertain of what to expect from an apprenticeship scheme. For me, this was a very daunting prospect as I’d only had a part-time job in a restaurant before so entering the ‘real world’ was both exciting and slightly nerveracking. Looking back, I don’t understand why I was so nervous, I have gained so much through my time here, not only an apprenticeship qualification in Level 2 Business and Administration within the Talent Development team but also bags of confidence in my abilities. I was keen to stay and have since been working in Talent Development and promoted three times! I’m so grateful that I took this opportunity. I love my job and can honestly say that based on my apprenticeship experience with Markerstudy, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction into the workplace.”

Tanya Gerrard-White, Director of HR and Talent Development commented: “At Markerstudy we pride ourselves in offering an outstanding level

Wednesday 11th May 2016

96 � RECRUITMENT

WITH THE

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND SEVENOAKS

NOT REALLY FITTING IN? SOMETIMES YOUR CURRENT POSITION JUST DOESN’T FEEL RIGHT...

FIND YOUR DREAM JOB WITH THE TIMES

Belvoir Tunbridge Wells are looking for a Trainee Sales and Lettings Negotiator who wants to become part of a growing estate agency in the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells. As part of an experienced team of dedicated staff you would learn the day to day running’s of a busy agency with an established managed portfolio.

This role requires the applicant to possess the following attributes; · EXCELLENT COMMUNICATOR · IMPRESSIVE WRITTEN SKILLS · TEAM PLAYER · ADMINISTRATION SKILLS · WELL ORGANISED

· SMART PERSONAL APPEARANCE · GOOD TIME KEEPING AND ABILITY TO PRIORITISE · KEEN TO LEARN AND ABLE TO FOLLOW PROCESSES CAREFULLY.

For more details and to apply for this exciting role, please contact John Haynes on : john.a.haynes@belvoir.co.uk

School Crossing Patrol Officer, Housekeeper & Playground Assistant Post/s to start as soon as possible These roles could be interwoven to suit a couple or joined up for one person.

Please contact Rebecca Hall, Bursar: 01892 525837 or manager@themeadschool.co.uk for details and an application form.

The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

KEY STAGE 1 TEACHER (Maternity cover) AND TEACHING ASSISTANT (Reception)

Closing date for applications: 16th May 2016 The Mead School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Required for September 2016 Please contact Ann Green, Headmaster’s Secretary for further details Closing date for applications Monday, 16 May Rose Hill School, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN4 9SY Tel: 01892 525591 www.rosehillschool.co.uk admissions@rosehillschool.co.uk Rose Hill is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children Registered Charity No. 270158

Wednesday 11th May 2016

Fill your vacancy now in print or online.

For more information contact Jordanne Reville at jreville@markerstudy.com or call 01892 576049

RECRUITMENT �

•

97

•

ILnL

For more details/how to apply: http://www.trinitytheatre.net/About/staff or call 01892 678671

JU~ P IT Recruitment Solutions

JU~ P IT Recruitment Solutions

•

111\1 11111\ II

--

Wednesday 11th May2016

98 � ARTS & CULTURE

‘This is why I survived’ Russell Watson is the UK’s number one selling classical artist and he’s coming to Tunbridge Wells this Friday to perform at the Assembly Hall. Eileen Leahy tells of his fight against serious illness and explains what we can expect to enjoy when the world famous tenor showcases his new tour Songs From The Heart WITH seven million albums sold, four classical BRITS to his name and having performed for The Queen and several Popes and American Presidents, it’s fair to say that Russell Watson’s career has been nothing short of impressive.

He first came to the public’s attention in 1999 when he performed a mesmerising rendition of God Save The Queen at Wembley stadium for the Rugby League Challenge Cup final.

It was this powerful performance that

‘The show is far more condensed compared to what I normally do and the fans have been loving the intimacy’

Wednesday 11th May 2016

led to his phenomenally successful debut album The Voice - which hit the number one spots simultaneously in both the UK and US - and saw his profile soar to stratospheric heights.

But in 2007 Russell was diagnosed with a brain tumour and suddenly the dream fairy tale turned into a horrendous nightmare and saw him withdrawing from performing.

Russell, 49 and from Salford, is made of tough stuff though and after an intensive period of rehabilitation post his illness, which he describes as a ‘dark tunnel’, he slowly returned to the stage, singing his way back to good health courtesy of his unique blend of operatic arias, musical melodies and contemporary classics.

After headlining last year’s Proms in the Park, Russell decided to do something completely different and so got to work on a far more intimate affair, the result of which is his latest tour: Songs from the Heart.

He readily admits that it is a far more pared back production and very different to the experience of singing in stadiums but that’s something that Russell is clearly relishing.

“Audiences can really get up close and personal” he says.

“The show is far more condensed compared to what I normally do and

ARTS & CULTURE 

HEART AND SOUL Russell performing in his new show

99

Calculated seduction from the village players This weekend the Rotherfield Players will be putting on Neil Simon’s classic Plaza Suite. We spoke to their Chairperson Andy Miller about the production and the secret to the group’s ongoing success

the fans have been loving the intimacy.”

When Russell performs in Tunbridge Wells on Friday he’ll be a third of the way through his 56 date tour which finishes in August but after all he has been through the singer is enjoying performing more than ever.

“I feel a real sense of freedom when I walk on stage. It’s like this is what I was born to do. This is what I survived the illness and all those bad times for. If life is good and you’re happy then that shows, people in the crowd can see it and feel it.”

Songs from the Heart features a collection of classics from a number of musical genres such as

Volare, Barcelona and Abide With Me, and it perfectly showcases Russell’s talent for seamlessly switching from dramatic opera numbers to smooth American classics and uplifting hymnal anthems.

Russell says that the most special element to these concerts is the connection to the crowd.

“I can see people’s faces and I love that. These pared back shows have got a really relaxed, easy going feel to them.”

Russell Watson performs Songs From The Heart on Friday May 13 at the Assembly Hall at 7.30pm. For ticket information visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

How long have the Rotherfield Players been around?

Forty years. We performed our first production ‘The Happiest Days of Your Life’ in April 1976. It was directed by Alison Organ, the group’s original founder. Her daughter, Rachel Martin, has a leading role in this year’s Plaza Suite and her grandson, Dan Shaw, also features as the bellboy.

What is your approach to theatre?

We like to enjoy ourselves, whether we’re rehearsing or performing. We try to encourage the development of youngsters in the group and hope we achieve the highest quality performances possible.

How many members do you have?

Just over a hundred but we always welcome new ones, whether they wish to act, direct, produce, construct sets or do costumes. We also welcome any level of experience from none to professional.

Who can join the Rotherfield Players?

Anyone from the age of ten upwards.

The age range of our members is from ten to eighty plus.

How often do you put on performances?

We have in the past put on three to four productions each year, giving a mix of panto, serious drama, comedy and musicals.

Where do you perform?

Most of our productions are performed in Rotherfield Village

Hall but we have also acted out Shakespearean pieces in the Kings Arms’ garden, Little Voice in the Memorial Institute, and Godspell was put on in St Denys Church in 2007.

Why did you decide to do Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite?

It is a witty and entertaining set of one act plays giving a chance for three different sets of actors to perform a starring role, without the strain of learning the whole of a two hour production.

Players in July and will be putting on Annie get your Gun in October.

Plaza Suite can be seen from May 12 to 14 at 19.30 at Rotherfield Village Hall. Tickets are available from Rotherfield village stores and from the box office www.rotherfieldplayers.co.uk

The action takes place in Suite 719 of the famous Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. Play one explores the marriage vow ‘for better or for worse’. Play two is a sleek exercise in calculated seduction and play three is about a volatile man trying to cope with his daughter’s intransigence on her wedding day.

What are your plans for the rest of 2016?

We’re performing The Hound of the Baskervilles, in association with The Pantiles

THE HIGH LIFE New York’s Plaza Hotel

Wednesday 11th May 2016

100  WHAT’S ON SEVEN DAYS OF SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AT A GLANCE

WHATS ON WITH THE

Eileen Leahy

Local events

If you would like to see your events featured in our weekly What’s On pages please email info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Hole Park, Rolvenden A View From The Bridge

>> WEDNESDAY At Trinity theatre this evening there will be a screening of the much acclaimed Indian film Court.

It won top prize at the Venice Film Festival and its plot centres around a tale of prejudice, politics and corruption involving an ageing folk singer and activist who is blamed for a murder in Mumbai.

For ticket details and further information visit www.trinitytheatre.net Tonight the Old Fire Station in Tonbridge is hosting an Empty Bowls evening. This foodie event takes its culinary cue from similar events in America and will help to raise money for The

Bridge Trust. Guests buy a specially hand thrown ceramic bowl then select a tasty soup to put in it.

There will be three top chefs present on the night including Michelin star chef Daniel Hatton. >> THURSDAY Ightham Mote will host an afternoon of musical recitals from 12.30pm today by Kent ensemble Wind in the Weald. The historic house will come alive as the musicians play a selection of ambient chamber music. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ightham-mote There will be a screening of the National Theatre’s A View From The Bridge this evening at the EM Forster theatre in Tonbridge. The play, penned by Arthur Miller, is a dark tale full of jealousy, betrayal and passion. It tells the story of Eddie Carbone (played by Mark Strong, pictured above) who has to deal with the consequences of his Sicilian relatives coming to Brooklyn and impacting on his life. www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk Another American classic starts tonight, this time at the Stag Theatre in Sevenoaks which begins a three night run of the Guys and Dolls musical. Boasting a feelgood plotline and popular songs such as Luck Be A Lady Tonight and Sit Down You’re Rockin’ The Boat, audiences will love singing along to this romantic comedy.

Performances start every evening at 7.30pm with an additional matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm. For tickets visit www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk If you’d rather just sit back, relax and enjoy the early evening sunshine then don’t forget to pop along to Jazz on the Pantiles which features Sue Rivers Trio tonight. >> FRIDAY The annual Pembury Art & Craft fair starts this evening at St Peter’s Church and continues over the weekend. Visitors can expect an array of both professional and amateur artists displaying their work as well as lots of stalls selling Fairtrade products. Entrance costs £2 per adult.

The UK’s number one selling classical artist Russell Watson comes to the Assembly Hall this evening to perform his Songs from the Heart show.

Featuring a host of Russell’s best loved classical and contemporary performances backed by a fabulous live band it promises Mister Maker

Wednesday 11th May 2016

to be a memorable occasion.

To book tickets visit www.assemblyhalltheatre. co.uk (see our preview on p90) The first Tonbridge Comedy Night launches this evening at the EM Forster theatre. Starring a trio of top comedians -Howard Read, Paul Tonkinson and Tony Cowards – it promises to be a very good laugh! Tickets cost £12 and the performance starts at 7.30pm. For more information visit www. boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk >> SATURDAY Popular CBeebies presenter Mister Maker comes to town today with two shows at the Assembly Hall at 1.30pm and 4pm. Children love his funky take on arts and crafts and his first series of live, interactive shows Mister Maker & The Shapes Live is proving to be a great success with audiences!

Tickets cost £13.50 (adult) and £10 (child).

The West Kent Garden & Leisure Show is on today and tomorrow at Tonbridge Angels Football Club. As well as inspiring horticultural buys there will also be stalls selling hand crafted jewellery, homemade soaps and delicious conserves. Children will love the birds of prey demonstrations, face painting and the fun inflatables also on offer. Tickets cost £3 per adult and under 16s go free. Proceeds go to CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). For more information visit www.tonbridgeangelsonline.co.uk The Royal Tunbridge Wells Orpheus Male Choir performs at Trinity this evening at 7.30pm. Expect rousing choral hymns, classic blues and moving spiritual songs plus guest performances by the Bennett Memorial School Music Academy. >> SUNDAY Children will have the opportunity to Meet Peppa Pig today at the Spa Valley Railway. Just chug along to the Tunbridge Wells West train station anytime from 10am, board one of the trains running throughout the day and catch Peppa Pig and friends en route as you journey through the beautiful Wealden countryside. Children’s tickets cost £4.50 and £9 for adults.

For further information visit www.spavalleyrailway. co.uk The Oast Theatre in Tonbridge continues its run of Diane Samuel’s Kindertransport until Saturday May 21. It is the story of nine-year-old Eva, a Jew, who is sent from Germany to England by her mother in order to escape the imminent holocaust. She changes her identity but years later, when her daughter discovers some old letters and a German children’s book, Eva is forced to confront the truth.

More information at www.oasttheatre.com >> MONDAY At 5pm this evening the rangers at Grosvenor and Hilbert Park will host a guided walk and talk on wildflowers. The event will give people the opportunity to learn about lots of different varieties and where to spot them in the park’s extensive grounds. For further information visit www.fogh. org.uk From 8pm the Tonbridge Folk Club meets at the Foresters Arms for an evening of traditional music and song. Tonight’s gathering features the popular Where’s Spot Band from Essex. For more details visit www. tonbridgefolkclub.org

Down Memory Lane exhibition at The Old Fire Station in Tonbridge. On show is a variety of vintage fire service artefacts including equipment and photographs. There will also be a café with proceeds going to dementia support charities.

The Night Manager’s Tom Hiddleston stars in the film adaptation of JG Ballard’s classic novel High Rise at Trinity this evening. In this sci-fi celluloid thriller Hiddleston’s character becomes involved with the lives of a group of people living in an isolated community at the top of a luxurious block of apartments. Expect dark drama and dangerous plot twists.

Kindertransport

PICK OF THE WEEK The Decorative Living Fair

(May 13 and 14) at Eridge Park near Tunbridge Wells. The event, which is sponsored by the Times and So magazine, is a very popular one which draws visitors from far and wide thanks to its wealth of impressive exhibitors.

Interiors fans will be in heaven as they browse the 60-plus stalls selling unique, vintage and handmade creations that will enhance your home. For further information and ticket details visit www.decorativelivingfair.co.uk ALL THE FUN OF THE FAIR Discover some vintage gems

LIST YOUR EVENT… If you’d like to see your event featured in our What’s On pages you can email the details to info@ timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or post to The Times 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NU Event’s name Date and time Ticket cost Contact information

>> TUESDAY Today is the last chance to catch the

WHAT’S ON 

Big Boy Bloater

A ROUND-UP OF THIS WEEK’S MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Paul Dunton

The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… www.paulduntonandguests.com

The Bay Rays

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM Doors 7.30pm, entry price variable, event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk WEDNESDAY Benjamin Francis Leftwich THURSDAY Raised By Raptors, Everest (UK), Escucha, Operation Kino SATURDAY Big Boy Bloater & The LiMiTs THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7, websites www.pdag.co.uk + www.thegreylady.co.uk WEDNESDAY Joe Ackerley, Josie Lee, Annie Chew, Fred Clark FRIDAY Quinto SATURDAY Over The Edge SUNDAY Hannah Coles, Riverhead, Jono Harrison TUESDAY Martin Stenning, The Good Ship Band, Richard Sanford and Charlotte Brereton, Dull Knife WEDNESDAY Amber Anderton, James Lattimer, Nick Stephens, Annie Lees JAZZ ON THE PANTILES 8pm - 10pm live music on The Bandstand, free to attend, donations welcomed THURSDAY Sue Rivers Trio

The Bedford are staging Bubsfest, a wonderful free mini fest this Saturday with music from 1pm til late featuring a host of great local acts all performing in memory of James Hubbard and raising money for the Epilepsy Society.

Big Boy Bloater & The Limits play at The Forum on Saturday. Big Boy Bloater has proven himself to be one of the finest guitarists and performers of his generation and has drawn praise from his contemporaries for his powerful voice and dynamic and instantly recognisable guitar style. Luminaries such as Imelda May has confessed to being a ‘massive fan’ and Jools Holland has declared him ‘one of the great bluesmen of our time.’

THE VELO HOUSE 5 St John’s Road WEDNESDAY Velo House Music Club: Jim Cregan and Ben Mills For tickets and show times visit www.thevelohouse.com or contact direct on 01892 554 500 shop@thevelohouse.com

FRIDAY Blues with Bottle Club Roger Hubbard & Richard Studholme MONDAY TWUNT Ukulele Jam Session WEDNESDAY Sonny’s Jazz Funk Giants THE TRINITY THEATRE Church Road Show times & ticket prices vary, visit www.trinitytheatre.net for more details SATURDAY RTW Orpheus Male Voice Choir

Live music THE FINE weather is finally here, so make sure you venture out and support some wonderful live music.

For acoustic/singer-songwriter fans, the brilliant singer-songwriter Benjamin Francis Leftwich is at The Forum this Wednesday. The supremely talented local acts Josie Lee, Annie Chew and Joe Ackerley are all at The Grey Lady Music Lounge too.

If you have that Friday feeling and fancy a boogie, you can choose from three superb options with the Latin grooves of Quinto at The Grey Lady Music Lounge. For more pop/rock sounds there is Kolo at No.9 Smokehouse or Total Recall at Cassidy’s.

Saturday is also a fantastic night across the town with The Bay Rays single launch party at The Sussex Arms. They are fast emerging as one of the best alternative and original bands to look out for in 2016. Entry is free and they are definitely going places so don’t miss them!

101

1pm – Matt Bridle 2pm – Acoustic Atlas 3pm – Karl Barton 4pm – Sean Fennessey 5pm – Ash Evans 6pm – All The Above 6.30pm – Lisa Skinner / Tim Hubbard 7pm – Flawless Carbon 8pm – Badflys 9pm – Dan Clews 10pm – Cyrano 11pm – Eurovision Party!

NO.9 SMOKEHOUSE 9 Nevill Street Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late FRIDAY Kolo THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Crescent Road Show times & ticket prices vary, visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk for more details FRIDAY Russell Watson THE CROSS KEYS St Johns Road Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm, website www.crosskeystw.co.uk WEDNESDAY Sonny’s Jazz, Charles Alexander & Andy Robinson

CASSIDY’S SPORTS BAR Castle Street Open all day, free entry, music from 9pm till late FRIDAY Total Recall SCALLYWAG 45 Mount Ephraim Open all day, music from 7.30pm, entry charge for music may apply more information at www.scallywagcafe.co.uk FRIDAY Naked Jazz Jam WEDNESDAY Cabaret Open Mic Night THE ROYAL OAK Prospect Road Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm onwards SATURDAY Stone Cold Sober MONDAY Open Mic/Jam Session THE BEAU NASH INN Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late SATURDAY Kharma and the Devil THE PUNCH & JUDY 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm TUESDAY Missouri Gutts

THE SUSSEX ARMS Nr The Pantiles SATURDAY The Bay Rays (Single launch party, free entry) THE BEDFORD PUB 2 High street Open all day, free entry SATURDAY Bubsfest Music from 1pm to 11.30

Wednesday 11th May 2016

102 � THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Kent Barker Country matters

Italian moves leave tennis group bereft

I

T WAS a poignant little gathering at the Woodcock following our tennis last Friday.

Usually, after a couple of pints, the noise level rises along with the banter. You have to have a fairly thick skin – or at least a good ability to laugh at yourself – to be part of our group.

Mike usually gets it first: “Gor, we’ve only been here five minutes and you’ve started on me already,” he complains. It’s usually something to do with his habit of texting us at 2am with a definitive response to a question we’d been debating. Some time back I dubbed him ‘Mikeopedia’ for his omniscient knowledge of obscure facts. The trouble is there is no wi-fi in the pub so if he can’t immediately answer a question he has to go home to look it up. In which case, you’d have thought, we might get the text while we were still up. But Mike claims that he only remembers the discussion as he’s lying awake in the small hours and is certain we’d all want to know the answer then and there.

Then we have two utterly obsessive Bob Dylan fans who will brook no criticism of their hero.

Others among us, remembering how he mumbled

Wednesday 11th May 2016

his way through a truly awful set at the Hop Farm a few years back, are not convinced and lose no opportunity to remind them of some Dylan ‘turkeys’ – like the Grateful Dead or the Christmas Carol albums he performed on. Several of the group (our pub group that is, not the Dead – though sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference) made the cardinal error of allowing someone to record a jam session they did on a mobile phone.

So appallingly out of tune and time were their

‘He suddenly announced that he was moving to Italy’ efforts that it’s gone down in history as the Great Dylan Massacre – so that’s always a good one to bring up if under sustained attack. I’m generally joshed for my long hair and my politics – in fact my almost total inability to put the 1960s behind me. Clive, our resident solicitor and flamenco guitarist, is an easy target – especially after I went public with his habit of drinking Bacardis and Coke while the ‘real’ men quaffed real ale.

And then there’s Andy. Gosh, where do you start with Andy. He was also in on the Great Dylan Massacre, but to hear his version you’d think he was the only one playing in tune.

Perhaps the kindest way of putting it would be that there seems to be a perennial gap between Andy’s version of events and anyone else’s. He’s an acoustic engineer and a very generous person, forever offering to lend equipment or sort out hi-fi or PA problems. For instance for my 50th birthday party I wanted a good sound system in the marquee. “No problem,” said Andy, “I’ve got all the kit. Just leave it to me.” As the date grew closer and emails and texts went unanswered I became concerned. Eventually it was clear that, for reasons completely out of his control you understand, this ‘kit’ had been either stolen or borrowed and not returned, was being repaired or had perished in a fire. But he did have a first-class professional CD player and if I hired a PA he’d come and set it up. So on the afternoon of the party all was ready – except the PA. And of Andy there was no sign. Which, it must be said, was not that unusual. Eventually, with the guests milling around wanting a bop, he appeared with RETURN OF SERVICE Andy says he will pop back for a game once a month

an elderly and decidedly battered DVD player under his arm. “Far better quality than a dedicated CD player,” he asserted, and went in search of some leads.

Dear Andy. We’ll miss him. He suddenly announced that he was moving to Italy. “Yeah yeah,” we scoffed, another Andy fantasy. But blow us all down, he DID actually buy a house, and he DID actually sell his place in Tunbridge Wells and he HAS actually moved. So the Friday night gathering was to say farewell. No one can quite remember when Andy and Sylvie first appeared in our village – but it must have been in the late 1980s or early 1990s. He quickly joined the tennis club (he was my doubles partner until he unceremoniously dumped me for Mike after one season – I still bear a grudge) and the Friday evening sessions were instituted.

So for probably a quarter of a century we’ve been meeting every week. And even when Andy moved to Tunbridge Wells he still came back to play. He swears he’ll pop back from Italy for a game once a month or so. But you always did have to take anything he says with a substantial pinch of salt.

A Summertime offer

you Will not want to miss out on Call Thy Will Be Done during June, July or August and you will be able to arrange: A SINGLE OR PAIR OF WILLS to protect your partner and your children for just £99 + VAT (£ 118.80) usual price (£222 inc) ALL WILL BASED TRUSTS to help prevent your home being sold to pay for your care and protect your children for just £99+VAT (£118.80) usual price (£479 inc)

A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY for Health & Welfare or Property & Finance for just £99 + VAT (£ 118.80) usual price (£359 inc) And all severance of tenancy and conveyancing work during summer will be provided FREE OF CHARGE

Call us now on:

TONBRIDGE:

01732 605411 TUNBRIDGE WELLS:

01892 278171 "It's not what you did arrange during your life that,your loved ones will regret - it's what you id no "

www.thywill.co.uk

f ~ ,,